Western District of Oklahoma

Thank you so much for those kind words, Bob.

Every year, on the 19th of April, people gather here at this beautiful memorial to remember those who were killed, those who survived, and those who were changed forever, to commemorate the strength of the community that came together in the face of such great loss, and to celebrate the resilience that makes Oklahoma City a model for communities everywhere.

And every year on this day, wherever I am, I reflect on the loss so many of you endured – the loss you continue to endure.

In the words of the late Nobel Peace Prize winner Elie Wiesel, at the dedication of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington:

"'For the dead and the living, we must bear witness.’ For not only are we responsible for the memories of the dead, we are also responsible for what we are doing with those memories."

We bear witness so that younger generations – those who do not know firsthand about the bombing of the Murrah Federal Building – can understand and learn of the tragedy. We tell and retell the story, to instill in them the commitment to prevent tragedies like this from occurring again.

I am deeply humbled to bear witness with you today.

****

26 years ago, I was sitting in my office at the Department of Justice in Washington, when an “Urgent Report” from the Oklahoma City U.S. Attorney’s Office came through. It was soon followed by a second "Urgent Report," and then a third.

There had been an explosion at the Murrah building.

Those were the days when our only source of 24/7 news was CNN. My colleagues and I gathered in front of a TV in my office and caught our first glimpse of the destruction.

As information poured in, we gathered again at FBI headquarters to monitor events as a myriad of law enforcement agencies went to work.

An axle that landed some 200 yards away from the site provided a VIN number. The VIN number was traced to a truck manufactured by Ford, purchased by Ryder in Florida, and last rented at a shop in Junction City, Kansas.

A sketch artist drew a picture of the renter, and the FBI made the rounds in Junction City, looking for anyone who had seen him. Lea McGowan, the proprietor of the Dreamland Motel, recognized him, and an all-points-bulletin went out for Timothy McVeigh.

Meanwhile, 48 hours after the bombing, I was on the FBI plane traveling to Oklahoma. In those days, the plane could not make it to Oklahoma in one jump. We had to refuel in Indiana.

When I stepped outside, an agent handed me a cell phone. You would not recognize it today – in those days, a cell phone was the size (and weight) of a brick.

It was Attorney General Janet Reno calling. McVeigh had been found in the Noble County jail.

Charlie Hanger, then a sharp-eyed Oklahoma state trooper – who until last year was the Noble County Sheriff – had stopped him 90 minutes after the bombing for a missing license plate.

Charlie noticed that McVeigh was concealing a gun, arrested him for unlawful possession, and brought him to the jail. He was about to be released when the FBI arrived.

When I landed, we drove immediately to Tinker Air Force Base. McVeigh’s first presentment to a magistrate was held there because the federal courthouse had been damaged along with the Murrah building. I argued that McVeigh should be detained, and the magistrate agreed.

We then drove to the bomb site. First, we had to pass through a ring of Humvees. The National Guard had encircled a radius of more than 16 blocks that had been damaged by the bomb. Shattered glass and crumbled bricks were everywhere.

It was night, but you would not have known it. Bright lights lit the site up as if it were midday. The front of the Murrah Building was gone. The parking lot across the street still held cars that had been flattened by the blast.

An army of first responders was crawling all over the wreckage. They had rushed to the scene from across Oklahoma and across the country. They included rescue workers from my own Maryland community, who had arrived even before I did.

They were sifting through the rubble for survivors and the dead. And everyone was crying.

At the time, we did not know exactly how many people had died. But we did know that the children’s center, which had been at the front of the building, was gone.

Then and there, we made a vow. We promised that we would find the perpetrators, that we would bring them to justice, and that we would do so in a way that honored the Constitution.

A command post was set up in a Southwestern Bell dispatch building, the windows of which had been blown out by the blast. Oklahoma law enforcement officers and federal agents from across the country, worked hand-in-hand to follow the evidence and put the case together.

Governor Frank Keating made clear there would be none of the typical inter-agency rivalries that weaken investigations. “Let’s just find the people who did this,” he told me.

And as we continued that task, we never forgot the victims, in whose memories we worked.

We met with many of you who are here today, family members and survivors. We went to the memorial service together. I carried the program for that service in my briefcase, everywhere I went.

Weeks later, we stood with some of you on the rooftop of a nearby building as we watched the remains of the Murrah building being taken down.

We tried to treat you as we would have wanted our own families to be treated.

And in return, you and all of Oklahoma City treated us like family. You took care of us – the first responders, investigators, and prosecutors who had converged on the city from across the country.

The Salvation Army kept a food line going to feed us day and night. I don’t remember what I ate, but I know I was never hungry. Nearby tables were piled high with donations of everything from toothpaste to deodorant, from sweatshirts to rain jackets.

A barbershop relocated to the convention center and offered free haircuts. When I look at photographs from those days, I realize I did not visit the barber often enough.

One resident noticed our increasingly disheveled look and even set up a laundry service at the command center.

I cannot express the depth of my gratitude for your thinking of our comfort in the midst of your pain. Nor the depth of my admiration for the care Oklahomans extended to those who were hurting, neighbors and strangers alike.

This came to be known as "the Oklahoma Standard" – a spirit of community service, generosity, and kindness that we had never seen before. The Oklahoma City National Memorial and Museum keeps the Oklahoma Standard going to this day.

As Mr. Kennedy noted, once a week the museum hosts "Better Conversations," to bring together people from different backgrounds, different politics and different ideologies, to discuss issues about which they disagree.

It may not change minds, but it fosters understanding. And understanding is key to living peacefully, side-by-side, looking for common ground instead of allowing our differences to polarize us.

****

It is now 26 years since the bombing. And it is as surprising to me as it is to you that I am now the Attorney General of the United States.

Although many years have passed, the terror perpetrated by people like Timothy McVeigh is still with us. Just last month, the FBI warned of the ongoing and heightened threat posed by domestic violent extremists.

Those of us who were in Oklahoma City in April 1995 do not need any warning. The hatred expressed by domestic violent extremists is the opposite of the Oklahoma Standard.

And this memorial is a monument to a community that will not allow hate and division to win.

The Department of Justice is pouring its resources into stopping domestic violent extremists before they can attack, prosecuting those who do, and battling the spread of the kind of hate that leads to tragedies like the one we mark here today.

We must all stand together against them – for the safety of our communities, and for the good of our country.

As Kari Watkins, the executive director of the memorial and museum, often says: "On this sacred ground, we [must] work to find common ground."

Oklahoma City, you are always in my heart.

Thank you.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, an Indictment was unsealed charging six defendants with conspiracy to commit wire fraud in a scheme to fraudulently acquire personal protective equipment and event tickets, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. 

On April 8, 2021, a federal grand jury returned a sealed Indictment against STEVEN MESROP, 29, of Richmond Hill, Ontario, Canada; MIRNA MAHROUS HABIB, 24, of Mississauga, Ontario, Canada; ROBERT VINNIK, 26, of Ontario, Canada; KATAYUN OSKOI, 24 of Ontario, Canada; CAROLINA MESROP, 23, of Ontario, Canada, and DIJON CORNELIUS SHEPARD, 27, of Los Angeles, California.  All defendants were charged with conspiracy.  In addition, Steven Mesrop and Vinnik are charged with wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.

According to the Indictment, Mesrop and his associates operated a scheme to use stolen credit card and identity information to induce businesses to provide goods and services, such as event tickets and personal protective equipment, to resell for a profit.  At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, it is alleged that the conspirators began targeting U.S.-based businesses selling goods that were scarce due to the pandemic.  The conspirators allegedly used stolen credit card information to purchase items such as nitrile gloves, masks, and gowns and to resell them to third parties.  The Indictment alleges the conspirators operated the scheme from Canada, the Dominican Republic, Spain, Greece, and Dubai.  The Indictment alleges the conspirators targeted sports teams and event venues throughout the United States and Canada, including Madison Square Garden in New York City.

The Indictment further alleges that Mesrop and his associates used 21 different alias email accounts and information from 52 stolen credit cards to purchase over 1,800 tickets to Oklahoma State University athletic events between November 2019 and January 2020.  In March 2020, the conspirators allegedly used stolen credit card information to purchase approximately $18,000 worth of toilet paper from a paper supply company in Oklahoma City.

Mesrop was arrested on March 18, 2021, in Georgia.  On March 24, 2021, Mesrop was ordered to be detained pending trial.  On April 16, 2021, Shepard was arrested in Los Angeles, California.  The other defendants remain at large. 

If convicted of conspiracy or any wire fraud count, each defendant faces a term of imprisonment on each count up to 20 years.  If convicted of aggravated identity theft, each defendant faces an additional two years in prison per count, to be served consecutively to a sentence on any other count of conviction.  Each count of conviction also includes a fine up to $250,000. 

This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations New York’s El Dorado Task Force, the New York City Police Department, and the Irvine (California) Police Department, with assistance from Customs and Border Protection.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Farrior.

The public is reminded these charges are merely accusations and that each defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  Attached is the Indictment the federal grand jury returned in this matter.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, CAYLE LEIGH KLINEKOLE, 48, of Elgin, was sentenced to serve five years of probation for embezzlement and theft from an Indian tribal organization, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

On October 30, 2020 Klinekole pleaded guilty to a single-count felony Indictment charging her with embezzlement and theft from an Indian tribal organization.

According to court documents and public record, Klinekole worked at the Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache Intertribal Land Use Committee ("KCA") as the Executive Director from 2016 to 2017.  The KCA is a designated representative body of each of the three tribes authorized to manage and conduct business regarding jointly owned lands.  During the time of her employment, Klinekole stole funds by forging checks, entering into labor agreements with companies without proper authorization, and making unauthorized purchases on credit accounts at different vendors. 

On April 15, 2021, U.S. District Judge Charles Goodwin sentenced Klinekole to serve 5 years of probation, including home confinement for the first year, and 50 hours of community service.  Judge Goodwin also ordered Klinekole to pay $194,573.18 in restitution to the Kiowa, Comanche, and Apache Intertribal Land Use Committee.  In announcing the sentence, Judge Goodwin noted the nature and circumstances of the offense and the need for the sentence to reflect the seriousness of the offense.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Comanche Nation Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica L. Cárdenas prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – This afternoon, a federal jury in Oklahoma City found JOHN SCOTT BROOKS, 55, of Lawton, guilty of bank robbery involving a fake bomb, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

According to evidence at trial, on March 23, 2020, Brooks pulled up to the drive-through teller lane at the Southwest Oklahoma Federal Credit Union located at 6714 West Gore Boulevard, Lawton, Oklahoma, and placed a fake bomb in the teller drawer.  He immediately showed the teller a timer, which was counting down. Brooks then attempted to get away with the robbery by altering the appearance of his vehicle, creating a cover story, and erasing electronic information from his cell phone. Evidence at trial included bank surveillance footage of the robbery, a bank robbery list found at Brooks’ residence, and a vehicle image comparison analysis performed by an FBI forensic examiner.  Multiple witnesses testified that they recognized Brooks in the still photo of the surveillance footage taken from the robbery.  

The trial lasted two days and the jury deliberated approximately two hours before finding Brooks guilty of one count of bank robbery.  He was acquitted on a count of making a bomb threat.  

At sentencing, Brooks faces up to twenty-five years in prison, three years of supervised release, a fine of $250,000, and mandatory restitution.  Sentencing will take place in approximately 90 days.  Mr. Brooks has been in custody since his arrest on April 2, 2020.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Office and the Lawton Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Wilson D. McGarry and Stan West prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, JOHNELLE FABRE SHELLS, 31, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 52 months in federal prison for bank robbery, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

On September 17, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a one-count Indictment charging Shells with the robbery of a branch of MidFirst Bank, located at 2225 N. May Avenue, in Oklahoma City.

According to public record and court documents, Shells entered the bank on May 21, 2018.  He handed the teller a demand note requesting she give him all the cash in the drawer, and she complied.  Later that day, Oklahoma City Police Department arrested Shells in possession of the stolen cash.  On October 24, 2019, Shells pleaded guilty to the Indictment.

Today, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Shells to serve 52 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.  In imposing the sentence, Judge Palk noted the nature and circumstances of the offense and the need for the sentence to reflect the seriousness of the offense.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Division and the Oklahoma City Police Department.  Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Ed Kumiega and Deputy Criminal Chief Lori Hines prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.

OKLAHOMA CITY — This week, five defendants were charged in separate and unrelated cases, demonstrating the continued commitment to, and benefit of, the Western District of Oklahoma’s "Operation 922" domestic violence initiative, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

Nationally, these prosecutions are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction initiative.  Through PSN, partnering law enforcement agencies identify the most pressing violent crime problems in communities and develop comprehensive solutions for lasting crime reductions.

"Operation 922" is the local implementation of the PSN initiative in the Western District of Oklahoma.  Specifically, "Operation 922" focuses on domestic violence abusers who are found in possession of firearms or ammunition.  This initiative stems from the federal prosecutors’ use of Title 18, United States Code Section 922, in which Congress has prohibited the possession of firearms and ammunition by various categories of individuals, such as those who are prior convicted felons, are subject to a victim Protection Order, are previously convicted in any court of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, and are unlawfully using or addicted to controlled substances.  By targeting the subject matter of domestic abuse and focusing on particularly violent domestic abusers, "Operation 922" does not directly or indirectly target any geographic area, socio-economic status, educational level, or ethnicity, because domestic abuse occurs in all neighborhoods, cities, and rural areas throughout the Western District of Oklahoma, including Indian Country.

This is the third anniversary since "Operation 922" began in March of 2018.  Over this period, the U.S. Attorney’s Office has charged 149 defendants from 17 different counties in domestic violence-derived cases.  Of those charged cases, 127 defendants have already been convicted or entered guilty pleas.  Of those convicted, 98 defendants have been sentenced to an average of 76.5 months in federal prison.  As a result, 211 guns and 3,367 rounds of ammunition have been seized from these defendants.  Although this initiative targets domestic violence-derived cases, a closer review reflects that one-third of the “Operation 922” defendants charged are affiliated with one of 22 different gangs.

"Operation 922" is the result of a collaborative partnership with law enforcement and non-governmental entities in the Western District of Oklahoma, including the Oklahoma County District Attorney’s Office, Oklahoma City Police Department, United States Marshals Service, Palomar Family Justice Center, Oklahoma County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives.     

"The safety of Oklahoma neighborhoods depends first on the safety in our homes," said Acting U.S. Attorney Troester.  "When law enforcement has answered repeated calls for help from domestic violence victims, and the domestic abuser is now in possession of a firearm, that next call to law enforcement may be lifechanging for the victim or the responding officer.  That is the crucial point when officers have the opportunity to remove illegally possessed guns from those abusers with a domestic violence history.  We are confident that our prosecutions are saving the lives of victims and of officers who are called to respond.  I am grateful for the dedicated efforts of Deputy Criminal Chief Lori Hines, who leads this initiative in our office, and our partners with whom we join forces to combat domestic violence throughout Oklahoma."

"Domestic violence impacts all parts of our community and is a priority for the police department," said OCPD Police Chief Wade Gourley.  “Without strong partnerships we would be unable to successfully prosecute and reduce the damage caused by violence in the home.  Operation 922 has become an extremely valuable resource in dealing with domestic violence and has truly saved lives.  When firearms are involved in domestic abuse, statistics show the outcomes are far more likely to be fatal.  Through our partnerships and strong support from the Family Justice Center, we protect victims and stop the cycle of violence in the home."

"Operation 922 is an invaluable partnership that is saving lives," said Kim Garrett, CEO of Palomar Family Justice Center.  "When abusers are held accountable, it is a powerful message to survivors: you matter, you are valued, we care about your safety.  We are proud to be a part of this life-saving collaboration and commend the U.S. Attorney’s office on their commitment to public safety."    

This week, federal charges were filed in the following five separate and unrelated cases as part of "Operation 922":

• RYAN EVERETT O’NEAL, 29, of Duncan, was charged by Complaint on April 6, 2021, with assault with a dangerous weapon in Indian County, after allegedly assaulting his girlfriend.  If convicted, O’Neal faces up to ten years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release.

• XAVION RAYELL THOMPSON, 23, of Edmond, was indicted on April 8, 2021, for illegal possession a firearm, while subject to a victim Protection Order issued out of Logan County that restrained him from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner.  If convicted, Thompson faces up to ten years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release. 

• PATRICK SEAN HICKS, 39, of Del City, was indicted on April 8, 2021, for illegal possession a firearm as a convicted felon, and while subject to a victim Protection Order issued out of Oklahoma County that restrained him from harassing, stalking, or threatening an intimate partner.  If convicted, Hicks faces up to ten years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release.

• JUSTIN DALE JACKSON, 32, of Oklahoma City, was indicted on April 8, 2021, for illegal possession of a firearm as a convicted felon, after allegedly threatening his former girlfriend.  If convicted, Jackson faces up to ten years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release.

• GEORGE MORALES SANCHEZ, 41, of Oklahoma City, was indicted on April 8, 2021, for the illegal possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.  If convicted, Sanchez faces up to ten years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine, followed by three years of supervised release. 

The public is reminded that these charges are merely allegations and that the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, DAKOTA BRENNAN GRAY, of Carmen, Oklahoma, pleaded guilty to a single-count Information charging him with negligently discharging oil into a water of the United States, in violation of the Clean Water Act, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

On December 2, 2020, Gray was charged by Information with violating the Clean Water Act.  The Clean Water Act was enacted by Congress to restore and maintain the chemical, physical, and biological quality of the Nation’s waters.  In addition, the Clean Water Act was enacted to prevent, reduce and eliminate water pollution in the United States and to conserve the waters of the United States for the protection and propagation of fish and aquatic life and wildlife, for recreational purposes, and for the use of such waters for public drinking water, agricultural, and industrial purposes.  Among other offenses, the Clean Water Act prohibits the negligent discharge of oil or a hazardous substance in harmful quantities into a water of the United States.

Yesterday, Gray pleaded guilty to discharging crude oil into the Cottonwood Creek in Major County, Oklahoma.  At the hearing, Gray admitted that he opened the valves on a tank battery that contained approximately 129 barrels of crude oil.  Gray discharged the crude oil onto the ground and most of the oil eventually spilled into Cottonwood Creek, which is a tributary stream that flows approximately 22 miles from its headwaters in Major County northeast to is confluence with the Cimarron River near Orienta, Oklahoma.  The Cimarron River flows to the Arkansas River, the Mississippi River, and ultimately the Gulf of Mexico.

A response team from the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), along with the tank battery’s owners, participated in the cleanup and recovery operation.  Response actions included the placement of rigid booms, sorbent pads, and an underflow dam to recover and remove the crude oil from Cottonwood Creek and the accompanying shoreline.  Due to the prompt response and cleanup efforts, inspectors did not observe any permanent contamination of the affected area during follow-up inspections.

At yesterday’s combined plea and sentencing hearing, U.S. Magistrate Judge Suzanne Mitchell accepted Gray’s guilty plea and sentenced him to serve three years of probation. 

"Enforcement of the Clean Water Act protects public health and the environment," said Acting U.S. Attorney Troester.  "I commend the dedicated efforts of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for their investigative efforts and rapid response to mitigate the impact of the pollution." 

"Our nation’s environmental laws are designed to protect our communities and our natural resources," said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Brooks of EPA’s Southwest Area Office.  "EPA will continue to hold individuals responsible for their environmental crimes and the resulting harm."        

This case is the result of an investigation by the EPA – Criminal Investigation Division.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, MICHAEL KERRY KENDRICK, aka "Milkman," 49, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 15 years in federal prison for conspiring to commit child sex trafficking, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.  CHRISTA LYNN GLASS, aka "Lady Milk," aka "Diamond," 40, of Oklahoma City, has already been sentenced to serve 15 years in federal prison for conspiring with Kendrick to commit child sex trafficking in a related case.

On February 20, 2020, both Kendrick and Glass were charged by federal complaint with child sex trafficking.  On June 2, 2020, Kendrick was additionally charged by Indictment by a federal grand jury with conspiring to commit child sex trafficking and the substantive offense of child sex trafficking. 

On June 17, 2020, Glass entered a guilty plea to one count of conspiring to commit child sex trafficking between September 2019 and January 28, 2020, in Oklahoma City.  On July 8, 2020, Kendrick entered a guilty plea to Count 1 of the Indictment—conspiring to commit child sex trafficking during the same time period.

On March 1, 2021, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Glass to serve 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release.  On April 2, 2021, Judge Dishman sentenced Kendrick to serve 15 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release.  Judge Dishman also imposed $5,100 in special assessments for each defendant and stated that restitution for the victim will be determined at a subsequent hearing.  At each sentencing, Judge Dishman noted the difficulty of finding words to convey how serious and egregious Kendrick and Glass’s crimes were. 

According to court documents and public record, Kendrick and Glass offered to teach a 16-year-old child about the commercial sex business.  They posted advertisements on the internet using photos they took of the child and arranged for commercial sex appointments with buyers who responded to the advertisements.  Kendrick and Glass took all the proceeds of the appointments between the child and the buyers.  Additionally, they provided the child with narcotics. 

Upon their release from prison, both Kendrick and Glass will be required to register as sex offenders.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Division and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys K. McKenzie Anderson and Mary E. Walters prosecuted the case.

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

Reference is made to public filings for more information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, BARRY ROWLAND TITUS, II, 39, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 36 months in federal prison for being a prohibited person unlawfully in possession of a firearm, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

On October 1, 2020, Titus pled guilty to one count of unlawfully possessing a firearm while being an unlawful user of a controlled substance.  Specifically, Titus admitted that, on or about November 25, 2015, he possessed a firearm in violation of federal law because he was an unlawful user of a controlled substance at the time of possession.

Today, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Titus to serve 36 months in federal prison, followed by three years supervised release.  In announcing the sentence, Judge Palk noted the nature and circumstances of the offense, as well as the history and characteristics of Titus.  Judge Palk specifically highlighted the danger that is present when the possession of firearms is combined with the use of illegal substances.  

This case is a result of an investigation by partnering law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the United States Marshals Service, and Oklahoma City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew P. Anderson, Jacquelyn M. Hutzell, and Danielle M. Connolly prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiatives to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  The case is also part of "Operation 922," the district’s local implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian.  "Operation 922" prioritizes firearms prosecutions connected to domestic violence, including domestic violence abusers who possess a firearm and are subject to a victim protective order or have been previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, DOMINIC EUGENE HUNT, aka "Dime Sack," 26, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to 80 years in prison on numerous firearms, ammunition, and drug-related charges after five years of criminal conduct, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

On November 6, 2019, a Third Superseding Indictment charged Hunt with nine counts of various firearms, ammunition, and drug-related charges from four separate episodes of criminal conduct spanning from 2014 to 2019.  The Third Superseding Indictment charged Hunt with the following: Counts 1 & 5) Drug User in Possession of a Firearm; Count 2) Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Counts 3 & 6) Possession with Intent to Distribute; Counts 4 & 7) Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Counts 8 & 9) Felon in Possession of Ammunition.

On September 4, 2020, Hunt pleaded guilty to Counts 1-3 before the case went to trial.  On September 11, 2020, after a four-day trial, the jury returned guilty verdicts on the remaining six counts.

Evidence at trial showed Hunt possessed three different firearms, including an assault rifle, on at least two separate occasions in 2014, in furtherance of his intent to distribute marijuana.  Evidence also showed the ammunition Hunt possessed in Count 8 was the ammunition used in a January 2019 shooting, the victim of which survived.  Finally, evidence showed the ammunition Hunt possessed in Count 9 was used in a drive-by shooting on February 2, 2019, which resulted in the death of Conilius “Tubby” Wright.

Today, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Hunt to serve 80 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

This case is the result of investigations by the Oklahoma City Police Department, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives, and Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Division.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacquelyn M. Hutzell and David McCrary prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, Oklahoma City attorney KEEGAN KELLEY HARROZ, 37, was sentenced to serve 24 months in federal prison for being a prohibited person unlawfully in possession of a firearm, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

On September 29, 2020, Harroz pled guilty to one count of unlawfully possessing a firearm while subject to victim protective order.  Specifically, Harroz admitted that, on or about August 4, 2019, she possessed a firearm in violation of federal law because she was subject to a state-court victim protective order at the time she possessed the firearm.

Today, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Harroz to 24 months of imprisonment, to be followed by a three-year term of supervised release.  In announcing the sentence, Judge Palk noted the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of Harroz.  Harroz has been in federal custody since September 27, 2019. 

This case is a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service and Oklahoma City Police Department, along with other law enforcement partners.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew P. Anderson, Jacquelyn M. Hutzell, and Danielle M. Connolly are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiatives to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  The case is also part of "Operation 922," the district’s local implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian.  "Operation 922" prioritizes firearms prosecutions connected to domestic violence, including domestic violence abusers who possess a firearm and are subject to a victim protective order or have been previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.

"Today, the Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals reversed the judgment and sentence of Shaun Michael Bosse and remanded the case to the state district court with instructions to dismiss.  The court ruled that the State of Oklahoma did not have jurisdiction to prosecute the defendant because the historical boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation Reservation were never disestablished and the victims were Indian.  This decision generally expands federal jurisdiction to investigate and prosecute crimes involving Indian offenders or Indian victims arising within the Chickasaw Nation Reservation.  Since last year’s Supreme Court decision in McGirt, we have been working closely with our tribal, federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to prepare for today’s decision and to protect those living within the boundaries of the Chickasaw Nation.  Our office will continue the ethical, vigorous, fair, and impartial enforcement of the laws of the United States for the benefit of our communities." - Robert J. Troester, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma

OKLAHOMA CITY – On March 1, 2021, Robert J. Troester assumed the role as the Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma, following the departure of U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing on February 28, 2021.  This is the fourth time Troester has held this position.

As Acting U.S. Attorney, Troester serves as the chief federal law enforcement officer responsible for all federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation involving the United States in the Western District of Oklahoma, an area covering 40 counties and including 21 Indian tribes.

"It is an honor and privilege to represent the United States and lead the talented team in this office as we pursue justice for the people of Western District of Oklahoma," said Acting U.S. Attorney Troester.  "I will strive to further strengthen our partnerships with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement agencies to ensure the ethical, vigorous, fair and impartial enforcement of the laws of the United States."

Troester joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 1995 as an Assistant U.S. Attorney and held various management positions since 2002, including serving as First Assistant U.S. Attorney, Executive Assistant U.S. Attorney, and Chief of the Civil Division. 

Throughout his 25-plus year career in the Department of Justice, Troester has served in various capacities within the Department. In 2020, he was Chair of the Victim Services Working Group for the President’s Commission on Law Enforcement and the Administration of Justice.  From 2017 to 2018, he served as Associate Deputy Attorney General and Sr. Counsel to the Deputy Attorney General in Washington D.C. 

From 2018 to 2019, while serving as Acting U.S. Attorney, he served as Vice-Chair of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC) Civil Rights Subcommittee and as Vice-Chair of the AGAC Health Care Fraud Working Group.  In 2005, he was appointed by the Attorney General as the sole career member to serve a three-year term on the AGAC.

In 2011 and 2012, Troester also served on several short-term special projects with the DOJ Criminal Division’s Overseas Prosecutorial Development Assistance and Training office and the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau, Moldova, to conduct a management and training needs assessment for Supervisory Prosecutors in the Moldova Prosecutor General’s Office, develop a training curriculum, and implement a training program in Moldova. 

Troester has served on two details to the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys (EOUSA) in Washington D.C.  From 2001 to 2002 he served as Deputy Director for Legal Programs, and from 1999 to 2000 he served as the national Affirmative Civil Enforcement (ACE) Coordinator. 

Prior to joining his federal service at the United States Attorney’s Office, Troester worked in private practice in Oklahoma City, in state government at the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, and in local law enforcement at the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office in Nebraska.

Troester received his Juris Doctorate from Oklahoma City University School of Law and his Bachelor of Science degree from the University of Nebraska at Kearney.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester, FBI Special Agent in Charge Melissa Godbold, OCPD Chief of Police Wade Gourley, and IRS Criminal Investigations Acting Special Agent in Charge Mark Pearson jointly announce that earlier this week, more than 100 federal, state, and local law enforcement officers executed 15 search warrants and multiple arrest warrants throughout the Oklahoma City metro area targeting a drug trafficking organization distributing methamphetamine. 

This operation was the culmination of a two-year joint state-wide investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, and the United States Attorney’s Office.  Between March 3 and March 4, 2021, a coordinated takedown was conducted that resulted in the arrest of 15 defendants and the seizure of nearly 200 gallons of liquid meth, more than 300 pounds of crystal meth, 25 firearms, and more than $100,000 in U.S. currency.  Over the course of the entire two-year investigation of this drug trafficking organization, law enforcement seized a combined total of nearly 300 gallons of liquid meth, more than 750 pounds of crystal meth, 40 firearms, and more than $1,000,000 in cash in the cases announced today and all related cases.

According to affidavits filed in support of the first criminal complaint, OSCAR HERNANDEZ FLORES, 36, and LUCERO HERNANDEZ FLORES, 41, former residents of Oklahoma, have allegedly been directing the Hernandez Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) from San Luis Potosi, Mexico, since at least January 2018.  The charging documents also allege that the Hernandez DTO is responsible for the importation, transportation, and distribution of thousands of kilograms of meth per year in the Western District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, using contacts in Oklahoma to carry out the daily operations of the DTO.  Allegedly, the organization earns millions of dollars a year in drug proceeds, most of which is ultimately transferred back down to Mexico, either through bulk cash smuggling or through third party wire transfers.  The remaining defendants in this complaint can be found in the attached public filing.

According to affidavits filed in support of the second criminal complaint, IAN BASWELL, 46, and TERRY HAMMONS, 36, who were incarcerated at North Fork Correctional Center in Sayre, Oklahoma, are charged for their alleged furtherance of Hernandez DTO activities through drug distribution operations from the North Fork Correctional Center, utilizing contraband cellphones and non-incarcerated couriers.  The remaining defendants in this complaint can be found in the attached public filing.  Likewise, CHARLES MANSFIELD, 42, who is presently incarcerated at the Lawton Correctional Facility, and MATTHEW PERRY, 31, who is presently incarcerated at the Lexington Correctional Center, were also charged in the first complaint for their alleged part in distributing drugs imported by the Hernandez DTO from their respective correctional facilities, also through the use of contraband cellphones. 

The complaints charge each defendant with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute more than 500 grams of meth.  If convicted, each defendant faces a term of imprisonment of no less than ten years and up to life and a fine of up to $10,000,000. 

"These charges are the result of tremendous effort, cooperation, and teamwork between law enforcement partners to protect our communities from illegal drugs that devastate communities across the State," said Acting U.S. Attorney Troester.  "Specifically, I commend the leadership of the FBI, Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation for their countless hours of hard work in bringing this investigation together."

"Cases that are this large and this complex require teamwork, and the results we achieved this week would not have been possible without the collaboration of the law enforcement agencies from throughout Oklahoma," said FBI SAC Godbold.  "This partnership led to the arrests and seizures of drugs that will make our streets safer and our communities stronger.  It is the type of cooperation that the public not only deserves, but has come to expect from law enforcement and I want to thank and congratulate our partners on this week’s safe and successful operation."

"The Oklahoma City Police Department appreciates the partnerships we have with our state and federal agencies," said OCPD Chief Gourley.  "Public safety in Oklahoma City takes a considerable team effort.  This investigation is a perfect example of how we work together to combat major crimes, which have a huge impact on the safety of our residents.  Methamphetamine use and its associated criminal activity have a detrimental effect on our city and this operation will certainly make our community safer.  Thank you to everyone involved for your continued support and dedication to the safety of Oklahoma City residents."

"This week’s arrests are an important victory for the American public.  The laundering of illegal drug profits is as important and essential to drug traffickers as the very distribution of their illegal drugs," said IRS-CI SAC Pearson.  "Without these ill-gotten gains, the traffickers cannot finance their organizations. The role of IRS-CI in narcotics investigations is to follow the money to financially disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking and money laundering organizations.  We are proud to provide our financial expertise as we work alongside our law enforcement partners to bring criminals to justice."

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

These charges are the result of more than two years of state-wide investigation led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation—Oklahoma City Field Office; the Oklahoma City Police Department; and the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigations, with the assistance of  Homeland Security Investigations, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the Comanche County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lawton Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys David McCrary and Nick Coffey are prosecuting the case.

The public is reminded that these charges are merely allegations and that each defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  Reference is made to public filings for more information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, JOSHUA TAYLOR LUCAS, of Austin, Texas, pleaded guilty to a single-count felony Information charging him with wildlife trafficking in violation of the Lacey Act, announced Robert J. Troester, Acting United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.

On April 14, 2020, Lucas was charged by Information with violating the Lacey Act.  Among other offenses, the Lacey Act prohibits people from importing, exporting, transporting, selling, receiving, acquiring or purchasing any fish, wildlife, or plant that was taken, possessed, transported or sold in violation of any law, treaty or regulation of the United States or in violation of any tribal law.

Yesterday, Lucas pleaded guilty to taking an endangered species of wildlife and then selling and shipping the animals across state lines in violation of the Lacey Act.  At the hearing, Lucas, a former assistant curator of herpetology at the Oklahoma City Zoo, admitted that he stole several Galapagos tortoise hatchlings during his tenure at the Zoo.  Lucas further admitted that he sold and shipped 21 Galapagos tortoise hatchlings to a Nevada resident, Kenneth Warren Foose II (deceased), who was previously under Indictment in the Southern District of Texas for the illegal traffic of Galapagos tortoises. 

At the combined plea and sentencing hearing, United States District Judge Bernard Jones accepted the guilty plea and then sentenced Lucas to serve three years of probation, perform 100 hours of community service, and pay $32,500 in restitution to the Oklahoma City Zoo. 

"The exploitation and trafficking of endangered wildlife for personal profit is unacceptable," said Acting U.S. Attorney Troester.  "I commend the steadfast efforts of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, and the prosecutors in this case, who are committed to hold traffickers of endangered animals accountable."

Phillip Land, Special Agent in Charge for the U. S. Fish and Wildlife Service - Office of Law Enforcement for the Southwestern U.S., stated "This investigation involved the illegal traffic of endangered Galapagos tortoises for the exotic pet trade.  This iconic species is the largest tortoise in the world, with hatchling sized juveniles carrying a black market value starting at $5,000 per animal.   Our Special Agents and Wildlife Inspectors make it a priority to identify, investigate, and dismantle illegal trafficking networks, and refer individual violators for prosecution under U.S. Laws."

The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles Brown and Trial Attorney RJ Powers from the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section of the Environment and Natural Resources Division.  The United States Fish and Wildlife Service conducted the investigation.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, RANDY LEW WILLIAMS, 58, of Edmond, was sentenced to serve more than three years in federal prison for illegally shipping firearms to the Middle East, in addition to two other firearms violations, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

On June 1, 2020, Williams was charged with violating the Arms Export Control Act, making a false statement to a firearms dealer, and possession of an unregistered firearm.  According to court records, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Legal Attaché in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates (UAE) notified the FBI Oklahoma City Field Division that a FedEx shipment had been seized by UAE authorities in Dubai, UAE, on December 19, 2018.  The shipment contained multiple Glock pistols and firearms parts.  Shipment records indicated the shipment was sent from Williams, from an address in Oklahoma City to the intended recipient located in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq.  Williams did not have a Federal Firearms License from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, or authority from the Department of Defense to export defense articles (i.e. weapons) outside the United States.

On June 26, 2020, Williams pleaded guilty to all three counts charged. 

Today, U.S. District Judge Jodi W. Dishman sentenced Williams to serve 40 months in federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release on each count when his prison terms ends.  In announcing the sentence, Judge Dishman noted the nature and circumstances of the offense and the need for the sentence to reflect the seriousness of the offense.  Williams has been in custody since his arrest on March 2, 2020.

This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Oklahoma City Field Division, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Dallas Field Division, and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, the U.S. Department of State, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Edmond Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matt Dillon and Mark Stoneman prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, JORDAN GLEN YOUNG, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty to wire fraud and signing a false federal income tax return, in connection with a $2.3 million embezzlement from an Oklahoma City trust bank, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester.

On December 21, 2020, Young was charged by Information with one count of wire fraud and one count of filing a false federal income tax return.  From 2006 through March 2020, Young worked at an Oklahoma City trust bank as a Trust Administrative Officer.  Young oversaw trust accounts and distributed funds from those accounts to the beneficiaries as needed. 

On February 22, 2021, Young pleaded guilty to making an unauthorized distribution, in the amount of $60,706.53, to his personal checking account from a trust account he was managing in October 2018.  As part of his plea, Young admitted that he embezzled funds from his former employer from December 2015 through March 2020, and stipulated that the total loss to the trust bank from his embezzlement scheme was $2,323,036.91. 

In addition to wire fraud, Young also pleaded guilty to signing a false federal income tax return.  He admitted that on April 15, 2019, he signed a personal federal income tax return for the 2018 calendar year that he knew was false because it reported only $114,439 in total income.  At the plea hearing, Young admitted that he omitted on the 2018 tax return thousands of dollars of embezzled income from the trust bank. 

At sentencing, Young faces up to 20 years in federal prison on the wire fraud count, plus three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.  Young also faces up to three years in federal prison on the tax count, in addition to one year of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine.  As part of the plea agreement, Young agreed to pay restitution to the trust bank in the amount of $2,323,036.91, and he agreed to pay restitution for tax loss to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $500,822.  Young will be sentenced in approximately 90 days. 

This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bow Bottomly and Chris M. Stephens. 

Reference is made to the information and other public filings for further information.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Yesterday, WILSON GRAMAJO-MALDONADO, 30, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to serve 27 years in federal prison for child sex trafficking, announced United States Attorney Timothy J. Downing.  In a related case, on October 21, 2020, ERI LEONARDO CIFUENTES-LOPEZ, 40, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced to more than 24 years in prison related to the sex trafficking of the same children.  Public records reflect both men paid to have sex with a 14-year-old girl and a 15-year-old girl.

On August 28, 2019, Gramajo-Maldonado entered a guilty plea to one count of child sex trafficking of the two girls between June 2018 and January 18, 2019, in Oklahoma City.  Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Charles B. Goodwin sentenced Gramajo-Maldonado to 27 years in prison, to be followed with five years of supervised release.  He also imposed $5,100 in special assessments and indicated restitution will be determined as a subsequent hearing.  Judge Goodwin explained that Gramajo-Maldonado encountered the two children, who lived in squalor and frequently went days without food, and instead of helping them, he harmed them and forcibly raped them, in addition to paying for sex with them.  The judge noted that Gramajo-Maldonado’s conduct was reprehensible.

On March 9, 2020, Cifuentes-Lopez entered a guilty plea to all three counts of an Indictment against him.  Counts 1 and 2 alleged Cifuentes-Lopez obtained, solicited, and patronized the two children for commercial sex acts from January 2018 to January 18, 2019.  According to court documents, Eri Cifuentes-Lopez repeatedly took advantage of the two vulnerable girls in dire circumstances, exploiting their basic needs for food, shelter, and money, by giving them cash to have sex with him, including after giving them drugs.  Count 3 charged Cifuentes-Lopez with illegally re-entering the United States after he was removed from the country on November 2, 2005.  Cifuentes-Lopez was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations after a traffic stop on November 20, 2019, and has been in federal custody since that time.  On October 21, 2020, Judge Goodwin sentenced Cifuentes-Lopez to 292 months in prison, to be followed with five years of supervised release.  He also imposed $10,300 in special assessments and indicated restitution will be determined as a subsequent hearing.

Upon their release from prison, both men will be required to register as sex offenders.

These sentences are the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Division, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, and the Oklahoma City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys K. McKenzie Anderson and Mary E. Walters prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.  

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, United States Attorney Timothy J. Downing announced that he has submitted his resignation to the President, to be effective at 11:59 p.m. on February 28, 2021.  He will announce at a later time his future plans.

United States Attorney Downing was sworn into office on June 5, 2019, after being appointed by President Trump and confirmed by the United States Senate.  As the United States Attorney, Mr. Downing served as the chief federal law enforcement officer in the Western District of Oklahoma.  In this capacity, he has been responsible for all federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation involving the United States in the district.  The Western District of Oklahoma is the largest of three judicial districts in Oklahoma and includes 40 of the 77 counties.

During his tenure as United States Attorney, Downing served on multiple Attorney General’s Advisory Committee Subcommittees and Working Groups, including those related to Terrorism and National Security, Border Protection and Immigration, Domestic Violence, and Native American Issues.

As United States Attorney, Downing focused on building strong partnerships with state, local, tribal, and federal law enforcement. "I wish everyone had an opportunity to witness as I did their fellow heroic Oklahomans who serve in law enforcement and protect our families and neighborhoods every single day," said Downing.  "Law enforcement partnerships are stronger today than ever before, and we have seen the positive impact it has had on public safety in our communities and district."

During Downing’s tenure, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District prosecuted the most defendants in the history of the office, including the most defendants charged with violent crimes.  "The men and women who serve in this office are incredible public servants who support our law enforcement, fight for victims, protect public safety, and secure the rule of law that is necessary to freedom and liberty for all," said Downing.  "I will always cherish this time of service as United States Attorney, and I take joy to know the Western District continues in great hands with the amazing attorneys and support staff here."

Downing was the 25th presidentially appointed United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma since statehood.  "I am thankful to President Trump, Senator James Inhofe, Senator James Lankford, and other members of the United States Senate for the opportunity to serve the people of Oklahoma as United States Attorney," said Downing.

Prior to his appointment as United States Attorney in 2019, Downing served as Counselor to the Oklahoma Secretary of State.  From 2016 to 2018, he served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, where he was an Assistant Majority Floor Leader, an Assistant Majority Whip, and Vice-Chair of the Judiciary Committee.  From 2011 to 2016, Downing was an Assistant Attorney General for the State Oklahoma, where he represented the State in criminal appeals, was a member of the Opinion Conference, and was Director of Legislative Affairs.

Since 2011, Downing has served as a Judge Advocate in the United States Army Reserve.  In this capacity from 2013 to 2014, he served as a Special Assistant United States Attorney at Fort Hood, Texas, working with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Texas.  From 2009 to 2011, he was a Senior Law Clerk for Jay Sekulow at the American Center for Law and Justice, and in 2009 he served as a Legal Fellow for United States Senator James Inhofe.  He is a graduate of the University of Oklahoma, Oral Roberts University, and Regent University School of Law.  He and his wife Lan have been married for nineteen years and have four children.

After Downing’s resignation on February 28, 2021, First Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. Troester will become the Acting United States Attorney by operation of law under the Vacancies Reform Act.  "Bob has led this office during three prior interim periods, he did an incredible job as my First Assistant, and there is no one better for this transition," said Downing.  "I will continue to give my best to this office until the last second on the job, and I commit to praying for and have every confidence in the future success of this office under the leadership of those who follow me."

To download a photo of United States Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, BRANDON SCOTT NEWBERRY, 39, of Guthrie, was sentenced to serve 169 months in federal prison for bank robbery, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing. 

On June 3, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a one-count Indictment charging Newberry with the robbery of City National Bank and Trust, located in Oklahoma City.  

According to court documents and public record, Newberry entered the bank on May 12, 2020.  He then handed the teller a demand note, which included a warning that Newberry was armed.  In response, the teller provided cash to Newberry.  Later that day, Newberry was arrested after he surrendered to local law enforcement.  Law enforcement recovered at the time of his arrest most of the stolen money.

On August 19, 2020, Newberry pleaded guilty to the Indictment.

On February 4, 2021, U.S. District Judge Scott L. Palk sentenced Newberry to serve 169 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.  Judge Palk also ordered Newberry to pay $770 in restitution, representing the amount of stolen money not recovered by law enforcement.  At the sentencing hearing, Judge Palk noted Newberry’s continued propensity to engage in criminal activity despite his prior felony convictions, including convictions of murder and robbery.

This case resulted from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Division, with assistance from the Midwest City Police Department and the Oklahoma City Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan West prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Over the past week, DR. JAMES FERRIS, 47, of Midwest City, KATHERINE DOSSEY, 61, of Luther, and SHERRY ISBELL, 50, of Chandler, were sentenced for their respective roles in the unlawful distribution of controlled substances and corresponding health care fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing. 

On June 20, 2018, a federal grand jury returned a 103-count Indictment charging Ferris, Dossey and Isbell with crimes related to the distribution of controlled prescription drugs using invalid medical prescriptions and the subsequent fraudulent billings of Medicare for those prescriptions.  According to the Indictment, Isbell was the owner of Physicians at Home and the Mid-Oklahoma Medical Access Clinic, both located in Wellston, Oklahoma.  Ferris was a physician employed by Physicians at Home.  Dossey was a licensed pharmacist who owned a retail pharmacy located in the same building as the clinic.  

From September 2015 through December 2015, Isbell, Dossey and Ferris allegedly conspired to dispense prescription controlled substances, including opioids such as hydrocodone, morphine, and fentanyl.  In furtherance of the conspiracy, Ferris provided Dossey with stacks of pre-signed, blank prescription pads.  Isbell provided Dossey with access to patient records, allowing Dossey to prepare invalid prescription refills utilizing the pre-signed prescription pads.

The Indictment further alleged that Isbell, Dossey and Ferris conspired to commit health care fraud in connection with these pre-signed prescriptions.  Due to the unlawful nature of the prescriptions, any claim for reimbursement to Medicare was a false claim for payment.

On January 26, 2021, Ferris pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl without a valid prescription and one count of health care fraud.  In the same court proceeding, Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy DeGiusti sentenced Ferris to 42 months’ probation.  Pursuant to the terms of his plea agreement, Ferris agreed to surrender his license to practice medicine in Oklahoma and would not apply for a medical license in Oklahoma for a period of three years from the date of surrender.

On November 27, 2019, Dossey pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud.  On January 27, 2021, Judge DeGiusti sentenced Dossey to 54 months’ probation.  Pursuant to the terms of her plea agreement, Dossey agreed to surrender her Oklahoma pharmacy license and further agreed that she would never reapply for that license.

On July 30, 2019, Isbell pleaded guilty to one count of health care fraud.  On February 3, 2021, Judge DeGiusti sentenced Isbell to 24 months’ probation.

Judge DeGiusti additionally ordered Ferris, Dossey and Isbell to pay restitution to the Center for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) in the amount of $53,468.74, as well as to the Oklahoma Medicaid Fraud Control Unit in the amount of $20,301.51.  This restitution was ordered to be paid jointly and severally among the defendants, representing the monetary amount Medicare unknowingly reimbursed for the unlawful prescriptions. 

"The tragic consequences of opioid abuse are an ongoing problem in our Oklahoma communities," said U.S. Attorney Downing.  "These criminal convictions send a clear message that those given the power to prescribe controlled substances will be held to high standards of ethical and professional behavior in accordance with the law."

This prosecution was the product of a multi-year investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Division, and the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of the Inspector General.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Snyder prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – Last week, KEVIN VIGIL JR., 29, of Oklahoma City, and a member of the Southside Locos gang currently incarcerated in state prison, was sentenced to serve an additional 250 months in federal prison for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing. 

On December 4, 2019, a federal grand jury returned an 81-count Indictment charging Vigil and dozens of co-defendants with crimes related to a large-scale drug trafficking operation orchestrated from state prison.  According to the Indictment, the operation primarily focused on distributing methamphetamine and heroin, using contraband cell phones from prison. 

On July 29, 2020, Vigil pleaded guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment, alleging a drug conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.  The remaining counts of the Indictment pertaining to Vigil were dismissed pursuant to his guilty plea.

According to court documents and public records, Vigil is a member of the Southside Locos prison gang serving an 18-year sentence with the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for several offenses, including assault and battery with a deadly weapon, following his shooting of a man in Oklahoma City in 2010.  From 2018 to 2019, Vigil and other incarcerated Southside Locos gang members used non-incarcerated gang members and associates to facilitate the distribution of drugs, to collect drug-related proceeds, and to traffic firearms throughout Oklahoma.

On January 26, 2021, Senior U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot sentenced Vigil to serve 250 months in federal prison beginning after the completion of his time in state prison, which is currently scheduled to end in March 2026.  Judge Friot also ordered 25 years of supervised release to follow the completion of Vigil's federal prison term.  At the sentencing hearing, Judge Friot noted Vigil’s role in the gang organization and his continued propensity to engage in criminal activity despite incarceration.  Vigil is the first defendant to be sentenced from this Indictment.

This case resulted from a nearly two-year investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Oklahoma City Field Division, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections—Security Threats Intelligence.  The investigation ultimately led to the federal indictments of more than 40 defendants related to this drug trafficking enterprise.  Thirty-five defendants have already pleaded guilty, and five defendants are still awaiting trial or plea hearings due to this investigation.

This prosecution is also a part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Harley and David McCrary prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, RAMON DOMINQUEZ, 46, currently incarcerated in an Oklahoma prison, and STEPHANIE SOLIZ, 46, of Oklahoma City, pleaded guilty to a drug distribution conspiracy involving methamphetamine and heroin, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

According to court documents and public records, Dominquez was a member of the Southside Locos prison gang serving a life sentence in the Oklahoma Department of Corrections for a previous conviction for First Degree Murder, in addition to sentences for other offenses.  Leaders of the Southside Locos prison gang, including Dominquez, orchestrated a large-scale drug-trafficking operation, primarily focused on distribution of methamphetamine and heroin, using contraband cell phones from prison.

As a non-incarcerated member of the conspiracy, Dominquez’s wife and co-defendant, Soliz, served as Dominquez’s de facto presence on the street.  In addition to delivering drugs, Soliz collected proceeds from drug debts and sales, storing the money for future drug-trafficking and protecting the Southside Loco’s drug-related assets.

On January 4, 2021, Dominquez pleaded guilty to his involvement in the drug trafficking conspiracy.  On January 6, 2021, Soliz also pleaded guilty to her involvement in the drug trafficking conspiracy.

At sentencing, which is anticipated to take place in about 90 days, Dominquez faces a maximum penalty of life in a federal prison or a fine of up to $10,000,000, or both, in addition to a term of supervised release for five years.  Soliz faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in federal prison or a fine of $1,000,000, or both, in addition to a term of supervised release for three years.

These charges are the result of a nearly two-year investigation by the Oklahoma City Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Oklahoma Department of Corrections—Security Threats Intelligence that ultimately led to the federal indictments of more than 40 defendants related to this drug trafficking enterprise.  Thirty-four defendants have already pleaded guilty, and six defendants are still awaiting trial or plea hearings.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Harley and David McCrary are prosecuting the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma collected $11,900,775.79 in civil and criminal actions in the fiscal year that ended on September 30, 2020, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.  Of this amount, the office collected $8,954,620.22 in civil actions and $2,946,155.57 in criminal actions.

The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Justice Department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the United States 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 Justice Department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.

The Justice Department, as a whole, collected more than $15.9 billion in civil and criminal actions in fiscal year (FY) 2020, ending September 30, 2020.  The $15,988,516,670 in collections in FY2020 represents more than five times the approximately $3.2 billion appropriated budget for the 94 U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the main litigating divisions of the Justice Department combined in that same period.  The total includes all monies collected as a result of Justice Department-led enforcement actions and negotiated civil settlements.  It includes more than $13.5 billion in payments made directly to the Justice Department, and more than $2.4 billion in indirect payments made to other federal agencies, states, and other designated recipients.

"Recovering money for victims in criminal cases and the return of taxpayer funds in civil cases are foundational elements of our pursuit of justice," said U.S. Attorney Downing.  "The collections of fiscal year 2020 speak to the tremendous work of the women and men in my office and the dedication of our Financial Litigation Unit."

Highlights of the Western District of Oklahoma’s FY2020 collection efforts include:

• A $3 million civil settlement in December 2019 with LaForge & Budd Construction Company, Inc. in a dispute over alleged false claims for progress payments for work done in 2010 on the Lake George dam embankment at the Fort Sill Army Post in Lawton, Oklahoma.
• $2.8 million recovered in June 2020 from Tulsa -based contractor Ross Group Construction Corporation on claims they fraudulently obtained federal set-aside contracts reserved for disadvantaged small businesses.
• $488,491 recovered from a Texas oil and gas company, EnerVest Operating, L.L.C., for trespass claims arising from unapproved drilling, extraction, and selling of federal minerals.
• $110,490 in criminal restitution was collected in July 2020 from Ricky Erwin from proceeds he was entitled in a 2019 wrongful death case. Erwin was convicted in 2016 of tax evasion.
• A $70,000 Controlled Substances Act settlement in March 2020 with Floyd Smith, M.D., an anesthesiologist who practices in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma.  The United States alleged that Dr. Smith issued prescriptions for controlled substances to family members in violation of state law, without maintaining medical files on the family members, and for no apparent medical purpose. 

Those examples do not include additional recoveries from cases worked jointly with other Justice Department components.  For instance, working jointly with colleagues in the Justice Department’s Civil Fraud section, the Western District of Oklahoma recovered $72.3 million in July 2020 to resolve health care kickback claims against Oklahoma Center for Orthopaedic and Multi-Specialty Surgery, a specialty hospital in Oklahoma City, its part-owner and management company, USP OKC, Inc. and USP OKC Manager, Inc., and Southwest Orthopaedic Specialists, PLLC (SOS), an Oklahoma City-based physician group.  This is the second largest recovery in Western District of Oklahoma history.

Additionally, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma deposited $1,184,508 into the Justice Department’s Asset Forfeiture Fund in FY2020.  This amount does not include proceeds from assets forfeited in 2020 that have yet to be sold.  Many forfeited assets are returned to victims of crime.  When that is not possible, forfeiture proceeds are deposited into a centralized fund and used to assist crime victims across the nation and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.

To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Christopher Steven Ledbetter, 29, of McLoud, Oklahoma, has been sentenced to serve 57 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of a fully automatic machinegun, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing. 

According to court records and proceedings, in March 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) learned that Ledbetter might be in possession of a fully automatic machinegun.  FBI then reviewed publicly available materials on the internet associated with Ledbetter that depicted Ledbetter on multiple occasions shooting what appeared to be a fully automatic machinegun and threatening law enforcement.  On June 4, 2020, FBI encountered Ledbetter in Oklahoma City. In his vehicle, FBI discovered a fully automatic AK-47 style carbine machinegun.  FBI also executed a search warrant at Ledbetter’s residence in McLoud.  FBI located two homemade grenades, two homemade Molotov Cocktails, and stolen firearms.  Ledbetter was arrested without incident and charged with unlawfully possessing a fully automatic machinegun.  Ledbetter was interviewed by FBI and fully confessed to his conduct.

Federal law prohibits the possession of a fully automatic machinegun as defined in the National Firearms Act, except under limited circumstances.  The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) searched its federal licensing system and determined that Ledbetter did not have the required licenses to possess a machinegun. 

On June 26, 2020, Ledbetter pleaded guilty to possessing the automatic machinegun in violation of federal law. 

On December 17, 2020, U.S. District Judge Charles B. Goodwin sentenced Ledbetter to 57 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.  In imposing the sentence, Judge Goodwin noted the nature and circumstances of Ledbetter’s conduct leading to his arrest, including reckless endangerment and the attempted evasion of McLoud police.

"The successful prosecution of this case demonstrates that those who put our communities at risk, especially through the unlawful possession of firearms, will be held accountable," said U.S. Attorney Downing.  "It also emphasizes the strength of law enforcement collaboration.  We are grateful to all those agencies who were invested in bringing Ledbetter to justice."

"The success of this case is a direct result of law enforcement agencies working together in the state of Oklahoma to target threats to the safety and well-being of our citizens," said Melissa Godbold, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Oklahoma City Division.  "The people of Oklahoma deserve this collective effort, and I want to thank our law enforcement partners for helping to keep our communities safe."

This case is a result of an investigation by the FBI Oklahoma City Division, the ATF Dallas Field Division, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Oklahoma City Police Department, the McLoud Police Department and the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matt Dillon and Jessica Perry prosecuted the case. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – JOSHUA DECKER, 36, of Edmond, has been charged with 35 counts of conspiracy and theft, downloading, transmission, and possession of trade secrets, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On December 15, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a 35-count Indictment against Decker.  According to the Indictment, Decker was a controller in an oil and gas company that serves customers engaged in drilling and production.  Headquartered in Oklahoma City, the company manufactures compact manifold ball valves in 1", 2", 3", and 4" varieties, which are sold across the United States.  In March 2017, while employed as the controller at the company, Decker registered a new company with the Oklahoma Secretary of State, Legacy Valve Systems ("Legacy").  He then recruited co-workers at the victim company to join him at Legacy.  

It is alleged that in April and May 2017, Decker conspired to steal numerous trade secrets from the victim company.  Specifically, the Indictment alleges Decker and others acting at his direction downloaded the technical drawings, material specifications, manufacturing instructions, assembly instructions, and quality assurance procedures for the victim company’s 1", 2", and 3" valves, and Decker transmitted the victim company’s detailed financial information—including cost information and sales by product and customer—by email to himself.  It is alleged that Decker then provided the victim company’s drawings to an individual who copied them and replaced the victim company’s logo with a Legacy logo to begin manufacturing and selling valves to compete with the victim company.  Decker then allegedly directed others to delete all their text messages and files, including messages on an encrypted application, to conceal their theft from the victim company.

Count 1 charges Decker with conspiracy to commit theft of trade secrets.  Counts 2-35 charge him with downloading, transmitting, and possessing trade secrets.  The trade secrets are alleged to be specific drawings and financial records which were treated as confidential and protected by the company, and each of which had independent economic value to a competitor like Legacy.  If convicted of any of Counts 1-35, Decker faces up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000.00 fine, or twice the gross gain from the offense or twice the gross loss to the victim company.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney K. McKenzie Anderson.

The public is reminded these charges are merely accusations and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.  Reference is made to court filings for further information.  Attached is the Indictment the federal grand jury returned in this matter.

To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

An Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, man was sentenced today to 60 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release in the Western District of Oklahoma for assaulting two neighbors inside their apartment in Okinawa, Japan, while working for the U.S. Armed Forces overseas as a civilian engineer. 

Brendan Rowin Figuly, 31, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones for two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury.

Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing of the Western District of Oklahoma, and Air Force Office of Special Investigations Commander Brigadier General Terry L. Bullard, made the announcement.  

According to admissions during the plea hearing, Figuly was living in Okinawa, Japan, and working for the U.S. Armed Forces as a civilian engineer at Kadena Air Force Base.  On April 11, 2020, Figuly was living in a multi-unit apartment building off-base.  That afternoon, he entered the apartment of a female neighbor, E.M., armed with a box cutter knife, and demanded to know the whereabouts of their landlord.  Figuly stated he wanted to kill the landlord, but instead attacked E.M., strangling her until she fell unconscious, cutting her fingers with a knife, and striking her in the face with a baking dish.  When she regained consciousness, E.M. fled to her apartment balcony, and Figuly pursued her, breaking the balcony door in the process.  E.M.’s husband J.M. then entered the apartment, at which point Figuly threatened to kill J.M.  Figuly also assaulted J.M. with the box cutter knife, before J.M. and a neighbor could subdue him.    

The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Air Force Office of Special Investigations.  The prosecution was handled by Trial Attorney Mona Sahaf of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Harley of the Western District of Oklahoma.  

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice.  Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

OKLAHOMA CITY – JORGE LOUIS VILLARREAL, 41, of Texas, RICHARD CLINTON POND, 49, of Oklahoma City, and COREY LEE JUMP, 50, of Tecumseh, Oklahoma, have been charged with conspiring to deal firearms without a license, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On November 2, 2020, a Criminal Complaint was filed against Villarreal following the discovery of illegal firearms recovered in Mexico.  The resulting investigation determined the firearms were originally purchased in Oklahoma. 

On December 2, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a sealed seven-count Indictment charging Villarreal, Pond, and Jump with conspiracy to deal firearms without a license.  According to the Indictment, between March 23, 2020, and October 31, 2020, Pond and Jump purchased firearms with the intent to sell them to Villarreal for profit.  It is alleged that once Pond and Jump obtained the firearms, Villarreal traveled from Texas to Oklahoma to purchase the firearms from his co-defendants, which he subsequently resold in Texas and Mexico. 

In addition to the Count 1 conspiracy charge, Count 2 charges Jump with unlawful dealing in firearms, Count 3 charges Pond with giving a false statement to acquire a firearm, Counts 4 and 7 charge Villarreal with traveling interstate to deal firearms without a license, Count 5 charges Pond with unlawful sale of a firearm to an out-of-state resident, and Count 6 charges Jump with giving false statements to an ATF agent during the investigation.  The Indictment also seeks forfeiture of 117 specific firearms and seeks that Villarreal forfeit $44,881 in cash. 

On December 4, 2020, the Indictment was unsealed following the arrest of the defendants. 

If the defendants are found guilty, Counts 1, 2, 3, and 6 may result in a sentence of up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release.  Counts 4, 5, and 7 may result in a sentence up to ten years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to three years supervised release. 

This case is a result of an investigation by the ATF Oklahoma City Field Office with the assistance of the ATF McAllen, Texas Field Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Altshuler, Wilson McGarry, and Stan West are prosecuting the case. 

The public is reminded that these charges are merely allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. 

Reference is made to public filings for more information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here. 

OKLAHOMA CITY – WILLIAM STANLEY, 59, of Massachusetts, an inmate at the Federal Transfer Center, has been sentenced to serve 78 additional months in federal prison for the assault of a Federal Bureau of Prisons officer causing bodily injury, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

While an inmate at the Federal Transfer Center in Oklahoma City, Stanley kicked a correctional officer in the leg while the officer was escorting Stanley to the Special Housing Unit.  The assault resulted in injury to the officer’s right hip, ultimately requiring a total right hip replacement.

On August 20, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a one-count Indictment charging Stanley with assault on a federal officer causing bodily injury.  On January 13, 2020, Stanley pled guilty to the charges of the Indictment.

On November 30, 2020, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Stanley to serve 78 months (6.5 years) to run consecutively to his ongoing prison term, followed by three years of supervised release.  In imposing the sentence, Judge Wyrick noted Stanley’s history of violence within the federal prison system and his previous assault convictions in Massachusetts.

This case is the result of investigations by the FBI and the Federal Bureau of Prisons.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Altshuler prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, COLBY SCOTT SHEPHERD, 37, of Elk City, and a member of the Universal Aryan Brotherhood (UAB) currently incarcerated in an Oklahoma prison on a state conviction, was sentenced to serve 300 months in federal prison for his involvement in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On February 19, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a three-count Indictment charging Shepherd with a drug conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.  On September 13, 2019, Shepherd pled guilty to Count 2 of the Indictment alleging a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

According to court documents and public records, Shepherd was a member of the UAB incarcerated in an Oklahoma prison serving time for multiple state convictions arising out of Beckham, Custer, and Oklahoma Counties.  Despite being incarcerated, Shepherd and other members of the UAB orchestrated a drug-trafficking operation, primarily focused on the distribution of methamphetamine, using contraband cell phones.  Shepherd and his associates used other non-incarcerated members and contacts of the UAB to facilitate the distribution of methamphetamine and collection of drug proceeds throughout Western Oklahoma. 

Ultimately in November 2018, Shepherd coordinated a series of narcotics transactions with an undercover officer.  During the final transaction, Shepherd coordinated a delivery in Oklahoma City for pounds of methamphetamine but law enforcement intercepted his associate Michael Lee Chism with the narcotics and a firearm at the delivery location.  

On November 30, 2020, U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot sentenced Shepherd to serve 300 months (25 years) in federal prison beginning only after he completes all the remaining time of incarceration for his state cases.  He was also ordered to serve five years of supervised release after he completes his federal prison term.  At the sentencing hearing, Judge Friot commented on Shepherd’s continued propensity to engage in criminal activity and lack of deterrence despite being incarcerated as reasoning for the necessity of the lengthy sentence.   

Shepherd’s codefendant in this case, Michael Lee Chism, previously pled guilty to possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, along with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.  On May 29, 2020 he was sentenced to serve 60 months (5 years) in federal prison.

"I hope Universal Aryan Brotherhood members take note of this federal sentence as they continue their dangerous gang activities from state prison and conspire to distribute drugs in our state," said U.S. Attorney Downing.  "This case is another reminder that contraband cell phones in our prisons remain a major public safety issue and our office will continue to vigorously pursue criminals who continue to distribute drugs in our state even after they are incarcerated."

"This lengthy prison sentence of a drug dealing gang member should send a clear message to both criminals and law abiding citizens that Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) will never relent in our efforts to hold criminals accountable while protecting the general public," said Ryan L. Spradlin, special agent in charge HSI Dallas.  "This felon’s attempt to sustain his illegal drug dealing business while incarcerated highlights the distance he went for personal gain.  This result serves as a stark reminder that HSI’s reach has no limits."

This case was the result of an investigation by the U.S. Homeland Security Investigations, the Oklahoma Department of Corrections—Security Threats Intelligence, and the Oklahoma District Attorney’s Drug Task Force for District 2.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jason Harley and Nicholas J. Patterson prosecuted the case. 

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – ISHMAEL FARRAKAN MUHAMMAD, a.k.a. Mike Rodgers, a.k.a. Dewayne Robinson, 32, of Stillwater, has been sentenced to serve 110 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of a felony crime, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On May 4, 2018, Muhammad was arrested while in possession of a .22 caliber handgun and a sawed-off shotgun, each with the serial number obstructed, in addition to ammunition.  On September 3, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a three-count Indictment that alleged illegal possession of firearms, illegal possession of an unregistered firearm, and illegal possession of ammunition.  On November 1, 2019, Muhammad pled guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment that charged him with possession the .22 caliber handgun while being a convicted felon.

On November 30, 2020, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Muhammad to serve 110 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release.

This case is the result of investigations by the FBI, ATF and the Stillwater Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary E. Walters prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, MICHAEL LEE OLIVER, 33, of Lawton, was sentenced to serve nine months in federal prison for illegally possessing ammunition after having been previously convicted of a felony crime stemming from his serial theft of ammunition from local retail stores, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On March 17, 2020, Oliver was arrested for stealing 16 boxes of ammunition, or more than 700 rounds of ammunition, from a local sporting goods store.  On August 5, 2020, Oliver pled guilty to shoplifting ammunition multiple times a week from various sporting goods locations.

Today, Senior U.S. District Judge Robin J. Cauthron sentenced Oliver to serve nine months in federal prison for illegal possession of ammunition after a prior felony conviction. Judge Cauthron also imposed a three year term of supervised release following Oliver’s release from prison.

This case is the result of investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Edmond Police Department.  Assistant United States Attorney Wilson D. McGarry prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – VERNON WAYNE BROCK, 71, of Alva, has been sentenced today to serve 87 months in federal prison and pay a $30,000 fine for hiring an individual to commit murder on the defendant’s behalf, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On April 17, 2019, Brock was indicted with using interstate commerce facilities to commit murder-for-hire. On November 6, 2019, Brock pled guilty to the one-count indictment, admitting to the use of interstate facilities with intent that murder be committed in exchange for payment.

According to court documents and public record, an individual from Kansas, whom Brock was trying to hire to commit murder, contacted the FBI and cooperated in the investigation.  Law enforcement determined Brock was upset with a former employee who refused to continue a sexual relationship with him.  Brock wanted the individual from Kansas to arrange the murder of the former employee’s boyfriend in Oklahoma City in exchange for $5,000.  He identified the boyfriend by sending a picture to the individual from Kansas.  FBI agents arrested Brock on the afternoon of April 3, with the assistance of the Woods County Sheriff’s Office, after Brock delivered a $5,000 check to the individual from Kansas.

Today, U.S. District Judge David L. Russell sentenced Brock to serve 87 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release. In addition, Brock was ordered to pay a $30,000 fine.

This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation–Oklahoma City Field Office, Woodward Resident Agency.  Prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashely Altshuler and Jason Harley, the case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions.  As part of this strategy, PSN focuses on the most violent offenders and partners with local prevention and re-entry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Reference is made to public filings for more information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier this week, LAURA R. JOHNSON, 45, THOMAS JOHNSON, SR., 52, and CHERYL M. ASHLEY, 70, all residents of Oklahoma City, have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud in a conspiracy to take ownership of more than a dozen homes without the consent or knowledge of the actual owners, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

According to filed charges, the defendants used fraudulent documents from 2014 until 2019 to obtain title to homes and other properties.  A number of properties the defendants targeted had delinquent property taxes and therefore were subject to being auctioned by the Oklahoma County Treasurer’s Office.  By paying off one or more years of back taxes, the defendants caused the properties to be removed from the county tax auction.  The defendants then filed fraudulent warranty deeds to transfer properties into the names of fictitious companies and individuals.  The conspiracy also included fraudulent confidential stamp tax affidavits and fake mortgages, all of which contained forged notary signatures and seals.

Some homeowners vacated their homes based on phony eviction notices.  When certain victims fought the takeover of their homes in court, the defendants filed pleadings with the names of fictitious lawyers and submitted affidavits in court signed by fictitious people.

The defendants targeted one home that had been owned by a woman who died in 2012.  After they gained control of the decedent’s property, the defendants used bank records they found in the home and forged a power of attorney to lie to the bank in an attempt to withdraw more than $100,000 from the decedent’s bank account.  When that attempt failed, the conspirators attempted to steal money by writing forged checks on the decedent’s account and causing electronic transfers out of the account for their personal benefit.  They also filed a false will in Oklahoma County District Court after the woman’s nephew learned of the death and filed a probate action.  Based on fraudulent information, the court appointed Laura Johnson as the personal representative of the estate, which enabled her to withdraw $63,950 from the decedent’s bank accounts and obtain $45,000 from her oil and gas interests.

On November 17, 2020, each defendant pleaded guilty to a single count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.

At sentencing, which is anticipated to take place in about 90 days, defendants Thomas Johnson Sr., and Cheryl Ashely face a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison or a fine of no more than $250,000, or both, in addition to a term of supervised release of three years.  Defendant Laura Johnson, faces a maximum penalty of thirty years in federal prison or a fine of $1,000,000, or both, in addition to a term of supervised release of five years.

These charges are the result of an investigation by the United States Secret Service and the Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kerry A. Kelly and Jessica L. Perry are prosecuting the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, a federal jury convicted ISAIAH WHITEFOX REDBIRD, 34, of Carnegie, Oklahoma, of premeditated murder and assault causing serious bodily injury, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

According to facts presented at trial, Redbird bore a grudge against Byron "Subee" Tongkeamah, Jr., and his girlfriend, Kayleigh Roughface, who, at the time, were homeless Indian residents of Carnegie. On the night of September 11, 2018, Redbird entered an enclosed porch of an abandoned house where Tongkeamah Jr. and Roughface had taken refuge. He approached them where they were in bed on a foam mattress on the floor and struck each of them multiple times on the head with the crowbar. Tongkeamah Jr. died from multiple blunt force trauma injuries to his skull, which was shattered by the blows. Redbird fled the scene, buried the crowbar in the mud of the Washita River, burned and buried his clothes, and fled to Arizona.  Roughface survived, despite losing all memory of the night of the attack.

On the morning of September 12, 2018, Carnegie police discovered the disoriented Roughface, walking down the street in Carnegie. She was covered with dried blood and had massive trauma, including a fractured skull, a fractured eye socket, a broken arm, and a broken finger. Soon after that, officers discovered the body of Tongkeamah Jr. in the enclosed porch.

Audio-recordings of Redbird’s phone conversations revealed that he believed he had a duty to execute Tongkeamah Jr. and Roughface based on rumors he had heard about them. Multiple tribal members testified against Redbird. At trial, Redbird claimed there had been an altercation in the carport, and he acted in self-defense.

The federal government has jurisdiction over the offense because Redbird is a Kiowa Indian, and the offense occurred in Indian country.

After deliberating for two days, the federal jury returned a guilty verdict, convicting Redbird of premeditated murder of Tongkeamah and assault causing serious bodily injury of Roughface.

At sentencing, which will be set by the Court in approximately three months, Redbird will receive mandatory life in federal prison without parole. 

This case is a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Carnegie Police Department, and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. The Regional Organized Crime Information Center and the Kiowa Tribe provided logistical assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Hale and Mark Stoneman are prosecuting the case.

Reference is made to public filings for more information. To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – DANTE DE LA CRUZ-ALVAREZ, 28, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced today to serve 132 months in prison for distributing methamphetamine and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On December 30, 2019, De La Cruz-Alvarez was arrested after a search of his vehicle at a traffic stop resulted in the seizure of 31 one-pound vacuum-sealed packages containing methamphetamine.

On January 21, 2020, a federal grand jury indicted De La Cruz-Alvarez for conspiracy and possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. On July 22, 2020, De La Cruz-Alvarez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine. Today, U.S. District Judge Bernard M. Jones sentenced De La Cruz-Alvarez to serve 132 months (11 years) in federal prison. At the end of his term, he must also serve five years of supervised release.  

This case is the result of investigations by District 21 Drug Task Force, Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.  Assistant United States Attorney Matthew P. Anderson prosecuted the case.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Kenneth Gene Morgan a/k/a Kenny Morgan, age 44, of Muskogee, Oklahoma entered a guilty plea to Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1341, punishable by not more than 20 years imprisonment, a fine up to $250,000.00, or both; and Tax Fraud, in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(1), punishable by not more than 3 years imprisonment, a fine up to $100,000.00, or both. 

The Information alleged that on or about February 15, 2017, for the purpose of executing or attempting to execute the above-described scheme and artifice to defraud and deprive, Morgan knowingly took and received from an authorized depository for mail an envelope, containing a check in the amount of $303,619.55, addressed to Direct Traffic Control, Inc. and Kenny Morgan. 

The Information further alleged that on or about April 15, 2018, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and elsewhere, the defendant, willfully made and subscribed a false 2017 Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return, which contained and was verified by a written declaration that it was made under the penalties of perjury, and which he did not believe to be true and correct as to every material matter, in that he knowingly reported Adjusted Gross Income of $176,564.00, whereas, he then and there knew that the Adjusted Gross Income failed to report approximately $208,563.35 of income. 

The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. 

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

Assistant United States Attorney Doug Horn represented the United States.
 

OKLAHOMA CITY – MARTAVIOUS ARNEZ GROSS, 23, of Lawton, Oklahoma, was sentenced today to serve 120 months in prison for possessing a firearm during a road rage incident on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike while subject to a domestic violence protective order, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On January 8, 2020, Gross was charged with possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective.  On March 10, 2020, he pled guilty to this offense.

According to court documents and public record, on December 11, 2019, Gross was riding in a vehicle driven by co-defendant, Nathan R. Rollins, Jr.  Rollins and Gross believed they were cut off by another driver on the turnpike and they caught up to the other vehicle.  Gross rolled down his window, yelled at the other driver, made obscene gestures, brandished a firearm for the driver of the other vehicle to see.  He then fired at the vehicle with the handgun.  In responding to a related 911 call, an Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper located Rollins’ vehicle, clocking in at 106 miles per hour.  After stopping the vehicle, the law enforcement found the handgun that was fired in the incident by Gross, an AR-15 rifle loaded with a high capacity magazine, two black masks, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.  Rollins and Gross were subsequently arrested. 

Today, Senior U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Gross to serve 120 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release.   In imposing the sentence, Judge Heaton noted the serious nature of the offense conduct and Gross’ significant history of violence against domestic partners and law enforcement officers.

Judge Heaton had previously sentenced co-defendant Rollins to serve 120 months in prison for illegal possession of a firearm after a prior felony conviction.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiatives to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  For more information about Project Guardian, please see the Attorney General’s announcement here.   The case is also part of "Operation 922," the district’s local implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian.  "Operation 922" prioritizes firearms prosecutions connected to domestic violence, including domestic violence abusers who possess a firearm and are subject to a victim protective order or have been previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

This case is the result of investigations by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations.  Assistant United States Attorney Wilson D. McGarry prosecuted the case.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, Timothy J. Downing, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma, highlighted the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 3, 2020, general election.  Each U.S. Attorney’s Office is responsible for handling complaints of election fraud and voting rights concerns in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

​U.S. Attorney Downing said, "Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud.  The Department of Justice will always act appropriately to protect the integrity of the election process.  The Department’s nationwide effort is important to give our nation peace of mind and confidence in each district.  It is also a great reminder to be thankful as Oklahomans that we have a safe and secure election process in our state."

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

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

To respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights concerns during the voting period that ends on November 3, 2020, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day.  The FBI’s Oklahoma City Field Office can be reached by the public at 405-290-7770.

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

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

​U.S. Attorney Downing said, "Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the cooperation of the American electorate.  It is imperative that those who have specific information about discrimination or election fraud make that information available to my office through the FBI, or the Civil Rights Division."

The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.

**END**

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, NATHAN R. ROLLINS, JR., 29, of Lawton, Oklahoma, was sentenced to serve 120 months in prison for possessing a firearm after a prior felony conviction, stemming from a road rage incident on the H.E. Bailey Turnpike in Lawton, Oklahoma, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

According to court records and proceedings, on December 11, 2019, Rollins was the driver of a vehicle with passenger and co-defendant, Martavious Gross.  When Rollins and Gross believed they were cut off by another driver on the turnpike, Gross rolled down his window, yelled at the other driver, made obscene gestures.  Rollins slowed down for a moment and then sped up to catch the other vehicle.  When they caught up to the other vehicle, Gross brandished a firearm for the driver of the other vehicle to see, and then fired at the vehicle with the handgun. 

In responding to a 911 call, an Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper located Rollins’ vehicle, clocking it at 106 miles per hour.  After stopping the vehicle, the Trooper found an AR-15 rifle loaded with a high capacity magazine, the handgun that was fired in the incident, two black masks, marijuana, and drug paraphernalia.  Rollins and Gross were then arrested. 

On January 8, 2020, Rollins was charged with possession of a firearm after a felony conviction.  On February 26, 2020, he pled guilty and admitted to unlawful possession of the AR-15 rifle.  Today, Senior U.S. District Judge Joe Heaton sentenced Rollins to serve 120 months in prison, the statutory maximum for the offense, followed by three years of supervised release.  In imposing the sentence, the Judge not only considered the serious nature of Rollins’ crime, but also his lengthy history of domestic violence, including a conviction in 2019 in Comanche County for domestic assault and battery by strangulation, and his history of abusing firearms.   The Judge concluded that a lengthy sentence was necessary to protect the public from Rollins’ escalating pattern of violent conduct.

On March 10, 2020, co-defendant Gross pled guilty to illegal possession of a firearm while being subject to a domestic violence protective order.  He is currently in custody and awaiting sentencing. 

This case is the result of an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol and the Department of Homeland Security Investigations.  Assistant United States Attorney Wilson D. McGarry prosecuted the case.

OKLAHOMA CITY – RODERICK GLENN HOUSTON, JR., 36, of Oklahoma City, has pleaded guilty to child sex trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On September 1, 2020, a federal grand jury returned a Superseding Indictment against Houston that charged him with child sex trafficking, production of child pornography, and transportation of child pornography.

Today, Houston pleaded guilty to child sex trafficking before Senior U.S. District Judge Stephen P. Friot.  According to public records and admissions made as part of his guilty plea, between April 2015 and March 9, 2016, Houston served as the pimp of a girl known as Jane Doe #1.  Houston placed advertisements for Jane Doe #1 as an escort on the internet, provided her to men for commercial sex, and kept the cash proceeds.  In spite of knowing that she was a child, he sold her to men for sex in Oklahoma, Florida, Louisiana, and Texas.

At sentencing, which will occur in approximately 90 days, Houston faces not less than 10 years and up to life in federal prison.  If sentenced to less than life, he will be required to comply with terms of supervised release for at least five years and up to life and be required to register as a sex offender.  Houston also faces a fine of up to $250,000 and could be ordered to pay restitution to Jane Doe #1.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation – Oklahoma City Field Office, the Oklahoma City Police Department, and the Los Angeles (California) Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Hale and McKenzie Anderson prosecuted the case.

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

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Department of Justice has issued grant awards of $1,199,047 to develop and improve systems to register and track sex offenders in the Western District of Oklahoma, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing. Awarded by the Department’s Office of Justice Programs, these grants help states, U.S. territories and tribal communities register and track sex offenders and enable them to meet the requirements of the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Funds also help maintain the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website.

"Citizens are better protected from sexual violence when jurisdictions follow SORNA’s standards," said OJP Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. "The Office of Justice Programs is committed to giving state, territory and tribal officials the resources they need to register and track sex offenders and prevent known threats in one community from posing new dangers to others."

OJP’s Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering and Tracking (SMART Office) is awarding approximately $16 million to jurisdictions across the country to develop and enhance programs designed to implement the provisions of SORNA. The SMART Office is awarding almost $800,000 to provide training and technical assistance to jurisdictions implementing SORNA standards. The U.S. Center for SafeSport will receive the $2.3 million Keep Young Athletes Safe grant to continue developing a comprehensive training and prevention program to prevent abuse in the athletic programs of the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Committee and related sports organizations. The SMART Office will award nearly $1 million to the Institute for Intergovernmental Research to support maintenance, operations and technological improvements for the Dru Sjodin National Sex Offender Public Website, NSOPW.gov, which links state, territorial and tribal public registry websites and allows the public to search for registered sex offenders on a national scale.

"The grants provided by the Department of Justice are invaluable in the defense against sexual predators," said U.S. Attorney Downing. "Our pursuit of justice is fueled by the resourcefulness and dedication of our national, state, local and tribal partnerships. We are honored to work alongside the dedicated members of law enforcement to continue to uphold and protect our communities from sex offenders."

"Our mission at the SMART Office is to help our state, tribal and territorial partners register and provide notification to the public of sex offenders within their jurisdictions," said Kendel Ehrlich, Director of the SMART Office. "We will continue to provide both law enforcement and the public with the tools they need to better inform and protect their communities and themselves."

The following WDOK organization and Tribes received funding:

• Cheyenne and Arapaho Tribes ($400,000)
• Oklahoma Department of Corrections ($399,047)
• Absentee Shawnee Tribe of Oklahoma ($400,000)

More information about OJP and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – William Don Dollarhide, 44, of Nardin, Oklahoma (Kay County), pleaded guilty today to producing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing. 

According to court documents and records, Dollarhide, who is a registered sex offender due to a prior Oklahoma state child pornography conviction, used his cell phone to film himself sexually abusing a 10-year-old girl in his recreational vehicle (RV) in September of 2018. The child’s mother called the Grant County Sheriff’s Department on May 12, 2019, reporting Dollarhide had assaulted the girl. Officers responded to Dollarhide’s residence and arrested him. Officers later searched his electronic devices under a search warrant and discovered photographs and videos of Dollarhide sexually abusing the girl as well as images of a naked girl he had produced with a hidden video camera.  

On June 16, 2020, a federal grand jury indicted Dollarhide with production of child pornography and possession of child pornography.

Today, Dollarhide pleaded guilty to production of child pornography before Judge Scott L. Palk. Due to his prior conviction, he faces not less than 25 years and up to 50 years in federal prison.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Grant County Sheriff’s Department, with forensic analysis assistance from the Enid Police Department and the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Hale prosecuted the case.

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

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Today, the Department of Justice announced it has charged more than 500 domestic violence cases involving firearms during Fiscal Year (FY) 2020. A Department priority since 2019 when Attorney General William P. Barr created the Department of Justice’s first ever-Domestic Violence Working Group, these charges are the result of the critical law enforcement partnership between United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, led by Acting Director Regina Lombardo, who has made domestic violence firearms-related investigations a priority.

"Keeping firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminal offenders is one of the Department of Justice’s top priorities," said Attorney General Barr. "This is especially important when it comes to individuals with prior domestic violence convictions. The statistics are clear that when domestic violence offenders have access to guns, their partners and their families are at much greater risk of falling victim to gun violence. In fact, in some communities across America, roughly half of the homicides are related to domestic violence. The Department of Justice is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of those who are prohibited from having them, and we will continue investigating and prosecuting all domestic violence firearms related crimes."

"According to the CDC, data suggests that about one in six homicide victims are killed by an intimate partner," said ATF Acting Director Lombardo. "Nearly half of female homicide victims in the U.S. are killed by a current or former male intimate partner. ATF is committed to aggressively pursuing prohibited possession of firearms due to domestic violence convictions and certain protective orders. It is another way we prevent violent gun crime within our communities."

"The safety of our neighborhoods depend foundationally on the safety of our homes," stated U.S. Attorney Downing. "Through 'Operation 922,' we join together the strength of federal prosecution with state, local, and tribal law enforcement on behalf of vulnerable members of our communities. Women and children who are subject to repeated abuse and violence deserve to be defended by those tasked with the ethical, vigorous, fair and impartial enforcement of the laws of the United States. Together, we work to counter the destructive presence of domestic violence in Oklahoma."

Under federal law, individuals with domestic violence misdemeanor and felony convictions, as well as individuals subject to domestic violence protective orders, are prohibited from possessing firearms. The data shows that offenders with domestic violence in their past pose a high risk of homicide. In fact, domestic violence abusers with a gun in the home are five times more likely to kill their partners.

Nationally

The Working Group, chaired by U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox, of the Northern District of Texas, disseminates legal guidance on keeping guns out of the hands of domestic violence abusers using three federal statutes:

• 18 USC § 922 (g)(1), felon in possession of a firearm
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(9), possession of a firearm by a prohibited person (misdemeanor crime of domestic violence)  
• 18 USC § 922 (g)(8), possession of a firearm while subject to a domestic violence protective order  

Based on the Working Group’s guidance, in FY 2020, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide brought 337 domestic violence felon-in-possession charges, 54 possession while subject to a protective order charges, and 142 possession by a prohibited person charges. 

 Western District of Oklahoma

 
The Western District of Oklahoma was one of the first districts in the nation to specifically target domestic violence when, in March of 2018, it launched "Operation 922" as its local implementation of the national Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative.  "Operation 922" specifically targets violent offenders who violate federal laws and have a history of domestic abuse, are subject to a victim protection order, have been previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence, or who were arrested by law enforcement in response to a domestic violence related call. 
 
Since March of 2018, a total of 124 domestic violence related-cases have been brought by the Western District of Oklahoma through "Operation 922."  These domestic violence related cases arose in 16 different counties across the Western District.

For more information on domestic violence or to get help, visit the National Domestic Violence Hotline website or call 1-800-799-SAFE (7233).
 
The year 2020 marks the 150th anniversary of the Department of Justice. Learn more about the history of our agency at www.Justice.gov/Celebrating150Years.
 
Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.
 

OKLAHOMA CITY – AREJAE GANGOB MEDINA, 26, of Pennsylvania, was sentenced today to serve 292 months in federal prison for child sexual enticement, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing. 

According to court documents, Medina met online a 13-year-old girl from the OKC metro area, the pair exchanged pornographic images of themselves, and Medina ultimately traveled cross-country to the OKC metro area, where he engaged in video-recorded sexual intercourse with the girl. The case came to light when the child’s father called the police on October 20, 2019, reporting that his daughter had snuck out of the home and met up with an unknown man.

Officers began a nighttime search and discovered an SUV with Pennsylvania plates parked on the side of a new-construction road. Inside, officers discovered Medina and the missing girl. A search of Medina’s cell phone revealed two videos of him and the girl engaging in sexual acts. Also on Medina’s phone were numerous pornographic images of the girl, which he had acquired before his trip to Oklahoma—as well as child pornography depicting other girls.  

On November 19, 2019, a federal grand jury indicted Medina with child sexual enticement, child exploitation, and transportation of child pornography.

On February 4, 2020, Medina pleaded guilty to child sexual enticement before Judge Patrick R. Wyrick. Today, Judge Wyrick sentenced Medina to serve 292 months’ imprisonment, followed by a lifetime of Supervised Release.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Warr Acres Police Department, with cell phone forensic analysis assistance from the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Hale prosecuted the case.

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

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma City attorney Keegan Kelley Harroz, 37, has pleaded guilty today in federal court to one count of being a prohibited person unlawfully in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.  Specifically, Harroz admitted that, on or about August 4, 2019, she possessed a firearm in violation of federal law because she was subject to a state-court victim protective order at the time she possessed the firearm.

At sentencing, Harroz faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000.00 fine.  As part of the plea agreement in this case, the parties agreed that a sentencing range of 24 to 30 months’ imprisonment would be an appropriate disposition of the case.  Sentencing will take place in approximately 90 days.

This case is a result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service, along with other law enforcement partners.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew P. Anderson, Jacquelyn M. Hutzell, and Danielle M. Connolly are prosecuting the case.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiatives to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.  The case is also part of "Operation 922," the district’s local implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods and Project Guardian.  "Operation 922" prioritizes firearms prosecutions connected to domestic violence, including domestic violence abusers who possess a firearm and are subject to a victim protective order or have been previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – TREVOR KANE TAYLOR, 31, of Oklahoma City, has been sentenced to serve more than 16 years in federal prison for carjacking, announced Timothy J. Downing, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.

A Superseding Information filed on March 4, 2020, charged Taylor with one count of conspiracy to commit carjacking and one count of carjacking.  On March 5, 2020, Taylor pleaded guilty to both counts of the Superseding Information.

According to evidence presented at a sentencing hearing earlier this week, on October 28, 2019, Taylor and another individual carjacked a vehicle at gunpoint in Tuttle, Oklahoma.  Senior United States District Judge Stephen P. Friot then sentenced Taylor to 60 months’ imprisonment on Count 1 and 140 months’ imprisonment on Count 2, with the prison terms to run consecutively.  These consecutive terms resulted in a total sentence of 200 months’ imprisonment.  Judge Friot also sentenced Taylor to serve three years of supervised release following his term of imprisonment.  In imposing Taylor’s sentence, Judge Friot noted Taylor’s character and lengthy criminal history.  Public records reflect that Taylor holds multiple felony convictions, including those for possession of a taken credit card, knowingly concealing stolen property, and possession of a controlled substance.

These charges are the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Tuttle Police Department, and the Chickasha Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward J. Kumiega.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – CRYSTAL LEANN RODRIGUEZ, 28, of Oklahoma City, Oklahoma, has been sentenced to 300 months in prison for possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute, as well as possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

Rodriguez was arrested on May 8, 2019, after law enforcement observed multiple drug transactions at her residence in southwest Oklahoma City.  Law enforcement thereafter executed a court authorized search warrant on Rodriguez’ home.  That search resulted in the seizure of more than 68 pounds of methamphetamine, more than $95,000 in cash, and thirteen firearms.

Three other individuals—Tara Humphries, Cheyenne Delodge, and Aimee Salem—were also arrested in connection with the illicit activity taking place at the residence.  Public records reflect that all four women have pled guilty to both possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

At a sentencing hearing yesterday, U.S. District Judge Patrick R. Wyrick sentenced Rodriguez to 240 months in federal prison on the drug dealing count, to be followed by 60 months of imprisonment on the firearm count.  Judge Wyrick also imposed five years of supervised release.  In imposing Rodriguez’ sentence, Judge Wyrick noted the nature and circumstances of the offense and Rogriguez’ criminal history.  Public records reflect that Rodriguez’ arrest came approximately two months after her release from state prison, where she was serving sentences for other controlled substances offenses.

Judge Wyrick has previously sentenced Delodge to 210 months of incarceration, Salem to 120 months of incarceration, and Humphries to 352 months of incarceration.

This case is the result of an investigation by the Oklahoma City Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation—Oklahoma City Field Office, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Marshals Service.   Assistant U.S. Attorneys David McCrary and Jason Harley prosecuted the case.

This case is part of the work of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, the Department of Justice’s signature initiatives to address and reduce drug-related criminal activity.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – Earlier today, BRIAN LEE FOSTER, 51, of Norman, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison for not filing his federal income tax returns for calendar years 2012 and 2013, and ordered to pay over $1 Million in restitution to the Internal revenue Service (IRS), announced Timothy J. Downing, United States Attorney for the Western District of Oklahoma.

Foster was the CEO and Director of Gaming for the four Lucky Star Casinos until early 2014.  On October 8, 2019, Foster was charged with willful failure to file a federal tax return for calendar years 2012 and 2013.  According to court filings, Foster earned more than $2.4 million in gross income during those two years, but did not timely file federal income tax returns.  On October 24, 2019, Foster pled guilty to willfully failing to file a federal tax return for 2012 and 2013. 

United States Magistrate Judge Suzanne Mitchell sentenced Foster today to 12 months and 1 day in federal prison, followed by 1 year of supervised release.  In addition, Foster was ordered to pay $1,047,241 in restitution to the IRS for taxes owed for 2012 through 2018.  In imposing the sentence, Judge Mitchell noted the nature and circumstances of the offense.  Foster must self-surrender to federal prison on October 26, 2020.

These charges are the result of an investigation conducted by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Brown.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.

OKLAHOMA CITY – A federal jury has found DOMINIC EUGENE HUNT, 26, of Oklahoma City, guilty of numerous firearms, ammunition, and drug-related charges after five years of criminal conduct, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

On November 6, 2019, a third superseding indictment charged Hunt with nine counts of various firearms, ammunition, and drug-related charges from four separate episodes of criminal conduct spanning from 2014 to 2019. The Third Superseding Indictment charged Hunt with the following: Counts 1 & 5) Drug User in Possession of a Firearm; Count 2) Maintaining a Drug-Involved Premises; Counts 3 & 6) Possession with Intent to Distribute; Counts 4 & 7) Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime; and Counts 8 & 9) Felon in Possession of Ammunition.

On September 4, 2020, Hunt pleaded guilty to Counts 1-3 before the case went to trial. On September 11, 2020, after a four-day trial, the jury returned guilty verdicts on the remaining six counts.

Evidence at trial showed that Hunt, also known as "Dime Sack," illegally possessed three different firearms, including an assault rifle, in furtherance of his possession of marijuana with intent to distribute on at least two different occasions in 2014.  Evidence also showed the ammunition Hunt illegally possessed in Count 8 was the ammunition used to shoot a victim on January 20, 2019, during a confrontation about a possible stolen car.  That victim survived.  Finally, evidence showed that the ammunition Hunt illegally possessed in Count 9 was shot from the same gun as the ammunition in Count 8 and was used in a drive-by shooting on February 2, 2019, that resulted in the death of one victim.

Hunt’s prosecution highlights the resources that the United States Attorney’s Office can bring to bear in addressing violent crimes.  The prosecution of Counts 8 and 9 was based on work by the Oklahoma City Police Department (OCPD), but also depended heavily on ballistics expertise from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives (ATF), as well as cell phone location analysis provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). 

Hunt is expected to be sentenced within the next few months.  Due to his convictions on Counts 4 and 7 alone, Hunt faces a minimum of 10 years in prison, and up to life, as well as possible fines and a period of supervised release.

This case is the result of investigations by the OCPD, ATF, and FBI.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacquelyn M. Hutzell and David McCrary prosecuted the case.  This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.

Reference is made to court filings for further information.  To download a photo of U.S. Attorney Downing, click here.