Northern District of Texas

A man from Water Valley, Texas, was sentenced today to serve 60 years in prison for producing hundreds of videos and images of himself sexually abusing a child, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Douglas Stephen Groover, 37, was sentenced after pleading guilty in February 2020 to two counts of production of child pornography.  The sentence, which was imposed by United States District Judge James Wesley Hendrix of the Northern District of Texas, also included a lifetime term of supervised release and a restitution award of $53,000.

According to court documents, in addition to the hundreds of videos and images he created of himself sexually abusing a minor, he also admitted to sexually abusing at least two additional minors.  Groover also admitted to maintaining a large collection of child pornography, which included depictions of the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers, sadism and bestiality.

The case was investigated by HSI’s San Angelo, Texas, office, and the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the High Technology Investigative Unit within the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Criminal Division.  Trial Attorney Kyle P. Reynolds of CEOS and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey R. Haag prosecuted the case along with former Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell H. Lorfing.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

A man from Water Valley, Texas, was sentenced today to serve 60 years in prison for producing hundreds of videos and images of himself sexually abusing a child. 

Douglas Stephen Groover, 37, was sentenced after pleading guilty in February 2020 to two counts of production of child pornography.  The sentence, which was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix of the Northern District of Texas, also included a lifetime term of supervised release and a restitution award of $53,000. 

According to court documents, in addition to the hundreds of videos and images he created of himself sexually abusing a minor, he also admitted to sexually abusing at least two additional minors.  Groover also admitted to maintaining a large collection of child pornography, which included depictions of the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers, sadism and bestiality.

The case was investigated by HSI’s San Angelo, Texas, office, and the Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the High Technology Investigative Unit within the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Criminal Division.  Trial Attorney Kyle P. Reynolds of CEOS and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey R. Haag prosecuted the case along with former Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell H. Lorfing.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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

Even as the COVID-19 crisis disrupts our nation, law enforcement in North Texas has stepped up to keep our citizens safe.

In honor of National Police Week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas partnered with District Attorney’s Office from across North Texas to thank the many officers and agents who have gone above and beynd the call of duty.  You can watch the video on Twitter or Facebook.

 

United States Attorney Erin Nealy Cox: Even as a public health crisis disrupts our nation, law enforcement in North Texas has really stepped up.

Courtney Coker, Deputy Criminal Chief: They’ve been hard at work, patrolling our streets …

Laura Montes, Assistant U.S. Attorney:  … arresting dangerous criminals …

Jeff Haag, West Texas Branch Chief: … conducting investigations …

Lillian Stewart, Managing Assistant U.S. Attorney: … and keeping our citizens safe.

Steve Fahey, Acting First Assistant U.S. Attorney: Our rank and file officers and agents are exceeding the call of duty, putting themselves at risk to maintain law and order.

Alex Lewis, Fort Worth Branch Chief: So from all of us here at the United States Attorney’s Office …

Felicia Kerney, Dallas County District Attorney’s Office: … and from local prosecutors in Dallas …

Tiffany Burks, Tarrant County District Attorney’s Office: … Tarrant County …

Eddie Wharff, Lubbock County District Attorney’s Office: … in Lubbock …

Robert Love, Randall County District Attorney’s Office: … the Panhandle …   

Katherine Miller, Assistant U.S. Attorney: … and from all the citizens of the Northern District of Texas …

Steve Fahey:  Thank you.

Laura Montes:  Thank you.

Tiffany Burks: Thank you.

Alex Lewis: Thank you.

Robert Love:  Thank you.

Felicia Kerney: Thank you.

Jeff Haag: Thank you.

Erin Nealy Cox: So to our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we’re forever grateful for the way you’ve had our backs during the COVID-19 pandemic. We promise you one thing: We’ll always back the blue.

CHARGED – Lakee Ealey, Crystal Ealey & Rodrick McKinney *

On May 6, a federal grand jury in Amarillo indicted Lakee Donae Ealey, 38, Crystal Hernandez Ealey, 33, and Rodrick Rashad McKinney, 21, on one count each of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, interference with commerce by robbery, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. The defendants allegedly stole approximately $933,000 from an armored vehicle owned by Brinks, a security logistic company. They allegedly threatened the driver at gunpoint, then fled the scene, money in hand, in a pickup truck they later set on fire. The defendants face up to 47 years in federal prison.  The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by AUSAs Joe Magliolo and Gary Tromblay of NDTX’s Dallas Office.

 

CHARGED – Jesse Whitaker *

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Jesse Navarro Whitaker, 45, on one count of assaulting a federal officer, one count of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, and one count of discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. The defendant allegedly used a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol to assault three Bureau of Prisons correctional officers at FCI Seagoville. Whitaker faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in federal prison. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Prisons and prosecuted by AUSA Gary Tromblay of NDTX’s Dallas Office.

 

CHARGED – 8 alleged drug traffickers *

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Carrington Marshall Thomas,  27, Broderick Deshane Jones, 25,  Roderick Dewayne Jones, 26,  Dominique Rondrell Thompson, 21, Jonathan Taylor Singletary, 25, Adrian Trayvon Spears, 20, Zeric Queontrahl Moore, 23, and James Chadrick Robinson, 21, for conspiracy to knowingly possess firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison. The case was investigated by the ATF and prosecuted by AUSA Shawn Smith of NDTX’s Fort Worth Office.

 

CHARGED – Manuel Chavez & Michelle Miranda * 

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Manuel Conception Chavez, 28, and Michelle Monique Miranda, 19, on charges of interference with commerce by robbery. On January 19, the pair allegedly used force and threats of violence to steal money from employees of a Family Dollar Store in Dallas. Both defendants face up to 20 years in federal prison. The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by AUSA Abe McGlothin of NDTX’s Dallas Office.

 

CHARGED – Reginald Foster *

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Reginald Santel Foster, 40, on two counts of possession with intent to distribute heroin, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, namely a Taurus revolver. Foster faces up to 30 years in federal prison. The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by AUSA Phelesa Guy of NDTX’s Dallas Office.

 

CHARGED – Shane Burkett * 

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Shane Dwayne Burkett, 18, on one count of illegal receipt of a firearm by a person under indictment, as well as conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The defendant, who was already under indictment in Dallas County for burglary of a building, evading arrest, and unauthorized use of a vehicle, allegedly received a .40 caliber Glock. Burkett faces up to 30 years in federal prison. The case was investigated by Dallas Police Department and Texas DPS and prosecuted by AUSA P.J. Meitl of NDTX’s Dallas Office.

 

CHARGED – Christopher Owens * 

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Christopher Darnell Owens, 34, for attempted child sex trafficking and obstruction of justice. If convicted, he faces up to life in federal prison. The case was investigated by HSI and prosecuted by AUSA Becky Ricketts of NDTX’s Dallas Office.

 

CHARGED – Hannah Edwards *

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Hannah Nicole Edwards, 24, for sexual exploitation of a child. The defendant allegedly took lewd photos of a male toddler’s genitals on her iPhone. Edwards faces up to 30 years in federal prison. The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by AUSA Aisha Saleem of NDTX’s Fort Worth Office.

 

CHARGED – Tania Delarosa * 

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Tania Delarosa, 42, on an attempted bank robbery charge. On March 27, the defendant allegedly attempted to steal U.S. currency from a Bank of America in Dallas. Delarosa faces up to 20 years in federal prison. The case was investigated by the Dallas Police Department and FBI and prosecuted by AUSA Becky Ricketts of NDTX’s Dallas Office.

 

CHARGED – Victor Martinez *

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Victor Martinez, 40, on conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, prohibited person in possession of a firearm, and possession of an unregistered firearm. The drug-dealing defendant allegedly possessed a gun silencer that was not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration & Transfer Record. Martinez faces up to life in federal custody. The case was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by AUSA Rachel Jones of NDTX’s Dallas Office.

 

CHARGED – Franklin Watson *

On May 6, a federal grand jury indicted Franklin Delano Watson, 32, for possession with intent to distribute methylenedioxymethamphetamine, commonly known as ecstasy. Watson faces up to 20 years in federal prison. The case was investigated by the ATF and Texas DPS and prosecuted by AUSA Rob Boudreau of NDTX’s Fort Worth Office.

 

*All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Two Brownsville men have been charged with smuggling guns from Texas to Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

A federal grand jury in Amarillo on Wednesday indicted Jose Celby Hernandez, a 30-year-old U.S. citizen, and Rene Rangel-Manjarrez, a 33-year-old legal permanent resident, on one count each of conspiracy to smuggle goods from the United States and one count each of smuggling goods from the United States.

According to the indictment, the defendants allegedly purchased multiple firearms – through private sales, from a federally licensed firearms dealer (FFL), and from an ATF undercover agent – for the purpose of exporting the guns to Mexico.

In order to avoid attracting undue suspicion, Mr. Hernandez allegedly recruited other individuals, including Mr. Rangel-Manjarrez, to purchase firearms on his behalf.

The straw purchasers, including Mr. Rangel-Manjarrez, allegedly lied on their ATF form 4473s, stating that they were the actual purchasers of the firearms, when they knew they intended to turn the guns over to Mr. Hernandez to be exported to Mexico.

Over a two month period, the pair allegedly purchased at least half a dozen .50 caliber Barrett rifles, a weapon of choice for International Firearms Trafficking Organizations.  These firearms are highly sought after by organizations like the Gulf Cartel for their ability to penetrate armored vehicles, aircraft, concrete shelters, and bullet-resisting targets.  Barrett rifles are capable of engaging targets at ranges of over one mile. 

“These defendants subverted important gun laws and smuggled lethal weapons across our borders,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “This prosecution is a public safety win for communities in the United States and in Mexico.”

“Preventing and disrupting firearms trafficking is a Dallas Field Division priority,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II.  “These arrests highlight the ATF and Department of Justice’s combined focus on combatting gun crime under Project Guardian.”

The defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

If convicted, they each face up to 10 years in federal prison.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives’ Dallas Field Division, Homeland Security Investigations, the Irving Police Department and the Dallas Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Phelesa Guy is prosecuting the case.

The case was brought under Project Guardian, the Justice Department’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence using federal firearm laws.

 

A Fort Worth child sexual predator was sentenced Monday to 80 years in federal prison announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Tyrone Alexander Taylor, 42, pled guilty in October to two counts of sexual exploitation of a child and possession of a visual depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct.

“This sentence, essentially a life sentence, exemplifies the seriousness of this horrible conduct – one committed against the most vulnerable among us,” stated U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “We will continue to dedicate whatever resources necessary to bring to justice to predators who prey on and victimize children.”

"The FBI works with our law enforcement partners every day to ensure that children are protected from predators who seek to exploit them," said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. "Today's outcome is the result of collaboration and commitment to holding a sexual predator accountable for their actions. We ask that the public continue to remain vigilant and report any suspected child exploitation to the FBI or local law enforcement."

According to court documents, FBI agents launched their investigation after a computer repair business reported discovering child pornography on a hard drive owned by Taylor. After meeting with a business representative to review the images that depicted child pornography, agents took custody of the hard drive and conducted a forensic review of the device.

Taylor admitted the hard drive belonged to him and that it contained a number of child pornography videos and images – some as young as 9.

Taylor and codefendant, Shannon Nichols, sentenced in February to 50 years in federal prison, sexually victimized children by using them to create child pornography, which Taylor meticulously stored on his computer.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Saleem prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a Justice Department initiative designed to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse nationwide. The initiative organizes and deploys federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.

The Department of Justice and federal prosecutors remain vigilant in investigating and prosecuting landlords and property managers who sexually harass tenants during the COVID-19 pandemic, warned U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, many Americans have lost their jobs and many more have seen their wages curtailed. These losses have forced tenants to seek abatements or suspensions of their rent, with reports that nearly one third of Americans were unable to pay their April rent at the beginning of the month.

Many landlords have responded to these circumstances with compassion, working together with their tenants to weather the current crisis. However, other landlords have responded to requests to defer rent payments with demands for sexual favors and other acts of unwelcome sexual conduct.

“Tenants should never have to choose between housing and sexual harassment,” stated U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “Sexual harassment by those who prey on vulnerable tenants is both reprehensible and illegal.  If you have been a victim of sexual harassment, please report it to 1-844-380-6178 or fairhousing@usdoj.gov.”

In a memo, Attorney General William Barr stated, “The current times are difficult enough without predatory practices by unscrupulous landlords.  We must stop such behavior in its tracks. ”

Attorney General Barr has directed the Civil Rights Division and every U.S. Attorney's Office to devote all necessary resources to investigate reports of housing-related sexual harassment resulting from the current crisis. In late 2017, the Civil Rights Division launched the Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative to combat sexual harassment in housing. The Civil Rights Division, together with the U.S. Attorney’s Offices, enforces the Fair Housing Act, which prohibits discrimination in housing on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, familial status, national origin and disability. Sexual harassment is a form of sex discrimination the law prohibits.

To address predatory practices by unscrupulous landlords, Attorney General Barr directed Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights, Eric Dreiband, and Christina Nolan, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Vermont to oversee and coordinate U.S. Attorneys’ Offices efforts to devote all necessary resources to investigate reports of housing-related sexual harassment resulting from the current crisis.

“The Fair Housing Act authorizes the U.S. Department of Justice take swift action against anyone who sexually harasses tenants,” said Eric Dreiband, Assistant Attorney General for Civil Rights. “Landlords, property owners, and others who prey on vulnerable tenants during the COVID-19 pandemic should be on notice. We will bring the full resources of the United States Department of Justice to the fight against sexual harassment in housing. We will defend the right of tenants and their families to live peacefully and securely in their homes without the added stress, pain, fear, and turmoil of dealing with sexual predators.”

Unfortunately, many instances of sexual harassment in housing continue to go unreported. This is further exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many investigations frequently uncover sexual harassment that has been ongoing for years and identify numerous victims who never reported the conduct to federal authorities.

In a public service announcement, U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox urged victims of sexual harassment by a landlord, property manager, loan officer, maintenance worker, security guard, or other person who has control over housing to contact:

Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative

1-844-380-6178

fairhousing@usdoj.gov

For more information: justice.gov/crt/sexual-harassment-housing-initiative. 

A suspected neo-Nazi has been sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for a gun crime, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Aiden Bruce-Umbaugh, 23, pleaded guilty to possession of firearms and ammunition by a prohibited person in Lubbock in January. Appearing via video teleconference from the Lubbock County Detention Center, the defendant was sentenced today before U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix.

According to his plea papers, Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh – who was arrested in November in Post, Texas, dressed in tactical gear – admitted to possessing AR-15 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol, and assorted ammunition while being an unlawful user of a controlled substance. (Federal law prohibits unlawful users of controlled substances to possess firearms.)

Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh admits he and Kaleb Cole were pulled over in a blue Ford in which law enforcement officers discovered the firearms, a small canister of marijuana, and a vial of THC oil.

Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh – who “avoided eye contact and limited conversation” with law enforcement and denied having anything illegal inside the vehicle during the traffic stop – later admitted that the firearms, marijuana, and THC belonged to him, telling investigators he smoked marijuana on a daily basis, according to plea papers.

In a detention hearing in November, prosecutors argued the government had reason to believe Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh is a member of AtomWaffen Division, a neo-Nazi hate group.

In jailhouse phone calls, Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh allegedly referenced his affiliation with “the group,” declared he was “a Nazi,” and discussed a photo taken of him and another AtomWaffen Division member at the Auschwitz concentration camp, prosecutors said at the detention hearing.

Video released by the Court in February shows the defendant, handcuffed and clad in an orange jumpsuit, telling agents, “I assume you’re here because of my swastika flag and my firearms.” 

AtomWaffen propaganda videos also admitted into evidence depict members of the Nazi group at self-described “hate camps,” spewing hateful rhetoric against Jews, practicing hand-to-hand combat and shooting firearms.

“Race war now!” they cry, before one displays a Nazi salute.

“The Northern District of Texas is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals,” U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox said after the defendant pleaded guilty. “As a drug user, this defendant should never have been allowed to possess firearms. We’re grateful to our law enforcement partners for helpings us keep this defendant, and his guns, off the streets.”

“The amount of weapons and ammunition seized from the defendant could have caused serious harm. Luckily, the FBI and our law enforcement partners successfully intervened before an act of violence could be committed,” FBI Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno said then. “The FBI will continue working with our partners to protect the communities we serve.”

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Lubbock Resident Agency, the Garza County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Rancourt is prosecuting the case.

In partnership with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, federal prosecutors are poised to take action against criminals targeting the Economic Impact Payments (EIP) that are being hand-delivered by the U.S. Postal Service, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

“A wave of scammers and thieves are working overtime during the COVID-19 pandemic to defraud the American public of their Economic Impact Payments,” warned U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox.  “I urge the public to report any suspicious, fraudulent, or criminal activity related to the Coronavirus to law enforcement authorities.”

Amid economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was signed into law. The $2 trillion in financial relief package mandated distribution of EIPs to millions of Americans. These EIPs are being delivered in two ways: direct deposit into the recipient’s bank accounts and Treasury checks or debit cards mailed by the U.S. Treasury through the United States Postal Service.

More than 89.5 million individuals, including 7.8 million Texans, have received EIPs worth nearly $160 billion in benefits during the program’s first three weeks. The U.S. Postal Service anticipates hand-delivering over 80 million additional EIPs over the next few months.

This unprecedented mail volume gives rise to opportunist mail thieves and criminals to steal EIPs.

“The COVID-19 pandemic has created unique challenges for the nation as well as unique opportunities for thieves,” warns D. Glen Henderson, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Fort Worth Division. “The criminal efforts targeting those in need are unconscionable. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is committed to protecting the mail, and we ask the public to immediately report any suspicious activity. We also want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their continued partnership as we pursue criminals who target the mail, the U.S. Postal Service, or its customers.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is working diligently to rout out criminals who engage in mail theft and fraud and refer them to the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The U.S. Postal Inspectors are prepared for a variety of schemes that criminals and thieves are employing to exploit the American public during this time of crisis. If you suspect mail theft, please report it to www.uspis.gov.

To underscore federal law enforcement’s commitment to pursue those who take advantage of the Coronavirus pandemic for gain, below are several COVID-19 related prosecutions in the Northern District of Texas:

• Court Prohibits Dallas Wellness Center from Touting ‘Ozone Therapy’ as COVID-19 Treatment
• U.S. Attorney’s Office Files Enforcement Action Against Chiropractor Promoting Fake COVID-19 Treatment

The Department of Justice remains vigilant in detecting, investigating, and prosecuting wrongdoing related to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Northern District of Texas has appointed Assistant U.S. Attorney Fabio Leonardi as the District’s Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator to work with federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to protect the public from scammers who are attempting to prey upon fears. If you think you are a victim of a scam or attempted fraud involving COVID-19, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via email at disaster@leo.gov.

For more information visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndtx/report-covid-19-fraud

United States Postal Service

To file a complaint regarding theft of Economic Impact Payments from the mail or COVID-19 fraud involving the U.S. Mail, please contact the U.S. Postal Inspection Service at: www.uspis.gov/report or 1-800-ASK-USPS.

Internal Revenue Service

Economic Impact Payment fraud can be reported directly to the IRS at: DallasFieldOffice@ci.irs.gov

For more information, visit the IRS website at www.irs.gov/coronavirus

CDC

For information on COVID-19 and the federal response visit: https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus

CHARGED – WILLIAM ADAM JONATHAN SMITH aka “Detroit”

On April 22, William Adam Jonathan Smith, 30, was charged by criminal complaint with conspiracy to engage in child sex trafficking. During an anti-human trafficking sting, agents encountered a juvenile female as well as an adult female, Charity Cantu, engage in prostitution. In a subsequent interview, Cantu admitted that at the direction of Smith she assisted grooming the minor into a commercial sex worker. Smith rented hotel rooms for commercial sex work with commercial sex clients and receive all the compensation that the minor made.

A criminal complaint is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence, and like all defendants, Smith is innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. Smith faces up to life in federal custody. This case was investigated by HSI, Texas Attorney General’s Office, and Denton Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Doug Allen.

SENTENCING – MCKINNLEY BRIAN HOBBS aka “Coach”

On April 17, McKinnley Hobbs, 39, was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Hobbs helped coordinate the delivery and distribution of cocaine to persons known and unknown throughout the Northern District of Texas. This case was investigated by the Dallas Police Department and the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Phelesa Guy.

SENTENCING – TROY ANYHONY PEEBLES

On April 22, Troy Anthony Peebles, 47, was sentenced via video teleconference to six months (time served) for impersonation of an officer or employee of the United States. Peebles admits that following a flight from Belize to the Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol officers conducted a routine screening, only to discover contraband in his luggage. Claiming to be a Special Agent with the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Services, Peebles flashed a faux badge and attempted to proceed through the checkpoint. Prosecutors revealed a subsequent search of Peebles’ phone revealed photos of him dressed in a “federal agent” jacket and fraternizing with state and local law enforcement officers. This case was investigated by the Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Dana.

SENTENCING – TARA TENISE JONES

On April 22, Tara Tenise Jones, 38, was sentenced to 15 months in federal custody for felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a firearm in a school zone. Previously convicted of a felony, Jones unlawfully possessed a .40 caliber Magnum Research Deseret Eagle. She admitted to carrying the firearm onto the grounds of Thompson Elementary school in Mesquite, Texas. This case was investigated by Mesquite Police Department and the ATF and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Boyle.

A man who threatened to assassinate the President has been sentenced to 18 months in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Mickael Gedlu, 36, pleaded guilty in December to making threats against the commander-in-chief.  Appearing from the Federal Correction Institution in Seagoville, Texas, he was sentenced today via video teleconference by Chief U.S. District Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn.

According to plea papers, Mr. Gedlu admitted he threatened the President’s life on social media, stating on YouTube: “I'm waiting for Trump to visit Dallas before I attempt to assassinate him.”

During court proceedings, prosecutors noted that on May 31, 2018, Mr. Gedlu was observed across the street from Dallas’ Adolphus Hotel, just 30 minutes before the President arrived there for a fundraiser.  Dallas police officers, who noticed Mr. Gedlu holding a “Kill Trump” sign, detained him as he screamed, “kill the President.”

Dallas police officers, who noticed Mr. Gedlu holding a “Kill Trump” sign, detained him as he screamed, “kill the President.”

The United States Secret Service conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Dallas and Richardson Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebekah Ricketts prosecuted the case.

A federal court entered a permanent injunction halting a purported “ozone therapy” center in Dallas from offering unproven treatments for COVID-19, U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox announced today.

In a civil case filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, the government alleged that the defendants, Purity Health & Wellness Centers and one of the firm’s principals, Jean Juanita Allen, fraudulently promoted so-called ozone therapy as a treatment for COVID-19. 

The defendants agreed to be bound by a permanent injunction barring them from representing that ozone could be used to treat or cure COVID-19. The order was entered Friday morning by U.S. District Judge Sam A. Lindsay.

“This defendant preyed on public fear, peddling bogus treatments that had absolutely no effect against COVID-19,” said U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.  “As we’ve said in past COVID-19 civil cases: The Department of Justice will not permit anyone to exploit a pandemic for personal gain.”

“The Department of Justice will not stand by and permit the fraudulent promotion of supposed COVID-19 treatments that do no good and that could be harmful,” said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Justice Department’s Civil Division.  “We are working with law enforcement and agency partners to stop those who attempt to profit by selling useless products during this pandemic.”

According to court filings, Ms. Allen told a caller posing as a potential customer that although ozone could be dangerous, Purity’s treatment was safe even for children, would sanitize anything, and would eradicate viral or bacterial infections.

The court filings alleged that Ms. Allen claimed Purity’s ozone treatments – which she asserted would increase oxygen in the blood, making it impossible for viruses to manifest – were 95 percent effective even for someone who had tested positive for COVID-19.  She claimed a team of “doctors” had recommended an “ozone steam sauna” for someone with COVID-19.

On Instagram, Purity Health & Wellness claimed ozone was the “only prevention” for COVID-19 and insisted the treatment could “eradicate” the virus.  The center also claimed ozone could combat other deadly diseases, including cancer, SARS, and Ebola.

“We will not allow anyone to illegally profit by exploiting the fear and anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno.  “The FBI and our partners are working together every day to prevent, detect, and dismantle COVID-19 fraud.”

“The FDA will continue to help ensure those who place profits above the public health during the COVID-19 pandemic are stopped,” said Stacy Amin, Food and Drug Administration Chief Counsel.  “We are fully committed to working with the Department of Justice to take appropriate action against those jeopardizing the health of Americans with unproven treatments.”

The enforcement action was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Patrick Runkle of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Coffin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Fabio Leonardi is the COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator for the Northern District of Texas.  The case was investigated by the FBI’s Dallas Field Office and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations.

The claims made in the complaint are allegations that the United States would have had to prove if the case had proceeded to trial.

For information about the Department of Justice’s efforts to stop illegal COVID-19-related activity, visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus or https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndtx/report-covid-19-fraud. 

 

A federal court entered a permanent injunction halting a purported “ozone therapy” center in Dallas, Texas, from offering unproven treatments for coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the Department of Justice announced today.

In a civil complaint and accompanying court papers filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas, the Department of Justice alleged that the defendants, Purity Health and Wellness Centers and one of the firm’s principals, Jean Juanita Allen, fraudulently promoted so-called ozone therapy as a treatment for COVID-19.  The defendants agreed to be bound by a permanent injunction barring them from representing that ozone could be used to treat or cure COVID-19. The order was entered by U.S. District Judge Sam A. Lindsay in Dallas.

“The Department of Justice will not stand by and permit the fraudulent promotion of supposed COVID-19 treatments that do no good and that could be harmful,” said Assistant Attorney General Jody Hunt of the Justice Department’s Civil Division.  “We are working with law enforcement and agency partners to stop those who attempt to profit by selling useless products during this pandemic.”

“This defendant preyed on public fear, peddling bogus treatments that had absolutely no effect against COVID-19,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox for the Northern District of Texas.  “As we’ve said in past COVID-19 civil cases: the Department of Justice will not permit anyone to exploit a pandemic for personal gain.” 

According to court filings, Allen told a caller posing as a potential customer that although ozone could be dangerous, Purity’s treatment was safe even for children, would sanitize anything, and would eradicate viral or bacterial infections.

The court filings alleged that Allen claimed Purity’s ozone treatments – which she asserted would increase oxygen in the blood, making it impossible for viruses to manifest – were 95 percent effective even for someone who had tested positive for COVID-19.  She claimed a team of “doctors” had recommended an “ozone steam sauna” for someone with COVID-19.

On Instagram, Purity Health & Wellness claimed ozone was the “only prevention” for COVID-19 and insisted the treatment could “eradicate” the virus.  The center also claimed ozone could combat other deadly diseases, including cancer, SARS, and Ebola.

“We will not allow anyone to illegally profit by exploiting the fear and anxiety related to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno.  “The FBI and our partners are working together every day to prevent, detect, and dismantle COVID-19 fraud.”

“The FDA will continue to help ensure those who place profits above the public health during the COVID-19 pandemic are stopped,” said Stacy Amin, Food and Drug Administration Chief Counsel.  “We are fully committed to working with the Department of Justice to take appropriate action against those jeopardizing the health of Americans with unproven treatments.”

The enforcement action was prosecuted by Trial Attorney Patrick Runkle of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Coffin of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Fabio Leonardi is the COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator for the Northern District of Texas.  The case was investigated by the FBI’s Dallas Field Office and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations.

The claims made in the complaint are allegations that the United States would have had to prove if the case had proceeded to trial.

Additional information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts may be found at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch.  For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, visit its website at www.justice.gov/usao-ndtx.  For information about the Department of Justice’s efforts to stop illegal COVID-19-related activity, visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.  For the most up-to-date information on COVID-19, consumers may visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and WHO websites.

The public is urged to report suspected fraud schemes related to COVID-19 (the Coronavirus) by calling the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) hotline (1-866-720-5721) or by e-mailing the NCDF at disaster@leo.gov.

A felon formerly on Texas’ 10 Most Wanted list has been sentenced to more than 21 years in federal prison on a federal firearms charge, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

“A convicted domestic violence, drug, and violent crime offender, this defendant should never have had his hands on a gun,” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. “This case sends a message to armed criminals: When you’re a three-time offender, unlawful possession can lead to decades behind bars.”

“Mr. Travis is a confirmed gang member with a history of drug, firearm and violent offenses spanning more than 20 years,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II. “My hope is the victims of his crimes find some solace his next 20 years will be spent behind bars.”

Terrol DeBaun Travis, 43, pleaded guilty in November 2019 to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Mr. Travis was sentenced Friday to 262 months in federal prison by Senior U.S. District Judge John H. McBryde. He received a sentence enhancement under the Armed Career Criminal Act, which raises the maximum penalty for offenders with three previous convictions for a violent felony or serious drug offense.

According to plea papers, law enforcement officers observed Mr. Travis carrying a Ruger 9 mm handgun when attempting to effect his arrest at his residence in Fort Worth in July 2019.

The defendant – who was a fugitive with outstanding warrants for violating his parole – dropped the gun on his doorstep while attempting to flee. Moments later, he was apprehended about 10 feet from his front door. Agents later determined the pistol, which was loaded with a high-capacity magazine, was stolen.

A known member of the Crips street gang, Mr. Travis was convicted in 1995 and 2004 of felony possession with intent to deliver cocaine; in 2004 of arson; in 2014 of felony domestic violence; and in 2014 of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in relation to a drug dispute.

“You seem to have an affinity for engaging in criminal conduct with a firearm,” Judge McBryde said at Friday’s sentencing hearing. “That is a disturbing fact because it shows a propensity for violence.”

The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives’ Dallas Field Division; the U.S. Marshals Fugitive Task Force; the Fort Worth Police Department’s Fugitive Unit, and the Texas Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Gatto and Levi Thomas prosecuted the case.

The prosecution was brought under Project Guardian, the Justice Department’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence using federal firearm laws. The case is also part of the U.S. Attorney’s Domestic Violence Initiative, a push to fight domestic violence using federal firearm laws, which prohibits convicted abusers from possessing guns.  

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas has obtained a temporary restraining order preventing a DFW chiropractor from touting sham treatments for COVID-19, announced U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox.

According to a civil complaint filed Thursday, Dr. Ray L. Nannis, the 48-year-old proprietor of Richardson-based Optimum Wellness Solutions, advertised his homeopathic sublinguals as both a “C-19 vaccine” and a “treatment, reducing severity and duration of symptoms, should you test positive.”

(As government officials have widely publicized, the U.S. Food & Drug Administration has not identified any immunizations, treatments, or cures for the novel coronavirus to date.)

The Court order, handed down Friday by U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle, prevents Dr. Nannis from promoting worthless and potentially dangerous treatments and requires him to immediately take down all misleading internet posts.

In videos posted to Optimum’s Facebook account, Dr. Nannis promoted and offered to sell homeopathy that supposedly provided “up to 90 percent protection” from COVID-19, according to court documents.

“It will help us avoid being sick or if you do get sick, it’s going to make it very, very, very minimal,” the chiropractor declared in a video posted on April 1.

In a call with a government agent, Dr. Nannis insisted that his homeopathy could provide protection from the novel coronavirus —“more so than any other vaccine out there right now” — and claimed the so-called treatments would also minimize symptoms associated with contracting COVID-19. Although he cautioned that he could not “technically” describe the homeopathy as a “cure” for coronavirus due to FDA restrictions, he nevertheless stated that it “basically” was “for all intents and purposes.”

Dr. Nannis, who is a licensed chiropractor but lacks a medical degree or medical license, offered to sell the homeopathy sublinguals to the government agent for $95 per dose.

Alleging Dr. Nannis was facilitating a “predatory” ongoing wire fraud scheme to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic, the government sought injunctive relief under the Anti-Fraud Injunction statute.

The enforcement action follows Attorney General William Barr’s recent memo to U.S. Attorneys nationwide to prioritize the detection, investigation, and prosecution of unlawful conduct related to the pandemic.

“As a community, we cannot and will not allow individuals to peddle false hope during this pandemic in order to line their own pockets,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “By promoting these unsubstantiated ‘treatments’ for COVID-19, this defendant substituted profits for the safety of the public.  We are gratified the Court acted quickly to put a stop to this egregious conduct.”

“The subject in this case abused his position of trust for his own personal benefit by preying on customers’ basic human condition, fear, by selling a fictitious COVID-19 remedy.  This case should serve as a strong deterrent for those considering taking part in similar fraud schemes,” said William Smarr, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service’s Dallas Field Office.  “The Secret Service, along with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas, and in partnership with our federal, state and local counterparts will continue to combat COVID-19 related fraud. As this pandemic evolves and federal funds are distributed to those suffering from economic losses, the Secret Service will continue to detect, investigate and arrest criminals who attempt to prey on vulnerable citizens and businesses.”

The U.S. Secret Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Robbins and Kenneth Coffin are handling the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Fabio Leonardi is the Coronavirus Fraud Coordinator for the Northern District of Texas.

Under the leadership of Attorney General Barr, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Texas remains vigilant in detecting wrongdoing related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and is committed to investigating and prosecuting scammers who attempt to prey upon the public’s fear. The Justice Department urges members of the public who think they may have encountered an attempted scam involving COVID-19 to contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) by phone at 1-866-720-5721 or via email at disaster@leo.gov.

For more information, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndtx/report-covid-19-fraud.

 

SENTENCING – CONSTANCE MARIE KELLY

On April 6, Constance Marie Kelly, 56, was sentenced via VTC to 46 months for conspiracy to commit wire fraud for her role in a $1.4 million real estate title insurance scheme. Kelly, a former employee of real estate title company American Title, admitted that she and codefendant Leonard James McMorris fraudulently transferred more than $1.4 million from American Title’s escrow accounts into bank accounts belonging to Mr. McMorris. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney David Jarvis.

GUILTY PLEA – SOLOMON EMAKOJI

On April 6, Solomon Emakoji, 35, pleaded guilty to engaging in monetary transactions in property derived unlawful activity. Emakoji and an associate operated a “romance scheme” to defraud and obtain money by false pretenses. They created fake profiles on popular social media platforms, online games or apps, and dating websites to lure lonely women and men into romantic relationships. The perpetrators then would begin requesting money from the victims. Emakoji received a total of $89,185. As part of the fraud, Emakoji conspired with money agents to receive funds from victims and send it overseas via wire transfer to Nigerian bank accounts. Emakoji faces up to 10 years in federal custody. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Nancy Larson.

SENTENCING – ALBERTO MENDOZA-ESPINOZA

On April 8, Alberto Mendoza-Espinoza, 39, was sentenced via VTC to 20 months for illegal reentry after removal from the United States. In March 2019, Mendoza-Espinoza, a non-U.S. citizen, was found living in the United States illegally. Previously, he had been deported and removed from the United States in April 2013. This case was investigated by Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donna Max.

GUILTY PLEA – CHANSELLOR ORMON HILL

On April 8, Chansellor Ormon Hill, 25, pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child. Hill entered the family restroom at the City of Grapevine’s Recreation Center. Inside the restroom, Hill induced a minor child to take sexually explicit photos. Using his  Apple iPhone, Hill produced images of the unclothed minor later found in his possession. Hill faces up to 30 years in federal custody. This case was investigated by the Grapevine Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aisha Saleem.

A Fort Worth middle school teacher has been charged with child exploitation after using a popular chat app to share child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Stephen Travis Corkill, an 35-year-old seventh grade teacher at Marine Creek Middle School in Fort Worth, was charged via criminal complaint with transporting a depiction of a minor engaged in sexually explicit conduct via interstate commerce.  He made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeffrey Cureton Wednesday morning.

According to charging documents, Mr. Corkill allegedly used Kik, a messaging app popular among teenagers, to share an explicit image of a young girl.

Kik automatically flagged the image as having a hash value associated with known child pornography, and, after verifying the image was indeed pornography, reported it to law enforcement.  Agents then subpoenaed the subscriber information for the IP address associated with the upload, and traced it back to Mr. Corkill.

A search of Mr. Corkill’s residence revealed an iPhone with Kik installed. Under questioning, Mr. Corkill allegedly acknowledged he was the sole owner of the Kik account, which he said he used to view child pornography.

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Like all defendants, Mr. Corkill is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Flower Mound Police Department, Fort Worth Police Department, and Cedar Hill Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Saleem is prosecuting the case.

A Dallas woman was sentenced via video teleconference to 46 months in federal prison for her role in a $1.4 million real estate title insurance scheme, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Hers was the first VTC sentencing hearing in federal court in Dallas since the COVID-19 pandemic broke out. 

Constance Marie Kelly, 56, pleaded guilty in November to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. She was sentenced Monday morning by Chief U.S. District Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn, who held the hearing via VTC.

“This defendant, who defrauded her employer out of more than a million dollars, was sentenced via video teleconference,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “We are gratified the Court is working with our office to ensure justice marches on, even amidst a pandemic.”

According to plea papers, Ms. Kelly, a former employee of real estate title company American Title, admitted that she and codefendant Leonard James McMorris fraudulently transferred more than $1.4 million from American Title’s escrow accounts into bank accounts belonging to Mr. McMorris.  Between 2002 and 2007, Ms. Kelly admitted, she initiated at least 51 wire transfers and wrote 11 checks to fraudulently disburse the money from an American Title account at Compass Bank in Alabama.

Mr. McMorris had previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and was sentenced in November 2016 to 30 months in federal prison.

The defendants are jointly and severally liable for more than $1.4 million in restitution.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Jarvis prosecuted the case.

 

The U.S. Department of Justice today announced that it is making $850 million available to help public safety agencies respond to the challenges posed by the outbreak of COVID-19.

The Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, authorized by the recent stimulus legislation signed by President Trump, will allow eligible state, local and tribal governments to apply immediately for these critical funds. The department is moving quickly to make awards, with the goal of having funds available for drawdown within days of the award.

“Now, more than ever, we’re grateful to the many law enforcement officers on the front lines of our fight against violent crime. The Department of Justice is proud to support the agencies keeping the peace during this pandemic,” said Erin Nealy Cox, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Texas. 

“This is an unprecedented moment in our nation’s history and an especially dangerous one for our front-line law enforcement officers, corrections officials, and public safety professionals,” said Office of Justice Programs Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Katharine T. Sullivan. “We are grateful to the Congress for making these resources available and for the show of support this program represents.”

The solicitation, posted by the Bureau of Justice Assistance in the Justice Department’s Office of Justice Programs (OJP), will remain open for at least 60 days and be extended as necessary. OJP will fund successful applicants as a top priority on a rolling basis as applications are received.

Funds may be used to hire personnel, pay overtime costs, cover protective equipment and supplies, address correctional inmates’ medical needs and defray expenses related to the distribution of resources to hard-hit areas, among other activities. Grant funds may be applied retroactively to Jan. 20, 2020, subject to federal supplanting rules.

Agencies that were eligible for the fiscal year 2019 State and Local Edward Byrne Memorial Justice Assistance Grant Program are candidates for this emergency funding. A complete list of eligible jurisdictions and their allocations can be found at https://bja.ojp.gov/program/fy20-cesf-allocations.

For more information about the Coronavirus Emergency Supplemental Funding program, please visit https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/opportunities/bja-2020-18553.

For more information about the U.S. Attorney’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, please visit: https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndtx/report-covid-19-fraud.

 

A Lubbock man has pleaded guilty to robbing Lubbock’s City Bank and Aim bank, announced U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox.

Matthew C. Courtney, 48, pleaded guilty to two counts of bank robbery by force, violence, or intimidation before U.S. Magistrate Judge D. Gordon Bryant, Jr. on March 25.

According to plea papers, on February 21, Courtney admits that he entered City Bank in Lubbock wearing sunglasses and a black jacket with a fur-lined hood covering his head. When asked by a teller to remove the hood, Courtney refused and handed the teller a withdraw slip with the word written – “robbery.” The City Bank teller surrendered money to Courtney and he exited though the North end of the bank.

Lubbock Police were able to obtain a latent fingerprint from the blue withdraw slip which matched Courtney.

On February 24, Courtney admits he entered Aim Bank in Lubbock and approached a teller station with paperwork, cardboard, and a black bag. Courtney wrote on the cardboard “you’re getting robbed.” The Aim Bank teller put money into Courtney’s black bag which was positioned on the bank counter. As he exited, Courtney grabbed two of the teller’s business cards.

According to court documents, Lubbock Police Department determined that Courtney was located at Lubbock’s Embassy Suites hotel. Courtney admits he paid for the hotel room in cash approximately an hour after the Aim Bank robbery. When Lubbock Police searched the Embassy Suites hotel room, they recovered two black jackets matching the description of both bank robberies, cash inside a black hair dryer bag, and the Aim Bank teller’s business card floating in the toilet.

Lubbock Police Department received information that Courtney had moved to Lubbock’s Hilton Garden Inn. When officers arrived, they spotted a grey passenger car sitting near the front entrance of the hotel with its lights on. Courtney was in the front passenger seat with his head down. He had four $100 bills sitting in his lap and another $225 in cash in his wallet.

Courtney is facing up to 40 years in federal prison, $500,000 fine, and two three-year terms of supervised release. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Lubbock Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeff Haag is prosecuting this case.

A Wichita Falls man who posted threats about killing Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives and other government leaders has been charged following an investigation by the FBI’s Dallas Field Office, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Gavin Weslee Blake Perry, 27, was charged via criminal complaint with transmitting a threatening communication in interstate commerce. He made his initial appearance before Magistrate Judge Hal R. Ray on Thursday.

According to the complaint, a concerned citizen notified the Wichita Falls Police Department that Mr. Perry allegedly posted threats on a Facebook account named “Gavinwbperry.”

“If youre a dem or apart of the establishment in the democrats side I view you as a criminal and a terrorist and I advise everyone to Go SOS [shoot on sight] and use live rounds,” he allegedly posted on March 23. “This is not gonna change until we attact NSA the DOJ the FBI and Any other agencies who want to get involved. Shoot to kill. This is a revolution.”

The Speaker “is apart of a satanic cult and so are the people who work closly with her. Dems of the establishment will be removed at any cost necessary and yes that means by death,” he allegedly posted later that same day.

When confronted by law enforcement at the time of his arrest, Mr. Perry admitted that the account belonged to him, and said he wanted to warn Americans to beware of the government, which he stated he believes to be “tyrannical.”

He then stated that the officers were violating his First Amendment right to free speech, a violation he felt was punishable by death. He also stated he intended to bond out of jail and planned to refuse to comply with any order to come to court. He said he does not recognize the authority of the federal government.

“The Department of Justice takes the security of our public servants seriously. Americans are entitled to voice their opinions – but we will not allow them to threaten our officials’ physical safety,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “This defendant’s threats against the Speaker and law enforcement agents are wholly inexcusable, and we look forward to bringing him to justice.”  

“The defendant threatened the life of an elected official and that will not be tolerated. The FBI and our law enforcement partners work hard every day to protect our citizens from harm,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. “Thank you to our partners at the Wichita Falls Police Department for assisting in this investigation. Thank you as well to the concerned citizen who reported the online threat. We ask that everyone continue to report suspicious activity to law enforcement.” 

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of wrongdoing, not evidence. Like all defendants, Mr. Perry is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

If convicted, he faces up to five years in federal prison.

The FBI Wichita Falls Resident Agency’s Safe Streets Taskforce and the Wichita Falls Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the U.S. Capitol Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rob Boudreau is prosecuting the case.  

 

GUILTY PLEA – TRACY MIRANDA

On March 16, Tracy Miranda, 19, plead guilty to aiding and abetting foreign travel in aid of racketeering. In 2019, a group of Mexican drug traffickers were importing methamphetamine in crystal and power form into the United States. One of the importers was Eduardo Ruiz-Mendoza. Ruiz-Mendoza directed Miranda to travel to McAllen to pick up methamphetamine which was concealed in audio speaker boxes after it was smuggled into the United States. Miranda picked up the speaker boxes which contained the methamphetamine then gave them to a DEA cooperating individual. Miranda faces up to five years in federal custody. This case was investigated by the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanna Etessam is prosecuting this case.

GULITY PLEA – JONATHAN KELLY SCOTT

On March 17, Jonathan Kelly Scott, 33, plead guilty to felon in possession of a firearm and possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance containing methamphetamine. During execution of a search warrant, Scott ran by foot from Dallas from the rear of the house where he was located through several neighbors’ yards. Scott was followed and filmed from above by Dallas Police helicopter until he was arrested. In the house, officers recovered numerous firearms, methamphetamine, phencyclidine, cocaine, heroin, and alprazolam. Prior to this arrest, Scott had been convicted of three felony drug crimes. Scott faces up to life in federal custody. The case was investigated by the ATF and the Dallas Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Boyle is prosecuting the case.

SENTENTENCING – PAUL AUSTIN JONES

On March 19, Paul Austin Jones, 39, was sentenced to 720 months in federal custody after pleading guilty to two counts of sexual exploitation of children. In October 2018, Jones contacted and offered to pay Rita Rose Everett, a local escort, for the opportunity to engage in sexual acts with her approximately and her eleven month old daughter. Jones met Everett in a Tarrant County hotel and used his cell phone to film sexually explicit conduct with Everett and the minor. In February 2019, Jones again created another sexually explicit video in which he filmed himself performing sex acts on a twenty-two month old toddler. This case was investigated by HSI and North Richland Hills Police Department. Assistant U.S. Aisha Saleem is prosecuting the case.

A Big Spring restauranteur has pleaded guilty to employing undocumented immigrants, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Voum Chhuon, 45, owner of Texas Cajun in Big Spring, Texas, pleaded guilty to harboring illegal aliens and unlawful employment of illegal aliens before U.S. Magistrate Judge John Parker on March 19.

According to plea papers, Chhuon admits he employed illegal labor for his personal financial gain.

Department of Homeland Security (HSI) received a tip from the Howard County Sherriff’s Office that Chhuon was employing illegal aliens at the Texas Cajun. After investigation, HSI agents learned that Chhuon that was paying individuals in his kitchen in cash while the waiters were paid by paycheck.

Officers with the Big Spring Police Department and the Howard County Sherriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop of two Texas Cajun cooks, Simon Hernandez-Bautitsta and Justino Antonio-Martinez. ICE officers determined that Antonio-Martinez and Hernandez-Bautitsta were in the United States illegally and subject for removal.

During interviews with Antonio-Martinez and Hernandez-Bautitsta, they stated that Chhuon knew they were in the United States illegally and not authorized to work. Both men were paid in cash once per week and lived with Chhuon in his residence in Big Spring.

While owning the Texas Cajun, Chhuon unlawfully hired Sergio Martinez-Martinez, Julio Esteban Perez-Florez, Jose Manuel Castillo-Hernandez, Sergio Ramiro Avila-Perez, Simon Hernandez Bautitsta, Justino Antonio Martinez, Lazaro Zepeda-Rocha, and Primitivo Hernandez-Amezquita without filling out any paperwork or requesting any documentation as to legality of residence in the United States or to work.

Once unlawfully hired, Chhuon would provide the illegal aliens room and board at his Big Spring residence and transportation to the Texas Cajun.

From March 2015 until his arrest, Chhuon made a total revenue of $2,985,631 for a monthly average of approximately $82,000 by operating the restaurant with illegal labor. HSI forensic accountants determined Chhuon transferred $137,801 from his Texas Cajun business account to pay off a personal mortgage on a residence located in Pearland, Texas.

Chhuon is facing up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 fine. Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen Rancourt is prosecuting the case.

GUILTY PLEA – ROMELIO RIVERON

On March 10, Romelio Riveron, 50, pled guilty to conspiracy to launder money and monetary instruments. Riveron purchased stolen jewelry, gold, and diamonds from individuals who were involved in four major robberies in Bedford, Texas, The Village, Oklahoma, Charlotte, North Carolina, and Houston, Texas. Riveron traveled to different locations around the United States to launder the stolen jewelry, gold, and diamonds. In sum, Riveron and his co-conspirators caused total losses of $2,561,112.41. Riveron faces 20 years in federal custody. This case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by AUSA Ryan Raybould.

GULITY PLEA – JUAN JESUS CERVANTES-DEL TORO

On March 10, Juan Jesus Cervantes-Del Toro, 47, pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Cervantes-Del Toro met a confidential informant at a Dallas area auto body shop and sold the informant one kilogram of methamphetamine. During his arrest, law enforcement found numerous baggies containing methamphetamine and cocaine. Cervantes-Del Toro faces 20 years in federal custody. This case was investigated by Texas Department of Public Safety and prosecuted by AUSA Linda Requenez.

SENTENCING – JOEL VILLEGAS-PATIN0

On March 11, Joel Villegas-Patio, 62, was sentenced to 188 months in federal custody for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Law enforcement used confidential sources to purchase heroin from Villegas-Patino on multiple occasions. When a search warrant was executed on his residence, Villegas-Patino had 4,893 grams of heroin in his possession. In the two month period that proceeded his arrest, Villegas-Patino had received a total of eight kilograms of heroin from his supply in Mexico. This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Agency and prosecuted by AUSA John Kull.

GUILTY PLEA – CHRISTOPER PAUL STOUT

On March 12, Christopher Paul Stout, 41, plead guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Stout sold 14 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential source at his place of residence in Dallas. Shortly thereafter, Stout again sold 500 pills of clandestinely produced oxycodone. He faces up to 20 years in federal custody. This case was investigated Drug Enforcement Agency and prosecuted by AUSA Rachel Jones.

Three firearm vendors who operated at DFW gun shows have pleaded guilty to unlicensed dealing, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox. None of the defendants were conducting background checks on their buyers.

Raleigh Merriam Selby III, 56, Jack Don Sims, 57, and James Cary Bennett, 79, each pleaded guilty to engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license before Magistrate Judge Irma C. Ramirez Thursday morning.

“Today, we’re taking aim at unlicensed dealers who allow guns to fall into dangerous hands,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “I’m proud to bring this case under Project Guardian, the Attorney General’s gun violence reduction initiative. Hopefully, these pleas send a message to would-be offenders: If you violate federal firearms laws, you will be held accountable for the guns you’ve illegally injected into our communities.”

“Engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license circumvents regulations designed to identify prohibitors such as felony offenses, dishonorable discharge from military service or substance abuse," stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II.  “The firearms transfers made by Mr. Bennett, Mr. Selby and Mr. Sims undermine community safety and hinder the investigation of firearms recovered at crime scenes.”

Federal law requires that dealers engaged in the business of dealing firearms – defined as repeatedly devoting time and attention to purchasing and reselling guns for monetary gain – obtain Federal Firearms Licenses and run background checks on potential buyers.  (Hobbyists who sell weapons in one-off private transactions are not required to be licensed or to run background checks.)

According to plea papers, Mr. Bennett, Mr. Selby, and Mr. Sims were caught engaging in the business of selling firearms without a license during an undercover investigation at several Dallas-area gun shows, including Big Town in Mesquite, Will Rogers Coliseum in Fort Worth, and Market Hall in Dallas.

None of them entered potential buyers into the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, NICS.

The defendants admit that many of the guns they sold ended up in the hands of prohibited persons, including a man convicted of drug dealing and another convicted of willful cruelty to a child. Others were recovered at crime scenes, from California to Florida to Mexico.

Both Mr. Bennett and Mr. Sims admit they explicitly promoted that sales at their booths involved “no paperwork” – in other words, no background check. Mr. Bennett even admits that he dealt in .380 caliber pistols, “preferred firearms for trafficking to Mexico.”

Each defendant now faces up to five years in federal prison.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian McKay and Damien Diggs are prosecuting the cases, brought under Project Guardian, the Justice Department's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.

GUILTY PLEA – DARIFAH DAVIS

On March 3, Darifah Davis, 36, pled guilty to theft of government funds. For nearly three years, Davis filed for and was awarded disability insurance benefits. She falsely claimed to not be working during this time, and as a result, received over $51,000 in Disability Insurance Benefits that were not due to her. She faces up to a year in federal custody. This case was investigated by Social Security Administration and is prosecuted by AUSA Danielle Jones.

GUILTY PLEA – CHARLES AUBREY HURT

On March 3, Charles Aubrey Hurt, 63, pled guilty to felon in possession of a firearm. He was previously imprisoned for 3 years for possession of methamphetamine and 7 years for unauthorized use of a motor vehicle. He admits to distributing over 500 grams of methamphetamine in late 2019. Law enforcement searched his residence and found methamphetamine, heroin, and a firearm.  Hurt agreed to the forfeiture of 7 firearms that were in his possession. He faces up to 10 years in federal custody. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms and the Texas Department of Public Safety and is prosecuted by AUSA George Leal.

SENTENCING - CARLOS HUMBERTO MATAMOROS VASQUEZ

On March 2, Carlos Humberto Matamoros Vasquez, 24, was sentenced to 5 years in federal custody for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana. Vasquez admitted to distributing marijuana from Bubba’s Beer, Smoke, Wine and Glasswerks. Law enforcement seized 33 pounds of marijuana and over $468,000 from the residence that he shared with his coconspirator. This case was investigated by Drug Enforcement Administration and the Mesquite Police Department and is prosecuted by AUSA George Leal. 

GUILTY PLEA – ALEXANDER WALDVOGEL

On March 5, Alexander Waldvogel, 39, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Waldvogel’s coconspirators purchased a marijuana dispensary in California and illegally shipped marijuana to Texas further illegal distribution. Waldvogel received marijuana shipments for further distribution. During one stage of the criminal operation, Waldvogel possessed approximately 108 kilograms of marijuana or marijuana derived products in his apartment. Waldvogel faces up to 5 years in federal custody for the offense. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by AUSA Chad Meacham.

SENTENCING – JOSHUA BLAKE BROWNING

On March 5, Joshua Blake Browning, 38, was sentenced to 3 months for escaping from custody and possessing contraband in prison. Browning escaped a federal prison camp where he was serving time for the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Additionally, while serving his time in prison, Browning illegally possessed a mobile device. The case was investigated by the United States Marshall Service and is prosecuted by AUSA Suzanna Etessam. 

SENTENCING – KYLE DANIEL PEARCY

On March 2, Kyle Daniel Pearcy, 26, was sentenced to 10 months in federal custody for aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft. Pearcy knowingly aimed a laser pointer at a helicopter operated by the Dallas Police Department after midnight in August 2019. He aimed the laser pointer five times for short bursts totaling 13 seconds, causing crew members to squint their eyes to protect their vision. The case record labeled this case as a “knuckleheaded act of stupidity.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and is prosecuted by AUSA John de la Garza.

The former Acting Police Chief of Olney, Texas was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for threatening an individual at gunpoint, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Former Acting Chief Robert Michael Cross, 35, pleaded guilty in October to deprivation of rights under color of law following an investigation by the FBI’s Dallas Field Office.

“The city of Olney deserves police officers with respect for the rule of law,” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. “Instead, this defendant abused his power, stripping citizens of their dignity for his own perverse ends. We are gratified he has been held to account for his despicable behavior.” 

“Law enforcement officers are responsible for upholding the law and protecting their communities from harm. The defendant used his position of authority to prey on vulnerable individuals and exploit them for his personal gain,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. “The FBI is committed to preserving trust in law enforcement. We will criminally pursue any officer that violates the law and abuses their oath to protect and serve.”

In plea papers and in other information provided in court, Mr. Cross admitted that shortly after arresting two individuals for aggravated robbery offenses, he coerced them into engaging in conduct for his own personal benefit, promising to have the criminal cases against them dismissed if they complied with his demands.

About a month after the arrest, on Dec. 20, 2017, he took them out in his vehicle to eat dinner and catch a movie. That evening, he brandished a pistol, threatening one victim with bodily injury and coercing the victim to engage in sex acts with another individual, thereby willfully depriving the victim of the Constitutional right to be free from unreasonable force by a law enforcement officer.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office and the Texas Rangers conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Boudreau is prosecuting the case. U.S. District Judge Reed C. O’Connor handed down the sentence.

An Afghani woman has been found guilty of repeatedly lying to immigration officials in order to obtain U.S. citizenship, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Following a four day trial, a federal jury convicted Lilla Haiddar, 57, of two counts of false statement in applications for a passport and one count of unlawful procurement of naturalization.

According to evidence presented at trial, in May 2001, Ms. Haiddar –  who was then using the name “Marufa Khashim Surgul” and a different date of birth  – visited the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan and obtained a transit visa for herself and her two minor children that allowed them travel through New York City en route to Canada. 

However, on June 3, 2001, Ms. Haiddar, still using the Surgul identity, landed in New York and stayed, never boarding the outbound flight to Canada as scheduled.   

Two months later, in August 2001, Ms. Haiddar applied for asylum at the then Immigration and Naturalization Services (“INS”) asylum office in New York City. 

From that day forward, Ms. Haiddar used the Haiddar identity and date of birth to obtain asylum from an Immigration Judge, to obtain lawful permanent resident status from United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (“USCIS”), and then ultimately United States citizenship from USCIS in October 2011.  

During this ten year process, Ms. Haiddar, who would go on to become an employee of Prospect Airport Services at DFW International, never disclosed her Surgul identity, never disclosed she had received a transit visa to enter the U.S., and instead claimed she entered the U.S. by walking across the Texas/Mexico border.  

Five days after being naturalized as a U.S. citizen, Ms. Haiddar, still using the Haiddar identity and date of birth, applied for and obtained a U.S. passport.  In the passport application, Ms. Haiddar failed to disclose her Surgul identity. 

The U.S. Department of  State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) uncovered the Surgul identity when the defendant sought to renew her passport three years early. (It was full due to her numerous trips to the Middle East and surrounding countries.) They also uncovered the fact that she’d originally traveled into the United States on the transit visa, but never left. 

Ms. Haddair faces up to 30 years in prison and a fine of up to $750,000. Sentencing is set for July 6, 2020 before U.S. District Judge Barbara M.G. Lynn.  Ms. Haiddar has been ordered detained pending sentencing.  

DSS conducted the criminal investigation.  United States Citizenship and Immigration Service and Immigration and Customs Enforcement with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security assisted.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tiffany H. Eggers and Erica Hilliard are prosecuting the case.

Thirty-three individuals in the Dimmit, Texas area have been charged with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and other drug crimes, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Nineteen of the defendants were arrested on Thursday, March 5 during a large-scale takedown coordinated by the FBI’s Dallas Field Office. Four defendants remain fugitives. Ten defendants were already in law enforcement custody on state charges. 

A 38-count federal indictment, filed February 27, was unsealed today.  

In addition to the drug charges, six defendants were charged with gun crimes, including possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm, and felon in possession of a firearm.

“Methamphetamine is a highly addictive drug that ravages communities. We will do everything we can to keep those peddling meth off our streets,” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox.

“The FBI remains committed to working with our partners to protect our communities from the scourge of methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs,” said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. “In this case, we worked closely with the Castro County Sheriff’s Office, Hereford Police Department, Texas Department of Public Safety, and other law enforcement agencies over the course of several months in order to gather the evidence presented in this indictment.”

Those charged include:

•             Jesus Manuel Garcia, aka “Don Chuy,” 58

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Noel Mandujano, aka “Noe” and “Oregon,” 48

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Robert Vera, 48

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Gustavo Rincon, aka “Tavo,” 43

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Ricky Dale Leavitt, aka “Big Rick,” 45

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Michael Diaz, aka “Mike,” 45

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Michael Reyes, aka “Rat,” 42

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Arturo Martinez, aka “Juan,” 41

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Steven Mendez, 36

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Johnny Gilbert Lopez, aka “Cannon,” 52

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Katrina Casas, 34

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Ricardo Reyes, Jr., aka “Little Ricky,” 32 

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Roxanne Casas, 37

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine

•             Cruz Nunez, aka “Cruz Mendez,” 56

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Priscilla Kay Caballero, 35

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine

•             Susan Odette Stinnett, 32

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm (Ruger 9mm pistol)

•             Denita Mirelez, aka “Denita Mireles,” 45

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             John David Ramirez, 40

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Ricardo Chavez, aka “KK,” 39

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

•             Serviano Riojas, aka “Smokey,” 39

Charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine

An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

If convicted, the defendants face maximum sentences of up to 40 years, or life in some instances, in federal prison for the drug-related offenses, and up to 10 years for the firearm possession charges.

The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office; the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Dallas Field Division; the U.S. Marshals Service; Homeland Security Investigations; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives’ Dallas Field Division; ICE – Enforcement & Removal Operations; Castro County Sheriff's Office; Hereford Police Department; Texas Department of Safety; Amarillo Police Department; Dimmitt Police Department; Randall County Sheriff's Office; Lubbock Police Department; Potter County Sheriff's Office; Lubbock County Sheriff's Office; and the Plainview Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Long is prosecuting the case. 

This case was brought by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, an interagency partnership dedicated to reducing the supply of illegal narcotics in the United States and combating violence associated with the drug trade.

Two former executives of EarthWater Limited (EarthWater), a Dallas-based company, were charged in a superseding indictment with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud and obstruction of justice.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox of the Northern District of Texas and Inspector in Charge Delany DeLeon-Colón of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s (USPIS) Criminal Investigations Group in Washington, D.C., made the announcement.

Beth Ellen DeGroot, 60, and Harley E. “Buddy” Barnes III, 61, both of Plano, Texas, were charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud and one count of obstruction.    

Barnes and nine other individuals had been previously indicted by a Dallas grand jury for their alleged roles in a high-yield investment fraud scheme involving EarthWater.  To induce victims to purchase EarthWater stock, the defendants allegedly falsely promised victims the opportunity to earn a high-rate of return in a short period of time by offering them stock at a low price on what they falsely claimed was the eve of EarthWater’s initial public offering (IPO).  In truth, EarthWater had no ability or actual plans to go public. 

The defendants also allegedly lied to victims about how their money would be used, telling victims that nearly all of their money would be reinvested in EarthWater’s business (including to launch the IPO).  In truth, the defendants allegedly stole most of the victims’ money and treated EarthWater’s accounts like their own personal piggybank.  Barnes and his co-conspirators allegedly targeted elderly victims, defrauding them of millions of dollars.  A trial date is currently scheduled for March 30, 2020.   

The superseding indictment alleges that, following Barnes’ arrest for the alleged EarthWater fraud, DeGroot, who was EarthWater’s vice president, partnered with Barnes, who was EarthWater’s chief financial officer, to continue to use EarthWater to raise money, including by selling stock.  In addition, Barnes and DeGroot conspired to use EarthWater to fraudulently obtain large paychecks from EarthWater’s payroll processor and to fraudulently obtain a substantial mortgage from an FDIC-insured financial institution.  Specifically, Barnes and DeGroot allegedly misrepresented that EarthWater continued to operate and employ them as its top executives when, in reality, EarthWater had shut down and they were unemployed.

The superseding indictment further alleges that, after Barnes was arrested in connection with the EarthWater fraud, Barnes and DeGroot attempted to hide Barnes’s assets to prevent his money from being subject to forfeiture and fine in the event he were to be convicted. 

The superseding indictment includes two counts of obstruction for which DeGroot was originally charged in October 2019.  Among other things, DeGroot was charged with providing falsified records to a Dallas-based grand jury in order to conceal evidence relating to the conspiracy described above.

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

USPIS investigated the case.  Trial Attorneys Christopher Fenton and Amanda R. Vaughn of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary F. Walters of the Northern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

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

A local drug dealer convicted of killing a Dallas teenager was sentenced to life in federal prison Tuesday evening following an investigation by the FBI’s Dallas Violent Gangs Safe Streets Task Force, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

In November, following a four-day trial, a federal jury found Freddie Gilbert, 36, guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm, possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, discharging a firearm during a drug trafficking crime, and murder resulting from the use of a firearm in during a drug trafficking crime.

“Far too often, drug trafficking spurs horrific acts of violence,” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. “In this case, a known cocaine dealer legally barred from possessing a weapon gunned down an innocent 19-year-old, then shoved her in the trunk like a piece of trash. He will spend the rest of his life behind bars.”  

"Today's sentence should send a message to other violent drug dealers," said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. "The FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to protect the community through aggressive investigation and prosecution of violent offenders and drug traffickers.

According to evidence presented at trial, Mr. Gilbert, an avowed cocaine dealer, shot and killed 19-year-old Jacquisha Isaac on Oct. 29, 2017.

Forensic evidence showed that Mr. Gilbert shot Ms. Isaac through the head while she was sitting in the passenger seat of his car.  He likely fired the fatal shot through the window, while standing outside the vehicle, then stashed her body in the trunk and took off, prosecutors said. Hours later, Mr. Gilbert was apprehended driving more than 110 mph down I-20.  

Investigators identified Ms. Isaac’s blood inside the car, as well as on the clothing Mr. Gilbert was wearing when he was apprehended and on the revolver he used to kill the young girl. They also discovered a bullet he had purchased the day before covered in Ms. Isaac’s blood on the floorboard, gun residue on Mr. Gilbert’s hands, and his palm print on the trunk of the car where he’d stashed her body.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office, the Texas Department of Public Safety, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Kaufman County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys P.J. Meitl and Tiffany Eggers prosecuted the case. U.S. District Judge Jane Boyle handed down the sentence.

SENTENCING - SHERMAN LAKEITH ROSS

On February 24, Sherman Lakeith Ross, 45, was sentenced to 11 years and 5 months for possession with the intent to distribute heroin and aiding and abetting. Ross and his coconspirators used cell phones to communicate about their drug enterprise, and these communications were intercepted by the police. Law enforcement seized the drugs distributed from multiple customers, and after confirming that it was heroin, arrested Ross while he was in his probation officer’s office. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by AUSA John Kull.

SENTENCING – NEFTALI ABONZA

On February 26, Neftali Abonza, 30, was sentenced to 4 years and 2 months for conspiracy to commit money laundering. Abonza and his codefendants were involved in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in both Texas and Florida. The coconspirators would smuggle cash in bulk and use bank funnel accounts to profit from the proceeds. Abonza was arrested when attempting to deliver two kilograms of methamphetamine. He faces up to 20 years in federal custody. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and was prosecuted by AUSA Myra Boehm.

SENTENCING – HELEN KIM

On March 2, Helen Kim, 59, was sentenced to 3 years and 10 months in federal prison for racketeering. Kim was apprehended by law enforcement in November, after a sting operation at a Dallas hotel liberated a number of foreign-born commercial sex workers. She agreed to accept over $40,000 in exchange for providing illicit sex services to a group of out of town “businessmen” partying at a local hotel. These “businessmen” were actually undercover law enforcement officers. Kim admitted that she employed more than 10 commercial sex workers, many of whom lived at the brothels to to cater to customers at all times of the day and night. This case was investigated by the Dallas Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and Homeland Security Investigations and is prosecuted by AUSA Ryan Raybould and AUSA Cara Foos Pierce. Click here to learn more about this case.

Brothel owner Helen Kim was sentenced yesterday evening to 46 months in federal prison on a racketeering charge, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Ms. Kim, 59, was apprehended by law enforcement in November, after a sting operation at a Dallas hotel liberated a number of foreign-born commercial sex workers.  

She pleaded guilty in August to one count of use of a facility of interstate commerce in aid of a racketeering enterprise involving prostitution.  

“I am proud that our law enforcement partners poured significant resources into this sting operation in order to liberate the numerous women that Ms. Kim sold for sex,” U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox said following Ms. Kim’s guilty plea last fall. “We were determined to hold her accountable for her willingness to demean other women for financial gain.”  

In plea papers, Ms. Kim – the owner of brothels “Pink One” and “Illusion Spa” – admitted that she agreed to take more than $40,000 in exchange for providing illicit sex services to a group of out of town “businessmen” partying at a local hotel.

Those “businessmen” were in fact undercover law enforcement. More than 50 officers from the Dallas Police Department, the Texas Department of Public Safety, and Homeland Security Investigations participated in the undercover operation, which involved agents posing as businessmen posted at the hotel bar and in rooms upstairs.

According to an indictment returned in November, Ms. Kim and her 36-year-old son had previously negotiated the businessmen’s private sexual liaisons with 20 to 25 women at a rate of $2,000 each, for a total of at least $40,000. The pair promised the “girlfriend experience,” and even allowed an undercover detective to meet several of the women at a local Sushi bar.

“The way this is set up,” her son allegedly told the undercover officer, “it could be considered human trafficking.”

In her plea papers, Ms. Kim admitted that she employed more than 10 commercial sex workers at her two brothels. Many of the women lived at the establishments, in order to cater to customers at all times of the day and night, she acknowledged.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Raybould and Cara Foos Pierce are prosecuting the case.

GUILTY PLEA – CHRISTOPHER JO STRINGER

On February 20, Christopher Jo Stringer, 41, pled guilty to convicted felon in possession of a firearm, possession with the intent to distribute, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Stringer told to stop by police, who had been warned that a man was firing a gun at a vehicle. In response, Stringer raised his hands and pointed a pistol at his head for several seconds. He dropped the gun after being told to do so and was arrested without incident. The officers found methamphetamine on his person, and learned that Stringer had previously been convicted of felony burglary. He faces up to 16 years and 5 months in federal custody. This case was investigated by the Dallas Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and prosecuted by AUSA Danielle Jones.

SENTENCINGS – FELIX GIOVANNI RUIZ MENDOZA AND GUSTAVO RUIZ MENDOZA

On February 20, Felix Giovanni Ruiz Mendoza, 27, and Gustavo Ruiz Mendoza, 24, were sentenced to 18 and 19 years respectively for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.  Law enforcement officers searched two residences in Balch Springs. One of these homes were used as a methamphetamine lab to convert methamphetamine to a crystalline form. The brothers admitted to distributing the methamphetamine in the Dallas are for two months and sending proceeds to Mexico. Officers seized nearly $13,000 and three firearms from the residences. These cases were investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office, the Dallas Police Department, Balch Springs Police Department, and IRS - Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by AUSA George Leal. To learn more about this case, click here.

SENTENCING – ROBERT LUCAS POTEET

On February 25, Robert Lucas Poteet, 30, was sentenced to a year and 6 months in federal custody for aiding in preparation and presentation of a false and fraudulent return. Poteet received tax paperwork from a coconspirator. Poteet reported a business loss of over $15,000, despite the coconspirator never saying that he owned a business. Poteet knew this was fraudulent, but nevertheless he submitted this return. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by AUSA Douglas Allen.

A husband and wife from Big Spring, Texas, were sentenced today to a combined 140 years in prison for crimes against multiple children. 

U.S Attorney Erin Nealy Cox of the Northern District of Texas and Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division made the announcement. Homeland Security Investigations was the lead investigative agency.

Christopher James Regan, 38, a former shipping logistics manager, was sentenced to 90 years in prison after pleading guilty in October 2019 to conspiracy to produce child pornography and two counts of producing child pornography.  Tanya Marie Regan, 35, was sentenced to 50 years in prison after her October 2019 guilty plea to conspiracy to produce child pornography and possession of prepubescent child pornography.  The sentences, which were imposed by U.S. District Judge Mark T. Pittman of the Northern District of Texas, also included lifetime terms of supervised release for both defendants.

According to court documents, Christopher and Tanya Regan sexually abused and produced child pornography of multiple children, and they possessed and distributed child pornography to one another as well.  The Regans also engaged in graphic discussions about the sexual abuse of children over several online platforms. 

“These heinous crimes were conducted by sexual predators who posed a serious danger to children,” said United States Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “I commend the swift and dedicated work of law enforcement, and am glad we were able to serve justice for the victims.” 

“This is one of the most despicable cases of child exploitation and abuses of trust I have seen in my law-enforcement career,” said Ryan L. Spradlin, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Dallas. “Even the most hardened criminal would likely take exception to this kind of heinous behavior. No sentence is long enough for these two individuals, and it sends a clear message to others who sexually exploit vulnerable children: We will come after you and hold you accountable for your reprehensible actions.”

In plea papers, the pair admitted that at Christopher Regan’s direction, Tanya Regan repeatedly videotaped herself sexually abusing children for Christopher Regan’s sexual gratification.

When law enforcement seized electronics from the home, several graphic videos had been deleted, but were still stored in the recycle bin or on unalloted space on various SD cards. Undeleted videos were stored in a computer folder titled “users\tanya_000\pictures\privatevids\minor.”

HSI’s office in San Angelo, Texas, the Howard County Sheriff’s Office and the High Technology Investigative Unit within the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) investigated the case.  Substantial assistance was provide by the HSI offices in Lubbock and Tyler, Texas, Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the National Center for Mission and Exploited Children.  Trial Attorney Kyle P. Reynolds of CEOS and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ann Howey and Jeffrey R. Haag prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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

###

A husband and wife from Big Spring, Texas, were sentenced today to a combined 140 years in prison for crimes against multiple children. 

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S Attorney Erin Nealy Cox of the Northern District of Texas and Special Agent in Charge Ryan L. Spradlin of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) made the announcement.

Christopher James Regan, 38, a former shipping logistics manager, was sentenced to 90 years in prison after pleading guilty in October 2019 to conspiracy to produce child pornography and two counts of producing child pornography.  Tanya Marie Regan, 35, was sentenced to 50 years in prison after her October 2019 guilty plea to conspiracy to produce child pornography and possession of prepubescent child pornography.  The sentences, which were imposed by U.S. District Judge Mark T. Pittman of the Northern District of Texas, also included lifetime terms of supervised release for both defendants.

According to court documents, Christopher and Tanya Regan sexually abused and produced child pornography of multiple children, and they possessed and distributed child pornography to one another as well.  The Regans also engaged in graphic discussions about the sexual abuse of children over several online platforms. 

In plea papers, the pair admitted that at Christopher Regan’s direction, Tanya Regan repeatedly videotaped herself sexually abusing children for Christopher Regan’s sexual gratification.

When law enforcement seized electronics from the home, several graphic videos had been deleted, but were still stored in the recycle bin or on unallotted space on various SD cards. Undeleted videos were stored in a computer folder titled “users\tanya_000\pictures\privatevids\minor.”

HSI’s San Angelo, Texas, office, the Howard County Sheriff’s Office and the High Technology Investigative Unit within the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) investigated the case.  Substantial assistance was provide by the HSI offices in Lubbock and Tyler, Texas, Tom Green County Sheriff’s Office, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the National Center for Mission and Exploited Children.  Trial Attorney Kyle P. Reynolds of CEOS and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ann Howey and Jeffrey R. Haag prosecuted the case along with former Assistant U.S. Attorney Russell H. Lorfing.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

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

Two drug traffickers from Michoacán, Mexico were sentenced to a combined 37 years in federal prison today after prosecutors admitted into evidence a song glorifying their criminal lifestyle, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Felix Giovanni Ruiz Mendoza, 27, pleaded guilty in November 2018 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Sam A. Lindsay to 18 years imprisonment. His younger brother, coconspirator Gustavo Ruiz Mendoza, 24, pleaded guilty in January 2019 to the same charge and was sentenced today to 19 years imprisonment.

The brothers, who were in the United States illegally at the time of their arrests, were found in control of more than 90 kilograms of meth with a wholesale value of approximately $500,000 in June 2018.

In plea papers, the Ruiz Mendozas admitted they conspired to prepare and deal drugs out of two residences in Balch Springs, Texas. The elder brother admits that he used one property as a “methamphetamine conversion lab” and the other as a meth distribution house, and that some of the money he made from dealing was sent to Mexico to cover importation fees.

At the sentencing hearing today, prosecutors played a narco corrido, a narrative ballad used by the cartels to glorify their violent criminal lifestyle.  The song, Guiovani Ruiz (listen here), is written from the perspective of the elder Mr. Ruiz Menodza, and details the law enforcement raid of his meth house and ensuing imprisonment: “The FBI, SWAT, police and other government dogs fell upon me,” the song says in Spanish. “I will pay them for my crime.”

Experts at the sentencing testified that the band – which is not accused of criminal activity – likely had to get permission from the at least one of the cartels in control of the area around Michoacán in order to write and perform the piece, which the drug traffickers used as propaganda glamorizing their way of life. (Cartel control of Michoacán has shifted back and forth over the years between La Familia Michoacán, Los Caballeros Templarios, Los Viagras, and Cartel Nueva Generación de Jalisco, or CJNG.)

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office, the Dallas Police Department, Balch Springs Police Department, and IRS - Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Leal prosecuted both cases.

The cases are part of an Organized Crime Drug Task Force (OCDETF) investigation.  The OCDETF program was established in 1982 to attack and reduce the supply of illegal drugs entering the United States and to diminish violence and other criminal activity associated with the drug trade.  The OCDETF program works with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to identify, disrupt, and dismantle, drug traffickers and drug trafficking networks.

###

 

GUILTY PLEA – ROBERT ELMER KERR

On February 4, Robert Elmer Kerr, 49, pled guilty to receipt of child pornography. A Special Agent was able to locate the received files at an IP address in Irving. When local law enforcement conducted the warranted search, they found Kerr with a powered-on laptop that had recently accessed child pornography. Kerr faces up to 20 years for his crimes. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Irving Police Department and prosecuted by AUSA Camille Sparks.

SENTENCING – OMAR HAMMOOD

On February 10, Omar Hammood, 38, was sentenced to 3 years and 9 months in federal custody and $330,000+ in restitution for the crime of preparing false tax returns. Hammood prepared and presented a false Income Tax Return on behalf of another person. In fact, Hammood made a business of submitting false tax returns and concealed the receipts of this business from the IRS. Additionally, Hammood booked a trip to the Middle East after being indicted and hearing his conditions for pre-trial release, in violation of the Court’s order. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service and prosecuted by AUSA Ryan Raybould.

GUILTY PLEA – OMA MICHEL UNGU

On February 12, Oma Michel Ungu, 61, pled guilty to preparation of false tax returns. Ungu owned and operated an income tax preparation business known as Super Professional Tax Service.  He faces up to 5 years in federal custody. The tax return prepared by Ungu on behalf of his coconspirator falsely claimed unreimbursed business expenses for 23,000 miles. Ungu was aware that the mileage claimed was false and fraudulent, nevertheless he willfully included this statement on the return to decrease his coconspirator’s tax liability. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation and prosecuted by AUSA Douglas Allen.

GUILTY PLEA - LONG VO

On February 11, Long Vo, 41, pled guilty to conspiracy to use a facility of interstate commerce in aid of a racketeering enterprise. Vo oversaw the operation of Relax2013, a studio that was maintained to provide commercial sex to men. He posted online advertisements, scheduled appointments, ensured both customers and workers were not law enforcement, and collected $1 million in cash these enterprises. Vo additionally “tested out” these sex workers before hiring. He faces up to 5 years in federal custody for his crimes. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Department of Public Safety, and the Office of the Attorney General of Texas and prosecuted by AUSA Ryan Raybould.   

SENTENCING – ALEJANDRO PIERDO-BUSTOS

On February 10, Alejandro Pierda-Bustos, 44, was sentenced to 22 years and 4 months in federal custody for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Piedra-Bustos was found to have distributed and received methamphetamine. He ensured the coconspirators paid for their requested drugs in a timely manner. On one occasion, law enforcement officers stopped his coconspirator shortly after receiving two kilograms of methamphetamine from Piedra-Bustos and found the drugs under the driver’s seat. Law enforcement also intercepted a courier who had crossed the US-Mexico border with the intention of delivering 60+ kilograms of methamphetamine to Piedra-Bustos in Dallas. This case was investigated by Group One of the North Texas Strike Force and prosecuted by AUSA John Kull.

SENTENCING – CESAR NOEL RUBI-ROJAS

On February 10, Cesar Noel Rubi-Rojas, 31, was sentencing to 17 years and 5 months in federal custody for intent to distribute methamphetamine. Intercepted calls revealed that Rubi-Rojas was planning to purchase more drugs from a coconspirator. After completing the drug deal, police officers stopped the Expedition that Rubi-Rojas was driving and seized two kilograms of methamphetamine, two firearms, and $3,700+ in drug proceeds. Rubi-Rojas admitted to frequently acting as a driver in these situations. This case was investigated by Group One of the North Texas Strike Force and prosecuted by AUSA John Kull.

Sixty-four individuals with ties to various white supremacist gangs have been convicted and sentenced to a combined 820 years in federal prison following an investigation led by the Texas Department of Public Safety, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

This marks the second round of sentencings in what is believed to be the nation’s largest prosecution of white supremacist gang affiliates. In the first round, announced in August 2017, 89 defendants were convicted and sentenced to a combined 1,070 years in federal prison.

The 64th and final defendant in this round, 51-year-old Garry Cody Jones, was sentenced Thursday by U.S. District Judge Sidney A. Fitzwater to more than 11 years’ imprisonment on a charge of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.

All together, this round’s defendants – members or affiliates of white supremacists gangs including Aryan Circle, Aryan Brotherhood, the Peckerwoods, Soldiers of Aryan Culture, and the Dirty White Boys – were sentenced for trafficking more than 1,600 kilos of meth, 59 firearms, and various other drugs, including cocaine and heroin, between 2015 and 2018, according to court records.

Several of the defendants, including Ralph Adams, aka “Evil,” and Jerry Lunsford, aka “Looney,” kidnapped, threatened, and assaulted individuals they believed had stolen their drug proceeds.  One defendant, Justin Mark Nelson, aka “Nazi,” even admitted to using a hatchet to amputate a victim’s finger in retribution for a purported drug debt. Another defendant, Joshua Lane, who sports a large tattoo of Adolf Hitler on his head, attempted to run over officers during his arrest. 

“Not only do white supremacist gangs endorse repugnant ideologies, they also facilitate a violent drug and gun trade, putting our citizens in grave danger,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “We were alarmed – but not necessarily surprised – at the quantities of drugs and firearms recovered during this investigation. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to dismantle these organizations, disrupt their criminal activities, and put their members behind bars.”    

“Thanks to the hard work of our investigators and the diligence of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, 64 criminals are now off our streets and out of our communities,” said Texas DPS Regional Director Jeoff Williams. “Effective law partnerships are vital to operations like this and are instrumental in the making the state of Texas a safer place to live.”

The vast majority of defendants charged in this round, with charges announced in May 2018 following a massive takedown, had violent criminal histories.  Combined, they had 587 prior convictions; certain defendants had as many as 28 prior convictions.

This investigation was led by the Texas Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division (DPS-CID) Gang Unit and the Dallas Police Department.  The U.S. Marshal Service North Texas Fugitive Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Garland Police Department assisted in the investigation.

The Texas Anti-Gang Center, or TAG, coordinated the law enforcement operation.  The TAG serves as the unified headquarters for roughly 100 of the region’s most knowledgeable and experienced federal, state and local anti-gang investigators, analysts and prosecutors. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney P.J. Meitl was in charge of these prosecutions.

SENTENCING - JEAN LOUI VARGAS-MALAVE

On January 31, Jean Loui Vargas-Malave, 29, was sentenced 10 years in federal custody for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with the intent to distribute. Vargas-Malave agreed to smuggle controlled substances onto commercial airlines at the Dallas/Ft. Worth International Airport (DFWIA).  He, along with coconspirators, bypassed security at the DFWIA and loaded what they believed to be methamphetamine onto an American Airlines flight to Newark, New Jersey. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Criminal Investigations Division of the Internal Revenue Service, and the Dallas Police Department. This case was prosecuted by AUSA George Leal, AUSA John De La Garza, and AUSA John Kull.

GUILTY PLEA – HECTOR TORRES-GONZALEZ

On February 4, Hector Torres-Gonzalez, 44, pled guilty to aiding and abetting possession with the intent to distribute heroin. Torres-Gonzalez admitted to agreeing to distribute 24 kilograms of methamphetamine, 13 kilograms of heroin, and 91 grams of cocaine in April of 2019. Agents also found a pistol and $12,520 in Torres-Gonzalez’ possession. He faces up to 20 years in federal custody for his crimes. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and is prosecuted by AUSA Rachael Jones.

SENTENCING – AUSTIN DAVID REED

On February 3, Austin David Reed, 27, was sentenced to 15 years in federal custody for the crimes of carjacking and using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Reed stole a 2006 Acura from a victim by threatening the victim at gunpoint. After stealing the car, Reed led the officers pursuing him on a dangerous chase. Please click here to hear more about this case. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Dallas Police Department and was prosecuted by AUSA Ryan Raybould.

SENTENCING – JOHNNATTAN RAMIREZ

On February 3, Johnnattan Ramirez, 37, was sentenced to 25 years in federal custody and $182,942.96 in restitution for 3 counts related to robbery and 2 counts related to brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Ramirez was involved in three separate robberies of diamond and jewelry salesmen. Ramirez and his coconspirators would rent vehicles, conduct surveillance of the salesmen, and then apprehend their victims. The coconspirators would threaten the salesmen with guns and take their valuables, however on one occasion they also abducted a victim and took him to a nearby apartment complex. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and prosecuted by AUSA Ryan Raybould.  

SENTENCING – CRYSTAL DOUGLAS

On February 3, Chrystal Douglas, 35, was sentenced to 9 years in federal custody for maintaining a drug involved premises. Douglas allowed her coconspirator to conduct methamphetamine sales at her home in Arlington. In exchange, Douglas would receive personal use amounts of methamphetamine. Sometimes, Douglas was unaware of the amounts of methamphetamine being bought and sold in her house. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by AUSA Shawn Smith.

A father who threatened to shoot up a Dallas daycare has been charged with a gun crime, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Joshua Martinez, 28, was charged via criminal complaint with being a felon in possession of a firearm.

According to the complaint, Mr. Martinez – a felon convicted of robbery in 2010 – called his daughter’s mother on Feb. 6 and allegedly threatened to kill her. In a screenshot of the video call provided to law enforcement, Mr. Martinez could be seen brandishing a Glock handgun affixed to a laser/light apparatus.

The child’s mother told law enforcement Mr. Martinez had also allegedly threatened to shoot up his 4-year-old daughter’s daycare facility.

Following a high-speed chase through northwest Dallas, officers apprehended Mr. Martinez on a neighborhood side street.  They then retraced the route the fleeing vehicle had traveled and found a Glock 22 – a weapon that matched the handgun in the screenshot of Mr. Martinez’s video call – on the roadway.

After waiving his Miranda rights, Mr. Martinez allegedly confessed to possessing the firearm, which had been reported stolen.  

“This defendant allegedly threatened our city’s most precious, our most vulnerable,” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. “A formerly convicted felon, he was not legally permitted to possess firearms. We’re thankful law enforcement was able to get this man and his gun off the streets before tragedy could strike.”

"The FBI-led Dallas Violent Gangs Safe Streets Task Force is a great example of how agencies working together can prevent violent crime in our communities," said FBI Dallas Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. “The task force is focused on finding ways to effectively prevent individuals from committing acts of violence. This includes using federal charges when convicted felons continue to possess weapons even though they are prohibited from doing so."

A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. The defendant is considered innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.  

If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.

The case was brought under Project Guardian, the Justice Department's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.

It is also part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative, a program that surges federal and local law enforcement resources to communities’ most violent neighborhoods in order to root out offenders and built positive relationships with victims and witnesses.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Violent Gangs Safe Streets Task Force, the Dallas Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney P.J. Meitl is prosecuting the case.

An MS-13 gang member implicated in nine attempted murders was sentenced yesterday to life in federal prison following an investigation by HSI, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Rolan Ivan Hernandez-Fuentes, a.k.a. “Tasmania,” pleaded guilty in April 2019 to RICO conspiracy, and was sentenced Thursday afternoon by U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle.

Two of his coconspirators, Jerson Gutierrez-Ramos, a.k.a. “Sparky,” and Kevin Cruz, a.k.a. “Street Danger,” also pleaded guilty to RICO conspiracy and were sentenced to 40 years and 21 years imprisonment, respectively.

As members of MS-13 – a violent transitional gang with the creed, “kill, rob, rape, control” – the defendants were requited to commit acts of violence to maintain membership.

According to plea papers, all three were members of the MS-13 clique “Irving Loco Salvatruchas,” or IRC,  which attempted to kill nine people and extort a tenth during six violent episodes in the Dallas area in 2017.

Both El Salvadorian citizens in the U.S. illegally, Mr. Hernandez-Fuentes, 22, and Mr. Gutierrez-Ramos, 21, admitted to participation in all six violent episodes. Mr. Cruz, 20, also in the U.S. illegally, admitted to participation in four.  

“Their despicable motto says it all: ‘kill, rob, rape, control.’ MS-13 espouses a vicious disregard for human life,” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. “When machete-wielding gang members terrorize our streets, they will be met with swift and certain justice. We are gratified the Court has put this defendant behind bars for the rest of his life.”

“Aside from justice being served for the many victims of violent crime at the hands of blood thirsty MS-13 gang members, this life sentence also demonstrates HSI’s capabilities and resolve to dismantle these transnational criminal organizations piece by piece,” said Ryan L. Spradlin, special agent in charge of Homeland Security Investigations Dallas. “We will not tolerate the presence of these vicious criminals in our communities and will continue to prioritize taking them down and putting them where they belong - behind bars!” 

Per the defendant’s plea papers:

• On July 14, 2017, Hernandez-Fuentes, Gutierrez-Ramos, and other MS-13 members travelled to an apartment complex in Dallas to kill an individual whom they believed belonged to a rival gang.  At the complex, the MS-13 gang members — armed with machetes and knives — ambushed the victim and another man, intending to kill both.  The gang members struck, stabbed and cut the victims, inflicting life-threatening injuries.  One victim had his throat and chest sliced open, necessitating cardiac surgery and an extended hospital stay.  The other victim sustained cuts and lacerations to his face and head.  After the attack, Hernandez-Fuentes licked the victims’ blood from the machete and stated that he liked the “taste of victory.” 
   
• On July 15, 2017, Hernandez-Fuentes, Gutierrez-Ramos, and other MS-13 gang members attacked, robbed, and extorted a drug dealer in Irving.  The gang contacted the victim under the guise of seeking heroin.  Armed with the same machete from the night before,  Hernandez-Fuentes later forced the victim to kneel by hitting him with the flat part of machete and then then cutting him with it.  Gutierrez-Ramos then kicked the victim and another gang member took the heroin.  Hernandez-Fuentes took a cell phone photo of the victim and told him that they could find him if he refused to pay the ILS clique an extortion fee, a “tax,” to deal drugs in their territory.
   
• On August 9, 2017, Hernandez-Fuentes, Gutierrez-Ramos, Cruz, and other MS-13 gang members attacked a victim whom they believed belonged to a rival gang at an apartment complex in Dallas, intending to kill the victim.  Armed with a sledgehammer, an icepick, a metal bar, a stick, and a knife, they chased the victim, caught him when he tripped, and then attacked him. The victim, who managed to escape, suffered significant injuries, including stab wounds to his back and lacerations on several parts of his body, which left him hospitalized for three days.  
   
• On August 19, 2017, Hernandez-Fuentes, Gutierrez-Ramos, Cruz, and other members of MS-13 attacked and robbed a victim whom they believed was a rival gang member at an apartment complex in Irving.  Hernandez-Fuentes approached the victim near a Shell gas station and lured him to a nearby apartment complex where his fellow gang members were waiting.  After robbing the victim, they savagely beat, kicked, and hit him with a metal bat until they thought that he was dead.  The victim suffered significant injuries, including a fractured skull and bleeding from his brain, which required hospitalization. 
   
• In late August, Hernandez-Fuentes, Gutierrez-Ramos, Cruz, and other MS-13 members plotted twice to kill a man believed to be a member of a rival gang.  They first lured the victim to a park in Dallas, where they were waiting to kill him with machetes and a shotgun.  The victim ultimately refused to get out of his car when he arrived at the park, and they aborted the plan to kill him.  A few days later, they renewed the plot.  At an apartment complex in Dallas, they blocked the victim from leaving and confronted him with a shotgun.  Gutierrez-Ramos pointed the shotgun at the victim’s chest to shoot him, but the weapon jammed and did not fire.  The victim then drove away and escaped.
   
• On September 25, 2017, Hernandez-Fuentes, Gutierrez-Ramos, Cruz, and other MS-13 gang members went to Running Bear Park in Irving to ambush and kill a victim whom they believed to be a rival gang member.  Armed with machetes, sticks, and a shotgun, they lured the victim to the park under the guise that they were going to buy a tattoo machine from him.  The victim, however, unexpectedly arrived at the park with three friends.  Nonetheless, the victims were lured to the back of the park where the armed gang was hiding in the woods and waiting to spring.  When the victims arrived near the wooded area, the armed gang confronted them and forced them to kneel. A brutal attack ensued as the assailants hacked at the four victims with their machetes.  One male victim escaped unscathed.  During the attack, Hernandez-Fuentes hit one male victim with the shotgun and told him not to “mess with the mara (gang).”  At some point, Hernandez-Fuentes got distracted, and the victim ran away.  Hernandez-Fuentes fired at the victim but missed, and the victim escaped by swimming across a pond.  Another male victim also escaped after he sustained a serious cut to his arm, which required hospitalization.  The female victim, however, was not so fortunate.  She was savagely maimed, sustaining multiple deep lacerations to her arms, hands, and leg from the machete attack.  The female victim, who was left for dead badly bleeding in the park, sustained permanent and life-threatening injuries, which required extensive medical care and hospitalization.  After the attack, the attackers drove away with their weapons and property stolen from the victims.  The police arrested the attackers in the days following the savage assault.
   

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Irving Police Department, and the Dallas Police Department conducted the investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gary Tromblay and Sid Moody  are prosecuting the case with Trial Attorney Julie Finocchiaro of the Department of Justice's Organized Crime and Gang Section.

A suspected neo-Nazi has pleaded guilty to a gun crime following an investigation by the FBI, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox. 

Aiden Bruce-Umbaugh, 23, pleaded guilty to possession of firearms and ammunition by a prohibited person in Lubbock in January.

Video unsealed by the Court yesterday evening shows the defendant, handcuffed and clad in an orange jumpsuit, telling agents, “I assume you’re here because of my swastika flag and my firearms.”  

According to his plea papers, Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh – who was arrested in November in Post, Texas, dressed in tactical gear – admitted to possessing AR-15 rifle, two AK-47 rifles, a Sig Sauer 9mm pistol, and assorted ammunition while being an unlawful user of a controlled substance. (Federal law prohibits unlawful users of controlled substances to possess firearms.)

Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh admits he and Kaleb Cole were pulled over in a blue Ford Focus on Nov. 4. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement discovered the firearms, a small canister of marijuana, and a vial of THC oil.

Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh – who “avoided eye contact and limited conversation” with law enforcement and denied having anything illegal inside the vehicle during the traffic stop – later admitted that the firearms, marijuana, and THC belonged to him, telling investigators he smoked marijuana on a daily basis, according to plea papers.

“The Northern District of Texas is committed to keeping guns out of the hands of dangerous individuals,” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. “As a drug user, this defendant should never have been allowed to possess firearms. We’re grateful to our law enforcement partners for helpings us keep this defendant, and his guns, off the streets.”

“The amount of weapons and ammunition seized from the defendant could have caused serious harm. Luckily, the FBI and our law enforcement partners successfully intervened before an act of violence could be committed,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Matthew J. DeSarno. “The FBI will continue working with our partners to protect the communities we serve.”

In a detention hearing in November, prosecutors argued the government had reason to believe Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh is a member of AtomWaffen Division, a neo-Nazi hate group.

In jailhouse phone calls, Mr. Bruce-Umbaugh allegedly referenced his affiliation with “the group,” declared he was “a Nazi,” and discussed a photo taken of him and another AtomWaffen Division member at the Auschwitz concentration camp, prosecutors said at the detention hearing.

Propaganda videos admitted into evidence and released by the Court Monday – which spew hateful rhetoric against Jews – depict members of the AtomWaffen Division at self-described “hate camps” practicing hand-to-hand combat and shooting firearms. 

“Race war now!” they cry, before one displays a Nazi salute.

The defendant now faces a sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison. He is slated to be sentenced on Thursday, April 23.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Lubbock Resident Agency, the Garza County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Russell Lorfing and Stephen Rancourt are prosecuting the case.

The case was brought under Project Guardian, the Justice Department's signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws. Initiated by the Attorney General in the fall of 2019, Project Guardian draws upon the Department’s past successful programs to reduce gun violence; enhances coordination of federal, state, local, and tribal authorities in investigating and prosecuting gun crimes; improves information-sharing by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives when a prohibited individual attempts to purchase a firearm and is denied by the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS), to include taking appropriate actions when a prospective purchaser is denied by the NICS for mental health reasons; and ensures that federal resources are directed at the criminals posing the greatest threat to our communities. 

SENTENCING – DONNA WOODS

On January 30, Donna Woods was sentenced to 7 years and 3 months in federal custody and to paying $337,951.06 in restitution to the Federal Communications Commission for conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and wire fraud. Woods had approved the granting of a federal telecommunications E-rate contract to a company called ADI Engineering which was owned by Woods’ coconspirator. Woods received $50,000 in exchange for her approval of ADI Engineering, a company known to have a shoddy record. She also falsely reported that ADI had correctly completed their job. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office and the Federal Communications Commission Office of Inspector General and prosecuted by AUSA Russ Fusco and AUSA Nick Bunch. Click here to read more about this case.

GUILTY PLEA – ARTURO CALDERON

On January 28, Arturo Calderon, 26, pled guilty to making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. Between February 2018 and February 2019, Calderon purchased numerous firearms from licensed vendors. During the purchase of these firearms, Calderon responded falsely to the question on the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Form that asks if the buyer is “the actual transferee/buyer of the firearms(s) listed on this form.” Calderon purchased at least 16 firearms that he then gave to an individual who covered the cost of the firearms, and then additionally compensated Calderon. Calderon faces up to 10 years in federal custody for his crimes. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and is prosecuted by AUSA Brian McKay.

SENTENCING – RAFAEL RUBI

On January 29, Rafael Rubi, 24, was sentenced to 17 years in federal custody for possession with the intent to distribute heroin, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Rubi and his coconspirator were stopped for a traffic violation, and officers observed a firearm in plain view. Rubi is a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing a firearm. In the preceding week, Rubi had been involved in multiple drive-by shootings with the intention of extorting payment for damages in a car accident. A search warrant was executed at Rubi’s residence and officers recovered heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, alprazolam, marijuana, a drug ledger, and two pistols. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and was prosecuted by AUSA Rebekah Ricketts. Please click here to read more about this case.

SENTENCING – CIERA WASHINGTON

On January 27, Ciera Washington, 23, was sentenced to 5 years in federal custody for robbery. Washington waited in a vehicle as an escape driver, while her coconspirators stole 68 packs of cigarettes and $343 from a Valero gas station after striking the store clerk on the head with a firearm. The coconspirators were pursued by the police, and Washington led them on a high-speed chase, until she hit a curb. The coconspirators fled and escaped, however, Washington was apprehended as she was several months pregnant. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Mesquite Police Department, and the Dallas Police Department and is prosecuted by AUSA Cara Pierce.

SENTENCING – JESSE BELL

On January 30, Jesse Bell, 26, was sentenced to 17 years in federal custody for felon in possession of a firearm, interference with commerce by robbery, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. He and his coconspirator robbed a Valero gas station at gun point and struck the store clerk on the head with the pistol. He and his coconspirators then led police on a high-speed chase that eventually ended in Bell’s capture. It was revealed during trial that Bell had also sold firearms to an undercover agent, despite being a convicted felon. This is a Project Guardian case that was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Mesquite Police Department. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Cara Pierce. Click here to read more about this case.

 

GUILTY PLEA – ELLIS JAY JOHNSON

On January 30, Ellis Jay Johnson, 42, pled guilty to possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. A cooperating individual working with the Hunt County Sheriff’s Department went to Johnson’s home and purchased methamphetamine. The individual was wearing a recording device, and the officers used that recording to obtain a warrant. When the warrant was executed, officers found three firearms and methamphetamine. He faces up to 20 years in federal custody for his crimes. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Firearms, Tobacco, and Explosives, and the Hunt County Sheriff’s Office and is prosecuted by AUSA Suzanna Etessam.

SENTENCING – JUAN CARLOS FARIAS-LOYA

On January 29, Juan Carlos Farias-Loya, 34, was sentenced to 8 years in federal custody for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Through a confidential source, the Drug Enforcement Administration learned that Farias-Loya met the individual at both a Marshalls and a residence to sell methamphetamine. Later, Farias-Loya and his coconspirators used a money remitter business to wire proceeds to Mexico. Federal agents executed a search warrant at the residence and found a methamphetamine recrystallization laboratory, 6 kilograms of methamphetamine, receipts for money sent to Mexico, and $180,000 in proceeds. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by AUSA Suzanna Etessam.

An armed carjacker who led police on a wild chase across Northeast Dallas was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Austin David Reed, 27, pleaded guilty in September to carjacking and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.

According to plea papers, Mr. Reed admitted that while armed with a pistol, he used force and violence to steal a 2006 Acura in February 2019.  

Law enforcement encountered Mr. Reed, who was wearing a bullet proof vest, at a hotel room in Dallas after receiving about a domestic disturbance.

According to an indictment, Mr. Reed stated he was “not going down like this,” and fled the scene, running through a wooded area and into a nearby neighborhood, where he carjacked the Acura.

He then led police on a high-speed chase, crashing the car through a neighborhood gate in an attempt to reach the road.  After wrecking the Acura on a light pole, Mr. Reed exited the vehicle and ran into a nearby home. Inside, he brandished a knife and demanded car keys.  When one of the home’s occupants confronted Mr. Reed with a firearm, he fled through the garage.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Dallas Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Raybould prosecuted the case. U.S. District Judge Samuel A. Lindsay handed down the sentence.

Eight alleged gang members were arrested in a large-scale takedown Thursday, charged with gun and drug crimes following an investigation led by the DEA Dallas Division, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

“357 Crips” gang members Dwight Alexander Frank, Paul Adron Freeman, Vernon Ray Stiff, Calvin James Thomas, Tyrel Demond Washington, Bernice Lee Woodson, Jr., Bryson Busby, and Michael McCoy were arrested Thursday and charged with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

Four non-gang members – Alonzo Perez, Jr., Alonzo Perez, Sr., Beatriz Perez, and Max Davis – were also arrested and charged with related drug crimes.

The takedown, led by the DEA, began in the early morning hours Thursday, and stretched into the afternoon. The majority of the defendants were arrested at trap houses across the DFW metroplex, where agents seized roughly 2.5 kilograms of cocaine, 24 guns, and more than $300,000 in cash. (To date, the investigation has netted a total of approximately 7 kilos of cocaine, various other drugs, 37 firearms, and more than $500,000 in cash.

“There should never be any doubt that drug trafficking is not a victimless crime.  These gang members sought to profit and expand their influence by peddling drugs throughout South Dallas.  With the dismantlement of this organization, guns are no longer in the hands of these drug dealers and the drugs they sold are now off the streets.  It was only through a tremendous partnership with the Dallas PD, the ATF, and many other area law enforcement agencies that Dallas is safer today than it was yesterday,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Eduardo A. Chavez.  

“We are grateful to the many law enforcement partners who collaborated to disrupt a drug trafficking ring,” said U.S. Attorney Erin Nealy Cox. “Cocaine continues to wreak havoc on our community and we will vigorously prosecute those that distribute this deadly drug.”

In addition to the conspiracy count, Mr. Woodson was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute.

Ms. Perez, Jr., Mr. Stiff, Mr. Washington, and Mr. Woodson were also charged with maintaining drug-involved premises, as was Mr. Perez Jr.’s father.  

Mr. Perez, Jr., Mr. Washington, and Mr. Woodson were also charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Mr. Woodson was charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.  

Charges are merely allegations of criminal conduct, not evidence. The defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

If convicted, the defendants face 10 years to life in prison on the conspiracy charge. Those charged with maintaining a drug involved premises face an additional 20 years; those charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm face an additional 10 years; and those charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime face an additional five years.

The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Dallas Field Division conducted the investigation with assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives’ Dallas Field Division, the Dallas Police Department, Rockwall Police Department, Rockwall County Sheriff’s Office, Flower Mound Police Department, Farmer’s Branch Police Department, Garland Police Department, Hunt County Sheriff’s Office, Denton Police Department, Dallas County Sheriff’s Office, Grand Prairie Police Department, and Plano Police Department. The U.S. Marshals Service led the charge in tracking defendants and effecting arrests. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanna Etessam is prosecuting the case.

Attorney General William P. Barr today announced that Erin Nealy Cox, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas, has been elevated from Vice Chair to Chair of the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC).

Attorney General Barr also announced Justin Herdman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, will become the new Vice Chair.

“Erin Nealy Cox has shown herself to be a leader in the U.S. Attorney community, a fierce advocate for the rule of law who has spearheaded prosecution efforts targeting domestic abusers and other violent criminals,” said Attorney General Barr. “Justin Herdman has also been a leader at the forefront of the department’s fight against the deadly trade in fentanyl and other dangerous drugs. I am pleased to have them leading my AGAC team.”

U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox replaced former Chair, Jessie Liu who resigned this week as U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia.

In addition, Attorney General Barr appointed U.S. Attorney John Bash to the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee.

The AGAC represents the voice of the U.S. Attorneys and provides advice and counsel to the Attorney General on policy, management and operational issues impacting the Offices of the U.S. Attorneys.

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

A firearms trafficker was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison after authorities tracked him down following an armed robbery, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

The woman who acted as his getaway driver him was sentenced this week to five years in federal prison.

Jesse Bell, 26, pleaded guilty in July to being a felon in possession of a firearm, interference with commerce by robbery, and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.

Cierra Washington, 27, pleaded guilty in September to interference with commerce by robbery.

In plea papers, Mr. Bell – a formerly convicted felon – admitted that he and a coconspirator robbed a Valero gas station at gunpoint in June.

A store clerk, who was struck in the head with a pistol during the altercation, slipped a tracking device into the cash he handed over to Mr. Bell. Law enforcement used it to locate the car in which they fled, which led police on a high speed chase until hitting a curb.

Inside the truck, officers found a bag filled with the cash and tracker from the robbery as well as two firearms and an identification card belonging to Mr. Bell.

Police apprehended Ms. Washington, who was pregnant at the time of the robbery, immediately after she jumped out of the driver’s seat. They apprehended Mr. Bell weeks later.  

At Mr. Bell’s sentencing hearing, the prosecutor revealed that despite the probation against convicted felons possessing firearms, he sold an undercover agent several firearms over the course of a few months.

“This case clearly demonstrates violent offenders shouldn’t be allowed to carry firearms – much less sell them,” said U.S. Attorney Nealy Cox. “The Northern District of Texas, working hand-in-hand with ATF, is committed to prosecuting gun crimes under Project Guardian, the Attorney General’s gun violence reduction initiative.”

“ATF has made firearms trafficking and keeping illegal firearms out of the hands of violent offenders its top priority in the Dallas metroplex. This demonstrates the level of violence that several individuals can cause within our communities. Dallas is safer with them behind bars,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II.

The case was brought under Project Guardian, the Justice Department’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence using federal firearm laws.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives conducted the investigation with assistance from the Mesquite Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cara Foos Pierce is prosecuting the case.

A Dallas charter school CEO was sentenced Thursday to more than seven years in federal prison for her role in a corruption scandal following an investigation by the FBI Dallas Field Office, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

In October, a federal jury deliberated for just four hours before finding Nova Academy CEO Donna H. Woods, 65, guilty of one count of conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud, and three individual counts of wire fraud. 

U.S. District Judge Sidney A. Fitzwater sentenced her Thursday morning to 87 months in federal prison and ordered her to pay $337,951.06 in restitution to the Federal Communications Commission.

Woods’s co-conspirator, Donatus Anyanwu, 61, pleaded guilty to conspiracy in July. Judge Fitzwater sentenced him to 30 months in prison and declared him jointly and severally liable for the restitution owed to the FCC Thursday.

According to evidence presented at trial, Ms. Woods approved the granting of a federal telecommunications E-rate contract, worth approximately $337,951, to ADI Engineering, a company owned by Dr. Anyanwu.  In return for the E-rate contract, Anyanwu paid Woods $50,000 in kickbacks.

When the charter school initially selected another contractor for E-rate, prosecutors explained, Ms. Woods filed a falsified E-rate application re-directing the contract to ADI – despite the company’s shoddy record.  To ensure that ADI’s bid was accepted by E-rate program managers, Ms. Woods also allowed Dr. Anyanwu to copy portions of the original winning bid and pass off the work as his own.

Then, when, ADI botched the E-rate job, Ms. Woods falsely certified that it had completed the work when it had not.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office and Federal Communications Commission Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. U.S. Attorneys Russ Fusco and Nick Bunch prosecuted the case. Senior U.S. District Judge Sidney A. Fitzwater presided over the trial.

A gang member involved in several drive-by shootings in Dallas was sentenced today to 17 years in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Erin Nealy Cox.

Rafael Rubi, 24, pleaded guilty in September to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.

Using the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network, or NIBIN, federal agents were able to link shell casings found at the scenes of at least four drive-by shootings in Dallas’ Oak Cliff neighborhood to firearms found in Mr. Rubi’s home and car.

In plea papers, Mr. Rubi, a member of the street gang La Familia Homeboy, admitted he was involved in all four drive-by shootings, including one shooting that targeted a driver previously involved in a car accident with Mr. Rubi’s girlfriend and another shooting that targeted the driver’s family members.

In total, approximately 119 cartridge casings were recovered at the scenes of the shootings.

The majority of the casings were later linked to two Glock pistols – one found stashed in a toilet tank in Mr. Rubi’s apartment (along with heroin, methamphetamine, cocaine, and drug paraphernalia), and another recovered from his Ford Mustang during a traffic stop hours after the final shooting.

During that traffic stop, officers observed Mr. Rubi’s passenger making “furtive movements” toward the floorboard, where they later located the loaded Glock pistol. Mr. Rubi admits he handed the Glock to the passenger and asked him to hide it.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and the Dallas Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebekah Ricketts and Gary Tromblay prosecuted the case. U.S. District Judge Ed Kinkeade handed down the sentence.