Northern District of Oklahoma

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the April Federal Grand Jury 2023-B Indictments.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Edy Adonay Ayala-Carbajal. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Ayala-Carbajal, 36, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Sep. 2011, at or near Dallas, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ammon Brisolara is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-122

Dylan Lee Boyd. Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force and Threat in Indian Country; Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country; Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country; Commission of Felony Sex Offense Involving a Minor by a Registered Sex Offender. Boyd, 27, of Quapaw and a member of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma, is charged with knowingly engaging in a sexual act by force and threat with a minor victim under 16 years old in Nov. 2020.  He allegedly knowingly engaged in sexual abuse and abusive sexual contact with the minor victim. Boyd is further charged with committing a felony offense with a minor while being required to register as a sex offender. The Quapaw Nation Marshals Service is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey P. Todd is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-114

Darrius Malik Brown. Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number; Receipt of a Firearm While Under Indictment for a Felony; Distribution of Fentanyl; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime (superseding). Brown, 25, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a handgun with the serial number removed. He allegedly possessed a firearm while he was under indictment. Brown knowingly distributed fentanyl and possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Elmore is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-083

Chaz Chinsethagid. Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Chinsethagid, 33, of Jenks, is charged with attempting to persuade, induce, and entice, an individual whom he believed had not attained the age of 18 years, to engage in sexual activity. He is further charged with knowingly receiving, possessing, and distributing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Chinsethagid allegedly possessed visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations, Tulsa Police Department, Collinsville Police Department, and Creek County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-123

Eric Enslow. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Obstructing, Delaying, and Affecting Commerce by Robbery; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Enslow, 35, transient, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition knowing he was previously convicted of felonies in Iowa. He allegedly affected interstate commerce by robbery and brandished a firearm during a crime of violence. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Brasher is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-124

Juan Jose Huerta; Miguel Angel Huerta; Carlos Pena-Villalba; Jose Fernando Flores Carillo; Roberto Carlos Valle. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Counts 2 & 8); Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute (Counts 3, 5 & 13); Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime (Counts 4, 6, 9, 11 & 14); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Counts 7 & 15); Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute (Count 10); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 12). Juan Huerta, 57, a Mexican National; Miguel Huerta, 27, of Broken Arrow; Pena-Villalba, 53, a Mexican National; Carillo, 24, a Mexican National; Valle, 45, a Mexican National are charged with conspiring to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine. Juan Huerta and Pena-Villalba are charged with allegedly possessing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Valle is further charged with knowingly possessing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine and more than 40 grams of fentanyl with intent to distribute. Juan Huerta and Miguel Huerta are further charged with knowingly possessing more than 40 grams of fentanyl with intent to distribute. Carillo allegedly also possessed fentanyl with intent to distribute. All are charged with possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking and with maintaining a residence to distribute drugs. The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tulsa Police Department, and the Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-118

Olegario Pinales Cobarrubias. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Cobarrubias, 42, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in May 2008, at or near Del Rio, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy M. Mackenzie is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-115

Edwin Orlando Rios-Mejia. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien; Tampering with Evidence. Rios-Mejia, 25, a Honduras national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Sep. 2019, at or near Houston, Texas. He is further charged with evidence tampering. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-116

Juan Daniel Rodriguez; Adrian Hernandez Barrios; Adolfo Jacobo; Jesus Ponce Alcaraz; Aureliano Rodriguez Hernandez; Felecia Martinez, Luis Martinez; Marco Antonio Monreal Lopez; Juan Luis Luna; Bulmaro Martinez; Cesar Barrera-Gonzalez; Jorge Mario Piedra Hernandez. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1); Drug Conspiracy (Count 2); Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime (Count 3); Distribution of Methamphetamine (Counts 4 through 6); Distribution of Methamphetamine (Count 7); Distribution of Methamphetamine (Count 8); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Counts 9 & 11); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Counts 10, 12 & 14); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 13); Distribution of Cocaine (Counts 15 & 16) (superseding). Rodriguez, 18, of Tulsa; Barrios, 28, of Tulsa and a Mexican national; Jacobo, 28, of Tulsa; Alcaraz, 30, a Mexican national; Aureliano Hernandez, 38, a Mexican national; Felecia Martinez, 39 of Tulsa and a member of the Potawatomi Nation; Luis Martinez, 37, a Mexican national; Lopez, 41, a Mexican National; Luna, 41, a Mexican National are charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine. Barrios, Jacobo, Alcaraz, Barrera-Gonzalez, 27, a Mexican national, Bulmaro Martinez, 38, a Mexican national, Jorge Hernandez, 38, a Mexican national are also charged with conspiring to distribute cocaine. Barrios is further charged with possessing a firearm while drug trafficking, and intentionally distributing methamphetamine and more than 50 grams of a mixture that contains methamphetamine. Rodriguez is charged with allegedly distributing more than 500 grams of a mixture that contains methamphetamine. Rodriguez, Aureliano Hernandez, and Felecia Martinez are further charged with maintaining a residence to distribute methamphetamine. Additionally, Felecia Martinez is charged with possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and Alcaraz is further charged with distributing cocaine. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam D. McConney is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-078

Gerson Armando Romero Salazar. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Salazar, 22, an El Salvador national, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition knowing he was unlawfully in the United States. The Homeland Security Investigations and Broken Arrow Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shakema M. Onias is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-125

Richard Joseph Schweiger. Felon in Possession of a Firearm (Count 1); Drug Conspiracy (Count 2); Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury (Counts 3 & 6); Distribution of Heroin Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury (Count 4); Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death; Prior Conviction Allegation for a Felony Drug Offense (Count 5) (superseding). Schweiger, 48, of Sapulpa, is charged with possessing a firearm knowing he was previously convicted of felonies in Louisiana and Oklahoma. He is charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl since January 2022. It is alleged that during that time, Schweiger distributed fentanyl or heroin to at least three individuals, which resulted in serious bodily harm. He is further charged with knowingly distributing fentanyl, which resulted in the death of Barbara Ann Martin. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Creek County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Flesher is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-009

Brian Thomas Tate. Leaving the Scene of a Personal Injury Accident in Indian Country. Tate, 40, of Oilton and a member of the Pueblo of Laguna, is charged with failing to stay at the scene of an accident and rendering reasonable assistance to those injured in the accident. The FBI, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and Creek County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Ihler is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-129

Stanley Wayne Zackery, Jr. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Suffocating and Attempting to Strangle and Suffocate in Indian Country; Robbery in Indian Country;  Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country; Domestic Assault in Indian Country by a Habitual Offender. Zackery, 41, of Weleetka and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with assaulting a dating partner by strangling and suffocating the victim. He is accused of taking property of value from the victim by force and violence. Zackery is charged with assaulting the victim which resulted in serious bodily injury. Additionally, he is further charged with domestic assault after receiving felony convictions for domestic assault in Okfuskee District Court and the Eastern District of Oklahoma Federal Court. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Weems is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-117

TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Scotty Wayne Harjo, 40, of Tulsa, for 27 counts of Second Degree Burglary in Indian Country. Judge Hill ordered Harjo to serve 72 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.

“Scotty Harjo targeted small businesses such as bakeries, breweries, and barber shops,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “The Tulsa Police Department (TPD) spent countless hours investigating Harjo’s burglary spree. I want to thank them for their hard work and assisting federal prosecutors in securing this sentence.”

According to court documents, Harjo was released from federal prison in August of 2021 after serving 60 months for drug conspiracy. Shortly after his release, Harjo broke into 27 different businesses throughout Tulsa in 2022. Harjo targeted small businesses. Harjo told Tulsa Police Officers that “he did not really care because “we” (TPD) can’t do anything about it…”

Harjo is a citizen of the Seminole Nation of Oklahoma and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey prosecuted the case.

TULSA, Okla. – Friday, Paul Anthony Thompson, 36, was sentenced for Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country and Assault of an Intimate Dating Partner by Strangling and Suffocating, and Attempting to Strangle and Suffocate in Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Thompson to 216 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to court documents, in March of 2023, Thompson tried to kill his spouse by strangling her with three different belts, causing her to lose consciousness. During the assault, he beat the victim with a belt, then strangled her with the belt until it broke. He then got another belt, looped it around her neck and dragged her around “like a dog.” When that belt broke, Thompson got a third belt. When she attempted to escape, he blocked her from leaving and said, “Till death do us part.”

Records reflect in December of 2018, Thompson assaulted a previous girlfriend by placing her in a chokehold and strangling her. The chokehold prevented her from breathing.  Thompson prevented the victim from leaving with a child who was also present during the attack.

Thompson is a citizen of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. Thompson will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The FBI and Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stacey Todd, Leah Paisner, and Steven Briden prosecuted the case.

TULSA, Okla. – A former South Coffeyville middle school teacher was sentenced today for two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country and Coercion and Enticement of a Minor in Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Harold Steven Moore, 41, of Kansas City, to 180 months imprisonment, followed by 12 years of supervised release. Upon his release, Moore will also be required to register as a sex offender.

“Children trust their teachers and Harold Moore betrayed that trust,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “No child should ever have to question the motives of an adult they interact with at school. I commend the courageous victims that came forward.”

According to court documents, Moore was a teacher and coach at a South Coffeyville middle school. He had sexual relationships with two separate minor children beginning in 2006 and continuing through 2007. Both minor children were under the age of 16 years old and students at the middle school. Moore further admitted to enticing a third minor to engage in sexual activities while he was her coach. Moore made inappropriate comments of a sexual nature and engaged in improper touching.  

Moore is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and he will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The FBI, Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, and Montgomery County Sheriff's Office in Kansas investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Dunn prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.

TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge John D. Russell sentenced Brett Matthew Chamberlain, 41, for seven counts of Bank Fraud, five counts of Aggravated Identity Theft, two counts of Theft in Indian Country, being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence in Indian Country. Chamberlain was sentenced to 240 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Judge Russell further ordered Chamberlain to pay $10,142.20 in restitution.

According to court documents, between August 2022 through December 2022, Chamberlain broke into more than 30 vehicles and stole items of value. He would make unauthorized purchases using the vehicle owners’ property, such as credit cards, bank cards, bank checks, and personal identification. Using the victims’ funds and personal identifying information, Chamberlain went on shopping sprees at Home Depot and Target, refueled his vehicle, and reloaded minutes on his prepaid cellphone. Several victims had property stolen valued at more than $1,000, including one firearm.

In December 2022, the Tulsa Police Department pulled over a vehicle flagged in the Flock camera system as a suspect vehicle in multiple burglaries. Chamberlain was driving the vehicle and a stolen firearm was found inside. Chamberlain was not allowed to possess a firearm after being convicted of more than 22 felonies in Oklahoma.

Additionally, Chamberlain further admitted to firing at least two shots in the direction of a victim while they were inside their car.  He is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Anderson prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about PSN, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

TULSA, Okla. – A Universal Aryan Brotherhood gang member was sentenced today for First Degree Murder in Indian Country and Carrying, Using, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced, Bennie Frank Withrow, IV, 38, of Tulsa, to life plus 120 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.

In December 2021, Dustin Tucker and his girlfriend bought methamphetamine from a drug dealer affiliated with the Universal Aryan Brotherhood (UAB) gang. After leaving the drug dealer's house, they were stopped by Tulsa Police officers. During the traffic stop, officers found methamphetamine on Dustin and a firearm in the car. While detained, Dustin told officers where he bought the drugs. The police then released Dustin and the girlfriend.

Dustin’s girlfriend attempted to warn the drug dealer, but officers were already at the drug house serving a search warrant. The girlfriend then called UAB gang member Bennie Withrow and told him about what happened.

Later that night, Dustin made plans to go to a casino with Withrow and a third friend. On the way, Withrow suggested they pull over to use drugs first. After they got out of the car, Withrow shot Dustin numerous times, leaving him to die in a field.  Dustin’s body was found several days later in this field in Osage County. Withrow bragged to at least two people about killing Dustin.

A federal jury found Withrow guilty in July 2023 for the retaliation killing of Dustin Tucker.

Dustin was a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. Withrow will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, Osage County Sheriff’s Office, and Osage Nation Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Nasar and Dennis Fries prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about PSN, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the April Federal Grand Jury 2024-A Indictments.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Jason Wayne Case. Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography. Case, 43, of Miami, is charged with receiving and distributing images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. He is further charged with possessing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children under 12 years old. The FBI and Miami Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen J. Flynn and Valeria Luster are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-102

Kyle Jackson Fugate. Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor. Fugate, 26, of Owasso and a member of the Osage Nation, is charged with knowingly attempting to persuade a minor child to engage in sexual activity in Mar. 2024. The Homeland Security Investigations and Rogers County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stacey P. Todd is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-101

O'Savion Goudeau. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Goudeau, 25, of Tulsa and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition after previously being convicted of felonies in Wagoner and Tulsa County District Courts. The Homeland Security Investigations, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Dowdell is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-100

Edwin Francisco Hernandez Guerrero. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1); Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute (Count 2); Distribution of Methamphetamine (Counts 3 & 4); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Count 5). Guerrero, 25, a Mexican national, is charged with conspiring to distribute heroin and methamphetamine from Nov. 2023 through Mar. 2024. He allegedly possessed heroin with intent to distribute and intentionally distributed methamphetamine. He is further charged with maintaining a residence to distribute heroin and methamphetamine. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy M. Mackenzie is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-106

John Carpenter Lucas. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Lucas, 55, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition after previously being convicted of felonies in North Carolina and Georgia. He is further charged with allegedly possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen H. Flynn and Kenneth Elmore are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-108

Brandon Earl Presley. Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country (Counts 1 & 6); Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country (Counts 2 & 3); Production of Child Pornography (Count 4); Possession of Child Pornography (Count 5). Presley, 29, of Tulsa and a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with knowingly engaging in a sexual act with two different minors under 16 years old. He allegedly had abusive sexual contact with one of those minor victims and a third minor victim under 16 years old. Presley also used a third minor victim to engage in sexually explicit conduct with the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. He is further charged with possessing a visual image depicting the sexual abuse of the child. The Homeland Security Investigations, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Department, and Bixby Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kate Brandon and Valeria Luster are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-107

Jerico Lee Reddell. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (Count 1); Kidnapping in Indian Country (Counts 2, 5 & 8); Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country (Counts 3, 6 & 9); Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (Count 4 & 7). Reddell, 41, of Bartlesville and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition after previously being convicted of felonies in Washington and Oklahoma County District Courts. He allegedly kidnapped two different victims, intentionally assaulted them with a dangerous weapon, and used a firearm in a crime of violence. The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, and Bartlesville Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michele W. Hulgaard and Stacey Todd are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-105

Kory Bryan Tuell; Lexus Nicole Fenix. First Degree Murder in Indian Country; Accessory After the Fact. Tuell, 30, of Tulsa and a member of the Cherokee Nation Tribe, is charged with deliberately killing Mitchell Jefferson in Mar. 2024. Fenix, 19, of Tulsa and a member of the Absentee Shawnee Tribe, is charged with knowing Tuell committed murder and helping him avoid being arrested. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John E. Brasher and Stephen Flynn are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-099

TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson announced the launch of Operation Clean Sweep II. This operation is aimed at holding accountable child predators throughout the Northern District of Oklahoma.

Operation Clean Sweep II is partnered with the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation and Trafficking Task Force (TACETT) created by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). More than 40 federal, state, and tribal law enforcement committed resources to help prevent, identify, investigate and ultimately prosecute child exploitation.

“Statistics show that crimes against children are growing at a large rate across the country,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “The Northern District of Oklahoma will remain steadfast in our battle against child predators and those who exploit children.”

“Operations of this magnitude are necessary to identify and prosecute those who exploit children in our community,” said Robert Melton, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, HSI Dallas – Oklahoma and Texas Panhandle Division. “HSI is committed to working with federal, state, and tribal partners to ensure those who victimize children are held accountable for their actions.”

The operation’s first 11 defendants were arrested and charged with:  

• Timothy Don Major, Jr., 34 of Tulsa is charged with Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Receipt of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country.
• Nicholas Kyle Dietzel, 43, of Tulsa is charged with Attempted Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age; Attempted Interstate Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct with a Person Under 18 Years of Age; Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Attempted Distribution of Child Pornography to a Minor; Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country.
• Sequoyah Hinzo, 29, of Jay, a United Keetoowah Band of Cherokee Indians Tribe member, is charged with Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country (Counts 1 and 2); Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor by Force and Threat in Indian Country (Count 3); Coercion and Enticement of a Minor (Count 4); Receipt and Distribution of Child Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country (Count 5) Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country (Count 6).
• Lorenzo Ricky Jones, 34, of Tulsa, is charged with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
• Kevin Lee Forney, 63, of Skiatook, is charged with Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography
• Justin Lee Wheeler, 41, of Terlton, and member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor
• Tallo Dominic Williams, 48, of Bristow, is charged with Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
• Bryon Alan Lee, 31, of Sapulpa and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with Production of Child Pornography; Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country; Commission of Felony Sex Offense Involving a Minor by a Registered Sex Offender.
• Brandon Earl Presley, 29, of Bixby, is charged with Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country; Production of Child Pornography; Possession of and Access with Intent to View Child Pornography
• Jason Wayne Case, 43, of Miami, is charged with Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of and Access with Intent to View Child Pornography
• Kyle Jackson Fugate, 26 of Bixby, is charged with Attempted Coercion or Enticement of a Minor

The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s (NCMEC) CyberTipline is the nation’s centralized reporting system for the online exploitation of children. Since its inception in 1998, the NCMEC’s CyberTipline has received more than 144 million reports.

Statistics from 2023 provided by NCMEC show the following:

• The CyberTipline received more than 36.2 million reports which is a dramatic increase from 2019 when they received 16 million reports.
• The largest category reported in 2023 is related to suspected child sexual abuse material.
• An increase of 300% in online enticement reports between 2021 – 2023. This increase was due to the trend of financial sextortion, where offenders aggressively blackmail children for financial gain.
• More than 4,700 reports of child sexual abuse material were generated using GAI (AI) technology

To combat the dramatic increase of exploitation of children, in December 2022, NCMEC launched a groundbreaking platform, Take It Down. This free and anonymous service allows users to submit a report online. This report can help remove online nude, partially nude, or sexually explicit photos and videos that depict a child under 18 years old. For example, if a child sent a picture to someone and now that person is threatening to post it online. Whether the photo is posted or not, Take It Down helps remove it from places it might appear.

Operation Clean Sweep II is led by Deputy Criminal Chief Christopher J. Nassar and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert. The TACETT incorporates personnel from HSI Tulsa, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Tulsa Police Department, Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, Rogers County Sheriff’s Office, LeFlore County District Attorney’s Office, Muskogee Police Department,  Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office, Pryor Creek Police Department, Skiatook Police Department, Broken Arrow Police Department, Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office, Collinsville Police Department, Owasso Police Department, Mayes County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, Checotah Police Department, Sapulpa Police Department, Bristow Police Department, Glenpool Police Department, Tahlequah Police Department, Coweta Police Department, Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police Department, Osage County Sheriff’s Office, McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Each case listed above is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. The U.S. Attorneys' Offices and Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page. For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page.

If you or someone you know is a victim of child exploitation confidential help is available. Resources and contact information for child exploitation are available through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. The CyberTipline can be found here.

An indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Tulsa, Oklahoma – Today, U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Malcolm Andre Jones, 32, of Broken Arrow, to 27 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Wire Fraud. Judge Frizzell further ordered Jones to pay $20,665 in restitution.

According to the plea agreement, Jones admitted to submitting a false and fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan application. Jones's application to the Small Business Association stated that he owned a landscaping business and that all loan proceeds would be used for that business. However, Jones did not own a landscaping business. He admitted to using the funds to pay bills and purchase a couch and an automobile. Jones used the funds and then had them forgiven.

After pleading guilty and while being on pretrial bond, Jones lied to probation officers, the government, and his attorney about significant matters during the presentence investigation. Jones submitted a forged college diploma, claiming he received a master’s degree in college. He stated that he was undergoing chemotherapy for kidney cancer and had more than $500k in debt. Jones went as far as lying about serving in the military. In court filings, Jones described deployments in detail and claimed he suffered from PTSD because a friend supposedly died in front of him. He presented fake military paperwork claiming he had been honorably discharged and received a Medal of Honor and Purple Heart, despite not having served in the military at all.

Jones received an enhanced sentence for obstruction of justice.

Jones was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, U.S. Small Business Administration, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, and Department of Defense – Defense Criminal Investigative Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ammon Brisolara and Kristen Harrington prosecuted the case.

On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Justice Department in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The task force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.

Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866‑720‑5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.

Today, U.S. District Judge J. Phillip Calabrese sentenced Martin Andrew Breshears, 56, Tulsa to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release for Assault with Intent to Commit Murder in Indian Country.

In June 2022, Breshears assaulted the wheelchair-confined victim on two separate occasions. The first assault was with a brick. During the second assault, Breshears kicked in the victim’s door and repeatedly hit him with a lead pipe. Then Breshears doused the house and victim with lighter fluid and lit the porch on fire. Officers detained Brehsears near the fire and he admitted to assaulting the victim. A witness saw the assault, called 911, and put out the fire saving the victim.

Breshears is a citizen of Muscogee (Creek) Nation. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ammon Brisolara prosecuted the case.

TULSA, Okla. – Today, U.S. District Judge Terence C. Kern sentenced Phillip Barry Albert, 64, of Tulsa, to 30 months imprisonment, followed by 1 year of supervised release, for Tax Evasion. Judge Kern further ordered Albert to pay more than $3.6 million in restitution.

According to court documents, from 2004 through 2021, Phillip Barry Albert was the President of Pelco Structural (Pelco) in Claremore, Oklahoma. In 2014, Albert directed the company controller, Don Eagleton, to have the company’s payroll service provider issue “reimbursements” to Albert from Pelco, for undocumented expenses. He then had the “reimbursements” coded in the company’s financial documents in such a way that they would not appear as taxable income. He then willfully failed to pay taxes on the “reimbursement” payments. Prosecutors pointed out that Albert was previously employed as a tax preparer. Given Albert’s intelligence and the overall sophistication of the scheme, he knew the requests for “reimbursements” did not relate to any legitimate business expense.

From 2014 through 2019, Albert’s unreported income was $2,615,750. This left Albert owing more than $1 million in taxes. Because of Albert’s theft and related acts of embezzlement during his time at the company, Pelco calculates their actual total loss was more than $10 million, without taking into account the loss of business opportunities.

In a separate federal case, Don Eagleton pleaded guilty to knowingly concealing Albert’s fraudulent activity from authorities. He was sentenced to three years of supervised release and ordered to pay $1,543,000 in restitution.

Albert was permitted to remain on bond and ordered to voluntarily surrender on a specific date, to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The IRS Criminal Investigation and FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Duncombe and Trial Attorney Meredith M. Havekost of the Justice Department’s Tax Division prosecuted the case.

Today, U.S. District Judge J. Phillip Calabrese sentenced Josiah Gammill, 21, to 604 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Murder in the Second Degree.

According to court documents, in March 2021, Gammill was driving with Hunter Majors. They pulled off the side of a back road to use the restroom. Gammill retrieved a shotgun from the trunk of the car, shot Hunter twice, and left him to die. Gammill drove to a park and attempted to dispose of the shotgun and burn his clothes. Officers found Gammill hiding out at a hotel. After a search of Gammill’s phone, officers found a message bragging that he “wiped Hunter off the face of the earth.”

Gamill is a citizen of the Quapaw Nation and the victim was a citizen of the Choctaw Nation. Gamill will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The FBI, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, Craig County Sheriff’s Office, and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Roberts and Niko Boulieris prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about PSN, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the March Federal Grand Jury 2023-B Indictments.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Darrius Malik Brown. Possession of a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial Number; Receipt of a Firearm While Under Indictment for a Felony. Brown, 25, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a handgun with the serial number removed. Brown allegedly possessed a firearm while he was under indictment. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Elmore is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-083

Lee Scott Holt; Jennifer Charisa Harrington. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (Counts 1 and 2); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 3); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Count 4); Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crimes; Prior Conviction Allegation for a Serious Drug Felony (Count 5) (superseding). Holt, 59, and Harrington, 48, of Collinsville, are charged with possessing a firearm knowing they’d been convicted of felonies in various states. They both allegedly possessed methamphetamine while maintaining a residence for distribution of drugs. They are further charged with possessing a firearm while drug trafficking. Holt is a Cherokee Nation member.  Homeland Security Investigations, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, and the Cherokee Nation Marshals are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mike Flesher and Justin Bish are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-050

Jonathan Eliezer Miranda Juarez. Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity; Coercion and Enticement of a Minor (superseding). Juarez, 29, of Commerce, is charged with transporting a minor victim with intent to engage in sexual activity Aug. 2023. He is further charged with knowingly persuading and coercing a minor victim from Aug. 2020 through Aug. 2023. The Homeland Security Investigations, Indiana Delphi Police Department, Commerce Police Department, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-347

Adam Joseph King. Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 in Indian Country (Counts 1 & 3); Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor Under 12 in Indian Country (Counts 2 & 4) King, 35, of Pryor and a member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians, is charged with knowingly engaging in a sexual act with a minor victim under 12 years old. He is further charged with allegedly causing and engaging in abusive sexual contact with the same victim. The FBI and Catoosa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chantelle Dial and Valeria Luster are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-081

Bryon Alan Lee. Production of Child Pornography; Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country; Commission of Felony Sex Offense Involving a Minor by a Registered Sex Offender. Lee, 31, of Sapulpa and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with using a victim under 12 years old to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct. He is further charged with receiving, distributing, and possessing images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Lee allegedly committed a felony offense involving a minor child while being required to register as a sex offender. The Homeland Security Investigations Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse, and Sapulpa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-084

Cameron Lynn. First Degree Murder in Indian Country; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. Lynn, 33, of Tulsa and a member of the Choctaw Nation, is charged with willfully and deliberately killing Alcides Monroig in Feb. 2024. Lynn allegedly used a dangerous weapon to do bodily harm to a separate victim. He is further charged with using a firearm in a crime of violence which resulted in serious bodily injury. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore and Stephen Flynn are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-076

Hong Thoa Thi Nguyen; Tait Hunter Jaco; Tam Duc Nguyen; Trinh Nguyen. Drug Conspiracy; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute (superseding). Hong Nguyen, 44, Jaco, 32, Tam Nguyen, 56, and Trinh Nguyen, 36, of Tulsa are charged with conspiring to distribute cocaine in Nov. 2023. Hong Nguyen and Jaco were also charged for maintaining a residence for drug distribution. Jaco was further charged for possessing cocaine with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-407

Dustin Colby Phillips. Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. Phillips, 37, of Vinita and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with assaulting a victim that resulted in serious bodily injury. The FBI and Vinita Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Flynn is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-077

Eron Torres-Gaytan; Donald Edward Beckett; John Harden Tucker. Drug Conspiracy (Count 1); Manufacturing of Methamphetamine (Count 2); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Counts 3 and 4); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Count 5); Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien (Count 6). Torres-Gaytan, 27, a Mexican national; Beckett, 30, of Mounds; Tucker, 54, of Tulsa, is charged with conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in Feb. 2024. Torres-Gaytan allegedly manufactured and possessed more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Beckett is further charged with possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Torres-Gaytan and Tucker are charged with allegedly maintaining a residence to distribute methamphetamine. Additionally, Torres-Gaytan is charged with being an alien residing in the United States after being removed in Sep. 2021. The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-079

Hank Sallee Williams. Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death; Distribution of Fentanyl to a Minor; Use of a Communication Facility in Committing, Causing, and Facilitating the Commission of a Drug Trafficking Felony. Williams, 23, of Tulsa, is charged with knowingly distributing fentanyl, which resulted in the death of Xander Tewis. Williams allegedly distributed fentanyl to someone under 21 years old and used a telephone for communication while drug trafficking. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-080

Today, U.S. District Judge Sara E. Hill sentenced Mikaili Diwani Cohn, 26, to 180 months of imprisonment, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release for Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography; and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Upon his release, Cohn will be required to abide by sex offender registration requirements.

In Cohn’s first federal case, he pleaded guilty in June 2017 to Possession of Child Pornography and was sentenced to 48 months imprisonment, followed by 20 years supervised release. After being released, Cohn registered his residence following the offender registration requirements. However, in April 2022, U.S. Probation officers observed Cohn living at a different address with his girlfriend and her child. When Cohn was arrested, officers recovered evidence that showed Cohn used a social media application to send and receive sexually explicit videos of minors.

Cohn will remain in custody pending transfer to U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The U.S. Probation Office, U.S. Marshals Service, and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang prosecuted the case.

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

Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Eric F. Melgren sentenced Johnny Lee Summers, 24, of Depew. Summers was convicted by a federal jury in March 2023 for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country; and Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country. Summers was sentenced to 340 months imprisonment, followed by 15 years of supervised release. Judge Melgren further ordered that Summers register as a sex offender upon his release.

During the trial, three victims testified against Summers explaining how he took advantage of them. From February 2021 through January 2022, Summers sought out and coerced one of the victims, who was 14 years old. Summers wanted to engage in sexual activity and sent her thousands of sexually inappropriate messages. He requested that she send him nude photos and eventually sexually abused her. 

Summers is a citizen of the Eastern Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma and will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, and Creek County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Valeria Luster and Steven Briden prosecuted the case.

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

Today, U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced David Olice Sitsler, III, for three counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. Sitsler, 36, was sentenced to 96 months, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Judge Frizzell further ordered Sitsler to pay $625 in restitution.

In February 2022, Sitsler was in an argument with his wife. She called a friend to pick her up. When she tried to leave, Sitsler shot at the car she was in, hitting one of the passengers.

Sitsler is a citizen of Cherokee Nation. He will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Mayes County Sheriff’s Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the March Federal Grand Jury 2024-A Indictments.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Fernando Gonzalez-Leyva. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Gonzalez-Leyva, 53, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Oct. 2017, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Attila Bogdan is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-065

Wesley Dale Pedro, Jr. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to an Intimate/Dating Partner in Indian Country; Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding (Misdemeanor). Pedro, 54, of Tulsa, and member of Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, is charged with intentionally assaulting a victim with a dangerous weapon and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence in Sep. 2021. He allegedly assaulted a victim whom he had an intimate relationship with on Sep. 29, 2021. He is further charged with assaulting the same victim on Sep. 30, 2021. The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, and Coweta Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Briden is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-066

Jacob Dean Rowell. Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a
Drug Trafficking Crime; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Possession of Drug Manufacturing Equipment. Rowell, 27, of Tulsa, is charged with knowingly possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. He allegedly maintained a residence for the distribution of fentanyl. Rowell is further charged with possessing a machine to manufacture controlled substances. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Tulsa Police Department, and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-069

Tallo Dominic Williams.  Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Williams, 48, of Bristow, is charged with knowingly failing to register as a sex offender from Aug. 2023 through the date of the Indictment. The U.S. Marshal Service is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-067

Today, U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Christian James Harrison, 21, of Tulsa to 300 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release for Second Degree Murder in Indian Country.

According to court documents, in December 2021, Tulsa Police Officers responded to a “shots fired” call. Upon arrival, officers found a juvenile victim with three gunshot wounds. Officers interviewed several witnesses. Each witness identified Harrison as the shooter. According to the witnesses, Harrison was arguing with the victim’s brother. As the argument escalated, Harrison pulled a gun from his waistband. Harrison shot approximately seven times toward the brother, missing him, and hitting the victim. The juvenile victim later succumbed to the injuries and died.

Harrison is a citizen of the Seminole Nation.  He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Briden prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

TULSA, Okla. – U.S. District Judge John D. Russell, sentenced Carlos Caraballo, 28, of Bellport, New York, to 324 months of imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervision for Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country and Production of Child Pornography. Upon his release, Caraballo will also be required to register as a sex offender.

According to court documents, in 2021, Caraballo met a 13-year-old minor victim in a chat room. After conversing with the child long-distance via computer and phone, Caraballo drove from New York to Oklahoma. While he was in Oklahoma, Caraballo engaged in sexual acts with the minor and took sexually explicit photos of the minor.

The minor is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. Caraballo will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Vani Singhal prosecuted the case.

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

TULSA, Okla.  – A former Nowata Middle School teacher was sentenced today for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor in Indian Country and Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Kenneth Colby Martinez, 26, Bartlesville, to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release. Upon his release, Martinez will also be required to register as a sex offender.

“Kenneth Martinez violated the trust of the Nowata community and took advantage of a student he was entrusted with,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “No child should ever need to question if school is a safe place. My office will continue to pursue those who prey on vulnerable children.”  

According to court documents, Martinez began communicating with a student at Nowata Middle School during the 2021-2022 school year. He started coercing and enticing the student through messaging applications. The messages eventually became sexual in nature. On several occasions, Martinez's abusive sexual contact happened in a classroom with the student. 

Martinez is not an Indian. The student is a citizen of the Cherokee Nation. The crimes occurred within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation. Martinez will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Nowata Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Valeria G. Luster and Aaron Jolly prosecuted the case.

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

TULSA, Okla. – U.S. District Judge R. Brooke Jackson sentenced Waylon Cody Johnson, 24, to 65 months imprisonment, followed by 2 years of supervised release for Obstructing, Delaying, and Affecting Commerce by Robbery. Judge Jackson further ordered Johnson to pay $277.09 in restitution.

According to court documents, on August 21, 2022, Johnson walked into a Subway store with a gun demanding the store employee to “give [him] all the money.” Johnson threatened to kill the employee if they attempted to contact the police and not comply with his demands. It was later determined the gun Johnson used in the robbery was a replica gun that looked like a pistol.

Johnson is a member of the Seneca-Cayuga Nation. He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Sapulpa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin G. Bish prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

TULSA, Okla. – In June 2023, a federal jury found White guilty on two counts of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor Under 12 years of Age in Indian Country and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country. 

Today, U.S. District Judge R. Brooke Jackson sentenced Ricky Leroy White, 33, to 135 months imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release. Upon release, White will be required to register as a sex offender.

“Ricky White repeatedly preyed upon two children who should’ve been able to trust him. Both victims were courageous and testified in federal court exposing the abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “My office will not slow down our relentless pursuit to hold accountable perpetrators of child sexual abuse.”

According to court documents, from June 2010 through June 2017, White sexually abused two children who lived with him. Prosecutors argued that White has shown no remorse for his actions and that he did not suffer from a solitary lapse in judgment. White was calculated and deliberate with his sexual abuse and would take advantage of the two children while they were sleeping.

White is a member of the Cherokee Nation. He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Mayes County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Nassar, Leah Paisner, and Ashley Robert prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the February Federal Grand Jury 2023-B Indictments.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Cesar Arvizo. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Arvizo, 44, of Burlington, Colorado, is charged with conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine in Feb. 2024. He is further charged with knowingly possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and Texas Department of Public Safety are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-059

Marco Dionte Atkins. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Atkins, 19, of Tulsa, a Muscogee (Creek) Nation member, is charged with intentionally assaulting the victim with a dangerous weapon in Nov. 2023. He is further charged with knowingly carrying and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Dowdell is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-051

Jason Nathaniel Daugherty. Involuntary Manslaughter in Indian Country. Daugherty, 38, of Broken Arrow, a Cherokee Nation member, is charged with involuntary manslaughter after driving left of center line under the influence of alcohol, killing Sherrie Tucker in Mar. 2023. The Tulsa Police Department is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Brandon is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-052

Juan Adolfo De Lira-Davila. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Lira-Davila, 31, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Oct. 2015, at or near Del Rio, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ammon Brisolara is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-061

Christopher Glenn Drake. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Felon in Possession of a Firearm; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Drake, 43, of Tulsa, is charged with conspiring to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine in Jan 2024. He allegedly possessed fentanyl and methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Drake possessed a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, knowing he was previously convicted of a felony in Wagoner County. He is further charged with maintaining a residence for distributing drugs.  The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-058

Sarah Elizabeth Neighbors; Roselinde Faith Serna; Kylie Raeanne Clarkson. Drug Conspiracy (Counts 1 and 2); Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute (Count 3); Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute (Count 4); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Count 5). Neighbors, 33, of Choteau, Serna, 29 and Clarkson, 35, of Tulsa, are charged with conspiring to distribute and knowingly possessing more than 400 grams of fentanyl with intent to distribute in Jan. 2024. Neighbors is further charged with intentionally possessing more than 500 grams of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and maintaining a residence for distribution of drugs in Jan. 2024. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-054

Jorge Luis Peres Ambriz. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Perez Ambriz, 32, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Sep. 2018, at or near El Paso, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ammon Brisolara is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-060

Greg Allen Reddout. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. Reddout, 44, of Tulsa, a Cherokee Nation member, is charged with intentionally assaulting the victim with a dangerous weapon in Feb. 2024. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Valeria Luster is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-055

Luis Gerardo Trejo-Zambrano; Luis Antonio Soria; Bryan Ulysses Martinez; Darmel Dashun Batemon Jr.; Marcos Zamrano-Rivera Jr.; Kalob Nathaniel Burton; Christopher Yahir Martinez. Conspiracy and Attempt to Traffick Firearms (Counts 1 and 3); Kidnapping (Count 2); Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (Counts 4, 9 and 10); Possession of an Unregistered Silencer (Count 5); Receipt of a Firearm While Under Indictment for a Felony (Count 6); Transporting Firearms in Interstate Commerce While Under Indictment (Counts 7 and 8) (superseding). Trejo-Zambrano, 22, of Watts, Soria, 21, of Siloam Springs, AR, Bryan Martinez, 18, of Springdale, AR, are charged with conspiring to dispose of one or more firearms on Sep. 10, 2023. Trejo-Zambrano, Soria, Bryan Martinez, and Zamarbrano-Rivera, 22, of Springdale, AR, knowingly kidnapped someone on Sep. 10, 2023. Trejo-Zambrano, Batemon, 21, of North Little Rock, AR, Burton, 23, Maumelle, AR, and Christopher Martinez, 20, of Little Rock, AR, allegedly conspired to dispose of one or more firearms between Sep. 15 and Sep. 16, 2023. Trejo-Zambrano purportedly possessed an unregistered silencer and willfully received a firearm knowing he was under indictment. Soria and Batemon are also charged with transporting firearms while under indictment. Trejo-Zambrano, Zambrano-Rivera, and Burton are further charged with possessing a firearm after being convicted of one or more felonies in various states. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Elmore and John Brasher are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-045

Morgan Cole Womack. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute. Womack, 40, of Tulsa, is charged with conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. He is further charged with intentionally possessing methamphetamine for distribution. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-057

A Tulsa woman was sentenced today for three counts of Evidence Tampering, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Ashton Nikoel Mattingly, 31, of Tulsa to 144 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to court documents, in Feb. 2021, Mattingly knew she was the target of a federal Grand Jury investigation. She instructed a third party to go into her home and remove a pill bottle so it would not be available as evidence in the investigation. Mattingly then instructed the third party to tamper with her social media account, attempting to disable the account. She then contacted a different third party instructing them to falsify that her cellphone was stolen and to request the service to be disabled. Mattingly admitted that she knowingly intended to obstruct the Grand Jury investigation.  

Mattingly will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vani Singhal and Timothy Faerber prosecuted the case.

Andrew Leon Roberts, 67, of Tulsa was sentenced today for Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country and Destruction of Property While Placing Life in Jeopardy in Indian Country, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Roberts to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release.

According to court documents, witnesses observed Roberts trying to run people off the road with his vehicle. Roberts came upon two Tulsa Police officers there were transporting an unrelated arrestee to jail. He then side swiped the first officers patrol car and attempted to rear end the second patrol car. Roberts turned around and attempted to T-bone the second patrol car, who was able to evade the attempt. Roberts then left the scene.

Later that day, Roberts was at his friend’s house. He began threatening to ram his friend’s vehicle. The friend asked Roberts to leave and called 911. Witness said that Roberts was driving erratically through the neighborhood. He pulled up to an elderly witness and stated to leave the area because, “there was going to be a killing.”

As officers responded to the 911 call, Roberts was still in the neighborhood. Upon sight of the first responding officer, Roberts immediately began ramming into a third patrol car several times. His rampage was finally stopped when an officer discharged their duty weapon at Roberts, while Roberts attempted to run him over. This caused Roberts to wreck into a tree where he was taken into custody.

Roberts is a member of the Cherokee Nation. He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Cozzoni prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the February Federal Grand Jury 2023-A Indictments.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Nathan Dewayne Burks. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Felon in Possession of Ammunition (superseding). Nathan Dwayne Burks, 32, a Cherokee Nation member, is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.  He is further charged with possessing ammunition after being convicted of 3 felonies in Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court. The FBI and Sand Springs Police Department are the investigating agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Cyran is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-312

Juan Cervando Cervantes Sepulveda. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Cervantes Sepulveda, 37, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Jun. 2022, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-038

Nicholas Kyle Dietzel. Attempted Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age; Attempted Interstate Travel with Intent to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct with a Person Under 18 Years of Age; Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Attempted Distribution of Child Pornography to a Minor; Receipt and Distribution of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Dietzel, 43, of Tulsa, a Cherokee Nation member, is charged with attempting to cross State lines to entice a minor under 12 years old to engage in a sexual act. He allegedly attempted to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity. Dietzel also attempted to distribute videos depicting the sexual abuse of children to a minor. He is further charged with knowingly receiving, possessing, and distributing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. Homeland Security Investigations – Tulsa, Homeland Security Investigations – Phoenix, Tulsa International Airport Police Department, Tulsa Police Department, Tulsa County Sherriff’s Office, Creek County Sherriff’s Office, and Collinsville Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-30

Mark Alfred Foreman. First Degree Burglary in Indian Country (Counts 1 and 2); Second Degree Burglary in Indian Country (Count 3); Third Degree Burglary in Indian Country (Counts 4 through 7). Foreman, 37, of Tulsa, a Sac and Fox Nation member, is charged with breaking into the home of three separate individuals in Nov. 2023. He is further charged with breaking into the vehicles of four separate individuals in Nov. 2023. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Flynn is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-044

Freddie Dewayne Gaskey. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of an Unregistered Weapon Made from a Shotgun. Gaskey, 46, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition after he had previously been convicted of several felonies in various Oklahoma District Courts. He is further charged with possessing an unregistered shotgun. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and U.S. Marshal Service are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin G. Bish is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-039

Christin Brianna Kelley. Second Degree Murder in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Kelley, 33, of Sapulpa, a Muscogee (Creek) Nation member, is charged with killing Isaac Smith in Jan. 2024. She is further charged with discharging a firearm during a crime of violence and possessing a firearm and ammunition after being convicted of three felonies in Tulsa County District Court. The FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Sand Springs Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eric O. Johnston and Stephen J. Flynn are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-040

Timothy Don Major, Jr. Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Receipt of Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Major, 34, of Tulsa, a Cherokee Nation member, is charged with persuading and enticing a minor child under 18 years old. He is further charged with knowingly receiving and possessing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children under 12 years old. Homeland Security Investigations, Tulsa Police Department and the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Robert is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-033

Victor Adrian Medina-Beltran. Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Medlina-Beltran, 37, a Honduran national, is charged with knowingly and intentionally possessing over 5 kilograms of cocaine with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration – Tulsa and El Paso Division, Tulsa Police Department, and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-032

Cavin Tyler Morgan. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country (Counts 1 through 3); Making a Materially False, Fictitious, and Fraudulent Statement (Counts 4 and 5); Tampering with Evidence by Corrupt Persuasion (Count 6). Morgan, 27, of Welch, a Cherokee Nation member, is charged with assaulting three individuals with a dangerous weapon. He is further charged with making false statements to law enforcement and persuading someone to conceal evidence in Jan. 2024. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Craig County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen N. Scaife and John Brasher are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-041

Robert Ivan Nading. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of an Unregistered Weapon Made from a Shotgun Having a Barrel of Less Than 18 Inches in Length; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence in Indian Country; Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (superseding). Nading, 55, of Welch, a Cherokee Nation member, is charged with possessing a firearm and ammunition after previously being convicted of felonies in Kansas and Ohio. He allegedly possessed an unregistered shotgun, with intent to do bodily harm to two individuals while discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. He is further charged with intent to do bodily harm to a third individual while brandishing a firearm in Apr. 2023.  The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Craig County Sherriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney John W. Dowdell is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-250

Jovin Roque-Avila. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Roque-Avile, 26, a Honduras national, is charged with knowing he was an illegal alien and unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition in Dec. 2023. The Homeland Security Investigations and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shakema M. Onias is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-042

Ronald Dale Sanders. Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity; Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country; Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor in Indian Country; Tampering with Evidence by Corrupt Persuasion; Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Production of Child Pornography (superseding). Ronald Dale Sanders, 55, of Belton, Missouri, is charged with traveling to engage in a sexual act with an Indian child under the age of 16, from Aug. 2023 through Oct. 2023. He allegedly attempted to destroy or conceal evidence as well as coercing and enticing the child. He is further charged with enticing a minor for the purpose of producing visual images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. The FBI, Ottawa County Sherriff’s Office, Miami Police Department, and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia Hockenbury is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-354

Luis Gerardo Trejo-Zambrano; Luis Antonio Soria; Bryan Ulysses Martinez; Darmel Dashun Batemon Jr. Conspiracy and Attempt to Traffick Firearms (Counts 1 and 3); Kidnapping (Count 2); Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition (Count 4); Possession of an Unregistered Silencer (Count 5); Receipt of a Firearm While Under Indictment for a Felony (Count 6); Transporting Firearms in Interstate Commerce While Under Indictment (Counts 7 and 8). Trejo-Zambrano, 22, of Watts, Soria, 21, of Siloam Springs, AR, Martinez, 18, of Springdale, AR, and are charged with conspiring to dispose of one or more firearms. Trejo-Zambrano, Soria, and Martinez knowingly kidnapped a victim. Batemon, 21, of North Little Rock, AR, Trejo-Zambrano, and Soria are also charged with transporting firearms while under indictment. Trejo-Zambrano is further charged with allegedly conspiring to dispose of a firearm and possessing an unregistered silencer. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Elmore and John Brasher are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-045

TULSA, Okla. – Today in federal court, Ray Alexander Villalba, 21, of Arizona, and Elijah Paul Titone, 25, of Muskogee plead guilty to Carjacking; Carrying and Using a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence; Obstructing, Delaying, and Affecting Commerce by Robbery; Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence.   

According to both plea agreements, on December 3, 2022, Villalba and Titone messaged a victim to meet up through a dating app. Villalba and Titone took guns, duct tape, and masks. They hid in bushes and when the victim arrived, they hit, bound, and blindfolded him. They forced the victim to turn over the keys to his vehicle.  Villalba drove, while Titone rode in the back with the victim. They threatened him and his family if he did not comply with their commands. Blindfolded and bound, the victim was forced out of the car where Villablba and Titone drove off. The victim was able to break the binding and walked home. He contacted the Tulsa Police Department and reported the vehicle stolen.

During a second incident on December 6, 2022, Villalba and Titone broke into a home in Broken Arrow wearing ski masks and carrying firearms. They threatened the victim in the home and demanded marijuana. The victim did not comply and Villalba hit him in the eye with his firearm. As a result, the victim lost sight in that eye. Before leaving the home, they took his cell phone and keys.

Villalba and Titone will remain in custody awaiting sentencing. They both face multiple term of imprisonment including up to life for the firearm offenses. At sentencing, the federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Tulsa Police Department, and Broken Arrow Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore and John Brasher are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Sir Michael Morgan, Jr., 20, of Tulsa to 210 months imprisonment, followed by
5 years of supervised release for Second Degree Murder in Indian Country.

“Gang rivalry and gun violence resulted in the senseless death of Isaiah Jones,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Today’s sentence reflects this defendant’s callous disregard for life and reaffirms that prosecutors and law enforcement will hold violent criminals accountable for their actions.”

According to court documents, on January 29, 2022, Morgan killed Isaiah Jones by shooting him multiple times. Morgan believed that Jones, who was in a rival gang, shot his friend. A confrontation led to Morgan shooting at Jones and Jones returning fire. Morgan pleaded guilty to intentionally shooting and killing Jones with a 9mm handgun. Morgan sustained four gunshot wounds.

Morgan is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. He will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia N. Hockenbury and Stacey P. Todd prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

Today, U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Daijon Marque Welch, 27, of Tulsa for Second Degree Murder in Indian Country. Welch was sentenced to 156 months imprisonment, followed by 5 years of supervised release.

“This deadly act of violence at the hands of Daijon Welch changed the family of Cameron Wilson forever and seriously injured another man,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “My office will continue to pursue violent crime whether in Tulsa or in rural Oklahoma. There are no higher priorities than keeping our communities safe and fighting for victims of violent crime.”

According to court documents, Welch plead guilty to intentionally shooting Cameron Wilson several times. On April 22, 2020, Tulsa Police Department responded to a 911 call of a shooting at 8201 E. Skelly Drive. Witnesses reported that they heard several gun shots and witnessed Welch fleeing the area. One victim was shot in the face, forearm, and abdomen. The second victim, Cameron Wilson was pronounced deceased at the scene. Officers canvased the area, found Welch and the semi-automatic black pistol he attempted to hide.

Welch is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin G. Bish prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.

U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Jacob William Fairchild, 34, of Claremore for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor in Indian Country. Judge Frizzell ordered Fairchild to 120 months imprisonment, followed by 10 years of supervised release. Upon release, Fairchild will also be required to register as a sex offender.

According to court documents, in March 2012, Fairchild persuaded a 13-year-old minor child to engage in a sexual relationship with him. At that time, Fairchild was 23 years old. Fairchild will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Rogers County Sherriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Brasher, Stacey Todd and Gina Gilmore prosecuted the case.

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

A Tulsa man was sentenced today for First Degree Murder in Indian Country after being convicted by a federal jury in Nov. 2022, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Kyle Edwin Freeman, 37, member of the Seminole Tribe of Florida, to life imprisonment.

According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Freeman had been staying with the victim, Donald Thomas in the days leading up to the murder. Freeman and his girlfriend were in a physical altercation. Witnesses said that Thomas was successful in breaking up the altercation and even exchanged a hug with Freeman, who appeared to be calm. Approximately 20 minutes later, Freeman entered the room with a water meter key and struck Thomas over the head several times killing him.  

Freeman will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI, Tulsa Police Department, Muscogee Nation Lighthorse Police Department, and the Creek County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kenneth Elmore and John E. Brasher prosecuted the case.

TULSA, Okla. – U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson announced today that the Northern District of Oklahoma (NDOK) collected $3,891,104.49 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2023. Of this amount, $2,516,899.27 was collected in criminal actions and $1,374,205.22 was collected in civil actions. 

Additionally, the NDOK worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $14,977,950.60 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $1,266.60 was collected in criminal actions and $14,976,684.00 was collected in civil actions.         

“The Financial Litigation Program/ The Asset Recovery Unit at the U.S. Attorney’s Office ensures that court ordered restitution is paid to victims, fines are collected, and civil financial obligations are met. In fiscal year 2023, this team of federal prosecutors, investigators, and professional legal staff diligently worked to collect almost $4 million on behalf of taxpayers and victims of crime,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

For example, in June 2023, the Asset Recovery Unit recovered over $225,000 in court ordered fines, restitution and a money judgment from Scott Wayne Jarman. Jarman plead guilty and was sentenced for two False Statements to the United States Small Business Administration for COVID fraud.

In July 2023, the Financial Litigation Program recovered $60,000 from Raymond Dudley. Dudley was sentenced for Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 in Indian Country and Sexual Abuse of a Minor in Indian Country. Dudley’s monetary penalties were court ordered and received for the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) Assessment. The funds also go towards victim services including the Domestic Trafficking Victims Fund administered by the Attorney General.

In October 2023, the Financial Litigation Program recovered almost $60,000 in restitution to the Social Security Administration (SSA) upon the conviction of Kelly Dawson for Theft of Government Property. Dawson plead guilty in Jun. 2023 for collecting SSA funds on behalf of his children whom he placed in a group home. 

In November 2023, the Asset Recovery Unit recovered $134,325.69 on behalf of the victim in Matthew William Cook’s embezzlement; as well as $134,325.69 in payment of a forfeiture money judgment. Cook plead guilty in Aug. 2022 for wire fraud after creating a scheme to defraud his employer. 

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

Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in NDOK, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $407,741.00 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2023. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.

A Bartlesville man was sentenced yesterday for Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Suffocating in Indian County, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.

U.S. District Judge Terence C. Kern sentenced Andrew John Brown, 50, to 27 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. According to court documents, Brown began arguing with the victim. He admitted and plead guilty to placing the victim in a “chokehold” and strangled her with his hands.

Brown was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Osage Nation Tribal Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey prosecuted the case.

A Sperry man was sentenced yesterday for Involuntary Manslaughter in Indian Country and Leaving the Scene of an Accident Resulting in Death, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Terence C. Kern sentenced Roger Allen Stevens, 32, a member of Cherokee Nation, to 30 months imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release.

According to the guilty plea, on October 28, 2018, Stevens failed to yield to the right of way to Timothy Hayhurst, while he was riding a motorcycle. This resulted in the death of Mr. Hayhurst. After the accident, Stevens did not contact 911 or stay at the scene of the accident.  

Stevens was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric O. Johnston prosecuted the case.

TULSA, Okla.  –  A woman was sentenced today to 18 months and for wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Terence, C. Kern, sentenced Carmen Leann Oliver, 34. Judge Kern further ordered Oliver to 5 years of supervised release and to pay $170,832 in restitution.

According to court documents, from August 2020 through July 2021, Oliver engaged in a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration by obtaining an Economic Injury Disaster Loan she was not entitled to. She lied on her application and received proceeds meant for the business applicant’s operating expenses. Oliver met the application requirements by claiming she had five employees and revenue prior to January 2020. Once the loan was approved and deposited into her account, Oliver misappropriated funds for personal use including gambling at various casinos. 

Oliver was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi prosecuted the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Since the inception of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and has seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-takes-action-against-covid-19-fraud

As part of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson is announcing partnership in the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation and Trafficking Task Force (TACETT) created by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).

TACETT will be proactive on crimes against children relating to the internet including the distribution and production of child pornography, child enticement or exploitation, and human trafficking. The task force will also investigate other child-related cases, including, but not limited to, missing / abducted children, sexting and indecent exposure where children are victims. In addition, the task force will conduct outreach in communities in Oklahoma in an attempt to identify unreported crimes involving children, as well as conducting educational outreach at schools and various youth community organizations.

This partnership will multiply each agency’s resources, authorities, and jurisdictions to prevent, identify, investigate, and ultimately prosecute child exploitation and human trafficking related crimes. This will also enable HSI and its partners to share resources, best practices and intelligence assets thereby maximizing their ability to conduct effective investigations to combat human trafficking and ever-evolving crimes against children.

“This task force is designed to foster closer relationships between the Northern District of Oklahoma and federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement who are actively involved in any child exploitation and human trafficking related investigations,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Federal prosecutors and law enforcement will do everything within our power to protect victims of child exploitation and human trafficking.”

“Protecting our most marginalized and vulnerable is a major priority for HSI,” said Lester R. Hayes, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, HSI Dallas. “The creation of this task force will enhance our law enforcement capabilities immensely.” 

The TACETT incorporates personnel from HSI Tulsa, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Tulsa Police Department, Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, Rogers County Sheriff’s Office, LeFlore County District Attorney’s Office, Muskogee Police Department,  Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office, Pryor Creek Police Department, Skiatook Police Department, Broken Arrow Police Department, Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office, Collinsville Police Department, Owasso Police Department, Mayes County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, Checotah Police Department, Sapulpa Police Department, Bristow Police Department, Glenpool Police Department, Tahlequah Police Department, Coweta Police Department, Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police Department, Osage County Sheriff’s Office, McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

If you or someone you know is a victim of child exploitation or experienced human trafficking, confidential help is available. Resources and contact information for child exploitation is available through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. Human trafficking resources and contact information is available through the National Human Trafficking Hotline Call: 1-888-373-7888; Text: HELP to 233733 (BEFREE); or Chat: humantraffickinghotline.org/chat.

A federal jury convicted Cody Paul Miller, 46, of Collinsville and a member of the Cherokee Nation, Friday for Sexual Abuse of an Incapable Victim in Indian Country.

“Cody Miller rationalized his actions knowing the victim was intoxicated. This is unacceptable and criminal,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.  “This office and our law enforcement partners will bring to account those who commit acts of sexual violence.”

According to court documents, the 18-year-old victim was staying the night at Miller’s house with two of her friends, whom were both under 18 years of age. The victim brought alcohol to Miller’s home and began consuming it with Miller. Miller told the police that the victim was intoxicated, but he engaged in several sexual acts with her, none of which the victim remembered. Later, the victim woke up to Miller sexually assaulting her. She repeatedly asked the defendant to stop, and he did not. After leaving Miller’s home, the victim went to a friend’s home where she disclosed what Miller did. After receiving encouragement from her friend, the victim contacted police.

When the defendant was questioned by police, he told officers that the victim “got drunk really fast that night” and even “fell off the bed” because she was so drunk. Miller told law enforcement that the intimacy was mutual and that he stopped when the victim asked him to stop.  

Miller will remain in custody until he is sentenced at a later date. He faces up to life imprisonment. The FBI and Collinsville Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Valeria G. Luster and Matthew P. Cyran prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the January 2024 Federal Grand Jury B Indictments.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Miguel Acuna-Segura. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Acuna-Segura, 40, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in May 2011, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-020

Kenneth Alejandro Cruz-Bustillo. Alien Unlawfully in the United States in Possession of a Firearm. Cruz-Bustillo, 27, a Honduras national, is charged with knowing he was an illegal alien and unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition in Aug. 2023. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shakema M. Onias is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-019

Miguel Angel Del Rio-De La Torre. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Rio-De La Torre, 29, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Nov. 2018, at or near El Paso, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot P. Anderson is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-018

Roque Gaytan-Gonzalez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Gaytan-Gonzalez, 54, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Aug. 2023, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-013

Jesus Alberto Monges Sanchez; Cassidy Stone. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Monges Sanchez, 32, a Mexican national, is charged with conspiring to distribute and possession of methamphetamine from Oct. 2023 through Jan. 2024. Monges Sanchez, and Stone, 29, of Tulsa, are both charged with maintaining a residence for the purpose of distributing methamphetamine from Oct. 2023 through Jan. 2024. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-024

Manuel Manrrique Oviedo-Ucles. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Oviedo-Ucles, 39, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Aug. 2014, at or near Houston, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot P. Anderson is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-014

Rolando Palacios-Castorena. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Palacios-Castorena, 36, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Jul. 2017, at or near Del Rio, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-015

Timothy Danel Ray Smeltzer. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Suffocating in Indian Country; Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury in Indian Country. Smeltzer, 35, of Nowata and member of Cherokee Nation Tribe, is charged with assaulting a former dating partner by strangling in Dec. 2023. Smeltzer is further charged with assault that resulted in serious bodily injury. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa Weems is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-016

Megan Elizabeth Statum. Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. Statum, 32, of Tulsa, possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute in Dec. 2023. She is further charged with possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Sand Springs Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam C. Bailey is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-017

Aaron Michael Thomas; Darren Doil Means. Introduction of a Misbranded Drug into Interstate Commerce (Counts 1 through 3); Drug Conspiracy (Count 4); Possession of Pregabalin with Intent to Distribute (Count 5); Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises (Count 6); Smuggling Goods into the United States (Count 7) (superseding). Thomas, 41, and Means, 58, of Tulsa, are charged with the introduction of the misbranded drugs, gabapentin, xylazine and pregabalin into interstate commerce. The indictment charges that from 2021 through 2023, Thomas and Means conspired to distribute pregabalin, a Schedule V controlled substance, and maintained a residence for the purpose of distribution. Further the indictment alleges that in Oct. 2023, they knowingly possessed pregabalin with intent to distribute.  They are both further charged with willfully importing pregabalin into the United States with false labeling in Aug. 2021. The Food & Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nathan E. Michel and Aaron M. Jolly are prosecuting the case. 23-CR-333

A federal jury today convicted a Bluejacket man who voluntarily waived his right to counsel and represented himself at trial. Lance Douglas Roark, 43, of Bluejacket and a member of the Delaware Tribe of Indians, was convicted of Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country and Assault with Intent to Commit Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 years of Age in Indian Country. 

“Lance Roark manipulated a child in June of 2023 to fulfill his own criminal sexual desires,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “That child showed tremendous strength and courage in trial as she faced her predator. Lance Roark has now been held accountable for his criminal actions.”

According to court documents and testimony presented at trial, on June 9, 2023, Roark engaged in abusive sexual contact and intentionally assaulted a minor child who was eleven. When the child victim took the witness stand, prosecutors asked her questions about the sexual abuse and assault. The victim testified that Roark described biblical stories and how they could be “free in who they had sex with.” Roark asked her if she felt uncomfortable. Even after she told him that she was uncomfortable, Roark continued grooming the child. Roark showed her pornography and even convinced the child that if he abused her, they would win the lottery. He also asked the child not to tell anyone. As the child continued to describe the sexual contact and assault, Roark had a hard time making eye contact with the victim as she testified. While prosecutors presented drawings the child made describing Roark’s genitalia, he still would not make eye contact. When Roark cross-examined the child, he would not say “sexual abuse” or “sexual assault.”

On June 8, 2023, Roark approached a separate minor who is 17 years old. The witness described to prosecutors how Roark approached her after she saw him touching himself. She testified that Roark apologized for staring at her chest. Roark attempted to persuade her to have sex with him. She was able to decline his advances and separate herself from him.

Roark will remain in custody until he is sentenced at a later date. He faces up to life imprisonment. The FBI and Craig County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chantelle Dial and Alicia N. Hockenbury prosecuted the case.

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

A Commerce man was sentenced today for Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Andrew Shane Hartman, 49, to 108 months imprisonment, followed by 12 years of supervised release. Upon release, Hartman will also be required to register as a sex offender.

According to court documents, the FBI discovered Hartman distributing images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children in various chat rooms. After being arrested and appearing before the court, Hartman was released on supervised release. Hartman then violated conditions of his supervised release and was detained prior to sentencing. He will continue to remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Nassar and Joshua M. Carmel prosecuted the case.

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

A Tulsa man was sentenced today coercion and enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson.
U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Miles Alan Parsons, 39, a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation, to 120 months imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervision by the U.S. Probation Office. Upon release, Parsons will also be required to register as a sex offender.

According to court documents, in Sept. 2022, Parsons responded to a post on social media with a person whom he believed to be a 14-year-old female. Over several days, Parsons engaged in sexual conversation, sent nude videos and photos of himself, and requested the underage female to do the same. He then requested the underage female to come to his house. The underage female agreed to meet Parsons down the street from his home. Hoping to engage in sexual intercourse, Parsons admitted to ordering a ride share to pick up the underage female. When the ride shared arrived, Parsons was arrested.  

Parsons will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The Homeland Security Investigations and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the January 2024 Federal Grand Jury A.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Christian Douglas Cook. Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to do Bodily Harm in Indian Country. Cook, 24, transient and a citizen of Choctaw Nation is charged with assault with intent to do bodily harm in Dec. 2023. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Dunn is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-005

Johnathan Robert Havlick. Second Degree Murder in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Havlick, 23, Sapulpa and a member of the Cherokee Nation, is charged with discharging a firearm and killing Aaron Bendele in Dec. 2023. The FBI and Sapulpa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Valeria Luster and Kate Brandon are prosecuting the case. 24-CR-003

Nelson Alexis Torres Leon; Roberto Quiroz Lopez; Jose Isla-Chavez; Gerardo Martinez, Jr. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Possession of Heroin with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute (superseding). Leon, 23,  Lopez, 49, Isla-Chavez, 29, Mexican nationals, and Martinez, 23 from Oklahoma City, are each charged with drug conspiracy.
Leon is charged with possessing and distributing fentanyl and heroin. Lopez is charged with possessing and distributing heroin. Isla-Chavez is charged with possessing and distributing fentanyl. Leon, Isla-Chavez, and Lopez are also charged with  maintaining a residence for distributing fentanyl and/or heroin. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joel-lyn A. McCormick and Mandy M. Mackenzie and are prosecuting the case. 23-CR-380

Benita Lorenzo Nicolas. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Nicolas, 45, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Jun. 2017, at or near Del Rio, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-001

Shelly Annette Mcelroy; Gary Don Mcelroy. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Tampering with a Record, Document, and Other Object. (superseding) Shelly McElroy, 52, and Gary McElroy, 54 of Tulsa are charged with drug conspiracy from Sep. 2023 through Oct. 2023. They are also charged with possessing methamphetamine and fentanyl with intent to distribute in Oct. 2023. Shelley McElroy was also charged with attempting to tamper with and erase the contents of a cellular phone seized as evidence in Oct. 2023. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam D. McConney and Niko Boulieris are prosecuting the case. 23-CR-348

Lance Douglas Roark. Abusive Sexual Contact with a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country; Assault with Intent to Commit Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country (superseding). Roark, 43, of Bluejacket and a member of the Delaware Tribe is charged with knowingly engaging in sexual contact with the intent to commit aggravated sexual abuse with a child under 12 years old. The FBI and Rogers County Sherriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia Hockenbury and Chantelle Dial are prosecuting the case. 23-CR-262

Yair De Jesus Trejo-Mendoza. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Trejo-Mendoza, 35, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Dec. 2015, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 24-CR-002

An arsonist was sentenced yesterday for malicious use of explosive material, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Coby Dale Green, 25, of Tulsa to 60 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. His sentence included a hate crime motivation enhancement.

According to court documents, Green was seen on security camera footage outside the Donut Hole donut shop in the early morning hours of Oct. 31, 2022. Green placed a flyer with anti-LGBTQ slogans on the business next door prior to using a baseball bat to break the glass door of the donut shop. He then lit an improvised incendiary device, commonly referred to as a “Molotov Cocktail,” and threw it into the restaurant. The incendiary device did not fully detonate but still caused fire damage to the business.

Investigators later searched Green’s residence and found several copies of newspaper articles about the donut shop being vandalized. The ATF Certified Fire Investigator stated that persons who commit arson will often keep mementos or “trophies.” During the search of the residence, investigators also found flyers similar to those left at the Donut Hole, as well as clothing and the lighter seen in the security footage.

Court documents state that Green had been previously arrested in Tulsa County for arson at a separate restaurant in 2021. That case was dismissed because the prosecuting witness failed to appear. Investigators also received additional reports of Green causing disturbances and leaving anti-LGBTQ flyers at other LGBTQ friendly businesses around the Tulsa area.

Green will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and Tulsa Fire Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan E. Michel and Christopher J. Nassar prosecuted the case.

This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.

A former car salesman was sentenced today for money laundering and concealing illegal proceeds, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Stacy Germain Dotson, 48, of Tulsa to 27 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Judge Frizzell further ordered Dotson to pay $16,000 in restitution.

According to his plea agreement, Dotson and co-worker, William Ray Turner created a scheme to defraud a Chevrolet dealership. Turner would create phony sales with stolen identities. Once the phony sale was approved, Dotson would help Turner transport the vehicle off the lot to sale to a third party. Dotson or Turner would then receive payment for the stolen vehicle as well as commission.

Turner plead guilty to wire fraud and was sentenced to 27 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. He was further ordered to pay $417,526.66 in restitution.

Dotson was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The U.S. Secret Service, IRS-Criminal Investigation, and Bartlesville Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi prosecuted the case.

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the December 2023 Federal Grand Jury B.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury.
The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Gerardo Arenas-Torres. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Arenas-Torres, 53, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Nov. 2013, at or near Brownville, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Anderson is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-399

Pablo Vasquez Compusano. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Compusano, 36, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Apr. 2019, at or near Laredo, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas E. Buscemi is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-400

Juan Arturo Diaz-Rodriguez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Diaz-Rodriguez, 25, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Jun. 2022, at or near Del Rio, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-401

Orlin Enriquez-Enriquez. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Enriquez-Enriquez, 26, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Nov. 2017, at or near San Antonio, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Anderson is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-402

Emilio Miguel Gallardo; Dakota Samuel Johns. Malicious Damage to Federal Property; Possession of an Unregistered Destructive Device; Manufacturing an Unregistered Destructive Device. Gallardo, 20, and Johns, 22, both from Miami were charged with attempting to damage and destroy the Ottawa County Sheriff’s Office with Molotov cocktails in Nov. 2023. They are further charged with possessing and manufacturing destructive devices not registered. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and FBI are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nathan E. Michel and Michael Flesher are prosecuting the case. 23-CR-403

Dave Luther Kendrick.  Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Kendrick, 35, of Pawnee is charged with knowingly failing to register as a sex offender from Aug. 2023 through the date of the Indictment. The United States Marshal Service is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-404

Thomas Lee Knox. Second Degree Murder in Indian Country; Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence. Knox, 38, of Tulsa and a citizen of Choctaw Nation is charged with discharging a firearm and killing Paul Schultz in Nov. 2023. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia Hockenbury is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-405

Audrell L. Lunsford.  Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Lunsford, 66, of Tulsa is charged with knowingly failing to register as a sex offender from Jan. 2021 through the date of the Indictment. The United States Marshal Service is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-406

Hong Thoa Thi Nguyen; Tait Hunter Jaco; Tam Duc Nguyen; Trinh Nguyen. Drug Conspiracy; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute. Hong Nguyen, 44, Jaco, 32, Tam Nguyen, 56, and Trinh Nguyen, 36, of Tulsa are charged with conspiring to distribute fentanyl in Nov. 2023. Hong Nguyen and Jaco were also charged for maintaining a residence for drug distribution. Jaco was further charged for possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-407

Serina Kaitlyn Vacin; Justin Michael Waymire. Drug Conspiracy; Possession of Fentanyl with Intent to Distribute; Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises. Vacin, 25 and Waymire, 27, of Tulsa are charged conspiring to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine while in possession of a firearm in Nov. 2023. They are further charged with maintaining a residence for drug distribution. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-408

Tulsa, Okla. – U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson attended the Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) Violent Crime Reduction Summit: Partnerships for Safer Communities, in Indianapolis, Indiana. The Violent Crime Reduction Summit (Summit) brought together local leadership and federal partners from Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) and National Public Safety Partnership (PSP) sites.

More than 1,100 attended the Summit to discuss violence reduction strategies, identify evidence-informed practices to increase public safety, enhance partnerships in the participating communities, and reduce violent crime.  U.S. Attorney Johnson was accompanied by Assistant U.S. Attorney and NDOK PSN Coordinator John Brasher, Cherokee Nation Deputy Marshal Erik Fuson, Muscogee (Creek) Nation Tribal Deputy Chief Daniel Wind, Tulsa Police Department Majors Mark Wollmershauser Jr. and Richard Alexander and Tulsa Police Department Sergeant Jeremy Ballard.

Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced in the opening session the release of the Justice Department’s Violent Crime Reduction Roadmap. This is a one-stop shop to assist local jurisdictions in developing, implementing, and evaluating strategies to prevent, intervene in, and respond to violent crime. The Roadmap is part of a comprehensive Justice Department strategy to help connect jurisdictions with the information and resources they need to meet the complex and evolving challenges to help reduce violent crime.

In Dec. 2022, Tulsa hosted the National PSP Violent Crime Reduction Summit. More than 500 key stakeholders from PSP sites attended, as well as DOJ officials, experts, local and federal law enforcement. The Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco delivered the opening remarks. The attendees examined evidence-based practices to increase public safety while reducing violent crime. They further discussed how to enhance partnerships within the participating communities.

“The Northern District of Oklahoma is working hard to address violent crime at every level,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Tulsa hosted the National PSP Violent Crime Reduction last December. The Roadmap will strengthen then ongoing collaboration between local, federal and tribal partners ability to address violent crime. I’m pleased to know that the resources made available can support our local, federal, and tribal partners.”

Dozens of Justice Department resources available from the Roadmap are organized around actions outlined in Saving Lives: Ten Essential Actions Cities Can Take to Reduce Violence Now, developed by the Council on Criminal Justice, a nonpartisan think tank for the criminal justice field.

The Police Executive Research Forum, funded by OJP’s Bureau of Justice Assistance, will provide local jurisdictions with tailored training and technical assistance on how to implement the 10 essential actions and utilize the Justice Department’s resources identified in the Roadmap, to reduce violent crime while building community trust. Training and technical assistance offerings include specialized expertise to help organizations solve problems and build capacity, and they provide direct connections to subject matter experts as well as how-to materials.

U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced Christopher Travon Brown, 32, a citizen of Muscogee (Creek) Nation from Tulsa to a statutory maximum term of 120 months imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Brown was sentenced on two counts of assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm in Indian Country.

According to court documents, in June 2022, Christopher Brown drove himself and another person to the victim’s house. After arriving at the residence, Brown entered the victims’ garage, grabbed a 24-inch, steel crowbar, broke down a locked bedroom door and beat the victim and victim’s girlfriend with the crowbar.  

Brown assaulted the male victim with repeated blows to the body and head. At one point during the attack, Brown wielded the crowbar over his head and hit the top of the male victim’s skull and fractured it. Brown also assaulted the victim’s girlfriend with the crowbar and struck her repeatedly, causing blunt force trauma to her arm. The male victim sustained injuries to his head, including a fractured skull, a subdural hematoma, a subarachnoid bleed, a laceration to the scalp, and a laceration to the right hand. He was transported to a hospital where he was placed in intensive care. After the assault, Brown wiped the blood off of the crowbar and fled from the scene. He was later found and arrested. At first, Brown claimed self-defense, but once he was confronted with evidence, he admitted to police that he broke through the door, assaulted both victims with a crowbar, and fled the scene.

Today at sentencing, the United States argued that Brown was a threat to public safety. Further, that because of Brown’s extensive criminal history, including both drug and assault convictions, the seriousness of the instant offense, the need to provide just punishment, and to deter future criminal conduct by Brown, the statutory maximum sentence of 120 months imprisonment was appropriate. Brown will remain in federal custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The FBI and Broken Arrow Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris prosecuted the case.

U.S. District Judge Terence C. Kern sentenced Jacob Nolan Jessup, 35, a citizen of Muscogee (Creek) Nation, to 71 months of imprisonment followed by 3 years of supervised release.

Jessup was indicted in October of 2022 and ultimately plead guilty to two separate counts for felon in possession of a firearm. Both counts included violations that occurred within four and a half months of each other. In March of 2022, Tulsa Police Department responded to a 911 call of a suspicious vehicle in a parking lot. When officers arrived to investigate, they found Jessup asleep in his vehicle. Officers woke Jessup who then opened the door and then closed it on officers. After being asked again to step out of the vehicle, Jessup got out of the vehicle. Jessup provided officers with an ID card and admitted that his driver’s license was suspended. A record check that revealed Jessup had outstanding felony warrants. Jessup was searched and an empty holster was found on his waist band. Officers then searched the vehicle and found a loaded handgun. The firearm was reported stolen out of Broken Arrow.

The second charged offense occurred in August of 2020. In that incident, Tulsa Police officers responded to a 911 call of an assault in process. Officers arrived to see Jessup walking away from the area. The 911 caller had observed Jessup throwing something into a nearby dumpster nearby.  Officers found the discarded loaded firearm in the dumpster.

Jessup will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Tulsa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Dunn prosecuted the case.

This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.

A Sapulpa man was sentenced today for production of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge Gregory K. Frizzell sentenced John Warner Hamilton, Jr, 48, citizen of the Quapaw Tribe of Indians, to 180 months of imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervision by the U.S. Probation Office. Upon his release, Hamilton will also be required to register as a sex offender. 

According to court documents, Hamilton secretly recording an unclothed minor child on his cellphone. He further admitted to setting up a camera to record from another room and the videos were saved to his device for later viewing.

Hamilton will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The FBI and Sapulpa Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Jiang prosecuted the case.

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

United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the December 2023 Federal Grand Jury A.

The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury.
The return of an indictment is a method of  informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.

Elgin Zip Adkins. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Adkins, 23, of Tulsa is charged with possessing firearm and ammunition after he had previously been convicted of a felony in Tulsa County District Court. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Oklahoma Highway Patrol are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney David A. Nasar is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-389

Keenan Duke Lamont Brown, II; Isaac Emiliano Littleman-Ortega; Royal Dale Juan Brown. Robbery in Indian Country (count 1); Carrying, Using, and Brandishing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (counts 2 and 7); Carjacking (count 3); Carrying, Using, Brandishing, and Discharging a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence (count 4); Kidnapping in Indian Country (count 5); Obstructing, Delaying, and Affecting Commerce by Robbery (count 6) (superseding). K. Brown, 19, a member of Muscogee (Creek) Nation, Littleman-Ortega, 18, a member of Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes, and R. Brown, 20, each from Tulsa, are charged with using a firearm to commit robbery in Sept. 2023. They are further charged with brandishing and discharging a firearm during a carjacking and kidnapping. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua M. Carmel and Nathan E. Michel are prosecuting the case. 23-CR-339 

Kyle Thomas Brown; Audryanna Gibbens; Julia Lydia Savage; Dustin Louis Palmer. Drug Conspiracy (superseding). Brown, 28, of Santa Maria, CA, Gibbens, 43, of Oceano, CA, Savage, 33 of Atascadero, CA, and Palmer, 39 of Arroyo Grande, CA, are charged with possessing and distributing methamphetamine from Aug. 2021 through Oct. 2021. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney John E. Brasher is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-309

Kacey J. Hamilton. Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Hamilton, 32, of Tulsa, is charged with knowingly failing to register as a sex offender from Sep. 2021 through the date of the Indictment. The United States Marshal Service is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-390

Jorge Hernandez Rubalcaba. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien; Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. Rubalcaba, 39, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Jun. 2023, at or near Laredo, Texas. He is also charged with failing to register as a sex offender from Jun. 2022 through the date of the Indictment. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations, United States Marshal Service and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot P. Anderson is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-393

Kevin David Kost. Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition; Possession of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute; Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drag Trafficking Crime. Kost, 34, of Tulsa is charged with possessing firearm and ammunition after he had previously been convicted of felonies in Tulsa County District Court. He is further charged with trafficking, possession and intent to distribute Fentanyl and Methamphetamine.  The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Cherokee Nation Marshal Service are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy M. Mackenzie is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-384

Jarrod Demar Mansker. Assault of an Intimate/Dating Partner by Strangling and Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country; Domestic Assault by an Habitual Offender in Indian Country (superseding). Mansker, 51, a member of Muscogee (Creek) Nation, is charged with strangling an intimate dating partner in Sep. 2023. He is further charged with habitual domestic assault after being convicted in Muscogee (Creek) Nation District Court as well as Tulsa County District Court. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory Richard is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-342  

Edward Leon Pulley. Felon in Possession of Firearms and Ammunition; Possession of a Stolen Firearm. Pulley, 34, of Tulsa, is charged with possessing firearms and ammunition after he had previously been convicted of felonies throughout Oklahoma. He is further charged with possessing a stolen firearm in Aug. 2023. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Tulsa Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-391

Edgar Geovanny Rodriguez-Aranda. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Rodriguez-Aranda, 39, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed in Jul 2018, at or near Brownsville, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-392

Rudy Tyler Rudd. Kidnapping in Indian Country. Rudd, 39, of Adair and a member of the Osage Nation, is charged with knowingly and unlawfully kidnapping two victims in Aug. 2023. The FBI and Mayes County Sheriff’s Office are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mallory Richard is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-394