Western District of Tennessee

Memphis, TN – James Nelson, 48, has been sentenced to 405 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on Friday, September 15, 2017, Keysha Caldwell brought her 13-year-old daughter to the apartment of James Nelson, the father of their child. Nelson was in the apartment with his girlfriend when suddenly he began to physically assault Ms. Caldwell. Their daughter went back to their car to get help from her step-father, Ernest Bernard.

As Mr. Bernard, Ms. Caldwell, and her 13-year-old daughter were leaving the apartment, Nelson fired a shot at Ms. Caldwell, striking her in the head and killing her. Mr. Bernard called 911 and Ms. Caldwell's other daughter came to the apartment. Nelson then threatened to kill her stating, "your momma is laying in there dead and you'll be next." The death was ruled a homicide. A Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol was located inside the residence. Nelson waived his Miranda rights and gave a statement to the police, advising that he did not kill Ms. Caldwell; the gun went off during a struggle. However, his version of the events did not match the accounts of the other witnesses or the physical evidence.

Nelson was previously convicted for several felony charges involving drugs, guns, and violent crimes, including a 1996 conviction for voluntary manslaughter, where he shot and killed his sister.

On August 12, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Nelson to 405 months in federal prison followed by 3 years supervised release.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Convicted felons who possess firearms are an inherent danger to the community, and in this case, Nelson was a violent offender who continued to possess a firearm despite his prior felony conviction history. Nelson has devoted his adult life to a career of criminal conduct, and that prior history has finally caught up with him. Clearly, this armed career criminal had no hesitation in committing another violent crime with a firearm that resulted in death, and he will now be removed from our community for over 33 years."

The case was investigated by the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Task Force, which includes the U.S. Attorney’s Office; the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Memphis Police Department; and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, who have all joined together to address gun-related crimes through targeted investigations and aggressive prosecution.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) Samuel D. Winnig prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. SAUSA Winnig is currently assigned from the Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office for the purpose of prosecuting violent crimes and firearms offenses in federal court.

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Jackson, TN – Robert Thomas, 46, has been sentenced to 108 months imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

This is the first sentencing in a case involving multiple defendants including Keith Norris, Charles Settles, Justin Tyler Bynum and Solomon Clay on charges of conspiracy to distribute actual methamphetamine.

According to information presented in court, the Weakley County Sheriff’s Department began an investigation into Keith Norris’ drug trafficking organization in late April, 2018. This investigation included search warrants, traffic stops, statements of cooperators and phone records. Agents learned that Thomas was a member of Norris’ drug trafficking organization.

On April 15, 2018, Weakley County Sheriff’s Office stopped Thomas for a traffic violation and recovered approximately 21 grams of methamphetamine. During a mirandized statement, Thomas confessed to selling approximately 88 ounces of methamphetamine in Weakley County within a seven-month period.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Methamphetamine that is trafficked in and through West Tennessee is increasing in dangerous purity, and continues to destroy individuals, families, and communities. Drug dealers who profit from the pain, addiction, violence and death caused by these dangerous substances deserve proper punishment, and this sentence does just that."

On August 6, 2019, United States Chief District Court Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Thomas to 108 months in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release.

This case was investigated by the Weakley County Sheriff’s Department and the Martin Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Jackson, TN – Tammy Ranger, 55, has been sentenced to 120 months imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

This is the latest sentencing in a case involving multiple defendants including Rolando Lopez, Saul Vega Flores, Virginia Torres, Ronald Lynn Parham, Daniel Ranger, Kennett Garrett, Marcus Jones, and Xavier Demetrius James on charges of conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of actual methamphetamine. Roland Lopez, the leader of the Drug Trafficking Organization, was previously sentenced August 6, 2019 to life imprisonment.

According to information presented in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began an investigation into Rolando Lopez and his drug trafficking organization in March of 2017. Agents discovered that Lopez and other co-conspirators were trafficking in methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana and other illegal substances from Mexico to Tennessee. Investigators used "wiretaps" along with other surveillance, confidential sources, traffic stops, and search warrants to investigate this organization.

In April 2017, agents received information from a confidential informant regarding a home in Davidson County, Tennessee, where Lopez and his brother were conducting drug related activity. A search warrant was executed at the residence where over $500,000 in cash, a money counter, and a vacuum sealer were recovered. As the investigation developed, on February 28, 2017, it was learned that Daniel Ranger was stopped in Lawrence County, TN with $10,241, a gun, body armor, and 5 grams of ICE. On October 7, 2017, Ranger was arrested by Perry County, TN law enforcement officers with $98,360 dollars in United States currency, a few grams of meth, and some legend drugs. Then on October 24, 2017, while operating a motor vehicle, Ranger fell asleep while driving and had an automobile accident. He was observed hiding items from his vehicle in the woods.

Ranger then called his wife to come to the scene of the accident to retrieve the remainder of the narcotics he could not hide. Within 10-12 yards of the wreck a cooler with 222 grams of 95% pure ICE, weed, $20,000 and a drug ledger was recovered at the accident scene.

Agents were notified about the accident and set up surveillance on the Lobelville home of Daniel and Tammy Ranger. Agents observed several people visiting the location for short periods, consistent with drug deals. While at the location, Tammy Ranger pulled up in a car where both methamphetamine and firearms were recovered in the vehicle. Both Tammy and Daniel Ranger gave consent to agents to search their residence. Found during this search was 734 grams of methamphetamine, (approximately a pound and a half of 96% pure ICE), 208 grams of fentanyl, and 12 firearms. Also recovered were several more firearms, an AR-15 and a shotgun which were located under the stairwell. Tammy was advised of her Miranda rights and agreed to make a statement. Tammy stated that they were getting their ICE from a Mexican named "TT." It was learned during the investigation that "TT" was Rolando Lopez.

Tammy Ranger was held responsible for between 10,000 kilograms and 30,000 kilograms of converted drug weight to include 1.28 kilograms of marijuana, 14,680 kilograms of methamphetamine, ICE, and 520 kilograms of Fentanyl, for a total of 15,201.28 kilograms. Tammy also received a firearm enhancement.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Drug distribution conspiracies are not victimless crimes. Methamphetamine causes significant human pain, loss, and destruction in countless ways, including addiction, injuries, and deaths. Those who choose to engage in such lawlessness will pay the price with a long prison sentence."

On August 6, 2019, United States Chief District Court Judge Thomas S. Anderson sentenced Tammy Ranger to 120 months in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Nashville, Jackson, Atlanta DEA offices, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, 23rd Judicial Drug Task Force, Metro Nashville Police Department, Perry County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Lawrenceburg Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Jackson Police Department, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, and Obion County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN –In July 2019, a federal grand jury charged 16 individuals with conspiracy to possess various controlled substances with intent to distribute; possession of several types of controlled substances with intent to distribute; and several criminal violations of federal firearms laws. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the unsealing of the superseding indictment today.

The investigation of this case focused on the Grape Street Crips street gang in Memphis, and was known as Operation "Grapes of Wrath." ATF began investigating various shootings in the Memphis area in the Summer of 2018, and together with DEA and other law enforcement partners, developed suspects in connection with drug distribution, specifically the distribution of heroin and methamphetamine.

The defendants charged in the indictment are:

Travon Allen a/k/a "Little Y," 30, Los Angeles, California
Ozene Benson, 27, Memphis, Tennessee
Vincent Boykin a/k/a "Veto," 31, Memphis, Tennessee
Antwan Brown, 31, Memphis, Tennessee
Christopher Brown, 29, Memphis, Tennessee
Lonnell Davis, 41, Memphis, Tennessee
Clifton Graves, 35, Memphis, Tennessee
Preston Hampton a/k/a "Grape da Shooter," 26, Memphis, Tennessee
Amber Howe, 31, Memphis, Tennessee
Claude Cordell Irby, 23, Memphis, Tennessee
Eddie Johnson a/k/a "Eddie Grape," 36, Memphis, Tennessee
Lapheal Johnson a/k/a "Peaches," 25, Jackson, Tennessee
Tionna Jones, 24, Memphis, Tennessee
Terrell Kennedy, 34, Memphis, Tennessee
Antonio Lurry, 37, Memphis, Tennessee
Tarzell Worles a/k/a "Snugg," 26, Memphis, Tennessee

Count 1 of the indictment charges all of the defendants with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. This drug conspiracy operated from December 1, 2018 until May 30, 2019.

Count 2 of the indictment charges Tarzell Worles ("Snugg"), Amber Howe, Antonio Lurry, Christopher Brown, and Clifton Graves with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of heroin. This drug conspiracy operated from March of 2018 through April 4, 2019.

Count 3 of the indictment charges Tarzell Worles ("Snugg") and Amber Howe with possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute on January 30, 2019.

Count 4 of the indictment charges Tarzell Worles ("Snugg") and Amber Howe with possession of heroin with intent to distribute on January 30, 2019

Count 5 of the indictment charges Tarzell Worles ("Snugg") with conspiracy to possess MDMA with intent to distribute. According to the indictment, this conspiracy operated from December 1, 2018, through April 4, 2019.

Count 6 of the indictment charges Tarzell Worles ("Snugg") with possession of MDMA with intent to distribute on April 4, 2019.

Count 7 of the indictment charges Clifton Graves, an unlawful user of marijuana and promethazine, with illegally possessing 10 Winchester 12 gauge shotgun shells, 139 Winchester .40 caliber bullets, 12 Hornady .40 caliber bullets, 27 Speer .357 caliber bullets, and 31 Hornady .380 caliber bullets on February 18, 2019. Federal law prohibits unlawful users of narcotics from possessing firearms or ammunition that have moved in or affected interstate commerce.

Count 8 of the indictment charges Clifton Graves, an unlawful user of marijuana and promethazine, with illegally possessing a Ruger LCR revolver and a Sig Sauer 516 semi-automatic rifle on February 18, 2019.

Count 9 of the indictment charges Vincent Boykin ("Veto") and Travon Allen ("Little Y") with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute from March 18, 2019 until April 24, 2019.

Count 10 of the indictment charges Vincent Boykin ("Veto") with possession 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute on April 24, 2019.

Count 11 of the indictment charges Ozene Benson and Antwan Brown with possession 50 grams or more methamphetamine with intent to distribute on May 30, 2019.

United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "As long as organized crime and drug distribution conspiracies by street gangs continue to threaten and harm our communities with addiction and violence, this office will continue to aggressively prosecute them for any and all violations of federal law. Gang members and drug dealers beware: your continued lawlessness will land your name on a federal indictment, and will secure your future in a federal prison."

This prosecution is part of an investigation conducted by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking organizations and organized criminal enterprises, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.

This case is also part of the Domestic Cartel Initiative, a DEA-led initiative that seeks to dismantle and prosecute domestic drug organizations and violent gangs that operate in multiple states and jurisdictions.

If convicted of the conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine charged in Count 1, the defendants face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years imprisonment and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, and a $10,000,000 fine. Count 2, which involves a conspiracy to possess one kilogram or more of heroin with intent to distribute, carries the same penalty as Count 1. If convicted of Counts 3, 4, 5, or 6, the defendants face up to of 20 years imprisonment and a $1,000,000 fine. The defendants face a maximum of 10 years imprisonment and $250,000 fine on counts 7 and 8.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Shelby County Sheriff's Office Narcotics Division, Memphis Police Department Organized Crime Unit, Bartlett Police Department, and West Tennessee Drug Task Force.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Griffith and Assistant United States Attorney Mark Erskine are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – The Department of Justice announced today the FBI-led recovery or identification of 103 child victims and the arrest of 67 sex traffickers through Operation Independence Day. This initiative — a revamping of a previously successful program — was executed during the month of July through 161 operations conducted nationwide.

Operation Independence Day relied on the 86 FBI-led Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Forces (CEHTTFs), which leveraged the resources and intelligence of other federal, state, local, and tribal partners. Overall, more than 400 agencies participate in these task forces.

Operation Independence Day prioritized locating and rescuing missing minors who are at great risk for sexual exploitation, and arresting the traffickers exploiting them. To that end, through its partnership with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), FBI special agents and intelligence analysts reviewed information provided through NCMEC’s CyberTipline, to identify missing minor children at risk for sexual exploitation, and then worked with state and local partners to execute law enforcement activity designed to recover those children and arrest traffickers.

The health and welfare of recovered minor and adult trafficking victims was a further priority. To facilitate these efforts, the FBI’s Victim Services Division and victim specialists stationed in each of our 56 field offices also worked closely with the task forces during the operation to ensure recovered children received the help they needed. Victim specialists put internal and external resources in place before the operation to ensure victim assistance was a priority in the aftermath of the law enforcement operations.

"This initiative has two crucial goals: rescuing children being sold for sex and prosecuting their adult traffickers," said Attorney General William P. Barr. "Child sex trafficking is a heinous crime that preys on the most vulnerable in our society. Perpetrators victimize children in communities throughout the country, and we are determined to find and rescue them. Through the FBI’s leadership, we have recovered thousands of child victims, and this latest operation adds to the success of that decades-long effort."

"Make no mistake, the FBI is fiercely focused on recovering child victims and arresting the sex traffickers who exploit them," said FBI Director Christopher Wray. "Through operations like this, the FBI helps child victims escape the abusive life of sex trafficking. Our agents, intelligence analysts, professional staff, and victim specialists work tirelessly before, during and after these operations to make sure that victims get the help they need to reclaim their lives."

"The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is proud to be part of this extraordinary partnership with the FBI. The FBI and the Department of Justice have been instrumental in spearheading multi-agency collaboration between organizations to locate and provide resources to victims of child sex trafficking," said John Clark, President and CEO of NCMEC. "We know this horrendous crime impacts communities across our country every day and we applaud the FBI for continuing to work tirelessly to locate these victims and hold accountable those who are selling children for sex."

In June 2003, the FBI, in conjunction with the Justice Department Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and NCMEC, launched the Innocence Lost National Initiative (ILNI). This combined effort was aimed at addressing the growing problem of domestic sex trafficking of children in the United States. In the years since its inception, the ILNI has expanded to 86 dedicated CEHTTFs. These task forces, with the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the FBI’s Victim Services Division, have worked successfully to rescue thousands of children.

Through ILNI, the FBI, along with its local law enforcement partners, uses task forces to leverage resources and intelligence to identify and recover child victims and prosecute those responsible for their exploitation. This collaborative effort has led to the recovery or identification of more than 6,600 child victims. The initiative has also led to more than 2,750 convictions, including more than 15 life sentences and many other sentences ranging from 25 years to life.

In 2008, the ILNI initiated Operation Cross Country (OCC)—a focused, national campaign that targeted the venues where children were the victims of commercial sex trafficking. Since 2008, there have been 11 iterations of OCC, recovering more than 900 child victims and arresting nearly 1,400 traffickers. The last operation was held in October 2017 with 78 task forces participating.

The FBI determined that after 11 years of OCC success, it was time to re-evaluate the program. The newly renamed Operation Independence Day was conducted over an entire month, rather than a few days, but continued to focus on the recovery of child victims from commercial sex trafficking.

The FBI’s Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking Unit and DOJ coordinated the operation. For additional information on Operation Independence Day and the Innocence Lost initiative, please visit www.fbi.gov/oid2019.

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Memphis, TN – Patrick Hayden, 32, of Charleston, Arkansas, pled guilty to sending threatening letters to U.S. District Court Judges and other federal personnel through the mail, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 876(c). D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney announced the guilty plea today.

According to the information presented in court, on March 6, 2018, at approximately 2:05 p.m., the United States Clerk’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee received a bomb and violence threat in the mail at 167 North Main Street, Memphis, Tennessee. The envelope, postmarked March 2, 2018, was forwarded from inmate Arron Lewis, of Marianna, Arkansas.

The envelope contained several letters from four Arkansas state inmates and a note stating "federal employees there is a bomb in the building! 901 confederates #savethestatues." The individual letters were addressed to "judges and prosecutors" and "Federal stooges in black skirts" and contained various threats to injure/kill potential victims and their families. One of the letters from Hayden contained similar threats and called for "total Aryan resurgent’s (sic)."

Law enforcement officials met with the Arkansas Department of Corrections at the East Arkansas Regional Unit about the threat mailing by Hayden and the other inmates and verified that Hayden was serving a sentence for a theft conviction along with inmate Lewis and others.

On April 10, 2018, agents interviewed Hayden at the prison who admitted to participating in the writing/mailing of the subject letter and said when he is released from prison, "I will do this" referring to bombing the Memphis Federal Building. Other direct statements from Hayden: "I am a willingly expendable pawn" and, "their life is meaningless" regarding the victims he threatened to kill. Hayden also stated, "Memphis is the place I choose, so I am now dedicated…" and, "I believe this in my heart." Hayden claims to be a member of White Aryan Resistance (WAR). Hayden stated the group chose to mail the letter to Memphis based on the demographics of the city. Hayden believes he is capable of carrying out such a plot and made statements regarding idolizing Timothy McVeigh since an early age. During the interview, Hayden also demonstrated an in-depth knowledge of bomb making materials and using cell phones as remote detonators. Forensic examinations revealed Hayden’s fingerprints on the letter and matched his known handwriting samples.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "We reject and denounce all forms of radical violent extremism, including white supremacy and any other threats posed by racism, bigotry, and hatred. This office, along with our federal law enforcement partners, are vigilant to protect the Federal Judiciary and prevent attacks on any critical infrastructure sites in West Tennessee, including the Federal Courthouse in Memphis. We take all threats seriously, and will seek to impose all applicable enhancements and the maximum available penalty under the federal sentencing guidelines in order to punish and incapacitate this dangerous extremist for as long as possible.We are pleased that the defendant has been held accountable for this disturbing threat of violence fueled by racial hatred, and we commend the quick and thorough response of the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force."

Sentencing is set for November 8, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman. Hayden faces up to 10 years of imprisonment along with 3 years supervised release and a $250,000 fine. There is no parole in the federal prison system.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force, U.S. Marshals Service and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Hall is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – On July 23, 2019, a federal grand jury indicted 18 individuals for federal drug charges. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the indictment today.

The indictment charges that the defendants conspired to commit bank fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 846. The indictment also requests the forfeiture of a total of $1,243,000 in criminal proceeds from the defendants.

The defendants charged in the indictment and are currently in custody are:

Nashon Baldwin, 24, Los Angeles, California

Carterrio Bogan, 27, Memphis, Tennessee

Terrell Boyland, 30, Memphis, Tennessee

Quinton Chaffin, 28, Memphis, Tennessee

Cortavious Culp, 22, Memphis, Tennessee

Deandre Evans, 20, Memphis, Tennessee

Allon Gates, 23, Memphis, Tennessee

Marcell Glass, 26, Memphis, Tennessee

Jimmy Gause, 25, Memphis, Tennessee

Aaron Henderson, 42, Memphis, Tennessee

Marticus Hill, 29, Memphis, Tennessee

Ledarious Hope, 25, Memphis, Tennessee

Nickelle Jackson, 24, Memphis, Tennessee

Marquice Lester, 24, Memphis, Tennessee

Cordney Smith, 23, Memphis, Tennessee

Marcolm Watson, 26, Memphis, Tennessee

Carlos Whitten, Jr., 23, Memphis, Tennessee

Karlyss Williams, 25, Memphis, Tennessee

The indictment charges that all 18 defendants were members or associates of Fast Cash Boyz Entertainment. According to the indictment, Fast Cash Boyz Entertainment was a music label and, over time, the members "began exploiting the brand by engaging in criminal activity such as bank fraud and drug trafficking to earn "FAST CASH" for the enterprise."

Count 1 of the indictment charges that Carterrio Bogan, Cortavious Culp, Allon Gates, Marcel Glass, Marquice Lester, Karlyss Williams, Cordney Smith, Marcolm Watson, Carlos Whitten, Jr., Quinton Chaffin, Deandre Evens, and Nickell Jackson all conspired to defraud Regions Bank in order to obtain "monies, funds and assets, and credits." According to the indictment, The defendants would deposit, or cause to be deposited, worthless checks into accounts at Regions Bank. After making these deposits, they would withdraw cash from these accounts before Regions and the other banks involved discovered the checks deposited by the defendants were worthless. The conspiracy operated from November, 2017 until July, 2019. As a result of the defendants’ illegal acts, Regions lost a total of $243,000.

Count 2 of the indictment charges that Nashon Baldwin, Carterrio Bogan, Terrell Boyland, Jimmy Gause, Marcel Glass, Aaron Henderson, Marticus Hill, Ledarious Hope, and Cordney Smith conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana. The indictment charges that the drug conspiracy operated from February, 2016 until October 31, 2018.

The indictment also contains a forfeiture count that seeks the forfeiture of the $243,000 in criminal proceeds generated by the bank fraud conspiracy and at least $1,000,000 in proceeds generated by the drug conspiracy.

"Drug dealing and fraud schemes that distribute poison into our streets and steal money from financial institutions must be stopped. We thank and commend the outstanding investigative work and collaboration by our federal and local law enforcement partners to dismantle the "Fast Cash" criminal enterprise, and our office looks forward to the prosecution of this case that will hold these defendants accountable."

"No matter where you bank, we encourage everyone to be on guard and report it immediately if someone asks for private account information or for access to your account," said Don White, head of Corporate Security for Regions Bank. "At Regions, we work around the clock to detect and prevent fraud. When we see suspicious activity, our investigators work hand-in-hand with law enforcement to get to the bottom of the issue. Today’s announcement shows the result of that partnership. We appreciate the work of each agency involved in bringing this matter to justice."

If convicted of the bank fraud conspiracy, each charged defendant faces a possible sentence of up to 30 years imprisonment and a $1,000,000 fine. If convicted of the drug conspiracy, each charged defendant faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years imprisonment and a possible fine of up to $5,000,000.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), U.S. Postal Inspection Service, United States Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshals Service, Memphis Police Department’s Violent Crime Unit and Multi-Agency Gang Unit, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Kimbril-Parks and Gregory Allen are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The charges and allegations contained in the indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Memphis, TN –Davoris Polk, 26, has been sentenced to 75 months for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on February 26, 2018, law enforcement with the Covington Police Department responded to the burglary of a marked Tipton County Sheriff's Office vehicle parked at a deputy’s residence in the 100 block of North Maple Street in Covington, TN. As a result of the burglary, the patrol vehicle sustained extensive damage to multiple windows and the interior of the vehicle. During the burglary, a Bushmaster .223-5.56 caliber AR-15 patrol rifle and a Remington Model 870 12-gauge shotgun were stolen. The gun locker which secured the weapons had been destroyed along with the other parts of the unit’s interior. In addition to the vehicle being locked and the weapons being properly secured inside a gun locker, the patrol vehicle was also being actively monitored by a video surveillance system which captured the burglary and theft. The Remington 870 12 gauge shotgun was later recovered during a canvass and search of the area.

The Tipton County Sheriff’s Office identified Polk as the suspect responsible for the auto burglary and theft, and on March 1, 2018, officers located Polk at the Budget Inn on Highway 51 North in Covington, where he was placed under arrest and taken into custody. Polk confessed to the crimes and arranged for the stolen patrol rifle to be returned. Prior to the offense, Polk had been convicted of the felony offenses of Aggravated Burglary and Burglary of a Vehicle, as well as multiple misdemeanor offenses.

On March 21, 2019, the defendant pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a stolen firearm. On July 30, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Polk to 75 months imprisonment followed by 3 years supervised release.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Any person who is audacious and brazen enough to target a law enforcement vehicle to commit theft of police firearms is a dangerous offender who has no regard for the law or public safety, and has no respect for law enforcement. Mr. Polk has dedicated his short adult life to felony crimes of burglary, theft, and dishonesty, and will now pay the price for this disturbing crime. Any attack against law enforcement is an attack against the very fabric of our society, and we will not tolerate this lawlessness that endangers our citizens."

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Covington Police Department, and the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Neal Oldham prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – Travis Sanders, 40, has been sentenced to 204 months imprisonment as a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on January 23, 2018, Sanders and a male victim were involved in a verbal altercation near Latham Avenue and Lucy Street, when Sanders threatened to kill the victim. Sanders then asked an unknown male to bring him his gun. The unknown male brought a gun to Sanders and he fired shots at the victim. The victim ran away to a nearby MLGW employee working in the area who drove him away from the scene. The MLGW employee called police and the victim escaped uninjured.

Memphis Police responded to the scene and recovered an Intratec 9mm caliber pistol from an abandoned apartment across the street. The firearm was loaded with five rounds in the magazine and one round in the chamber. This was the same firearm described by the victim. Officers also recovered three 9mm spent shell casings on the scene.

While Sanders was in custody at the Shelby County Jail, he attempted to get others to dissuade the shooting victim from coming to court for the state court proceedings.

The defendant’s lengthy prior criminal history includes: two convictions for aggravated assault; one conviction for coercion of a witness; one conviction for possession of cocaine with the intent to sell; one conviction for being felon in possession of a firearm, and multiple misdemeanor convictions. As a result of these prior felony convictions, Sanders was determined by the Court to be an Armed Career Criminal, and subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in federal prison.

U.S. Attorney D.Michael Dunavant said, "This is precisely the type of violent gun offender that threatens lives and public safety in Memphis. This brazen and recidivist violent behavior must be met with swift and significant punishment. As a result of this conviction and 17 year sentence, the citizens of Memphis and West Tennessee are safer. Gun Crime is Max Time."

On January 18, 2019, the defendant pled guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. On July 29, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Sanders to 204 months in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Memphis Police Department investigated this case.

U.S. Attorney Marques Young prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Jackson, TN –Marlon "Jazz" Taylor, 34, has been sentenced to life in prison on federal charges of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

This is the first sentencing in a case involving multiple defendants including Nicholas Rodgers, Tarus Taylor, Elizabeth Espey, Terry Weathers, Richie Henderson, Derrick Howard, Duane Smith and Bobby Joe Kemp, Jr. on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

According to information presented in court, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), 24th Judicial District Drug Task Force (JDDTF) and Carroll County Sheriff’s Office began an investigation into Jazz in late 2016. Agents discovered that Jazz and other co-conspirators were trafficking in methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana from California and Georgia. Investigators used multiple investigation techniques to dismantle this drug trafficking organization to include surveillance, confidential sources, traffic stops, and search warrants.

USPIS and the JDDTF intercepted a package mailed from California to an address in McKenzie, Tennessee. A federal search warrant was executed on the package, which contained approximately 893 grams of actual methamphetamine, with a purity level of 91%, and 1,810 grams of marijuana. In October 2017, the USPS discovered similar shipments from California to a residence in Trezevant, Tennessee. Surveillance of the residence revealed that after the packages were delivered to the residence, they would be delivered to Jazz’s residence in McKenzie, Tennessee. On or about April 2018, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office deputies obtained an arrest warrant for Jazz. Pursuant to the warrant, deputies conducted a parole search at Jazz’s residence and found multiple firearms in the bedroom. Also found was approximately 4.5 pounds of marijuana,

$14,000 in U.S. currency and multiple cell phones. A search of the cell phones revealed multiple text messages between Jazz and co-defendants, detailing drug and money transactions. As a result, FBI agents traveled to California and executed a search warrant on the drug trafficking organization’s source of supply.

On April 10, 2019, Jazz pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

During the sentencing hearing, the United States put on multiple co-defendants who testified about their involvement in the drug conspiracy, including the drug amounts that were being obtained on behalf of Jazz. The total amount of actual methamphetamine obtained during this drug conspiracy was approximately 7 ½ kilograms of actual methamphetamine, 963.8 grams of cocaine and 12,922.7 grams of marijuana. Jazz was found to be the leader or organizer of the organization involving five or more participants. Jazz’s sentence was also enhanced because firearms were present and for maintaining a stash house.

Also, during the sentencing hearing the United States showed evidence that Jazz attempted to influence the testimony of a co-defendant by sending a note to falsely claim that Jazz had no involvement with methamphetamine. Jazz was found to have attempted to obstruct justice based on this conduct.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Drug trafficking offenses are at the root of some of the gravest problems facing our country. The ‘fruit’ of the drug plague is everywhere; it fills our jails, our courts, our streets, and our nurseries. Accordingly, given that drug dealers themselves sentence many individuals to a lifetime of addiction and dependency, a life sentence for repeatedly dealing large quantities of dangerous drugs is a just and proper punishment in this case. Criminal enterprises that distribute harmful drugs into our rural communities can no longer hide, and this maximum sentence demonstrates our ability to dismantle their organizations."

"Drug dealers are committed to poisoning our neighborhoods with narcotics, but this sentencing should demonstrate that law enforcement has an even greater commitment to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations," said M.A. Myers, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. "This sentence should cause drug traffickers to truly rethink their chosen path, because the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to work tirelessly to eliminate these criminal enterprises and lock them up."

"The war on drugs has been an on-going and hard fought battle for law enforcement" stated David M. McGinnis, Inspector in Charge, Charlotte Division. "The U.S. Postal Inspection Service aggressively investigates cases involving the misuse of the U.S. mail system by criminals who traffic illegal contraband such as narcotics. I fully commend the hard work and countless hours put forth by all of the law enforcement agencies involved, which resulted bringing this individual to justice."

Carroll County Sheriff Andy Dickson said: "I would like to begin by taking this opportunity to thank U.S. Attorney Michael Dunavant and his staff of attorneys, especially Jerry Kitchen, who without their tireless work this operation would not have been possible. I would also like to thank all of the agencies that played a part in this intensive drug operation to include the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, 24th Judicial District Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Tennessee National Guard Counter Drug Unit and the United States Postal Inspection Service.

The sentence handed down in this case was just part of an ongoing criminal investigation into the distribution of illegal narcotics that affects Carroll and surrounding counties. Others have already been sentenced involving this case and others await their day in front of a United States Federal Court. I would like for this operation to send notice to others in our jurisdiction that if you continue to attempt to poison our citizens with the illegal substances that you sell that we will be working diligently to build a case against you and others."

On July 24, 2019, Senior U.S. District Court Judge J. Daniel Breen sentenced Jazz to life in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), 24th Judicial District Drug Task Force (JDDTF) and Carroll County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – Robert Elliott Jones, 39, a/k/a/ "Lil Rob," a/k/a/ "Mac Rob" has pled guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the guilty plea today.

According to the superseding indictment, the Gangster Disciples is a highly-organized criminal street gang with nationwide reach. In addition to Tennessee, the gang reportedly operates in more than 35 states. The Gangster Disciples were organized into different positions, including board members, and governor-of-governors who each controlled geographic regions; governors, assistant governors, chief enforcers and chief of security for each state or regions within the state where the Gangster Disciples were active; and coordinators and leaders within each local group.

During the change of plea hearing, Jones admitted that he was the Governor of Section 4, which covers Tipton County, TN, including Covington. The superseding indictment that Jones entered a guilty plea to indicates that as Governor over a region he was responsible for supervising the criminal activities of the members and associates of the Gangster Disciples enterprise; issuing orders to kill rival gang members and subordinate gang members who he believed had violated Gangster Disciple rules of conduct; and presiding over Gangster Disciple meetings where criminal activity was discussed, proceeds were collected and beatings of fellow gang members were administered.

The superseding indictment further alleges that Jones declared Covington, TN as "GD Land" and issued a green light to a subordinate gang member to kill rival gang members in Covington, TN.; he issued an order to kill a subordinate gang member whom the Gangster Disciples believed had cooperated with law enforcement; and sent a photograph of the Treasurer of Section Four who stole $2300 from the Regional Enforcer for the State of Tennessee who was "looking for all money stealers".

Sentencing is set for October 17, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr., where Jones faces a possible sentence of up to life imprisonment, $250,000 fine and 5 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Despite Lil Rob’s declaration, Covington is not and will not be ‘GD Land.’ We are fighting to reclaim our cities, towns, and neighborhoods from the gangs, and are effectively dismantling their leadership and influence. Lil Rob will now pay for his violence and racketeering that has terrorized Tipton County, and the citizens are safer for it."

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, Tennessee Bureau of Investigations, Jackson Police Department Gang Enforcement Team, Memphis Police Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, 28th District West Tennessee Drug Task Force, 26th, 25th, and 30th Judicial District Attorney’s General Offices, Sheriff’s Offices for Tipton, DeSoto, Madison and Fayette Counties, Police Departments of Bartlett, Germantown and Columbia.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Beth C. Boswell and Annie Christoff of the Western District of Tennessee and Trial Attorney Shauna Hale of the Criminal Division Organized Crime and Gang Section are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

 

Jackson, TN – Nickolas Atkins, 40, of Selmer, TN., was indicted for possession with the intent to distribute and distribution of hydrocodone pills after having been placed on pre-trial release. Atkins had previously been indicted along with nineteen co-defendants in two indictments for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana in the Western District of Tennessee. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the new indictment today.

On March 18, 2019, a federal grand jury returned indictments charging 4 defendants with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm that had been shipped in interstate commerce. On April 15, 2019, in a case connected to the previous indictment, a federal grand jury returned indictments, charging 15 defendants with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana, which included Atkins.

Atkins received a bond on his March 18, 2019 indictment and was placed on pre-trial release. On July 15, 2019, a federal grand jury returned a second indictment against Atkins for the distribution of hydrocodone pills on multiple occasions. Atkins was detained and held without bond by United States Magistrate Judge Jon A. York, after a hearing.

This investigation was conducted in conjunction with prosecutors in Jackson as part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Program, which seeks to reduce the availability of drugs by disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, money laundering organizations and related criminal enterprises.

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If convicted, the defendant faces a sentence of not more than 20 years imprisonment. Atkins also faces a sentence of not less than 10 years up to life for his prior conspiracy indictment on March 18, 2019.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), 24th Judicial District Drug Task Force, Decatur County Sheriff’s Office, Lexington Police Department, Dyersburg Police Department, Jackson Police Department, Selmer Police Department, McNairy County Sheriff’s Office and the Hardeman County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen and Hillary Parham are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The charges and allegations in the indictments are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Memphis, TN – After an hour and a half of deliberations, a federal jury convicted John Shields, 33, a/k/a/ "John John," a/k/a/ "John Juan," with conspiracy to distribute more than a kilogram of heroin; conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture and substance of methamphetamine; possession with intent to distribute more than one kilogram of heroin; and conspiracy to commit money laundering. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the guilty verdict today.

In June 2017, twenty-two members and associates of the Grape Street Crips/The Peda Roll Mafia were charged by a federal grand jury with multiple drug and money laundering offenses.

According to information presented in court during a week-long jury trial, Shields is a member of the Peda Roll Mafia, which is a subset of the Grape Street Crips. The evidence at trial showed that Shields received multiple kilograms of heroin and multiple pounds of methamphetamine from his California-based suppliers, which were then distributed in the Western District of Tennessee. Shields laundered proceeds of his drug sales through national banks such as Bank of America and Wells Fargo.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Criminal enterprises and street gangs that distribute harmful and addictive drugs into our communities for profit can no longer operate with impunity. Thanks to the outstanding work of our law enforcement partners, we are targeting gangs to dismantle their drug trafficking organizations and financial structures. The quick and decisive verdict by the jury also shows that law-abiding citizens will not tolerate this dangerous criminality."

The investigation was the result of a cooperative, multi-agency investigative effort, which included the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA), U.S. Marshals

Service, Memphis Police Department’s Organized Crime Unit, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department.

Sentencing is set for October 18, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker. Shields faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Whitmore and Mark Erskine are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN - Zacharia Mitchell, 31, has been sentenced to 130 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and for a being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on January 11, 2018, while conducting a drug transaction for an ounce of heroin in the parking lot of a Memphis area Kroger, Mitchell and two other individuals were arrested. Officers with the Memphis Police Department Organized Crime Unit were on the scene and witnessed the drug transaction. The defendant Mitchell handed a white powdery substance out of his window in exchange for cash.

When the defendants were arrested, Mitchell ran and was apprehended in the parking lot of the Kroger by law enforcement. Another individual ran into the Kroger store, throwing his gun under a fruit stand as he fled. All three individuals were eventually apprehended. Mitchell was found to possess a 9 mm handgun at the time of the drug transaction. The gun was found in the driver's side floorboard, where he had been sitting prior to his arrest. As a result of Mitchell’s prior felony convictions for Facilitation of Aggravated Robbery and Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Deliver, as well as prior misdemeanor convictions for Domestic Violence, he was prohibited from possessing a firearm under federal law.

A laboratory test confirmed that the recovered drugs were an ounce of fentanyl rather than the heroin that was originally requested. One dosage unit of heroin is approximately one tenth of a

gram. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 30 to 50 times stronger than heroin. One ounce of fentanyl is enough to kill or cause serious bodily injury to hundreds of people.

On Monday, July 22, 2019, Senior U.S. District Court Judge Jon P. McCalla sentenced Mitchell to 130 months in federal prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "This offender presented a triple threat of serious bodily injury and death: a prior convicted felon in possession of a loaded firearm while distributing the most deadly and addictive substance on the streets. This sentence protects the community by incapacitating a repeat dangerous offender, and achieves justice by providing proper punishment according to law."

This case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department Organized Crime Unit and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

This case was part of the West Tennessee Heroin Initiative, a collaboration of local and federal law enforcement that prosecutes opioid cases in West Tennessee.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Griffith prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – A local man was sentenced to 2o years in federal prison for Hobbs Act robberies and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

On November 15, 2018, a federal grand jury returned a ten-count indictment against Brandon Albonetti, 24, for the robberies and attempted robberies of five CVS stores and one Burger King during the summer of 2018.

According to information presented in court, the robberies occurred in Memphis, between June 21, 2018 and August 14, 2018. In several of these robberies, Albonetti entered the respective stores armed with a pistol, taking cash and other items from the registers and safes. In two robberies, Albonetti displayed a knife as he demanded cash. The defendant robbed the CVS located at 786 North Germantown Parkway twice and the CVS at 5055 Stage Road three times during this time period.

On August 14, 2018, Memphis Police officers quickly responded and apprehended Albonetti as he tried to flee the scene of the CVS on Stage Road, which he had just robbed. The defendant used his vehicle to strike two patrol cars as authorities positioned their vehicles to keep the suspect from escaping.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Business owners have a fundamental right to be safe from armed robbers who terrorize our communities with their lawlessness. The senselessness of gun violence has a long-lasting effect on victims of armed robbery, and we are pleased to achieve justice for the victims in this case. This sentence sends a clear message that there will always be a reckoning, a real and significant consequence, for the commission of violent crimes."

On July 22, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Albonetti to 240 months in federal prison followed by 3 years supervised release. The defendant previously pled guilty on February 15, 2019.

The FBI Safe Streets Task Force; Memphis Police Department and the Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office investigated this case.

This case was prosecuted by the Western Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office on behalf of the government.

 

Memphis, TN – Nathaniel Hall, 54, has been sentenced to 188 months in federal prison for possession of firearm by a convicted felon. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on April 13, 2018, Memphis Police Officers were patrolling the area of Looney Avenue and Leath Street when they were flagged down by a shooting victim, who told officers that Hall had chased and shot her in the leg. Officers noticed an injury to the victim’s lower right leg. The victim directed officers to a residence at 785 Looney. When officers saw Hall on the balcony of that address, the victim yelled, "That's him."

Officers ordered Hall out of the home and took him into custody. Subsequently, officers recovered an Arminis .38 special caliber revolver that was hidden under a hot water tank in a utility room of the residence. This was determined by investigators to be the same weapon used to shoot the victim.

Hall has previously been convicted on three separate occasions of burglary. He has also has a prior conviction of robbery with a deadly weapon. Because of these previous felony convictions, Hall was determined to be an armed career criminal and subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of 180 months.

On July 19, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr., sentenced Hall to 188 months imprisonment followed by 3 years supervised release.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Convicted felons who possess firearms are an inherent danger to community, and in this case, Hall was an armed career criminal who continued to commit senseless gun violence despite his prior felony conviction history. There is and ought to be a significant consequence for such recidivist criminal behavior, and this sentence is just punishment for such violent victimization of an innocent citizen. Gun Crime is Max Time."

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

The case was investigated by the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Task Force, which includes the U.S. Attorney’s Office; the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Memphis Police Department; and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, who have all joined together to address gun-related crimes through targeted investigations and aggressive prosecution.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Marques Young prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Jackson, TN – Jason King, 43, has been sentenced to 51 months imprisonment on federal charges for being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the sentence today.

The sentencing in this case involved King, a former employee and cast member of the TV series, the "Deadliest Catch," for his possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. King received a sentencing enhancement for also being in possession of over 14 pounds of marijuana. "Deadliest Catch" is a Discovery Channel documentary series chronicling the real-life high-sea adventures of the Alaskan crab fishermen in what is described as the deadliest profession in the world. King appeared as himself as a deckhand on the Cornelia Marie fishing vessel, and is known on the show as Jason "Tennessee" King.

According to information presented in court, on April 20, 2017, officers with the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, the 24th Judicial District Drug Task Force, the 15th Judicial District Drug Task Force and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Explosives (ATF) executed a search warrant and felony arrest warrant at the residence of Jason King in Counce, Tennessee. Found during the search were multiple bags of marijuana totaling over 14 pounds hidden under the residence. Also recovered was a fully loaded Smith & Wesson .38 caliber revolver in the kitchen drawer. Because King had an extensive prior criminal history, he was sentenced to the maximum sentence within the guideline range for these offenses.

On July 16, 2019, United States District Court Chief Judge Thomas Anderson sentenced King to 51 months in federal prison followed by 3 years supervised release.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Convicted felons who possess firearms in connection with illegal drugs are inherently dangerous individuals. Our outstanding federal, state, and local law enforcement partners were able to catch this outlaw, and his prior criminal record finally caught up with him. This conviction and sentence will remove a repeat offender from the community, and will protect public safety in West Tennessee.

ATF Special Agent in Charge, Marcus Watson stated, "Reducing the potential for violent crime in this case was critical due to ATF partnering with our local, state and federal partners".

This case was investigated by the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office, the 24th Judicial District Drug Task Force, the 15th Judicial District Drug Task Force, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – Today, three Tipton County men were sentenced for their roles in a 2017 home invasion murder in Covington, TN, and two others pled guilty for their roles in the attempted robbery resulting in death. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentences today.

According to information presented in court, on January 19, 2017, Willie Somerville, 21, Armoni Hall, 21, Eddie Poindexter, 21, Christian Sherrill, 24, and Darrell Owens, 32, participated in the robbery of Timothy Edwards at his home located at 1229 Douglas Street in Covington, Tennessee. They planned to rob him of drugs and drug proceeds. Somerville was armed with a 9 mm pistol and Hall with a twelve-gauge shotgun. Somerville, Hall, and Poindexter went to Edwards’ residence and kicked in the door, while Sherrill and Owens waited nearby in a getaway car. As Hall entered Edwards’ residence, Edwards grabbed him and they struggled over the shotgun. Somerville opened fire with the pistol, killing Edwards and seriously injuring Hall. Edwards’ wife was in the back of the house and called 911. By the time police arrived a few minutes later, Edwards was already dead. Hall was found lying in the street a block away with gunshot injuries.

On December 19, 2017, a federal grand jury indicted the five men for robbery affecting interstate commerce; possession, use and discharge of firearms during a crime of violence; and use of a firearm to cause the death of Timothy Edwards. On March 5, 2019, after a week-long trial, the jury convicted Somerville of all counts, and Poindexter and Sherrill were convicted of the robbery and use of the firearm during the robbery. Hall previously pled guilty to all counts. On April 2, 2019, Hall was sentenced to 190 months along with 3 years supervised release. Owens previously pled guilty to the robbery and firearms offenses. On March 27, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Owens to 96 months followed by 3 years supervised release.

At sentencing, the Court determined that all five defendants had prior adult criminal convictions and/or juvenile delinquent histories. Further, the Court found that Somerville was a member and leader in the Kitchen Crips street gang, and that Hall, Poindexter, and Owens were also members of the Kitchen Crips gang in Covington. During the sentencing hearing for Somerville, Timothy Edwards’ wife, Katrice Edwards made a statement to the Court, calling Somerville an "evil monster" who had no remorse for what he had done, and that Somerville is a "natural born killer" who changed her life forever, and who needs to spend the rest of his life behind bars. The Court also found that after his arrest and trial, Somerville continued to threaten and intimidate cooperating witnesses who gave information and testimony against him.

On July 18, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Somerville to life imprisonment plus ten years; Poindexter was sentenced to 330 months imprisonment and 4 years supervised release; and Sherrill was sentenced to 330 months imprisonment and 4 years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Willie Somerville and his fellow Kitchen Crips gang members have terrorized Covington and Tipton County for years with their brazen violence, robbery crews, trigger-pullers, and general lawlessness. The violent nature of these offenders’ criminal acts underscores the serious threat that this group posed to the community as a whole. Somerville sowed the destructive winds of gang violence, and he shall now reap the whirlwind of a life sentence. The 4 other members of his crew had no regard for human life and no respect for the law, and will now be removed from the Covington community for decades. We commend the outstanding investigative work by our law enforcement partners, and we are pleased that justice has been achieved for the Edwards family."

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, and the Covington Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Pritchard and Elizabeth Rogers prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Memphis, TN – "Major Stackz Street Gang" member Terrence Harper a/k/a "Red", 45, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine and heroin with intent to distribute. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, between February and November of 2017, Harper was an associate of a drug trafficking organization whose members identified themselves as "Major Stackz Entertainment." During this time period, Harper conspired with others to traffic several pounds of methamphetamine from the Los Angeles, California area to Memphis, Tennessee. Harper was also found to have bought and sold heroin, and in November of 2017, was found in possession of a large amount of heroin at a residence in Hickory Hill.

Members and associates of Major Stackz used firearms to protect their supply of drugs, supply routes, profits and distribution territory from competing drug trafficking organizations. The members and associates are from different, traditional street gangs, including the Young Mob, Vice Lords, Gangster Disciples, Kitchen Crips, and Bloods that have joined together to make money through criminal activity.

Symbolism played a large role in Major Stackz culture. The primary symbol with which the gang associated was the acronym "MSE" for "Major Stackz Entertainment." Shirts and social media posts containing words like "MSE," "Major Stack," or "Stackz," were also known as gang identifiers. Major Stackz started in and primarily operated out of the East Memphis area near the intersection of Kerr and Pillow Street in an area known to the locals as "DHG" or "Dope, hoes and guns."

On July 11, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Harper to 120 months in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Distribution of illegal narcotics is not a victimless crime. The drug seller, at every level of distribution, is at the root of the pervasive cycle of drug abuse. Measured by the harm it inflicts upon the addict, and, through him, upon society as a whole, drug dealing in its present epidemic proportions is a grave offense of high rank. ‘Red’ brought large quantities of meth and heroin into Memphis for resale, and will now be ‘stacked up’ with a long prison sentence for his harmful crimes."

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, Memphis Police Department, Multi Agency Gang Unit and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Dean DeCandia prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Jackson, TN – After a three day federal jury trial, a Hardin County man has been found guilty of illegal possession, manufacture and transfer of a destructive device. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the guilty verdict today.

According to information presented in court, on August 24, 2018, TBI Special Agents began investigating Jonathan Edward White, of Hardin County. During the course of the investigation, agents determined that White might be in possession of an explosive device. That same day, White met with agents working in an undercover capacity and provided them with a pipe bomb. Special Operations personnel from the Tennessee Highway Patrol responded and rendered the explosive device safe. Jonathan White was arrested without incident and charged with one count of Possession of a Prohibited Weapon under state law. In the resulting federal investigation, the ATF Explosives Enforcement Branch examined the device and determined it to be an improvised explosive bomb which qualifies as a destructive device, as defined by Title 26, USC, § 5845.

The federal indictment charged that White knowingly and unlawfully made, possessed, and transferred a prohibited destructive device, more commonly known as a pipe bomb, in violation of Title 26, USC, § 5861 and 5871.

Sentencing is set for October 10, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge J. Daniel Breen. White faces up to 10 years imprisonment; 3 years supervised release; and a $250,000 fine.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "This office, along with our law enforcement partners, takes all bomb threats seriously, and we are vigilant to protect and prevent property damage, bodily injury, and death from any explosive device in West Tennessee. We commend the quick, thorough, and coordinated response of all of the federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation, and we are pleased that this dangerous offender has been held accountable."

ATF Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson remarked, " ATF's priority to reduce violent crime in order to provide a safe environment for the community was evident as ATF's explosives experts working with our partners were instrumental in mitigating the potential destructive force this incident may have caused."

This case was investigated by the Hardin County Sheriff’s Office; Savannah Police Department; Tennessee Bureau of Investigation; Tennessee Highway Patrol; Tennessee Department of Public Safety and Homeland Security; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

This case is being prosecuted by the Eastern Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office on behalf of the government.

Jackson, TN – Rolando Lopez, 58, has been sentenced to life imprisonment on federal charges of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

This is the latest sentencing in a case involving multiple defendants including Saul Vega Flores, Virginia Torres, Ronald Lynn Parham, Daniel Ranger, Kennett Garrett, Tammy Ranger, Marcus Jones, and Xavier Demetrius James on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

According to information presented in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began an investigation into Rolando Lopez and his drug trafficking organization in March of 2017. Agents discovered that Lopez and other co-conspirators were trafficking in methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana and other illegal substances from Mexico to Tennessee. Investigators used "wiretaps" along with other surveillance, confidential sources, traffic stops, and search warrants to investigate this organization.

In April 2017, agents received information from a confidential informant regarding a home in Davidson County, Tennessee, where Lopez and his brother were conducting drug related activity. A search warrant was executed at the residence where over $500,000 in cash, a money counter, and a vacuum sealer were recovered. In November 2017, investigators through wiretap interceptions learned that Lopez arranged for a shipment of 20 kilograms of methamphetamine ice to be picked up by a co-conspirator in Atlanta, Georgia to be driven back to Tennessee. Investigators eventually seized the 20 kilograms of methamphetamine from this co-conspirator. In December 2017, investigators through wiretap interceptions and information received from confidential informants learned that Lopez was arranging a shipment of methamphetamine from Mexico to Tennessee.

The shipment was being transported by other co-conspirators in a 2004 Lincoln Navigator to the residence of a co-conspirator in the Western District of Tennessee, where the shipment was to be converted to powder form for distribution. Lopez directed other co-conspirators transporting the liquid methamphetamine to Tennessee to meet at the Days Inn, in West Memphis, Arkansas. Once the defendants began to transport the liquid methamphetamine into the Western District of Tennessee, investigators arranged for the Tennessee Highway Patrol to stop the Lincoln Navigator on Highway 51, in Obion County, Tennessee. During the search of the vehicle, agents discovered a large quantity of methamphetamine located in a hidden compartment. A DEA forensic laboratory examination revealed that the defendant and other co-conspirators were transporting 44.85 kilograms of 98% pure ice.

Lopez used other co-conspirators’ property located in the Western District of Tennessee to convert the liquid methamphetamine into a powdery substance. Lopez was held responsible for distributing 2,660,000 kilograms (converted drug weight) of methamphetamine within Tennessee. Lopez was obtaining the methamphetamine from a source in Mexico, where it was smuggled into the Western District. The United States argued that this was the largest drug trafficking organization known to be handled within the Western District.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Drug trafficking offenses are at the root of some of the gravest problems facing our country. The ‘fruit’ of the drug plague is everywhere; it fills our jails, our courts, our streets, and our nurseries. Accordingly, given that drug dealers themselves sentence many individuals to a lifetime of addiction and dependency, a life sentence for repeatedly dealing large quantities of drugs is a just and proper punishment in this case."

"The Drug Enforcement Administration and our law enforcement partners remain committed to targeting interstate methamphetamine traffickers contributing to the nation’s drug crisis," said Brett R. Pritts, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of DEA’s Nashville District Office. "I commend our law enforcement partners and the prosecutors for their extraordinary efforts in this case."

On July 9, 2019, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Thomas Anderson sentenced Lopez to life in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release.

This case was investigated by the Nashville, Jackson, Atlanta DEA offices, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, 23rd Judicial Drug Task Force, Metro Nashville Police Department, Perry County Sheriff’s Office, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Lawrenceburg Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Jackson Police Department, Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, and Obion County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – Daniel Castelo, 43, of Memphis was sentenced to 120 months in prison for his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, Castelo transported large shipments of cocaine, heroin, and marijuana, via 18-wheeler for his brother, Lorenzo Castelo’s drug trafficking organization. Castelo was charged with nine others in a 15-count superseding indictment on January 18, 2019. The indictment followed a six-month investigation involving agents of the FBI as well as other federal and state agencies in this joint operation.

On June 26, 2019, U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Castelo to 120 months imprisonment. He was also ordered to serve five years supervised release. Judge Lipman also sentenced his brother Lorenzo Castelo to 300 months in federal prison along with five years of supervised release on January 18, 2019.

This prosecution is part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF is a joint federal, state and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations, and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Distribution of illegal narcotics is not a victimless crime. In order to prevent needless addiction, injury, violence, and death in our communities, we must disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that deliver this deadly poison to citizens in West Tennessee. This significant sentencing of the leader of the organization will do just that, and I commend our federal and local law enforcement partners for their impactful work in this important case."

"This sentencing demonstrates the strength of joint local, state, and federal law enforcement efforts to investigate and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that seek to pollute our communities," said M.A. Myers, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Field Office of the federal Bureau of Investigation. "The FBI, along with all of our law enforcement partners, will continue to pursue and bring to justice anyone who engages in these crimes."

"Identifying and investigating drug trafficking organizations is one of Homeland Security Investigations major priorities to protect the public from the serious harm these criminals inflict without any regard for the violence and public health damage they cause," said John Condon, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville. "This case also illustrates the importance of collaborative working relationships between HSI and our federal, state and our local law enforcement partners to keep communities safe, and HSI is appreciative of their cooperation as well as the U.S. Attorney’s office in successfully bringing these individuals to justice."

MPD Director Michael Rallings said: "We will continue to work collective to identify and apprehend those who choose to bring illegal drugs through our city. We will not tolerate it and these criminals will be caught."

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Safe Streets Task Force; Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and the Memphis Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen and Gregory D. Allen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – After a three-week trial involving a total of 74 witnesses and more than 120 exhibits, a federal jury found five members of the Conservative Vice Lords Concrete Cartel criminal gang guilty of conspiracy to participate in racketeering activities, multiple armed pharmacy robberies, and drug trafficking conspiracy. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the guilty verdict today.

On May 31, 2018, a federal grand jury returned a 34-count indictment against 12 members of the Concrete Cartel, a subset of the Conservative Vice Lords criminal gang whose headquarters is located in Chicago. The Concrete Cartel and its members operate mainly in Memphis, Shelby County, Tennessee and North Mississippi. The indictment charged a RICO conspiracy, 10 separate Hobbs Act business robberies, and multiple counts of brandishing and discharging firearms during the commission of those crimes of violence. The indictment also charged conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute multiple controlled substances that were obtained as proceeds in the robberies. According to information presented in court, the members of the Concrete Cartel targeted and committed armed robberies of multiple CVS and Walgreens pharmacies, obtaining thousands of opioids for redistribution to members of their organization as well as the public to enrich themselves and the gang enterprise.

Seven of the twelve members previously pled guilty to the RICO conspiracy and other crimes charged. The five members who went to trial and were found guilty were high-ranking leaders in the organization, and included:

• Nernest Andre Nesby a/k/a/ "Neno," 25
• Markease Tyshawn Alexander a/k/a/ "Citi," 26
• Davante Levert Turner a/k/a/ "Star," 26
• Tondwin Tierre Lewis a/k/a "T-Luey," 26
• Ariq Rayford a/k/a/ "Curry," 22

One of the defendants was a Tennessee statewide leader and another was a citywide leader in the Conservative Vice Lords Concrete Cartel gang. The remaining defendants were branch leaders in the organization, claiming areas in East Memphis, Orange Mound and Whitehaven. This federal prosecution and guilty verdict is the result of an extensive investigation which began in 2015 by federal, state and local law enforcement officials into the criminal gang enterprise, and entailed the recovery or seizures of thousands of opioids and other controlled substances before the defendants distributed the drugs on the streets.

The defendants were found guilty on a total of 29 of the 34 charged counts. All of the defendants were found guilty of the RICO conspiracy and other charges in the indictment.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Dismantlement of criminal gangs is a top priority of this office and the Department of Justice, and this case represents the collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement to target and remove several significant violent leaders and participants in the Conservative Vice Lords organization. We are taking the fight to the gangs in West Tennessee, we are successfully punishing gang members for their criminal activity, and we are relentless in our resolve."

Sentencing will be set on a later date before U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker. Each of the defendants faces possible sentences of up to 20 years for each of the RICO conspiracy, Hobbs Act business robbery, and drug conspiracy counts, as well as consecutive mandatory minimum sentences of 7 years for brandishing a firearm and 10 years for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Multi-Agency Gang Unit (MGU) of the Memphis Police Department and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Whitmore and Raney Irwin are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – A local man has pleaded guilty to possession of firearm and drug trafficking. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

This case was set for a jury trial on June 24, 2019. However, halfway through the first day of trial, the defendant decided to plead guilty after the judge granted a pretrial motion in the favor of the United States and the United States subpoenaed a crucial eyewitness to the defendant's arrest and had him present outside the courtroom ready to testify.

According to information presented in court, on February 12, 2018, Memphis Police Department patrol officers saw a dark green Nissan Maxima parked and running in a stall of a car wash at 539 East Mallory. It was approximately 30 degrees outside and the car was not being washed. Two officers approached the car and smelled marijuana coming from the vehicle. As officers approached, they saw the driver, later identified as Marcus Franklin, 46, with a plastic bag of marijuana in his hand. He attempted to put the bag in his pocket. Officers asked him to give them the bag of marijuana, and he complied. Franklin was asked to step out of the vehicle and he initially complied.

As the officer placed one handcuff on Franklin, he fled from the scene. The two officers were able to catch the defendant a short distance away, but he resisted arrest and tried to grab the service weapon out of the holster of one of the officers. Franklin then fought his way back to the Maxima and grabbed a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol he kept on the driver's side floorboard. Officers gave commands to comply and the suspect was finally handcuffed and arrested.

The bag of marijuana weighed 16.3 grams. Officers also found a folded $1 bill containing a small amount of cocaine in the pants of one of the other occupants of the vehicle.

The defendant was a convicted felon at the time of these events. A special agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reviewed a description of the firearm seized in this case and determined that it was manufactured outside the State of Tennessee, and therefore at some point entered into interstate commerce.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Convicted felons who possess firearms are an inherent danger to the community, and in this case, Franklin continued to possess a firearm and illegal narcotics despite his prior felony conviction history. There is and ought to be a significant consequence for such recidivist criminal behavior, and this is one more armed offender that will be removed from our streets. Gun Crime is Max Time."

Sentencing is set for September 19, 2019 before U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker, where the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.

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

This case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department and Project Safe Neighborhoods.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. William Crow and Wendy Cornejo are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – Six Gangster Disciples, including the "Enforcer" for the State of Tennessee, have pled guilty to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the guilty pleas today.

These guilty pleas are the latest convictions in a large RICO conspiracy case, "Operation .38 Special", which was originally indicted in May, 2016, charging a total of 16 members of the Gangster Disciples criminal enterprise with racketeering. With the addition of these 6 recent guilty pleas, 14 of the 16 gang members have now been found guilty for their roles in the conspiracy. The following defendants pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Memphis over the last 2 weeks:

• Demarcus Crawford, 35, a/k/a "Trip," entered a guilty plea on June 7, 2019 to conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity. Crawford, during the time period covered in the superseding indictment, held the rank of Enforcer for the entire State of Tennessee for the Gangster Disciples.

• Shamar James, 40, a/k/a "Lionheart," entered his guilty plea to the racketeering charge on June 6, 2019. During the time period covered by the superseding indictment, he held various positions of authority for the Gangster Disciples criminal enterprise, including Governor of Memphis, First Coordinator of Memphis, and Event/Entertainment Coordinator.

• Demario Sprouse, 38, a/k/a "Taco," pled guilty on June 19, 2019 to the RICO conspiracy. Sprouse held the prior rank of Chief of Security for a section located within Memphis.

 

• Rico Harris, 46, a/k/a "Big Brim," and Denton Suggs, 43, a/k/a "Denton Morman," a/k/a "Denny Mo," a/k/a "Diddy Mo," both entered guilty pleas on June 7, 2019 to the RICO charge. They both had been members of a security team.

• Gerald Hampton, 33, a/k/a "G-30," who was also a member of a security team, entered his plea on June 13, 2019.

According to the superseding indictment, the defendants named in the RICO conspiracy committed attempted murders; robberies; assaults; distribution of large quantities of cocaine, crack and marijuana; firearms trafficking; kidnappings; intimidations of witnesses and victims; extortion; obstruction of justice; and other offenses in furtherance of the Gangster Disciples criminal enterprise and to promote and enhance the members’ position within the gang.

The leadership of the Gangster Disciples (GD) criminal enterprise is organized into different positions, including national board members; governors of governors who controlled multiple states or geographic regions; and governors, assistant governors, chief enforcers, chiefs of security, and security team members for each state or region within the state where the Gangster Disciples were active. They also have coordinators and leaders within each local group. To enforce discipline among Gangster Disciples and adherence to the criminal organization’s rules and structure, members and associates are routinely fined, beaten and even murdered for failing to follow the gang’s rules.

Other leaders and members of the Gangster Disciples have previously been sentenced for their roles in the RICO conspiracy, including: Byron Montrail Purdy, a/k/a "Lil B" or "Ghetto," 38, of Jackson, Tennessee, the GD Governor of Tennessee who received a sentence of 360 months; Derrick Kennedy Crumpton, a/k/a "38," 35, of Memphis, Tennessee, the GD Assistant Governor of Tennessee who was sentenced to 324 months; Henry Cooper, a/k/a Big Hen, 37, of Memphis, Tennessee, the GD Chief Regional Enforcer who received a sentence of 360 months; Tommy Earl Champion, Jr., a/k/a "Duct Tape," 29, of Jackson Tennessee, a GD Black Out Squad member who was sentenced to 360 months; and Daniel Lee Cole, a/k/a "D-Money," 38, a GD Assistant Governor in Jackson, Tennessee who received a sentence of 292 months.

According to the superseding indictment, the Gangster Disciples enterprise has a highly organized structure with a nationwide reach. In addition to Tennessee, the gang reportedly operates in more than 35 states.

United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Operation .38 Special demonstrates our ability and resolve to aggressively prosecute and hold accountable those who engage in organized criminal enterprises and gang conspiracies in furtherance of racketeering. This office is proud to work with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to disrupt the Gangster Disciples gang and punish their leaders and members for the violence and lawlessness that they perpetrate across West Tennessee. The message from these cases is clear: No matter what your role is in the conspiracy, or what your position,

title, or gang nickname is, if you are a member of a criminal gang, your days are numbered and there will be a reckoning."

The defendants are scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. as follows: Rico Harris on August 21, 2019; Shamar James on September 19, 2019; Denton Suggs on September 20, 2019; Demarcus Crawford on September 26, 2019; Gerald Hampton on September 27, 2019 and Demario Sprouse on October 3, 2019. Each defendant faces sentences of up to life in federal prison, not more than a $250,000 fine, plus 5 years supervised release along with a mandatory special assessment.

This prosecution was brought as part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program. OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations, and to diminish the violence and other criminal activity associated with the drug trade. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, money laundering, and violent organizations.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Tennessee Bureau of Investigation; JPD Gang Enforcement Team; Memphis Police Department; Shelby County Sheriff’s Office; 28th District West Tennessee Drug Task Force; 26th, 25th, and 30th Judicial District Attorney’s General’s Offices; Sheriff’s Offices for Tipton, DeSoto, Madison, and Fayette Counties; and the Police Departments of Bartlett, Germantown and Columbia.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Beth Boswell and Annie Christoff of the Western District of Tennessee and Trial Attorney Shauna Hale of the Criminal Division Organized Crime and Gang Section are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – After a four-day trial, a federal jury has convicted a local man of bank robbery and carjacking. D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney announced the guilty verdict today.

According to the information presented in court, on July 26, 2018, defendant Lorenzo Davis, 29, and two other males robbed a Memphis man at gunpoint. Davis then walked the victim two miles to an ATM machine and forced him to withdraw his last $40 at gunpoint. The next day, Lorenzo Davis committed a carjacking by shooting a Memphis man in the neck and taking his Toyota Solara.

On June 20, 2019, a federal jury convicted Davis of bank robbery, brandishing a firearm during a bank robbery, carjacking, and being a felon in possession of a firearm during both incidents.

Sentencing is set for October 2, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Mark Norris.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "This is precisely the type of violent gun offender that threatens lives and public safety in Memphis. These federal bank robbery, carjacking, and firearms charges are evidence of the aggressive approach taken by this office to remove the worst of the worst offenders from our streets. This jury verdict finding this dangerous criminal guilty of brazen and recidivist violent behavior demonstrates that the community is Fed Up with repeat offenders who have dedicated their lives to lawlessness and violence."

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Memphis Police Department Violent Crimes Unit.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth Rogers and Neal Oldham are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Memphis, TN – Memphis Goodwill Industries, Inc. will pay $150,000 to the United States to resolve allegations that it submitted claims that falsely certified compliance with regulations involving contracts it had entered into for services rendered to the Internal Revenue Service, the Department of Veterans Affairs and the General Services Administration pursuant to the AbilityOne Program.

To qualify for contracts administered by the AbilityOne Commission, Goodwill was required by federal regulation to employ disabled individuals for 75% of its direct labor hours. To maintain compliance, Goodwill was required to submit annual certifications certifying such compliance. The allegations were that Goodwill certified to the federal government that its direct labor hour’s figures were true and accurate when in fact the direct labor hours actually worked by disabled individuals were much lower.

The False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733, provides the United States with a cause of action against any person or entity that knowingly presents, or causes to be presented, a false or fraudulent claim for payment or approval.

“Protection of the United States Treasury against fraud, waste, and abuse is a top priority of this office and the Department of Justice.  False claims that defraud federal government agencies compromise and harm their respective abilities to employ disabled individuals in our communities, and must be exposed.  We are pleased to recover these funds for the fraud perpetrated against the United States, and hope that this settlement amount will send a significant deterrent message to other dishonest contractors,” said D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney.

"Organizations that contract with the federal government under the AbilityOne program are expected to fulfill the promises they make to the taxpayer and the disabled individuals the program is intended to employ." said Carol F. Ochoa, Inspector General for GSA.

“Fraud on the AbilityOne program harms inclusion of workers in the program as well as law-abiding AbilityOne contractors,” said Thomas Lehrich, Inspector General of the U.S. AbilityOne Commission. “We are committed to preserving the integrity of the AbilityOne program.  Working with DOJ and our partners, the Office of Inspector General will continue to protect the confidence and public trust in the largest employment program in the nation of blind and significantly disabled workers.”

Michael J. Missal, Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, stated, “This settlement sends a clear message to individuals and businesses that we will work with our law enforcement partners to vigorously investigate and expose false claims that compromise the integrity of programs designed to benefit veterans and their families.”  

This investigation was conducted by the Office of the Inspector General for the United States AbilityOne Commission, the Office of Inspector General for the General Services Administration, the Office of the Inspector General of the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee.

Assistant United States Attorneys Stuart J. Canale, Western District of Tennessee, and Trial Attorney Jennifer Chorpening, United States Department of Justice Civil Division, prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

 

Memphis, TN – D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced today that a federal grand jury has returned two indictments charging disbarred Memphis attorney Keith L. Dobbs, 39, with a total of sixty-seven federal felony violations. In addition, one indictment seeks the forfeiture of at least $406,533.00 in criminal proceeds.

According to the two indictments, Dobbs misappropriated funds from 26 victims who received veteran’s benefits and nine Social Security recipients. Dobbs acted as a fiduciary for these victims because they were unable to manage their benefits due to physical or mental disabilities. The indictments were the result of a joint investigation conducted by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Veterans Affairs and the Office of Inspector General for the Social Security Administration.

The VA Indictment

The first indictment, which was filed under seal earlier this year, charges Dobbs with 26 counts of mail fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 1341. This statute makes it a crime to utilize the U.S. Mail to execute a scheme to defraud people of money or property. Each violation of the statute is punishable by up to 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of no more than three years. Supervised release is a period of time in which a defendant is subject to supervision by the U.S. Probation Office following his or her release from prison. Dobbs is charged in 22 counts of the indictment with violating Title 38, United States Code, § 6101. This statute makes it a crime for someone serving as a fiduciary to embezzle benefits a veteran receives from the Department of Veterans Affairs. Each violation of this statute is punishable by up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of no more than three years.

According to the mail fraud indictment, Dobbs served as a paid fiduciary for several veterans who received benefits from the Department of Veterans Affairs ("the VA"). The indictment identifies 28 veterans for whom Dobbs served as the fiduciary. The VA manages programs that provide military veterans with pensions and disability benefits. When a veteran cannot manage his or her benefits due to "injury, disease, or infirmities of advanced age," the VA will appoint a "fiduciary" who is charged with managing the veteran’s benefits. An appointed fiduciary owes the VA and the beneficiary "the duties of good faith and candor." Under the regulations governing the VA’s fiduciary program, the fiduciary must use the VA benefits for the veteran’s care and protect the benefits from loss or diversion. The program’s regulations specifically provide that a fiduciary may not commingle the veteran’s funds with "the fiduciary’s own funds or the funds of any other beneficiary for whom the fiduciary has funds under management." The regulations require a fiduciary to file an annual accounting with the VA, and the accounting must include "copies of financial institution documents reflecting receipts, expenditures, and beginning and ending balances."

According to the mail fraud indictment, Dobbs used funds embezzled from the veterans’ accounts to pay his personal obligations, such as credit card bills and rent, and to purchase items, such as a BMW automobile. The indictment also notes that Dobbs would transfer money from the veterans’ accounts into accounts he controlled and use the transferred funds for his own benefit, and transfer funds from one veteran’s account to another veteran’s account to cover shortfalls. As part of the fraud scheme, Dobbs would alter bank statements to "disguise the true nature of certain transactions he conducted using the beneficiaries’ funds in their fiduciary accounts," and create documents such as "Certificate[s] as to Securities" and "Certificate[s] of Balance on Deposit and Authorization to Disclose Financial Records," that contained false statements. The indictment lists 26 separate mailings of false and altered documents to the VA’s Louisville Fiduciary Hub between June 3, 2014 and January 8, 2016.

The indictment also charges Dobbs with embezzling and misappropriating funds coming into his control as a VA fiduciary on 22 separate occasions between April 18, 2014 and July 13, 2015.

The Social Security Indictment

A second indictment recently returned by the federal grand jury charges Dobbs with 19 counts of converting the monthly Social Security benefit payments of nine benefit recipients in violation of Title 18, United States Code, § 408(a)(5). This statute makes it a crime for a person who is receiving Social Security benefits on behalf of another person to convert those benefits to their own use. As set forth in the indictment, Dobbs had access to the beneficiaries’ funds because he served as their representative payee. A violation of this statute is punishable by up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of no more than three years.

The indictment explains the particulars of the Social Security Administration’s "representative payee" program. If the Commissioner of the Social Security Administration concludes that the interest of a beneficiary would be served by paying the

beneficiary’s Social Security benefits to another person, the commissioner may certify payment of the benefits to a third person. The commissioner will make such a certification when he or she determines that a benefit recipient is "legally incompetent or mentally incapable of managing benefit payments" or "physically incapable of managing or directing the management of his or her benefit payments." The Social Security Administration refers to the third person to whom the beneficiary’s Social Security benefits are paid as a representative payee.

A representative payee must use the benefits for "the use and benefit" of the beneficiary, and keep the beneficiary’s funds separate from the representative payee’s funds. Benefit payments will be considered to have been used for the "use and benefit of the beneficiary if they are used for the beneficiary’s "current maintenance."" By regulation, the term "current maintenance" includes "costs incurred to obtain[] food, clothing, shelter, medical care, and personal comfort items" for the beneficiary. A person applying to serve as a representative payee must participate in a face-to-face interview with a representative from the Social Security Administration and must affirm that he or she will "use all payments made to me/my organization as the representative payee for the [beneficiary’s] current needs or (if not currently needed) then for the [beneficiary’s] future needs."

Dobbs applied to the Social Security Administration to be the representative payee for nine beneficiaries, and was appointed representative payee for each of the nine victims. According to the indictment, Dobbs converted the nine victims’ Social Security benefits to his own use by drawing checks on their accounts made payable to him; transferring funds from their accounts into an account that he controlled; and by using the funds in the victims’ accounts to make purchases and pay bills. The conversions charged in the indictment all involved monthly benefit payments and took place between August 9, 2015 and December 9, 2015.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "This offender used his fiduciary positions of trust to victimize vulnerable and disabled veterans for his own selfish gain and unjust enrichment. Such fraudulent schemes are particularly harmful and offensive, and must be exposed. We thank the VA OIG and the SSA OIG for their outstanding investigative work, and we look forward to achieving justice for the victims in this disturbing case."

Kim R. Lampkins, Special Agent in Charge of the VA Office of Inspector General’s Mid- Atlantic Field Office said, "The VA OIG is committed to pursuing those who have done harm to our deserving veterans and bringing those individuals to justice. VA OIG will pursue fraud, waste, and abuse that negatively affects our nation’s heroes."

Rodregas Owens, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Atlanta Field Division, said, "We are committed to pursuing those who violate the public trust by misusing funds while serving as representative payees for vulnerable Social Security beneficiaries. We will continue to uphold the integrity of Social Security’s programs, which are a lifeline for so many Americans and their families. I would like thank United States Attorney Michael Dunavant and his office for their support, and the Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General for its partnership, in bringing this individual to justice."

This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Murphy is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Jackson, TN – A Humboldt man has been sentenced to federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on March 25, 2018, Humboldt Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a Ford Mustang for speeding.  The occupants of the car where Damarcus Glenn, 19, Jordan Powell, 20, and two juveniles.  The officer smelled marijuana and conducted a search of the vehicle.  Under the driver’s seat where Damarcus Glenn was located was a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol.  Under the front passenger seat, where a juvenile was sitting, was another .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol.  The juvenile had 21.4 grams of marijuana in his possession and Jordan Powell had a 9mm pistol in his waistband. 

The juveniles and Jordan Powell were not convicted felons.  Glenn and Powell are members of the 83rd Criminal Gang.   In his statement to law enforcement, Jordan Powell attempted to take possession of the two pistols, but could only describe the pistol in his waistband.  Correctional officers advised agents that Glenn and Powell were trying to get a juvenile to take the gun charge because Glenn was a felon. 

On April 17, 2018, the United States Marshals Service was serving an arrest warrant for Damarcus Glenn in Humboldt, TN for violation of probation.  The renter of the apartment gave verbal consent for law enforcement to search the apartment.  The U.S. Marshals located Damarcus Glenn and Jordan Powell in a bedroom.  A 9mm Springfield Armory pistol was seen in plain view on the bed.  The resident of the home denied ownership of the pistol as well.  After both Powell and Glenn denied ownership of the gun, agents overheard Glenn and Powell speaking to each other through the jail cells in the Humboldt Police Department.  An agent could hear Glenn trying to get Powell to take the charge for him.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: “Now more than ever, it is crucial that we remove firearms from dangerous and prohibited people, and remove violent gang offenders with firearms from our communities.  This conviction and sentence demonstrates our commitment to use all of the laws provided by Congress to target and incapacitate violent gang members with guns before they pull the trigger.”

On June 11, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Glenn to 46 months in federal prison followed by 3 years supervised release.  Glenn also faces charges in Rutherford County for violation of probation and charges in Gibson County for attempted first-degree murder in a 2015 shooting incident.

This case was investigated by the Humboldt Police Department; 28th, 29th and 30th Judicial District West Tennessee Violent Crimes and Drug Task Force; and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Hillary Lawler Parham prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN - On June 3, 2019, U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant was among 45 Class VI members to complete and graduate from the Leadership Tennessee Signature Program. Starting in August, 2018, Class VI members participated in a ten month, five session course of study that allowed them to visit each region of the state, engage in analytical conversations of importance to critical state issues, learn from state and national experts on those issues, and experience the cultural diversity of the region. The study of those issues by Leadership Tennessee members resulted in increased statewide networking, collaborative conversations, and concrete plans to continue that dialogue and actions beyond the yearlong commitment.

The 45 Class VI members represented each geographic region of the state, including the communities of Memphis, Martin, Jackson, Nashville, Clarksville, Murfreesboro, Knoxville, Kingsport, Johnson City and Chattanooga. Professional sectors represented included healthcare, education, economic development, government, tourism and agriculture.

Finishing its sixth year, Leadership Tennessee selects a new class of leaders annually to visit different regions and communities of Tennessee, learning best practices and analyzing important issues faced by Tennesseans. To date, Leadership Tennessee has built a network of over 200 leaders across the state.

As part of its mission to foster dialogue and increase connection on issues of statewide importance, Leadership Tennessee hosted Sam Quinones, author of "Dreamland: The True Tale of America’s Opiate Epidemic" in Kingsport and Knoxville in November, 2018, and also co-hosted the West Tennessee Opioid Summit in Memphis in April, 2019, to discuss the opioid crisis and create learning

and community collaboration to combat the epidemic and support those at risk of or recovering from addiction. In addition, throughout the ten month sessions, Class VI members focused on the issues of education and workforce development, access to healthcare, urban blight and poverty, rural economic development, public safety, and civic engagement.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Being selected to participate in the Leadership Tennessee Signature Program was a high honor for me, and I was thankful to join so many other talented and dedicated leaders in productive dialogue and learning in order to tackle the urgent challenges in our state. I am confident that the connections made and insights gained will help me better represent and protect the citizens of the Western District of Tennessee."

Leadership Tennessee, an initiative of the College of Leadership & Public Service at Lipscomb University, fosters collaborative, non-partisan dialogue on issues of state importance, connecting a network of diverse leaders and engaged citizens from rural and urban communities across Tennessee.

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Jackson, TN – Kenneth Garrett, 62, has been sentenced to 200 months imprisonment on federal charges of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

This is the latest sentencing in a case involving multiple defendants including Rolando Lopez, Saul Vega Flores, Virginia Torres, Ronald Lynn Parham, Tammy Ranger, Marcus Jones, and Xavier Demetrius James on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

According to information presented in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began an investigation into Rolando Lopez and his drug trafficking organization. Agents discovered that Lopez and other co-conspirators were trafficking in methamphetamine, heroin, marijuana and other illegal substances from Mexico to Tennessee. Investigators used "wiretaps" along with surveillance, confidential sources, traffic stops, and search warrants to investigate this organization.

In April, 2017, agents received information from a confidential informant regarding a home in Davidson County, Tennessee, where Lopez and his brother, were conducting drug related activity. A search warrant was executed at the residence where over $500,000 in cash, a money counter, and a vacuum sealer were recovered. In December 2017, investigators through wiretap interceptions and information received from confidential informants learned that Lopez was arranging a shipment of methamphetamine from Mexico to Tennessee.

The shipment was being transported by other co-conspirators in a 2004 Lincoln Navigator to the residence of a co-conspirator in theWestern District of Tennessee, where the shipment was to be converted to powder form for distribution. Kenneth Garrett met with other co-conspirators transporting the liquid methamphetamine at the Days Inn in

West Memphis, Arkansas. Once the defendants began to transport the liquid methamphetamine into the Western District of Tennessee, investigators arranged for the Tennessee Highway Patrol to stop the Lincoln Navigator on Highway 51 in Obion County, Tennessee. During the search of the vehicle, agents discovered a large quantity of methamphetamine located in a hidden compartment. A DEA forensic laboratory examination revealed that the defendant and other co-conspirators were transporting 44.85 kilograms of 98% pure ice.

Garrett allowed other co-conspirators to use his garage to store methamphetamine. Garrett was paid by the organization between $2,000 to $8,000 per methamphetamine load. At the garage, Garrett assisted in loading methamphetamine in gas tanks and the vehicle batteries for transportation.

Kenneth Garrett was attributed with a total of 97.17 kilograms of actual methamphetamine.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said: "Use and trafficking of methamphetamine continues to destroy lives, families, and communities across West Tennessee. The joint cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement in this case demonstrates our ability and resolve to dismantle drug trafficking organizations, including those that distribute narcotics from locations outside the country. The significant sentence in this case sends a clear message to those drug dealers who distribute poison in West Tennessee: You cannot prey upon our citizens for your selfish personal gain with impunity; there will be a reckoning."

On June 7, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Garrett to 200 months in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Tennessee Bureau of Investigation, 23rd Judicial Drug Task Force, Metro Nashville Police Department, Perry County, Tennessee Highway Patrol, Lawrenceburg Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Obion County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Jackson, TN – Christino Alcazar-Ortiz, 37 and Armando Alcazar-Ortiz, 40, of Union City were both sentenced to 120 months imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and Illegal Reentry into the United States after having been previously deported. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentences today.

According to information presented in court, beginning in April, 2017, the Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) and Union City Police Department became aware of an ongoing drug trafficking organization in the West Tennessee area, specifically Obion County, Tennessee. The investigation, which lasted approximately one year, revealed that the organization was trafficking crystal methamphetamine (ice) from multiple residential locations within Union City and Jackson, Tennessee. As a result, law enforcement officers utilized confidential informants and electronic surveillance to include wiretaps on phones used by the defendants.

A total of six controlled drug purchases were made from Christino and Armando Alcazar-Ortiz. Christino Alcazar-Ortiz distributed actual methamphetamine from the Mi Tierra Caliente Restaurant in Union City, while Armando Alcazar-Ortiz distributed actual methamphetamine from his place of employment in Jackson, Tennessee. The methamphetamine (ice) recovered was tested at (DEA) laboratories and was determined to range from 95% to 99% pure crystal methamphetamine. The investigation determined that Christino Alcazar-Ortiz was responsible for the distribution of over 409 grams of ice and Armando Alcazar-Ortiz for the distribution of over 167 grams of ice during the conspiracy.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "This case combines two of the top priorities of the Department of Justice: illegal drug trafficking and criminal immigration enforcement. We work with our local and federal law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate

and prosecute any and all suppliers that distribute illegal drugs in West Tennessee. At the same time, we work to identify, prosecute, and remove persons who violate our sovereign immigration laws, and our work focuses on criminal re-entry cases that will further deter and reduce illegality by criminal aliens. Clearly, these offenders posed a significant danger to public safety in Obion County and West Tennessee by their distribution of pure methamphetamine into the community, and will now serve long prison sentences as a result."

On August 20, 2018, a federal grand jury returned a three-count indictment against Christino Alcazar-Ortiz and Armando Alcazar-Ortiz charging each with conspiracy to distribute actual methamphetamine and Illegal Reentry after deportation.

On June 6, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge J. Daniel Breen sentenced both defendants to 120 months imprisonment followed by five years’ supervised release.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Union City Police Department and Homeland Security (ICE).

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – After a two-day trial, a federal jury convicted a local man of being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the guilty verdict today.

According to information presented in court, Stephen Derring, 47, was charged in a one-count indictment with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Derring was involved in a physical altercation with patrons outside of Ralph’s Bar and Grill located at 5162 Millbranch Road in Memphis, Tennessee. After the physical altercation, Derring drove to a nearby apartment complex and returned with a firearm. Derring brandished the firearm and fired a shot before fleeing the scene back to the apartment complex. Law enforcement arrested Derring and recovered the firearm after his attempt to evade police.

Sentencing is set for September 19, 2019 before U.S. District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr., where the defendant faces a possible sentence of up to ten years in federal prison.

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

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Under our PSN initiative, we focus on removing firearms from the hands of prohibited persons, and removing dangerous felons from our streets. Clearly, this felon had no hesitation in committing a violent crime with a firearm,

and he will now be removed from our community for up to 10 years. We are FED UP. Gun Crime is Max Time."

The case was investigated by the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Task Force, which includes the U.S. Attorney’s Office; the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Memphis Police Department; and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, who have all joined together to address gun-related crimes through targeted investigations and aggressive prosecution.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Marques Young is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – A local man has been sentenced to federal prison for making false statements on an ATF Federal Background Check Form while attempting to purchase a firearm, and for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence in the "lie-and-try" case today.

According to information presented in court, on December 2, 2017, Everette Alexander, 48, attempted to purchase a Cobra .380 handgun from Flash Pawn. Alexander completed ATF Background Check Form 4473, falsely indicating he was not a convicted felon. The Tennessee Instant Check System (TICS) denied the transaction. Alexander appealed TICS’ decision, and was given a conditional proceed and paid $50 cash toward the purchase. On December 16, 2017, Alexander returned to Flash Pawn and paid $ 195.71 to finalize the purchase, and took possession of the firearm.

On December 8, 2017, TICS faxed a form to the Shelby County General Sessions and Criminal Court Clerk’s Office to determine if Alexander was a prohibited person due to a prior conviction. On January 31, 2018, Shelby County Criminal Court Clerk’s Office responded indicating that Alexander had a felony conviction in 1995 for possession of marijuana with intent to sell.

ATF received notice on February 12, 2018, that TICS delayed denial for Alexander. ATF law enforcement notified Alexander and gave him the option to transfer the gun or return it to Flash Pawn. Alexander agreed to return the gun to Flash Pawn. Although ATF arranged to have Alexander return the firearm, he never arrived to return the firearm. After evading law enforcement, Alexander finally returned the firearm to Flash Pawn and received store credit for the purchase.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Prosecutions of violent crimes must be paired with proactive prevention efforts to keep guns out of the hands of criminals and other prohibited persons. A valuable tool in this prevention effort is the ATF Background Check Form 4473, which must be completed before a federally licensed firearms dealer sells or transfers a firearm. Criminals and other prohibited persons who attempt to thwart the background check process by lying on the required forms threaten to undermine this important crime prevention tool, and such conduct cannot be tolerated. Let this serve as a warning: This office will vigorously prosecute and hold accountable any prohibited persons who attempt to illegally obtain a firearm in these ‘lie-and-try’ cases."

On June 5, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Mark Norris sentenced Alexander to 10 months imprisonment followed by 2 years supervised release.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) investigated this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney P. Neal Oldham prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Jackson, TN – Daniel Ranger, 33, has been sentenced to 240months imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine, aiding and abetting the distribution and attempted distribution of a detectable amount of Fentanyl and being a felon in possession of firearms. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

This is the latest sentencing in a case involving multiple defendants including Rolando Lopez, Saul Vega Flores, Virginia Torres, Kenneth Edward Garrett, Ronald Lynn Parham, Tammy Ranger, Marcus Jones, and Xavier Demetrius James for charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.

According to information presented in court, on February 28, 2017, officers with the Lawrenceburg Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle operated by Ranger. Ranger was found to be in possession of various items located throughout the vehicle to include: a Taurus 9mm handgun, a ballistics vest, three cellular phones, 5.5 grams of methamphetamine/ice and $10,241 in cash. On October 7, 2017, Ranger was again stopped operating a motor vehicle while having a suspended driver’s license. The Perry County Sheriff’s Office searched the vehicle and recovered $98,360 in cash, 37 sildenafil tablets, 50 tadalafil tablets, and a drug ledger. After deputies removed Daniel Ranger from their patrol vehicle, they found a $5 bill, a syringe, and 2.4 grams of methamphetamine/ice in the backseat.

On October 24, 2017, the Lewis County Sheriff’s Office responded to a call regarding an automobile wreck. The caller advised that a vehicle with front end damage was located in the ditch. Daniel Ranger was identified exiting the scene of the accident. As officers arrived, they began investigating the car crash and observed a blue cooler in the tree line. The cooler contained 222 grams of methamphetamine at 95% purity, 20.15 grams of fentanyl/heroin, a small amount of cocaine, and numerous pills. Also recovered was $20,000 in cash, 195 grams of marijuana, and a drug ledger that listed prices based on drug quantity and money owed by customers.

Later that same day, investigators executed a search warrant at 3439 Red Bank Creek Road in Lobelville, Tennessee, the residence of Daniel Ranger and Tammy Ranger. Investigators found 1.51 kilograms of marijuana in a trash bag in the kitchen. They also located .78 kilograms of methamphetamine/ice and 260 grams of heroin in the dishwasher.

On October 28, 2017, after receiving further information regarding additional narcotics, U.S. currency, and firearms that were still either in the home or on the property, investigators executed a second search warrant at Daniel Ranger and Tammy Ranger’s residence. Inside the residence, investigators found an additional set of digital scales, and assorted pills in sample packs. In a trailer behind the residence, officers located another assortment of sample packs of pills and a Glock pistol case with a 9mm magazine, a Remington five-round magazine, fourteen .223 rounds in a plastic clip, and ten 12-gauge shotgun shells.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Fentanyl and Methamphetamine are deadly drugs that destroy lives, and the substantial quantity of illegal narcotics possessed by the defendant for resale could have caused countless injuries and deaths. This armed recidivist drug dealer will now have to pay for his crimes with a 20 year federal prison sentence."

During his guilty plea, Ranger was held accountable for 963.9 grams of actual methamphetamine, 228.15 grams of heroin/fentanyl, and 1,480 grams of marijuana.

On May 31, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Thomas Anderson sentenced Ranger to 240 months in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) – Nashville, Jackson, Knoxville, Atlanta; Tennessee Bureau of Investigation; 23rd Judicial Drug Task Force; Metro Nashville Police Department; Jackson Police Department; Carroll County Sheriff’s Office; Madison County Sheriff’s Office; Lewis County Sheriff’s Office; Perry County Sheriff’s Office; Tennessee Highway Patrol; Lawrenceburg Police Department; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Knox County Sheriff’s Office and Obion County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Jackson, TN – A Jackson man has been sentenced to 80 months in federal prison for distributing between 100 and 400 grams of a heroin and fentanyl mixture to residents of Gibson and Madison Counties. This mixture caused at least two users to overdose, but survive. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, in early 2018, Stephen Thompson, 67, admitted that he distributed at least 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance that contained a detectable amount of heroin, that he knew that the substance was a mixture that contained a detectable amount of heroin and that he did distribute the mixture.

On April 16, 2018, a federal grand jury then returned an 8-count indictment against Thompson for distributing and possessing a heroin and fentanyl mixture. This mixture was being distributed to buyers from the Gibson and Madison County areas.

On March 1, 2019, Chief U.S. District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced Thompson to federal prison for 80 months followed by 48 months of supervised release.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Our nation, state, and district are suffering from the opioid epidemic, causing increases in drug trafficking, violence, addiction, and overdoses that are tearing families and communities apart. The U.S. Attorney’s Office has developed a district-specific strategy to prioritize and aggressively prosecute cases involving heroin and fentanyl distribution causing overdoses, and this case demonstrates the significant penalty that we will use to hold dealers accountable and deter others from selling poison to our citizens. We commend the outstanding investigative work of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, and we hope this sentence will send a strong message."

Deputy Director Johnie Carter of the West Tennessee Drug Task Force said, "If you think that you can run outside of our normal area of operation and hide in a big city and then sell drugs back into it, you really need to think again. We have state jurisdictional authority and we have forged strong partnerships with many amazing agencies such as the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Jackson-Metro Narcotics and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. We will find you and we will bring you to justice."

This case was investigated by the West Tennessee Violent Crime and Drug Task Force, Jackson-Madison County Metro Narcotics and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Hillary Parham prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

If you have information about drug sales in the 28th Judicial District please contact the 28th Judicial District Drug Task Force at 731-784-0555. Caller I.D. is not used and callers can remain anonymous. You may also call Crime-Stoppers at 731-424-Tips.

The 28th Judicial Drug Task Force is comprised of officers assigned full-time from the Gibson, Crockett and Haywood County Sheriff’s Offices and the Humboldt, Milan and Trenton Police Departments.

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Memphis, TN – A local man has been sentenced to federal prison for tampering with consumer products. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, in 2014, Gregory Stanton, 49, worked at a food manufacturing plant in Memphis. Stanton made a video recording of himself tampering with the production line at the plant. The defendant then uploaded the video to the internet in 2016.

On September 11, 2018, a federal grand jury returned an indictment against Stanton for tainting consumer products with the intent to cause serious injury to the business of any person.

On May 24, 2019, U.S. District Court Judge Jon P. McCalla sentenced Stanton to 10 months in federal prison and ordered him to pay $10,000 in restitution.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "American citizens and consumers rely upon food manufacturers engaged in interstate commerce to provide them with safe and consistent products. Unfortunately, this defendant betrayed that trust by tampering with and tainting food products. We commend the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for their investigation in this matter, and we are pleased that the defendant has been held accountable for his criminal conduct."

"Americans expect and deserve the highest standards of food safety and wholesomeness, and the integrity of the U.S. food supply is too important to be thwarted by the illicit acts of any individual," said Acting Special Agent in Charge H. Peter Kuehl, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Miami Field Office. "FDA remains fully committed to the vigorous prosecution of criminals who tamper with or taint the U.S. food supply in any manner."

This case was investigated by Special Agent Brian Kriplean, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Tony Arvin prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Jackson, TN – Robert Newsome, 36, has been sentenced to 220 months imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the sentence today.

This is the latest sentencing in a case involving multiple defendants including Bernard Cooper, Courtney Cooper, Brandon Weddle, Stephen Williams, Morgan Bond, and Ronricus Chapman on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Each defendant has now pled guilty.

According to information presented in court, on December 2, 2015 officers conducted an undercover drug purchase from a co-defendant who was supplied with 28.4 grams of actual methamphetamine. The methamphetamine has a purity level of 98.7 percent. Newsome also aided co-defendants in the packaging of four ounces of actual methamphetamine into smaller amounts for resale. The investigation determined that Newsome was responsible for distributing a total amount of marijuana equivalency of 12,128.94 kilograms. This amount is the result of distributing methamphetamine, cocaine and marijuana.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Methamphetamine that is trafficked in and through West Tennessee is increasing in dangerous purity, and continues to destroy individuals, families, and communities. As a result of this successful conspiracy investigation and prosecution, 7 dangerous drug dealers have now received total combined sentences exceeding 132 years in prison, and West Tennessee is a safer place because they have been removed from our streets."

On May 17, 2019, U.S. District Court Chief Judge Thomas Anderson sentenced Robert Newsome to 220 months in federal prison followed by 5 years supervised release. Facts revealed during the hearing determined that Newsome fled the state for about one year, after learning that the United States had an arrest warrant for him for conspiracy. Judge Anderson found that Newsom qualified as a career offender. He was the last defendant to plead guilty. The defendants in this case received the following sentences: Bernard Cooper was sentenced to 220 months; Courtney Cooper sentenced to 120 months; Brandon Weddle sentenced to 121 months; Morgan Bond sentenced to 360 months and Ronricus Chapman received 188 months and Stephen Williams sentenced to 360 months in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Jackson Metro Narcotics, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – Horn Lake resident Michael D. Love, 45, has been found guilty of kidnapping and raping six Memphis women, and attempting to kidnap and rape an seventh, over a period of seven years. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the guilty verdict today.

The evidence presented in federal district court during a six-day trial demonstrated that between 2008 and 2015, Love traveled from Mississippi to Tennessee to find or meet a woman, hold her against her will, engage in forced sexual intercourse, and abandon her in a deserted part of the city.

The testimony at trial revealed that some of Love's victims were chosen at random and abducted. Other victims met Love, who used a false identity, through social media and chat lines. But in every case, Love took his victims to unlit dead-end coves or uninhabited industrial areas. Each victim testified that she was raped before or after being forced out of Love's car, and that as soon as he was finished, Love got in his car and sped off, leaving her without her purse, wallet, cell phone, or other personal items. One of the victims was a minor. Love was also convicted of brandishing a firearm during one of the sexual assaults. All victims reported the crimes to the police, and went to the Rape Crisis Center for treatment and the collection of DNA evidence.

Love's cases were not linked until he was arrested in 2015 and a sample of his DNA was taken as part of the arrest. A profile developed from that sample linked Love to several unsolved rape cases dating back to 2008.

A renewed effort to test all sexual assault kits (or "rape kits") for DNA evidence is ongoing. Profiles developed from the testing compared to existing DNA profiles in the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS). CODIS is a national database designed to help identify suspects in unsolved cases. Biological evidence collected during examination of a sexual assault victim is preserved in a sexual assault kit, and ultimately, sent to a laboratory for analysis. Once a DNA profile is developed, it is placed into CODIS and regularly compared to profiles already on file. Memphis Police Department's Sex Crimes Bureau, DNA Cold Case Unit, developed Love as a suspect in these seven cases in part, through use of DNA and CODIS technology.

Love also has matters pending in Shelby County Criminal Court, where he has been charged with rape, aggravated rape, aggravated kidnapping, criminal attempt - kidnapping, and robbery.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "The horrific physical violence, sexual abuse, and emotional torment suffered by the victims in this case cannot be undone, but this guilty verdict ensures that this violent and evil sexual predator will face significant consequences for his depraved actions. As a result of the outstanding investigative work of the MPD and the FBI, as well as the excellent trial presentation by our federal and state prosecutors, these victims have seen their cases solved, and justice has been achieved. "

"This investigation exemplifies the dedication of law enforcement to continue to diligently work cases, even after the cases go cold, to ensure that criminals are held accountable for their crimes," said M.A. Myers, Special Agent in Charge Memphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. "This verdict would not have been possible without the cooperative efforts of all of the law enforcement agencies and the prosecutive team, who worked tirelessly to ensure that the victims were not forgotten and that justice was served."

MPD Director Michael Rallings said, "This continues to demonstrate the importance of our partnership with other agencies as we move through the investigations generated by the DNA Unit of the Memphis Police Department. It takes everyone working together with the victims to achieve these results."

Love is set for sentencing on August 15, 2019, before U.S. District Court Judge Sheryl H. Lipman, where he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 27 years and up to life imprisonment.

The Memphis Police Department (Sex Crimes, DNA Cold Case Unit); FBI and the Shelby County District Attorney’s Office investigated this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Ireland and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryce Phillips are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Jackson, TN – A Madison County man has pled guilty to committing violent crimes in aid of racketeering, distribution of marijuana and firearms violations. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the guilty plea today.

On April 17, 2017, Dontoreus Douglas, aka "D.T." 32, was indicted in the Western District of Tennessee on four counts of violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity (VICAR). Each count is based upon the attempted murder of four different victims on June 12, 2012. Each of the VICAR counts has a corresponding count for using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. There is also one count for being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to the indictment, Douglas and other members and associates of the Gangster Disciples engaged in narcotics distribution, firearms trafficking, and acts of violence, involving murder, attempted murder and assault.

The Gangster Disciples enterprise has a highly organized structure with nationwide reach. As of the date of the indictment, the Gangster Disciples were active in 35 states. It is further alleged in the indictment that Douglas committed the attempted murders for the purpose of gaining entrance to or maintaining or increasing position within the Gangster Disciples.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Dismantlement of criminal gangs is a top priority of the Department of Justice, and this case represents the collaborative efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement to target and remove a significant violent participant in the Gangster Disciples organization. D.T. will now be removed from the streets, and will serve a significant sentence for his violent crimes. We are taking the fight to the gangs in West Tennessee, and we are relentless in our resolve."

For the four counts of violent crime in aid of racketeering activity, the maximum penalty is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Each of the using and carrying a firearm in relation of a crime of violence counts has a potential penalty of not less than 10 years, consecutive to the respective VICAR counts.

Douglas is presently in federal custody for charges that are pending from an indictment returned against him in June 2016. That indictment alleges charges of possession of marijuana with intent to distribute, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.

Sentencing is scheduled for August 13, 2019 before U.S. Chief District Judge S. Thomas Anderson.

This case was investigated by the Alcohol, Tobacco, Explosives and Firearms (ATF); Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police Department’s Gang Enforcement Unit.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Beth Boswell and Hillary Parham are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

Memphis, TN –Representatives from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Tennessee, Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office, the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), and the Memphis Police Department (MPD) today announced a reward of up to $100,000 in a renewed effort to gain additional information about the 2001 unsolved murder of U.S. Postal Service Contract Driver Larry Vinson.

On January 2, 2001, between approximately 11:15 pm and 11:30 pm, Larry Vinson was murdered outside the United States Postal Service Mail Annex, which at the time was located near the airport at 3510 Winchester Road, Memphis, Tennessee. Investigators determined that Vinson was murdered during the commission of a robbery.

Because of potential new leads which have recently been developed, as well as continuing advances in DNA technology, U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, Shelby County District Attorney General Amy Weirich along with other partners, are announcing the availability of up to $100,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person (s) responsible for this crime. Investigators are confident there are members of the public who can provide critical information to help solve this murder of Larry Vinson.

Anyone with information about the January 2, 2001, murder of Postal Contract Driver Larry Vinson at 3510 Winchester Road, should call the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455 or Memphis Crime Stoppers at 901-528-CASH.

Larry Vinson

​ Reward Poster Larry Vinson case 4-17-19.pdf​

 

Memphis, TN – A Tipton County woman has been sentenced to 51 months in federal prison for fraud. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, in 2017, Cynthia Shellenberger, 52, was hired by Dozertrax USA of Drummonds, Tennessee as an office manager/bookkeeper. Between May of 2017 and March of 2018, Shellenberger systematically defrauded the company of $164, 761 by using company funds to pay for her personal expenses. Company owners Ron and Sherry Clowes uncovered the fraud when Shellenberger was out of the office on sick leave.

On May 14, 2019, during the sentencing hearing before U.S. District Court Judge John Fowlkes Jr., Sherry Clowes informed the judge that due to the fraud, she and her husband are struggling to keep the company operating. Shellenberger has a lengthy history of theft and fraud convictions. Judge Fowlkes sentenced Shellenberger to 51 months' of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. As a condition of her release, Shellenberger was ordered to make full restitution to the company.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Financial fraud can happen anywhere, and can be devastating to local businesses. The defendant used her position of trust and authority to steal proceeds for her personal benefit, and her dishonesty has been exposed. We are pleased that justice has been achieved on behalf of the victims, and we commend the FBI and TCSO for their outstanding investigation in this disappointing case. Wherever fraud occurs in the Western District of Tennessee, this office will be prepared to hold offenders accountable."

The FBI and Tipton County Sheriff’s Office investigated this case.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David Pritchard prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Memphis, TN – U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal police officers on the occasion of National Police Week, which is being observed Sunday, May 12 to Saturday, May 18, 2019.

In October 1962, Congress enacted a joint resolution, which the President signed, declaring May 15th as National Peace Officers Memorial Day to honor law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. The resolution also created National Police Week as an annual tribute to law enforcement service and sacrifice.

U.S. Attorney Dunavant said, "During Police week, our nation celebrates the contribution of police officers from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment in keeping our communities safe. As the United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, I want to acknowledge the work performed by federal, state, local and tribal law enforcement, who often face uncertain and dangerous situations without question and without expectation of thanks. We want them to know they have our unwavering support and appreciation."

According to statistics reported to the FBI, 106 law enforcement officers were killed in line-of-duty incidents in 2018.

The names of all 106 fallen officers nationwide will be formally dedicated on the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, DC, during the 31st Annual Candlelight Vigil on the evening of May 13, 2019. The Candlelight Vigil is one of many commemorative events taking place in the nation’s capital during National Police Week 2019.

For more information about other National Police Week events, please visit www.policeweek.org.

Memphis, TN – Two individuals pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin and methamphetamine and distribution of heroin and methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the plea today.

According to information presented in court, on October 22, 2018, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration, conducted an operation to capture a drug trafficking organization responsible for bringing massive quantities of methamphetamine and heroin to the Memphis area. On that date, law enforcement determined the location of a large-scale drug transaction taking place in Cordova. The agents had previously identified suspects Fatimadeniz Diaz, 33, who is also an illegal alien, and Steven Espinoza Diaz, 26, as the traffickers. After brief surveillance, agents were able to interrupt the drug deal and arrest both suspects. They then located two separate bags containing 62 pounds of methamphetamine and 750 grams of heroin.

On May 2, 2019, both Fatimadeniz Diaz and Steven Espinoza Diaz pleaded guilty to charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin; and distribution of methamphetamine and heroin.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Distribution of illegal narcotics is not a victimless crime. In order to prevent needless addiction, injury, violence, and death in our communities, we must disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that deliver this deadly poison to citizens in West Tennessee. These traffickers brought large quantities of meth and heroin into Memphis for resale, and will now reap long prison sentences for their harmful crimes."

Sentencing is scheduled for August 1, 2019 before U.S. District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker. Each defendant faces a mandatory minimumsentence of at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Investigations.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Griffith is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – A former Shelby County Sheriff’s Corrections Deputy has been indicted on federal drug charges. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the indictment today.

Marcus Green, 37, who is currently on federal supervised release, has been indicted on new drug charges. In 2015, Green was charged with three counts of attempting to possess Schedule II narcotics with the intent to distribute. Green devised a scheme to smuggle narcotics into the county jail at 201 Poplar in exchange for money.

On July 21, 2015, Green pled guilty to count one of the indictment. He was charged with attempting to possess Schedule II narcotics with intent to distribute. On November 24, 2015, U.S. District Court Judge Jon Phipps McCalla sentenced Green to 12 months and one day of imprisonment and two years of supervised release. Due to a supervised release violation, Green’s supervised release was extended for a year.

On April 3, 2019, while conducting a home check at Green’s residence during "Operation Crime Driver", a U.S. Probation Officer notified the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office about the strong odor of marijuana during the home check. That same day, Tipton County officers, with search warrant in-hand, conducted a search at Green’s residence and discovered 745 grams of marijuana packaged in a number of bags, digital scales, plastic baggies and $6,627 in U.S. currency.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Being a former law enforcement officer and having previously been convicted of a drug offense, this defendant should have known better than to continue his criminal conduct. Unfortunately, he chose to reoffend while on supervised release. This is exactly the type of recidivist behavior that Operation Crime Driver was designed to detect and apprehend, and I commend the good work of our law enforcement partners in Tipton County."

On May 1, 2019, a criminal complaint charging Green with distribution and possession of a controlled substance was filed. A federal grand jury returned an indictment against him on May 7, 2019. This offense is punishable by imprisonment of up to five years in federal prison, a fine of $250,000, and a two-year term of supervised release.

The case was investigated by the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Hord is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.

The charges and the allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

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Memphis, TN – After a four-day jury trial, Lamar Clancy,26, was found guilty on a two-count indictment for attempting to rob the Boost Mobile Store at 4684 Millbranch. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the conviction today.

According to information presented at trial, Clancy and another man entered the store wearing masks and pointing handguns at store employees. Two of the store employees drew their firearms to defend against the shots fired by Clancy and his accomplice. After one of the unarmed employees was shot, Clancy, who himself was shot, retreated from the store with the other robber. Clancy was dropped off at the Methodist South emergency room minutes after the attempted robbery and apprehended by the Memphis Police.

Clancy is scheduled to be sentenced on August 22, 2019 before U. S. District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr., where he faces a mandatory minimum consecutive sentence of 10 years and up to life imprisonment for discharging a firearm during a crime of violence.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Violent crimes must be met with significant consequences in order to incapacitate dangerous offenders, deter future violence, achieve justice for victims and the community, and uphold the rule of law. This guilty verdict demonstrates our commitment and resolve to protect the public by making violent offenders pay for their crimes."

This case was investigated by FBI Safe Streets Task Force Agents.

The United States Attorney’s Office, Western District of Tennessee prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

 

Memphis, TN – After a three-day jury trial, a Memphis man was found guilty for obstruction of mail. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the guilty verdict today.

According to information presented in court, in 2015, Braylon Butler, 25, worked at the FedEx Hub as a box sorter. Pursuant to a contractual relationship between FedEx and the United States Postal Service, a large volume of U.S. mail is processed at the FedEx Hub in Memphis. FedEx corporate security viewed Butler on security video footage searching through U.S. mail. In the video, Butler is seen opening shipping containers filled with U.S. mail and searching for brightly colored greeting card envelopes, which may have contained U.S. currency or gift cards. The video also shows Butler appearing to open one such envelope.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "This office takes very seriously our duty to protect the sanctity and security of the United States Postal Service and the U.S. Mail. We work very closely with the United States Postal Inspection Service to defend the nation’s mail system from theft and obstruction to ensure public trust in the mail. This guilty verdict shows our collective commitment to hold accountable any persons who violate that sanctity and victimize innocent citizens for their own selfish gains."

Sentencing is set for August 2, 2019 before United States District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker, where Butler faces up to five years imprisonment.

This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspector.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Annie Christoff and Tony Arvin prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – A former federal employee has been sentenced for theft of public money. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on December 17, 2018, Jacquelyn Denise Young, aka "Jacqueline Harvey," 56, pled guilty to Count 1 of the Indictment. Young formerly worked as the systems administrator for the United States Social Security Administration's Office of Disability Adjudication Review. While working there from approximately 2009 until 2014, she stole $7,224.02 in federal money by misusing government gas cards. The gas cards were provided for Social Security Administration employees to use for official business travel in government-owned vehicles. Ms. Young repeatedly misused the gas cards over a five-year period, to fill up her personal vehicle for non-work-related use.

On April 25, 2019, United States District Court Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Young to time served, followed by two years supervised release. She was sentenced to serve four months of her supervised release on home detention with location monitoring. Young also was ordered to pay restitution to the General Services Administration and forfeiture totaling $7,224.04 and to pay a $500 fine.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "One of the primary functions of this office is to protect the United States Treasury, and the ability of the Social Security Administration to provide efficient public services. Fraudulent schemes and crimes of dishonesty do not pay, and will be exposed."

This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Murre Foster prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

Memphis, TN – A Lauderdale Countyman has been sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for illegally possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, Derriyl DeAndre Maben, 34, was known as the "go to person" for anyone in need of firearms in Ripley, Tennessee.

On July 26, 2017, law enforcement from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Ripley Police Department, Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI), and Tennessee Department of Correction (TDOC) conducted a search of Maben’s residence. Several loaded firearms were seized along with marijuana, methamphetamine (ICE) and drug paraphernalia.

Additionally, on September 30, 2017, evidence proved that Maben discharged a firearm during a physical altercation at the L & M Market on Eastland Street, Ripley, TN.

On July 16, 2018, Maben pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and being a convicted felon in possession of ammunition.

On April 26, 2019, United States District Court Judge Thomas L. Parker sentenced Maben to 100 months in federal prison followed by three years supervised release.

U.S. Attorney D, Michael Dunavant said, "This defendant has a long criminal history of felony and misdemeanor convictions involving violence, drug possession, and property damage, and was on felony probation when he was found in possession of multiple firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. Mr. Maben has devoted his adult life to a career of criminal conduct in Lauderdale County, and that prior history has finally caught up with him. This sentence removing him from the community for more than 8 years will make Lauderdale County and West Tennessee a safer place."

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Ripley Police Department; Tennessee Bureau of Investigation and the Tennessee Department of Correction.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Raney Irwin prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

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Memphis, TN – Decatur Hospital Authority, d/b/a Wise Health System in Decatur, Texas will pay $431,182.96 to the United States to resolve allegations of billing false claims to Medicare for genetic testing panels for surgical patients that were not medically reasonable or necessary.

The allegations were that from 2016 to 2018, Decatur Hospital Authority submitted samples from surgical patients to Tennessee based Total Diagnostic II, LLC labs for genetic testing that were not medically reasonable or necessary. This testing caused claims to be filed with Medicare that were false. Under federal law, Medicare will not pay for services that are not medically reasonable or necessary.

The False Claims Act, 31 U.S.C. §§ 3729-3733, provides the United States with a cause of action against any person or entity that knowingly presents, or causes to be presented, a false or fraudulent claim for payment or approval.

"Protecting the health and safety of Medicare patients is one of our primary concerns. When medical providers break the law by defrauding the government by providing medically unreasonable or unnecessary services we will use our resources to combat this fraud and hold them accountable," said D. Michael Dunavant, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee.

This investigation was conducted by the United States Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee.

Assistant United States Attorneys Stuart J. Canale and Matt Waldrop prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.