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8 August 2023
Santa Fe Man Charged with Child Abuse in Indian CountryRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, announced today that Luis Xavier Rael made an initial appearance in federal court on an indictment charging him with abandonment and abuse of a child, assault resulting in substantial bodily injury to an individual who has not attained the age of 16 years, and assault with a dangerous weapon. Rael, 36, of Santa Fe, will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for Thursday, August 10, 2023.
According to the indictment, on January 19, 2021, Rael, a non-Indian, assaulted his stepson, John Doe, a 12-year-old Indian boy, with a belt and a tree branch because Doe failed to perform physical activities that Rael forced Doe to do as a result of Doe’s perceived misbehavior.
An indictment is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Rael faces up to 18 years in prison.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services. Assistant United States Attorney Zachary Jones is prosecuting the case.
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San Mateo Man Charged with Embezzling More Than $1.1 Million from San Francisco Law FirmRead the Press Release
SAN FRANCISCO - A federal grand jury in San Francisco indicted Jairo Tomas Santos with bank fraud, announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp. Santos was arrested on August 4, 2023, and appeared in federal court on August 7 to face the charges.
According to the indictment (CR 23-00230 WHA), filed July 25, 2023, Santos, 42, formerly of San Mateo, Calif., allegedly embezzled more than $1.1 million from his employer, a San Francisco-based law firm, where Santos worked as the office manager. According to the indictment, Santos began his embezzlement scheme no later than March 2016 and continued it through February 2023. As part of the scheme, Santos obtained checks from the victim law firm, filled out the payee line of those checks, addressing them to “Jairo Santos,” and signed each check with the signature of the law firm’s senior partner even though Santos was not authorized to do so. Santos then deposited these checks into his personal checking accounts at Wells Fargo Bank.
Between March 9, 2016, and February 2023, Santos allegedly deposited approximately 806 unauthorized checks from the victim law firm made payable to Santos into his personal checking accounts. The total value of these unauthorized deposits was approximately $1,191,683. Further, as part of the scheme to defraud, Santos made and deleted entries in the general ledger for the victim law firm that concealed the fact that the payments were made for Santos’s own use. The indictment further alleges that Santos deposited these checks from the victim law firm knowing that the payments were not authorized by the firm or its senior partner and knowing that they exceeded the amounts he was legitimately owed by the firm for his salary and expenses.
In sum, the indictment charges Santos with three counts of bank fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1344. Santos’s initial San Francisco federal district court appearance is scheduled for August 22, 2023.
An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Santos faces a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, and a fine of $1,000,000, plus restitution, if appropriate, for each violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1344. The court also may order an additional term of supervised release to begin after a prison term as part of any sentence. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.
The case is being prosecuted by the Corporate and Securities Fraud Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christiaan Highsmith is prosecuting the case, with the assistance of Elizabeth Kim. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.
santos_jairo_indictment.pdfSaint George Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Untraceable Firearms Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, SOUTH CAROLINA — Jerome Daniel Sanders, 44, of Saint George, was sentenced to 2 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to dealing privately manufactured firearms without a license and possessing a firearms silencer in violation of the National Firearms Act.
Evidence presented in court established that Sanders began advertising non-serialized privately manufactured firearms for sale online in 2020. During the investigation, ATF agents discovered that Sanders used specialized manufacturing equipment to mass-produce these untraceable firearms and then sell them without a federal firearms license. Between 2020 and 2022, Sanders listed 112 of these firearms for sale online and made several other in-person sales, including to undercover ATF agents. Sanders also sold a homemade fully functional firearms silencer to an undercover ATF agent during the investigation.
On June 3, 2023, federal agents conducted a search warrant at Sanders’ residence and recovered 35 firearms with serial numbers, 28 firearms without serial numbers, a cutting machine and drill press used to manufacture firearms, $20,000 in cash, and various other firearm manufacturing paraphernalia.
“Untraceable firearms in the hands of dangerous persons pose a significant threat to the safety of our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will investigate and prosecute those who illegally manufacture untraceable firearms and sell them for profit without a license.”
“While it is legal to build a firearm for personal use, those engaged in the business of manufacturing and selling firearms without a federal firearms license are breaking the law and threatening our public safety,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims. “Individuals conducting business in this unlawful manner often put firearms in the hands of prohibited individuals. These firearms are also almost impossible to trace, which can impact investigations involving violent gun crime.”
United States District Judge David C. Norton sentenced Sanders to 2 years in prison, to be followed by a 3-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. The Court also ordered Sanders to forfeit his proceeds, firearms, and manufacturing equipment as part of the judgment.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Low Country Violent Crime Task Force, and Dorchester County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Lietzow prosecuted the case.
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Ringleader of Group that Laundered Money Stolen from Romance Scams and Other Swindles Sentenced to Nearly 6 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
LOS ANGELES – A New York City man has been sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for leading a conspiracy that laundered money stolen from victims of romance scams and business email compromise scams, causing a total loss of nearly $1 million, the Justice Department announced today.
Okechukwu Nwofor, 32, of Brooklyn, New York, was sentenced on Monday by United States District Judge Stephen V. Wilson, who also ordered him to pay $392,296 in restitution. During Monday’s sentencing hearing, Judge Wilson described Nwofor as being the “kingpin” of the scheme as well as the “personification of evil.”
Nwofor pleaded guilty on February 21 to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
In his plea agreement, Nwofor admitted to leading a money laundering conspiracy from at least July 2018 to August 2019. Nwofor used a network of individuals who received fraudulent proceeds obtained from the victims of romance and business email compromise scams. Once the illicitly obtained funds were received, Nwofor and his co-conspirators quickly withdrawn or transferred into accounts they controlled.
To accomplish this scheme, Nwofor opened bank accounts in his name and the name of an Albany, New York-based company he founded, Juboy New Generation Inc. Using these bank accounts as well as others controlled by his co-conspirators, Nwofor regularly laundered money stolen by his co-conspirators via romance scams and business email compromise scams, which were sent to them from victims via interstate wires.
Nwofor typically charged his co-conspirators approximately 20% of the incoming funds, and then distributed a portion of the remaining funds to his accomplices and others.
The total losses in this scheme exceeded $930,000.
For example, in September 2018, a romance scam victim, who was a Pasadena resident, wired approximately $19,000 to a New York-based bank account controlled by one of Nwofor’s accomplices. Over the course of three days, this accomplice – at Nwofor’s direction – wired approximately $16,140 of the victim’s stolen money to a Nwofor-controlled bank account.
“[Nwofor] and his co-conspirators’ fraudulent conduct has left many of the victims in dire straits, including one victim’s inability to care for her disabled son, the foreclose of another’s home, and even one victim tragically taking her own life,” prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum.
Four other defendants in this case admitted their roles as money mules and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit money laundering. Three of them received probationary sentences and one awaits sentencing.
The FBI investigated this matter and previously has issued public service announcements urging the public to beware of romance scams and business email compromise scams.
Assistant United States Attorneys Ali Moghaddas of the Major Frauds Section and Andrew M. Roach of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section prosecuted this case.
Rapid City man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. The sentencing took place on August 4, 2023.
Scott Deisinger, 52, was sentenced to five years in federal prison, followed by four years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. He also forfeited his interest in three firearms and accompanying ammunition. Deisinger was indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in October of 2022. He pleaded guilty on April 14, 2023.
On August 7, 2022, Rapid City Police Department pulled over a vehicle that had been reported stolen. Deisinger was the driver and sole occupant. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement located marijuana, approximately 90 grams of methamphetamine, items indicative of drug distribution, and three firearms. Two of the firearms had been reported stolen.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, which is a local drug task force comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Deisinger was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken has sentenced a Rapid City, South Dakota, man convicted of Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The sentencing took place on August 4, 2023.
Zachary Kirschenmann, 27, was sentenced to three years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. He also forfeited his interest in firearms seized on August 1, 2022.
Kirschenmann was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person by a federal grand jury in October of 2022. He pleaded guilty on April 28, 2023.
On August 1, 2022, Rapid City Police Department stopped a vehicle driven by Zachary Kirschenmann. Officers conducted a search of the vehicle and located two firearms, a ballistics vest, several rounds of .45 caliber ammunition, a lockbox with assorted ammunition, and firearm optics. A check of the firearms located showed one of the pistols had previously been reported stolen. The two firearms were located in a backpack along with multiple forms of documentation belonging to Kirschenmann. Due to felony convictions in South Dakota, Kirschenmann is not legally allowed to possess firearms.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Unified Narcotics Enforcement Team, which is local drug task force comprised of law enforcement from the Pennington County Sheriff’s Office, Rapid City Police Department, South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, South Dakota Highway Patrol, and the South Dakota National Guard. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn N. Rich prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
Kirschenmann was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Pittsburgh Resident Pleads Guilty to Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of Possession of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
Troy D. Arnold, age 57, pleaded guilty to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville.
In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that on or about August 15, 2022, Arnold possessed material depicting the sexual exploitation of minors, including images of prepubescent minors or minors who had not attained 12 years of age.
Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for December 6, 2023. The law provides for a total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant United States Attorney Carl J. Spindler is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Troy D. Arnold.
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.justice.gov/psc.
Pittsburgh Resident Indicted on a Charge of Theft of Funds from the Social Security AdministrationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on a charge of theft of funds from the Social Security Administration, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
The one-count Indictment named Theodore George Mills, 40, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania as the sole defendant.
According to the Indictment presented to the court, from March 2012 through May 2019, Mills accessed the Social Security benefits that were legally due to his late mother, who had died in February of 2012. Over the period of the indictment, it is alleged that Mills took more than $60,000 in social security benefits to which he was not entitled.
The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 10 years in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000, and a term of supervised release of not more than 3 years; or any or all of the above. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
The Office of the Inspector General of the Social Security Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case.
An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Ontario County Man Going to Prison for Production of Child Pornography and Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Timothy Wright, 33, of Phelps, NY, who was convicted of production of child pornography and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, was sentenced to serve 240 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melissa M. Marangola and Katelyn M. Hartford, who handled the case, stated that in July 2019, Snapchat reported a cybertip to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children involving a Snapchat subscriber who uploaded two files of suspected child pornography. A subsequent investigation determined that the Snapchat subscriber was Timothy Wright. On May 18, 2020, the New York State Police executed a search warrant at Wright’s residence and seized multiple electronic devices, including a cell phone, a laptop, and a hard drive. A forensic analysis of the electronic devices uncovered approximately 8,462 images and video files of child pornography. These included a video and images of Wright sexually abusing a minor child.
On July 29, 2020, Wright provided methamphetamine to his wife and co-defendant Alicia Wright who then sold the methamphetamine to an undercover police officer. After the controlled purchase was complete, the Ontario County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at the Wrights’ residence on Bear Street in Phelps, NY. Investigators recovered approximately $10,000 in United States currency, approximately 64 grams of methamphetamine, and a digital scale. Alicia Wright was charged and convicted and sentenced to serve one year in prison.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, and Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to More Than 11 Years in Prison for Drug and Firearm CrimesRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Thomas Matthew Blankenship., 39, of Akron, Ohio, was sentenced today to 11 years and eight months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl and a quantity of methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 10, 2022, law enforcement officers served arrest warrants on Blankenship as he left a residence in the Pecks Mill area of Logan County, West Virginia. After he was placed in handcuffs, officers found approximately 95 grams of fentanyl, 11 grams of methamphetamine, and a loaded 9mm pistol on his person. Blankenship admitted that he intended to distribute the drugs, and that he possessed the pistol in order to protect himself, the drugs, and any money he made from selling the drugs.
Blankenship has a long criminal history that includes nine prior felony convictions, including for felonious assault, improperly discharging a firearm at or into a habitation, tampering with evidence, trafficking in heroin, felon in possession of a firearm, and failure to comply with an order or signal of a police officer.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the West Virginia State Police and the Logan County Sheriff’s Office.
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-197.
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North Carolina Gang Investigators Association Recognizes District Employee and Community Organization for Their WorkRead the Press Release
CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Dena J. King announced that a U.S. Attorney’s Office employee and a community organization in Asheville were recognized by the North Carolina Gang Investigators Association (NCGIA) today, at the annual Gangs Across the Carolinas conference in Winston-Salem.
The NCGIA is an association of law enforcement and criminal justice professionals, dedicated to the prevention of gang-related activity within the state of North Carolina. Each year, NCGIA hosts the Gang Free North Carolina (GFNC) Awards, to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of law enforcement personnel, community programs, and criminal justice professionals in the Carolinas for their work in their field.
This year, the NCGIA recognized Shirley Rutledge who works as a Victim Witness Coordinator in the U.S. Attorney’s Office and is responsible for providing services to victims and witnesses of federal crimes. Ms. Rutledge is the recipient of the NCGIA’s Civilian of the Year Award, in recognition of her exemplary work with the Emergency Witness Assistance Program (EWAP). The program provides emergency services and assistance to witnesses and helps them participate in the prosecution of federal cases. As part of her duties, Ms. Rutledge works to ensure that federal witnesses receive the support and services they need throughout the litigation process.
“Shirley is a dedicated public servant whose work with witnesses is vital to the successful prosecution of federal cases,” said U.S. Attorney King. “Shirley has a thorough knowledge of the EWAP program and always goes the extra mile to ensure that witnesses are treated fairly and respectfully and they are afforded all the protections and services they need to help federal prosecutors with their cases. Shirley’s skills are invaluable to my Office and to law enforcement, and her work enables us to continue to make cases against the most violent offenders and hold criminals accountable for their actions.”
The NCGIA also recognized Keynon Lake and his organization “My Daddy Taught Me That” (MDTMT), for its work with young males in the greater Asheville area. MDTMT is a youth development program designed to support young men through advocacy, education, and mentoring. The program focuses on helping adolescent males to transition successfully into adulthood by cultivating and developing strong interpersonal skills, good decision-making, acceptance of responsibility, and accountability for their actions.
“Mr. Lake and his organization provide important youth intervention and development services to underserved communities in Asheville,” said U.S. Attorney King. “I want to thank Mr. Lake for his outstanding work in the area of youth and community development and violence prevention. His work with young people complements law enforcement efforts to increase the health, safety and well-being of those we serve, and fulfil our mission to keep communities strong and thriving.”
Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim Witness Assistance Program can be found here.
New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DANQUELL MILLER, age 43, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 3, 2023 to one count of possession a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c). He will face a sentence of not less than five years and not more than life in prison, a fine of not more than $250,000.00 dollars, a term of supervised release of not more than 5 years, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to public records, MILLER, was apprehended by New Orleans Police Department officers after a foot chase where he discarded a firearm and several types of illegal narcotics.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr. of the Narcotics Unit.
Navajo Man Pleads Guilty to Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced today that Marc Clark pled guilty to second degree murder. Clark, 46, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled.
A federal grand jury indicted Clark on Nov. 17, 2021. According to court records, Clark drove with three others, including John Doe, also an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, to a gas station in Shiprock so that John Doe could fill up a gas can. After the group parked the vehicle, John Doe and Clark got out and John Doe entered the store to pay for gas. While John Doe was inside, Clark began arguing with John Doe’s girlfriend, who was in the rear seat of the vehicle. As the argument escalated, Clark unsuccessfully attempted to pull John Doe’s girlfriend out of the car. During the struggle, Clark slapped and punched her multiple times through the open window. In response to the assault, the driver of the vehicle drove away, leaving Clark in the parking lot. When John Doe walked out of the store, he approached Clark, and the two men began talking. As they were talking, Clark drew a knife from his pocket and suddenly and without warning stabbed John Doe in the neck.
John Doe was taken to the trauma care unit at the Northern Navajo Medical Center, where he passed away. Clark was apprehended by the Navajo Police Department at a laundromat near the gas station. The knife he had stabbed John doe with was on his person at the time.
Under the terms of the plea agreement, Clark faces between 23 and 27 years in prison.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew J. McGinley and Paul J. Mysliwiec are prosecuting the case.
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Myrtle Beach Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
FLORENCE, SOUTH CAROLINA —Troy Benjamin Bittner, 54, of Myrtle Beach, has pleaded guilty in federal court to wire fraud and filing a false tax return.
Evidence obtained in the investigation revealed that from November 2020 to December 2021, during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bittner was employed as a general manager at the Carolina Pines RV Resort in Conway, South Carolina. During that time, when it was not uncommon for guests to cancel reservations, he fraudulently generated $828,516.00 in customer refunds that were neither authorized nor requested by guests for completed reservations. After generating the fraudulent refunds, Bittner then wired the refunds to his personal financial accounts. In addition, on February 27, 2022, Bittner electronically filed with the IRS a 2021 Form 1040 in which he substantially understated his total income for calendar year 2021, resulting in a tax loss of $270,686.00.
Bittner faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. He also faces a fine of up to $250,000 or the greater of twice the gross gain or gross loss of the offense, restitution, and 3 years of supervision to follow the term of imprisonment. United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III accepted the guilty plea and will sentence Bittner after receiving and reviewing a sentencing report prepared by the U.S. Probation Office.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service (USSS), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Hummel is prosecuting the case.
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Multiple People Indicted for Meth TraffickingRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, KAN. – A federal grand jury in Kansas City returned an indictment charging multiple people for their alleged involvement in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine within the state of Kansas and elsewhere between February 2020 and July 2023.
According to court documents, Jose Roman, 43, Marcos Valencia Jr, 32, Ezequil Castro, 37, Juan Gonzalez (all of Kansas City, Kansas), Manuel Alvarez, 28, of Seneca, Manuel Faudoa, 23, of Dodge City, and Gerardo Sierra-Martinez, 21, of Kansas City, Missouri, are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Roman is also charged with five counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and one count of money laundering.
Sierra-Martinez is charged with two counts of money laundering for allegedly sending money wire transfers totaling $55,500 to a person in Mexico City, Mexico in order to promote unlawful activity. He is also charged with one count of distribution of methamphetamine.
Gonzalez and Faudoa are charged with two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, and Alvarez is charged with one count of distribution of methamphetamine.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Jackson County, Missouri Drug Task Force, the Kansas City, Missouri Police Department, the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Nebraska Highway Patrol, and the Midwest High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Program are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Trent Krug is prosecuting the case.
OCDETF Strike Force Cases
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. The specific mission of the OCDETF Kansas City Metro Strike Force is to disrupt and dismantle major criminal organizations and subsidiary organizations, including criminal gangs, transnational drug cartels, racketeering organizations, and other groups engaged in illicit activities that present a threat to public safety and national security and are related to the illegal smuggling and trafficking of narcotics or other controlled substances, weapons, humans, or the illegal concealment or transfer of proceeds derived from such illicit activities in the Western District of Missouri and District of Kansas. The OCDETF Kansas City Metro Strike Force is comprised of agents and officers from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Kansas City, Missouri, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the United States Marshal Service (USMS), the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Missouri (USAO-WDMO), the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Kansas (USAO-KS), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Internal Revenue Service/Criminal Investigation Division (IRS/CID), the United States Secret Service (USSS), and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Kansas.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Montgomery Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Ammunition Used During Shooting at a FuneralRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Alabama – On August 7, 2023, a federal judge sentenced 42-year-old Gerald Dyron Little, from Montgomery, Alabama, to 120 months in prison for illegally possessing ammunition he used during a shooting at a funeral, announced United States Attorney Sandra J. Stewart. In addition to the ten-year sentence, the judge also ordered that Little serve three years of supervised release following his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records and evidence presented during his March 2023 trial, on June 26, 2021, Little caused a disruption during a memorial service in Fort Deposit, Alabama, and was asked to leave. Little returned later while graveside services were ongoing at a nearby cemetery and, while still in his vehicle, began arguing with family members. The argument escalated and Little fired a handgun from the open window of the vehicle. Bullets struck four funeral attendees including the brother of the deceased, who died from his injuries. Forensic evidence proved that the shell casings recovered from the scene came from ammunition possessed by Little during the shooting. Little has a previous felony conviction and is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm or ammunition. State charges related to the shooting are pending.
“It goes without saying that mourners should not have to fear gun violence when they gather to honor and remember a loved one,” stated United States Attorney Stewart. “It is my hope that this prosecution will serve as a reminder that there is no place in our communities for actions like those Little took. My office is committed to ensuring that that those who possess firearms and ammunition unlawfully, especially those who do so in a way that causes harm to others, are held accountable.”
“This prohibited person showed total disregard for the law and committed an inhumane act of violence against an innocent group of grieving people,” stated Special Agent in Charge Marcus Watson with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “Thanks to the hard work and dedication of the men and women of the ATF and our valued law enforcement partners in their efforts to confront violent crime. We will continue to work collaboratively and tirelessly to keep our communities safe from people who endanger our neighborhoods.”
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Fort Deposit Police Department investigated this case, with assistance from the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences, and the United States Marshals Service. Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon W. Bates, Joel Feil, and Stephen K. Moulton prosecuted the case.
Missouri Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Prison on Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. on Tuesday sentenced a man from Charleston, Missouri to 100 months in prison for selling methamphetamine four times.
Jonathan L. McCatrey, 32, pleaded guilty in April to four counts of distributing methamphetamine. He admitted selling the drug to an undercover Missouri State Highway Patrol sergeant on four occasions in February and March of 2022 in a parking lot in Charleston. McCatrey sold about one-quarter pound of methamphetamine on the second occasion and about one-half pound each the third and fourth time he met the sergeant, his plea agreement says.
The case was investigated by the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force, the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Willis prosecuted the case.
Minneapolis Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Minneapolis man has been sentenced to 129 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, in August 2021, officers with the Minneapolis Police Department received information that Deandre Lashawn Robinson, 31, was dealing narcotics and was in possession of a firearm. Officers conducted surveillance and saw Robinson engage in numerous hand-to-hand transactions from his vehicle. On August 11, 2021, officers arrested Robinson on an outstanding warrant. Inside Robinson’s vehicle, officers found a Smith & Wesson M&P Shield .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, cocaine, and MDMA pills. During the incident, Robinson was able to conceal a handful of M30 fentanyl pills. While in the backseat of the squad vehicle, Robinson swallowed the pills. Officers administered Narcan and brought him to the hospital. Robinson was treated and ultimately released.
According to court documents, officers later located Robinson as well as a vehicle he had rented. Officer obtained a search warrant for the vehicle and found plastic baggies containing powder cocaine and approximately 1,000 fentanyl pills. Officers also found a privately made firearm, or “ghost gun,” between the passenger seat cushion and the seat cover.
On April 19, 2023, Robinson pleaded guilty to two counts of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl. Robinson was sentenced today in U.S. District Court before Judge Eric C. Tostrud.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys David P. Steinkamp and Justin A. Wesley prosecuted the case.
Minneapolis Felon Sentenced to 57 Months for Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has been sentenced to 57 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.
According to court documents, on November 28, 2022, Minneapolis Police officers responded to a call that a person at 19 Bar, located near downtown Minneapolis, had pulled out a gun after being asked to leave. When officers arrived, several people pointed at a man, who was later identified as Conell Walter Harris, 29. Harris resisted arrest and tried to reach into the pocket of his hooded sweatshirt. Officers recovered a stolen .45 caliber Glock model 30 pistol from Harris’ pocket. Officers spoke to bar employees and customers and learned that Harris had become upset after an employee asked to see his identification, which Harris refused to show. The employee then asked Harris to leave the bar. Harris became combative and pulled out a pistol. An employee attempted to deescalate the situation but Harris became more aggressive and made multiple threatening statements. Harris then left for a short time but returned to the bar before law enforcement arrived.
On April 26, 2023, Harris pleaded guilty to one count of felon in possession of a firearm. He was sentenced earlier today by Senior Judge David S. Doty.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Minneapolis Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Samantha H. Bates prosecuted the case.
Michigan Man Sentenced to 27 Months’ Imprisonment for Crack Cocaine Distribution and Unlawful Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on August 7, 2023, Van Vincent Thomas, 41, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge William K. Sessions III to a sentence of 27 months’ imprisonment followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Thomas previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon.
According to court records, in January and February 2022, Van Vincent Thomas conspired with co-defendant Jonathan Arnold to distribute cocaine base in the Chittenden County, Vermont, area. In March 2022, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) obtained and executed a search warrant at a motel in Shelburne, Vermont, where Thomas had been staying. During execution of the search warrant, HSI agents recovered a Ruger Redhawk .44 caliber revolver with an obliterated serial number belonging to Thomas, along with over 70 grams of cocaine base, over $40,000 in cash, and 43 rounds of ammunition. Prior to possessing the Ruger Redhawk, Thomas was convicted in 2017 in the Chittenden District Court of Vermont for felony distribution of cocaine base.
United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, the Milton Police Department, Burlington Police Department, Vermont State Police, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne Smith, Joseph Perella, and Kimberly Ang. Mr. Thomas was represented by Avi Springer, Esq., and Assistant Federal Public Defender Sara Puls.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psn.
Massachusetts Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute More Than 20 Pounds of FentanylRead the Press Release
CONCORD – A Massachusetts man was sentenced in federal court in Concord for drug trafficking, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces.
Johan M. Rodriguez, 37, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante to 60 months in prison. On March 28, 2023, Rodriguez plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
“The defendant traveled into New Hampshire for the sole purpose of selling more than twenty pounds of fentanyl,” said U.S. Attorney Young. “The magnitude of harm this quantity of fentanyl could have caused the citizens of New Hampshire if it had reached the streets is unfathomable, and for that the defendant will be imprisoned for a lengthy period of time. The tireless efforts of local, state, and federal law enforcement officers safeguarded countless members of our communities from the poison the defendant was intending to pollute into our communities.”
“Johan Rodriguez headed to New Hampshire intending to sell an alarming amount of fentanyl,” said Christopher DiMenna, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Thankfully, the FBI’s Major Offender Task Force stopped him before he could flood our streets with this poison. Today’s sentence removes Rodriguez from our community and sends a strong message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will do everything in our power to identify and bring to justice drug dealers who seek to profit from the misery of others.”
On September 26, 2022, Rodriguez took a rideshare from Lawrence, Massachusetts to a residence in Dover to deliver approximately ten kilograms of fentanyl for a Lawrence-based drug supplier. Law enforcement surveilled Rodriguez as he removed a toolbox and tool bag from the vehicle’s trunk and carried them to the door of the residence. A search of the toolbox resulted in the seizure of approximately ten kilograms of fentanyl, which was separated into individual bundles ready for distribution.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Hampshire Major Offender Task Force led the investigation. The Strafford County Sheriff ‘s Office’s Problem Solving Oriented Policing Unit, the Rockingham County Sheriff’s Office’s Drug Task Force, and the Dover Police Department provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis prosecuted the case.
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Manderson Man Indicted for MurderRead the Press Release
RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted a Manderson, South Dakota, man for Second Degree Murder.
Sequoyah Mark West, Jr., age 29, was indicted in June of 2023. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on August 4, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in custody and/or a $250,000 fine, three years of supervised release, and a $100 assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
In April of 2023, at Manderson, West killed a man by beating and strangling him.
The charge is merely an accusation and West is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
This matter is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court.
The investigation is being conducted by the Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth is prosecuting the case.
West was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial. A trial date has not been set.
Man Sentenced to over 15 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Dozens of Kilograms of Fentanyl and Methamphetamine from Mexico into IndianapolisRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS- Tyler Sanders, 41, of Indianapolis, Indiana, has been sentenced to 183 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, in February of 2019, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents became aware of a large drug trafficking operation in Indianapolis that was responsible for transporting drug proceeds to Mexico. On April 5, 2019, HSI agents conducting surveillance of the residence saw Sanders load a Chevrolet Suburban with large, black, plastic trash bags. Sanders left the residence while driving the Suburban.
IMPD officers conducted a traffic stop of the Suburban for speeding along Massachusetts Avenue. Upon obtaining a positive K-9 alert on the vehicle, officers located the black plastic trash bags in the rear of the vehicle. Inside the plastic bags, officers located smaller, plastic bags containing a total of 33.51 kilograms of methamphetamine and 3.98 kilograms of plastic wrapped “bricks” that tested positive for fentanyl.
U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers, R. Sean Fitzgerald, Special Agent in Charge, HSI Chicago, Michael Gannon, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Indianapolis Field Office, Indiana State Police Superintendent, Douglas Carter, and IMPD Police Chief, Randal Taylor made the announcement.
“We know that a majority of the fentanyl and meth plaguing our streets ultimately comes from international cartels operating across the southern border,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers. “Cutting off suppliers who are responsible for selling and transporting drugs from Mexican cartels is a priority of federal law enforcement. We, alongside HSI and DEA, are committed to weeding out these offenders and making an example of their criminal behavior with serious federal prison sentences.”
Homeland Security Investigations, Drug Enforcement Administration, Indiana State Police, and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge, James R. Sweeney II. Judge Sweeney also ordered that Sanders be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years following his release from federal prison and pay a $2,000 fine.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Peter A. Blackett, who prosecuted this case.
According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage. One kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. 6 out of 10 illegal fentanyl tablets sold on U.S. streets now contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug.
One Pill Can Kill: Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of death in the United States. Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late.
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Local man flees shooting and lands in prisonRead the Press Release
CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 27-year-old Falfurrias resident has been ordered to federal prison for illegally possessing firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Johnny Rey Garza pleaded guilty April 26.
Today, U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos ordered Garza to serve 70 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release.
On March 10, 2022, law enforcement received multiple calls reporting theft of a firearm and shots fired at two different residences, both involving Garza. Upon responding to the shooting, they observed a man with a wound to the right foot and left arm. The victim identified Garza as the shooter and the person who stole his pickup truck.
The vehicle matching the description of the victim’s truck was involved in a accident near Falfurrias. Law enforcement arrived at that scene and observed Garza exit the truck with a handgun in his hand. He then fled. Authorities pursued but ultimately lost sight of him.
They then deployed a drone which Garza attempted to shoot as it tracked his whereabouts. A brief struggle ensued, but law enforcement was eventually able to apprehend him and take him into custody.
They soon located the firearm in a fresh dirt mound. They identified it as the stolen weapon from the calls reported earlier that evening.
As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition per federal law.
Garza 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with assistance from Falfurrias Police Department, Brooks County Sheriff’s Office and Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Dunn prosecuted the case.
Local drug dealer admits to selling “China White”Read the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – A 38-year-old resident of Laredo has entered a guilty plea to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
On May 26, authorities executed a search warrant at Jose Pedro Garcia’s residence. At that time, they found multiple small plastic baggies, each containing various types of suspected narcotics. Authorities seized, separated, weighed and ultimately identified them as heroin, meth, cocaine base and fentanyl.
Garcia had been selling drugs for approximately 10 years and had sold meth, crack cocaine and “China White” aka fentanyl. Garcia admitted he started with cocaine, but moved on to fentanyl because it gave people a stronger high and was more popular. He had color coded the bags so he could differentiate between the drugs.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will impose sentencing Nov. 7. At that time, Garcia faces a minimum of five and up to 40 years in prison as well as a maximum $5 million fine. Garcia will remain in custody pending that hearing.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Customs and Border Protection, Border Patrol and Laredo Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian Bajew is prosecuting the case.
The case was prosecuted as part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF is the largest anti-crime task force in the country. OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found on the Department of Justice’s OCDETF webpage.
More information on the dangers of fentanyl can be found on the DEA’s website. #OnePillCanKill
Leader of Drug Trafficking Organization Responsible for Trafficking More Than 5,000 Kilograms of Cocaine Sentenced to PrisonRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that CAMILO ENRIQUEZ-NUNEZ, a/k/a “Viejo,” was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer to 25 years in prison for trafficking at least 5,000 kilograms of cocaine. ENRIQUEZ-NUNEZ previously pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “My Office is dedicated to holding drug kingpins like Enriquez-Nunez accountable. Thanks to our partners at the DEA and the prosecutors of this Office, more than one ton of cocaine was seized before it could hit the streets, and this top cocaine trafficker faces years in prison.”
According to the Superseding Indictment and statements made in court proceedings and filings:
From approximately 2019 through 2022, ENRIQUEZ-NUNEZ was the leader of a drug trafficking organization that transported between 5,000 and 10,000 kilograms of cocaine from Puerto Rico to New York, New Jersey, and Florida. ENRIQUEZ-NUNEZ laundered at least $10 million of proceeds from his drug trafficking organization and personally made millions of dollars in profits.
In September 2021, law enforcement agents seized a shipment of approximately 920 kilograms of cocaine that ENRIQUEZ-NUNEZ had transported from Puerto Rico for distribution in the New York area. A photograph of the seized cocaine is below:
In July 2022, law enforcement agents arrested ENRIQUEZ-NUNEZ in Puerto Rico and seized approximately 338 kilograms of cocaine, $750,000 in drug proceeds, and four assault rifles belonging to him. A photograph of those seized items is below:
ENRIQUEZ-NUNEZ has a prior federal cocaine trafficking conviction and engaged in this cocaine trafficking while on federal supervised release following his prior conviction.
While imposing today's sentence, Judge Engelmayer described the conduct as drug trafficking on an “epic, steroidal level.”
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In addition to the prison term, ENRIQUEZ-NUNEZ, 43, of Puerto Rico, was sentenced to five years of supervised release.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Mr. Williams also thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Puerto Rico for their assistance in the case.
The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Samuel P. Rothschild, Kevin Mead, and Marguerite B. Colson are in charge of the prosecution.
Lancaster Man Arrested on Multiple Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Christopher Gostick, 29, of Lancaster, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with attempted production, receipt, and possession of child pornography, which carry a minimum penalty of 25 years in prison, a maximum of 50 years, and a fine of $250,000.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Douglas A. C. Penrose, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, in June 2023, a nine-year-old female, Minor Victim 1 (MV-1), disclosed to her family that Gostick had kissed her on the lips. MV-1’s father and Gostick’s brother confronted Gostick regarding the incident and took possession of two cellphones belonging to Gostick. A review of the cellphones recovered pictures of Gostick kissing MV-1, a video of MV-1 using a bathroom, that Gostick surreptitiously recorded, commercially available child pornography, including images involving prepubescent minors, as well as a video recording of a Snapchat conversation between a prepubescent female and an adult male user, which appears to be Gostick. During the Snapchat conversation, the male user directs the prepubescent female to send him a sexually explicit video. Gostick has a prior conviction for Attempted Possessing a Sexual Performance by a Child Under Age 16, and is a Level 1 registered sex offender.
The defendant made an initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael J. Roemer and is being held pending a detention hearing on July 27, 2022.
The criminal complaint is the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Scarpino, and the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Joseph Gramaglia.
The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
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KC Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of Child Victim, Distributing Video of Abuse OnlineRead the Press Release
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to recording his sexual abuse of a seven-year-old victim and sharing a video of the abuse online.
Jeffrey A. Knight, 32, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to one count of producing child pornography.
By pleading guilty today, Knight admitted that he used his iPhone to create an image and two video recordings of his sexual abuse of the child victim on Feb. 2, 2020. Knight then distributed one of those videos over the internet.
Knight also admitted that he sexually abused the child victim on multiple occasions until April 2022.
Knight has been involved in the trafficking and possession of child pornography since at least 2013. He routinely used messaging applications, such as Telegram, to send and receive child pornography from other individuals over the internet. He also paid money to join online groups that focused on the trafficking of child pornography, and engaged in the trafficking of child pornography with other members of those online groups.
Knight uploaded hundreds of images and videos of child pornography to his online storage accounts, including Google and Dropbox, from 2013 until his arrest on Feb. 3, 2023. Knight was in possession of hundreds of images and videos of child pornography at the time of his arrest.
A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth W. Borgnino. It was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.
Project Safe Childhood
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."
Justice Department Files Sexual Harassment Lawsuit Against Georgia-Based Rental Property Owners and ManagerRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today that it has filed a Fair Housing Act lawsuit against Iraj Shambayati and several other defendants alleging that Shambayati sexually harassed and retaliated against female tenants at residential properties he has owned or managed in Savannah, Georgia.
The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Georgia, alleges that since at least 2008, Shambayati has made repeated and unwelcome sexual comments and advances to female tenants, inappropriately touched their bodies without their permission, entered their homes without their permission or knowledge, requested sexual acts from them, offered them rental benefits in exchange for sex and took retaliatory actions against female tenants who rejected his sexual advances. The complaint also alleges that his son Daniel Shambayati, Akbar Keshavarz, 1511 Rosewood LLC and IDHD Properties LLC are vicariously liable for Iraj Shambayati’s discriminatory conduct, because he acted as their agent when he sexually harassed tenants at properties in which they had an ownership interest.
“Landlords and other housing providers who abuse their positions by sexually harassing tenants violate the Fair Housing Act,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This lawsuit sends the message that the Justice Department will take concrete action to stop this illegal conduct.”
“Tenants have a right to fair treatment – and it’s the law,” said U.S. Attorney Jill E. Steinberg for the Southern District of Georgia. “We will not tolerate unlawful discrimination, harassment or abuse.”
The lawsuit seeks monetary damages to compensate persons harmed by the alleged harassment, civil penalties to vindicate the public interest and a court order barring future discrimination.
Individuals who believe that they may have been victims of sexual harassment or other types of housing discrimination at rental dwellings managed by Iraj Shambayati, or who have other information that may be relevant to this case, can contact the Justice Department’s housing discrimination tip line at 1-833-591-0291. Select 1 for English, and select option number 2, then option number 02 to leave a message. Individuals may also e-mail the Justice Department at fairhousing@usdoj.gov or submit a report online.
The Justice Department launched its Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative in October 2017. The department’s initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorneys’ offices across the country. The initiative seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers or other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative, the department has filed 33 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $10.8 million for victims of such harassment.
The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on sex, race, color, religion, national origin, disability and familial status. More information about the Civil Rights Division and the laws it enforces is available at www.justice.gov/crt.
The complaint contains allegations of unlawful conduct. The allegations must be proven in federal court.
ComplaintJackson Woman Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for Conspiracy to Commit Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson woman was sentenced to 27 months in prison for conspiracy to commit bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Acting Special Agent in Charge Edward Owens of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans.
According to court documents, Valerie Austin, 37, conspired with two other individuals to obtain bank loans through fraudulent means. Austin used false names and social security numbers that did not belong to her to obtain bank loans.
Austin was indicted by a federal grand jury on February 7, 2023 and she pled guilty on April 26, 2023 to conspiracy to commit bank fraud.
The Madison Police Department and HSI investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham prosecuted the case.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 180 Months in Prison Related to Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced yesterday to 15 years in federal prison for receiving child pornography.
According to public court documents, and evidence presented at sentencing, William Robert Adams, 23, was identified through a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children after suspected child pornography was found on the social media platform Snapchat. During the execution of a search warrant on Adams and his residence, law enforcement located numerous pictures and videos of children ranging in age from toddler to age 16. Law enforcement also found evidence that Adams was buying and selling child pornography online. Some of the images were determined to be sadistic or masochistic. In total, Adams was attributed with possessing over 5,000 child pornographic images.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Adams will be required to serve 5 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Adams was also ordered to pay restitution pursuant to 18 U.S.C. § 2259. This section requires restitution be paid to victims in an amount determined by the court, but no less than $3,000 per victim.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was prosecuted by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Iowa as part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Childhood” initiative, which was started in 2006 as a nationwide effort to combine law enforcement investigations and prosecutions, community action, and public awareness in order to reduce the incidence of sexual exploitation of children. Any persons having knowledge of a child being sexually abused are encouraged to call the Iowa Sexual Abuse Hotline at 1-800-284-7821.
Idaho Man Indicted on Federal Charges for Shooting Power Stations at the Hells Canyon and Brownlee DamsRead the Press Release
BOISE — U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today that a federal grand jury in Boise returned an indictment charging Randy Scott Vail, 58, of Meridian, Idaho with two counts of destruction of an energy facility, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1366(a).
The indictment alleges that on June 8, 2023, and continuing into June 9, 2023, Vail used a rifle to shoot at the Hells Canyon Dam hydroelectric power station and the Brownlee Dam hydroelectric power station, causing damage to both. The damage resulted in significant interruption and impairment of a function of the facilities. The dams are owned and operated by Idaho Power Company and produce, transmit, store, and distribute electricity to Washington, Idaho, and Oregon.
If convicted, Vail faces a maximum of 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge would determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit credited the cooperative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, and the Meridian Police Department, which led to the charges. U.S. Attorney Hurwit also thanked the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, the Adams County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the Washington County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for their collaboration in the prosecution of the defendant.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Gun Trafficker Convicted of Unlicensed Firearms Dealing and Machine Gun PossessionRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Yesterday, Johnny Matthew Battle Jr., 30, of Miami, Florida, was convicted at trial before U.S. District Court Judge Beth Bloom of dealing firearms without a license and possessing a machine gun.
Battle operated an illegal firearm dealing business since at least 2017, selling guns without a background check to persons representing themselves as having been convicted of a felony or as drug dealers. Battle’s illegal business included selling “Glock Switch” machine gun conversion devices and accepting narcotics as payment for firearms.
Law enforcement agents learned of Battle’s purchase and sale of firearms for profit and to support his criminal associates. In total, law enforcement agents have identified the purchase of at least 170 guns and have recovered many of them across the United States, including in New York City, Boston, and overseas. Battle also aided his criminal associates through acts that included a shooting at the home of his drug trafficker associates’ rival.
Sentencing has been scheduled for October 27. At sentencing, Battle faces up to 15 years in prison.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Christopher A. Robinson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Miami Field Division, and Chief of Police Manuel A. Morales of the Miami Police Department made the announcement.
ATF Miami Field Office and the Miami Police Department investigated the case, with assistance from the Broward County Sheriff’s Office (BSO), Miami-Dade Police Department (MDPD), the FBI, Miami Field Office, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), the U.S. Department of Commerce, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Miami. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Hayden O’Byrne and Ignacio J. Vázquez Jr. prosecuted it. Assistant U.S. Attorney Marx Calderon is handling asset forfeiture.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Sample Images of Evidence Collected by Law Enforcement Agents
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 22-cr-20352.
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Greece Man on Federal Supervised Release Going Back to Prison for Fraudulently Buying and Selling Sports CardsRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Kyle Bertrand, 35, of Greece, NY, who was convicted of wire fraud, was sentenced to serve 27 months in prison and ordered to pay approximately $33,000 restitution by Chief U.S. District Judge Elizabeth A. Wolford.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle P. Rossi, who handled the case, stated that stated that Bertrand is currently on supervised release following 2017 federal fraud and identity theft convictions. Between October 2021, and February 2022, Bertrand advertised on various social media and online forums that he had collectible sports cards for sale, and he also attempted to purchase sports cards that were being sold by other individuals. However, Bertrand advertised sports cards for sale that he either never possessed or never intended to deliver. For instance, he advertised sports cards that were collectible in nature and valued highly, with the ads appearing legitimate and containing appropriate information and images. When contacted by an interested buyer, Bertrand negotiated a sale price, and then directed the buyer to send payment by wire through a mobile payment service. After receiving the payment, he would send the buyer confirmation that the cards had been shipped. But, instead of receiving cards, buyers received empty boxes or cards of negligible value. In other instances, Bertrand stole collectible cards by contacting sellers, negotiating a purchase price, and making payment via credit card through processing service. Sellers would then mail the cards to Bertrand, who would then dispute his credit card payment through the credit card company, revoking the payment issued to the seller.
Bertrand defrauded a total of six victims in Florida, Ohio, Missouri, and Pennsylvania out of approximately $33,360.
The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia.
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Four sentenced in Eastern Panhandle drug trafficking operationRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Four men have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in an Eastern Panhandle drug trafficking operation.
Kirk Leon Grantham, age 45, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced today to 57 months for the distribution of controlled substances. Grantham was the leader of a drug trafficking conspiracy and worked with others in Berkeley and Jefferson Counties to sell cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl.
Three of Grantham’s co-defendants were also sentenced, as follows:
- Julian Demont Pace, age 48, of Bunker Hill, West Virginia was sentenced to 41 months.
- Ronald Lee Jackson, age 36, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to 15 months.
- William Brown, age 75, of Martinsburg, West Virginia, was sentenced to three years of probation.
Pace, Jackson, and Brown each have multiple prior drug trafficking convictions.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Lara Omps-Botteicher prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The FBI and the Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
Former local bakery owner sentenced to 6 years in prison for stealing identity of deceased baby & committing $1.5M in pandemic relief fraudRead the Press Release
COLUMBUS, Ohio – A former Columbus woman was sentenced in federal court today to 72 months in prison for committing 16 counts of wire and passport fraud. The defendant stole the identity of a baby who died as an infant and used the infant’s identity to obtain a passport, a student pilot license, a job as a flight attendant, and pandemic relief loans.
As part of her sentence, Ava Misseldine, 50, will pay more than $1.5 million in restitution and forfeit her Utah home and profits from the recent sale of her Michigan home, both of which she bought with stolen government money.
According to court documents, Misseldine stole the identity of a baby who died in 1979 and is buried in a Columbus cemetery.
In 2003, Misseldine applied for an Ohio ID and later a Social Security card and driver’s license using the stolen identity.
In 2007, Misseldine posed as the stolen identity to obtain a student pilot certificate and U.S. Passport. Misseldine submitted paperwork claiming she needed the passport to travel internationally in her occupation as a flight attendant for JetSelect. She was employed under the false identity.
Over the next 13 years, Misseldine continued to obtain identity documents in both her real and fake names. An investigation was launched in 2021 when she tried to renew the fraudulent passport.
Misseldine obtained approximately $1.5 million in fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loans in 2020 using both her real and fake identities. Her loan applications list her businesses as various bakeries and catering companies, including her former bakeries Sugar Inc. Cupcakes & Tea Salon in Dublin and Koko Tea Salon & Bakery in New Albany and at Easton. She submitted forged documents to support her loan applications.
Misseldine used the pandemic relief loan money to purchase a home for $647,500 adjacent to Zion National Park in Utah and a home for $327,500 in Michigan.
In August and September 2021, Misseldine, after relocating to Utah, obtained driver’s licenses in both names.
Misseldine was arrested in Utah in June 2022. She pleaded guilty in the Southern District of Ohio in October 2022.
Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Judge Michael H. Watson and commended the investigation by the U.S. Department of State Diplomatic Security Service and Social Security Administration Office of the Inspector General, assisted by the U.S. Marshals, the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles, and the Ohio Department of Job and Family Services. Special Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Landry is representing the United States in this case.
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Former Middle School Health Aide Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, announced today that Aaron Leon Happy was sentenced to 10 years in prison. Happy, 42, of Shiprock, New Mexico, pled guilty on February 27, 2023, to possession of visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
According to court records, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children received a tip from Facebook in July 2019 about a user’s activity. Specifically, Facebook disclosed that the user, “Aaron Happ,” was engaging multiple minors in sexually explicit conversations on its platform. The tip was sent to the FBI, who identified the user as Happy, who then worked as a health aide at the Newcomb Middle School located within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation.
On Dec. 15, 2020, the FBI executed a search warrant on Happy’s person, office, and residence. Investigators found a trove of videos and images of children being sexually assaulted on one of Happy’s cellular telephones which he obtained from the internet.
Upon his release from prison, Happy will be subject to supervised release for life and must register as a sex offender.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI investigated this case with assistance from the FBI Albuquerque’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, the FBI Gallup Resident Agency, the FBI Denver - Durango Resident Agency, the San Juan County (New Mexico) Sheriff’s Office, the Cortez (Colorado) Police Department and the Montezuma County (Colorado) Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jaymie L. Roybal is prosecuting the case.
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23-171
Former Manager of Brockton RMV Sentenced for ExtortionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Brockton woman was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for accepting money in exchange for agreeing to issue passing learner’s permit test scores to applicants regardless of whether they actually passed at the Registry of Motor Vehicles (RMV) in Brockton.
Mia Cox-Johnson, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to four months in prison and one year of supervised release, with the first six months to be served under home confinement. Cox was also ordered to pay a $5,500 fine. Cox-Johnson pleaded guilty on March 30, 2023 to two counts of extortion under color of official right and one count of conspiring to commit extortion.
Cox-Johnson, a former manager of the RMV service center in Brockton, took money in exchange for passing scores on learner’s permit tests for both passenger vehicle driver’s licenses and Commercial Driver’s Licenses (CDLs). Between December 2018 and October 2019, Cox-Johnson conspired to take money in exchange for agreeing to give customers passing scores on their multiple-choice learner’s permit tests even if they did not pass. Customers were told to request a paper test instead of taking the test on the RMV computer. Cox-Johnson personally graded these customers’ paper tests and gave the applicants passing scores.
On Dec. 28, 2018, Cox-Johnson accepted $1,000 in cash – delivered from a friend on behalf of another individual – in exchange for a passing score for the individual’s relative who had failed the passenger vehicle learner’s permit test six times when taking it in their native language. Cox-Johnson agreed to score the relative as having passed the permit test regardless of whether they had truly passed. Cox-Johnson did, in fact, pass the relative’s test, which was taken on paper in English.
On Oct. 21, 2019, a customer came to the Brockton RMV and took three multiple-choice tests they needed to pass in order to get a commercial learner’s permit – a prerequisite to taking the road test for a CDL. Cox-Johnson accepted $200 in cash from an individual to score the customer as having passed the tests even if they did not actually pass. In fact, the applicant failed one of the tests, but Cox-Johnson falsely gave the applicant a passing score.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Christopher A. Scharf, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region, made the announcement today. The investigation was conducted by Homeland Security Investigation’s Document and Benefit Fraud Task Force (DBFTF). Valuable assistance was provided by the Mattapoisett Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christine Wichers, Adam Deitch and Eugenia M. Carris of the Public Corruption & Special Prosecutions Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mackenzie Duane of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.
Former Los Lunas High School Coach Sentenced to 23 Years for Coercion and Enticement and Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced today that Johnathon Bindues was sentenced to 23 years in prison. A federal jury convicted Bindues, 32, of Los Lunas, on May 4, 2023, of coercion and enticement of a minor and production of child pornography.
According to the evidence at trial and other publicly available court records, Bindues used his former position at Los Lunas High School as the coach for the girls’ basketball and track teams to gain special access to minor females. The victim, identified as Jane Doe, was a freshman and a member of the teams Bindues coached. Between September 2020 and June 2021, Bindues exchanged over 17,000 text messages with the victim. Bindues requested nude images of Jane Doe, sent her explicit images of himself, and repeatedly encouraged her to delete text messages. After discovering sexually explicit messages on her daughter’s phone, Jane Doe’s mother reported the relationship to the New Mexico State Police.
Upon his release from prison, Bindues will be subject to 10 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
The FBI and New Mexico State Police investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Jaymie L. Roybal and Patrick E. Cordova are prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice (DOJ) to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and DOJ’s Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc/.
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23-173
Former Leader of “Clan Del Golfo” Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison for Operating a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Dairo Antonio Úsuga David, known by various aliases, including “Otoniel,” a citizen of Colombia, was sentenced by United States District Judge Dora L. Irizarry to 45 years’ imprisonment for engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise as a leader of the multibillion-dollar paramilitary and drug trafficking organization known as the “Clan del Golfo” (CDG). Úsuga David was also sentenced to 45 years’ imprisonment for engaging in a maritime narcotics conspiracy and 45 years’ imprisonment for engaging in a narcotics importation conspiracy. The sentences will run concurrently. As part of the sentence, the Court ordered Úsuga David to pay $216 million in forfeiture. The defendant pleaded guilty to all three charges in January 2023.
Markenzy Lapointe, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Merrick B. Garland, United States Attorney General, Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Damian Williams, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Anne Milgram, Administrator, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Ivan J. Arvelo, Special Agent-in-Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI), Christie M. Curtis, Acting Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), Edward A. Caban, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), and Steven A. Nigrelli, Acting Superintendent, New York State Police (NYSP), announced the sentence.
“Today’s 45-year sentence of Clan de Golfo’s notoriously violent leader illustrates the United States’ tenacious approach to securing justice against those who threaten the security of our nation and communities,” stated United States Attorney Lapointe. “Cartel leaders like Úsuga David will be found, extradited, and prosecuted.”
“Otoniel led one of the largest cocaine trafficking organizations in the world, where he directed the exportation of massive amounts of cocaine to the United States and ordered the ruthless execution of Colombian law enforcement, military officials, and civilians,” stated Attorney General Garland. “This sentence sends a clear message: the Justice Department will find and hold accountable the leaders of deadly drug trafficking organizations that harm the American people, no matter where they are and no matter how long it takes.”
“The human misery caused by the defendant’s incredibly violent, vengeful, and bloody reign as leader of the Clan de Golfo drug trafficking organization may never be fully calculated due to its magnitude, but today’s lengthy sentence delivers appropriate justice and sends a message to other paramilitary and cartel leaders that the United States will seek their arrest and extradition in order to hold them accountable in our courts of law,” stated United States Attorney Peace.
Mr. Peace extended his appreciation to the United States Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Florida and Eastern District of Texas, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS), Judicial Attachés in Bogotá, Colombia and Attorneys assigned at the Special Operations Division, the United States Marshals Service, the Port Authority Police Department, the Colombian Attorney General’s Office, the Colombian National Police, the Colombian Ministry of National Defense, the Colombian Ministry of Justice, and the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for assistance in the investigation, arrest, and extradition of the defendant.
“Today’s sentencing demonstrates DEA’s commitment to defeating deadly criminal networks who have no regard for human life,” stated DEA Administrator Milgram. “DEA investigated Otoniel – one of the most violent and prolific drug traffickers in the world – for almost 20 years. Under Otoniel’s leadership, the Clan de Golfo shipped massive quantities of cocaine into the United States, terrorized the Colombian people, and killed civilians, law enforcement officers, and rivals in Colombia who threatened the organization’s trafficking operations. I commend the men and women of the DEA for their many years of outstanding work that culminated in today’s sentencing.”
“Today’s sentencing of notorious Clan del Golfo leader Dairo Antonio Úsuga David is the culmination of years of collaborative efforts between HSI and our local, federal and international law enforcement partners,” stated HSI New York Special Agent-in-Charge Arvelo. “Criminals should take note of this sentencing and heed its warning; HSI remains committed to these joint efforts to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations whose illicit activities threaten the national security of the United States and the safety of our communities.”
“When you consider the scale of Usuga David’s operations—a man with a private army who dared to place bounties on the heads of law enforcement and other government officials in Columbia–– you have to admire the tenacity and courage of team that brought him to justice, both in Columbia and the U.S.” stated NYPD Commissioner Caban. “The NYPD is proud to have played its part in the coordinated efforts of Columbian officials, the U.S. Department of Justice, the DEA, the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the New York State Police.”
NYSP Acting Superintendent Nigrelli stated: “Today’s sentencing is the direct result of law enforcements dedication to stemming the tide of illegal drugs coming into our communities. This defendant smuggled tons of illegal drugs into our country and our state, putting lives in danger. We will continue to make it a priority to find, then dismantle these dangerous and deadly operations. I want to thank our members and our law enforcement partners for their work on this case and their commitment to stopping the flow of illegal drugs into our country.”
Between June 2003 and October 2021, Úsuga David was the leader of a continuing criminal enterprise responsible for exporting multi-ton shipments of cocaine from Colombia to Mexico and Central America for ultimate importation into the United States. Additionally, Úsuga David participated in conspiracies to distribute narcotics via maritime vessels and also to manufacture and distribute cocaine, knowing and intending that the narcotics would be illegally imported into the United States.
The Clan Del Golfo
Between 2012 and through his capture by Colombian military and law enforcement forces on October 23, 2021, Úsuga David was the leader of the CDG.
The CDG is one of the most violent and most powerful criminal organizations in Colombia, and it is one of the largest distributors of cocaine in the world. With as many as 6,000 members at times, the CDG exercises military control over vast amounts of territory in the Urabá region of Antioquia, Colombia, one of the most lucrative drug trafficking areas within Colombia due to its proximity to the Colombia-Panama border and the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Clad in military uniforms, CDG members employ military tactics and weapons to reinforce their power and incite wars and violence against rival drug traffickers, paramilitary organizations, and Colombian law enforcement authorities who threaten the CDG’s control.
The CDG funds its operations primarily through a multi-billion-dollar drug trafficking operation. It imposes a “tax” on any drug traffickers operating in territory under its control, charging fees for every kilogram of cocaine manufactured, stored, or transported through areas controlled by the organization. The CDG also directly exports cocaine, and coordinates the production, purchase, and transfer of weekly and bi-weekly multi-ton shipments of cocaine from Colombia into Central America and Mexico for ultimate importation to the United States.
To maintain control over CDG territory, Úsuga David and the CDG employed an army of “sicarios,” or hitmen, who carried out acts of violence, including murders, assaults, kidnappings, torture, and assassinations against competitors and those deemed traitors to the organization, as well as their family members. The CDG murdered and assaulted Colombian law enforcement officers, Colombian military personnel, rival drug traffickers and paramilitaries, potential witnesses, and civilians. Úsuga David and the CDG used violence to promote and enhance the reputation and position of the CDG with respect to rival criminal organizations; preserve, protect, and expand the CDG’s power and territory; finance the CDG’s operations and enrich its leaders through the collection of drug debts; maintain discipline among its members and associates; and protect CDG members from arrest and prosecution by attempting to silence potential witnesses and retaliating against law enforcement authorities and those assisting law enforcement.
Úsuga David served as a high-ranking leader within the CDG from its inception and was its principal leader for approximately10 years. During his reign, Úsuga David oversaw all of the CDG’s activities and directed its members to engage in extensive criminal acts, including acts of violence, mandated shutdowns of all business activities and civilian movement within designated regions of Colombia, retaliation against law enforcement authorities and potential witnesses, the exertion of control over drug manufacturing facilities and trafficking routes, and the exportation of cocaine in multi-ton quantities.
Úsuga David assumed power and territorial control over vast swaths of the Colombian coastline and personally directed members of the CDG to commit acts of violence to reinforce that power. This included violence against civilians. For example, in early 2012, following the death of Úsuga David’s brother in a police raid, Úsuga David ordered a multi-day shutdown be imposed on towns and communities within the CDG’s control. During the strike, CDG members ordered that all businesses remain closed, and that residents stay in their homes. Úsuga David ordered CDG members to execute those who did not adhere to his orders.
Úsuga David also personally ordered CDG members to commit murders of specific individuals, including the murders of rival drug traffickers and members of the CDG who betrayed him or the organization. For example, Úsuga David ordered the assassinations of multiple individuals who worked for a rival drug trafficking organization.
In addition, Úsuga David regularly directed CDG members to use violence, intimidation, and murder to dissuade law enforcement authorities from performing their duties and to silence potential witnesses. For example, at Úsuga David’s direction, the CDG carried out organized campaigns, referred to as “Plan Pistolas,” to kill Colombian law enforcement and military personnel using military-grade weapons, including grenades, explosives, and assault rifles. Úsuga David offered bounties for the murder of Colombian police officers and military personnel to intimidate law enforcement authorities and prevent them from capturing him or interfering in the CDG’s business. Úsuga David’s organization made numerous attempts to assassinate individuals who were believed to be cooperating with law enforcement.
Úsuga David was also extensively involved in the narcotics activities that funded the CDG and enabled its power. He oversaw the CDG’s drug trafficking exports and directed a network of “debt collectors” tasked with the enforcement and collection of taxes paid by drug trafficking organizations that operated in regions controlled by the CDG. In addition, Úsuga David controlled cocaine manufacturing facilities and used the CDG’s extensive distribution network to export cocaine independently for his own personal profit.
Asset Forfeiture
As part of the sentence, the Court ordered Úsuga David to pay a $216 million forfeiture money judgment. The forfeiture money judgment is subject to the Agreement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Republic of Colombia concerning the Sharing of Forfeited Proceeds and Instrumentalities of Crime.
Assistant United States Attorney Robert Emery of the Southern District of Florida and Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Li of the Southern District of New York led the prosecutions for their respective offices. The government’s case is being handled by the Eastern District of New York’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Francisco J. Navarro, Gillian Kassner, and Tara B. McGrath are in charge of the prosecution. Claire S. Kedeshian of the Office’s Asset Recovery Section is handling forfeiture matters.
The investigation, extradition, and conviction of Úsuga David is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 15-cr-20403.
The Defendant:
DAIRO ANTONIO USUGA DAVID (also known as “Otoniel,” “Mao,” “Gallo” and “Mauricio-Gallo”)
Age: 51
Antioquia, ColombiaE.D.N.Y. Docket Nos. 14-CR-625 (S-4) (DLI)
23-CR-021 (DLI)
23-CR-027 (DLI)###
Former Leader of “Clan Del Golfo” Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison for Operating a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
BROOKLYN, NY - Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Dairo Antonio Úsuga David, known by various aliases, including “Otoniel,” a citizen of Colombia, was sentenced by United States District Judge Dora L. Irizarry to 45 years’ imprisonment for engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise as a leader of the multibillion-dollar paramilitary and drug trafficking organization known as the “Clan del Golfo” (CDG). Úsuga David was also sentenced to 45 years’ imprisonment for engaging in a maritime narcotics conspiracy and 45 years’ imprisonment for engaging in a narcotics importation conspiracy. The sentences will run concurrently. As part of the sentence, the Court ordered Úsuga David to pay $216 million in forfeiture. The defendant pleaded guilty to all three charges in January 2023.
Merrick B. Garland, United States Attorney General, Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Markenzy Lapointe, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, Damian Williams, United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Anne Milgram, Administrator, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Ivan J. Arvelo, Special Agent-in-Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI), Christie M. Curtis, Acting Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), Edward A. Caban, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), and Steven A. Nigrelli, Acting Superintendent, New York State Police (NYSP), announced the sentence.
“Otoniel led one of the largest cocaine trafficking organizations in the world, where he directed the exportation of massive amounts of cocaine to the United States and ordered the ruthless execution of Colombian law enforcement, military officials, and civilians,” stated Attorney General Garland. “This sentence sends a clear message: the Justice Department will find and hold accountable the leaders of deadly drug trafficking organizations that harm the American people, no matter where they are and no matter how long it takes.”
“The human misery caused by the defendant’s incredibly violent, vengeful, and bloody reign as leader of the Clan de Golfo drug trafficking organization may never be fully calculated due to its magnitude, but today’s lengthy sentence delivers appropriate justice and sends a message to other paramilitary and cartel leaders that the United States will seek their arrest and extradition in order to hold them accountable in our courts of law,” stated United States Attorney Peace.
Mr. Peace extended his appreciation to the United States Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Florida and Eastern District of Texas, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS), Judicial Attachés in Bogotá, Colombia and Attorneys assigned at the Special Operations Division, the United States Marshals Service, the Port Authority Police Department, the Colombian Attorney General’s Office, the Colombian National Police, the Colombian Ministry of National Defense, the Colombian Ministry of Justice, and the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, for assistance in the investigation, arrest, and extradition of the defendant.
“Today’s 45-year sentence of Clan de Golfo’s notoriously violent leader illustrates the United States’ tenacious approach to securing justice against those who threaten the security of our nation and communities,” stated United States Attorney Lapointe. “Cartel leaders like Úsuga David will be found, extradited, and prosecuted.”
“Today’s sentencing demonstrates DEA’s commitment to defeating deadly criminal networks who have no regard for human life,” stated DEA Administrator Milgram. “DEA investigated Otoniel – one of the most violent and prolific drug traffickers in the world – for almost 20 years. Under Otoniel’s leadership, the Clan de Golfo shipped massive quantities of cocaine into the United States, terrorized the Colombian people, and killed civilians, law enforcement officers, and rivals in Colombia who threatened the organization’s trafficking operations. I commend the men and women of the DEA for their many years of outstanding work that culminated in today’s sentencing.”
“Today’s sentencing of notorious Clan del Golfo leader Dairo Antonio Úsuga David is the culmination of years of collaborative efforts between HSI and our local, federal and international law enforcement partners,” stated HSI New York Special Agent-in-Charge Arvelo. “Criminals should take note of this sentencing and heed its warning; HSI remains committed to these joint efforts to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations whose illicit activities threaten the national security of the United States and the safety of our communities.”
“When you consider the scale of Usuga David’s operations—a man with a private army who dared to place bounties on the heads of law enforcement and other government officials in Columbia–– you have to admire the tenacity and courage of team that brought him to justice, both in Columbia and the U.S.” stated NYPD Commissioner Caban. “The NYPD is proud to have played its part in the coordinated efforts of Columbian officials, the U.S. Department of Justice, the DEA, the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations and the New York State Police.”
NYSP Acting Superintendent Nigrelli stated: “Today’s sentencing is the direct result of law enforcements dedication to stemming the tide of illegal drugs coming into our communities. This defendant smuggled tons of illegal drugs into our country and our state, putting lives in danger. We will continue to make it a priority to find, then dismantle these dangerous and deadly operations. I want to thank our members and our law enforcement partners for their work on this case and their commitment to stopping the flow of illegal drugs into our country.”
Between June 2003 and October 2021, Úsuga David was the leader of a continuing criminal enterprise responsible for exporting multi-ton shipments of cocaine from Colombia to Mexico and Central America for ultimate importation into the United States. Additionally, Úsuga David participated in conspiracies to distribute narcotics via maritime vessels and also to manufacture and distribute cocaine, knowing and intending that the narcotics would be illegally imported into the United States.
The Clan Del Golfo
Between 2012 and through his capture by Colombian military and law enforcement forces on October 23, 2021, Úsuga David was the leader of the CDG.
The CDG is one of the most violent and most powerful criminal organizations in Colombia, and it is one of the largest distributors of cocaine in the world. With as many as 6,000 members at times, the CDG exercises military control over vast amounts of territory in the Urabá region of Antioquia, Colombia, one of the most lucrative drug trafficking areas within Colombia due to its proximity to the Colombia-Panama border and the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Clad in military uniforms, CDG members employ military tactics and weapons to reinforce their power and incite wars and violence against rival drug traffickers, paramilitary organizations, and Colombian law enforcement authorities who threaten the CDG’s control.
The CDG funds its operations primarily through a multi-billion-dollar drug trafficking operation. It imposes a “tax” on any drug traffickers operating in territory under its control, charging fees for every kilogram of cocaine manufactured, stored, or transported through areas controlled by the organization. The CDG also directly exports cocaine, and coordinates the production, purchase, and transfer of weekly and bi-weekly multi-ton shipments of cocaine from Colombia into Central America and Mexico for ultimate importation to the United States.
To maintain control over CDG territory, Úsuga David and the CDG employed an army of “sicarios,” or hitmen, who carried out acts of violence, including murders, assaults, kidnappings, torture, and assassinations against competitors and those deemed traitors to the organization, as well as their family members. The CDG murdered and assaulted Colombian law enforcement officers, Colombian military personnel, rival drug traffickers and paramilitaries, potential witnesses, and civilians. Úsuga David and the CDG used violence to promote and enhance the reputation and position of the CDG with respect to rival criminal organizations; preserve, protect, and expand the CDG’s power and territory; finance the CDG’s operations and enrich its leaders through the collection of drug debts; maintain discipline among its members and associates; and protect CDG members from arrest and prosecution by attempting to silence potential witnesses and retaliating against law enforcement authorities and those assisting law enforcement.
Úsuga David served as a high-ranking leader within the CDG from its inception and was its principal leader for approximately10 years. During his reign, Úsuga David oversaw all of the CDG’s activities and directed its members to engage in extensive criminal acts, including acts of violence, mandated shutdowns of all business activities and civilian movement within designated regions of Colombia, retaliation against law enforcement authorities and potential witnesses, the exertion of control over drug manufacturing facilities and trafficking routes, and the exportation of cocaine in multi-ton quantities.
Úsuga David assumed power and territorial control over vast swaths of the Colombian coastline and personally directed members of the CDG to commit acts of violence to reinforce that power. This included violence against civilians. For example, in early 2012, following the death of Úsuga David’s brother in a police raid, Úsuga David ordered a multi-day shutdown be imposed on towns and communities within the CDG’s control. During the strike, CDG members ordered that all businesses remain closed, and that residents stay in their homes. Úsuga David ordered CDG members to execute those who did not adhere to his orders.
Úsuga David also personally ordered CDG members to commit murders of specific individuals, including the murders of rival drug traffickers and members of the CDG who betrayed him or the organization. For example, Úsuga David ordered the assassinations of multiple individuals who worked for a rival drug trafficking organization.
In addition, Úsuga David regularly directed CDG members to use violence, intimidation, and murder to dissuade law enforcement authorities from performing their duties and to silence potential witnesses. For example, at Úsuga David’s direction, the CDG carried out organized campaigns, referred to as “Plan Pistolas,” to kill Colombian law enforcement and military personnel using military-grade weapons, including grenades, explosives, and assault rifles. Úsuga David offered bounties for the murder of Colombian police officers and military personnel to intimidate law enforcement authorities and prevent them from capturing him or interfering in the CDG’s business. Úsuga David’s organization made numerous attempts to assassinate individuals who were believed to be cooperating with law enforcement.
Úsuga David was also extensively involved in the narcotics activities that funded the CDG and enabled its power. He oversaw the CDG’s drug trafficking exports and directed a network of “debt collectors” tasked with the enforcement and collection of taxes paid by drug trafficking organizations that operated in regions controlled by the CDG. In addition, Úsuga David controlled cocaine manufacturing facilities and used the CDG’s extensive distribution network to export cocaine independently for his own personal profit.
Asset Forfeiture
As part of the sentence, the Court ordered Úsuga David to pay a $216 million forfeiture money judgment. The forfeiture money judgment is subject to the Agreement between the Government of the United States of America and the Government of the Republic of Colombia concerning the Sharing of Forfeited Proceeds and Instrumentalities of Crime.
The government’s case is being handled by the Eastern District of New York’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Francisco J. Navarro, Gillian Kassner, and Tara B. McGrath are in charge of the prosecution. Claire S. Kedeshian of the Office’s Asset Recovery Section is handling forfeiture matters. Assistant United States Attorney Robert Emery of the Southern District of Florida and Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Li of the Southern District of New York led the prosecutions for their respective offices.
The investigation, extradition, and conviction of Úsuga David is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
The Defendant:
DAIRO ANTONIO USUGA DAVID (also known as “Otoniel,” “Mao,” “Gallo” and “Mauricio-Gallo”)
Age: 51
Antioquia, ColombiaE.D.N.Y. Docket Nos. 14-CR-625 (S-4) (DLI)
23-CR-021 (DLI)
23-CR-027 (DLI)Former Leader of Clan Del Golfo Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced to 45 Years in Prison for Operating a Continuing Criminal Enterprise and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
Note: To obtain copy of b-roll of the U.S. Marshals Service transporting Otoniel via NYPD helicopter on May 5, 2022 click here.
Earlier today in federal court, a citizen of Colombia was sentenced to 45 years in prison for engaging in a continuing criminal enterprise as a leader of the multibillion-dollar paramilitary and drug trafficking organization known as the “Clan del Golfo” (CDG).
According to court documents, Dairo Antonio Úsuga David, aka Otoniel, 51, of Antioquia, Colombia, was also sentenced to 45 years in prison for engaging in a maritime narcotics conspiracy and 45 years in prison for engaging in a narcotics importation conspiracy. The sentences will run concurrently. As part of the sentence, the court ordered Úsuga David to pay $216 million in forfeiture. The defendant pleaded guilty to all three charges in January 2023.
“Otoniel led one of the largest cocaine trafficking organizations in the world, where he directed the exportation of massive amounts of cocaine to the United States and ordered the ruthless execution of Colombian law enforcement, military officials, and civilians,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “This sentence sends a clear message: the Justice Department will find and hold accountable the leaders of deadly drug trafficking organizations that harm the American people, no matter where they are and no matter how long it takes.”
“The FBI’s goal is to save lives by stopping the supply of deadly narcotics before they reach our borders and targeting the leadership of these criminal enterprises,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The success of this case is due to the collaborative efforts of partners who work to dismantle these dangerous drug trafficking organizations and stop these criminals from harming our communities.”
“Today’s sentencing demonstrates DEA’s commitment to defeating deadly criminal networks who have no regard for human life,” said Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Administrator Anne Milgram. “DEA investigated Otoniel – one of the most violent and prolific drug traffickers in the world – for almost 20 years. Under Otoniel’s leadership, the Clan del Golfo shipped massive quantities of cocaine into the United States, terrorized the Colombian people, and killed civilians, law enforcement officers, and rivals in Colombia who threatened the organization’s trafficking operations. I commend the men and women of the DEA for their many years of outstanding work that culminated in today’s sentencing.”
“The human misery caused by the defendant’s incredibly violent, vengeful, and bloody reign as leader of the Clan del Golfo drug trafficking organization may never be fully calculated due to its magnitude, but today’s lengthy sentence delivers appropriate justice and sends a message to other paramilitary and cartel leaders that the United States will seek their arrest and extradition in order to hold them accountable in our courts of law,” said U.S. Attorney Breon Peace for the Eastern District of New York.
“Today’s 45-year sentence of Clan del Golfo’s notoriously violent leader illustrates the United States’ tenacious approach to securing justice against those who threaten the security of our nation and communities,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida Markenzy Lapointe. “Cartel leaders like Úsuga David will be found, extradited, and prosecuted.”
“Today’s sentencing of notorious Clan del Golfo leader Dairo Antonio Úsuga David is the culmination of years of collaborative efforts between HSI and our local, federal and international law enforcement partners,” said Special Agent in Charge Ivan J. Arvelo of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New York. “Criminals should take note of this sentencing and heed its warning; HSI remains committed to these joint efforts to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations whose illicit activities threaten the national security of the United States and the safety of our communities.”
Between June 2003 and October 2021, Úsuga David was the leader of a continuing criminal enterprise responsible for exporting multi-ton shipments of cocaine from Colombia to Mexico and Central America for ultimate importation into the United States. Additionally, Úsuga David participated in conspiracies to distribute narcotics via maritime vessels and also to manufacture and distribute cocaine, knowing and intending that the narcotics would be illegally imported into the United States.
The Clan Del Golfo
The CDG is one of the most violent and powerful criminal organizations in Colombia, and it is one of the largest distributors of cocaine in the world. With as many as 6,000 members at times, the CDG exercises military control over vast amounts of territory in the Urabá region of Antioquia, Colombia, one of the most lucrative drug trafficking areas within Colombia due to its proximity to the Colombia-Panama border and the Caribbean and Pacific coasts. Clad in military uniforms, CDG members employ military tactics and weapons to reinforce their power and incite wars and violence against rival drug traffickers, paramilitary organizations, and Colombian law enforcement authorities who threaten the CDG’s control.
The CDG funds its operations primarily through a multi-billion-dollar drug trafficking operation. It imposes a “tax” on any drug traffickers operating in territory under its control, charging fees for every kilogram of cocaine manufactured, stored, or transported through areas controlled by the organization. The CDG also directly exports cocaine and coordinates the production, purchase, and transfer of weekly and bi-weekly multi-ton shipments of cocaine from Colombia into Central America and Mexico for ultimate importation to the United States.
To maintain control over CDG territory, Úsuga David and the CDG employed an army of “sicarios,” or hitmen, who carried out acts of violence, including murders, assaults, kidnappings, torture, and assassinations against competitors and those deemed traitors to the organization, as well as their family members. The CDG murdered and assaulted Colombian law enforcement officers, Colombian military personnel, rival drug traffickers and paramilitaries, potential witnesses, and civilians. Úsuga David and the CDG used violence to promote and enhance the reputation and position of the CDG with respect to rival criminal organizations; preserve, protect, and expand the CDG’s power and territory; finance the CDG’s operations and enrich its leaders through the collection of drug debts; maintain discipline among its members and associates; and protect CDG members from arrest and prosecution by attempting to silence potential witnesses and retaliating against law enforcement authorities and those assisting law enforcement.
Úsuga David served as a high-ranking leader within the CDG from its inception and was its principal leader for approximately 10 years. During his reign, Úsuga David oversaw all of the CDG’s activities and directed its members to engage in extensive criminal acts, including acts of violence, mandated shutdowns of all business activities and civilian movement within designated regions of Colombia, retaliation against law enforcement authorities and potential witnesses, the exertion of control over drug manufacturing facilities and trafficking routes, and the exportation of cocaine in multi-ton quantities.
Úsuga David assumed power and territorial control over vast swaths of the Colombian coastline and personally directed members of the CDG to commit acts of violence to reinforce that power. This included violence against civilians. For example, in early 2012, following the death of Úsuga David’s brother in a police raid, Úsuga David ordered a multi-day shutdown be imposed on towns and communities within the CDG’s control. During the strike, CDG members ordered that all businesses remain closed, and that residents stay in their homes. Úsuga David ordered CDG members to execute those who did not adhere to his orders.
Úsuga David also personally ordered CDG members to commit murders of specific individuals, including the murders of rival drug traffickers and members of the CDG who betrayed him or the organization. For example, Úsuga David ordered the assassinations of multiple individuals who worked for a rival drug trafficking organization.
In addition, Úsuga David regularly directed CDG members to use violence, intimidation, and murder to dissuade law enforcement authorities from performing their duties and to silence potential witnesses. For example, at Úsuga David’s direction, the CDG carried out organized campaigns, referred to as “Plan Pistolas,” to kill Colombian law enforcement and military personnel using military-grade weapons, including grenades, explosives, and assault rifles. Úsuga David offered bounties for the murder of Colombian police officers and military personnel to intimidate law enforcement authorities and prevent them from capturing him or interfering in the CDG’s business. Úsuga David’s organization made numerous attempts to assassinate individuals who were believed to be cooperating with law enforcement.
Úsuga David was also extensively involved in the narcotics activities that funded the CDG and enabled its power. He oversaw the CDG’s drug trafficking exports and directed a network of “debt collectors” tasked with the enforcement and collection of taxes paid by drug trafficking organizations that operated in regions controlled by the CDG. In addition, Úsuga David controlled cocaine manufacturing facilities and used the CDG’s extensive distribution network to export cocaine independently for his own personal profit.
As part of the sentence, the court ordered Úsuga David to pay a $216 million forfeiture money judgment. The forfeiture money judgment is subject to the agreement between the U.S. government and the Government of the Republic of Colombia concerning the sharing of forfeited proceeds and instrumentalities of crime.
The DEA, HSI, FBI, New York City Police Department (NYPD), and New York State Police (NYSP) investigated the case. The United States Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Florida and Eastern District of Texas, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section (NDDS), Judicial Attachés in Bogotá, Colombia, and attorneys assigned at the Special Operations Division, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Port Authority Police Department, the Colombian Attorney General’s Office, the Colombian National Police, the Colombian Ministry of National Defense, the Colombian Ministry of Justice, and the Colombian Ministry of Foreign Affairs provided valuable assistance in the investigation, arrest, and extradition of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francisco J. Navarro, Gillian Kassner, and Tara B. McGrath for the Eastern District of New York prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claire S. Kedeshian for the Eastern District of New York is handling forfeiture matters. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Emery for the Southern District of Florida and Alexander Li for the Southern District of New York led the prosecutions for their respective offices.
The investigation, extradition, and conviction of Úsuga David is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Former Lawyer Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud in West Palm Beach Federal CourtRead the Press Release
MIAMI – Craig Sherman, an 80-year-old retired lawyer pleaded guilty yesterday to two counts of federal wire fraud charges in West Palm Beach, Florida.
Sherman admitted that from 2013 through 2020, he defrauded friends and clients through an investment scheme. Sherman was an attorney in Boca Raton, Fla., who also worked as the town attorney for the Town of Bay Harbor Islands, Fla. Sherman solicited friends and clients to invest in real estate projects that were planned or in progress in the Town of Bay Harbor Islands. Sherman indicated that the investors would loan money for construction projects and would be paid between 6% to 8% interest annually for the loan. The principal would be returned later, usually when the construction project was completed. Instead of using the investment money to fund the construction projects–like he claimed he would—Sherman used it to pay for his personal expenses and to try to keep his law firm running. He also used investment money from some investors to cover payments due to other investors. The total fraud is close to $7 million.
The sentencing hearing will be scheduled later. Sherman faces up to 20 years in prison as to each count and will be ordered to pay restitution to the victims.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, announced the guilty plea.
FBI Miami, West Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Laurence M. Bardfeld is prosecuting it.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 23-cr-80083.
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Former Erie County Deputy Sheriff Sentenced for Using Excessive ForceRead the Press Release
TOLEDO – Adam Bess, 35, was sentenced today to 12 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jack Zouhary after earlier pleading guilty to a felony for depriving an inmate at the Erie County Jail of her constitutional rights by using excessive force. Six months of this sentence will be served as home detention. Judge Zouhary also ordered Bess to pay a $100 special assessment and be placed on supervised release for one year upon release from imprisonment.
According to court documents, on November 1, 2021, Bess was working as a sergeant at the Erie County Jail. During the booking process of a new arrestee, Bess placed his hand around the inmate’s throat in anger in a “choke hold” and caused the inmate to have difficulty breathing. Bess’ actions were without justification and in violation of both the Erie County Sheriff’s Office use of force policy as well as federal law. After being released from jail, the inmate had visible bruising on her neck, immediately reported the matter to the command staff at Erie County Sheriff’s Office, and went to the hospital for evaluation of her injuries. The Erie County Sheriff’s Office promptly reported the matter to the FBI and placed Bess on administrative leave pending the outcome of an internal investigation. Bess subsequently resigned.
As a result of Bess’ federal felony conviction, he can no longer work in law enforcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI Cleveland Division, Sandusky Resident Agency, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Freeman and Tracey Tangeman.
Florida Woman Sentenced for Her Role in a Conspiracy to Sell Methamphetamine in Southern AlabamaRead the Press Release
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA – Today, United States Attorney Sandra J. Stewart announced that a federal judge sentenced Lashana Nakiah Foreman, 37, from Crestview, Florida, to 204 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. During today’s sentencing hearing, the judge also ordered that Foreman serve five years of supervised release after her prison term. Federal prisoners are not eligible for parole.
Foreman’s case was a part of a larger drug conspiracy including seven other co-defendants and spanning multiple Alabama counties, including Covington and Crenshaw. During Foreman’s October 2022 trial, federal prosecutors proved that she and another co-conspirator, Devarlos Quantrel Shanklin, from Luverne, Alabama, made a deal for Foreman to purchase five ounces of the methamphetamine in Opp, Alabama. On November 15, 2022, Shanklin received a sentence of 37 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, investigated this case, with assistance from the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office, the Opp Police Department, the 22nd Judicial Drug Task Force, and the Montgomery Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon W. Bates and B. Chelsea Phillips prosecuted the case.
Florida Man Sentenced to over Ten Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Florida man was sentenced to 127 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Ricky Fernando Duckworth, 41, of Jacksonville, Florida was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.
According to court records, on March 19, 2019, investigators through an undercover agent purchased two ounces of 98% pure methamphetamine from Duckworth in Moss Point, Mississippi. On November 16, 2021, Mr. Duckworth was indicted by a federal grand jury. He pled guilty on March 28, 2023, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor- led, intelligence driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Federal Inmate Convicted of Producing Obscene Images of ChildrenRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A federal judge convicted a federal inmate yesterday on charges of producing and possessing obscene images of children.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Jesse Fernando Perez, 36, is currently serving a 121-month federal sentence for possession of child pornography at the Federal Correctional Complex in Petersburg, Virginia. While incarcerated, he copied images of children from books and magazines, and then drew on the images to create depictions of the children engaged in sexually explicit activity.
Perez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 60 years in prison when sentenced on December 11. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young announced his verdict.
The U.S. Bureau of Prisons assisted in this investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael C. Moore and Trial Attorney Angelica Carrasco from the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-19.
Federal Grand Jury A Indictments Announced- August 2023Read the Press Release
TULSA, Okla. – United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the August 2023 Federal Grand Jury A.
The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence.
Andrew Michael Sneed. Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor. Andrew Michael Sneed, 27, is charged with aggravated sexual abuse of a minor after he allegedly traveled from Topeka, Kansas, to Catoosa, to engage in sex with an 11-year-old female. Catoosa Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Jolly is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-258
Dennis Ray Thompson. Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Force in Indian Country; Aggravated Sexual Abuse by Threat in Indian Country; Failure to Register as a Sex Offender; and Commission of a Crime of Violence While Failing to Register as a Sex Offender. Dennis Ray Thompson, 64, a Choctaw Nation citizen, is charged with aggravated sexual abuse by force in Indian Country; aggravated sexual abuse by threat in Indian Country; failure to register as a sex offender; and commission of a crime of violence while failing to register as a sex offender after officers with the Tulsa Police Department caught him naked on top of the victim under a bridge in downtown Tulsa. Tulsa Police Department and FBI are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Briden is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-236
Dakota Dale Deckard. First Degree Burglary in Indian Country; Aggravated Identity Theft; Second Degree Burglary in Indian Country; Receipt of Stolen Property in Indian Country. Dakota Dale Deckard, 24, an Absentee-Shawnee citizen, is charged with first degree burglary in Indian Country; aggravated identity theft; four counts of second-degree burglary in Indian Country; and receipt of stolen property in Indian Country. Deckard allegedly broke into multiple locations, including a church, and stole property; was found in possession of a vehicle he knew to be stolen; and knowingly used identification and a debit card of another without their permission. The Sapulpa Police Department and FBI are the investigating agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Buscemi and Michael Harder are prosecuting the case. 23-CR-254
Terrall Lamar Johnson. Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute. Terrall Lamar Johnson, 32, is charged with possession of cocaine with intent to distribute after allegedly being found in possession of 5 kilograms of cocaine. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol and Drug Enforcement Administration are the investigating agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Bailey is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-257
Juventino Hernandez-Flores. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Juventino Hernandez-Flores, 32, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after being arrested by the Tulsa Police Department on July 10, 2023, for Assault with a Deadly Weapon-Domestic, and Domestic A&B in the Presence of a Minor. He had been previously removed to Mexico on July 25, 2016, at San Ysidro, California, and was removed again to Mexico on August 02, 2022, at Laredo Columbia Bridge, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-255
Miguel Betancourt-Baltazar. Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Miguel Betancourt-Baltazar, 53, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after being arrested by the Tulsa Police Department on unrelated charges. He had been previously removed on or about May 4, 2018, at or near Nogales, Arizona U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-253
Elmira Methamphetamine Dealer Pleads GuiltyRead the Press Release
ROCHESTER, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Robert J. Fairbanks, Jr., 58, of Lowman, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Charles J. Siragusa to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, which carries a maximum sentence of life in prison, and a $1,000,000 fine.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that Fairbanks was arrested on September 16, 2022, after the New York State Police Violent Gang and Narcotics Enforcement Team and the Elmira Police Department Drug Enforcement Unit executed a search warrant at his County Road 60 residence in Lowman. During the search, investigators recovered approximately 1,449 grams of methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, $3,961.00 in U.S. currency, a 12-gauge shotgun, and 29 rounds of 12-gauge ammunition.
The conviction was the culmination of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Brian Ratajczak, the Elmira Police Department, under the direction of Chief Kristen Thorne, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank A. Tarentino III, New York Field Division.
Sentencing is scheduled for November 7, 2023, at 9:15 a.m. before Judge Siragusa.
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Columbia Man Sentenced to over 8 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Heroin and FentanylRead the Press Release
COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — Jeffrey Tavoun Allen, 34, of Columbia, was sentenced to more than 8 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute and distribution of heroin and fentanyl.
Evidence presented to the court showed that in September 2020, investigators with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department (RCSD) made controlled buys of fentanyl-laced heroin from Allen. When Allen was arrested in December 2020, Allen was in possession of cocaine base, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. Allen also had plastic baggies used in packaging drugs and a digital scale.
In 2007, Allen was convicted in South Carolina state court for possession with intent to distribute cocaine base. In 2018, Allen was again convicted in state court for multiple counts of distributing heroin.
United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Allen to 100 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Richland County Sheriff’s Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Taylor is prosecuting the case.
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