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4 August 2022
Alaska Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Prison for Threatening Attack on Lafayette College in Northampton CountyRead the Press Release
PHILADELPHIA, PA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Gavin Lee Casdorph, 23, of Anchorage, Alaska, was sentenced to five years and three months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay over $7,700 in restitution and a $1,000 fine by United States District Court Judge Edward G. Smith for making false threats against Lafayette College in Easton, PA.
In April 2020, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of willfully making false threats in connection with claims he made online stating he planned to detonate several bombs across the Lafayette College campus. In 2018, while using the handle “BdanJafarSaleem.,” Casdorph posted on Twitter that he planned to bomb multiple locations on campus and pledged allegiance to ISIS. He included with his Twitter post an image of the ISIS flag and a photograph of several firearms. The defendant also sent a mass email to members of the College’s admissions staff containing similar disturbing threats and imagery.
Investigators quickly determined that the bomb threats were a hoax, and arrested Casdorph in Anchorage, Alaska in December 2018.
“This defendant thought he could make threats from the other side of the continent with impunity, but the dedicated agents of the FBI on this case proved him wrong,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Threats of mass violence and destruction, especially on school campuses or any public place, are taken extremely seriously by our Office and our federal partners. As was the case here, we will not stop until the culprits are identified, arrested and brought to justice.”
“The FBI takes all threats of violence seriously, as Gavin Casdorph learned the hard way,” said Jacqueline Maguire, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Philadelphia Division. “I hope today’s sentencing sends a message that hoax threats aren’t a joke, they’re a crime. Please don’t let keyboard courage short-circuit your future. Anyone who tries something like this shouldn’t be surprised when the FBI rolls up at your front door.”
This case was investigated by the Lafayette College Department of Public Safety, Easton Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Philadelphia and Anchorage Divisions. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph LaBar. Additional assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Alaska.
3 August 2022
Zadeh Kicks Owner and Chief Financial Officer Charged in $85 Million Wire Fraud and Bank Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
EUGENE, Ore.—The former owner and chief financial officer of Zadeh Kicks LLC, a now-defunct Oregon corporation that sold limited edition and collectible sneakers online, made their first appearances in federal court today after being charged with perpetrating a fraud scheme that allegedly cost customers more than $70 million in unfulfilled orders and defrauded financial institutions out of over $15 million.
Michael Malekzadeh, 39, a Eugene resident, has been charged by criminal information with wire fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud, and money laundering. Bethany Mockerman, 39, also of Eugene, has been charged with conspiring with Malekzadeh to commit bank fraud.
According to court documents, Malekzadeh started his business in 2013 by purchasing limited edition and collectible sneakers to resell online. Beginning as early as January 2020, Zadeh Kicks began offering preorders of sneakers before their public release dates, allowing Malekzadeh to collect money upfront before fulfilling orders. Malekzadeh advertised, sold, and collected payments from customers for preorders knowing he could not satisfy all orders placed.
For example, in 2021, Malekzadeh began selling preorders of Nike Air Jordan 11 Cool Grey sneakers. Zadeh Kicks received and accepted preorder sales of over 600,000 pairs of sneakers, resulting in payments to Malekzadeh of more than $70 million. Malekzadeh had no way of acquiring the quantity of sneakers needed to fill the preorders received. In fact, he was only able to acquire just over 6,000 pairs. Customers were either left with unfulfilled orders or they received a combination refund of cash and Zadeh Kicks gift cards.
By April 2022, Malekzadeh owed customers more than $70 million in undelivered sneakers and unknown additional millions held by customers in worthless company gift cards.
In her role as Zadeh Kicks chief financial officer, Mockerman conspired with Malekzadeh to provide false and altered financial information to numerous financial institutions—including providing altered bank statements—on more than 15 bank loan applications. Together, Mockerman and Malekzadeh received more than $15 million in loans from these applications.
As part of the government’s ongoing criminal investigation, federal agents have seized millions of dollars in cash and luxury goods that Malekzadeh acquired with the proceeds of his fraud. The seized items include nearly 100 watches, some valued at over $400,000, jewelry, and hundreds of luxury handbags. The government also seized nearly $6.4 million in cash which was the result Malekzadeh’s sale of watches and luxury cars manufactured by Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, and others.
Malekzadeh and Mockerman are cooperating with the government’s investigation, including the seizure of assets described above. Both made their first appearances in federal court today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mustafa T. Kasubhai and were released conditions pending further court proceedings.
If you or someone you know were a Zadeh Kicks customer with unfulfilled orders or otherwise believe you were defrauded by Malekzadeh or Mockerman, the FBI wants to hear from you. Please visit FBI.gov/ZadehKicks to complete a brief online questionnaire. Your voluntary responses will assist with the FBI’s ongoing criminal investigation and help to identify you as a potential crime victim. Based on your responses, you may be contacted by the FBI for more information.
This case is being investigated by IRS–Criminal Investigations, FBI, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with assistance from the Oregon Intellectual Property Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gavin W. Bruce and Quinn P. Harrington are prosecuting the case. The related asset seizures and forfeitures are being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie de Villiers and the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Asset Recovery and Money Laundering Division.
A criminal information is only an accusation of a crime, and defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
York County Man Charged with Theft of Federal Program FundsRead the Press Release
HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Leonard Hart, age 50, of Mount Wolf, PA, was charged in a criminal information with theft of Federal Program Funds.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the criminal information alleges that in May 2018, Hart obtained by fraud and misapplied approximately $6,400 from Lincoln Charter School, York, Pennsylvania, while employed as the CEO and Principal of the school. During that time, the school received grants funded by the U.S Department of Education.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ravi Romel Sharma is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is 10 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.
Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Wilmington Man Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison on Firearm ChargeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that Jeremy Johnson, 34, of Wilmington, was sentenced to 5 years in prison for possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika pronounced the sentence.
According to court documents Johnson was arrested by the Wilmington Police Department after he was observed on live-stream surveillance video conducting suspected narcotics transactions in and around a parked Mercedes. A subsequent search of that Mercedes uncovered two firearms, over 68 grams of cocaine, oxycodone pills, and three digital scales.
Commenting on the case, U.S. Attorney Weiss stated, “Our community continues to face daily the lethal consequences of a gun epidemic and a drug epidemic. Individuals like the defendant who make the choice to possess guns while engaging in drug dealing activity put their own lives at risk, as well as the lives of innocent bystanders. Our office is committed to ensuring that individuals who choose to engage in such dangerous and illegal behavior face the consequences that they deserve.”
“The combination of drugs and firearms is often deadly, especially when firearms are used by someone engaged in activities like selling drugs,” said ATF Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby. “The more people bring drugs and the threat of gun violence into a community, the harder it is for the law-abiding citizens in that community to have a sense of safety or normalcy. ATF will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners and prosecutors to ensure that offenders bringing this kind of crime and instability into Delaware neighborhoods are held accountable.”
This case was investigated by the Wilmington Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse S. Wenger.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:21-cr-23.
Wilder Man Sentenced to more than 10 years for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Heroin, Cocaine, and FentanylRead the Press Release
BOISE - A Wilder man was sentenced to 124 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine, and fentanyl.
According to court records, James Donavan Conour, 44, of Wilder, sold another person one pound of methamphetamine in exchange for $3,000 on January 21, 2021. Three months later, law enforcement officers learned that Conour was distributing controlled substances from a residence in Caldwell, Idaho. Law enforcement officers executed a search of the residence and found 25 pounds of methamphetamine, one and a half pounds of heroin, one pound of cocaine, 20 grams of psilocybin (commonly referred to as mushrooms), and several thousand fentanyl pills. Law enforcement officers also found tools commonly used by drug traffickers to repackage their controlled substances for sale such as a digital scale and empty zip loc baggies. In addition to the seized controlled substances, law enforcement officers also seized $10,395 in illicit drug proceeds and a Jaguar model XF used to transport controlled substances.
Conour has a criminal history spanning over 30 years with prior state convictions for aggravated assault, robbery, theft, injury to child, possession of a controlled substance, unlawful possession of a firearm, and witness intimidation.
U.S. District Judge Scott W. Skavdahl, from the District of Wyoming, sitting by designation, also ordered Conour to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Conour pled guilty to the charge on November 3, 2021.
U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, of the District of Idaho, made the announcement and commended the cooperative efforts of the Drug Enforcement Administration; Nampa Police Department; Meridian Police Department; Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; Idaho Department of Correction Probation and Parole; and the City-County Narcotics Unit, which led to the charges.
This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant United States Attorney hired by the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office with funds provided by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is part of the Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) created by Congress with the Anti-Drug Abuse Act of 1988. It provides assistance to federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies operating in areas determined to be critical drug-trafficking regions of the United States. Idaho is part of the Oregon-Idaho HIDTA. The Idaho HIDTA is a collaboration of local, multi-jurisdictional law enforcement drug task forces, and prosecuting agencies dedicated to addressing regional drug trafficking organizations that operate in Ada, Canyon, Bannock, Kootenai, and Malheur Counties.
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Whiting Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
A man who received child pornography was sentenced August 2, 2022 to 5 years in federal prison.
Dason Ku, age 42, from Whiting, IA, received the prison term after a May 11, 2022, guilty plea to receipt of child pornography. At his plea hearing, Ku admitted that on October 24, 2018, he knowingly received visual depictions of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct.
Ku was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Ku was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $15,000 in restitution to victims. He must also serve a 5-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ron Timmons and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation.
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.”
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-4098.
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Wheeling man admits to firearms chargeRead the Press Release
WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Darius Alexander Savage, of Wheeling, West Virginia, has admitted to a firearms charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Savage, 24, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Stealing Firearm from a Dealer.” Savage admitted to stealing three pistols from a licensed firearms dealer in February 2022 in Ohio County.
Savage faces up to 10 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $250,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton J. Reid is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the West Virginia State Police, and the Ohio County Sheriff’s Office investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided.
Watertown Medical Practice to Pay $850,000 to Resolve False Claims Act AllegationsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – North Country Neurology, P.C., a physician-owned medical practice located in Watertown, New York, has agreed to pay $850,000 for what it admitted was “improper” and “reckless” billing to the federal government for medical services, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman.
“The integrity of our federal health care system depends on accurate and honest billing by medical providers,” said United States Attorney Freedman. “While North Country Neurology will pay a steep price for submitting false claims for payment to Medicare, I commend the practice and its management for accepting responsibility for its past actions and for implementing forward-looking compliance measures in response to our investigation to assure systems are in place to facilitate and promote ethical and legal conduct in the future.”
North Country Neurology employed physicians and a physician assistant who rendered care to Medicare beneficiaries. In certain circumstances, Medicare allows practices to bill for services rendered by a non-physician practitioner (NPP), including a physician assistant, “incident to” the services that are personally rendered by a physician. These services, even though not personally rendered by a physician, may be billed in a physician’s name if several requirements are met. One such requirement is that a physician directly supervise the NPP rendering the services, meaning that a physician is present in the office suite and immediately available to furnish assistance and direction throughout the procedure. Although Medicare will reimburse practices for certain procedures rendered by NPPs without a physician’s direct supervision, such services are reimbursed at a lesser rate than service rendered or directly supervised by a physician.
North Country Neurology admitted that, on 120 occasions from September 2015 through June 2019, it “submitted or caused to be submitted claims for payment to Medicare that improperly listed a physician as the rendering provider for services rendered by a physician assistant when no physician was physically present in the office and immediately available to furnish assistance and direction throughout the performance of the procedure.” The practice further admitted that it “knew or should have known the requirements of incident-to billing and that it was improper to submit claims to Medicare in a physician’s name for services rendered by an NPP when no physician was in the office” because, among other reasons, its billing company had informed the practice’s owner of separate incident-to billing violations several years earlier.
North Country Neurology also improperly billed Medicare for the drug Botox, even though the same Botox had already been paid for by other insurers. From March 2015 through February 2021, North Country Neurology purchased Botox for its Medicare patients, while its other patients purchased Botox at a specialty pharmacy and had it shipped to the practice. The practice admitted that on approximately 761 occasions during this period, its providers administered and the practice billed Medicare for Botox that was paid for by another insurer “in reckless disregard to the fact that Medicare reimbursement for the administration of Botox included reimbursement for the cost of the drug being administered.”
North Country Neurology acknowledged that, during the period covered by the settlement agreement, it “had an insufficient compliance program, and one that was not well-suited to identify fraud, waste, and abuse.” Shortly after learning of the United States’ investigation, the practice voluntarily retained a third-party compliance and practice-management consultant to help it develop and implement various practices and procedures to ensure compliance with federal rules and regulations going forward.
“This settlement is another example of our commitment to holding the health care industry accountable for proper billing practices,” said Special Agent in Charge Scott J. Lampert of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Office of Investigations. “Along with our law enforcement partners, HHS-OIG will continue to ensure that individuals and entities billing federal health care programs do so in an honest manner.”
The investigation and settlement were the result of a coordinated effort among the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York, HHS-OIG, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service Northeast Field Office. The United States was represented by Assistant United States Attorney Adam J. Katz.
Washington, D.C. Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges in Maryland for Carjacking and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of ViolenceRead the Press Release
Greenbelt, Maryland – James Albert Borum, age 19, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty on July 29, 2022, to federal charges of carjacking and to brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Sobocinski of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Chief Marcus Jones of the Montgomery County Police Department; Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County Police Department; Chief Robert J. Contee III of the Metropolitan Police Department; United States Attorney for the District of Columbia Matthew M. Graves; Montgomery County State’s Attorney John McCarthy; and Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Aisha Braveboy.
According to his guilty plea, in June 2021, Borum and his accomplices committed a series of carjackings in Montgomery and Prince George’s Counties. At the time, Borum was on pre-trial supervision related to charges in Washington, D.C. and was wearing an ankle monitor. According to the plea agreement, Borum and an accomplice participated in four carjackings and an attempted carjacking. Borum admitted that a firearm was brandished in three of the carjackings.
As detailed in the plea agreement, on June 4, 2021, Victim A was beaten and carjacked by Borum and an accomplice, who also stole the victim’s cell phone. Victim A’s wallet, which contained several items, including a bank card, was inside the vehicle at the time of the carjacking. Law enforcement recovered Victim A’s bank card and a social security card in the name of Victim A’s spouse from Borum’s bedroom during a search on July 1, 2021.
On June 10, 2021, Borum and his accomplice committed another carjacking in Silver Spring, Maryland. After Victim B had parked his car, he began walking into a nearby apartment courtyard. Borum and his accomplice followed Victim B and approached Victim B in the courtyard. Borum and the accomplice pointed a handgun at Victim B’s forehead and stated, “I’ll kill you. Give me the keys.” Victim B gave Borum and the accomplice his keys and the carjackers drove away in Victim B’s car. A global positioning device in Victim B’s vehicle placed it near Borum’s home most of the time when the vehicle was not in use following the carjacking.
According to the plea agreement, on June 18, 2021, Borum and an accomplice attempted to carjack Victim C in a parking garage in the 8700 block of Cameron Street in Silver Spring. Borum and his accomplice demanded Victim C’s keys, but she refused to give them up. Borum and the accomplice grabbed for Victim C’s purse and a struggle ensued. Neither Borum nor his accomplice were able to obtain Victim C’s keys, and both men fled as another vehicle pulled into the parking garage.
Surveillance footage obtained from the Rhode Island Avenue, Silver Spring, and Wheaton Metro stations both before and after the attempted carjacking shows Borum and his accomplice wearing clothing that matched the clothing worn by the carjackers. The footage also shows Borum wearing an ankle monitor and a distinctive white sweatshirt. The sweatshirt was later recovered from Borum’s residence.
As detailed in the plea agreement, on June 18, 2021, Borum and his accomplice carjacked Victim D, who was sitting in his car in the parking lot in the 3500 block of East West Highway in Hyattsville, Maryland. Victim D’s doors were unlocked and the windows were down. Borum and the accomplice opened the driver’s side door, pointed a gun at Victim D’s head, and told him to get out of the car. Borum and the accomplice pulled Victim D out of the vehicle, pushed him to the ground, then got into Victim D’s vehicle and drove away. Law enforcement tracked and recovered the vehicle later that evening in the 1200 block of Douglas Street, N.E. in Washington, D.C. The key to Victim D’s car was found in Borum’s residence.
Finally, on June 23, 2021, Victim E was carjacked by Borum and an accomplice carjacked Victim E as Victim E was entering his car in a parking garage in the 8700 block of Colesville Road in Silver Spring, Maryland. Borum and his accomplice approached Victim E from behind, held a black handgun at the left side of Victim E’s head, and repeated, “Give me the keys!” Victim E handed the carjackers his keys and wallet. Borum and the accomplice then fled in Victim E’s vehicle. Victim E’s vehicle was located by law enforcement five days later, parked on the same block as Borum’s residence. Borum’s fingerprints were identified on the car.
Borum and the government have agreed that, if the Court accepts the plea agreement, Borum will be sentenced to between 90 months and 169 months in federal prison. U.S. District Judge Theodore D. Chuang has scheduled sentencing for November 22, 2022 at 2:00 p.m.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN, an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime, is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. 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.
United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the FBI, the Montgomery County Police Department, the Prince George’s County Police Department, the Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, the Montgomery County State’s Attorney’s Office and the Prince George’s County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation and prosecution. Mr. Barron thanked Special Assistant United States Attorney Jared C. Engelking and Assistant United States Attorney Dana J. Brusca, who are prosecuting the case.
For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-neighborhoods-psnexile and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach.# # #
Verona Woman Sentenced to Prison for Role in Hustlas Don’t Sleep Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, PA -- A resident of Verona, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to 10 months’ imprisonment and three years of supervised release on her conviction of violation of federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
United States District Judge Horan imposed the sentence on Shania Wilson age 40.
According to information presented to the court, Wilson conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a quantity of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine base in the form commonly known as crack.
Wilson was involved with the Hustlas Don’t Sleep (HDS) drug trafficking organization. A Title III investigation intercepted communications which revealed that Wilson was re-distributing portions of the controlled substances she bought, providing feedback to HDS members about the quality of the product, sending other customers to HDS to make purchases, and other actions furthering the conspiracy.
Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
United States Attorney Chung commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Allegheny County Police, and the Monroeville Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Wilson.
Vermont Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Child Enticement and Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK – Dennis Lavigne, age 47, of Vermont, pled guilty today to attempting to coerce and entice a minor to engage in sexual acts with him and to transporting child pornography. The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Janeen DiGuiseppi, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
As part of his guilty plea, Lavigne admitted that between November 19-24, 2019, he exchanged sexually explicit text messages with an undercover officer posing as the mother of an 11-year-old child. In these messages, Lavigne expressed a desire to engage in sexually explicit conduct with the child. On November 24, 2019, Lavigne traveled from Vermont to Albany, with the intent to engage in sexual acts with the purported 11-year-old child. Lavigne was subsequently arrested and further admitted to transporting child pornography files, which law enforcement officials recovered from Lavigne’s phone. Many of the child pornography files featured the rape and sexual abuse of prepubescent minors, including infants.
Lavigne was a registered sex offender at the time of these crimes; he was previously convicted in Vermont of aggravated sexual assault of a victim under the age of 10.
Lavigne faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison, and a term of post-imprisonment supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino will sentence him on December 6, 2022.
This case was investigated by the FBI and its Child Exploitation Task Force, which includes members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, including the Colonie Police Department and New York State Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel L. Williams as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
United States Attorney's Office Files Civil Forfeiture Action to Recover Proceeds of Cryptocurrency Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
BOSTON – The United States Attorney’s Office filed a civil forfeiture action to recover 73,586 USDT (Tether), cryptocurrency alleged to be proceeds of an online investment fraud scheme. Tether is a unit of cryptocurrency that is equivalent in value to one U.S. dollar.
In January 2022, federal agents began investigating an investment fraud scheme that targeted a Massachusetts victim. The victim had been contacted in October 2021 through LinkedIn. After further communications in Chinese through another application, the victim was lulled into making what she believed was a legitimate cryptocurrency investment. The victim was induced to download an application that appeared to be a legitimate cryptocurrency platform but was fraudulent, and then invested money through that fraudulent site.
After the victim reported the crime, federal agents traced a portion of the funds the victim invested to another cryptocurrency wallet, resulting in the seizure of 73,586 USDT. It is a violation of federal law to use wire communications as part of a scheme to defraud or to obtain money or property by means of false or fraudulent pretenses. A civil forfeiture action allows third parties to assert claims to property, which must be resolved before the property can be forfeited to the United States and returned to victims.
United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins and Andrew Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service, Boston Field Office, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra W. Amrhein of Rollins’ Asset Recovery Unit is prosecuting the civil forfeiture action.
The details contained in the civil forfeiture complaint are allegations. The United States Attorney’s Office has not filed a corresponding criminal action on the matter.
U.S. Attorney Rollins Announces "End Hate Now" Hotline for Reporting Acts of HateRead the Press Release
BOSTON – Today, United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins announced the rollout of:
1-83-END-H8-NOW
(1-833-634-8669)
The “End Hate Now” hotline is dedicated for reporting hate-based incidents or potential criminal activity. Massachusetts residents and visitors are encouraged to call the hotline to report concerning or troubling incidents of hate, potential hate crimes, or concerns regarding individuals believed to be espousing the hate-filled views or actions we learn of far too often in the wake of mass shootings and/or acts of hate-based violent extremism. Callers are encouraged to leave their contact information but may remain anonymous. At this time, the hotline is available in English, Spanish, Cantonese and French.
Hate crimes are illegal acts committed based on a victim’s perceived or actual race, color, religion, national origin, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or disability. Beliefs are not hate crimes. Distasteful ideologies, advocacy of political or social positions, use of discriminatory rhetoric, or the general philosophic embrace of biased or hate-filled beliefs are not crimes. Under federal law, investigations may not be based solely on an individual’s beliefs or their protected First Amendment activity.
“With the uptick in horrific mass-shootings and unimaginable acts of racially motivated violent extremism we have seen across our country, people are scared. In Massachusetts, we have recently seen multiple incidents of groups espousing deeply offensive and hurtful ideologies displayed on our streets. A recent act of hateful vandalism at the future PRYDE senior housing facility in Hyde Park threatened burning and death against the LGBTQ+ community. Enough is enough. My office is offering our residents and visitors a new outlet for bringing these critical and concerning issues seeped in bigotry and hatred to the attention of law enforcement,” said U.S. Attorney Rollins. “I am asking people – when you see hate, call this number and let us know. If you have serious concerns about a loved one, a friend, or even an acquaintance, call this number and let us know. We have dedicated resources to these important issues and stand ready to act when necessary. This too is a vitally important form of community policing.”
As part of this effort, U.S. Attorney Rollins also formally announced the leadership of her newly created Civil Rights and Human Trafficking Unit in her Criminal Division, which will focus on prosecuting cases involving civil rights violations, including hate crimes, human trafficking, and police use of excessive force. U.S. Attorney Rollins announced the establishment of this dedicated Unit at her Investiture in April 2022. It is now fully staffed and operational. The Unit will be led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley in the role of Unit Chief. Ms. Riley recently served as the Chief of Human Trafficking and Exploitation Unit for the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office, where she prosecuted and supervised cases involving human trafficking and online exploitation of youth and adults. During her more than 10 years as an Assistant District Attorney for Suffolk County, Ms. Riley prosecuted over 300 cases and secured successful convictions in over 50 jury trials. In 2015, she was awarded as the Suffolk County Outstanding Prosecutor of the Year. She is a graduate of the College of the Holy Cross and Suffolk University Law School. Ms. Riley will supervise a Unit of three federal prosecutors and exceptional support staff and will work closely with the Office’s existing five-member Civil Rights Unit in the Civil Division, led by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Serafyn.
“Protecting Massachusetts residents from violence and hate is the top priority of my administration,” stated U.S. Attorney Rollins. “In Massachusetts, we have a long history of standing up to hate and intolerance. Today, we continue that honored tradition. By establishing this 1-83-END-H8-NOW hotline and a Civil Rights and Human Trafficking Unit, my office is fully equipped and dedicated to fighting hate-fueled criminal activity across our Commonwealth.”
Two Norfolk Methamphetamine Distributors ConvictedRead the Press Release
NORFOLK, Va. – U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young convicted a Norfolk man and woman yesterday on charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, opening a drug-involved premises, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and marijuana, possession of firearms in relation to drug trafficking crimes, and being convicted felons in possession of firearms.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Vicente Andres, 61, and Margaret Sutton 51, operated a meth house on Danwood Drive in the City of Norfolk where they stored and sold methamphetamine and marijuana imported from Central California to Virginia, where they also possessed firearms in furtherance their drug trafficking activities. A search warrant executed on April 21, 2021, resulted in the recovery of about 10 pounds of pure methamphetamine, 10 pounds of marijuana, 3 firearms, and currency from the illegal sale of narcotics. The government presented evidence that established Andres had used the premises as a base of his methamphetamine operations for several years, and that Sutton joined his meth operation in early 2021.
Andres and Sutton face a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, and a maximum of life in prison on the drug and gun charges when sentenced on December 15. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. The 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; Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge for the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Washington Division; and Mike Goldsmith, Interim Chief of Norfolk Police, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young announced his verdict.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin M. Comstock and Matthew J. Heck 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. 2:21-cr-74.
Tangipahoa Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Gun Control ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – LOUIS BELLS, JR., age 21, a resident of Hammond, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 2, 2022, before U.S. District Judge Jay C. Zainey to being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, BELLS was arrested by law enforcement officers on November 11, 2021, after they witnessed him point a nine-millimeter pistol at a victim and then place the gun against the victim’s head. When BELLS was arrested, the gun had a round in the chamber, was off safe and in the firing position, with the firing hammer locked back.
BELLS was previously convicted of felonies for aggravated assault with a firearm and possession of heroin. BELLS faces up to ten years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years supervised release, and $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case is being 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 prosecution 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.
This case was investigated by the federal Drug Enforcement Administration, Hammond Police Department, Tangipahoa Parish Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, 21st Judicial District Attorney’s Office, St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Marshals Service. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers.
Swampscott Man Sentenced for Tax Scheme Targeting Greater Boston Congolese CommunityRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Swampscott man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston in connection with a scheme to defraud the Internal Revenue Service by falsely inflating taxpayer’s federal income tax refunds and diverting a portion of those refunds to accounts he and his co-conspirators controlled.
Boris Shadari, 46, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs to 30 months in prison and two years of supervised release. Shadari was also ordered to pay restitution of $496,082. On March 31, 2022, Shadari pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, three counts of filing a false tax return, three counts of aiding or assisting in filing a false tax return, two counts of theft of government funds, five counts of aggravated identity theft and one count of witness tampering. Co-conspirator Christian Zynga previously pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States in October 2021 and is scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 16, 2022.
“Mr. Shadari not only defrauded the federal government, but also took advantage of people in his own community, many of whom were hardworking immigrants who were not familiar with American tax laws,” said United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins. “Today’s sentence provides justice for members of the Congolese community in Greater Boston that Mr. Shadari targeted and exploited. Contact information, as well as general information on choosing a tax preparer and reporting concerns about tax preparers, is available in several languages on www.irs.gov.”
“In a scheme that was difficult to detect, Boris Shadari took advantage of dozens of hard-working members of his own community, betrayed their trust, and defrauded taxpayers in the process, all the while raking in almost half a million dollars for himself,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Boston Division. “Also troubling is Mr. Shadari’s attempt to intimidate one of his victims into lying to investigators. While today’s sentence holds him accountable for his criminal conduct, it also underscores the need for all of us to exercise due diligence when choosing a tax preparer.”
“Today’s sentencing should bring some measure of closure to the members of the Congolese community, whose vulnerability and trust Shadari preyed upon and exploited,” said Joleen D. Simpson, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation Division, Boston Office. “This sentencing ends a painful chapter for all those impacted by the defendant’s crimes and now holds him accountable for his predatory actions. Sadly, this crime is an all too common one and a stark reminder of the importance of selecting an honest tax preparer.”
“Through disguise and deceit, Mr. Shadari conned members of his community to trust him only to repay their trust with greed,” said Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division. “Today’s sentencing shows how using the U.S. Mail to facilitate any fraud scheme will not be tolerated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.”
From 2012 to 2018, Shadari and Zynga held Shadari out as a tax professional, targeting the Congolese community of Greater Boston. Until 2017, they took their customers’ tax information to a tax professional at a tax preparation company and provided the tax professional with false information concerning their customers’ dependents, dependent and childcare expenses and business income and losses in order to inflate the customers’ federal income tax refunds. They then caused the refunds to be split between the customers’ bank accounts and accounts they and their co-conspirators controlled. After 2017, Shadari prepared customers’ returns himself and added false information to the returns to inflate the refunds due. Shadari also failed to report the income he received from this scheme on his own tax returns. After Shadari became aware of the investigation, he told a taxpayer to lie to investigators about the information in the returns he had prepared for her and suggested she would owe thousands of dollars back to the IRS and that her immigration status in the United States could be compromised if she did not do as he instructed.
U.S. Attorney Rollins, FBI SAC Bonavolonta, IRS CI SAC Simpson and USPIS INC Larco-Ward made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen A. Kearney of Rollins’ Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit prosecuted the case.
St. Louis man sentenced to 10+ years on gun chargesRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark on Tuesday sentenced a convicted felon from St. Louis to more than 10 years in prison on gun charges.
Judge Clark sentenced Terrell Gunn, 43, to eight years and seven months in prison on a 2022 charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and two more years for violating his supervised release from a 2016 conviction on another felon in possession charge.
Gunn pleaded guilty to the 2022 charge in March, admitting that a search of his south St. Louis home by the U.S. Probation Office on Dec. 15, 2021 found six handguns, including two that were stolen, a stolen shotgun and an AK-47-style rifle. Gunn also had marijuana and hundreds of rounds of ammunition.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Probation Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski prosecuted the case
Shreveport Man Sentenced on Federal Charge of Second Degree Murder of U.S. Postal Service EmployeeRead the Press Release
SHREVEPORT, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Michael Jarred Gentry, 33, of Shreveport, Louisiana, was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr. on a charge of second degree murder. Gentry was sentenced to 480 months (40 years) in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.
On June 22, 2019, Antonio Williams, a U.S. Postal Service Letter Carrier, was delivering mail in Shreveport. Shortly after 11:00 a.m., Williams was carrying mail to an apartment on Dudley Drive. Inside that apartment was Gentry, armed with a semi-automatic rifle. As Williams approached the apartment, Gentry fired four shots through the front door, striking Williams twice. Mr. Williams was pronounced dead at a nearby hospital shortly thereafter.
Gentry entered his guilty plea to the charge of second degree murder on March 21, 2022 and the United States and Gentry agreed to the stipulated sentence of 40 years in prison.
“This is a difficult day for the family and friends of Antonio Williams,” stated U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “This family has suffered the tragic loss of a father and husband who cannot be replaced. Although we know that this sentence will not fill the void that these family members and friends have suffered, we hope that it brings them some comfort knowing that this defendant will serve such a lengthy sentence in federal prison where there is no parole. I would like to thank the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for their efforts in assisting with this investigation, as well as the Shreveport Police Department and federal agents with the ATF. It was because of their quick response and thorough investigation that we were able to bring this defendant to justice.”
“The sentencing of Michael Gentry for the murder of postal employee Antonio Williams brings to an end the investigation of a heinous crime,” said Scott Fix, Inspector in Charge of the Houston Division of the USPIS. “The safety and well-being of Postal Service employees is a top priority for the Postal Inspection Service, and every act of violence elicits an immediate and firm response. Postal Inspectors worked tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to seek justice for the victim and his family.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Shreveport Police Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and was prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Shannon.
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Rhode Island Woman Pleads Guilty to Stealing Public FundsRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Rhode Island woman, formerly of North Easton, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Boston to stealing approximately $74,000 in Veteran Affairs (VA) and Office of Personnel Management (OPM) benefits from a veteran she was supposed to be protecting.
Lisa Heino, 55, of Newport, R.I., pleaded guilty to two counts of theft of public funds. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Douglas P. Woodlock scheduled sentencing for Dec. 2, 2022. Heino was charged on June 1, 2022.
In May 2014, Heino was appointed by the Massachusetts state court to serve as the conservator for the victim who was a veteran and retired federal employee. Later, in October 2014, Heino became the OPM representative payee for the victim as well. As a court appointed conservator and representative payee, Heino had access to the federal VA and OPM monthly benefit payments that were directly deposited into the victim’s bank account. In this capacity, Heino transferred federal VA and OPM benefit payments from the victim’s bank account to her own bank account and used the funds for her own expenses. Specifically, from in or about June 2017 through August 2018, Heino stole or converted approximately $44,191 in VA funds she was not entitled to for her own use. Additionally, from in or about January 2017 through January 2019, Heino stole or converted approximately $29,853 in OPM funds she was not entitled to for her own use.
After Heino was removed as conservator in 2017 and representative payee in 2019, she continued to access the victim’s bank account and federal benefits. When interviewed by authorities, Heino admitted to withdrawing the benefit payments from the victim’s bank account and depositing the funds into her own account for her personal use while serving as conservator and representative payee.
The charges of theft of government funds each provide for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins; Christopher Algieri, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, Northeast Field Office; and Scott A. Rezendes, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of Personnel Management, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of Rollins’ Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case.
Repeat Domestic Abuser and Convicted Felon Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS – Anthony Hughes, 37, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on January 29, 2020, Hughes was stopped in his vehicle by Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers. Officers discovered a firearm inside a passenger’s purse, that Hughes admitted to possessing. Hughes is prohibited from possessing firearms due to multiple prior felony convictions, including criminal recklessness, stemming from a domestic assault where he bit a victim in the jaw and threatened her with a knife. When the victim’s minor son intervened, Hughes choked the child. Hughes was also previously convicted of misdemeanor domestic battery for repeatedly punching a victim in the face and choking her. Hughes also has a 2009 domestic battery conviction for assaulting his minor son.
Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, and Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department Chief Randal Taylor made the announcement.
The IMPD investigated the case. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives provided valuable assistance. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Judge James Patrick Hanlon. As part of the sentence, Judge Hanlon ordered that Hughes be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for three years following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Abhishek S. Kambli who prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of the LEATH Initiative (Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence), named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. A partnership among the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the LEATH Initiative focuses federal, state, and local law enforcement resources on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms.
Additionally, this case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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.
Readout of Justice Department Officials' Participation in National Night OutRead the Press Release
Yesterday, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland, Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco and Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta participated in the 39th Annual National Night Out. Established in 1984 from a Department of Justice Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) grant, the goal of National Night Out is to build relationships with and between communities and law enforcement. National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes police-community partnerships and neighborhood camaraderie to make our neighborhoods safer, better places to live. In most areas of the country, the program occurs annually on the first Tuesday of August.
“Public trust is essential to public safety, and the Justice Department is committed to strengthening the bonds of partnership between law enforcement and the communities we serve,” said Attorney General Garland. “Each year, National Night Out provides an important opportunity to build upon these efforts and to celebrate our shared obligations to each other as neighbors and as Americans.”
The Attorney General participated in two National Night Out events in Baltimore, alongside U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron of the District of Maryland. They joined the Baltimore Police Commissioner Michael S. Harrison at a community event organized by the No Boundaries Coalition and later visited a block party in the Western Police District. The Attorney General spoke with community members and local and federal law enforcement partners. Prior to the National Night Out events, the Attorney General met with staff of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Baltimore.
Deputy Attorney General Monaco and U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs attended two National Night Out events in Charleston and North Charleston, South Carolina, with the Charleston Police Department and North Charleston Police Department. The Deputy Attorney General visited Mall Park and Riverfront Park, where she heard from local law enforcement and community members working to strengthen partnerships throughout both neighborhoods. She also had an opportunity to talk with Deputy Chief Chito Walker of the Charleston Police Department and Chief Reggie Burgess of the North Charleston Police Department about their Department’s participation in the Department’s National Public Safety Partnership program which promotes public safety by providing participating communities with specialized law enforcement expertise and resources.
Associate Attorney General Gupta attended two National Night Out events with the U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia Jessica D. Aber. In Richmond, VA they joined Richmond Police Chief Gerald M. Smith, and other local law enforcement and community members, including representatives from the DEA. They discussed the Department’s funding for community policing and other community-police trust-building initiatives. The Associate Attorney General and Acting COPS Director Robert Chapman then participated in a Chesterfield County, VA National Night Out event, where they met with Colonel Jeffrey S. Katz, Chief of the Chesterfield County Police Department, and shared information about the Justice Department’s funding of National Night Out, which dates back to 1982.
Readout of Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco’s Trip to South CarolinaRead the Press Release
Deputy Attorney General (Deputy AG) Lisa O. Monaco traveled to South Carolina this week to see firsthand how the Justice Department is working with local communities to protect public safety.
The Deputy AG attended two National Night Out events on Tuesday evening in Charleston and North Charleston, South Carolina. Joined by U.S. Attorney Adair Ford Boroughs of the District of South Carolina, the Deputy AG talked with law enforcement officers from the Charleston Police Department (CPD) and the North Charleston Police Department (NCPD), as well as local residents working to strengthen partnerships throughout both communities.
She also spoke with CPD Deputy Chief Chito Walker and NCPD Chief Reggie Burgess about their agencies’ participation in the Justice Department’s National Public Safety Partnership National Public Safety Partnership program, which promotes public safety by providing participating communities with specialized law enforcement expertise and resources. Deputy AG Monaco thanked both departments for their partnership.
On Wednesday, the Deputy AG met in Charleston with members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office from across the District of South Carolina. She received a briefing from U.S. Attorney Ford Boroughs and her leadership team and hosted an “all-hands” meeting with the office’s prosecutors and professional staff to thank them for their work. The Deputy AG also convened a meeting with the heads of federal law enforcement agencies in South Carolina to discuss public safety issues, including violent crime and domestic terrorism.
Finally, the Deputy AG visited Mother Emanuel AME Church to pay her respects to the Emanuel Nine and survivors of the 2015 mass shooting.
Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty in Washington County Cocaine Trafficking RingRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to violating federal narcotics laws, United States Attorney Cindy K. Chung announced today.
Steve Miller, 50, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine from April of 2020 and continuing to November 19, 2020, before United States District Judge J. Nicholas Ranjan.
In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that in 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation began investigating a drug trafficking organization, of which Miller was a member, that operated throughout the greater Washington County area. Beginning in April of 2020 and continuing through October of 2020, the FBI received authorization to conduct a Title III wiretap investigation into the organization. Miller was intercepted agreeing to supply his codefendant with distribution quantities of cocaine. In addition to the intercepted communications, agents seized cocaine, cocaine base, heroin, fentanyl, firearms, ammunition, body armor, and bulk United States Currency from members of the organization.
Judge Ranjan scheduled sentencing for Nov. 30, 2022. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5,000,000, 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 Attorneys Mark V. Gurzo and Jerome A. Moschetta are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Pennsylvania State Police Drug Law Enforcement Division conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Miller.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Orem Man Convicted of Possession of Firearms as a Convicted Felon and Possession of Stolen FirearmsRead the Press Release
SALT LAKE CITY- On July 31, 2022, after a four-day trial, a federal jury in the District of Utah found James D. Brunson, 25, of Orem, guilty of possession of firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon and possession of stolen firearms.
At trial, federal prosecutors presented evidence that Brunson stole a duffle bag containing nine firearms from a residence in Orem. The duffle bag contained two shotguns; three handguns; one revolver; two .22 caliber rifles; an AR-15 rifle; and three boxes containing ammunition for the weapons. After obtaining search warrants, law enforcement officers tracked Brunson to an apartment complex in West Jordan. Prior to his arrest, officers witnessed Brunson remove a stolen 9mm handgun from his waistband and discard it in a nearby grassy area. Officers then arrested Brunson and recovered the discarded stolen handgun and six of the other stolen firearms from a nearby vehicle. Two of the firearms stolen by Brunson have not been located, and officers established that Brunson attempted to sell the firearms for cash to others prior to his arrest.
Brunson was convicted of possessing the 9mm handgun located inside of his waistband and the remaining firearms recovered from the vehicle as a convicted felon. Because the firearms were stolen, Brunson was also convicted of possessing stolen firearms.
Assistant United States Attorneys Angie Clifford and Samuel Pead tried the case against the defendant. Special Agents from the FBI and the Utah County Major Crimes Task force, including law enforcement officers from Orem Police Department and the Utah County Sheriff’s Office, conducted the investigation.
Sentencing in this matter is currently set for January 31, 2023.
Oneida County Woman Indicted for Conspiracy and Distribution of Methamphetamine, Heroin and Fentanyl, and for Illegally Possessing Defaced FirearmsRead the Press Release
ALBANY, NEW YORK - Alexis Miranda, age 27, of New Hartford, New York, was arraigned last week on charges relating to the distribution of methamphetamine, heroin and fentanyl, and for possessing four pistols from which the serial numbers had been removed and obliterated.
The announcement was made by United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and John B. DeVito, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
According to the indictment, Miranda conspired to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl between August 2019 and October 8, 2019, and distributed methamphetamine on September 12, 2019. The indictment also charges Miranda with possessing with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl on August 29, 2020 and possessing four defaced pistols. The charges in the indictment are merely accusations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Miranda had a detention hearing today before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Stewart and was released on conditions pending a trial before Chief United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby.
Miranda faces a maximum sentence of life in prison, a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, a fine of up to $10 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors.
This case was investigated by the ATF, the Schenectady County Sheriff’s Office, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and the New York State Police, with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 200 Months’ Imprisonment for Drug and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Steven Russell announced that Britt Hudgins, 50 of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Hudgins to 200 months’ imprisonment. After completing his term of imprisonment, Hudgins will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release as there is no parole in the federal system.
On May 18, 2021, Omaha Police Officers responded to a radio call of a vehicle blocking an alley near 48th and Erskine in Omaha. After officers determined that the vehicle was stolen, an inventory search revealed two .40 caliber Glock handguns, 210 grams of actual methamphetamine, and a cell phone. A search of the phone revealed that it belonged to Hudgins as his name and photograph were stored within.
On May 20, 2021, Omaha Police Detectives utilized a confidential informant who purchased 7.2 grams of methamphetamine from Hudgins at an Omaha location.
On August 17, 2021, Omaha Police Officers located and arrested Hudgins on a federal warrant related to an indictment charging the above crimes. In his possession officers located a 9mm handgun.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department. It is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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.
New Jersey Pharmacy Admits Illegal Distribution of Prescription Opioids and Kickback Scheme and Agrees to Criminal and Civil PenaltiesRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Bergen County pharmacy today admitted its role in a conspiracy to illegally distribute prescription opioids and to give kickbacks to healthcare providers, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced.
Dunn Meadow LLC (doing business as Dunn Meadow Pharmacy) of Fort Lee, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Julien Neals to an information charging it with conspiring to illegally distribute prescription fentanyl and giving kickbacks to healthcare providers. Dunn Meadow also signed a civil settlement with the United States for violations of the False Claims Act and the Controlled Substances Act.
According to documents filed in this case, statements made in court, and the terms of the civil settlement:
Dunn Meadow was a licensed retail pharmacy that sent controlled substances and other prescription medications to patients via mail throughout the United States, including highly addictive and dangerous transmucosal immediate release fentanyl (TIRF) medications. Dunn Meadow had contracts with and received payments from pharmaceutical companies that marketed and sold TIRF medications, including INSYS Pharma Inc.
From 2015 through 2019, Dunn Meadow dispensed prescription TIRF medications and other controlled substances knowing that the prescriptions were not written for a legitimate medical purpose. Dunn Meadow knowingly filled prescriptions for controlled substances, including TIRF medications, for patients exhibiting suspicious and drug-seeking behavior, including patients that repeatedly requested early refills, paid thousands of dollars in cash for their prescriptions, or requested that prescriptions be sent to suspicious or inappropriate locations including hotels, casinos, and elementary schools.
Despite warnings from third parties, including some of its suppliers, Dunn Meadow continued to fill prescriptions for TIRF medications and other opioids written by doctors with suspicious and problematic prescribing habits, sometimes without receiving an original prescription. After two different pharmaceutical suppliers terminated supply agreements with Dunn Meadow, Dunn Meadow submitted applications to other suppliers stating that no supplier had ever suspended, ceased, or restricted controlled substance sales to Dunn Meadow.
Dunn Meadow also admitted that it conspired to offer kickbacks to health care providers and pharmaceutical company sales representatives in violation of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, in the form of lunches, dinners, and happy hours to induce them to send TIRF prescriptions to Dunn Meadow. Dunn Meadow admitted that its violations of the statute caused a loss to federally funded healthcare programs of over $4.5 million.
In addition, Dunn Meadow and its parent company, Allegheny Pharma LLC entered a civil settlement with the United States to resolve Dunn Meadow’s civil liability for violations of the False Claims Act and the Controlled Substances Act. Dunn Meadow’s criminal restitution payment will be applied to the civil resolution. Dunn Meadow has also agreed to pay up to $50 million dollars over the next five years to resolve its civil liability if it generates future revenue.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited diversion investigators of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Susan A. Gibson; special agents of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations-New Jersey Field Office, under the Direction of Special Agent in Charge Scott J. Lampert; special agents the U.S. Department of Defense, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, New Jersey Resident Agency, under the direction of Patrick J. Hegarty; and special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan Peck and Emma Spiro of the Criminal Division, Susan Pappy of the Civil Division, and Trial Attorney Douglas Rosenthal of the Department of Justice’s Civil Division.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that TYRONE BROWN, 27, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson in Hartford to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Brown was arrested on August 9, 2021, after a court-authorized search of his residence on Stevens Street in New Haven revealed a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol.
Brown’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for firearm, robbery, burglary and larceny offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
Brown has been detained since his arrest. On April 25, 2022, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon.
This matter was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) and the New Haven Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Gresham.
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.
New Britain Man Charged with Fentanyl Distribution and Firearm Possession OffensesRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Hartford Police Chief Jason Thody today announced that a federal grand jury in Hartford has returned an indictment charging THOMAS RIVERA, 29, of New Britain, with fentanyl distribution and firearm possession offenses.
The indictment was returned on July 21, 2022, and Rivera was arrested yesterday. Following his arrest he appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert A. Richardson in Hartford who ordered Rivera detained.
As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, on June 3, 2022, Hartford Police stopped a vehicle Rivera was operating and found him in possession of a bag containing approximately 140 grams of fentanyl, approximately 370 sleeves of fentanyl, a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol, and $1,323 in cash. Rivera was arrested on state charges at that time and subsequently posted a $1 million bond.
The indictment alleges that Rivera’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for firearm possession and drug distribution offenses. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.
The indictment charges Rivera with one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years; one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which carries mandatory consecutive prison term of at least five years; and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years.
U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Hartford Task Force and the Hartford Police Department’s Vice, Intelligence and Narcotics Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Ruff.
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.
Mobile, Alabama Man Pleads Guilty to Shooting K9 and Possessing a Firearm as a FelonRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – A Mobile, Alabama man pled guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of animal crushing, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Kurt Thielhorn of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Richard J. McGuire, 44, pled guilty on August 2, 2022, in U.S. District Court in Gulfport.
According to court records, on March 29, 2022, Moss Point Police officers responded to an alarm call at Tay’s BBQ/Shell Station located on Highway 63 in Moss Point. They began searching the area and located McGuire behind another business. McGuire fled when officers approached him.
Moss Point Police K9 “Buddy” was released to track McGuire. Buddy pursued McGuire into a wooded area when officers heard two gunshots. Buddy returned having been shot in the chest. Officers later apprehended McGuire who possessed a sawed-off shotgun and body armor, which he is prohibited from possessing as a previously convicted felon. Buddy survived and will return to work soon.
McGuire will be sentenced on November 15, 2022. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for possession of a firearm and 7 years for animal crushing. A federal district judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.
Missouri man sentenced to 16+ years in prison for tricking boy on Snapchat into sending child pornographyRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Wednesday sentenced a Missouri man to 16 years and eight months in prison for using Snapchat to trick a boy into sending him child pornography.
In 2019, Martin Dwayne Isaia Mitchell, of Macon County, set up a fake Snapchat account in which he pretended to be female and then reached out to a 15-year-old boy that he knew. Mitchell, who was 20 at the time, convinced the boy to record a video of him masturbating and send it to Mitchell. Using a different fake female profile, Mitchell contacted the boy again in 2020, and sent him explicit videos to entice the boy to send pictures in return. Once Mitchell received the teen’s explicit pictures, he threatened to send them to others unless the teen paid $500.
Mitchell created a third fake profile and contacted an adult male that he knew in an attempt to obtain more explicit photos, but the male figured out who he was and told Mitchell he was going to report him to police. Mitchell then said he’d pay $1,000 to the man to not report him.
Mitchell pleaded guilty March 25 to one felony count of production of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison. Mitchell will also be on supervised release for life after his release from prison.
The case was investigated by the FBI, the Macon County Sheriff's Office, the Macon Police Department and the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle T. Bateman is prosecuting the case.
Mission Man Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault by Striking, Beating, and Wounding was sentenced on August 1, 2022, by U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno.
Talon Bettelyoun, Sr., age 31, was sentenced to 11 months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release, and ordered to pay a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $25.
Bettelyoun was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 8, 2022. He pled guilty on May 12, 2022.
The conviction stemmed from an incident that occurred on October 22, 2021, in Todd County, wherein Bettelyoun assaulted his domestic partner.
This case was investigated by the Rosebud Sioux Tribe Law Enforcement Services. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kirk Albertson prosecuted the case.
Bettelyoun was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
Miami Doctor Sentenced to Federal Prison for Committing $38 Million Health Care Fraud Scheme, Spending Proceeds on Beachfront Condos and Luxury VehiclesRead the Press Release
Miami, Florida – Armando Valdes, 63, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Kathleen M. Williams to 60 months in federal prison for directing a $38 million health care fraud scheme. Valdes was also ordered to forfeit four real estate properties, including a beachfront condominium unit in Pompano Beach, as well as numerous luxury vehicles, including a Cadillac Escalade and a Tesla Model S, all of which he had purchased using the ill-gotten proceeds of his fraud scheme.
From February 2015 through July 2021, Valdes owned and operated Gasiel Medical Services, Corp., a medical clinic in Miami, Florida. Through Gasiel Medical Services, Valdes submitted approximately $38 million in fraudulent claims to United Healthcare and Blue Cross Blue Shield for infusions of the prescription drug Infliximab. Infliximab, known by the brand name Remicade, is an expensive prescription immunosuppressive approved for the treatment of adult and pediatric Crohn’s disease, adult and pediatric ulcerative colitis, rheumatoid and psoriatic arthritis, ankylosing spondylitis, and plaque psoriasis. Infliximab is one of the most expensive prescription drugs on the market—a single dose can have a retail price of nearly $10,000. Despite claiming approximately $38 million in reimbursements for infusions of Infliximab purportedly provided to patients of Gasiel Medical Services, Valdes admitted as part of his guilty plea earlier this year, that he never provided even a single infusion of the drug, nor did patients of the clinic require the medication.
Valdes attempted to conceal his involvement in this fraud scheme by distancing himself on paper from the medical clinic. For example, Valdes employed a 91-year-old physician at Gasiel Medical Services who rarely treated patients and never prescribed Infliximab, but who Valdes listed as the rendering provider for all $38 million of the fraudulently billed Infliximab infusions. Similarly, even though Valdes effectively owned and operated Gasiel Medical Services, he paid another individual to act as its “nominee owner.” This other individual, and not Valdes, was listed as the president and registered agent of the clinic in corporate records and other official documents.
Juan Antonio Gonzalez, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Robert M. DeWitt, Acting Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Miami Field Office announced the sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael B. Homer prosecuted this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Annika Miranda is handling asset forfeiture.
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 21-cr-20590.
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Mexican Man Sentenced to Prison for Document FraudRead the Press Release
A man who used a false identification document and someone else’s social security number was sentenced today to eight months in federal prison.
Juan Perez-Astello, age 45, a citizen of Mexico illegally present in the United States and residing in Postville, Iowa, received the prison term after an April 21, 2022 guilty plea to one count of unlawful use of an identification document.
In a plea agreement, Perez-Astello admitted he used a fraudulent Social Security card bearing someone else’s name and Social Security number when he completed employment and tax forms in November 2020 at a business in Lime Springs, Iowa. On the employment application, Perez-Astello falsely claimed to be a United States citizen. However, Perez-Astello had been deported to Mexico in January 1999, November 2002, and August 2014 and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government after each removal. Perez-Astello was convicted in the Northern District of Iowa in May 2014 of illegal reentry into the United States after deportation and sentenced to six months’ imprisonment. Perez-Astello was also convicted in the Iowa District Court for Allamakee County in December 1998 of possession of a fraudulent Permanent Resident card, also known as a “green card,” and a fraudulent Social Security card immediately prior to his first deportation.
Perez-Astello was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Perez-Astello was sentenced to eight months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Perez-Astello is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by Department of Homeland Security, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl.
The case file number is 21-CR-2030.
Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.
Mescalero man charged with assault 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 Julius Mendez was charged by criminal complaint with assault resulting in serious bodily injury and assault of a spouse, intimate partner or dating partner by strangling. Mendez, 30, of Mescalero, New Mexico, and an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, made an initial appearance in federal court today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled.
According to the complaint, on April 22, Mendez allegedly attacked the victim as she slept in her home on the Mescalero Apache Reservation. The victim, who is also an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, awakened to Mendez allegedly kicking her. Mendez allegedly began damaging the victim’s home, then returned to kicking and punching her until she lost consciousness.
As a result of Mendez’s alleged assault, the victim suffered serious injuries to her head, face and neck and had severe bruising over most of her body.
A complaint is only an allegation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Mendez faces up to 10 years in prison.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Matilda McCarthy Villalobos and Eliot Neal are prosecuting the case.
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Maryland man admits to drug chargeRead the Press Release
MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Dominick Mickens, of Hagerstown, Maryland, has admitted to a drug charge, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced.
Mickens, 39, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Heroin, Fentanyl, Cocaine Base, and Cocaine Hydrochloride.” Mickens admitted to working with others to distribute fentanyl, heroin, cocaine base, and cocaine hydrochloride from August 2020 to June 2021 in Berkeley County and elsewhere.
Mickens faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lara Omps-Botteicher and Timothy D. Helman are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The Eastern Panhandle Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided.
Man who escaped St. Ann jail sentenced to 15 years in prisonRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Catherine D. Perry on Tuesday sentenced a St. Louis man who escaped the St. Ann, Mo. jail last year to 15 years in prison.
Walter J. Wilson Jr., 39, was convicted by a federal jury in March of an escape charge and a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Wilson was one of three federal detainees who kicked out a window in the jail on July 9, 2021 and then climbed out. They were arrested by the U.S. Marshals the next day.
Wilson was in jail awaiting trial after a Jan. 6, 2021 indictment on the gun charge. On Oct. 22, 2020, officers of the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department found a handgun during a traffic stop. Wilson has prior convictions for robbery, assault and failure to register as a sex offender, court records show.
Another escapee, Jason William Woolbright, 48, of Jefferson County, was sentenced in June to four years and nine months in prison on gun and escape charges. Drug, gun and escape charges against the third man, Joshua Brown, 32, are still pending.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Will Scharf prosecuted the case.
Man and Woman Convicted in Connection with False Statement to a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
Gulfport, Miss. – Two individuals were convicted in connection with making a false statement to a federal officer, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent-in-Charge Jermicha L. Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Jackson Field Office.
Stevie Allen Stoudenmier, Jr., 37, of Hattiesburg, pled guilty to the federal felony of unauthorized possession of an identity document with intent to defraud the United States. Kimberly Ann Hinton, 31, also of Hattiesburg, was sentenced for the related offense of misprision of felony in connection with a material misrepresentation to a National Park Service Law Enforcement Ranger.
According to court documents, on February 4, 2021, a National Park Service Ranger conducted a traffic stop of Stoudenmier in the Gulf Islands National Seashore, Davis Bayou location in Jackson County. Stoudenmier was driving a vehicle registered to Hinton with Hinton as the front seat passenger. When Stoudenmier identified himself to the Law Enforcement Ranger, Stoudenmier gave the Ranger the name, Social Security Number, date of birth and other stolen identity information of a man from Picayune, Mississippi. Hinton then produced the Identification Card of the victim.
Stoudenmier was issued misdemeanor citations in the name of the victim from Picayune. Later, the victim contacted the Government after receiving the summons for the citations and notice to appear in federal court in Gulfport. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the National Park Service investigated the complaint and Defendant Stoudenmier was identified using official law enforcement “body-cam” video of the traffic stop and “body-cam” video regarding a separate incident with Stoudenmier and Hinton using the same ID card with the Biloxi Police Department.
Hinton, who previously pled guilty, was sentenced to “time served” (effectively five months and one day), as well as to pay a $1,500 fine and to serve one year of supervised release.
Stoudenmier is scheduled to be sentenced on November 15, 2022, and faces a maximum sentence of 5 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case was investigated by the FBI, the National Park Service, and the Biloxi Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stan Harris is the prosecutor for the case.
Man Sentenced to Two Years for Possession of Stolen GunsRead the Press Release
A Carrollton man who stole five guns from a storage unit was sentenced Tuesday to more than two years in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Chad E. Meacham.
Eden Navarrete-Ochoa, 22, was indicted along with coconspirator Daniel Tavira-Alocer, 23, in August 2021. Mr. Navarete-Ochoa pleaded guilty in March 2022 to possession of a stolen firearm and was sentenced to 27 months in federal prison. (His coconspirator’s case is still pending; he is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.)
On Oct. 10, 2020, Mr. Navarete-Ochoa burglarized a storage building in Coppell, Texas, and stole five firearms: a Maadi AK-47 style rifle, a Colt .45-caliber pistol, a NA Arms .22 magnum revolver, a Winchester shotgun, and a Norinco sporting rifle.
He was arrested shortly after the burglary. At his sentencing hearing, prosecutors introduced into evidence photographs of some the firearms, which law enforcement recovered from the vehicle that he and Tavira-Alcocer had been occupying:
In plea papers, Mr. Navarete-Ochoa admitted to possession of the stolen guns.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives’ Dallas Field Division conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Coppell and Carrolton Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney George Leal is prosecuting the case.
Man Sentenced to 97 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
FORT WAYNE – Jaime Renteria-Lopez, 28 years old, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Holly A. Brady on his plea of guilty to distributing a controlled substance and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Renteria-Lopez was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to documents in the case, Renteria-Lopez was carrying a firearm on October 28, 2019, which he carried during and in relation to his drug dealing activities. Later, on January 7, 2020, Renteria-Lopez distributed about two ounces of heroin to law enforcement.
This case was the result of a joint investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Wayne Police Department in coordination with the FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force, which includes the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Indiana State Police, the Allen County Sheriff’s Department, and the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Anthony W. Geller and Brent A. Ecenbarger.
This case was being 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.
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Lynnwood, Washington, man indicted for hate crime and interstate threats of racially motivated violenceRead the Press Release
Seattle – A 37-year-old Lynnwood, Washington man indicted today by a federal grand jury for a hate crime and four counts of interstate threats, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. Joey David George will be arraigned on the indictment on August 11, 2022. George remains detained at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac, Washington.
“By law, the decision to charge a hate crime is appropriately deliberate – with consultation and approval from DOJ’s Civil Rights Division in Washington DC,” said U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. “In this case, the hate-filled threats to kill, based on race, are fittingly being prosecuted as a hate crime.”
According to records filed in the case, on July 19 and 20, 2022, George allegedly telephoned a grocery store in Buffalo, New York and threatened to shoot Black people in the store. In the second call George allegedly ranted about a “race war.” Law enforcement traced the phone number and identified George as the person who made the call.
In addition to the calls to Buffalo, George is charged in connection with a May 2022, call to a restaurant in San Bruno, California. In that call George allegedly threatened to shoot Black and Hispanic patrons in the restaurant. As the restaurant is a place of public accommodation, it is charged as a hate crime: Interference with a Federally Protected Activity.
Additionally, George is charged with making interstate threats to a business in Maryland, saying he intended to shoot Black people at the store. The fourth count of the indictment charges him with making interstate threats to bomb a restaurant in Connecticut.
The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Making interstate threats is punishable by up to five years in prison. Interfering with a federally protected activity is punishable by up to ten years in prison.
The case is being investigated by the FBI with the assistance of multiple local police departments. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas Woods and Rebecca Cohen in consultation with the Department of Justice Civil Rights Division.
george_ind_cr22-109rsm.pdfLowell Man Indicted for Possessing Half a Kilogram of Methamphetamine Intended for DistributionRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Lowell man was indicted today by a federal grand jury in Boston on methamphetamine charges and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
Ravouth Chhoy, 33, was indicted on one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.
“The highly addictive nature of methamphetamine, combined with the destruction it causes to the health of its users, makes it a lethal threat to the well-being of our communities,” said United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins. “We believe that Mr. Chhoy possessed and intended to distribute more than half a kilo of this dangerous narcotic. Those who seek to dispense harmful drugs throughout this Commonwealth have no regard to the lives that they are damaging. We at the U.S. Attorney’s Office do. These prosecutions will continue if this behavior persists.”
"As methamphetamine seizures are on the rise, DEA stands committed to keeping this highly addictive drug out of Massachusetts," said Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division. "This arrest not only holds Mr. Chhoy accountable for these crimes but it also serves as a warning to those traffickers who are contributing to the drug crisis in America. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts in Massachusetts."
The charge of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substances containing a detectible amount of methamphetamine provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life years in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of $5 million. The charge of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number provides for a sentence of no greater than 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
U.S. Attorney Rollins and DEA SAC Boyle made the announcement today. The Boston Police Department provided critical assistance in the investigation of this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan Panich of Rollins’ Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit is prosecuting the case.
The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Long Island Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Mailing Threatening Letters to LGBTQ+ Affiliated IndividualsRead the Press Release
Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, United States District Judge Joanna Seybert sentenced Robert Fehring to 30 months in prison for mailing more than 60 letters to LGBTQ+ affiliated individuals, organizations and businesses, many of which contained threats to kill, shoot, and bomb the recipients. Fehring pleaded guilty to the charge in February 2022.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York and Michael J. Driscoll, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Rodney K. Harrison, Commissioner, Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD) announced the sentence.
“There is no room for hate in the Eastern District of New York. Today’s sentence makes clear that threats to kill and commit acts of violence against the LGBTQ+ community will be met with significant punishment,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “We will use the full power of our office to bring to justice those who threaten to kill or hurt people because of who they are, and to ensure everyone in our district is able to live authentically, safely and in peace.”
United States Attorney Peace also expressed his gratitude to the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance in the investigation.
“Robert Fehring made heinous threats against members of the LGBTQ+ community in locations throughout New York, including Suffolk County, for nearly eight years,” Suffolk County Police Commissioner Harrison said. “Thanks to the tireless efforts of our department’s Hate Crimes Unit detectives and the diligent work of our law enforcement partners, Fehring is being held accountable for his crimes. This sentence reiterates that hate and intolerance have no place in Suffolk County.”
As set forth in the court filings and today’s proceeding, from at least 2013 to 2021, Fehring sent letters threatening violence to individuals associated with the LGBTQ+ community. In those letters, Fehring threatened to, among other things, use firearms and explosives against the recipients. Two such letters threatened that there would be an attack on an LGBTQ+ event in Huntington, New York that would be like the 2013 Boston Marathon bombing. Another letter threatened that radio-controlled explosives would be planted at a beach club in Long Beach, New York that had hosted a LGBTQ+ event. In another letter sent in June 2018, Fehring threatened the operators of a water ferry service from Sayville to Fire Island, New York that they should “screen everyone coming on board with a metal detector” and that “a thorough search of your boats would be in order.”
Fehring also sent a threatening letter to the owners of the Stonewall Inn in Manhattan and an African American-owned barbershop affiliated with the LGTBQ+ community in Brooklyn. The letter to the Stonewall Inn stated, “we will blow up/burn your establishments down. We will shoot those who frequent your dens of [expletives].” The letter to the barbershop purported to be from “People Who Hate Gays ... and In Particular [n-word] Gays and stated, “your shop is the perfect place for a bombing ... or beating the scum that frequents your den of [expletive] into a bloody pool of steaming flesh.”
On November 18, 2021, the FBI Civil Rights Squad and the New York Joint Terrorism Task Force executed a search warrant at Fehring’s home in Bayport, New York, and recovered copies of letters containing threats, supplies used to mail threatening letters, 20 LGBTQ+ Pride flags that were stolen from flagpoles in Sayville, New York in July 2021, and reconnaissance-style photographs from the Eisenhower Park Pride event. The FBI also recovered electronic devices owned by Fehring that contained internet searches for Fehring’s victims and related LGBTQ+ affiliated events and businesses. Law enforcement officers also recovered from Fehring’s residence two loaded shotguns, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, two stun guns, and a stamped envelope addressed to an LGBTQ+ affiliated attorney containing the remains of a dead bird.
At Fehring’s sentencing hearing, six victims addressed the Court and described the fear that Fehring’s threats instilled in them.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and Cybercrime Section, Civil Rights Section, and Long Island Criminal Division. Assistant United States Attorneys Francisco J. Navarro, Rachel A. Bennek, and Andrew P. Wenzel are in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
ROBERT FEHRING
Age: 74
Bayport, New YorkE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-059
Logan County Woman Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 Relief Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Logan County woman pleaded guilty today to wire fraud, admitting to a scheme to defraud the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) of over $42,250.00 in COVID-19 relief loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act).
According to court documents and statements made in court, Alexis Ransom, 24, of Logan, applied for three PPP loans beginning on March 27, 2021, and continuing to August 16, 2021, for her purported business, Alexis Renae Ransom, which she claimed did business under the tradenames of Renae’s Fashion Consulting LLC and Momma & Me Boutique. Ransom admitted that she falsely stated that Renae’s Fashion Consulting LLC was established in 2019, and had earned $66,900.00 in gross income in 2019 and 2020, and that Momma & Me Boutique earned $69,000.00 in gross income in 2019. The investigation revealed that Ransom’s purported business and its tradenames had not engaged in substantial business activity before February 15, 2020. Ransom further admitted that she submitted a false Internal Revenue Service (IRS) Form 1040, Schedule C Profit or Loss from Business in connection with the first loan application she submitted for Renae’s Fashion Consulting LLC.
The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain approved expenses, through the PPP. Businesses must use PPP loan proceeds for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities.
Ransom obtained two PPP loans of $13,937.50 each for Renae’s Fashion Consulting LLC, and one loan of $14,375.00 for Momma & Me Boutique. Ransom admitted that she later applied to have all three PPP loans forgiven even though she had not spent the loan proceeds on permissible business expenses. The SBA forgave her loans on August 16, 2021.
Ransom is scheduled to be sentenced on November 16, 2022 and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Ransom also agreed to pay $42,250.00 in restitution.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the West Virginia State Police and the United States Secret Service for conducting the investigation.
Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Kathleen Robeson is prosecuting the case.
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.
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-122.
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Lincoln Man Sentenced to 20 1/2 Years in Prison for Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Steve Russell announced that Gregory Dightman, 53, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced today in Lincoln, Nebraska, by United States District Judge John M. Gerrard for four counts of production of child pornography. Dightman was sentenced to 20 1/2 years in prison and10 years of supervised release on each count with the sentences to be served concurrently. There is no parole in the federal system. Dightman was additionally ordered to pay $12,000 which will contribute to funds established for victims of these types of cases.
On November 19, 2019, the Lincoln Police Department received a child abuse/neglect intake from the Department of Health and Human Services. A mother reported that her daughter had been taking inappropriate photographs with a professional photographer (Gregory Dightman) that included nude images. LPD received search warrants for Dightman’s home and studio area where photos were taken. Dightman consented to talk to law enforcement and admitted that he knew how old the girl was and that he had taken nude photographs of her.
Through the examination of Dightman’s devices and interviews with other young women, it was determined that Dightman had created pornographic images of at least four young ladies who were minors at the time the photos were created/taken. The conduct spanned from 2009 until 2019. The victims were between the ages of 16 and 17 when Dightman took the sexually explicit photographs. The investigation revealed that Dightman would pay the victims for the photo shoots. Between the four young women, approximately 590 child pornographic images were recovered.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Licensed Real Estate Agent and Her Husband Charged with Conspiracy and Bank FraudRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Maria Del Carmen Montes (46, Kissimmee) with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, four counts of bank fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. If convicted, Montes faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison on the conspiracy count, up to 30 years for each fraud count, and a mandatory penalty of 2 years’ imprisonment for the aggravated identity theft count. The indictment also charges Montes’ husband Carlos Ferrer (45, Kissimmee) with one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and three counts of bank fraud. If convicted, Ferrer faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison for the conspiracy count, and up to, 30 years’ imprisonment for each fraud count.
According to the Indictment, Montes and Ferrer conspired to create and executed a mortgage fraud scheme targeting financial institutions. To ensure that otherwise unqualified borrowers she was representing as a licensed realtor were approved for mortgage loans, Montes created fictitious and fraudulent paystubs and IRS Form W-2s in the names of companies for whom her clients had never worked. The bogus income documents falsely indicated that her clients had worked at these companies, including companies formed and controlled by Ferrer, for a certain period of time and earned income that they did not. Montes submitted the fictitious paystubs and W-2s she created to the financial institutions who relied on them when making underwriting decisions. Additionally, Montes used her clients’ personally identifying information on these documents without their knowledge or authorization.
In order to further deceive the mortgage lenders, Montes and Ferrer recruited a co-conspirator working at a company listed on certain false paystubs and W-2s to falsely certify Verifications of Employment (VOEs”) sent by the financial institutions and instructed the co-conspirator to lie to the final institutions when they called to further verify the borrower’s employment. Ferrer and Montes sent the false and fictitious paystubs and W-2s to the co-conspirator so the co-conspirator could put the false information on the VOEs before certifying, signing, and returning them to the financial institutions. Ferrer also falsely certified and emailed VOEs sent by the financial institution in the names of borrowers that he knew did not work for his companies and lied to the banks during verbal VOE checks. Based on Montes’ and Ferrer’s misrepresentations, the financial institutions approved and funded the mortgage loans.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.
Kyle Man Charged with Multiple Counts of Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a Kyle, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for Abusive Sexual Contact, Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor, Receipt of Child Pornography, and Possession of Child Pornography.
Joshua Sharp, age 37, was indicted in July of 2022. He appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Daneta Wollmann on July 29, 2022, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment.
The maximum penalty upon conviction is life in federal prison and/or a $250,000 fine, lifetime supervised release, and $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered.
The charges stem from Sharp sexually abusing two children less than 12 years old between August 2019 and December 2021 in Kyle. Sharp also received and possessed child pornography during this time. The charges are merely accusations and Sharp is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.
Sharp was detained pending trial. A trial date has been set for October 4, 2022.
Joint Statement by Assistant Attorney General Clarke and U.S. Attorney Hoff on Third Anniversary of Walmart ShootingRead the Press Release
Kristen Clarke, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division at the U.S. Department of Justice and Ashley C. Hoff, the United States Attorney for the Western District of Texas, release this statement on the third anniversary of the mass shooting in an El Paso Walmart that resulted in the deaths of 23 individuals and injured numerous others.
“Today, with heavy hearts, we mark the third anniversary of the tragedy that occurred in El Paso. Our thoughts remain with those who lost their lives and those who were injured, as well as their loved ones, the El Paso community, and the countless others who were impacted by this senseless, reprehensible crime. Our commitment to pursue justice for all those affected by this violent act of hate remains unwavering.”
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Indianapolis Felon Sentenced to 2 Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearms, Including a Stolen HandgunRead the Press Release
INDIANAPOLIS – Tremain Prevot, 39, of Indianapolis, was sentenced to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents, on June 4, 2020, law enforcement officers responded to a report of a person with a firearm in the area of 25th Street and Post Road on the far east side of Indianapolis. Officers arrived on the scene and saw Prevot carrying an AR15-style rifle and a black handgun, both loaded with extended magazines. The handgun was stolen. Prevot has four prior felony convictions, including a conviction for carrying a handgun without a license. Prevot admitted to the responding officers that he knew he was a convicted felon and was prohibited from possessing firearms.
Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana; Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Columbus Field Division (ATF), and Chief Randal Taylor of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) made the announcement.
ATF and IMPD investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Chief Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. As part of the sentence, Judge Pratt ordered that Prevot be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for one year following his release from federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela S. Domash who prosecuted this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. 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.
Houma Man Pleads Guilty to Violating the Federal Controlled Substances ActRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – JARRETT SCURTO, age 35, a resident of Houma, Louisiana, pled guilty on August 3, 2022, before U.S. District Judge Sarah S. Vance to possession with intent to distribute fifty grams or more of methamphetamine in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans.
According to court documents, on April 28, 2021, SCURTO, a known methamphetamine distributor in Terrebonne Parish, was stopped by law enforcement while traveling on Louisiana Highway 182. A subsequent search of SCURTO’s vehicle revealed that he had 58 grams of pure methamphetamine in a hidden compartment in his trunk.
SCURTO faces a statutory mandatory minimum sentence of ten years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Terrebonne Parish Sherriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers.