Southern District of Texas

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – Eight Corpus Christi residents have been ordered to federal prison following their convictions for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute synthetic cannabinoids, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

James Roye Bryan Townzen, 30, Victoria Martinez, 24, Michael Llamas, 29, Benjamin Llamas, 35, Raymond Reyes, 38, John Perez, 28, Raymond Shane Townzen, 29, and Joe McNabb, 30, pleaded guilty April 16, 2019, while Charles Warren Callis, 42, entered his plea Aug. 19, 2019.  

Today, Senior U.S. District Judge John D. Rainey sentenced Callis to serve 226 months in federal prison for his involvement with the synthetic cannabinoid offense. He also pleaded guilty to an unrelated possession with intent to distribute cocaine charge, but proceeded to trial on a related possession of a firearm in furtherance of cocaine trafficking. A jury convicted him of that charge July 30, 2019. He received a sentence of 166 months for the cocaine trafficking to be served consecutively to another 60 months for the firearm. That total sentence will be served concurrently to the 166-month sentence imposed in the synthetic cannabinoids case for a total 226-month sentence.

In December 2019, James Townzen received a sentence of 222 months in prison. Raymond Townzen was sentenced to 150 months, while Reyes, Perez and McNabb were ordered to serve respective terms of 84, 72 and 156 months in federal prison. Martinez and Michael Llamas received 160 and 200 months, respectively, for the drug charge in addition to another 60 months for possessing a firearm which must be served consecutively. Their total 220 and 260-month-terms of imprisonment will also be immediately followed by three years of supervised release.

Callis was ordered to serve five years of supervised release while the remaining defendants will serve three-year-terms following their respective sentences. 

The final defendant - Benjamin Llamas - will be sentenced next month.

At the sentencing hearings, the court heard from an expert witness from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) who provided testimony about how the DEA handles newly emerging synthetic narcotics, their adverse effects and the imminent hazard they present to the public safety. A special agent with Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) also testified as to the impact synthetic cannabinoids have on the local community.

In handing down the sentences, the court acknowledged the significant danger of synthetic cannabinoids as well as the large scale of the operation, specifically the steps taken to import the chemicals and produce such a large quantity of product that was distributed within the community.

In January 2018, officials intercepted an international package from China sent to Corpus Christi that contained a kilogram of the synthetic cannabinoid 5F-MDMB-PINACA, a Schedule I controlled substance.

The investigation determined James Townzen was ordering illegal chemicals from overseas and using them to manufacture synthetic marijuana, or Kush, inside a room at Callis’ business Done Right AC. The finished product was then provided to Michael Llamas and others who would advertise and sell the illegal substance through online social media platforms, such as Facebook.

Further, authorities discovered that after James Townzen was taken into custody for unrelated state violations, he continued to run and direct the operation. While in custody, he provided detailed instructions to Martinez who continued to order the chemicals, manufacture the products inside Done Right AC and distribute them through Llamas. Other members of the conspiracy were responsible for picking up the international packages or purchasing the material and equipment needed to complete the process.

Law enforcement officials estimate the organization produced and sold more than 300 pounds of the illegal substance.             

Synthetic cannabinoids are chemical compounds that mimic the psychoactive ingredient in marijuana. These chemical compounds can be applied to carrier mediums such as plant material and ingested using rolling papers, pipes, vaporizers or otherwise taken orally. Synthetic cannabinoids are usually sold in small, foil or plastic bags containing dried leaves (resembling potpourri) and is marketed as incense that can be smoked. It is commonly sold and known on the street as synthetic marijuana, fake weed, legal and by its popular brand names such as Spice, K2, Kush, Klimaxx and many others.

All defendants have been and will remain in custody.

HSI led the year-long investigation known as Operation Done Wrong with the assistance of DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lance Watt is prosecuting the case.

HOUSTON - A 31-year-old Houston man has been sentenced to prison for receipt and possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Jonathan Deshon Alexander pleaded guilty Aug. 12, 2019.  

Today, Chief U.S. District Court Judge Lee H. Rosenthal ordered Alexander to serve 84 months in federal prison. In handing down the sentence, the court noted these are agonizing cases which involve real children who have been abused. Judge Rosenthal considered the number of years Alexander had been viewing child pornography, his willingness to get help and what was appropriate in this particular case. 

Alexander had admitted to receiving and possessing child pornography for seven years. The court decided to assess Alexander’s punishment for the same amount of years he made these children victims once more. He will also serve 15 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender and must pay restitution to the victims.

In March 2017, law enforcement conducted an online session using a publicly available peer-to-peer file sharing network and located an IP address folder contained videos of child pornography. The IP address was associated with Alexander and his residence.

He admitted to downloading child pornography since approximately 2010.  Forensic analysis found more than 326 videos of child pornography, including some of children under the age of five, bondage and acts of violence.

Previously released on bond, Alexander was permitted to voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The FBI conducted the investigation.  

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

HOUSTON – A 33-year-old Cypress resident has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction for illegally possessing a machine gun and impersonating a federal agent, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Mitchell Shoemaker pleaded guilty Aug. 23, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Court Judge Ewing Werlein Jr. handed Shoemaker a 78-month sentence for the firearms charge. He also received a 36-month sentence for the impersonation, which is to be served concurrently to the other sentence imposed. The sentences are to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. Shoemaker was further ordered to pay $2,000 in fines. At the hearing, the court considered that Shoemaker continued to abuse illegal substances and to unlawfully possess several firearms after he was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in 2014. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Shoemaker has spent years lying and deceiving others, that he obstructed justice by destroying evidence and that he has shown virtually no respect for the law.

“The Diplomatic Security Service’s (DSS) strong relationship with the Magnolia Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas continues to be essential in the pursuit of justice,” said Jeffrey McGallicher, Special Agent in Charge of the DSS - Houston Field Office. “This shows the positive outcome when local law enforcement and federal agencies work together to stop someone from impersonating a federal agent.”

On Dec. 18, 2018, Shoemaker presented a fake badge to law enforcement officers at the shooting range in Magnolia. He admitted he represented himself to be an agent with DSS in order to gain access to the law enforcement only shooting range. He was found to not have ties to any federal agency and was immediately taken into custody.  

At the time of his arrest, Shoemaker was in possession of seven firearms and two silencers. Among them was a machine gun - a F.N. (FN Herstal) PS90, 5.7 caliber rifle – that he was prohibited from possessing.  Eight more firearms were seized from Shoemaker’s home the following day pursuant to a federal search warrant.

The investigation revealed Shoemaker had previously represented himself to be a federal law enforcement agent and participated in target practice with a local officer.

Authorities obtained video of him firing weapons, including the machine gun. They also found additional videos in which Shoemaker discussed the features of the F.N. PS90 weapon and modifications he made to the firearm. In the video, he pointed out the “giggle switch” which refers to the selector level to switch the weapon to automatic fire.

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

DSS, ATF and Magnolia Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carrie Wirsing and Britni Cooper prosecuted the case.

McALLEN, Texas — Two South Texas men have been ordered to federal prison following their convictions of transferring machine guns, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Martin Guerra, 44, Palmview, and Saul De La Garza, 46, Sullivan City, pleaded guilty Nov 25, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez sentenced Guerra to 50 months in federal prison while De La Garza, a previously convicted felon, received a total 78-month term of imprisonment. Both men will then serve three years of supervised release following completion of their prison terms. In handing down the sentence, Judge Alvarez stressed the significant nature of the crime both men committed and noted the demand for firearms in Mexico.

Both men had attempted to coordinate the sale of three machine guns - two Glock auto-switches and an AR-style rifle - to undercover authorities. The men believed the weapons would ultimately be illicitly transported to Mexico. Through the course of the investigation, Guerra bragged that he would be able to provide as many weapons as desired. De La Garza claimed he would be able to transport firearms from Houston to the Rio Grande Valley and coordinated with Guerra to make the sale of the machine guns.

Guerra has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future, while Garza was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender at a later date.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Mitchell Prosecuted the case.

McALLEN, Texas - Multiple men have been ordered to prison for a significant amount of time following their convictions related to drug trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Those convicted include Marcial Martinez, 37, Dallas; Saul Delgado, 31, Duncanville; Javier Del Rio, 34, Garland; and Mexican citizens Jose Adalberto Munoz-Mancias, 38, Cuidad Mier, Tamaulipas, Mexico; and Edson Roman Gonzalez, 37, Morelia, Michoacan, Mexico. They all pleaded guilty in either June or July 2019 to conspiring to possess with intent to distribute more than five hundred grams of meth.  

Today, U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez ordered Munoz-Mancias to serve 360 months in federal prison. Already on supervised release for a previous conviction of illegal re-entry, the court revoked the remainder of that term and further ordered he serve an additional 24 months to run in part concurrent and in part consecutive for a total of 370 months. The court imposed respective sentences of 170 and 120 months for Roman and Delgado.

On Jan. 29, Del Rio was sentenced to 174 months imprisonment.

Judge Alvarez sentenced Martinez on Jan. 21 to a 25-year-term of imprisonment.

Martinez and Delgado will also serve five years of supervised release following their sentences. Del Rio will serve a three-year term of supervised release. Not U.S. citizens, Munoz-Mancias and Roman are expected to face removal proceedings following their prison terms.

When imposing the sentencings, Judge Alvarez noted the drug trafficking organization had been successful in distributing such a significant amount of meth, that it could have devastated many families.

On Dec. 3, 2018, Munoz-Mancias had siphoned a significant amount of liquid meth from one tractor-trailer to undercover authorities and instructed them to drive the load to Dallas which they did the following day.   

There, Del Rio and Roman siphoned the liquid meth into plastic barrels. After it was removed, Delgado arrived and confirmed the delivery. Martinez subsequently arrived and paid the undercover agents approximately $20,000 for the transportation.

In total, authorities seized approximately 150 gallons of liquid meth which converts to more than 500 kilograms of meth.

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen J. Rees prosecuted the case.

HOUSTON - A suburban Houston-area man has been convicted of 15 counts of fraud and tax violations following a two-week jury trial, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Winfred Fields operated tax and bookkeeping businesses from an office on Richmond Avenue in Houston for many years under the business names Fields Enterprises, Your Tax Professionals and The Tax Boss.

At trial, the jury heard Fields participated in a scheme involving the submission of U.S. Individual Tax Returns on behalf of foreign people working on vessels on the Outer Continental Shelf of the United States. These crewmembers were engaged in oil and gas exploitation activities in the Gulf of Mexico. 

Evidence showed Fields falsely claimed workers were exempt from U.S. tax under a tax treaty between the U.S. and the United Kingdom, Spain or New Zealand. The employing companies had previously provided to the IRS withholdings from the worker’s wages and reported the income to the IRS. However, Fields submitted amended tax returns as well as original nonresident tax forms 1040NR claiming a refund of the entirety of the amounts paid in as U.S. taxes for various tax years including 2007 through 2012. 

Fields charged a fee of $2,500 for each crew member’s first return and required a $1,000 fee for each return thereafter. He required direct receipt of the refunds so that he could negotiate the checks and take his fee off the top. Fields had some refund checks deposited directly into one of several bank accounts he maintained. Alternatively, he cashed the checks at a Houston check cashing business or had the checks deposited into one of several attorney trust accounts three different Houston lawyers had maintained. Fields gathered the check proceeds or deposited them into the attorney trust accounts after paying a fee to the check cashing business and the attorneys for the service of cashing the U.S. Treasury checks. Fields deposited the proceeds in one of several bank accounts he utilized during the scheme.

Fields agreed to provide the remainder of the refund proceeds to the foreign clients. He did that for a while, but ultimately stopped forwarding any money to the workers. As those individuals began contacting him to ask for updates on their refund claims, he repeatedly sent misleading and materially false responses to their questions. 

The jury heard that Fields fraudulently obtained $3,097,974.19 in tax refunds from the IRS and kept approximately $1,302,271.75 for himself.

The defense attempted to convince the jury he acted in good faith and believed the wages were exempt. He also claimed he was trying to pay the crewmembers their refunds but just got behind. The jury rejected Fields’ contentions in their verdict and found him guilty as charged on all 15 counts.

U.S. District Ewing Werlein Jr. presided over trial and has set sentencing for May 2020. At that time, Fields faces up to 20 years for conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and count of mail fraud. For the other 13 tax fraud convictions, he also faces up to three years in federal prison. He may also be ordered to pay restitution to his victims and up to $250,000 in fines.

IRS - Criminal Investigation and U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melissa Annis and Charles Escher prosecuted this case.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas - A 31-year-old Mathis man has been ordered to federal prison for trafficking meth and illegally possessing a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. 

Scott McCarty pleaded guilty Nov. 21, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos handed McCarty a total 200-month sentence to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. He also received an additional 120 months for the firearms offense which will run concurrently.

On or about July 26, through approximately Aug. 26, 2019, McCarty and Parris Olivarez were involved in a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth. The couple had distributed the narcotics from their house in Mathis on two separate occasions.

Law enforcement conducted a search warrant, resulting in the discovery of meth as well as two firearms, including a .45 caliber 1911 and 9mm Smith & Wesson found in and under their bed.

McCarty has prior felony convictions in Texas for failure to register as a sex offender and burglary of a habitation and is, therefore, prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition per federal law.

McCarty was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Olivarez, 29, Mathis, had also pleaded guilty and was previously sentenced to 120 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Department of Public Safety and sheriff’s offices in San Patricio and Jim Wells Counties conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Reid Manning is prosecuting the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 29-year-old Laredoan has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction for conspiring to transport aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. 

Jesus Ramon Soto Jr. pleaded guilty Nov. 5, 2019.  

Today, U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana handed Soto a 46-month sentence to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court noted Soto’s behavior was “egregious” and “callous” and showed a complete disregard for human life. 

On Aug. 21, 2019, Soto was driving a white tanker truck near the intersection of West Viggie Street and North Rigma Avenue in Hebbronville. Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle for speeding.  

Federal authorities were called to the scene, after which a K-9 alerted to the presence of persons or contraband concealed within the vehicle. They soon found 27 undocumented aliens concealed within the tank in waist-high water. 

Soto said he knew he was transporting undocumented aliens. Someone drove him to the truck, where he observed numerous people being loaded into the water tank compartment. Soto later drove the truck to a water station and filled it until the aliens were approximately waist-deep in water.

Soto expected to be paid $5,000 to transport the aliens to San Antonio.

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

The Jim Hogg County Constable’s Office and Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Bukiewicz is prosecuting the case.

McALLEN, Texas – The former mayor of La Joya has been indicted on two counts of wire fraud relating to a public relations contract and the purchase of real property, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Authorities arrested Jose “Fito” Salinas, 81, today. He is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Juan Alaniz 11 a.m. tomorrow.

A federal grand jury returned the indictment Feb. 11. It was unsealed today upon his arrest.

From June 2018 to approximately November 2018, the City of La Joya entered into a public relations contract with Sylvia Garces Valdez, according to the charges. As a condition for receiving the contract, the mayor’s daughter - Frances Salinas De Leon – was to allegedly receive a portion of the contract’s payments.

The indictment alleges that from January 2016 to approximately July 2016, Salinas devised a scheme that resulted in the City of La Joya purchasing property he owned at a highly-inflated rate.

If convicted, Salinas faces up to 20 years in federal prison and up to $250,000 maximum fine. The indictment also includes a notice of intent to forfeit $235,000.

Former La Joya Housing Authority member Valdez, 39, La Joya, is also charged in relation to the scheme as is former interim executive director for the La Joya Housing Authority – De Leon, 52, La Joya. They face up to 10 and 20 years in prison, respectively.

The FBI, Department of Housing and Urban Development - Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarina S. DiPiazza and Roberto Lopez, Jr. are prosecuting the case.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

McALLEN, Texas - A 23-year-old man has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Dan Eliud Moncada-Gonzalez pleaded guilty Nov. 25, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez sentenced Moncada-Gonzalez to 120 months in federal prison. In handing down the sentence, the court noted his behavior was not a lapse in judgment as the defense attempted to portray, adding that Moncada-Gonzalez was provided multiple opportunities to stop his conduct. He was further ordered to serve five years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Moncada-Gonzalez will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

In June 2019, Moncada-Gonzalez enticed an individual he believed to be a 13-year-old female on a social media application. During his conversations, he sent multiple unsolicited sexually-explicit images of himself and others and described sexual acts he desired to perform with the minor.

Moncada-Gonzalez then requested to meet in person at an agreed upon location. There, he expected to engage in sexual activity with the minor. Law enforcement took him into custody upon his arrival.

At the time of his arrest, Moncada-Gonzalez had condoms, lubricant, oral gel and marijuana with him.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Investigations Task Force conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Mitchell and Claire Nguyen 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 the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

LAREDO, Texas – A total of five men from Laredo have admitted to conspiracy and possessing with the intent to distribute various amount of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Christian Alejandro Enriquez, 27, pleaded guilty today. Luis Ernesto Lopez, 34, Martin Arturo Ramirez, 28, Jose Erasmo Saucedo Jr., 38, and Luis Antonio Villanueva, 41, previously entered their pleas.  

In July 2016, authorities initiated an investigation into Saucedo’s street-level cocaine distribution activities. Between Feb. 2, 2017, and April 19, 2019, Saucedo conspired with Lopez, Ramirez, Villanueva and Enriquez in person and over the telephone to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.

Today, all five men admitted they were involved in the transportation of cocaine on various dates. On one occasion, Ramirez coordinated an event in which Lopez picked up a bag of 1.5 kilograms of cocaine from Villanueva’s house. On other dates, Saucedo and Enriquez also sold cocaine to undercover authorities.  

U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will impose sentencing June 1, 2020.

Saucedo, Villanueva and Ramirez face a minimum of five and up to 40 years in prison and a possible $5 million fine. For their convictions, Lopez and Enriquez face a maximum 20-year-prison term and a possible $1 million fine.

Ramirez, Saucedo, Villanueva and Enriquez were permitted to remain on bond pending their sentencing hearings. Lopez has been and will remain in custody.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, Texas Department of Public Safety and Laredo Police Department conducted the long-term Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force investigation dubbed Funion Fiesta. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher dos Santos is prosecuting the case.

HOUSTON – Several individuals will be participating in a clean-up effort following their charges of illegal dumping in the Sam Houston National Forest (SHNF), announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick and Montgomery County District Attorney Brett W. Ligon.

On Aug. 1, 2019, area law enforcement formed a multi-agency task force comprised of federal, state and local agencies to attempt to curb illegal dumping in the SHNF. Dumpsters are placed in the forest and people are encouraged not to litter, but the ongoing problem warranted further action.

During the initial enforcement period, task force officers identified and charged a number of people for illegally dumping materials in SHNF. These individuals were typically found to be illegally discarding furniture, tires, construction materials, bottles, rags and various other forms of trash in the forest. A number of state and federal prosecutions are now pending for the illegal dumping, and multiple arrests have occurred. In an effort to remedy the immediate problem, a number of the individuals charged are scheduled to take part in a clean-up effort in SHNF Saturday, Feb. 8.

“Dumping on National Forest land is illegal and goes against the conservation mission of the property,” said Patrick. “With federal and state land set aside for parks and conservation throughout Montgomery and surrounding counties, this was the perfect joint partnership. District Attorney Ligon has been fantastic, and his involvement was key in bringing local law enforcement to the project.”

“People need to think twice about dumping their garbage on forest land that belongs to all of us,” said Ligon. “This behavior is not harmless, it will not be tolerated, and there will be consequences when we catch the people who are involved.” 

Both Ligon and Patrick commended the dedicated enforcement efforts of game wardens, agents and deputies from Texas Parks and Wildlife, U.S. Forest Service and Montgomery County Precinct One Constable’s Office in addressing illegal dumping in SHNF.

Assistant District Attorneys Michael Ghutzman and Nathan Alsbrooks handled the state charges, while Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Epley is handling the federal matters.

LAREDO, Texas – A 40-year-old Laredoan has been ordered to prison after admitting she imported a large amount of cocaine via the Gateway to the Americas International Bridge, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Yuriria Verastegui pleaded guilty Nov. 5, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo ordered her to serve a 70-month sentence to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court noted that even though Verastegui’s husband is serving a federal prison sentence himself for similar conduct, she still chose to do this on two more occasions, knowing the possible consequences.

Verastegui attempted to enter the United States July 24, 2019, driving a Ford SUV. Authorities noticed tampering with its interior quarter panels, lifted a tray to access them and found 16 bundles of cocaine.

The drugs weighed a total of approximately 16 kilograms with a value of $512,000.

Verastegui pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, admitting she knew there were narcotics in her vehicle and expected to be paid $9,600 for transporting them.   

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony J. Evans is prosecuting the cases.

McALLEN, Texas – A 46-year-old woman has been ordered to federal prison for following her conviction of importing a large quantity of 97% pure meth, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Elizabeth Garcia, Houston, pleaded guilty Nov. 21, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Randy Crane ordered Garcia to serve 175 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Garcia was a habitual drug trafficker and cited her extensive criminal record, which included trafficking 10 kilograms of cocaine, possessing more than 30 kilograms of marijuana, her involvement in an alien transporting conspiracy and engaging in organized criminal activity.

On July 22, 2019, Garcia attempted to enter the United States through the Hidalgo Port of Entry. She was referred to secondary inspection where authorities discovered a total of 37 packages with 32.6 kilograms of meth concealed within her BMW.

Lab tests revealed a 97% purity rate.

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid prosecuted the case.

HOUSTON – The leaders and two others have been ordered to federal prison after passing more than $1.3 million in counterfeit checks in Houston and Louisiana, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

A jury convicted Harold Chaney, 49, Missouri City, Oct. 3, 2019, following a three-day trial and approximately four hours of deliberation. Also sentenced today were Charmine Godine, 46, and Marcus McNeal, 40, both of Missouri City, along with Frank Chaney, 55, Houston, who had all previously pleaded guilty for their roles in the scheme.

Today, U.S. District Judge David Hittner ordered Harold Chaney, one of the leaders, to serve a 235-month sentence. The other leader – Godine - received a 240-month-term of imprisonment, while Frank Chaney and McNeal received respective terms of 85 and 160 months. All will also serve three years of supervised release following their sentences.

At the hearing, the court heard evidence that showed the group was responsible for attempting to steal more than $6 million in merchandise and passing over $1.3 million in counterfeit checks.  

Harold Chaney and Godine headed the group who purchased expensive goods from retail stores using a sophisticated counterfeiting scheme.

McNeal provided stolen checking account information, which he obtained as a courier for a legitimate business. Harold Chaney and Godine used the stolen account information and stolen identities to create counterfeit checks using a special computer program and special printer paper.

Other members of the group, such as Frank Chaney, used the counterfeit checks to purchase computers, appliances and construction materials at retail stores.  The group then sold the items to customers on the black market.

Authorities also found them with hundreds of stolen identifications, which they used to establish criminal identities.

All four Harold Chaney, Frank Chaney and McNeal have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The Secret Service, Houston Police Department and Harris County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation as part of the Houston Area Fraud Task Force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim McAlister is prosecuting the case.

 

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – The final defendant has admitted her guilt in the human smuggling conspiracy that left six people dead in Robstown in June 2019, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Mayra Chaver, 32, of Honduras, pleaded guilty today to assisting an undocumented immigrant to evade arrest. The three others charged in relation to the crime – Mexican citizens Agustin Gutierrez-Gonzalez, 33, and Ivan Dario Puga-Moreno, 30; and Elena Ruiz, 35, of Corpus Christi – had previously entered their guilty pleas to conspiracy to transport undocumented aliens into the United States causing death or serious bodily injury.

On June 5, 2019, authorities discovered a wrecked Chevrolet Suburban in a ditch in Robstown. Six people were found deceased at the scene with 12 more requiring hospitalization due to their significant injuries.

Puga-Moreno was the driver of the wrecked vehicle and had been attempting to smuggle 18 undocumented immigrants. Further investigation revealed Puga-Moreno fled the scene of the accident with the assistance of his girlfriend and friends Ruiz, Chaver and Gutierrez-Gonzalez.

At the time of his plea, Puga-Moreno admitted he was driving the vehicle that crashed. He also acknowledged that when the accident occurred, he was evading police, confirming he was a citizen from Mexico and fled to Houston in an attempt to avoid arrest.

Chaver, Ruiz and Gutierrez-Gonzalez admitted they helped Puga-Moreno flee the scene and evade arrest after the crashed occurred.

U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos will impose sentencing April 22. At that time, Puga-Moreno, Ruiz and Gutierrez-Gonzalez face up to life in prison. Chaver received time served for her role in the offense.   

Puga-Moreno and Gutierrez-Gonzalez have been and will remain in custody pending sentencing. Ruiz was permitted to remain on bond pending her hearing.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Border Patrol, Corpus Christi Police Department and Nueces County Sherriff’s Office conducted the investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Cody Barnes and Jeremy Carl Fugate are prosecuting the case. 

HOUSTON – A South Texas law enforcement officer now finds himself behind prison bars following his conviction on multiple drug trafficking charges, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

A federal jury in Houston convicted Hector Beltran, 44, Edinburg, on July 22, 2019, for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine. Beltran was a former Edinburg Police Department K-9 officer.

Today, U.S. District Judge Keith P. Ellison imposed a total 120-month sentence to be followed by five years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court noted Beltran abused his position of trust as a law enforcement officer (LEO) and used a possessed a firearm during the commission of the offense.

During the two-week trial, the jury heard that the investigation began in 2011 when authorities targeted a drug trafficking organization involved in the transportation and distribution of cocaine and marijuana. During the course of the investigation, agents learned the organization was stealing cocaine and marijuana from the source of supply with the assistance of LEOs. The scheme was to pose as drug transporters. However, instead of transporting the cocaine and marijuana, they sold the drugs and told the source of supply that law enforcement had seized the narcotics.

In their effort to cover up the theft, the drug trafficking organization created fake bundles of  cocaine and marijuana and used LEOs to seize it. Once authorities seized the fake cocaine and marijuana, the drug trafficking organization provided law enforcement seizure documents to the source of supply.

During the course of the investigation, agents discovered Beltran, while an Edinburg police officer, conducted more than 10 seizures of fake drugs. Most involved the drug trafficking organization leaving the fake drug bundles in abandoned vehicles, giving Beltran the vehicle’s location and having him seize them. Since the seizures did not involve any arrests, the fake drugs were not tested and put in evidence lockers.

Upon discovery of the scheme, a review of Beltran’s drug seizures revealed bundles of suspected marijuana contained hay, while bundles of suspected cocaine contained only trace amounts of cocaine hydrochloride.

Testimony at trial showed Beltran personally conducted and assisted other law enforcement agencies with the seizure of approximately 600 kilograms of fake marijuana and 168 kilograms of fake cocaine. The jury also heard the drug trafficking organization paid Beltran for his participation in each seizure of fake drugs.

Beltran testified at trial and denied participating in the scheme. The jury did not believe his claims and ultimately found him guilty.  

Previously released on bond, Beltran was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The investigation has led to the arrest and prosecution of 20 individuals including Beltran and five other LEOs – two BP agents; officers with the Houston and Edcouch Police Departments and Harris County Constable’s Office; and a former chief of the LaJoya Police Department.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations

and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force Investigation dubbed Operation Blue Shame. Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey N. MacDonald and Anibal J. Alaniz prosecuted the case.

HOUSTON – A 33-year-old resident of Houston has admitted he illegally possessed firearms and ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.  

Joffre Cross III surrendered to federal authorities today and entered a plea of guilty.

On Feb. 20, 2019, authorities executed a federal search warrant at the Cross residence. Upon entry, they located an AK-style rifle and approximately 2200 rounds of ammunition.

Having been convicted in April 2008 in North Carolina federal court for distribution of controlled substances, he is prohibited per federal law of possessing any firearms or ammunition.

At the time of the search they also found a homemade pistol and three homemade rifles.

Sentencing is set before Chief U.S. District Judge Rosenthal for May 27. At that time, Cross faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine.

He will remain in custody pending that hearing.

The FBI and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Schammel is prosecuting the case.

GALVESTON, Texas - A 26-year-old Houston man is headed to federal prison following his convictions related to the 2019 robberies of a BBVA Compass Bank in Friendswood and Texas First Bank in Galveston, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Tremaine Venters pleaded guilty Oct. 30, 2019, to two counts of aiding and abetting bank robbery and aiding and abetting brandishing of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

Today, U.S. District Judge Jeffrey Brown handed Venters a 57-month sentence for the robbery. He also received an additional 168 months for the firearms charge which must be served consecutively to the other sentence imposed for a total 225-month term of imprisonment. At the hearing, the court noted his prior felony offenses and criminal history as well as the necessity of keeping society safe from individuals committing offenses with guns. 

On Jan. 3, 2019, Venters entered the BBVA Compass Bank in Friendswood along with Jordan Johnson. Both men approached the counter, placed guns in front of tellers and demanded money. The tellers complied and Venters and Johnson exited the bank.

Less than two weeks later, Venters and Johnson also robbed the Texas First Bank in Galveston with a firearm. Venters walked up to the teller counter and tossed  bag on the counter. Simultaneously, Johnson placed a gun on the counter and demanded “hundreds and fifties” from a teller.

He then walked over to another teller station and said “I need hundreds.” That teller mistakenly believed he just wanted to make a withdrawal and reached for a withdrawal slip. At that time, Johnson said “no” and tapped his gun on the teller counter. She then opened her cash drawer, at which time Johnson told her to just give him the whole drawer. He put the money in a plastic grocery bag, and both men left.

Bank employees were able to get a vehicle description and a license plate number. Authorities then saw a car matching the description traveling across the causeway from Galveston.

They were soon arrested. Inside the vehicle, law enforcement found a firearm and cash belonging to First Texas Bank. 

Jordan Johnson, 27, Houston, also pleaded guilty and is pending sentencing June 24.  

Both men have been and will remain in custody.

The FBI Violent Crime Task Force and the Houston Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Stotts is prosecuting the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 31-year-old Mexican national has admitted to conspiring with others to import approximately 25 kilograms of 100% pure meth from Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. 

Pablo Xavier Castillo Jaramillo planned to import meth from Mexico on Aug. 22, 2019, along with Edgar Eliud Villarreal Munoz, a 43-year-old Mexican national. On that date, Munoz attempted to cross the border at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge in Laredo driving a Chevrolet Silverado 1500 hauling a utility trailer. Upon his arrival, authorities conducted an inspection of the truck’s interior and found packages concealed within the door frame.

The packages were ultimately found to contain approximately 25.04 kilograms of meth.

Jaramillo admitted he was paid 10,000 pesos to build the compartments and conceal the narcotics inside Munoz’s vehicle.

Munoz pleaded guilty Nov. 4, 2019, admitting he expected to be paid $5,000 for importing and transporting the narcotics inside the vehicle.

U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will set sentencing at a later date. At that time, both men face up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.

Jaramillo and Munoz have been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Border Patrol and Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Yoona Lim is prosecuting the case.

HOUSTON – The 24-year-old man who allegedly shot two people in December 2019 is expected to appear in federal court, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Matthew Anthony Williams is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christina Bryan today at 2 p.m. 

The Houston grand jury returned the indictment Jan. 30. Williams is charged with assaulting a federal employee with a deadly weapon and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence Dec. 28, 2019. 

If convicted, Williams faces up to 20 years in prison for assaulting a federal employee. He also faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life for discharging the firearm during the assault which must be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed. He could also be ordered to pay restitution to the victims.

The U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Houston Police Department and sheriff’s offices in Harris and Montgomery Counties. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Hanes and Heather Winter are prosecuting the case.   

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A federal jury sitting in Corpus Christi has convicted a 45-year-old Houston man for transporting an undocumented Chinese national, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick today.

The jury deliberated for approximately two hours before convicting Torrie Franklin following a one-day trial.

On Nov. 12, 2019, Franklin drove a blue four-door sedan into the primary inspection lane at the Border Patrol (BP) Checkpoint located near Falfurrias. Upon his arrival, authorities conducted a routine inspection, at which time a K-9 alerted to the trunk of the vehicle. There, they found an undocumented Chinese national.

At the time of his arrest, Franklin told authorities he had encountered the man at a gas station. Franklin claimed the Chinese national asked for a ride to Houston, despite not knowing any English. He also said the man asked to ride in the trunk as opposed to inside the vehicle.

At trial, the jury heard from the Chinese national who said that Franklin was the person who placed him inside the trunk. They also heard excerpts of Franklin’s phone calls in which he admitted his role in the offense.

The defense attempted to convince the jury that Franklin was merely a good Samaritan just providing a ride. They did not believe his claims and ultimately found him guilty as charged.

U.S. District Judge David S. Morales presided over the trial and set sentencing for May 7. At that time, Franklin faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.  

Franklin will remain in custody pending sentencing.

BP conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Neel Kapur and Barbara DePena are prosecuting the case.

HOUSTON – Two defendants charged in relation to a more than $40 million securities fraud “pump and dump” conspiracy have now been ordered to prison, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

John David Brotherton, 60, League City, pleaded guilty Feb. 12, 2019, while Charles Earl Grob, 39, Houston, admitted his guilt Dec. 5, 2018.

Today, U.S. District Judge Vanessa Gilmore imposed a 60-month sentence for Brotherton, while Grob received a sentence of 12 months.  

Brotherton and Grob were also ordered to forfeit $1.9 million and $242,907.09, respectively, and serve three years of supervised release following their sentences. The court also ordered each man to pay restitution to the victims of the fraud. The amount will be determined at a later date.  

Brotherton and Grob admitted they participated in a conspiracy to commit fraud in microcap securities. During the course of the conspiracy, they obtained control of the stock of numerous companies, then “pumped up” the price of the stock through false and misleading press releases and fraudulent trading techniques. They then “dumped” their shares of stock onto the market for a significant profit.

Brotherton, who is in now in custody following violations of his conditions of release, will remain there pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Grob was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender at a later date.

Five others - Andrew Ian Farmer, 41, Thomas Galen Massey, 49, Eddie Douglas Austin Jr., 69, and Carolyn Price Austin 65, all of Houston; and Scott Russell Sieck, 61, of Winter Park, Florida, also pleaded guilty for their respective roles and will be sentenced later this year.

The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Securities and Exchange Commission and Financial Industry Regulatory Authority. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin R. Martin and Michael Chu are prosecuting the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 34-year-old citizen of Mexico has pleaded guilty to importing a large quantity of marijuana into the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

On Nov. 30, 2019, Juan Antonio Hernandez-Zapata attempted to enter into the United States in a commercial tractor trailer at the World Trade Bridge in Laredo. There, a K-9 alerted to the possible presence of narcotics. Following a subsequent x-ray examination, authorities located 214 bundles in his trailer which tested positive for marijuana.

The drugs weighed approximately 5,360 pounds (approximately 2.5 tons) and have a street value of over $1 million.

Sentencing will be set before U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana at a later date. At that time, Hernandez-Zapata faces up to life in federal prison and a possible $10 million maximum fine.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day is prosecuting the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 32-year-old Laredo man has entered a guilty plea to conspiring to transport undocumented aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. 

On Nov. 12, 2019, Roy Andy Olivares arrived at the Border Patrol Checkpoint located on U.S. Highway 83 north of Laredo. There, a K-9 alerted to the possible presence of concealed humans in the trailer. Authorities conducted a search and found 27 undocumented aliens, three of whom were minors.

At a hearing today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Diana Song Quiroga, Olivares admitted he knowingly attempted to smuggle the undocumented aliens past the checkpoint.

U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will impose sentencing at a later date. At that time, Olivares faces a possible 10-year prison term as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Makens is prosecuting the case. 

HOUSTON ‐ A Houston area man has entered a guilty plea to money laundering in connection with his scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA), announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. 

Robert Kaitho, 56, entered his guilty plea today before U.S. District Judge Andrew Hanen.

Kaitho applied for government assistance in reference to property damage sustained in Hurricane Harvey. In that application, he falsely represented to the SBA that he would use the disbursed funds to rehabilitate or replace the affected property. 

As a result of his misrepresentations, the SBA disbursed a federally-funded disaster loan to Kaitho for $71,100, all of which was deposited into his personal bank account. 

As part of his plea, Kaitho admitted he used the SBA funds to make unauthorized wire transfer payments, in the amounts of $10,000 and $15,000, to a mortgage company. Kaitho also acknowledged he used funds transferred into his account to make a $30,633.00 wire transfer payment to an individual located in Kenya, another unauthorized expenditure.

Judge Hanen accepted the plea today and set sentencing for June 1. At that time, Kaitho faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a $250,000 maximum possible fine. Kaitho was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.

SBA - Office of Inspector General (OIG) and the Department of Homeland Security – OIG conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Day and Charmaine Holder are prosecuting the case.

McALLEN, Texas – A 25-year-old Mexican national has entered a guilty plea to exporting ammunition from the United States to Mexico, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

On Nov. 15, 2019, Esteban Ramirez-Torres approached the southbound checkpoint at the Hidalgo Port of Entry. There, authorities noticed boxes of dog biscuits with black tape at the bottom along with bags of dog food that had been stapled shut.

Upon further inspection, they discovered 4,000 rounds of 7.62x39mm caliber ammunition and 30 AK-47 style rifle magazines hidden amongst the dog food and boxes of biscuits.

Ramirez-Torres admitted he knowingly smuggled the ammunition illegally into Mexico. He also acknowledged purchasing the dog food, tape and staples at Walmart prior to returning to Mexico.

U.S. District Judge Randy Crane accepted the plea and set sentencing for April 14. At that time, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 fine.

He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claire Nguyen is prosecuting the case.

HOUSTON – The former chief of Antigua’s Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) has pleaded guilty for his role in connection with the Stanford International Bank (SIB) Ponzi scheme.

Leroy King, 74, of Dickerson Bay, Antigua, was the last remaining defendant in the SIB scheme. Today, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice and one count of obstruction of justice for his role in obstructing the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigation into SIB. He was extradited to the United States in November 2019.

King is a dual citizen of the United States and Antigua. Beginning in approximately 2002, he served as the administrator and CEO of the FSRC, an agency of the Antiguan government. As part of his duties, he was responsible for Antigua’s regulatory oversight of Stanford International Bank Limited’s (SIBL) investment portfolio, including review of SIBL financial reports and responses to foreign regulators’ requests, such as the SEC, for information and documents about SIBL’s operations.

In or about 2005, the SEC began investigating R. Allen Stanford and Stanford Financial Group (SFG) and made official inquiries with the FSRC regarding the value and content of SIBL’s purported investments. From 2005 through February 2009, Stanford, James Davis, King and others conspired to obstruct the SEC’s investigation of SFG, SIBL and their related entities. From at least 2003 through February 2009, Stanford made regular secret corrupt payments of thousands of dollars in cash and gifts to King in order to obtain his assistance in hiding the truth about SFG and SIBL from the SEC and other regulatory agencies.

Over the course of the conspiracy, Stanford’s cash payments to King totaled approximately $520,963.87. Stanford also provided King tickets to Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston, Texas (2004) and Super Bowl XL in Detroit, Michigan (2006). Stanford also provided King with repeated flights on private jets Stanford or SFG entities owned.

King later denied the SEC’s request for help and wrote that the FSRC “had no authority to act in the manner requested and would itself be in breach of law if it were to accede to your request.” In reality, the FSRC did have this authority and failed to exercise such because of the payments and other benefits Stanford gave to King.

A federal jury found Stanford guilty in June 2012 for his role in orchestrating a 20-year investment fraud scheme in which he misappropriated $7 billion from SIB to finance his personal businesses. He is serving a 110-year prison sentence. Five others were also convicted for their roles in the scheme and received sentences ranging from three to 20 years in federal prison.

U.S. District Judge David Hittner accepted the plea today and set sentencing for April 24. At that time, King faces up to five years in federal prison and a $250,000 maximum fine on each count.

The FBI, IRS - Criminal Investigation and U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Pearson and Trial Attorney Brittain Shaw of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case.

The Justice Department extends its gratitude to the government of Antigua for its cooperation and assistance.

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.

The former chief of Antigua’s Financial Services Regulatory Commission (FSRC) has pleaded guilty for his role in connection with the Stanford International Bank (SIB) Ponzi scheme.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick of the Southern District of Texas made the announcement.

Leroy King, 74, of Dickerson Bay, Antigua, was the last remaining defendant in the SIB scheme. Today, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice and one count of obstruction of justice for his role in obstructing the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) investigation into SIB. He was extradited to the United States in November 2019.

King is a dual citizen of the United States and Antigua.  Beginning in approximately 2002, he served as the administrator and CEO of the FSRC, an agency of the Antiguan government.  As part of his duties, he was responsible for Antigua’s regulatory oversight of Stanford International Bank Limited’s (SIBL) investment portfolio, including the review of SIBL financial reports and the response to requests by foreign regulators, including the SEC, for information and documents about SIBL’s operations.

In or about 2005, the SEC began investigating R. Allen Stanford and Stanford Financial Group (SFG) and  made official inquiries with the FSRC regarding the value and content of SIBL’s purported investments.  From 2005 through February 2009, Stanford, James Davis, King and others conspired to obstruct the SEC’s investigation of SFG, SIBL and their related entities.  From at least 2003 through February 2009, Stanford made regular secret corrupt payments of thousands of dollars in cash and gifts to King in order to obtain his assistance in hiding the truth about SFG and SIBL from the SEC and other regulatory agencies.

Over the course of the conspiracy, Stanford’s cash payments to King totaled approximately $520,963.87.  Stanford also provided King tickets to both Super Bowl XXXVIII in Houston, Texas (2004) and Super Bowl XL in Detroit, Michigan (2006).  Stanford also provided King with repeated flights on private jets Stanford or SFG entities owned.

King later denied the SEC’s request for help, and he wrote that the FSRC “had no authority to act in the manner requested and would itself be in breach of law if it were to accede to your request.”  In reality, the FSRC did have this authority and failed to exercise such because of the payments and other benefits Stanford gave to King.

A federal jury found Stanford guilty in June 2012 for his role in orchestrating a 20-year investment fraud scheme in which he misappropriated $7 billion from SIB to finance his personal businesses.  He is serving a 110-year prison sentence.  Five others were also convicted for their roles in the scheme and received sentences ranging from three to 20 years in federal prison.

U.S. District Judge David Hittner of the Southern District of Texas accepted the plea today and set sentencing for April 24.  

The FBI’s Houston Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case.  Trial Attorney Brittain Shaw of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Pearson of the Southern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.

The Justice Department extends its gratitude to the government of Antigua for its cooperation and assistance.

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.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 26 year-old man has been ordered to federal prison following his convictions of receipt, possession and distribution of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Pedro Angel Garcia, Brownsville, pleaded guilty May 22, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera Jr. sentenced Garcia to 78 months for the distribution conviction. He also received 78 months for the receipt and possession counts, respectively. The sentences will all run concurrently. Garcia will then serve 35 years on supervised release following completion of his prison term, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Garcia will also be ordered to register as a sex offender.

In October 2017, authorities learned of a Facebook user who appeared to be sending child exploitative material via the social media platform. The investigation led them to an IP address and telephone number and eventually to Garcia’s residence in Brownsville.

Law enforcement executed a search warrant and seized his personal computer. Forensic analysis resulted in the discovery of approximately 29 images and one video of child pornography in Garcia’s possession.

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations-Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Task Force conducted the investigation.

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

HOUSTON – A criminal information has been filed against a 58-year-old Bryan resident for his suspected role involving wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan. K. Patrick.

James Day Burke is expected to make his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Dena H. Palermo at 2 p.m. today.

He is charged with one count of wire fraud.

Burke was employed as the bookkeeper at Rustex Inc., an oil and energy company that is headquartered in Bryan.

From approximately May 2010 to approximately August 2018, Burke allegedly made unauthorized charges on company credit cards for personal expenses.

The information alleges Burke defrauded the company out of $855,872.42 as a result of his scheme.

If convicted, he faces a possible sentence of up to 20 years in federal prison and a $250,000 maximum fine.

The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Braddock is prosecuting the case.

A criminal information is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until convicted through due process of law.

HOUSTON – A 33-year-old resident of Houston has been charged with five counts of theft of public money and five counts of issuing postal money orders without receiving payment, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Tranese Nicole Mitchell is set to appear before U.S. District Judge Dena H. Palermo this afternoon.

A federal grand jury returned the 10-count indictment Dec. 10.

Mitchell was employed as a lead sales and service clerk at the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) in Houston, according to the charges. During that time, the indictment alleges she committed the theft and improper issuance of money orders from approximately June 2018 through December 2018.

Each count of theft of public money carries a possible sentence of up to 10 years in federal prison, issuing postal money orders without receiving payment carries a possible sentence of up to five years, upon conviction. Each conviction also carries a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

USPS - Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Braddock is prosecuting the case.  

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.
A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

HOUSTON – A 31-year-old Houston resident has been sentenced for obtaining kilogram quantities of cocaine from Mexican suppliers and distributing them to various customers in the Houston area, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Chardrell Murphy pleaded guilty July 1, 2019, to possession with intent to deliver a controlled substance.  

Today, U.S. District Judge David Hittner sentenced Murphy to 262 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release.

Also sentenced today was Murphy’s girlfriend - Alexis Moten, 25, and her grandmother - Loretha Moten, 60, both of Houston. Both had previously pleaded guilty to aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Alexis Moten received a 27-month-term of imprisonment, while her grandmother, who stored the cocaine for Murphy, was ordered to serve 36 months.

At the hearings, the court heard additional testimony that detailed Murphy’s violent nature and long-term drug dealing.

Co-defendants Mark Anthony Johnson, 54, and Herberth Mauricio Torres, 24, both also of Houston, will be sentenced March 6 and 31, respectively.

On Sept. 15, 2018, authorities learned Murphy received four kilograms of cocaine from a Mexican supplier. Torres then delivered it to Loretha Moten’s house. Later, Murphy put a package into Johnson’s car.

Law enforcement conducted a traffic stop, at which time they found two kilograms of cocaine from the package Murphy had placed in the car.

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

The Houston Police Department and FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennie Basile and John M. Lewis prosecuted the case.

The case is an example of coordination between law enforcement who are part of the Houston Law Enforcement Violent Crime Initiative. The goal is to proactively fight and reduce violent crime across the Greater Houston area by targeting the region’s most violent offenders, augmenting investigative and prosecutorial efforts, and enhancing training, public awareness and education.

HOUSTON - A 45-year-old Southwest Houston man has been convicted of sexual exploitation of a child aka production of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Reginald Desean Love aka Tru admitted he recorded a video of a minor female performing oral sex on him.

In September 2017, a 15-year-old girl contacted authorities and gave them a cell phone that contained the video Love made depicting the sex act. Law enforcement conducted a search on two rooms at a local Motel 6 where they discovered another juvenile girl performing oral sex on an adult male.

Love was previously convicted in 2010 of felony indecency with a 14-year-old girl. As part of his sentence, he was ordered to register as a sex offender.  

U.S. District Judge Sim Lake accepted Love’s guilty plea today and set sentencing for April 24, 2020. At that time, he faces a minimum of 25 and up to 50 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. Upon completion of any prison term imposed, Love also faces a maximum of life on supervised release during which time the court can impose a number of special conditions designed to protect children and prohibit the use of the internet. He is also expected to have to again register as a sex offender.

Love has been and will remain in custody pending his sentencing hearing.

The Texas Department of Public Safety conducted the investigation.

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

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A federal jury has returned guilty verdicts on all counts against a 40-year-old Brownsville man for his role in trafficking more than 1000 kilograms of cocaine involving $26 million in drug proceeds, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

The jury deliberated for less than three hours before convicting Rafael Villanueva following a six-day trial.

During trial, the jury heard from approximately 21 witnesses. They detailed Villanueva’s role as head of a drug transportation group that moved cocaine from the Rio Grande Valley and on to cities throughout the United States. He had customers in Mexico who needed transportation for cocaine to areas throughout the United States, including Houston; Chicago, Illinois; Jackson, Mississippi; as well as locations in South and North Carolina, Virginia and Georgia.

He also provided transportation for drug proceeds sold throughout the United States back to the Rio Grande Valley. The commercial vehicles were outfitted with special compartments to hide the cocaine and drug proceeds.

Several witnesses testified Villanueva hired them to move the cocaine north and the drug proceeds south. Villanueva paid them by the kilogram to transport the drugs and a percentage of the drug money coming south. Fellow drug traffickers also testified Villanueva borrowed their line of transport for the cocaine when commercial drivers Villanueva hired got arrested with loads of cocaine.

One of the witnesses was a young male who was only 16 when he started working for Villanueva.

The jury also heard about the search of Villanueva’s house where authorities found five guns and numerous documents showing his lavish lifestyle as well as several Lone Star cards. 

The defense attempted to convince the jury the witnesses were all liars and authorities did poor work.

The jury ultimately found him guilty as charged for possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and conspiracy to do so, conspiracy to launder monetary instruments, bulk cash smuggling and international money laundering.

U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez Jr. presided over the trial and set sentencing for May 4, 2020. At that time, Villanueva faces up to life in prison. He will remain in custody pending that hearing.

Several others have also been convicted for their respective roles.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force operation known as La Camelia. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen Betancourt, Jody Young and Paul Marian are prosecuting the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A Laredo grand jury has charged three Honduran nationals and a young Guatamalan man for assaulting Border Patrol (BP) agents, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

The first indictment charges Walter Yobani Ordones-Chavez, 32, Jose Manuael Zapata-Suazo, 28, and Kelvin Midencio Benedict-Garcia, 32, with forcible assault on an officer Dec. 31, 2019. Two days prior, Juan Jehovany. 19, was allegedly involved in a similar violent attack.

The New Year’s Eve incident began at approximately 6:45 a.m. after BP agents discovered a group entering the United States from Mexico by illegally crossing the Rio Grande River, according to the charges. The agents then allegedly followed their tracks, leading them to a storage shed located at a private residence.

There, the three illegal aliens violently resisted three separate agents who were attempting to apprehend them, according to the charges. The three Honduran men allegedly struck the agents, attempted to flee and ignored multiple commands to halt before authorities were ultimately able to detain them.

In a separate incident and case, a BP agent was investigating a pickup truck believed to be involved in an alien smuggling attempt Dec. 29, 2019, according to the charges. The agent allegedly heard noises from the truck bed and noticed several people hiding underneath a blanket. They allegedly attempted to flee, during which time the agent was knocked to the ground.

The charges allege Cac-Calel was one of the illegal aliens in the truck and actively resisted and pushed the agent as he attempted to detain him. The agent attempted to handcuff him, but Cac-Calel continued to violently struggle, according to the charges. Cac-Calel allegedly grabbed the agent’s handcuffs and swung them at his face. He also struck his hand as the agent attempted to use his pepper spray, according to the charges.

Three of the agents sustained injuries which required treatment at a medical facility.

If convicted, Ordones-Chavez, and Benedict-Garcia face up to 20 years in prison, while Cac-Calel and Zapata face a possible eight-year-term.

The FBI and Border Patrol conducted both investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Jennifer Day is prosecuting the Cac-Calel case, while AUSA Francisco J. Rodriguez is handling the other matter.

An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence.

A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.

HOUSTON – Two Houstonians have admitted to recruiting a teenager on social media and trafficking her for sex, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.  

In 2017, Demetrius Delaan White, 28, and Deonte Danquise Bailey-Roach, 27, recruited a troubled teenager on social media. They then brought her from her home in Stephenville to Houston to engage in commercial sex acts.

For three days, they posted the minor victim on internet advertisements for commercial sex, during which time more than 300 people expressed an interest. They rented motel rooms for the sex acts, drove her to clients’ homes and took her to a truck stop. They also had her walk on Bissonnet Street, an area commonly known for an open and rampant sex trade.

To induce the minor victim into continuing to engage in the activity, both men gave her ecstasy drugs before the commercial sex acts. They also kept all the cash proceeds.

U.S. District Judge Kenneth M. Hoyt accepted the pleas and will impose sentencing April 13. At that time, White and Bailey-Roach faces up to life in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.

They have been and will remain in custody pending that hearing.   

The FBI and the Houston Police Department, both part of the Human Trafficking Rescue Alliance (HTRA), conducted the investigation.

HTRA law enforcement includes members of the Houston Police Department, FBI, Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Texas Attorney General’s Office, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Department of Labor, Department of State, Texas Alcoholic and Beverage Commission, Texas Department of Public Safety, Coast Guard and Sheriff’s Offices in Harris and Montgomery counties in coordination with District Attorney’s offices in Harris, Montgomery and Fort Bend Counties.

Established in 2004, the United States Attorney’s office in Houston formed HTRA to combine resources with federal, state and local enforcement agencies and prosecutors, as well as non-governmental service organizations to target human traffickers while providing necessary services to those that the traffickers victimized. Since its inception, HTRA has been recognized as both a national and international model in identifying and assisting victims of human trafficking and prosecuting those engaged in trafficking offenses.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kate Suh and Sebastian Edwards are prosecuting the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 32-year-old Mexican national has been ordered to federal prison after admitting he conspired to import over 50 kilograms of meth into the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Jose Ramos-Delgadillo pleaded guilty Oct. 3, 2019, to two counts – conspiracy to import and importation of meth.

Today, U.S. District Judge Diana Saldana handed him a 46-month sentence. Not a U.S. citizen, Ramos-Delgadillo is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence.

On Aug. 4, 2019, Ramos-Delgadillo arrived in Laredo at the Juarez-Lincoln International Bridge driving a Ford Escape. An initial search yielded 24 bundles of meth concealed within the tires. However, authorities also discovered an additional 19 bundles in the vehicle’s firewall.

Upon questioning, Ramos-Delgadillo claimed he was a wrestler from Guadalajara, Mexico, who was traveling to Dallas to visit a friend.

He soon admitted he knew there were narcotics in the vehicle. He expected to be paid $5,000 for transporting the drugs.

The drugs weighed a total of 53.56 kilograms with an approximate value of more than $300,000.

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day is prosecuting the case.

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 51-year-old resident of Matamoros, Tamaulipas, Mexico, has been handed a significant sentence for possession with intent to distribute 69 kilograms of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Mario Gabriel Sorcia-Quintana pleaded guilty Jan. 8, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Fernando Rodriguez sentenced Sorcia-Quintana to a total of 100 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following the prison sentence.

On July 20, 2018, Quintana arrived at the Gateway port of entry in Brownsville driving a Nissan Xterra. At the time, he claimed to be en route to San Antonio with his family, including his four-year-old child, and presented travel permits for all three occupants.

He was referred to secondary inspection where authorities then discovered an unusually high-density reading of all four tires. Further investigation revealed an anomaly, resulting in the discovery of a rectangular metal compartment found inside the tire. Authorities then drilled a hole in it and found a white powdery substance which tested positive for the properties of meth.

The packages were not properly sealed. Therefore, authorities called a hazmat team for assistance in extracting the narcotics due to the potential exposure of the contents in the metal compartments.

They removed a total of 69.10 kilograms from all four tires which was found to have an approximate value of $5 million.

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

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elena Llanos-Salinas prosecuted the case.

McALLEN, Texas – The 41-year-old female leader of an alien smuggling organization has been ordered to prison in a conspiracy to transport undocumented aliens and for illegally re-entering the country, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Brenda Yadira Gamez-Castaneda aka Guera La Trailera, of Mexico, pleaded guilty Oct. 8, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez handed Gamez-Castaneda a 120- month term of imprisonment for the conspiracy. She also received 24 months  for illegal re-entry to run concurrently for a total of 10 years. Not a U.S. citizen, she is expected to face removal proceedings following her incarceration.

The court enhanced her sentence, finding she obstructed or impeded the administration of justice. Gamez-Castaneda had destroyed evidence, demanded others to do the same and instructed a co-defendant on what to say to authorities. She also attempted to flee from the country after realizing she was a target of the investigation.

While imposing the sentence, Judge Alvarez noted Gamez-Castaneda was the leader or organizer of a criminal activity that involved five or more participants or that was otherwise extensive and at least two alien smuggling cells.

Beginning on approximately May 17, 2019, Roberto Flores-Brewster utilized his property in Donna known as “the Brewster Compound” to harbor and transport undocumented aliens with Adolfo Medina-Cervantez. Flores-Brewster then transported the aliens to Gamez-Castaneda. From there, she and Silber Vazquez-Mireles would transport the undocumented aliens to additional stash houses and hotel locations where other members of the criminal enterprise would harbor them. The aliens remained there while Gamez-Castaneda coordinated with tractor trailer drivers to smuggle them beyond the South Texas Border Patrol (BP) checkpoints. 

Gamez-Castaneda was found responsible for smuggling at least 25 undocumented aliens. At least one of them was an accompanied minor, while another had been involuntarily detained. Another alien was held by coercion, threat or in connection with a demand for payment. The court also noted that she had utilized a 10-year old child to assist in the alien smuggling conspiracy at a hotel where undocumented aliens, including an unaccompanied juvenile, were being harbored. 

On Oct. 9, 2019, Vazquez-Mireles, 32, of Mexico, was ordered to serve 40 months in federal prison for his role in the smuggling ring. At the time of his sentencing, Vazquez-Mireles also received an enhancement for obstruction of justice. The court found he had placed jail calls during which he informed Gamez-Castaneda, then unindicted, to destroy evidence related to the conspiracy.

Flores-Brewster, 60, and Medina-Cervantez, 29, are set for sentencing before U.S. District Judge Alvarez March 25.  

Gamez-Castaneda has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and BP conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Redavid prosecuted the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A 49-year-old man has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of importing a large quantity of cocaine into the United States via Laredo, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Willie Earl Rucker Jr., of Memphis, Tennessee, pleaded guilty Aug. 6, 2019, to importing 500 grams or more of cocaine and conspiracy to do so.  

Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo ordered Rucker to serve 72 months in federal prison to be followed by four years of supervised release. In handing down the sentence, the court cited Rucker’s extensive criminal record, which included prior felony convictions for possession with intent to distribute cocaine, sale of cocaine and assault with intent to commit robbery with a deadly weapon. The court also noted that Rucker admitted he had transported drugs From Mexico on three prior occasions and had been working for a drug trafficking organization for a year.

On May 12, 2019, Rucker attempted to enter the United States at the Lincoln-Juarez Bridge #1 in Laredo. After a positive K-9 alert and an x-ray examination, authorities located six bundles of cocaine concealed within his vehicle’s battery. The cocaine weighed 3.421 kilograms and was valued at more than $80,000.

Rucker admitted that he planned to transport the drugs from Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, to his residence in Memphis. He expected to receive approximately 30 pounds of marijuana as payment for the job.

He was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Day prosecuted the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A Mexican national and convicted felon has been ordered to federal prison, again, after violating the terms of his supervised release, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

On Feb. 23, 2016, Jose Arrecis-Andrade, 28, was sentenced to federal prison for alien smuggling and given a three-year-term of supervised release. He was removed from the country in 2017. However, authorities found him in the United States illegally in September 2018. At that time, he was arrested on charges of aggravated sexual assault, illegally re-entering the country and for violating his supervise release. He pleaded guilty to the illegal re-entry charge March 1, 2019.

Today, Arrecis-Andrade admitted he committed the sexual assault, thereby violating the terms of his federal supervised release.

At the hearing, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo then sentenced him to 27 months for the illegal re-entry conviction. The court also revoked his supervised release and ordered he serve an additional 24 months in prison. The sentences will run consecutively for a total 51-month-term of imprisonment. Not a U.S. citizen, he again expected to face removal proceedings following his incarceration.

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

Border Patrol and Laredo Police Department conducted the investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer Day and David Fawcett prosecuted the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A husband and wife from Monterrey, Mexico, have been ordered to federal prison following their convictions of conspiracy and importing nearly $1 million in cocaine into the country, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Mario Ramirez-Gomez, 49, and his wife, Maria Gonzalez-Esparza, 42, pleaded guilty Oct. 1, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaña, who presided over the sentencing, ordered Ramirez-Gomez and Gonzalez-Esparza to serve 63 and 24 months in prison, respectively. Not U.S. citizens, they are both expected to face removal proceedings following their incarceration. At the hearing, the court heard that they had agreed to smuggle the drugs because they had both lost their jobs and were in debt.

On Aug. 3, 2019, the couple attempted to enter the United States at the Juarez–Lincoln International Bridge in Laredo. After an X-ray of their vehicle revealed anomalies, law enforcement officers searched the car and found 30 cocaine bundles hidden in secret compartments within the vehicle’s seats.

The cocaine weighed a total of 30 kilograms and had a street value of approximately $960,000.

The couple’s two minor children were riding in the car with them during the smuggling attempt.

Ramirez-Gomez and Gonzalez-Esparza both have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with assistance from Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Fawcett prosecuted the case.

CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 31-year-old Huntsville, Alabama, woman has been ordered to prison following her conviction for knowingly attempting to smuggle 20 pounds of pure meth, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Guadalupe Inostroza-Diaz pleaded guilty Sept. 26, 2019.

Today, Senior U.S. District Judge Janis Graham Jack handed Inostroza-Diaz a 70-month sentence to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court noted that even though Inostroza-Diaz had no prior criminal history and only played a minor role in the drug distribution scheme, a sentence of more than five years was appropriate for trafficking meth.

On June 21, 2019, Inostroza-Diaz drove a white Nissan Altima into the primary inspection area of the Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint near Falfurrias. An X-ray search of the vehicle revealed bundles of meth concealed within the walls of an ice chest located in the car’s trunk.

Laboratory analysis later confirmed the substance in the bundles was 100% pure meth totaling 12 kilograms with a street value of more than $919,000.

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

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of BP. Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Robert D. Thorpe Jr. and former AUSA Julie K. Hampton prosecuted the case.

LAREDO, Texas – A Laredo federal jury has convicted a 60-year-old San Antonio man for transporting two dozen illegal aliens in a hidden compartment within a moving truck, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

They deliberated for eight hours before returning the verdicts against Clarence James Lee following a one-day trial on two counts of transporting an alien.

On Sept. 26, 2019, authorities at the Bruni immigration checkpoint on Texas Highway 359 stopped a Penske truck. Lee was driving. He said he lived in San Antonio and was moving furniture to Kingsville. During the initial inspection, a K-9 detected contraband in the cargo area of the truck.

The jury heard Lee had consented to a search a search of the truck. Soon after, law enforcement discovered 24 illegal aliens hidden behind a false wall built into the truck. Furniture and appliances were blocking the door, leaving those inside with no means of escape. Upon their release, the aliens were sweating profusely, gasping for air and immediately asked for water.

A temperature reading inside the truck measured 94 degrees.

At trial, the jury heard Lee was to be paid cash and narcotics to drive the truck from Laredo to Kingsville. Testimony revealed he admitted he thought it contained contraband. However, Lee claimed he did not know people were in the back of the truck until he received a call about eight minutes prior to arriving at the checkpoint. He still decided to continue his trip.

The defense attempted to argue that Lee thought he was smuggling narcotics. Therefore, he did not have the required intent to be convicted of alien smuggling. The jury was not convinced and found him guilty.

Two others in a scout car pleaded guilty for their roles in the scheme. 

U.S. District Judge Diana Saldaňa presided over the trial and will set sentencing at a later date. At that time, Lee faces up to five years in prison and well as a maximum $250,000 fine.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Harrison and Jennifer Day are prosecuting the case.

McALLEN, Texas – A federal jury found a Texas rheumatologist guilty today for his role in a $325 million health care fraud scheme in which he falsely diagnosed patients with life-long diseases and treated them with toxic medications on the basis of that false diagnosis. 

Following a 25-day trial, Jorge Zamora-Quezada M.D., 63, of Mission, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, seven counts of health care fraud and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice. 

“The conduct in this case was heinous. Dr. Zamora-Quezada falsely diagnosed vulnerable patients, including the young, elderly and disabled, with life-long diseases requiring invasive treatments that those patients did not in fact need,” said Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s guilty verdict shows that the Department of Justice will work tirelessly to protect the public from unscrupulous medical professionals who greedily line their own pockets at the expense of their patients’ health and safety.”

“As evidenced by the length of trial, this was a massive investigation into one of the worst medical fraudsters,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. “Unnecessary medical tests to create millions of dollars of false billing is as bad as it gets. Patients were put through unneeded anxiety and pain so the doctor could make millions. He won’t need it where he’s headed.”

“The guilty verdict against Dr. Zamora-Quezada ensures he will pay a steep price for his unthinkably callous and cruel criminal conduct, committed for the sheer sake of greed,” said Special Agent in Charge CJ Porter of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG). “The abhorrent conduct in this case, which resulted in harm to unsuspecting patients, only serves to deepen the dedication of HHS-OIG agents and our law enforcement partners to pursue, prosecute and exclude bad actors in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.”

“Rarely do we see such an egregious case of health care fraud, where so many patients received years of unnecessary and debilitating treatments, which were rendered out of sheer greed,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office. “The FBI is committed to seeking justice for each and every victim who suffered immeasurable harm at the hands of these defendants. The public deserves to be able to seek medical care without fear of being falsely diagnosed and given toxic medications they don’t need. We will relentlessly pursue those who would enrich themselves at the expense of those most vulnerable in our community.”

According to the evidence presented at trial, Zamora-Quezada falsely diagnosed a large number of patients with rheumatoid arthritis - a lifelong, incurable disease - and treated them with toxic, medically unnecessary medications like chemotherapy drugs on the basis of that false diagnosis. Many patients, including patients as young as 13, suffered physical and emotional harm as a result of the false diagnoses, chemotherapy injections, hours’ long intravenous infusions and other excessive, repetitive and profit-driven medical procedures. The evidence further showed that to obstruct and mislead a federal grand jury investigation, Zamora-Quezada falsified medical records. Zamora-Quezada operated medical practices throughout South Texas and San Antonio. He traveled to his various offices on his private jet and in his Maserati. 

U.S. District Judge Ricardo Hinojosa presided over the trial and set sentencing for March 27.

The Rio Grande Valley Health Care Fraud Task Force, which includes the FBI, HHS-OIG, Texas HHS-OIG and Texas Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, conducted the investigation with assistance from the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant Chiefs Adrienne Frazior and Jacob Foster and Trial Attorneys Rebecca Yuan and Emily Gurskis of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Villanueva of the Southern District of Texas. Trial Attorney Kevin Lowell of the Fraud Section initially handled the prosecution.

The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force. Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for nearly $19 billion.  In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.

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 federal jury found a Texas rheumatologist guilty today for his role in a $325 million health care fraud scheme in which he falsely diagnosed patients with life-long diseases and treated them with toxic medications on the basis of that false diagnosis. 

Following a 25-day trial, Jorge Zamora-Quezada, M.D., 63, of Mission, Texas, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud, seven counts of health care fraud, and one count of conspiracy to obstruct justice.  Zamora-Quezada is expected to be sentenced on March 27, 2020, by U.S. District Judge Ricardo Hinojosa of the Southern District of Texas, who presided over the trial.

“The conduct in this case was heinous.  Dr. Zamora-Quezada falsely diagnosed vulnerable patients, including the young, elderly, and disabled, with life-long diseases requiring invasive treatments that those patients did not in fact need,” said Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s guilty verdict shows that the Department of Justice will work tirelessly to protect the public from unscrupulous medical professionals who greedily line their own pockets at the expense of their patients’ health and safety.”

“As evidenced by the length of trial, this was a massive investigation into one of the worst medical fraudsters,” said. U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick of the Southern District of Texas. “Unnecessary medical tests to create millions of dollars of false billing is as bad as it gets. Patients were put through unneeded anxiety and pain so the doctor could make millions. He won’t need it where he’s headed.”

“The guilty verdict against Dr. Zamora-Quezada ensures he will pay a steep price for his unthinkably callous and cruel criminal conduct, committed for the sheer sake of greed,” said Special Agent in Charge CJ Porter of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS-OIG).  “The abhorrent conduct in this case, which resulted in harm to unsuspecting patients, only serves to deepen the dedication of HHS-OIG agents and our law enforcement partners to pursue, prosecute, and exclude bad actors in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.”

“Rarely do we see such an egregious case of health care fraud, where so many patients received years of unnecessary and debilitating treatments, which were rendered out of sheer greed,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher Combs of the FBI’s San Antonio Field Office. “The FBI is committed to seeking justice for each and every victim who suffered immeasurable harm at the hands of these defendants. The public deserves to be able to seek medical care without fear of being falsely diagnosed and given toxic medications they don’t need. We will relentlessly pursue those who would enrich themselves at the expense of those most vulnerable in our community.”

According to the evidence presented at trial, Zamora-Quezada falsely diagnosed a large number of patients with rheumatoid arthritis, a life-long, incurable disease – and treated them with toxic, medically unnecessary medications like chemotherapy drugs on the basis of that false diagnosis.  Many patients, including patients as young as 13, suffered physical and emotional harm as a result of the false diagnoses, chemotherapy injections, hours’ long intravenous infusions, and other excessive, repetitive and profit-driven medical procedures.  The evidence further showed that to obstruct and mislead a federal grand jury investigation, Zamora-Quezada falsified medical records.  Zamora-Quezada operated medical practices throughout South Texas and San Antonio.  He traveled to his various offices on his private jet and in his Maserati. 

The Rio Grande Valley Health Care Fraud Task Force, which includes the FBI, HHS-OIG, Texas HHS-OIG and Texas Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, investigated the case with assistance from the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant Chiefs Adrienne Frazior and Jacob Foster and Trial Attorneys Rebecca Yuan and Emily Gurskis of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case along with Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Villanueva of the Southern District of Texas. Trial Attorney Kevin Lowell of the Fraud Section initially handled the prosecution.

The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force.  Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 15 strike forces operating in 24 districts, has charged more than 4,200 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for nearly $19 billion.  In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.

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.  

BROWNSVILLE, Texas – A 24 year-old Mexican national who illegally resided in San Juan has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of possession of child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. Ernesto Vitela pleaded guilty May 23, 2019.  

Today, U.S. District Judge Rolando Olvera Jr. ordered Vitela to serve 78 months in federal prison and ordered he pay $27,000 in restitution for the victims. He will also serve 20 years on supervised release, during which time he will have to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. He will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment.

On or about May 9, 2018, law enforcement initiated an investigation of an IP address that was identified as sharing child pornography. That investigation led them to Vitela’s address in San Juan. On Nov. 29, 2018, agents executed a search warrant at that location and seized a cell phone and other digital devices belonging to Vitela. A forensic analysis later yielded approximately 7,844 images and 582 videos of child pornography.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations-Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Task Force conducted the investigation.

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

LAREDO, Texas – A 42-year-old resident of Monterrey, Mexico, has been sentenced to federal prison following his conviction of conspiracy with intent to distribute meth, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. 

Juan Carlos Castillo-Cantu pleaded guilty Oct. 2, 2019.  

Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo ordered him to prison for a total of 96 months. Not a U.S. citizen, Castillo-Cantu is expected to face removal proceedings following the sentence.

On July 17, 2019, Castillo-Cantu drove a Dodge Ram pickup truck to the Lincoln-Juarez Bridge Port of Entry in Laredo. A K-9 then alerted to the presence of narcotics, after which an x-ray examination revealed anomalies in all four tires. 

Ultimately, authorities removed a total of 24 bundles from aftermarket compartments in the wheels. They all tested positive for meth at a purity level of 98%. The drugs had a net weight of 69.7 kilograms.

Castillo-Cantu was to be paid $5,000 to drive the narcotics-laden truck to Dallas. There, he expected to receive specific instructions where to make final delivery of the vehicle. Someone would then remove the drugs, after which Castillo-Cantu would then drive the truck back to Mexico.

Castillo-Cantu was also supposed to recruit other drivers. However, they decided to back-out at the last minute.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Bukiewicz prosecuted the case.

McALLEN, Texas – A federal jury has returned a guilty verdict against a 45-year-old Alton man for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

The jury deliberated for approximately six hours before convicting Rosbel Garcia following a one-day trial which included seven witnesses.  

According to the testimony, authorities learned of a possible 20-kilogram cocaine transaction that would be occurring in the Houston area in January 2018. 

At trial, the jury heard from Rene Ramos III who explained that he had been previously arrested in Houston while in possession of approximately 60 pounds of marijuana belonging to Garcia in 2012. He claimed that at the time of that arrest, he was also in possession of approximately $90,000 of Garcia’s drug trafficking proceeds.

In early January 2018, Ramos claimed Garcia contacted him and told him he had to begin working for him in order to reduce that drug debt. As part of that involvement, Ramos testified he directed his wife, Christy Leigh Wells, to deliver cocaine to individuals in Houston. 

Testimony revealed Garcia traveled to Houston from the Rio Grande Valley in January 2018 along with Luby Janet Luna. Wells also testified and admitted she delivered 10 kilograms of cocaine to Luna and others Jan. 30, 2018.  

The defense attempted to convince the jury that all involved were just cons who fabricated Garcia’s involvement in the scheme. The jury disagreed and found him guilty as charged.

Wells, 42, of Cypress, previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine Nov. 28, 2018.

Luna, 33, of Mission, is a fugitive and a warrant remains outstanding for her arrest. Anyone with information about her whereabouts is asked to contact the United States Marshals at (956) 618-8025.

U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez presided over the trial and set sentencing for March 26 at 2 p.m. At that time, Garcia faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison as well as a possible $10 million fine.

Previously released on bond, Garcia was ordered into custody pending that hearing.

The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr. and M. Alexis Garcia prosecuted the case