Western District of Tennessee

Memphis, TN – After a five-week trial, a federal jury found Larry Bates; his two sons, Chuck and Robert Bates; and Kinsey Bates, the wife of Robert Bates, guilty on all counts set forth in an indictment that charged mail and wire fraud and conspiracy. The charges rose out of the defendants running a decade-long Ponzi scheme in the buying and selling of gold and silver coins. The proof at trial showed that the defendants were able to accomplish the fraud through First American Monetary Consultants, a Colorado corporation, which had offices in Memphis, Tennessee and Boulder, Colorado. More than three hundred and sixty victims lost more than twenty-one million dollars due to the defendants’ illegal scheme, which lasted from as early as 2002 through October of 2013.

"Unfortunately, fraud, corruption and embezzlement can occur everywhere, including in the investment world," said Larry Laurenzi, Acting United States Attorney, who prosecuted the case along with Assistant U.S. Attorney David Pritchard. "People need to be mindful of this terrible fact and work hard to protect themselves and their families from those who prey on others, like the Bates family preyed on so many innocent victims. As this case shows, the United States Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners work diligently to expose people responsible for such fraudulent acts, to vigorously prosecute them, and to bring them to justice."

At trial, the proof showed that the defendants promoted their business through a variety of Christian television and radio programs, including the Jim Baker Show and Jewish Voice. Larry Bates, a self-proclaimed doctor in economics, held conferences across the United States, predicting an economic collapse and emphasizing the need to invest in precious metals. Between 2007 and 2013, customers gave more than eighty-seven million dollars to First American Monetary Consultants for the purpose of buying precious metals. During this same period, the proof showed the defendant diverted customers’ monies that were to be used to purchase precious metals to the defendants own use and

benefit. Testimony at trial showed that by 2009, the company had more than twenty-six million dollars in unfilled customer orders.

The proof showed that the defendants used the customers’ money for a variety of purposes other than purchase of customers’ metals. Larry Bates diverted more than four million dollars to the creation of International Radio Network, a Christian radio network. Other monies were diverted to trading in commodities and the building of a ten-thousand square foot house on three hundred acres in Middleton, Tennessee. Still other customers’ monies were used to fulfill prior orders, which had not been fulfilled.

At trial, the evidence showed that Larry Bates, Chuck and Robert Bates were salespeople in the Memphis office and were responsible for taking in victims’ monies. More than forty-five witnesses testified about losing money to Larry Bates and First American Monetary Consultants. The victims,who lived across the United States, testified that their money was to be used to purchase precious metals that they never received. For example, Judith Ponder, from Kerrville, Texas, testified that she and her mother gave Larry Bates more than $1.8 million dollars to purchase precious metals and received little in return. Similarly, Barbara Santiago, from Washington State, testified that she and her paraplegic son met Larry Bates at one of his conferences in Washington State. Ms. Santiago tested that she later invested more than two hundred and sixty-six thousand dollars from her son’s insurance settlement that was to be used for her son’s care. Ms. Santiago, likewise, received little of what she was promised. And, Charles Grimsley, a pastor for the Veteran’s Administration in Mesa, Colorado, testified that he and his wife gave FAMC more than two hundred thousand dollars of their retirement money and received nothing in return.

The proof showed that many of the victims attempted to take possession of their gold and silver coins, only to be put off by the defendants for a variety of reasons. The excuses for the delays included that the gold and silver coins were scarce, the coins were coming from Europe, and the U.S. mint was shut down. In October 2013, a receiver was appointed to take over the affairs of First American Monetary Consultants. The receiver found that the company had few assets and was unable to compensate the hundreds of victims who had given money to Larry Bates and First American Consultants.

Larry Bates was convicted on all 46 counts in the indictment. Chuck Bates was found guilty of 18 counts of mail and wire fraud and one count of conspiracy. Robert Bates was convicted of five counts of mail fraud, three counts of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy. Kinsey Bates was convicted on one count of conspiracy and two counts of wire fraud.

Each count of conviction carries a potential sentence of 20 years in prison and a potential fine of $250,000. The defendants also face potential forfeiture and restitution penalties. The defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on August 3, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman.

Acting United States Attorney Lawrence J. Laurenzi and Assistant United States Attorney David Pritchard prosecuted the case. The United States Postal Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case.

Memphis, TN – A Memphis real estate investor has pled guilty to a charge of bank fraud. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney, announced the guilty plea today.

In September 2016, Thomas L. Boyd, 44, was indicted by a federal grand jury in connection with a scheme to fraudulently obtain mortgage loans. The indictment alleged that Boyd, the owner of Wonderful Properties, LLC made false statements and presented false documents to Regions Bank, First Tennessee Bank, Bank of America and Oak Tree Funding on behalf of persons who were financing the purchase of properties from Boyd and Wonderful Properties.

According to the indictment, Boyd often made false statements on the loan closing documents by failing to disclose to the lenders on HUD-1 settlement statements that he was kicking back a portion of the loan proceeds to borrowers. Boyd’s scheme caused the lenders to disburse approximately $635,000 in loan proceeds.

At his plea hearing, Boyd admitted making false statements to Regions Bank in connection with a mortgage loan being made to an individual who was financing the purchase of a property from Boyd.

Boyd faces a maximum penalty of 30 years of imprisonment on the bank fraud charge and a fine of up to $1,000,000 and 5 years supervised release and a mandatory special assessment of $100.

The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on August 9, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman.

The case was investigated by the FBI; Federal Housing Finance Agency (FHFA) – OIG; Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD); Postal Inspection Service and IRS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll L. Andre III is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – Jamie Thomas, 29, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on September 10, 2014, Memphis Police Department (MPD) detectives conducted a traffic stop at Nabors Way and Collins Chapel Circle. As officers approached Thomas’ vehicle he placed something in his mouth, locked the doors and rolled up the windows, to a point where only an arm could reach inside. The defendant presented law enforcement with his license but refused to turn off the vehicle.

After disobeying law enforcement’s directives to turn off the engine, the officer reached through the passenger side window, unlocked the door and turned off the vehicle. The defendant restarted the engine and accelerated the vehicle, while he and the detective struggled over control of the vehicle. Described as wearing a pink hat and pink shirt, the defendant jumped from the vehicle and ran. The vehicle was driverless, as the detective was in the passenger seat. The detective jumped from the passenger seat to the driver seat to stop the moving vehicle. While fleeing on foot, the defendant tossed a Smith and Wesson .40 caliber pistol.

During his flight, Thomas unknowingly flagged down an undercover detective who was driving an unmarked vehicle. The defendant agreed to pay the undercover detective $200 to take him out of the area. After driving for a short time, the detective advised the defendant that he was under arrest. He then attempted to handcuff the defendant, but Thomas was able to escape again. The defendant was subsequently arrested a short time later at his residence.

When officers with the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Task Force attempted to arrest the defendant on the federal warrant relating to the September 10, 2014, firearm possession, detectives observed the defendant exit a window and jump into another window of a second floor apartment building while attempting to escape. The defendant was arrested after making it to the ground floor.

The case was investigated by PSN Task Force, which includes the U.S. Attorney’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Memphis Police Department; and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, who have all joined together to address gun-related crimes through aggressive investigation and prosecution. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marques Young and Murre Martindale prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A man charged with fatally shootingMemphis Police Department Officer Sean Bolton has pled guilty to federal charges of armed carjacking and being a convicted felon in possession of ammunition. The defendant, Tremaine Wilbourn, 31, has pending state charges for capital murder. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney announced the guilty plea today.

On August 1, 2015, Wilbourn, was in the passenger seat of a vehicle parked on a street in East Memphis when Officer Bolton approached the vehicle. Officer Bolton attempted to detain Wilbourn before the defendant pulled a 9mm pistol and shot Bolton several times.

Facts from the hearing outline that shortly after the shooting, Wilbourn used a firearm to carjack a man of a 2002 Honda Accord.

Wilbourn faces a mandatory 25-years of imprisonment and a fine of up to $250,000. There is no parole in the federal system. The defendant is scheduled to be sentenced on July 28, 2017, by U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives in conjunction with the Memphis Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Jackson, TN – One member of the violent "Gangster Disciples" street gang was sentenced as a felon in possession of a firearm, while another has been indicted on 4-counts of violent crime in aid of racketeering activity, as well as associated weapons charges. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentencing and indictment today.

Sentencing

According to information presented at sentencing, on July 13, 2015, officers with the Jackson Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance call at 318 West Forest Avenue. After the defendant Brandon Purdy, 27, answered the door, law enforcement saw what was later determined to be a loaded black and silver Smith and Wesson .40 caliber handgun on the kitchen counter within reach of Purdy.

After Purdy was arrested, law enforcement was given consent to search the remainder of the apartment. During the search, a Cobra .380 caliber pistol was found under the couch. Purdy made admissions in a recorded jail call to having knowledge and possession of the two firearms.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ (ATF) laboratory located in Atlanta, Georgia, did NIBIN testing on the weapons found in Brandon Purdy’s possession. NIBIN, or the National Integrated Ballistics Information Network, is an ATF led program that is used to link violent criminals to the violent crimes they commit by using the firearms they possess or use. The NIBIN program allows law enforcement to leverage technology to assist local agencies, such as the Jackson Police Department, to solve violent crimes. NIBIN is not only instrumental in Jackson, TN, but also in other parts of the country where the criminal element uses firearms to commit crimes of violence.

The weapons possessed by Purdy were tested and compared with evidence recovered from past Jackson crime scenes. The .40 caliber Smith and Wesson pistol was determined to have been used in two Gangster Disciples shootings.

Purdy is a documented member of the Gangster Disciples street gang. His brother, Byron Purdy, is recognized as Governor of Tennessee for the gang, making him the highest ranking Gangster Disciple member in the State. Byron Purdy is currently charged in a 16 defendant indictment with racketeering and drug crimes.

On April 12, 2017, Senior District Judge J. Daniel Breen sentenced Brandon Purdy to the maximum penalty within his guideline range of 37 months’ imprisonment.

Second Indictment for Douglas

On April 17, 2017, Dontoreus Douglas, 29, was indicted in the Western District of Tennessee on 4 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.

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.

The case was investigated by the ATF and the Jackson Police Department, Gang Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Boswell is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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

An Arlington, Tennessee man pleaded guilty today to intentionally accessing a competing engineering firm’s computer network without proper authorization in order to obtain proprietary information, announced Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Lawrence J. Laurenzi of the Western District of Tennessee.

Jason Needham, 45, co-owner of HNA Engineering, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. of the Western District of Tennessee.  Sentencing is set for July 14, 2017.

As part of his guilty plea, Needham admitted that, over a nearly two-year period, he repeatedly accessed the servers of Allen & Hoshall, his former employer, to download digitally rendered engineering schematics and more than 100 PDF documents containing project proposals and budgetary documents.  Needham also admitted to accessing, on hundreds of occasions, the email account of a former colleague at Allen & Hoshall, which provided Needham access to the firm’s marketing plans, project proposals, company fee structures and the rotating account credentials for the company’s internal document-sharing system.  According to the plea, Needham used his unauthorized access to view, download and copy proprietary business information worth approximately $425,000.

The FBI investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra L. Ireland of the Western District of Tennessee and Trial Attorney Timothy C. Flowers of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section prosecuted the case.  

Needham Information

Memphis, TN – An Arlington, Tennessee man has pleaded guilty to unauthorized access of his former employer’s network. Acting Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Blanco of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

According to the indictment, Jason Needham, 45, co-owner of HNA Engineering, intentionally accessed the network of a competing engineering firm, Allen & Hoshall, without authorization, and used that access to view, download, and copy proprietary business information worth approximately $425,000.

In connection with his guilty plea, Needham admitted that over a nearly two-year period, he repeatedly accessed the servers of Allen & Hoshall, his former employer, to download digitally rendered engineering schematics and more than 100 PDF documents containing project proposals and budgetary documents. Needham also admitted to accessing, on hundreds of occasions, the email account of a former colleague at Allen & Hoshall, which provided Needham access to Allen & Hoshall’s marketing plans, project proposals, company fee structures, and the rotating account credentials for the company’s internal document-sharing system.

Needham is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes, Jr., on July 14, 2017, at 10:00 a.m.

The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra L. Ireland of the Western District of Tennessee and Trial Attorney Timothy C. Flowers of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section prosecuted the case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A jury has convicted a Memphis man of illegally possessing ammunition while a convicted felon. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the conviction today.

According to information presented at trial, on the evening of February 5, 2016, the Memphis Police Department responded to an aggravated assault call at Riverside Community Center on 1891 Kansas Street. The community center’s recreation leader informed law enforcement that around 6 p.m., he was overseeing a scrimmage basketball game that was set to begin in the gymnasium between boys ranging in ages 6 to 10. Before the game began, Marcus Dotson, 27, and 14-year old nephew, entered the gym in search of a 16-year old victim.

Dotson, a convicted felon at the time of the incident, became embroiled in an argument with patrons on the bleachers, brandished the firearm at the crowd, and fired one shot into the ceiling. Both Dotson and Freeman fled the scene. An arrest warrant was issued for Dotson. He was apprehended two weeks later.

As a result of the Memphis Police Department’s investigation, one Speer .40 caliber shell casing was recovered from the gymnasium. The investigation also yielded surveillance of Dotson and Freeman running from the gymnasium after the shooting, as well as witness identification of the defendant from a photo line-up.

The guilty verdict followed a jury trial before the Honorable Samuel H. Mays, U.S. Senior District Judge. For the one count, the maximum penalty is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for July 14, 2017 at 10 a.m.

The case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen Hartridge and Jerry Kitchen prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A Memphis man has been sentenced to 262 months in federal prison for committing an armed robbery affecting interstate commerce. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentencing today.

According to information presented in court, on the morning of June 13, 2016, Patrick Owens, 48, of Memphis, Tennessee, entered the Bartlett Prescription Shop at 5675 Stage Road, brandishing a firearm. He went behind the pharmacy counter where three employees were working, demanded the employees open the vault containing prescription medication and took several hundred prescription pills of various types. Owens then threatened an employee with the firearm and took her car keys to aid in his escape, forcing the employees into the restroom at the back of the store at gunpoint.

Surveillance video shows Owens entered the employee’s vehicle but did not leave the parking lot. While sitting in the vehicle, a Bartlett Police Officer entered the store. Owens then exited the vehicle and ran into the woods.

Owens was caught near the scene moments later,wearing the same outfit as the individual seen in the surveillance video from the pharmacy. Police also found a bag of pills, an Arminius .38 caliber revolver, a red hat, a surgical mask, and gloves near the scene and near where Owens was found. He was arrested and taken in for questioning. Four days after his arrest, Owens confessed to the robbery of the Bartlett Prescription Shop.

In January 2016, Owens pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes to one count of robbery affecting interstate commerce and one count of use of a firearm during a crime of violence.

On Thursday, April 6, 2017, Judge Fowlkes sentenced Owens to 262 months in federal prison.

The case was investigated by the Bartlett Police Department and by detectives from the Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Rogers prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN –A federal grand jury has indicted a Memphis man for robbing two United States Letter Carriers at gunpoint. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.

According to the federal complaint, on November 21, 2016, at approximately 12:35 p.m., the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) was notified of an armed robbery in the area of 890 Baltic Street. Jamal Cherry, 20, approached U.S. Postal Service Letter Carrier Shalottie Reynolds with a semi-automatic handgun as she placed the mail satchel in her postal truck. Cherry asked the victim for cash or checks from the vehicle, and he then took an unknown number of soft envelope packages.

After canvassing the area, USPIS Inspectors located a nearby home surveillance video camera capturing the defendant fleeing the scene in a blue 2005 Toyota Matrix.

The investigation led law enforcement to Cherry’s residence at 4528 Sugar Creek Road in Memphis where Cherry was located. After Cherry left the residence, he was taken into custody. Law enforcement observed a red Toyota Matrix in the drive-way. Pursuant to a search warrant, law enforcement inspected the car and observed blue paint on the door frame, indicating the car had been repainted.

According to the indictment, the defendant has also been charged with committing another armed robbery of a U.S. Postal Letter Carrier, on December 2, 2016. After waiving his Miranda rights, Cherry admitted to the robbery of the U.S. Postal Letter Carriers on November 21, 2016 and December 2, 2016. He admitted to possessing a handgun during the robberies, taking packages from both robberies and having the Toyota Matrix painted red.

Cherry has been charged in counts one and three of the indictment with robbery of a postal employee. He faces up to 10 years in federal prison, $250,000 fine and three year’s supervised release on each count. For counts two and four of the indictment, the maximum penalty is life imprisonment for use of a firearm during and in relation to the robberies.

The case is being investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marques Young is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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

Memphis, TN – Two Memphis women who used to work for the Tennessee Department of Children’s Services (DCS) have been found guilty and sentenced for unlawfully accessing confidential information on the Department’s computers. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.

According to information presented in court, on May 17, 2016, former DCS employee Rubbie King, 48, of Memphis, contacted a friend who still worked at the agency and caused the friend, Bernice Gunn-Davis, 58, to access the file of a minor child in the Department’s care. King’s daughter was involved with Marcus Ross, who faces charges of rape, aggravated statutory rape, aggravated child abuse, and sex trafficking in connection with the minor whose file was accessed. Neither King nor Gunn-Davis had authority to review the contents of the minor’s file. Ross’ case is pending in Shelby County Criminal Court.

King was convicted of conspiracy to access a protected computer without authorization and obtain information, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371. On March 17, 2017, the Honorable Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced King to serve an eighteen-month term of supervised release, with the first three months on home confinement. This is a felony conviction.

Gunn-Davis was convicted of exceeding authorized access to a protected computer to obtain information, a misdemeanor violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1030 (a) (2) (c). On March 27, 2017, Judge Lipman sentenced Gunn-Davis to one year of probation. Gunn-Davis is no longer associated with DCS.

DCS is the state of Tennessee’s public child welfare agency. It investigates allegations of child abuse and neglect; administers the state’s foster care system; works to establish permanency for children that come into the Department’s care; and serves youth who have been adjudicated delinquent. DCS case files are designated confidential by state law. It is a state crime to disclose confidential information about children or families involved with DCS.

The case was investigated by the FBI cybercrime unit, with the assistance of the Department of Children’s Services.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Ireland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A Memphis man has pleaded guilty to obstructing the Internal Revenue Service ("IRS"). Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

According to the indictment, Cedric Zimbalist Chism was the former owner and operator of a security guard service, Memphis Security of Tennessee, Inc. ("MSOFT").MSOFT had contracts for services with various businesses throughout the Western District of Tennessee in Memphis. Chism attempted to impede and evade payment and reporting of employment taxes to the IRS from 1999 through 2011. Chism, personally and as owner and operator of MSOFT, owed $1,688,473.45 with a tax loss to the IRS of $854,144.39.

This charge carries a penalty of up to 36 months in federal prison and a fine of $5,000.00. The sentencing hearing is set for July 1, 2017.

The case was investigated by the United States Internal Revenue Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Damon Keith Griffin is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A federal grand jury has indicted a Memphis man for committing bank fraud against financial institutions in the Memphis area. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.

According to the indictment, from August 2011 through February 2016, Talmadge Garner and unknown co-conspirators not charged in the indictment participated in a deceptive scheme to defraud Orion Federal Credit Union, SunTrust Bank and Regions Bank ("Banks"). The fraud consisted of opening new accounts and/or using their existing accounts to deposit fraudulent checks. Garner also stole the identities of individuals to pass fraudulent checks to the Banks.

Nearly 200 fraudulent closed account checks totaling $110,831.95 were deposited into accounts at the Banks. Immediately after deposits were made in the Banks, withdrawals were made by Garner and others not named in the indictment. Garner would give co-conspirators some of the proceeds withdrawn from the Banks.

The Indictment records (31) counts of fraudulent transactions involving Garner and unknown co-conspirators during the five-year period. The maximum penalty for bank fraud is (30) years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.

The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Damon Keith Griffin is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A federal grand jury has indicted a Memphis man for illegal reentry into the United States. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.

Official immigration records of Dionico Salazar-Martinez, a/k/a "Dionicio Salazar-Martinez," a/k/a/ "Martinez Salazar," age 53 reflect that he has been found in the United States and returned or removed to Mexico on 15 prior occasions.

According to the indictment, on or about January 25, 2017, the defendant, an alien, was found in Shelby County, Tennessee, after having been denied admission, excluded, deported and removed from the United States and not having obtained the express consent of the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission into the United States, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a) and (b) (1).

Immigration records reflect the following:

• April 23, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Uvalde, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• April 27, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Brackettville, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• May 30, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Brackettville, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• June 26, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Uvalde, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• August 5, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Brackettville, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• August 28, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Uvalde, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• September 1, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Uvalde, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• September 16, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Brackettville, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• October 21, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Uvalde, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• October 24, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Brackettville, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• October 29, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Uvalde, Texas. He was given a Voluntary Return to Mexico.
• December 27, 1998, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Brackettville, Texas. He was placed into removal proceedings and on May 29, 1999, the defendant was removed from the United States to Mexico at El Paso, Texas.
• August 8, 1999, the defendant was arrested by the U.S. Border Patrol near Eagle Pass, Texas. He was placed into removal proceedings and on February 4, 2000, the defendant was removed from the United States to Mexico at Laredo, Texas.
• October 2, 2002, the defendant was arrested by the Immigration and Naturalization Service in Memphis, Tennessee. He was placed into removal proceedings and on October 23, 2002, the defendant was removed from the United States to Mexico at Laredo, Texas.
• August 13, 2003, the defendant was arrested by Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Memphis, Tennessee. He was placed into removal proceedings and on March 2, 2004, the defendant was removed from the United States to Mexico at Hidalgo, Texas.

If convicted, Salazar-Martinez faces a maximum possible sentence of ten (10) years imprisonment, a fine of $250,000, a three-year term of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment.

The case is being investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security – Immigration and Customs Enforcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hall is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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

Memphis, TN – Fourteen defendants of a violent, drug trafficking street gang, along with fifteen individuals not affiliated with "Young Mob" were indicted on federal drug charges. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the charges yesterday.

First indictment

Yesterday, members of the ATF Memphis Field Office, U.S. Marshals Office, Tipton County Sheriff’s Office and Shelby County Sheriff’s Office arrested fourteen defendants named in an indictment as members and associates of the Young Mob gang, an armed drug trafficking organization.

The arrests and indictment are the result of an extensive investigation by federal, state and local law enforcement officials into the Young Mob gang, which began in 2016. During the investigation, officials were able to determine that members and associates of the gang were distributing large quantities of narcotics throughout the Western District of Tennessee.

"As the indictment alleges, members of the "Young Mob" distributed substantial amounts of drugs throughout West Tennessee. In addition, members of the "Young Mob" also brought dangerous weapons into our community," said Acting U.S. Attorney Laurenzi. "We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to eliminate the violence gang members inflict upon our communities and put a stop to their criminal enterprises. In accomplishing these goals, we will exhaust every available resource to bring them to justice. Dismantling violent gangs at the highest levels remains a priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners."

The fourteen defendants arrested are:

• Travlis Banks, a/k/a "Puncho," 37, of Memphis, TN; • Cordarius Frost, a/k/a "Red," a/k/a "Lil Red," 26, of Memphis, TN; • Antwaun Mathews, a/k/a "Twaun," a/k/a "Mobhomie Twaun," 27, of Memphis, TN; • Ronneill Ross, a/k/a "BG,"37, of Memphis, TN; • Cortney Williams, a/k/a "CC," 26, of Memphis, TN; • Darrell Booth, a/k/a "Boo," a/k/a "Pawntell,"37, of Memphis, TN; • Rubin Hampton, 26, of Memphis, TN; • Johnquis Jones, a/k/a "Bug," 24, of Memphis, TN; • Anthony Allen, a/k/a/ "UNC," 50, of Memphis, TN; • Damein Pack, 32, of Memphis, TN; • Carlus Johnson, 34, of Memphis, TN; • Shavita Hampton 25, of Memphis, TN; • Angela Boyd, a/k/a "Auntie," 53, of Memphis, TN; • Tori Dickson, 24, of Memphis, TN.

Steve Gerido, ATF Special Agent in Charge said, "The relentless proactive approach of this investigation by ATF and our partners has severely limited the criminal behavior in the affected Memphis neighborhoods. ATF will remain engaged as we move forward in an effort to protect the public from violent offenders. Support from the public is crucial as the reporting of illegal activity is encouraged through ATF’s report it phone app."

The investigation resulted in the seizure of more than forty firearms, several of which were stolen; 15-20 digital scales, several cellular telephones, hundreds of different caliber rounds of ammunition and several magazines for firearms. Law enforcement also seized $85,661 in cash, which was derived from the sale of narcotics and firearms.

The case was investigated by the ATF Memphis Field Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tipton County Sheriff’s Office, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, the United States Marshals Service, and the Memphis Gang Unit.

Special Assistant United States Attorney Sam Stringfellow is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Second indictment

A second indictment charged fifteen residents of the Memphis area for conspiring to distribute large quantities of drugs throughout West Tennessee. Today nine defendants were taken into custody by federal, state, and local law enforcement officials.

According to the indictment, on or about March 1, 2016, and continuing through the returning of the indictment, the defendants conspired to distribute various controlled substances, including methamphetamine, marijuana, cocaine, oxycodone, hydrocodone, and alprazolam (Xanax). Three defendants have also been indicted for conspiring to commit money laundering.

"As alleged, these defendants worked together to distribute all sorts of illegal drugs throughout the Memphis area, while lining their pockets with the illicit proceeds," said Acting U.S. Attorney Laurenzi. "These charges and arrests show that we will bring to justice those who peddle this poison, particularly to our children and young adults. I thank the FBI, the Multi-Agency Gang Unit, and all our partners for their diligent efforts on this case, and I’d like to express particular gratitude to the federal, state and local law enforcement officials who took part in today’s takedown."

The nine defendants who have been arrested are:

• Rodriccos Broadnax, a/k/a "Rico," 22, of Memphis, TN; • Jerome Taylor, a/k/a/ "Rome," a/k/a "Three Pop," 56, of Memphis, TN; • Teeka Shannon, 34, of Memphis, TN; • Angela Weaver, 41, of Memphis, TN; • Richard Cobb, 48, of Bartlett, TN; • Paul Williams, 33, of Lakeland, TN; • Arteleious Ingram, a/k/a "Block," 29, of Memphis, TN; • Brandon Davison, a/k/a/ "Millwood," a/k/a/ "Lil B," 29, of Memphis, TN; • Shalandria Jackson, a/k/a "Pumpkin," 24, of Memphis, TN.

"Gang-related drug trafficking continued to plague our communities. These arrests will help return the affected neighborhoods to places where residents can live and work, and enjoy their communities free from the distraction of gangs, guns, drugs and violence," said Matthew W. Espenshade, Acting Special Agent in Charge of theMemphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. "It is the continued commitment of the FBI and our partners to disrupt and dismantle gang activity to ensure a safer community."

Count 1 charges Jerome Taylor, Larry Broadnax, Rodriccos Broadnax, Teeka Shannon, Jason Washington, Angela Weaver, Richard Cobb and Paul Williams with conspiracy to distribute Methamphetamine. Taylor, Larry Broadnax, Rodriccos Broadnax, Rodney Broadnax and Shannon are alleged to have distributed 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine. Washington,

Weaver, Cobb and Williams are alleged to have distributed 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of Methamphetamine.

Count 2 charges Larry Broadnax, Artelious Ingram, Rodriccos Broadnax, Rodney Broadnax, Jerome Taylor, Brandon Davison, Shalandria Jackson and two others with conspiracy to distribute Marijuana. The indictment states that Larry Broadnax was responsible for distributing more than 1,000 kilograms of Marijuana.

Count 3 charges Larry Broadnax and another individual with conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of Cocaine.

Count 4 charges Larry Broadnax, Rodriccos Broadnax, Brandon Davison, Robert Cobb and another individual with conspiracy to distribute Oxycodone.

Count 5 charges Larry Broadnax, Rodney Broadnax and Jerome Taylor with conspiracy to distribute Hydrocodone.

Count 6 charges Larry Broadnax, Jerome Taylor, Rodriccos Broadnax, Angela Weaver and Brandon Davison with conspiracy to distribute Alprazolam (Xanax).

Count 7 charges Larry Broadnax, Arteleious Ingram and another individual with conspiracy to commit money laundering.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force and the Multi-Agency Gang Unit. The Safe Streets Task Force is comprised of agents and officers from the FBI’s Memphis Division, the Memphis Police Department, the Shelby County Sheriff’s Department, the Bartlett Police Department, the Germantown Police Department and the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department. During the investigation, members of the Task Force also worked closely with the Memphis Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

Assistant United States Attorney Mark Erskine is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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

WHAT: Acting United States Attorney Lawrence J. Laurenzi; and Steve Gerido, ATF Special Agent in Charge will make an announcement regarding the Department of Justice’s investigation into an armed drug trafficking organization. DATE: Tuesday, March 21, 2017 TIME: 1:45 p.m. WHERE:

United States Attorney’s Office – Main Conference Room
Clifford Davis Odell Horton Federal Building
167 North Main Street, Suite 800
Memphis, TN 38103

NOTE:

All media members must present government-issued photo I.D.
(such as driver’s license), as well as valid media credentials.

Media are requested to RSVP to Cherri.Green@usdoj.gov. The conference room will be available for media to set up at 1:15 p.m. everything must be pre-set by 1:30 p.m. Press inquiries regarding logistics should be directed to Cherri Green at 901-969-2948.

 

Memphis, TN – Seven members of the Gangster Disciples have pleaded guilty to committing violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty pleas today.

According to information presented in court, the Gangster Disciples are a violent criminal gang which began in the Chicago, Illinois area. In the 1970’s, the leaders of two different Chicago-based gangs, the Black Disciples and the Supreme Gangsters, aligned their respective groups and created the Gangster Disciples.

Once united, the Gangster Disciples began recruiting heavily in Chicago, within Illinois jails and prisons, and throughout the United States. By the mid-1980’s, the group had spread throughout the Midwestern and Eastern United States. The Gangster Disciples are active in approximately 35 states including Tennessee.

The purpose of the enterprise includes preserving and protecting the power of the enterprise through the use of threats, intimidation, and acts of violence including murder.

On June 21, 2014, Florence Anthony ("Anthony"), a member of the Gangster Disciples, got into an altercation with a group of individuals at the Hillview Apartments located in Memphis, Tennessee. Anthony reported the confrontation to her Gangster Disciples chain-of-command. As a result, Anthony, along with fellow gang member Brandon Milton ("Milton"), returned to the Hillview Apartments to retaliate. Milton fired at least three shots at a group of individuals standing outside the apartments. Because no one was struck, the security team for the Gangster Disciples were called in to discuss further retaliation.

At approximately 10:30 p.m. on that same day, Edwin Carvin ("Carvin"), Robert Mallory ("Mallory"), Tony Coburn ("Coburn"), Erik Reese ("Reese"), and Ranito Allen ("Allen"), all members of the Gangster Disciples, went back to the Hillview Apartments to retaliate against what were identified as rival gang members. Carvin, Mallory, Coburn, Reese and Allen were each armed with firearms and proceeded on foot through the apartments shooting four juveniles and one adult male. All five victims survived, but some sustained serious bodily injuries.

All seven members of the Ganger Disciples were indicted by a federal grand jury on a number of charges including violent crimes in aid of racketeering activity in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1959 and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence in violation of 18 U.S.C. §924 (c). Today, the final defendant (Reese) pleaded guilty. Coburn is scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, March 23, 2017 at 3:30 p.m.; Mallory is set for sentencing on Friday, March 24, 2017 at 10:00 a.m.; Carvin is set for sentencing on Friday, March 24, 2017 at 1:30 p.m.; Anthony is scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, June 1, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.; Milton is scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, June 1, 2017 at 1:30 p.m.; Allen is scheduled for sentencing on Friday, June 2, 2017 at 9:00 a.m.; and Reese is scheduled for sentencing on Thursday, June 22, 2017 at 1:30 p.m. before United States District Court Judge Samuel H. Mays.

Each faces up to life in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Multi-Agency Gang Unit, Police Departments for Memphis, Bartlett and Germantown; Sheriff’s Offices for Tipton, Desoto and Shelby; and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation Crime Lab.

Assistant United States Attorney Jerry Kitchen, Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Kimbril-Parks, and Special Assistant United States Attorney Sam Stringfellow are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A jury has convicted a Memphis man of illegally possessing a firearm. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the conviction today.

According to information presented at trial, on December 25, 2015, officers with the Memphis Police Department responded to a domestic disturbance call at 779 Laurel. The defendant Jeremy Brown fired four rounds into the home with a stolen SCCY 9mm pistol, barely missing his girlfriend and her great-aunt, who were both inside. In an attempt to break into the home, Brown used the firearm to break the glass to the side door. This activated the home’s security system, alarming the defendant and causing him to drop the gun between the locked storm and wooden doors and flee the scene.

The defendant’s girlfriend reported the SCCY 9mm pistol stolen in 2014 by Brown. The loaded firearm was later recovered on the property by law enforcement.

According to the affidavit of complaint, Jeremy Brown was not on the scene when officers responded. However, he sent a text message to the victim once the police left the scene, which prompted her to call 911 and ask that law enforcement return. Three days later, on December 28, 2015, Brown turned himself in on the arrest warrant.

For the one count, the maximum penalty is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for June 22, 2017, before the Honorable U.S. Senior District Judge Samuel H. Mays, Jr.

The case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen Hartridge and Marques Young prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A jury has convicted a Memphis man of possessing a firearm while a convicted felon and possessing a firearm while on school property. Lawrence J. Laurenzi, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the conviction today.

According to information presented at trial, on October 3o, 2014, officers with the Memphis Police Department responded to a report of an armed suspect at Ross Elementary School, 4890 Ross Road. Upon arrival, officers saw Charles Tigner of Memphis, Tennessee, who was combative and engaged officers in a fight resulting in the deployment of a chemical agent.

Officers pursued Tigner from the halls of Ross Elementary School to 6946 Boothbay, where he was apprehended. A Ruger 9 mm was recovered on school property near the area of the original struggle.

According to the affidavit of complaint, the suspect had an outstanding warrant for domestic violence charges.

For the two counts, the maximum penalty is 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is set for May 4, 2017, before the Honorable U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr.

The case was investigated by the Memphis Police Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Dean DeCandia and Bayonle Osundare prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Jackson, TN – A former Crockett County Sheriff’s Deputy has been indicted on federal drug and gun charges. Edward L. Stanton III, United States Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, and Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Division of the FBI, announced today the unsealing of an indictment charging Calvin Fields with federal drug trafficking and gun violations.

"Individuals who engage in criminal conduct and violate the public’s trust, including those who take an oath to protect and serve our community, will be held accountable for their actions," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "No one is above the law."

According to the indictment, on February 13, 2017, Calvin Fields aided and abetted others in the distribution of a mixture of substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. Mr. Fields was in possession of a Glock .40 caliber pistol in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime.

Federal agents arranged surveillance and saw Calvin Fields stationed in his patrol vehicle while on duty, providing security while cocaine was being delivered by an undercover cooperating source.

The suspect was arrested last Friday, February 17, 2017, on a federal complaint. The federal grand jury in Jackson returned the indictment on February 21, 2017.

"No one is above the law, especially those who have sworn an oath to uphold the law," said Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. "Public corruption is the number one criminal priority of the FBI and we will continue to work with our partners to bring to justice those who would seek to line their own pockets and in doing so jeopardize the safety of the public."

Charges in the indictment stem from the illegal activity of distributing powder cocaine and possession of a firearm during the commission of a drug-trafficking crime.

For the two counts, the penalty is not less than five years in prison and up to life imprisonment, a $1,250,000 fine, or both.

The case was investigated by members of the FBI Memphis Division’s Jackson Resident Agency, the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office and the 28th Judicial District Violent Crime and Drug Task Force. This investigation is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matt Wilson on the government’s behalf.

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

Memphis, TN – A Memphis man has been convicted on seven counts of armed robbery affecting interstate commerce. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the verdict today.

According to information presented in court, during the month of January 2016, Eugene Cox, 23, and Squantivia S. Patterson, 23, both of Memphis; and Terry Farris, 38, of Millington, participated in multiple armed robberies of seven Memphis businesses: Shoney’s, Family Dollar, Krystal’s, Circle K, Church’s, Subway and Beauty and Beyond.

The guilty verdict followed a jury trial before the Honorable Sheryl Lipman, U.S. District Judge. Evidence at trial showed Terry Farris, along with Eugene Cox and Squantivia Patterson committed two robberies together.

On January 13, 2016, the trio robbed the Shoney’s at 308 Covington Pike. Later that evening, the men robbed Circle K at 6133 Macon. Cox and Patterson were captured on surveillance video inside the Circle K, while Farris remained outside of the business and served as the lookout. After the robbery of Circle K, the men parted ways.

On January 14, 2016, Farris robbed Family Dollar at 2711 Getwell and Krystal’s at 3675 Lamar. On January 16, 2016, he robbed Church’s at 925 Poplar. That same day, Cox and Patterson robbed Subway at 2938 Covington Pike. While committed on the same day, the robberies were unrelated. Cox and Patterson committed their last robbery on January 23, 2016, at the Beauty and Beyond beauty supply, 9024 Covington Pike.

As a result of the Memphis Police Department’s investigation, latent prints lifted from the crime scene at Family Dollar were determined to be the same inked impressions belonging to Farris. The investigation also yielded surveillance video from Family Dollar, Krystal’s and Church’s along with victims’ identification of Farris from photo line-ups.

For the seven counts, the penalty is a mandatory minimum of 35 years and up to life in prison. Sentencing is set for May 26, 2017, at 9:00 a.m.

The case was investigated by detectives from the Memphis Police Department’s Safe Streets Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen Hartridge and Kevin Whitmore prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A Memphis man has pleaded guilty to armed robbery. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

According to information presented in court, on August 18, 2016, officers with the Memphis Police Department, responded to a robbery of a Dunbar Armored courier at 2424 Summer Avenue. James Edward Lacey, Jr. pepper-sprayed and robbed the Dunbar Armored courier, taking $118,942. The courier was in the process of placing the United States currency into the truck, when Lacey approached and pepper-sprayed him.

The driver of the Dunbar Armored truck, saw the unknown subject taking the currency and fired one shot, hitting the subject on the right side of his body. After being shot, Lacey fled on foot with the Dunbar courier bag containing the money, and got into the passenger side of a black Jeep Liberty, and fled the area. Blood found at the scene and a DNA analysis by the Tennessee Bureau of Investigations (TBI) revealed Lacey’s blood.

On August 24, 2016, a Memphis Crime Stoppers tip, was received with specific information and details alleging the crime was committed by Lacey

Prior to the robbery, on August 13, 2016, Lacey was arrested for being a felon in possession of a Kel-Tec 9mm pistol. His criminal history dates back to 2008.

For the two counts, Lacey faces up to 30 year’s in prison and a $500,000 fine. Sentencing is set for May 12, 2017, before the Honorable U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman.

The case was investigated by the FBI’s Safe Street Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Whitmore is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, has announced his resignation, effective February 28, 2017. U.S. Attorney Stanton has served in office since August 2010.

"Nearly six and a half years ago I was provided the professional honor of a lifetime," U.S. Attorney Stanton said. "To be able to serve the district where I was born, raised and educated, and for which I have tremendous love and respect, was a remarkable experience. I am tremendously grateful to President Obama, Senators Lamar Alexander and Bob Corker and Congressman Steve Cohen for placing their trust in me. I am confident the extraordinary professionals of the U.S. Attorney’s Office will remain tirelessly devoted to the unwavering cause of justice on behalf of the citizens of West Tennessee and our great nation. I am proud of the work we have accomplished in and out of the courtroom, including building meaningful bonds of trust with the community we serve. As I step away from this esteemed post, I remain committed to being actively engaged in serving our great community."

When he assumed the role as U.S. Attorney in 2010, Mr. Stanton committed himself to protecting the nearly 1.5 million citizens that comprise West Tennessee through the vigorous enforcement of federal laws.

One of Mr. Stanton’s highlights during his tenure as U.S. Attorney was the creation of a dedicated Civil Rights Unit in 2011. The Unit, which has earned national acclaim, is responsible for prosecuting individuals who commit federal civil rights crimes, such as human trafficking, law enforcement corruption, excessive force, official misconduct, hate crimes, predatory lending, unfair housing, and Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) violations.

Mr. Stanton has served on the Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Board. The program was recently awarded the U.S. Attorney’s Office funding to implement a federal initiative that exclusively targets crimes involving heroin and prescription opioids. He is also a founding member of the Multi-Agency Gang Unit, which is comprised of federal, state and local law enforcement officials, with a common goal of combating criminal gang activity.

With a focus on prosecuting cases involving violent crime, human trafficking, child exploitation, hate crimes, health care fraud, identity theft, racketeering, drug trafficking, and unlawful firearm possession, prosecutorial highlights during Mr. Stanton’s tenure include:

• Chastain Montgomery, Sr., was sentenced to consecutive life sentences in federal prison for the murders of United States Postal Service employees Paula Robinson and Judy Spray during a robbery of the establishment. Mr. Stanton served as co-counsel on the trial team.

• Ricky Lee Stewart, III was sentenced to life in federal prison for fatally shooting Henderson Police Department Captain Dennis Cagle during an attempted robbery of a Henderson, Tennessee Save-A-Lot. Stewart’s wife, Cheryl Freeman Stewart, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for her role in the attempted robbery.

• Orlando Garcia was sentenced to life in federal prison for his role in the murder of Tennessee State Trooper Calvin Wayne Jenks, who was fatally shot while conducting a traffic stop in Tipton County.

• Dale Mardis was sentenced to life in federal prison for the racially-motivated killing of a Shelby County Code Enforcement Officer. Mr. Stanton served as co-counsel on the trial team.

• Craig Petties, a leader of one of the largest drug trafficking organizations in the Mid-South, was sentenced to nine life sentences in federal prison. More than 40 additional people were also prosecuted for their roles within this violent and lucrative criminal enterprise.

• Clarence Mumford, Sr., the ringleader of a two-decade-long teacher certification testing scam, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison. Thirteen other participants in the scheme were also prosecuted, and an additional 40 reached diversion agreements that resulted in the loss of their teaching licenses.

• Justin Shawn Baker was sentenced to federal prison for violating the civil rights of students and faculty of the Margolin Hebrew Academy. Baker defaced a Torah and religious prayer books, which the students and faculty used for a worship service conducted at the Doubletree Hotel in Jackson.

• Terrence Yarbrough, aka "T-Rex," was sentenced to more than 40 years in federal prison for sex trafficking at least 10 female victims, some underage teens. To coerce the victims into prostituting for him, he beat them with belts, wooden coat hangers, crowbars, padlocks attached to belts, and dog chains.

• Amos Patton, a former soldier, was sentenced to 50 years in federal prison for assault with intent to murder four soldiers at the Millington Army National Guard Recruiting Center.

• Terrence Milam was sentenced to 170 years in federal prison for producing child pornography and engaging in sexually explicit conduct with two prepubescent female minors between October 2013 and late January 2015.

• Christopher T. Crawford and Jordan West were sentenced to federal imprisonment for their roles in a lucrative shipping theft scheme that defrauded FedEx and wireless carriers of more than $1.8 million.

• Remark Chism was sentenced to federal prison for masterminding a federal benefit fraud scheme that cost the government approximately $2.8 million. His brother, Ray Chism III, was sentenced in a separate case for executing a federal benefit fraud scheme that defrauded the government of $400,000.

Between 2010 and 2016, the U.S. Attorney’s Office collected more than $50 million in civil and criminal actions.

During his tenure, Mr. Stanton also made it a priority to conduct outreach and strengthen relationships between law enforcement partners, citizens, and community groups.

For example, Mr. Stanton engaged the district’s clergy, civic, nonprofit and business communities through community forums, roundtable discussions and a myriad of speaking engagements; encouraged and equipped the district’s youth by visiting schools, community centers, and nonprofit organizations that cater to youth; and implemented programs that provide employment opportunities to non-violent ex-offenders determined to become productive members of society.

Mr. Stanton spearheaded the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s involvement in the U.S. District Court’s reentry and drug court program; appointed a Reentry and Prevention Coordinator; established an Employer Recruitment Program to help increase the number of companies who hire non-violent ex-offenders; and conducted quarterly visits to both the Federal Correctional Institution (FCI) in Memphis and Satellite Prison Camp (SPC) in Millington to talk with inmates about transitional resources, supervised release, and the necessity to watch the company they keep.

In addition, Mr. Stanton chaired the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee’s Racial Disparities Working Group. Under his leadership, this group of U.S. Attorneys from across the country addressed implicit and unconscious bias, potential sentencing disparities, and requested enhanced training programs for law enforcement officials.

Mr. Stanton is responsible for fully staffing both the Memphis and Jackson divisions of the U.S. Attorney’s Office by hiring two-thirds of the Office’s current Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs), along with nearly half of the Office’s support staff. He also appointed the district’s first-ever Appellate Chiefs and created a dedicated Appellate Unit to promote and defend the government’s interests in the Courts of Appeals. He was able to accomplish these milestones while navigating his staff through several financial challenges, including a hiring freeze, government shutdown and budget sequestration.

Mr. Stanton, a native Memphian, is a graduate of Central High School, the University of Memphis and the University of Memphis Law School. Prior to serving as U.S. Attorney, Mr. Stanton served as Senior Counsel with Federal Express Corporation. He also served as an Assistant City Attorney for the City of Memphis and in private practice with two Memphis law firms.

Jackson, TN – Fifteen alleged members of a drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing cocaine and marijuana throughout West Tennessee have been indicted on federal charges. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee; Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Memphis Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Steve Isbell, Chief of Police for the Dyersburg Police Department; and Christopher Wiser, Chief of Police for the Jackson Police Department, announced the indictment today.

"As the indictment alleges, these 15 individuals decided to traffic illicit narcotics throughout our district as a means to fatten their pockets," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "Law enforcement has no tolerance for the distribution of illegal drugs, and this indictment serves as a reminder that we will keep pursuing those suspected of poisoning our community."

On Tuesday, January 31st, 12 of the defendants were taken into custody by federal, state and local law enforcement officials. Three of the defendants were already incarcerated on unrelated charges.

The following defendants have been indicted for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine base and marijuana:

• Anthony Lamont Adams, 41, of Obion County
• James Williams Ayers, 51, of Shelby County (Already in Federal Custody)
• Joaquian Jonulle Bowen, 30, of Dyer County
• Edrik Deon Fason, 34, of Madison County (Already in Federal Custody)
• Derrick Shawen Fields, 36, of Dyer County
• L.C. Gills Jr., 48, of Dyer County
• Monteith Alvarez Haley, 37, of Dyer County
• Charlie Dwayan Hartshaw, 35, of Madison County
• Demonta Darnell Henning, 25, of Dyer County
• Paul Montrale Isom, 30, of Dyer County
• Joseph Deangelo Lee, 44, of Dyer County
• Billy Joe Liggon Jr., 40, of Madison County (Already in Federal Custody)
• Bobby Charles McElrath, 54, of Dyer County
• Kenneth Wayne Patrick, 38, of Dyer County
• Jermaine B. Temple, 38, of Madison County

According to the indictment, between June and December 2016, the defendants conspired with each other to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute powder cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana. The defendants allegedly aided and abetted each other during the commission of the aforementioned crime.

During the course of its investigation, law enforcement officials seized illicit narcotics, drug paraphernalia, firearms, and drug proceeds. Additional firearms were recovered during Tuesday’s round-up.

"Gang-related drug activity tears at the fabric of our communities, as gang members peddle poison and innocent people are caught in the violence and related crimes that accompany the drug trade," said Gavin, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI’s Memphis Field Office. "Today's arrests demonstrate the commitment of the FBI and our law enforcement partners to root out those who seek to prey on the public, and to stamp out the organizations that ruin so many lives."

"I am very proud of the Street Crimes Unit, and appreciate their dedication and hard work removing dangerous individuals from our community," said Dyersburg Police Chief Isbell. "They worked many long hours and were aided by other members of the police department’s patrol and criminal investigation division. Officers on the Street Crimes Unit are also members of the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Force. This partnership allows us to combine resources to make all of West Tennessee a safer place."

"We want the citizens of Jackson and West Tennessee to be confident in our departments’ commitment to relentlessly and aggressively pursuing criminals who engage in poisoning our community by pushing and selling drugs in West Tennessee," stated Jackson Police Chief Wiser. "Criminals do not stop at city limit signs and neither do we. The Jackson Police Department values our working relationship with our federal law enforcement partners which often bridge the gap between local jurisdictions. Because drugs are the root cause of so many of the crimes committed in our area, we are determined to focus our attention and resources on those with criminal intent to destroy our community. We appreciate the likeminded efforts of the FBI and the Dyersburg Police Department in this case and you can be assured that these types of enforcement actions will continue as long as needed to combat the drug problems in our streets."

All 15 defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison and fines of up to $1 million for both the conspiracy and aiding and abetting charges.

Isom is charged with an additional count of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute marijuana. He faces up to five years and a fine of up to $250,000 for the charge.

Haley is charged with three additional counts of distribution and possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. He faces up to 20 years and a fine of up to $1 million for each charge.

Fason is charged with an additional count of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and a fine of up to $5 million.

Ayers is charged with felony possession of multiple firearms and ammunition. He faces up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000 for the charge.

The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Memphis Safe Streets Task Force. The Task Force is comprised of agents from the FBI Memphis Division’s Jackson Resident Agency, the Dyersburg Police Department, the Jackson Police Department, the Lexington Police Department, and the 24th Judicial District Drug Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Wilson is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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

Memphis, TN – A Memphis area man has pleaded to using the internet to coerce an underage teen into engaging in sexual intercourse. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

According to information presented in court, Matthew Marr, 23, used messaging apps to communicate with a 14-year-old female minor in July and August of 2016. The minor revealed that she was underage during one of their initial conversations. However, Marr assured the minor that her age was not an issue.Marr eventually met the minor in person to have sexual intercourse and, on at least one occasion, was armed with a knife. Additionally, Marr sent sexually explicit images to the minor. He also told the victim she had to send him sexually explicit videos and images of herself if she wanted to be in a relationship with him, and pressured her to introduce him to even younger girls.

On Thursday, January 26, 2017, Marr pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of coercing and enticing a female minor to engage in sexual activity.

Marr is scheduled to be sentenced on April 27, 2017.

He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

This case is being investigated by the FBI's Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force and the BPD.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Deb Ireland is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Anyone who believes they may have information about related activities is asked to contact the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force at 901.747.4300.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources."

Jackson, TN – A California man who shot a woman twice during an attempted bank robbery has been sentenced to more than three decades in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

"Dominic Williams’ greed and reckless disregard for human life led him to shoot a law-abiding citizen and attempt to rob a federal bank," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "This stern sentence is a clear reminder that individuals who decide to commit violent acts in our community will face severe consequences."

According to information presented in court, Dominic Williams, 37, of Los Angeles, California, snuck into the carport of Pamela Janeice Frisbee on the morning of March 18, 2015. Frisbee, a manager of a BancorpSouth bank, was at her home in Humboldt, Tennessee, preparing to leave for her job. When she exited her house and walked to the carport to get into her car, Williams was hiding in front of the vehicle with a Glock .40 caliber pistol. He stood up and pointed the gun at Frisbee before asking her if "she wanted to die today?"

Williams forced Frisbee into the driver’s seat of her vehicle at gunpoint and demanded that she drive to BancorpSouth. Once at the bank, Williams forced her to open the doors — the establishment had not yet opened — and the two went inside. He had her disable an alarm, and demanded she obtain money from the tellers’ drawers. The victim responded there was no money in the drawers. Williams then demanded that she open vaults in the bank to obtain money. When the victim told him that she was unable to open the vaults, he fired multiple shots at her, striking her in the chest and arm. Frisbee subsequently fell to the ground and played dead. Williams then shot and kicked out the back windows of the bank and fled.

Independent witnesses and bank employees notified the Humboldt Police Department (HPD) of the incident. After arriving on the scene, HPD’s chief of police observed Williams stripping clothing off into a dumpster a block from the bank. The police chief was able to arrest him, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) was notified.

After Frisbee was airlifted to a Memphis hospital, FBI investigators responded. Williams was advised of his Miranda rights which he agreed to waive. He provided a recorded statement, informing FBI agents of where he hid his firearm and admitted that he attempted to rob the BancorpSouth bank. FBI agents subsequently recovered the .40 caliber pistol used in the crime. And clothing consistent with witness descriptions of the robber was recovered, as well as a mask and a roll of duct tape.

Frisbee was able to testify in federal court that she was kidnapped, forced against her will, assaulted, and that a firearm was discharged inside the bank.

"This sentence should send a resounding message that violent crimes will not be tolerated, and that law enforcement will not rest until the offenders are caught, prosecuted and held accountable for their actions," said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Baker of the Memphis Field Office of the FBI. "I commend the Humboldt Police Department for their immediate response to identify and arrest this bank robber, and the professionalism and partnership of all involved throughout the investigation to bring him to justice."

Humboldt Police Chief Rob Ellis said: "I am grateful that our victim is doing well after such a horrendous act committed against her. I pray this gives her some closure and wish her all the best after what she has overcome. I also appreciate the help from the FBI, Gibson County Sheriff's Department, 28th Judicial Drug Task Force, Humboldt Fire Department, Gibson County EmergencyMedical Services, Humboldt Area Rescue Squad, and all others that assisted during the incident."

In August 2016, Williams pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge J. Daniel Breen to single counts of attempted bank robbery, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, and felony possession of a firearm.

On Wednesday, January 25, 2017, Judge Breen sentenced Williams to 444 months in federal prison. He will also be required to pay $66,719 in restitution.

This case was investigated by the FBI; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and the HPD.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Wilson prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Jackson, TN – Seven alleged members of a drug trafficking organization responsible for shipping large quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin and Xanax across West Tennessee have been charged in a 16-count indictment. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.

On Thursday, January 19th, and Friday, January 20th, four of the defendants were taken into custody by federal, state and local law enforcement officials. Two of the defendants were already incarcerated on unrelated charges. One remains a fugitive.

The following defendants have been indicted for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of ice, among other charges:

• Bernard Cooper, 31, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Courtney Cooper, 37, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Robert Newsom, 34, of Jackson, Tennessee (fugitive)
• Brandon Weddle, 27, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Ronricus Chapman, 30, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Morgan Bond, 29, of Jackson, Tennessee
• Stephen Williams, 29, of Jackson, Tennessee

According to the indictment, between August 2015 and May 2016, the defendants intentionally conspired with each other to unlawfully distribute and possess with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of ice — meth with a purity level greater than 80 percent. The defendants allegedly aided and abetted each other during the commission of the aforementioned crime.

During the course of a nearly two-year investigation of the criminal organization, law enforcement officers seized more than 550 kilograms of marijuana, 240 grams of ice, 220 grams of cocaine, 20 grams of heroin, and 1,000 Xanax pills.

During its round-up of the defendants, law enforcement seized an additional eight pounds of marijuana, as well as small amounts of heroin, cocaine and Xanax. Two loaded pistols and five vehicles were also seized.

Additional charges listed in the indictment:

• Bernard Cooper, Newsome, Weddle, Chapman and Bond are also charged with additional counts of conspiring with each other to unlawfully distribute and possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, more than 100 kilograms of marijuana, and more than 50 grams of ice. They also aided and abetted each other to distribute, attempt to distribute, possess with the intent to distribute and attempt to possess with the intent to distribute the aforementioned substances.

• Bernard Cooper and Newsome are charged with an additional count of intentionally distributing, attempting to distribute, possessing with the intent to distribute and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute more than five grams of ice.

• Bernard Cooper and Courtney Cooper are charged with an additional count of intentionally distributing, attempting to distribute, possessing with the intent to distribute and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute meth.

• Bernard Cooper is also charged with unlawfully possessing a .223 caliber rifle; and intentionally distributing, attempting to distribute, possessing with the intent to distribute and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute heroin.

• Williams is also charged with unlawfully possessing a 12-gauge shotgun, which had been previously shipped and transported in interstate commerce.

• Courtney Cooper has also been charged with intentionally distributing, attempting to distribute, possessing with the intent to distribute and attempting to possess with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of ice.

All seven defendants face mandatory minimum sentences of 10 years in federal prison and fines of up to $10 million for both the conspiracy and aiding and abetting charges.

Penalties for the additional charges listed in the indictment range from five to 20 years in federal prison and carry fines of up to $10 million.

This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and the Jackson-Madison County Metro Narcotics Unit.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Boswell is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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

Jackson, TN – A former Selmer Police Department lieutenant has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for accessing child pornography on a hidden website. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, Tony O. Miller, 36, of Finger, Tennessee, was a member of a website dedicated to sharing child pornography. Miller used special technology to access it regularly between early January and March 2015. The website could not be found using traditional search engines, like Google or Bing; members had to use special technology designed to conceal their identity in order to access it. Images of minor children engaging in sexual activity with adults were featured on the website. Some of the minors were under 12 years of age.

An undercover investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified users of a website set up for the purposes of sharing child pornography. Visitors to the website could view, download, and comment on other users' material, as well as upload their own. Miller was identified as one of the website’s users.

At the time of the aforementioned conduct, Miller was a lieutenant with the Selmer Police Department and studying to become a lawyer.

Miller admitted that he used the Internet and work-issued digital devices to access the website and view child pornography. He also admitted to using technology to try to hide his criminal activity.

In September 2016, Miller pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge J. Daniel Breen to one count of accessing with intent to view child pornography.

On Thursday, January 05, 2017, the Court heard testimony that Miller destroyed evidence during law enforcement’s investigation into the case. Judge Breen subsequently sentenced Miller to 30 months in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the FBI, with assistance from the FBI Major Case Coordination Unit in Linthicum, Maryland, and the Selmer Police Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Debra Ireland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Anyone who believes they may have information about related activities is asked to contact the Memphis Child Exploitation Task Force at 901.747.4300.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, PSC marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about PSC, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/. For more information about internet safety education, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/resources.html and click on the tab "resources."

Memphis, TN – A man who trafficked a female minor for sex has been sentenced to 151 months in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, Harold Davis, 28, of Memphis, Tennessee, trafficked a female minor runaway between May and June 2014. Davis met the minor on the street and took her to his house. After purchasing a cellphone and wig for the teen, Davis posted an image of her on Backpage.com to advertise her for commercial sexual encounters.

The defendant’s criminal activity was discovered when a Shelby County Sheriff’s Deputy stopped Davis’ vehicle for a traffic violation. Upon approaching the vehicle, the deputy noticed a female minor in Davis’ backseat. The deputy also observed an unusually large amount of condoms and female hygiene products. The minor was identified and placed into foster care. However, within days, Davis communicated with the minor via Facebook, provided her with his contact information and helped her run away from her foster home.

During an investigation into the matter, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) Human Trafficking Task Force was able to link the Backpage.com ads to Davis through his phone number and email accounts.

In April 2016, a federal jury convicted Davis on one count of sex trafficking a minor and one count of using the internet to conduct an unlawful activity.

On Thursday, December 29, 2016, U.S. District Judge Samuel H. Mays Jr. sentenced Davis to 151 months in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the FBI and Shelby County Sheriff’s Department.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Debra Ireland and Kasey Weiland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Jackson, TN – The first of 16 alleged Gangster Disciples indicted on racketeering charges in May 2016 has pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

According to information presented in court, Daniel Lee Cole aka "D-Money," 37, of Jackson, Tennessee, reportedly ordered acts of violence against subordinate gang members and rival gang members; issued operational directives and organizational decisions; and engaged in narcotics trafficking in furtherance of the Gangster Disciples enterprise.

The Gangster Disciples are a highly-organized street gang that operates in more than 35 states and is responsible for violent acts and large-scale drug and firearm distribution.

The Gangster Disciples are organized into different positions, including board members, and governor-of-governors who each control geographic regions; governors, assistant governors, chief enforcers and chief of security for each state or regions within the state where the Gangster Disciples are active; and coordinators and leaders within each local group.

During his plea agreement, Cole admitted that he was a past governor of the 731 region (Jackson, Tennessee) and was also Literature Coordinator. Cole also admitted that the Gangster Disciples purchased heroin, cocaine and methamphetamine from contacts in various states and transported the drugs into Tennessee. These drugs were regularly sold to associates in Memphis, Jackson and other areas of the state.

Cole is one of 16 Gangster Disciples in the Memphis and Jackson areas who were indicted in May 2016 for allegedly conspiring to participate in a racketeering enterprise.

On Wednesday, December 21, 2016, Cole pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise.

Cole is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Fowlkes on March 23, 2017.

He faces up to life in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI); the Jackson Police Department – Gang Enforcement Team; Police Departments for Memphis, Bartlett, Germantown and Columbia; Sheriff's Offices for Tipton, Desoto, Madison, and Fayette Counties; 28th District West Tennessee Drug Task Force; and 26th, 25th and 30th Judicial District Attorney's General's Offices.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jerry Kitchen, Beth Boswell, Michelle Parks and Samuel Stringfellow are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Jackson, TN – An alleged member of the Gangster Disciples has pleaded guilty to felony possession of a firearm that is linked to two gang-related shootings. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

According to information presented in court, on July 13, 2015, Jackson Police Department officers responded to a domestic disturbance call at an apartment in Madison County. Once law enforcement arrived, they observed Brandon Tavarious Purdy, 27, of Jackson, Tennessee, standing inside the apartment. Officers also noticed a .40 caliber handgun lying on the kitchen counter next to Purdy.

After Purdy was apprehended, an analysis was conducted on the firearm at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) lab. It was determined that the weapon was a match to casings collected at the scenes of two shootings involving the Gangster Disciples.

Purdy is reportedly a member of the Gangster Disciples, a highly-organized street gang that operates in more than 35 states and is responsible for violent acts and large-scale drug and firearm distribution.

Purdy has an extensive criminal history, including convictions for attempted second degree murder, attempted especially aggravated robbery, aggravated robbery and reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon.

On Thursday, December 22, 2016, Purdy pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge J. Daniel Breen to one count of felony possession of a firearm.

Purdy is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Breen on March 24, 2017 at 10 a.m.

He faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

This case is being investigated by the ATF and the Jackson Police Department – Gang Enforcement Team.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth C. Boswell is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A Texas man has pleaded guilty to falsely reporting a shooting threat to delay the departure of a Megabus. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

According to information presented in court, Kirk Stuart, 35, of Austin, Texas, planned to travel from Memphis to Dallas via Megabus on February 7, 2015. After realizing that he was going to miss the bus’ departure, he strategized a scheme to hinder it from leaving Memphis.

Using a companion’s phone, Stuart called a Memphis 911 operator and falsely advised that he and his brother were at the Memphis Area Transit Authority (MATA) North End bus terminal awaiting theMegabus’ departure. He informed the operator that his brother had a gun and was about to do "something for Allah, a Muslim thing for Allah," implying a shooting was about to take place on the bus.

Stuart provided a false description of his brother to the operator. The Memphis Police Department (MPD) was notified and officers were dispatched to the MATA terminal. On arrival, they discovered that a Megabus had recently left the terminal heading to Dallas. Officers determined the bus was traveling through Arkansas and advised Arkansas State Police (ASP). The Megabus was later located in Little Rock and searched by law enforcement. No one matching the description that Stuart provided to the 911 operator was found on the bus.

Through further investigation into the matter, law enforcement developed Stuart as a suspect of the false report. Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents interviewed Stuart in Dallas. He admitted to placing the fake emergency call in an effort to delay the Megabus long enough for he and his girlfriend to make its Dallas departure.

On Tuesday, December 20, 2016, Stuart pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Charmiane G. Claxton to one count of willfully and maliciously conveying false information.

Stuart is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman on Friday, March 24, 2017 at 10 a.m.

He faces up to five years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000 when sentenced.

This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Hall is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – Two men have been sentenced for their roles in a lucrative shipping theft scheme that defrauded FedEx and wireless carriers of more than $1.8 million. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.

According to information presented in court, Christopher T. Crawford, 32, of Memphis; and Jordan West, 28, of New York City; orchestrated a conspiracy to commit interstate shipping theft of wireless mobile devices from both Verizon and AT&T throughout 2013 and 2014. The mobile devices were being shipped to New York City and throughout the country by FedEx.

Crawford was employed with FedEx during a portion of the scheme’s duration. He used fraudulent FedEx corporate shipping accounts to print labels, which were used to over-label boxes of wireless devices. These boxes were diverted to West and other known and unknown co-conspirators in New York City and other areas through interstate commerce. Each box of merchandise contained thousands of dollars worth of Verizon and/or AT&T wireless mobile devices. West and other co-conspirators sold the mobile devices to third parties.

As part of the fraud, West sent thousands in U.S. currency via FedEx to Crawford for a share of the profits. Additionally, in mid-2013, Crawford contacted a FedEx vendor call center in Tucson, Arizona to set up a fraudulent corporate shipping meter account via his wireless mobile telephone.

Both defendants knew the wireless devices were stolen when they engaged in acts to perpetrate the crime. Ultimately, the interstate shipping theft scheme defrauded FedEx of more than $1.8 million.

On Thursday, December 15, 2016, Judge Fowlkes sentenced Crawford to 33 months in federal prison.

On Friday, December 16th, Judge Fowlkes sentenced West to 18 months in federal prison.

In addition to their sentences, Crawford and West will collectively be required to pay $1,812,226.08 in restitution.

This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and Memphis Cargo Theft Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Damon K. Griffin and Tony Arvin prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A Fayette County man has been sentenced to 151 months for unlawfully possessing a large amount of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it throughout West Tennessee. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, between 2014 and 2015, Jonathan Bufford, 43, of Somerville, Tennessee, was involved in a large-scale drug trafficking organization responsible for distributing large amounts of meth in the rural areas of West Tennessee.

Bufford purchased distribution amounts of meth regularly from a source of supply in the Memphis area. After transporting the drugs to Fayette County, Bufford would hire couriers to drive the meth to other rural counties, to provide to various individuals for distribution.

In April 2015, the Fayette County Sheriff’s Office received an anonymous complaint that Bufford was selling drugs out of his Somerville home. Investigators executed a search warrant on Bufford’s home and recovered 108 grams of meth, three scales and three cell phones.

In September 2016, Bufford pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court Judge Samuel H. Mays Jr. to one count of unlawfully possessing with the intent to distribute and to distribute multiple grams of meth.

On Thursday, December 15, 2016, Judge Mays sentenced Bufford to 151 months in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the 25th District Attorney General’s Office and Fayette County Sheriff’s Office.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – An armed career criminal andmember of the Gangster Disciples has been sentenced to 15 years in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, Arthur Alford, aka "Snoop," 35, of Ripley, Tennessee, unlawfully possessed a firearm, ammunition and drugs during the summer of 2015.

In December 2014, special agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) began working with local law enforcement officials in Lauderdale County to prosecute crimes committed by a group of individuals who were identified as members of street gangs.

As part of the investigation, on July 16, 2015, the agents executed a narcotics search warrant at the home of Alford, who they identified as a member of the Gangster Disciples. During the search, officers found $2,114 in drug proceeds, multiple grams of synthetic marijuana, packaging material, receipts, scales, drug ledgers, a loaded 9mm and a box of ammunition.

Alford has multiple felony convictions and is categorized as an armed career criminal.

In July 2016, Alford pleaded guilty to one count of unlawfully possessing a firearm.

On Wednesday, November 16, 2016, U.S. District Judge Sheryl H. Lipman sentenced Alford to 180 months in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the ATF and the 25th Judicial Drug Task Force.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Stringfellow prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN –A Shelby County Correctional Officer and two other individuals have been indicted for their roles in a scheme to smuggle prescription opioids and other contraband inside the Shelby County Correctional Center. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee; Michael T. Gavin, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Memphis Division; and Bill Gupton, Director of the Shelby County Division of Corrections, announced the indictments today.

"Committing criminal acts like those alleged threatens the reputation of the many correctional officers who perform their jobs with honor and integrity every day," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "This indictment should serve as a reminder that no one is excluded from criminal prosecution."

According to the indictments, Kevin Thomas, 38; Kalon Jennings, 29; and Aaron Travonta Wallace, 26; all of Memphis, Tennessee; attempted to smuggle oxycodone and other contraband into the Shelby County Correctional Center. The defendants’ criminal behavior was revealed during an undercover investigation law enforcement conducted between April 2015 and August 2016.

In addition to the smuggling of oxycodone, the investigation revealed that Jennings, a correctional officer, sold numerous inmates’ social security numbers in exchange for cash on two separate occasions.

"These indictments represent the successful cooperative efforts of the FBI and its partners to target those who would attempt to smuggle contraband into a Correctional Center and the corrupt Correctional Officers who assist them," said Gavin. "The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue those who choose to break the law, no matter where that may occur."

"Once we discovered the scheme, our staff immediately reported these actions to area law enforcement agencies," said Gupton. "This multi-agency investigation led to the arrests. It should send a clear message to our staff at the corrections center that the net is always out there. If policy violations or criminal actions occur, there will be swift consequences."

Thomas and Wallace are each being charged with one count of attempting to unlawfully possess with the intent to distribute and distribute oxycodone. If convicted, they face up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million.

Jennings is being charged with two counts of attempting to unlawfully possess with the intent to distribute and distribute oxycodone. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million per count.

Jennings is also being charged with two counts of unlawfully possessing and using the social security numbers of numerous inmates during the commission of a felony violation. If convicted, he faces a mandatory sentence of two years in federal prison, which is consecutive to any other term of imprisonment. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000.

This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Tarnished Badge Task Force and the Shelby County Correctional Center.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Whitmore is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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

Memphis, TN – A high-ranking member of the Gangster Disciples has been sentenced to 210 months in federal prison for felony possession and distribution of cocaine. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, Kevin Coleman aka "Booger," 34, of Covington, Tennessee, holds the rank of chief enforcer for the Covington region of the Gangster Disciples. A violent criminal organization present in more than 30 states, the Gangster Disciples are organized into different positions, including board members and governor-of-governors who each control geographic regions; governors, assistant governors, chief enforcers, and chief of security for each state or regions within the state where the Gangster Disciples are active.

Beginning in July 2014, agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) began investigating members of the Gangster Disciples in the Tipton County area. They later identified Coleman as the Chief Enforcer/Assistant Chief Enforcer for the Covington region.

As the Chief Enforcer, Coleman was tasked with administering punishment to members who violated gang rules. He also permitted other members to illegally possess firearms and commit violent actions when deemed necessary.

Because of his position of authority, Coleman was required to have a firearm at all times, or have another armed gang member accompany him. During the investigation, agents became aware of two instances in which Coleman ordered the physical punishment of two fellow gang members.

Law enforcement also discovered that Coleman regularly conspired with others to obtain cocaine from other high-level members of the Gangster Disciples for distribution.

On November 3, 2015, law enforcement officers conducted a knock-and-talk at Coleman’s residence. At the time, Coleman was on probation and, as part of his probation, agreed to a provision allowing law enforcement to search him or his residence without a warrant.

When Coleman came to the front door, law enforcement asked if he possessed anything illegal. He admitted to having cocaine on his kitchen table. A search was conducted on his residence and the cocaine was recovered. Agents also seized $1,100 in drug proceeds, a scale, and .45 caliber ammunition.

After waiving his Miranda rights, Coleman informed agents that he had been buying and selling cocaine since around 2011. He admitted to purchasing ounce quantities of cocaine once a week for distribution.

In June 2016, Coleman proceeded to trial. However, after the government presented their first witness, he pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Samuel H. Mays Jr. to one count of unlawfully possessing with the intent to distribute and distributing more than 500 grams of cocaine.

On Monday, November 14, Judge Mays sentenced Coleman to 210 months in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, 25th Judicial District Attorney General’s Office, and the Tipton County Sheriffs Office.

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Stringfellow prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – The Justice Department announced today that it will monitor the election on Tuesday, November 8, 2016, in Shelby County, Tennessee, to ensure compliance with the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights statutes. The Voting Rights Act prohibits discrimination in the election process on the basis of race, color or membership in a minority language group.

Department personnel will monitor polling place activities. A Civil Rights Division attorney will coordinate federal activities and maintain contact with local election officials.

To file complaints about discriminatory voting practices, including acts of harassment or intimidation, voters may call the Voting Section of the Civil Rights Division at 1-800-253-3931. In addition, individuals may also report such complaints by fax to 202-307-3961, by email to voting.section@usdoj.gov and via complaint form on the Department’s website: www.justice.gov/crt/votercomplaint.

Visit www.usdoj.gov/crt/voting for more information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting laws.

Memphis, TN – A Collierville man has been convicted by a federal jury for unlawfully possessing eight firearms. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty verdict today.

According to information presented in court, Robert Bates, 38, of Collierville, Tennessee, unlawfully possessed eight firearms on July 9, 2015. The firearms included three pistols, four rifles and a shotgun.

Bates was the defendant in a civil action in 2015. The plaintiff obtained a judgment against Bates over unpaid attorney fees. Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO) personnel, in addition to a collections attorney and a collections agent, visited Bates’ Collierville residence to execute on the civil money judgment. While at the residence, eight firearms were located in the master bedroom. Bates had previously been convicted of a felony in 2006.

On Wednesday, November 2, 2016, a federal jury convicted Bates of eight counts of felony possession of a firearm. Each count carries a penalty of up to 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

Bates is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. on Friday, February 23, 2017.

This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys David Pritchard and Will Crow are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – U.S. Attorney Edward L. Stanton III has announced the promotion of five attorneys and support staff members to new positions within the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

"Each of these individuals has displayed an exceptional work ethic and unwavering dedication toward the U.S. Attorney’s Office and its mission," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "I am confident that the experience and diligence they bring to their new leadership positions will continue to make them assets to the office and community."

Among those promoted to new positions are:

• Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll Andre

Mr. Andre has been promoted to deputy criminal chief. With three decades of experience as an AUSA, Mr. Andre is a veteran prosecutor who primarily handles white-collar cases. In his new role, Mr. Andre will assist the office’s criminal chief with overseeing the criminal division’s execution of day-to-day responsibilities. In the absence of the criminal chief and senior litigation counsel, he will also review pleadings and handle any criminal division inquiries.

• Assistant U.S. Attorney Beth Boswell

Ms. Boswell has been promoted to chief of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) Unit. Ms. Boswell has been with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for five years, primarily prosecuting firearm and drug cases. With respect to her new role, Ms. Boswell will oversee OCDETF and other narcotics-related cases throughout West Tennessee. She will also act as a liaison between the office and fellow federal, state and local law enforcement agencies involved in conducting drug investigations.

• Assistant U.S. Attorney Keenan Carter

Mr. Carter has been promoted to deputy civil chief. He came to the U.S. Attorney’s Office as a seasoned civil litigator, and served as a criminal prosecutor for the office’s Firearms Unit for three years. Mr. Carter returned to civil litigation when he transferred to the office’s Civil Division in 2015. As deputy civil chief, Mr. Carter will take on an additional role in overall case management, as well as new administrative duties within the civil division.

• Marian Peete

Ms. Peete, formerly the lead legal assistant for the Violent Crimes Unit, has been promoted to supervisory legal assistant. With respect to her new position, Ms. Peete will coordinate training and management for the legal staff. She will also maintain and build upon the professional relationship between support staff, attorneys, management and the federal court system.

• LaRita Bearden

Formerly the office’s supervisory legal assistant, Ms. Bearden has been promoted to victim witness specialist. Under this role, Bearden will provide a variety of notifications, case updates and assistance services to victims and witnesses of federal crimes who have suffered physical, financial, and/or emotional trauma. Her sympathetic manner is a plus to this position. The 10-year veteran will also help coordinate community outreach efforts with partnering agencies.

Memphis, TN – U.S. Attorney Edward L. Stanton III announced today that Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) Reagan M. Taylor will lead the efforts of his office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 8, 2016, general elections. AUSA Taylor has been appointed to serve as the District Election Officer (DEO) for the Western District of Tennessee, and in that capacity is responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of complaints of election fraud and voting rights abuses in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.

U.S. Attorney Stanton said, "Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted without it being stolen because of fraud. The Department of Justice will act promptly and aggressively to protect the integrity of the election process."

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

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

The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of election fraud or voting rights abuses on November 8, 2016, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, U.S. Attorney Stanton stated that AUSA Taylor will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. She can be reached by the public at the following telephone number: (901) 544-4231.

In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (901) 747-4300.

Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section in Washington, DC by phone at 1-800-253-3931 or (202) 307-2767, by fax at (202) 307-3961, by email to voting.section@usdoj.gov or by complaint form at http://www.justice.gov/crt/complaint/votintake/index.php.

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

Memphis, TN – Two men have been indicted on federal charges for allegedly robbing a gas station and a Brink’s armored truck guard at gunpoint. A man who allegedly robbed an armored car guard has been charged in a separate indictment. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictments today.

According to the indictment, Cornelius Richmond, 48, and Roderick Herron, 50; both of Memphis, Tennessee; robbed a Circle K on North Germantown Parkway in Cordova on April 26, 2016.

Three days later, on April 29, 2016, Richmond and Herron robbed a Brink’s armored truck guard at gunpoint. At the time of the robbery, the victim was in the process of loading cash into the ATM machine at a Regions Bank on Austin Peay Highway.

Both defendants have been charged with two counts of robbery affecting interstate commerce, and one count of brandishing a weapon during a crime of violence. Richmond was also charged with one count of felony possession of a firearm.

Additionally, James Edward Lacey Jr., 31, of Memphis, Tennessee, has been indicted federally for his involvement in a separate robbery.

According to his indictment, Lacey unlawfully possessed a firearm on August 13, 2016.

Five days later, on August 18, 2016, Lacey robbed a Dunbar Armored Service guard. The guard was performing services at the Memphis, Light, Gas and Water (MLGW) office on Summer Avenue at the time of the robbery.

Lacey has been charged with one count of robbery affecting interstate commerce and one count of felony possession of a firearm.

If convicted, all three of the aforementioned defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison for their individual robbery counts. Richmond and Herron face a mandatory minimum sentence of five years for the count of brandishing a weapon during a crime of violence. Lacey and Richmond also face up to 10 years for felony firearm possession. All charges carry individual fines of up to $250,000.

These cases are being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s West Tennessee Violent Crime Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Whitmore is prosecuting these cases on the government’s behalf.

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

Memphis, TN – Four members of the Gangster Disciples have been sentenced to more than 30 years for robbing a convenience store and a drug dealer. Two of the defendants were previously on the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation’s (TBI) "Top 10 Most Wanted" list. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentences today.

The defendants and their respective sentences:

• Joe Reed, aka "Four Times," 26, of Ripley, Tennessee, 120 months

• Antwone Crew, aka "Gator," 26, of Ripley, Tennessee, 109 months

• Andreas Wells, aka "Drizzy," 20, of Ripley, Tennessee, 106 months

• Sequna Copeland, aka "Cutthroat," 27, of Ripley, Tennessee, 27 months

According to the information presented in court, on the evening of December 10, 2014, Reed, Wells and Crew robbed the Ripley Express Convenience Store in Ripley, Tennessee. The three defendants entered the store masked and armed with firearms. One of them pointed a shotgun at the store clerk as he took money from the register.

A couple hours later, law enforcement officers were informed that several men wearing masks and carrying guns were outside of a trailer home in the Gates, Tennessee area, and that a robbery was about to take place.

Law enforcement arrived on the scene in time to observe the masked men run inside the trailer and a man run out of the back. Officers knocked on the door, and four people came outside. The officers asked if the individuals had seen anything suspicious. The individuals denied seeing anything, and also denied the officers entry into the residence.

Officers looked around the area and discovered some clothing near the home that matched clothing seen on the surveillance video from the Ripley Express robbery. Officers also looked around a Buick Century that neighbors saw the armed men exit before approaching the trailer. Officers saw a firearm sitting inside the car. The firearm and additional clothing seen in the Ripley Express robbery surveillance video were recovered. The vehicle was towed, and the officers eventually left the area.

Shortly after leaving, an anonymous tip came in notifying the police that they needed to return to the trailer because robbers were still inside the home.

Through witness interviews, search warrants, and GPS information, law enforcement identified the perpetrators. Crew and Wells were subsequently arrested.

Reed and Copeland avoided apprehension collectively for eight months and were placed on TBI’s "Most Wanted" list before being captured.

On July 30, 2015, Copeland, while under oath and testifying as a witness in a proceeding before Grand Jury, made a false statement to prevent the punishment of Reed and Crew.

Between March and June 2016, Reed, Wells and Crew all pleaded guilty to one count of knowingly conspiring with each other to take drugs and drug proceeds from a drug dealer, and one count of aiding and abetting each other while carrying a firearm during the robbery of a drug dealer.

In July 2016, Copeland pleaded guilty to one count of perjury.

The defendants were sentenced by U.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. between June and October 2016.

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

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A man who created child pornography and engaged in sexually explicit conduct with two prepubescent female minors has been sentenced to more than a century in federal prison. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, Terrence Milam, 37, of Memphis, Tennessee, produced photographs and videos of himself sexually abusing two female minors between October 2013 and late January 2015. He used a smartphone to record the videos and take the images.

The abuse of the two victims came to light when a Memphis Police Department (MPD) officer on routine patrol discovered Milam and one of the children parked in a deserted school parking lot. When the officer approached the vehicle, he saw Milam struggling to put on his pants. Law enforcement obtained search warrants to review the contents of two cell phones found in the vehicle. This led to discovery of sexually explicit images and the identification of a second victim.

Milam’s abuse of the two children began when one of the victims was approximately nine years old and the other was 11.

In July 2016, Milam entered an Alford plea before U.S. District Judge Samuel H. Mays to five counts of production of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.

On Friday, October 7, 2016, Judge Mays sentenced Milam to 170 years in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Child Exploitation Task Force and the MPD.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Deb Ireland prosecuted this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A man who allegedly executed a scheme that defrauded Regions Bank and other financial institutions of more than $200,000 has been indicted on federal charges. He is considered a fugitive at this time. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.

According to the indictment, Ocho Edi Monso, 52, of Memphis, Tennessee, conspired with Dasse Romain Yobo and others to execute a scheme to defraud Regions Bank and other financial institutions between July 2013 and January 2014.

The conspirators unlawfully obtained money and customer account information from Regions and other financial institutions. The conspirators used the information to call and/or fax the financial institution where the customer maintained their account and falsely represented that they were the customer. Funds were subsequently transferred from the customer’s account to accounts controlled by the conspirators.

As part of the scheme, the conspirators also deposited altered or counterfeit checks to accounts they opened at financial institutions. They then withdrew or transferred funds from the account of deposit to accounts they controlled at other financial institutions.

For example, in December 2013, Monso provided Yobo with fraudulent information to open an account at Regions Bank under the name KEM Construction. That same month, a check payable in the amount of $130,949.96 with an altered payee name was deposited to the account.

In January 2014, the conspirators requested that $77,023.83 be wire-transferred from the KEM Construction account to an account styled "Peniel Energy" in Lawrenceville, GA.

In July 2016, Monso also possessed at least 15 counterfeit and unauthorized access devices and device-making equipment with intent to defraud.

The indictment against Monso was returned under seal last month. The U.S. Attorney's Office filed a motion to unseal the indictment earlier this week due to the belief that Monso is aware that law enforcement officers are looking for him. Thus far, Monso has avoided apprehension.

Monso is being charged with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud; one count of possession of 15 or more counterfeit access devices with intent to defraud; and one count of possession of device-making equipment with intent to defraud.

The bank fraud charge carries a penalty of up to 30 years and a fine of up to $1 million. The possession of counterfeit access devices charge carries a penalty of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000. And the possession of device-making equipment charge carries a penalty of up to 15 years and a fine of up to $250,000.

This case is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll Andre is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Monso is also facing charges in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. A bench warrant was issued for his arrest after he failed to attend a scheduled court appearance in Baton Rouge on October 4, 2016.

Anyone with information about Monso's whereabouts is asked to contact Sgt. Brad Less with the U.S. Secret Service Economic Crimes Task Force at (901) 544-0333, or U.S. Postal Inspector Kyle W. Parker at (901) 746-1024.

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

Memphis, TN – A man allegedly responsible for distributing a large amount of heroin that resulted in the fatal overdose of at least one person has been indicted. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.

According to the indictment, Marvin Foster, aka "Pookie," 49, of Halls, Tennessee, distributed more than 100 grams of heroin throughout the counties of Lauderdale, Tipton, and Dyer between January 2013 and January 2015. The heroin distributed by Foster is responsible for the death of at least one person.

On Thursday, September 29, 2016, Foster was indicted on one count of possession with the intent to distribute and to distribute more than 100 grams of heroin, which resulted in the death of a person.

Foster is scheduled to make his initial appearance in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tu M. Pham on Monday, October 24, 2016.

If convicted, Foster faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $10 million.

This case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the 25th Judicial Drug Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Sam Stringfellow is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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

Memphis, TN – Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced today that the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI) and the Memphis Police Department (MPD) have both received Department of Justice (DOJ) grants that collectively amount to more than $800,000.

The TBI is one of eight agencies nationwide selected to receive funding from the DOJ’s Community Oriented Policing Services’ (COPS) Anti-Methamphetamine Program. Under the program, the TBI received $446,802 to investigate illicit activities related to the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine.

Additionally, the MPD is among multiple law enforcement agencies selected to receive funding from the DOJ’s Office of Justice Programs. The MPD has been awarded $401,193 as part of the Department’s Technology Innovation for Public Safety (TIPS) Program. The TIPS funding will enable the MPD to reduce violent crime, enhance mobile operation and increase community participation in its crime-reduction efforts. The proposed intervention will expand information sharing and analysis through license-plate recognition, and also expand MPD Real Time Crime Center (RTCC) assistance.

"The DOJ funding allotted to both the TBI and MPD will enable them to further their unwavering efforts in crime and drug prevention," said U.S. Attorney Stanton. "Totaling more than $800,000 collectively, these grants underscore the DOJ’s commitment to keeping our citizens and communities safe."

Memphis, TN – The Justice Department has announced that the independent federal review into the fatal shooting of Darrius Stewart on July 17, 2015, in Memphis, Tennessee, found insufficient evidence to support federal criminal civil rights charges against Memphis Police Department (MPD) Officer Connor Schilling.

Officials from the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Western District of Tennessee met today with Stewart’s family and their representatives to inform them of this decision.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee, the Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) conducted a comprehensive independent review of the circumstances related to Stewart’s death. This included a review of witness statements, video footage, and other information obtained during the 2015 investigation conducted by the MPD and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation (TBI). Additionally, federal investigators consulted with the Shelby County Medical Examiner and a TBI forensic scientist.

In conducting the review, federal authorities were tasked with determining whether Schilling violated federal law by willfully using unreasonable force against Stewart. Under the applicable federal criminal civil rights statute, Title 18, United States Code, Section 242, prosecutors must establish, beyond a reasonable doubt, that a law enforcement officer willfully deprived an individual of a constitutional right. To establish willfulness, federal authorities must show that the officer acted with the deliberate and specific intent to do something the law forbids. This is the highest standard imposed by law. Mistake, misperception, negligence, or poor judgment is not sufficient to establish a federal civil rights violation.

In this case, civilian witnesses saw a physical confrontation between Schilling and Stewart. It is uncontroverted that Schilling and Stewart engaged in a violent struggle for several minutes before Schilling shot Stewart. Video evidence shows that at one point Stewart was able to get on top of Schilling. Based on these eyewitness accounts, the statement of the officer involved, the video, and the physical evidence, there is insufficient evidence to disprove Schilling’s assertion that he needed to use deadly force against Stewart.

Federal authorities further determined that there is insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Schilling’s second shot was unreasonable. Much of the evidence tends to show that the second shot followed only a few seconds after the first. Since eyewitness accounts and physical evidence both indicate that the second shot came very soon after Stewart stood up in close proximity to Schilling, the evidence cannot establish that the threat initially posed by Stewart had abated at the time of the second shot. Under the law, the use of deadly force is justified when an officer has reasonable cause to believe that a suspect poses a threat of serious physical harm, either to the officer or to others. In this particular matter, the evidence does not disprove Schilling's account that he used no more force than he reasonably believed necessary to protect himself and to stop a perceived threat.

Based on a careful and thorough review, federal investigators determined that there is insufficient evidence to establish beyond a reasonable doubt that Schilling violated Section 242. Accordingly, the federal review of this incident has been closed without prosecution. This decision is limited strictly to an application of the high legal standard required to prosecute the case under the federal civil rights statute; it does not reflect an assessment of any other aspect of the incident.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Tennessee, along with its law enforcement partners, remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force and will continue to devote the resources required to ensure that all serious allegations of civil rights violations are thoroughly examined. The Justice Department will aggressively prosecute criminal civil rights violations whenever there is sufficient evidence to do so.

Memphis, TN – The fifth and final defendant in an interstate shipping theft scheme that defrauded FedEx and wireless carriers of more than $500,000 has pleaded guilty to wire fraud. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the guilty plea today.

According to information presented in court, Christopher T. Crawford, 31, of Memphis, Tennessee, is a former FedEx material handler. In 2013, he established a fraudulent FedEx corporate shipping meter account when he called FedEx via a stolen telephone and provided false information to a customer services representative in Arizona to access and utilize a corporate account. Shipping labels were created from the shipping meter account Crawford established.

The account was used by Crawford and known and unknown co-conspirators during their scheme. These individuals used fraudulent FedEx corporate shipping labels to over-label boxes of wireless devices. The boxes were diverted to other known and unknown co-conspirators in New York City and other locations through interstate commerce. Each box of merchandise contained thousands of dollars worth of Verizon and/or AT&T wireless mobile telephones.

Ultimately, this scheme defrauded FedEx and the wireless carriers of between $550,000 and $1.5 million.

In March and July of 2016, Crawford’s co-defendants Akeem Gowdy, 23; and Tavaris Mickens, 23; both of Memphis, Tennessee; Jordan West, 27; and Juan Royal, 24; both of New York City, New York; pleaded guilty to conspiracy and interstate shipping theft charges respectively.

On Monday, September 26, 2016, Crawford pleaded guilty beforeU.S. District Judge John T. Fowlkes Jr. to one count of wire fraud.

He is scheduled to be sentenced on December 15, 2016. Crawford faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000.

The case is being investigated by the United States Secret Service, Federal Bureau of Investigations, and Memphis Cargo Theft Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Damon K. Griffin and Tony Arvin are prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

Memphis, TN – A real estate investor has been charged in a 14-count indictment that alleges he defrauded three banks and a mortgage lending business. Edward L. Stanton III, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennessee, announced the indictment today.

According to the indictment, Thomas L. Boyd, 43, of Memphis, Tennessee, owned a real estate agency, Wonderful Properties, LLC. Between April 2006 and September 2014, Boyd, aided and abetted by others, allegedly engaged in a scheme to defraud Regions Bank, Bank of America, First Tennessee Bank, and Oak Tree Funding.

Boyd allegedly made false statements in connection with mortgage loan applications for persons who were financing the purchase of properties from his company. In many instances, the defendant failed to disclose to lenders on HUD-1 settlement sheets that he was paying a portion of the loan proceeds to the borrowers.

Boyd's alleged scheme caused the lenders to disburse approximately $653,000 in loan proceeds.

On Thursday, September 22, Boyd was arrested and had his initial appearance in federal court before U.S. Magistrate Judge Tu M. Pham.

Boyd is being charged with eight counts of bank fraud, two counts of mail fraud, and four counts of money laundering. Each count of bank fraud carries a penalty of up to 30 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $1 million; each count of mail fraud carries a penalty of up to 20 years and a fine of up to $250,000; and each count of money laundering carries a penalty of up to 10 years and a fine of up to $250,000.

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Federal Housing Finance Agency - Office of Inspector General; Department of Housing and Urban Development - Office of Inspector General; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and IRS-Criminal Investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll L. Andre III is prosecuting this case on the government’s behalf.

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