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20 November 2024
Lutz Woman Indicted for International Parental Kidnapping and Passport FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Kendra Evone Johnson (37, Lutz) with international parental kidnapping and passport fraud. If convicted on all counts, Johnson faces a maximum penalty of 13 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment and court documents, in June 2023, Johnson completed passport applications for her two minor children. In the applications, she knowingly made false statements by detailing she had attempted to reach the children’s father more than 100 times since 2018 with no response, specifically alleging that the children’s father would not return text messages, calls, mailed letters, or social media messages. Additionally, Johnson alleged that the children’s father was absent from the children’s lives. However, text messages show Johnson and the children’s father had been in communication, and the father did not consent to the children obtaining passports.
In July 2024, Johnson traveled with the two children to Panama with the children’s fraudulently obtained passports. This travel and extended stay in Panama directly impacted the father’s ability to exercise his parental rights.
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 U.S. Department of State – Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) – Miami Field Office with assistance from the U.S. Embassy in Panama City. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abigail K. King. Operating at more than 270 U.S. diplomatic posts and in more than 30 U.S. cities, DSS leads worldwide security and law enforcement efforts to advance U.S. foreign policy, safeguard national security interests, and investigate transnational crimes.
Louisville Man Sentenced to over Seven Years in Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl and Heroin and Illegal Possession of a MachinegunRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced yesterday to 7 years and 3 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and illegal possession of a machinegun.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
According to court documents, Tyrone Bunzy Jr., 26, was sentenced to 7 years and 3 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and illegal possession of a Glock Switch Device (machine gun conversion device). A Glock Switch device allows a semi-automatic handgun to function as an automatic and is defined as a machine gun under federal law.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the DEA and the ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Ansari prosecuted the 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 gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 11 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child Pornography and Violating Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville, Kentucky, man was sentenced yesterday to a total of 11 years in federal prison. The sentence included 10 years for possession of child pornography and an additional 1 year for violating a previous term of federal supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service made the announcement.
“I appreciate the outstanding work of the Secret Service and the trial team during the investigation and prosecution of this case,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “We will continue to prioritize the apprehension and prosecution of individuals in the Western District who sexually exploit the most vulnerable of victims.”
According to court documents, Jason Florence, 49, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for possessing child pornography after having been previously convicted of child pornography offenses. At the time he committed this offense, Florence was on federal supervised release for a 2015 conviction in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky for attempted transportation and possession of child pornography. During his term of supervised release, Florence was found to be in possession of graphic videos and images of child pornography. Florence was sentenced to an additional 1 year in prison for violating the terms of his supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
Florence was convicted following a two-day jury trial in August of this year.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Spencer McKiness and Danielle Yannelli prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Little League Coach Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Meet A 13-Year-Old Child to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Joseph Rocco Quaranta (48, Dunnellon) has pleaded guilty to attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Quaranta faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on July 25, 2024, an undercover detective from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office posed online as a 13-year-old girl. Quaranta contacted the undercover detective’s account and, after learning the child’s age, engaged in a sexually explicit conversation. Quaranta then arranged to meet the child at a predetermined location in Marion County to engage in sexual activity. He arrived at the meeting location and was arrested by law enforcement. After his arrest, Quaranta admitted to deputies that he had been volunteering as a local Little League baseball coach.
This case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Chiefland Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
The 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 Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lincoln Man Sentenced to 30 months in Prison for Possessing Unregistered SuppressorsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Dillon M. Salvo, age 29, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced November 20, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, after having pled guilty to receiving and possessing unregistered firearm suppressors. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Salvo to 30 months’ imprisonment that will run consecutive to his Nebraska state convictions in unrelated theft cases. There is no parole in the federal system. After Salvo’s release he will begin a 2-year term of supervised release. As part of this prosecution, over 26 firearms were forfeited, along with firearm suppressors and ammunition.
On March 19, 2023, the Lincoln Police Department and Nebraska State Patrol obtained a state search warrant for the common residence of Dillon Salvo and codefendant William Rader. During the search, law enforcement located four suspected unregistered firearm suppressors inside the residence along with numerous firearms.
A database check was completed for registered items with the National Firearms Act Branch (NFA) of the ATF, which revealed that neither Rader nor defendant Salvo had registered firearm suppressors in the database, making their possession illegal.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Lincoln Police Department and Nebraska State Patrol.
Lansing Man Indicted for Drug Trafficking and Possessing FirearmsRead the Press Release
Searches at properties used by Kevin Dunson yielded over four kilograms of methamphetamine, two kilograms of cocaine, four firearms, and over a half-million dollars
GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Kevin Dunson, 43, Lansing, was indicted by a federal grand jury for possession with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine and over 500 grams of cocaine and for being a felon in possession of firearms. Dunson was originally arrested on a federal criminal complaint on November 1, 2024, on the same charges.
“The trafficking of illegal drugs is a scourge that destroys lives and harms communities,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “Addressing this problem requires an all-hands-on-deck approach that includes not just enforcement, but prevention and treatment, as well. While law enforcement alone will not solve this problem, we remain committed to disrupting the supply lines that bring these poisons into our communities.”
Law enforcement executed search warrants on October 29, 2024, at Dunson’s residence, his drug stash house, and two storage units, all located within Lansing. The searches were the result of months of surveillance, source information, analysis of subpoenaed records, and other investigative work that identified Dunson as a trafficker in large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine.
The searches yielded over four kilograms of methamphetamine, approximately two kilograms of cocaine, four firearms, and $544,697 in cash. Dunson has multiple prior felony convictions and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
If convicted, Dunson faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and up to life on the drug charges and up to 15 years in prison on the firearms charges.
“Illicit drug distribution erodes communities and destroys lives,” said Orville Green, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Division of DEA. “This indictment should serve as an example to those who distribute poisons like methamphetamine and cocaine, that DEA will aggressively pursue and hold you accountable. This investigation demonstrates the strength and continued commitment of our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners here in Michigan.”
The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Tri-County Metro Narcotics Team, Michigan State Police, and the Lansing Police Department are investigating this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel S. Fauson is prosecuting it.
The charges in an indictment are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
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Laboratory Owner Charged for $79M Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
The owner and operator of a Texas laboratory was charged yesterday in connection with his role in a $79 million respiratory pathogen panel (RPP) testing fraud scheme.
According to court documents, Osman Syed, 34, also known as Syed Osman, an Indian national, caused BioDX Labs LLC (BioDX) to submit more than $79 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare and Texas Medicaid for RPP tests that were not provided and were medically unnecessary. Osman used the personal identifying information of a physician, without the physician’s knowledge or consent, to cause the submission of millions of dollars in claims to Medicare and Medicaid for RPP tests for beneficiaries and recipients, even though the physician had no prior relationship with the beneficiaries and recipients, was not treating the beneficiaries and recipients for respiratory symptoms, and did not use the tests to treat the beneficiaries and recipients. To conceal that BioDX did not perform the tests as billed, Osman falsely represented that BioDX used reference laboratories to perform its testing. Osman and his co-conspirators laundered the proceeds of the fraudulent scheme by transferring substantial sums to bank accounts abroad, including accounts in China, Hong Kong, Turkey, Greece, and Switzerland. In connection with the charges, the government seized over $15 million in cash.
Osman is charged with three counts of health care fraud, conspiracy to engage in money laundering, and three counts of money laundering. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each count.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Jason E. Meadows of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Dallas Regional Office; Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Dallas Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Craig Wolf of the U.S. Secret Service (USSS) Dallas Field Office; Chief William Marlowe of the Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit (MFCU); and Acting Special Agent in Charge P. J. O’Brien of the FBI Dallas Field Office made the announcement.
HHS-OIG, HSI, USSS, MFCU, and FBI are investigating the case.
Assistant Chief Brynn Schiess of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section is prosecuting the case.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $27 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Kanawha County Man Sentenced to Prison for Fentanyl CrimeRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jacarre Cortez Woodruff, 23, of Dunbar, was sentenced today to three years and five months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for distribution of fentanyl.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 25, 2023, Woodruff sold approximately 28 grams of a substance containing a mixture of heroin, fentanyl, and a fentanyl analogue to two confidential informants at his residence in Dunbar.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).
Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Lesley C. Shamblin prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-99.
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Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division Hosts “15 Years of Progress: Honoring the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act”Read the Press Release
The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division in collaboration with the University of the District of Columbia Law School, hosted an event yesterday commemorating the 15th anniversary of the Shepard-Byrd Hate Crimes Prevention Act. Several hundred attended the event in-person and online.
The Shepard-Byrd Act is a landmark federal statute passed in 2009 that allows federal criminal prosecution of hate crimes motivated by actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or disability. Yesterday’s event paid tribute to the lives of James Byrd Jr. and Matthew Shepard, uplifted the voices of hate crime survivors, recognized ongoing efforts to combat hate crimes and hate incidents and called for the continued expansion of victim services to address the needs of survivors and their communities.
“Fifteen years ago, the Hate Crimes Prevention Act gave the Justice Department critical tools that have made us more effective as we work to counter hate,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “We know that there is more work to be done, and the Department will keep working tirelessly to ensure that every person feels safe in their communities.”
In her opening remarks, Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division expressed immense gratitude to those whose years of advocacy and activism made the passage of the Shepard-Byrd Act possible 15 years ago. She underscored the work that still needs to be done in prosecuting and preventing hate crimes, as recent statistics from the FBI indicate that the incidence of hate crimes is rising. Racial bias remained the most significant motivator for hate crimes in 2023, and anti-Black hate crimes continued to represent the largest portion of race-motivated hate crimes.
“The Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Hate Crimes Prevention Act is one of our most powerful tools in efforts to combat violent bias-motivated hate crimes in America today,” said Assistant Attorney General Clarke. “We know that prosecutions alone will not eliminate hate, root and branch, and that public education, training and prevention efforts are just as necessary. Hate mongers fueled with racist, antisemitic, Islamophobic, anti-LGBTQI or xenophobic motivations have no place in America today. Rest assured, we will keep moving towards an inclusive and more peaceful America while holding accountable those responsible for senseless, vile, and hate-filled crimes.”
Dennis and Judy Shepard, the parents of Matthew Shepard, joined Assistant Attorney General Clarke for a fireside chat, and Louvon Byrd Harris, sister of James Byrd Jr., provided recorded remarks. The Shepards spoke about their son’s tragic death and his legacy—the work of the Matthew Shepard Foundation. Ms. Harris spoke of her brother’s brutal murder and the family’s continued work to promote healing through the Byrd Foundation.
Also on the program, U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves for the District of Columbia highlighted the district’s hate crimes enforcement work and his office’s longstanding commitment to working with local community organizations through the district’s Hate/Bias Crime Task Force.
“The murders of James Byrd and Matthew Sheppard rocked our collective conscience,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves for the District of Columbia. “When victims are targeted because of their identities, it can put those with identities like the victims on edge, wondering if they will be next. As we mark the anniversary of the Shepard-Byrd Act, our Office reaffirms its commitment to hold accountable those who commit hate- and bias-related crimes.”
The trial team that prosecuted U.S. v. Daqua Ritter explained how they secured the first guilty verdict in trial under the Matthew Shepard and James Byrd Jr. Hate Crimes Prevention Act for violence against a transgender person — the brutal murder of Dime Doe, a Black transgender woman in South Carolina. Ritter was sentenced to life in prison.
Taylor Dumpson-Lippincott, an attorney and former student government body president at American University, shared her experience as the target of racially- and gender-motivated hate and cyber-harassment. She explained how her experience as a survivor fueled her passion to combat hate-based violence and threats, especially on school campuses.
The program also featured voices of survivors and their families. In 2017, 1st Lt. Richard W. Collins III was murdered in an unprovoked attack on the campus of the University of Maryland, College Park, by a follower of a white nationalist hate-group. Parents Dawn and Richard Collins described how in the years since their son’s murder, they have led efforts at HBCUs and beyond to educate the public about the proliferation of hate groups targeting majority-white colleges and universities for recruitment.
On the panel with the Collins family, Daphne Felten-Green shared examples of her work with the Justice Department’s Community Relations Service educating colleges and universities in conjunction with the Divided Communities Project at the Ohio State Moritz College of Law. Benny Del Castillo of Network for Victim Recovery DC spoke of local efforts at survivor-centered responses to hate crimes.
For more information on the Justice Department’s efforts to combat hate and hate crimes, see the updated Hate Crimes Fact Sheet.
Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Mizer delivers remarks. Assistant Attorney General Clarke delivers remarks. Assistant Attorney General Clarke sits with Judy and Dennis Shepard, Matthew Shepard’s parents. Assistant Attorney General Clarke stands with attendees of the event.Justice Department Seizes Cybercrime Website and Charges Its AdministratorsRead the Press Release
The Justice Department today announced the seizure of PopeyeTools, an illicit website and marketplace dedicated to selling stolen credit cards and other tools for carrying out cybercrime and fraud, and unsealed criminal charges against three PopeyeTools administrators: Abdul Ghaffar, 25, of Pakistan; Abdul Sami, 35, of Pakistan; and Javed Mirza, 37, of Afghanistan.
According to a criminal complaint unsealed today, Ghaffar, Sami, and Mirza are charged with conspiracy to commit access device fraud, trafficking access devices, and solicitation of another person for the purposes of offering access devices, arising from their roles as administrators of the PopeyeTools website.
As part of the actions announced today, the United States obtained judicial authorization to seize the domains www.PopeyeTools.com, www.PopeyeTools.co.uk, and www.PopeyeTools.to, which long hosted and facilitated access to the PopeyeTools website. According to the affidavit filed in support of these seizures, since in or around 2016, PopeyeTools served as a significant online marketplace dedicated to selling sensitive financial data and other illicit goods and tools of cybercrime to thousands of users around the world, including users associated with ransomware activity. Some of the stolen information included bank account, credit card, and debit card numbers and associated information for conducting transactions. Since its inception, PopeyeTools has offered for sale the access devices and personally identifiable information (PII) of at least 227,000 individuals and generated at least $1.7 million in revenue.
PopeyeTools Splash Page“As alleged, Ghaffar, Sami, and Mirza founded and ran a longstanding online marketplace that sold illicit goods and services for use in committing cybercrimes, including ransomware attacks and financial frauds,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s announcement of the takedown of the PopeyeTools domains, the criminal charges against its operators, and the seizure of cryptocurrency is yet another example of the department’s ‘all-tools’ approach to combatting cybercrime. Working with our domestic and international partners, the Criminal Division is committed to disrupting illicit enterprises through every available means, including by taking over their websites, charging culpable individuals, and seizing their illicit proceeds.”
“Cybercrime knows no boundaries,” said U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross for the Western District of New York. “I continue to commend the work of our federal law enforcement partners, who joined forces with law enforcement across the globe, to disrupt this illicit marketplace. The perpetrators of this illegal marketplace allegedly sold the credit card information and personally identifiable information of hundreds of thousands of victims, some who live in western New York. Because of the incredible work of law enforcement, this illegal website has been seized and taken down so no one else can be victimized.”
“Dismantling the infrastructure of cyber criminals and seizing their funds are key aspects of the FBI’s cyber strategy,” said Assistant Director Bryan Vorndran of FBI’s Cyber Division. “Today’s announcement marks success on both fronts. In addition to unsealing charges against the administrators of PopeyeTools, we’ve also seized domains and cryptocurrency associated with the cybercriminal marketplace. The FBI will continue to relentlessly pursue the facilitators of cyber crime along with their tools and resources.”
“Today’s seizure of PopeyeTools, an illegal website and marketplace, highlights the FBI’s dedication to weaken cybercrime,” said Special Agent in Charge Matthew Miraglia of the FBI Buffalo Field Office. “This takedown is a significant example of the FBI’s technical capabilities, as well as our strong relationships with our international partners to protect people from cybercriminals operating these types of online marketplaces.”
According to court documents, the PopeyeTools marketplace’s motto was “We Believe in Quality Not Quantity,” and the website made a name for itself by allegedly selling stolen access devices and other illicit goods and services that were valid and thereby suited to committing financial fraud. For instance, the “Live Fullz” section offered unauthorized payment card data and PII for cards that were marketed as “live” — i.e., could be used to conduct fraudulent transactions — at a price of approximately $30 per card. Other sections included “Fresh Bank Logs,” which offered logs of stolen bank account information, “Fresh Leads” or email spam lists, “Scam pages,” and “Guides and Tutorials.”
To attract members to the marketplace, PopeyeTools allegedly promised to refund or replace purchased credit cards that were no longer valid at the time of sale. In addition, at different times, PopeyeTools provided customers with access to services that could be used to check the validity of bank account, credit card, or debit card numbers offered through the website.
As part of the actions announced today, the United States also obtained judicial authorization to seize approximately $283,000 worth of cryptocurrencies from a cryptocurrency account controlled by Sami.
If convicted, Ghaffar, Sami, and Mirza face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each of the three access device offenses. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI Buffalo Field Office investigated the case.
The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided assistance. The Justice Department appreciates the significant assistance provided by law enforcement partners in the United Kingdom and Malaysia.
Senior Counsel Aarash A. Haghighat of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Bonanno for the Western District of New York are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Palma for the Western District of New York also assisted with the announced seizures.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Jury Returns Guilty Verdict in Stabbing of Man in Northwest DC in February 2023Read the Press Release
WASHINGTON – Willie Byrd, 61, of Washington D.C., has been found guilty of committing a violent assault in February 2023, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela A. Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).
The Superior Court jury returned its verdict on November 19, 2024, finding Byrd guilty of one count aggravated assault while armed and one count of carrying a dangerous weapon. The Honorable Michael O’Keefe scheduled sentencing for January 31, 2025.
According to the government’s evidence, at approximately 8:30 pm, on February 28, 2023, the defendant stabbed the victim in the chest with a large fixed-blade knife, near the corner of 2nd and D Streets N.W. Before the stabbing occurred, the defendant was trying to take money from the victim while attempting to conduct a drug transaction. The victim suffered life-threatening injuries to multiple organs and required surgery and an extended hospital stay.
MPD officers and detectives reviewed surveillance video footage of the stabbing from the nearby Federal City Shelter, which led to Byrd’s identification as the assailant. MPD detectives located Byrd inside of the shelter, and he was placed under arrest.
In announcing the verdict, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the Metropolitan Police Department.
Finally, they commended the work of Assistant United States Attorneys Erica Rudolf and Ella Gladman, who prosecuted the case, and Assistant United States Attorney Gregory Evans, who investigated the case.
Iowa City Man Sentenced to 80 Months in Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – An Iowa City man was sentenced yesterday to 80 months in federal prison for receiving child pornography.
According to public court documents, law enforcement received a CyberTip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that Ivan Galvan, 31, had uploaded a video containing child sexual abuse material in April 2021. Law enforcement searched Galvan’s social media account and found an additional eight videos and one image containing child sexual abuse material. In November 2021, law enforcement searched Galvan’s Iowa City residence and found electronic devices, some of which contained additional videos and images of child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Galvan will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Galvan was also ordered to pay $9,000 in restitution.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Joint Forensic Analysis Cyber Team (JFACT).
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Harrison County Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jack F. Gibbins, III, age 47, of Clarksburg, West Virginia, was sentenced today to 210 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, officers attempted a traffic stop on Gibbins’s motorcycle. After a pursuit, Gibbins was arrested and officers found methamphetamine in his pocket. He has a criminal history of domestic battery, escape from custody, violation of a protective order, and drug trafficking.
Gibbins will serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office; and the Bridgeport Police Department investigated.
Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.
Hampton man sentenced to over seven years in prison for cocaine trafficking and firearms crimeRead the Press Release
NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – A Hampton man was sentenced yesterday to seven years and six months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, in August 2023, federal agents conducted two controlled narcotics purchases from Timothy Joseph Sullivan, 35, in Georgia. Further investigation revealed that Sullivan regularly traveled from Hampton to Atlanta. Investigators surveilled Sullivan’s residence in Hampton and conducted additional controlled narcotics purchases there.
On Feb. 3, agents searched Sullivan’s residence and recovered three handguns, a micro-conversion kit, three bags of cocaine totaling 472.21 grams, 700 grams of marijuana, ammunition, a 60-round capacity magazine, three digital scales, various pills, and packing material.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Derek W. Gordon, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Heath prosecuted the case.
Assistance was provided by the Washington/Baltimore High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) task force.
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. 4:24-cr-27.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced to Prison for Document FraudRead the Press Release
A man who possessed a fraudulent permanent resident card was sentenced today to almost three months in federal prison.
Rodolfo Duran-Matul, age 27, a citizen of Guatemala residing in Belmond, Iowa, received the prison term after an October 8, 2024, guilty plea to one count of unlawful possession of an identification document.
In a plea agreement, Duran-Matul admitted he had previously been deported from the United States and illegally reentered the United States without the permission of the United States government. Duran-Matul was previously deported in August 2018.
Duran-Matul also admitted that in August 2024, when he was arrested on state charges, he possessed a fraudulent permanent resident card (“green card”) bearing his name and photograph. The number on the green card was assigned to someone else. Permanent resident cards are documents prescribed by statute or regulation for entry into or as evidence of authorized stay or employment in the United States. As an alien unlawfully in the United States, Duran-Matul was not authorized to work in the United States.
Duran-Matul was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Duran-Matul was sentenced to 85 days’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system.
Duran-Matul is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be turned over to immigration officials.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the 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 24-CR-2038.
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Guatemalan Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine in Dubuque, IowaRead the Press Release
A Guatemalan man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Jose Eleazar Aceves-Garcia, age 30, from Guatemala, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute at least 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and 50 grams of actual (pure) methamphetamine.
In a plea agreement, Aceves-Garcia admitted that between January 2019 and January 2022, he distributed at least 400 pounds of ice methamphetamine to a co‑conspirator in the Dubuque, Iowa, area. His fingerprints were on two packages, which contained a total of more than seven pounds of ice methamphetamine, that he mailed to the co-conspirator in Dubuque. Aceves-Garcia also distributed a kilogram of heroin to the co-conspirator.
Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Aceves-Garcia remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Aceves-Garcia faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment without the possibility of parole, a $10,000,000 fine, and a life term of supervised release following any imprisonment.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Dubuque Drug Task Force, Dubuque County Sheriff’s Office, Dubuque Police Department, Quad City Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation Criminalistics Laboratory.
Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl. The case file number is 23-CR-1022. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.
Gary Man Sentenced to 153 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
HAMMOND- Jerron Donte Williams, 34 years old, of Gary, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Senior Judge Jon E. DeGuilio after pleading guilty to assaulting and inflicting bodily injury on a United States Postal Service Letter Carrier with a deadly weapon, and discharging a firearm during the assault, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson.
Williams was sentenced to 153 months in prison, 3 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $121,045.62 in restitution.
According to documents in the case, on April 2, 2021, a letter carrier, employed by the United States Postal Service, was delivering U.S. Mail in their official capacity in Gary, Indiana. After the letter carrier stopped to organize mail, Williams ran his vehicle into the letter carrier’s postal delivery vehicle. Williams yelled at the letter carrier, exited his vehicle, entered a residence, and emerged from the residence with a handgun. William then commenced firing at the mail carrier while the postal vehicle was in motion. The bullets struck the postal vehicle four times and shattered the right-side window, causing injuries to the letter carrier.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Gary Police Department, and the Hobart Police Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas J. Padilla.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Freedom Resident Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Prison for Receipt of Material Depicting the Sexual Exploitation of a MinorRead the Press Release
PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Freedom, Pennsylvania, was sentenced in federal court on November 19, 2024, to 74 months of imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, on his conviction for receiving material depicting the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today.
Chief United States District Judge Mark R. Hornak imposed the sentence on Mark Kriss, 66, also ordering that Kriss register as a sex offender under the laws of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and pay restitution in the amount of $3,000 to the minor victim.
According to information presented to the Court, Kriss made contact with a 14-year-old minor over an adult dating website and, on May 22, 2021, received digital photographs from the minor depicting her sexual exploitation. Kriss also acknowledged responsibility for meeting the minor for the purpose of engaging in sex acts at a local motel.
Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Northern Regional Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Kriss.
Former Urologist at Prominent Medical Institutions Sentenced to Life in Prison for Sexual Abuse of Patients, Including ChildrenRead the Press Release
Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that DARIUS A. PADUCH, a former urologist at two prominent medical institutions in the New York-area, was sentenced today to life in prison by Judge Ronnie Abrams for his yearslong sexual abuse of patients, some of whom were minors. On May 8, 2024, PADUCH was convicted, following a two-week trial, of six counts of inducing a person to travel to engage in unlawful sexual activity and five counts of inducing a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity.
U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Darius Paduch was a sexual predator who preyed on patients seeking treatment for sensitive medical issues. He used his position as a renowned urologist at prestigious hospitals to sexually assault vulnerable patients, including children, to gratify his own sexual desires. Paduch’s abuse was perverse and pervasive, spanning over a decade and victimizing patients both inside and outside of hospital rooms. He repeatedly violated his oath to ‘Do No Harm.’ Today’s sentence demonstrates that medical providers who exploit their position of trust to commit sexual abuse will be held accountable for their conduct.”
According to the Superseding Indictment and evidence at trial:
From at least in or about 2007 through at least in or about 2019, PADUCH, while working as a urologist, enticed and induced multiple victims to travel to his medical offices at a prominent hospital in Manhattan (“Medical Institution-1”), so PADUCH could, among other things, sexually abuse the victims. PADUCH also induced certain victims to travel to New Jersey where he abused and assaulted the victims under the guise of medical care. In or about 2019, PADUCH began practicing at a different hospital located in Long Island, New York (“Medical Institution-2”), where he continued to sexually abuse patients. During medical appointments, PADUCH would: masturbate his patients, sometimes without wearing gloves, and sometimes to the point of the patients ejaculating on him; direct his patients to masturbate while he watched; insert his finger inside the rectums of patients, including while masturbating them; and press his own erect penis against patients’ bodies. PADUCH invited at least one victim to his boat, where PADUCH provided the patient with sedatives and masturbated the patient; PADUCH also exposed his own genitals to this patient. PADUCH used his position at prominent medical institutions in New York to make or attempt to make the victims believe that the sexual abuse he inflicted on them was medically necessary and appropriate, when, in fact, it was not. PADUCH often directed the victims to schedule follow-up visits, and he instructed victims to return to see him again. PADUCH also invited at least two patients, who were minors, to serve as high school interns. As a result of PADUCH’s actions, some victims attended many appointments with PADUCH over the course of multiple years, at which PADUCH repeatedly abused them. At trial, 11 victims testified about being sexually abused by PADUCH, and dozens more provided impact statements with the Court in connection with sentencing.
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In addition to the prison term, PADUCH, 57, of North Bergen, New Jersey, was ordered to pay restitution in an amount to be determined at a later date.
Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marguerite B. Colson, Elizabeth A. Espinosa, Ni Qian, and Jun Xiang are in charge of the prosecution.
Former St. Louis Circus Official Accused of EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A former official with a St. Louis-based non-profit circus was indicted Wednesday and accused of embezzling over $120,000 in three ways from December 2022 through at least September 2023.
George S. Pace, 61, of Ladue, was indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on six felony counts of wire fraud. The indictment accuses Pace of using two credit cards that he’d surreptitiously obtained to charge thousands of dollars in unauthorized personal purchases, including in restaurants and for horseback riding-related expenses. Pace was not authorized to have a circus credit card. When asked about the charges, Pace falsely claimed that the card had been stolen and that he’d already contacted the bank about the issue, the indictment says. He forged account statements to falsely show that the fraudulent charges had been resolved, the indictment says.
Pace was the president of the circus’ board of directors at the time.
The indictment says Pace also diverted to himself over $50,000 in circus checks that were supposed to go to pay down a line of credit at a bank and deposited thousands of dollars’ worth of checks donors sent to the circus into his own account.
Finally, the indictment says Pace fraudulently applied for a $18,200 U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Disaster Assistance Loan on Aug. 9, 2022, misrepresenting his income and bank account balance. On Aug. 20, 2022, he fraudulently applied for a second loan for $11,200, the indictment says, concealing that he’d also received two Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans through the Small Business Administration totaling $38,515.
Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Each wire fraud charge carries a potential penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both prison and a fine.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gwendolyn Carroll is prosecuting the case.
Former Office of Emergency Medical Services Associate Director sentenced to six years in prison for embezzling $4M from the Virginia Department of HealthRead the Press Release
RICHMOND, Va. – A Midlothian man was sentenced today to six years in prison for mail fraud, federal program theft, and tax evasion in connection with a scheme to misappropriate millions of dollars from the Virginia Department of Health (VDH).
According to court documents, beginning on Aug. 10, 2013, Adam Lamar Harrell, 41, was an employee of VDH and on Sept. 10, 2019, became the Associate Director of the Office of Emergency Medical Services (OEMS). As OEMS’s Associate Director, Harrell was responsible for managing Virginia’s emergency response programs, epidemiology research, and the information technology systems that Virginia’s emergency medical service providers rely on, among other responsibilities.
Harrell used his position to direct payments from VDH to a company he registered and controlled, Strategic Tech Innovations, LLC. Harrell concealed his ownership of and affiliation with Strategic Tech from VDH and OEMS, and used this entity to embezzle funds from his employer through two separate means.
From January 2021 through May 2023, Harrell created 15 fraudulent invoices for services and technology that Strategic Tech would purportedly provide to OEMS. Harrell set exorbitant and non-market prices for the various line items on the invoices, knowing the vast majority of those items would not be provided by Strategic Tech. Without OEMS’s knowledge or approval, Harrell would submit these fraudulent invoices to the Western Virginia EMS Council (WVEMS), a regional emergency medical services council that serves as a pass-through for OEMS payments to vendors. Each of these invoices were paid by WVEMS with OEMS funds. By directing the invoices to WVEMS instead of Accounts Payable at OEMS, Harrell circumvented the requirement that Strategic Tech be approved as a vendor to VDH and OEMS and evaded scrutiny by the Accounts Payable department. As the Associate Director of OEMS, Harrell was able to unilaterally approve the same fraudulent Strategic Tech invoices he drafted.
Harrell deposited each of the checks he illegally received from WVEMS into the Strategic Tech checking account he controlled and used the funds for personal expenses. In total, Harrell received $4,337,395 in OEMS funds. The Consent Order of Forfeiture imposed not only a monetary judgement for the full proceeds Harrell obtained, but also called for the forfeiture of assets purchased using the proceeds, including real estate, vehicles, approximately 95 assorted firearms, a Rolex Submariner stainless steel wristwatch, a TAG Heuer Connected Steel watch, a Breitling Navitmer chronograph watch, a 14K princess cut white gold diamond stud earrings, and proceeds from the sales of certain assets.
The government has been able to recover $660,359.74 from the sales of two real properties, a vehicle, and other assets.
On March 9, 2021, Harrell filed a joint federal income tax return with his spouse for tax year 2020. On the IRS Form Schedule C, Profit or Loss from Business, Harrell reported being the sole proprietor of Strategic Tech, reporting $193,076 in gross receipts. He falsely reported expenses for Strategic Tech of $200,340, for a net loss of $7,264, fraudulently lowering his taxable income and generating a refund of $934. Harrell then ceased reporting any income from Strategic Tech on the federal income tax returns he filed for tax years 2021, 2022, and 2023. From November 2020 through March 2024, Harrell evaded a total of $1,880,287.34 in income taxes.
In addition to his term of imprisonment, the Court ordered Harrell to pay $6,254,458.72 in restitution to the victims of his crimes.
Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office; and Kareem A. Carter, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge of the Washington D.C. Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge John A. Gibney Jr.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kashan Pathan, Thomas A. Garnett, and Janet Jin Ah Lee prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:24-cr-92.
Former Jackson Police Department Officer Pleads Guilty to Making a False Statement in the Acquisition of a FirearmRead the Press Release
JACKSON, MS – A former Jackson Police Department officer pled guilty today to making a false statement to a firearms dealer in the acquisition of a firearm.
According to court documents and statements in open court, Torrence Donnell Mayfield, 53, of Jackson, purchased a firearm for another person on October 26, 2021. That purchase was made at a pawn shop which is a Federal Firearms Licensee. Mayfield was required to complete a written form to purchase the firearm. On that form, Mayfield indicated that he was purchasing the firearm for himself, not someone else. That statement was false. It is against federal law to make a false statement to a firearm dealer to acquire a firearm.
Mayfield is scheduled to be sentenced on March 4, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi and Special Agent in Charge Robert A. Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Herbert S. Carraway and Charles W. Kirkham are prosecuting the case.
Former Georgia Teacher Sentenced for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A former Central Georgia teacher, coach and volunteer youth ministry leader who admitted to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) was sentenced to serve six years in federal prison for his crime.
Christian Baumgarth, 28, of Atlanta, was sentenced to serve 72 months in prison to be followed by 25 years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on Nov. 20. In addition, he will have to register as a sex offender upon release from prison. Baumbarth pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography on July 8. There is no parole in the federal system.
“People who possess photos and videos of child sexual abuse material perpetuate the victimization of vulnerable children,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Working alongside law enforcement and child advocacy groups, we will root out predators involved in the online sexual exploitation of children and hold them accountable for their crimes.”
“In his role as a teacher, volunteer and coach, Mr. Baumgarth held positions of trust in the community while simultaneously exploiting the innocence of children behind closed doors,” said Steven N. Schrank, Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta, which covers Georgia and Alabama. “HSI will continue to work tirelessly with our partners to identify, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit the most vulnerable among us.”
According to court documents and statements referenced in court, federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) were investigating people using encrypted applications to distribute CSAM during the summer of 2023. Baumgarth was identified; at the time, he was a teacher and a coach at First Presbyterian Day (FPD) School in Macon, a position he held from 2018-2023. Additionally, he was a volunteer small group leader in the student ministry at Northway Church in Macon from 2019-2023.
On Aug. 1, 2023, agents executed a federal search warrant at Baumgarth’s residence in Macon, seizing numerous electronic devices. Agents notified FPD about the execution of the search warrant, and Baumgarth’s employment was terminated. Two of Baumgarth’s iPhones were forensically examined and found to contain 20 images and 13 videos of CSAM, including some that depicted the sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler. Baumgarth was interviewed by law enforcement and admitted to the conduct.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Anyone with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or online at https://report.cybertip.org.
The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with assistance from the FBI.
Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes prosecuted the case for the Government.
Former Georgia Poll Worker Indicted for Making Bomb Threat to Polling PlaceRead the Press Release
MACON, Ga. – A former Georgia poll worker was indicted for allegedly mailing a letter that threatened to bomb a Jones County polling place and harm poll workers and for lying to the FBI during the investigation.
Nicholas Wimbish, 25, of Milledgeville, is charged with mailing a bomb threat, conveying false information about a bomb threat, mailing a threatening letter and making false statements to the FBI. The indictment was returned by a federal grand jury on Nov. 19. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison on the mailing a bomb threat count and five years in prison on each of the mailing a threatening letter, conveying false information and making false statements counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Wimbish was previously arrested pursuant to a criminal complaint on Nov. 4 and made his initial appearance in the Middle District of Georgia on Nov. 5.
According to the indictment, Wimbish was serving as a poll worker at the Jones County Elections Office on Oct. 16, when he had a verbal altercation with a voter. Later that evening, Wimbish allegedly conducted online research to determine what information about himself would be publicly available. The following day, Wimbish mailed a letter addressed to the Jones County Elections Superintendent, purportedly from a “Jones County Voter.”
The letter was allegedly drafted to make it appear as if it came from the voter, such as by stating that Wimbish had “give[n] me hell” and that Wimbish was “conspiring votes” and “distracting voters from concentrating.” The letter threatened that Wimbish and others “should look over their shoulder,” that “I know where they go,” that “I know where they all live because I found home voting addresses for all them,” and that the “young men will get beatdown if they fight me” and “will get the treason punishment by firing squad if they fight back.” Further, the letter threatened to “rage rape” the “ladies” and warned them to “watch every move they make and look over their shoulder.” The letter concluded with a handwritten note, “PS boom toy in early vote place, cigar burning, be safe.”
The indictment alleges that Wimbish falsely told the FBI that he believed the Jones County voter sent the letter and that he had not conducted online research on himself. The letter was found on Wimbish’s computer.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary for the Middle District of Georgia; andActing Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke made the announcement.
The FBI Atlanta Field Office is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Jacob R. Steiner of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Will R. Keyes for the Middle District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force. Announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the department’s efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers — whether elected, appointed, or volunteer — are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Three years after its formation, the task force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they carry on the critical work that the task force has begun.
Under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, the task force is led by PIN and includes several other entities within the Justice Department, including the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For more information regarding the Justice Department’s efforts to combat threats against election workers, read the Deputy Attorney General’s memo.
To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found at www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/. You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at https://tips.fbi.gov/home. Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Georgia Poll Worker Indicted for Mailing Bomb Threat to Polling PlaceRead the Press Release
A former Georgia poll worker was indicted yesterday for allegedly mailing a letter that threatened to bomb a polling place and harm poll workers and for lying to the FBI during the investigation.
Nicholas Wimbish, 25, of Milledgeville, was previously arrested pursuant to a criminal complaint on Nov. 4 and made his initial appearance in the Middle District of Georgia on Nov. 5.
According to the indictment, Wimbish was serving as a poll worker at the Jones County Elections Office on Oct. 16, when he had a verbal altercation with a voter. Later that evening, Wimbish allegedly conducted online research to determine what information about himself would be publicly available. The following day, Wimbish allegedly mailed a letter addressed to the Jones County Elections Superintendent, purportedly from a “Jones County Voter.”
The letter was allegedly drafted to make it appear as if it came from the voter, such as by stating that Wimbish had “give[n] me hell” and that Wimbish was “conspiring votes” and “distracting voters from concentrating.” The letter threatened that Wimbish and others “should look over their shoulder,” that “I know where they go,” that “I know where they all live because I found home voting addresses for all them,” and that the “young men will get beatdown if they fight me” and “will get the treason punishment by firing squad if they fight back.” Further, the letter allegedly threatened to “rage rape” the “ladies” and warned them to “watch every move they make and look over their shoulder.” The letter concluded with a handwritten note, “PS boom toy in early vote place, cigar burning, be safe.”
The indictment alleges that Wimbish falsely told the FBI that he believed the Jones County voter he interacted with sent the letter and that he had not conducted online research on himself. The letter was found on Wimbish’s computer.
Wimbish is charged with mailing a bomb threat, conveying false information about a bomb threat, mailing a threatening letter, and making false statements to the FBI. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on the mailing a bomb threat count and five years in prison on each of the mailing a threatening letter, conveying false information, and making false statements counts. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary for the Middle District of Georgia; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke of the FBI Atlanta Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Atlanta Field Office is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Jacob R. Steiner of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Will R. Keyes for the Middle District of Georgia are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force. Announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the department’s efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers — whether elected, appointed, or volunteer — are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Three years after its formation, the task force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they carry on the critical work that the task force has begun.
Under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, the task force is led by PIN and includes several other entities within the Justice Department, including the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For more information regarding the Justice Department’s efforts to combat threats against election workers, read the Deputy Attorney General’s memo.
To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found at www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/. You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov. Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Former Connecticut Resident Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DANNY D. BEEMAN, 67, of Beverly Hills, Florida, and a former resident of Connecticut, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for tax evasion.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Beeman claimed to be the originator and developer of computer software technology capable of compressing electronically-stored data. In 2012, Beeman and other individuals formed a Connecticut company, identified in court documents as “Company-A,” to allow Beeman to develop the compression software. From 2013 to 2017, Company-A paid Beeman approximately $316,000 to develop the software. During this time, Beeman submitted fake invoices to Company-A seeking reimbursement for purchases of computer-related equipment that he never purchased. Beeman obtained approximately $2 million from Company-A through these fake invoices.
In total, from 2013 to 2017, Beeman received approximately $2.3 million from Company-A, all of which was taxable income. Beeman also had long-term capital gains income of approximately $1.5 million resulting from the sale of shares in Company-A. However, Beeman never filed tax returns for any of those years, resulting in a tax loss to the Internal Revenue Service of approximately $1,054,032.
Judge Bolden ordered Beeman to make full restitution.
On March 14, 2024, Beeman pleaded guilty to tax evasion.
Beeman was previously convicted in U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York for defrauding investors of a company he had formed for the purpose of promoting and selling compression software. In June 2006, he was sentenced to 46 months of imprisonment and ordered to pay more than $1.6 million in restitution. Beeman’s criminal history also includes convictions for fraud, larceny, and forgery offenses.
Beeman, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on January 8.
This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Neeraj N. Patel.
Former Baton Rouge Pediatrician Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that Antonio Felipe Belda, age 39, of Ontario, Canada, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John W. deGravelles to possession of child pornography. Belda’s conviction is punishable by a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, and up to a lifetime period of supervised release—which includes sex offender registration requirements. Belda, a Canadian citizen, may also be removed or deported from the United States upon completing his sentence.
According to admissions made during his plea, Belda used internet-based accounts and mobile applications to obtain child pornography, and he possessed the illegal content on various computers and electronic storage devices. Belda possessed approximately 171 total videos and 3,034 total images of child pornography—some involving the sexual assault of children as young as eight years old.
This matter was investigated by the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation, and the East Baton Rouge Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner, who also serves as Deputy Criminal Chief; First Assistant United States Attorney April Leon Johnson; and Trial Attorney Adam William Braskich of the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (“CEOS”).
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc.
Florida Nurse Charged with Fraudulently Diverting Fentanyl from Hospital EmployerRead the Press Release
NEWARK, N.J. – A Florida nurse was arrested today for diverting fentanyl from his hospital employer, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today.
David L. Shaeffer, 35, of St. Petersburg, Florida, is charged by complaint with unlawfully acquiring or obtaining controlled substances by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception and subterfuge. Shaeffer appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Christopher Tuite in Tampa federal court, and was released on $50,000 bond.
According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court:
From Jan. 22, 2024, through Feb. 14, 2024, Shaeffer used his position as a travel nurse to fraudulently acquire and steal vials of fentanyl on at least 143 occasions while employed at a New Jersey hospital. Shaeffer took vials of fentanyl from the hospital’s automated medication dispensing cabinets by using an override in the system to bypass the requisite doctor’s order for the dispensing of fentanyl. Shaeffer prescribed the fentanyl himself to a specified patient even though he was not authorized to prescribe controlled substances. Shaeffer would dispense fentanyl and fail to administer the substance to the specified patient or dispose of the substance; dispense fentanyl and improperly dispose of the substance; and dispense fentanyl for a specified patient who had been discharged from the hospital. Shaeffer also fraudulently obtained fentanyl in a similar way while employed as a nurse in hospitals in Florida and Pennsylvania.
The charge of unlawfully obtaining or acquiring controlled substances by fraud carries a maximum penalty of up to four years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest.
U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited task force officers and diversion investigators of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New Jersey Division, Newark District Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Cheryl Ortiz; the Jersey City Police Department, Detective Bureau, under the direction of Public Safety Director James Shea; the Drug Enforcement Administration, Tampa Field Office; and the St. Petersburg Police Department with the investigation leading to the arrest.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Chelsea D. Coleman of the Opioid Abuse Prevention and Enforcement Unit in Newark.
The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
schaeffer.complaint.pdfFlorida Insurance Broker Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Peach State Federal Credit UnionRead the Press Release
ATLANTA - Heleonel Gonzalez has pleaded guilty to bank fraud for orchestrating a $6 million scheme to defraud Peach State Federal Credit Union.
“Gonzalez devised a lucrative scheme cloaked in fraud and deception to steal loan proceeds from Peach State Federal Credit Union for his personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “This office will continue to work closely with law enforcement to investigate and prosecute those who engage in financial crimes that jeopardize the integrity of the U.S. financial system.”
“The FBI works hard to make sure greed like this doesn’t pay off and those who commit fraud are held accountable,” said Sean Burke, Acting Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The fraudulent scheme in this case harmed a Georgia business, costing it millions of dollars.”
According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges and other information presented in court: From approximately January 2023 through January 2024, Heleonel Gonzalez conducted a scheme to defraud Peach State Federal Credit Union. P1 Finance – a division of Peach State Federal Credit Union – loaned money to commercial borrowers, such as condominium associations, so that borrowers could use the loan proceeds to pay the premiums on their property and casualty insurance policies. Gonzalez owned and operated Sharp Insurance Agency, Inc. in Miami Lakes, Florida.
On at least 20 occasions, for the purpose of influencing the actions of Peach State Federal Credit Union, Gonzalez falsely and fraudulently represented to P1 Finance that a customer of Sharp Insurance Agency authorized him to apply for a premium-financing loan on the customer’s behalf. Gonzalez fraudulently signed and submitted to P1 Finance a Premium Finance Agreement and Disclosure Statement. This document falsely represented that Sharp Insurance Agency, as the agent of Citizens Property Insurance Corporation in Jacksonville, Florida, had issued a property and casualty insurance policy to the customer, and that the policy was then in force and effect. Gonzalez fraudulently represented that the loan proceeds advanced by P1 Finance would be used to pay the premiums on the policy, and for no other purpose. But Gonzalez knew these representations were false.
As a result of Gonzalez’s false and fraudulent representations, Peach State Federal Credit Union made the requested loans and transferred approximately $6 million to Gonzalez. He then used the loan proceeds to pay personal debts and expenses. Peach State Federal Credit Union would not have made the loans but for Gonzalez’s false and fraudulent representations.
Sentencing for Heleonel Gonzalez, 48, of Miami Lakes, Florida, is scheduled for February 20, 2025, at 2:00 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Steve C. Jones.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Russell Phillips is prosecuting the case.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
Fifteen Defendants Charged in Operation Targeting Conversion of Bulk U.S. Cash Proceeds from Drug Sales into Cryptocurrency for Mexican CartelsRead the Press Release
MIAMI – A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida returned a superseding indictment yesterday charging nine individuals for conspiring to launder U.S. currency into cryptocurrency on behalf of drug cartels in Mexico and Colombia and for the operation of an unlicensed money transmitting business.
These recent charges are the result of a law enforcement operation that uncovered a network of black market cryptocurrency launderers and unlicensed money transmitters. The same investigation has resulted in the conviction of three individuals and charges against an additional three individuals.
According to the superseding indictment, between 2020 and mid-2023, nine defendants and their co-conspirators worked together to pick up bulk cash, derived from drug sales in various cities throughout the United States. They would then coordinate to exchange the cash for cryptocurrency that was sent to wallets controlled by the defendants or their co-conspirators. The cryptocurrency would then be converted into cash and delivered to cartel leaders in Mexico and Colombia.
As alleged in court documents, Nilson Sneyder Vasquez Duarte, a/k/a “Sobri,” a/k/a “Sobrino,” (Duarte), 34, and co-conspirators coordinated the delivery of cash and cryptocurrency to black market cryptocurrency exchangers, including to Hernan Horacio Richard Samper (Samper), 59, Maria Eugenia Landeros Rosas, a/k/a “Yeni,” (Landeros), 52, Raimundo Carlos Rodriguez Huter (Huter), 40, Mayccol Hejeile Morales (Morales), 36, and Hernan Julian Calvo Bueno (Calvo Bueno), 34. Sergio Fernando Vargas Alvarez (Alvarez), 37, Juan Carlos Riano Muentes (Riano), 36, Jesus Ivan Rincon Martinez (Rincon), 45, Morales, and Calvo Bueno also acted as couriers, physically transporting the cash between U.S. cities.
All nine defendants are charged with one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and one count of the operation of an unlicensed money transmitting business. Duarte, Landeros, Huter, Rincon, Morales, Calvo Bueno, and Alvarez are also charged with substantive money laundering counts.
U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Special Agent in Charge Anthony Salisbury of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami, Acting Special Agent in Charge Stefanie Hipkins of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS CI), Miami Field Office, and Sheriff Gregory Tony of the Broward Sheriff’s Office (BSO) made the announcement.
HSI, IRS CI, and BSO are investigating the case under the El Dorado Task Force.
Senior Litigation Counsel Michael N. Berger and Assistant U.S. Attorney Nalina Sombuntham for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul Schwartz and Jeffrey Kaplan prosecuted prior related cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jorge R. Delgado is handling asset forfeiture.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 24-cr-20367.
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Federal Jury Convicts Montgomery Man on Drug Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
Montgomery, Ala. – Today, Acting United States Attorney Kevin Davidson announced the conviction of a Montgomery, Alabama man on federal drug charges. On November 19, 2024, a jury found 41-year-old Corey Jermaine Burroughs guilty of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, and for maintaining a drug premises.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, in 2020, law enforcement began an investigation relating to contraband being brought into an Alabama Department of Corrections (ADOC) facility. Agents eventually developed Burroughs, a former ADOC inmate, as a suspect. On April 19, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence associated with Burroughs. The search resulted in the discovery of various illegal controlled substances, including a box with marijuana and methamphetamine on the kitchen counter, as well as vacuum sealed bags of methamphetamine and fentanyl. The total amount of methamphetamine found on the premises was approximately half a kilogram. Investigators also discovered vacuum sealer equipment and a digital scale used to package and weigh the illegal drugs. Other contraband, such as wireless headphones and cell phones, were seized as well. These items are in high demand inside prison facilities. The residence appeared to be uninhabited and, on the date of the search, was only being used to package drugs for distribution.
Following these convictions, Burroughs faces a sentence of 10 years to life in federal prison with no parole. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled in the coming months.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, Alabama Department of Corrections Law Enforcement Services Division, and Montgomery Police Department investigated this case, with Assistant United States Attorneys J. Patrick Lamb and Mark E. Andreu prosecuting.
Federal Jury Convicts Maryville Man of Conspiring to Murder FBI EmployeesRead the Press Release
KNOXVILLE, Tenn. - On November 20, 2024, following a three-day trial in United States District Court, a jury convicted Edward Kelley, 35, of Maryville, Tennessee, of Conspiracy to Murder Federal Employees, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1117; Solicitation to Commit a Crime of Violence, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 373; and Influencing a Federal Official by Threat, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 115(a)(1)(B).
Kelley faces a sentence of up to life in federal prison. He will be sentenced by United States District Judge, the Honorable Thomas A. Varlan, in the United States District Court at Knoxville on May 7, 2025, at 2:00 pm.
The evidence presented at trial established that Kelley, while awaiting trial for his involvement in the January 6, 2021, Capitol riots, developed a plan to murder law enforcement, including FBI agents and employees. The proof showed that Kelley developed a “kill list” of FBI agents and others who participated in the investigation into his conduct on January 6 and that Kelley distributed this list – along with videos containing images of certain FBI employees identified on the list – to a co-conspirator as part of his “mission.”
A cooperating defendant, who previously pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy, testified that he and Kelley planned attacks on the Knoxville FBI office using car bombs and incendiary devices appended to drones. He also testified that the conspirators strategized about assassinating FBI employees in their homes and in public places such as movie theaters.
At trial, the United States introduced recordings of the defendant calling for the development of a “course of action” related to his plan. In one such recording, the defendant gave the instructions to, among other things, “start it,” “attack,” and “take out their office” in the event of his arrest. Kelley was recorded stating: “Every hit has to hurt. Every hit has to hurt.”
“The safety of our men and women in law enforcement is of paramount concern,” said United States Attorney Francis M. Hamilton III. “There is simply no room in society for those who would engage in this kind of reprehensible conduct and threaten to assassinate FBI agents and others who are honorably serving to uphold the law, and this office will pursue all such threats against civil servants working for the public good.”
“The danger posed by the defendant in this case was very real,” said Special Agent in Charge Joe Carrico of the FBI Nashville Field Office. “Today’s guilty verdict is a culmination of the tireless efforts of our dedicated employees and the invaluable partnership we have with our law enforcement partners. The FBI remains steadfast in its mission to protect the nation from threats of violent extremism.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey T, Arrowood and Kyle J. Wilson of the Eastern District of Tennessee prosecuted the case with the assistance of Trial Attorneys Jacob Warren, Tanya Senanayake, and David Smith of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
The case was investigated by the Knoxville Joint Terrorism Task Force, which is composed of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. It was led by the FBI and involved the assistance of FBI offices from across the country.
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Federal Jury Convicts Man of Conspiring to Murder FBI EmployeesRead the Press Release
Edward Kelley, 35, of Maryville, Tennessee, was convicted following a three-day trial in the Eastern District of Tennessee of conspiracy to murder federal employees, solicitation to commit a crime of violence, and influencing a federal official by threat.
The evidence presented at trial established that Kelley — while awaiting trial for his involvement in the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol breach — developed a plan to murder law enforcement, including FBI agents and employees. The proof showed that Kelley developed a “kill list” of FBI agents and others who participated in the investigation into his conduct on Jan. 6 and that Kelley distributed this list — along with videos containing images of certain FBI employees identified on the list — to a co-conspirator as part of his “mission.”
A cooperating defendant, who previously pleaded guilty to his role in the conspiracy, testified that he and Kelley planned attacks on the Knoxville FBI Field Office using car bombs and incendiary devices appended to drones. He also testified that the conspirators strategized about assassinating FBI employees in their homes and in public places such as movie theaters.
At trial, the United States introduced recordings of the defendant calling for the development of a “course of action” related to his plan. In one such recording, the defendant gave the instructions to, among other things, “start it,” “attack,” and “take out their office” in the event of his arrest. Kelley was recorded stating: “Every hit has to hurt. Every hit has to hurt.”
Kelley is scheduled to be sentenced on May 7, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Casey T. Arrowood and Kyle J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Tennessee prosecuted the case, with assistance from Trial Attorneys Jacob Warren, Tanya Senanayake, and David Smith of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.
The Knoxville Joint Terrorism Task Force, which is composed of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies investigated the case. The investigation was led by the FBI and involved the assistance of FBI offices from across the country.
Fargo, ND Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted FelonRead the Press Release
Fargo – United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced that on November 20, 2024, Kadar Udai Pearson, age 20, from Fargo, North Dakota, appeared in federal court and pleaded guilty before Chief United States District Judge Peter D. Welte to one count of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon. Pearson is detained pending sentencing, set for March 17, 2025.
As noted in court documents, in the afternoon of June 5, 2024, Fargo Police Department officers were in the area of the Arbors apartment complex after an earlier shots-fired report. They observed a person, later identified as Pearson, wearing a sweatshirt and pulling up a ski mask over his face, though the temperature was in the mid-70s. The sweatshirt pocket appeared to have something heavier than a cell phone in it. Officers further observed Pearson enter into a backyard in the neighborhood, where a resident of the home said Pearson did not have permission to be.
Officers directed Pearson to halt, but he fled on foot. As officers gave chase, one officer observed Pearson throw what appeared to be a firearm beneath a vehicle in a nearby parking lot. Surveillance cameras captured the toss. On the ground beneath the vehicle, officers found a SIG Sauer 9mm pistol, loaded with 10 rounds of ammunition, which was previously reported stolen in Fargo.
At the time of the offense, Pearson was an inmate on escape status with the North Dakota Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, under a state sentence imposed in October 2023, for his felony convictions of Possession with Intent to Deliver Fentanyl and Theft of a Firearm.
“Public safety in and around the Arbors is a high priority for this office, and when that safety is threatened we will literally make a federal case out of it,” Schneider said. “As this guilty plea shows, felons in possession of firearms who target the Arbors will be on the fast track to become defendants in United States District Court. The cooperation between our career prosecutors, Main Justice, federal law enforcement, and the Fargo Police Department was critical in this case, and we look forward to continuing this successful partnership as we work to make Fargo safer.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
This case was investigated by the Fargo Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jacob T. Rodenbiker and Trial Attorney Alyssa Levey-Weinstein in the Violent Crime and Racketeering Section of the Criminal Division at the United States Department of Justice.
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Duo sentenced for illegally selling machine gunsRead the Press Release
LAREDO, Texas – Two individuals have been sentenced for their roles in firearms trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.
Dallas resident Luis Azael Berlanga, 21, and Juan Jose Moreno Jr., 20, a Laredo resident, both pleaded guilty Nov. 20.
U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo has now imposed a 60-month term of imprisonment for Berlanga, while Moreno received 48 months. Both must serve three years of supervised release following their sentences. At the hearing, the court heard the extensive evidence that showed Berlanga led the illegal operation, which involved numerous firearm sales in the Laredo area. The firearms contained machine-gun conversion devices (MCDs) modifying semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic (and illegal) machine guns. The court noted how such machine guns are often linked to devastating mass shootings. Judge Marmolejo also emphasized the serious consequences of the duo’s actions and noted they had chances every step of the way to say no. “It only hits home when this happens to you or one of your family members,” she said.
“MCDs present a unique and insidious threat to our communities – criminals can conceal something as small as a paperclip, install it in a legal gun, quickly converting the legal handgun into a machinegun, capable of firing hundreds of rounds of ammunition per minute,” said Hamdani. “MCDs often ending up in the hands of dangerous criminals, gang members and cartel assassins. This case represents the Southern District of Texas’ continued commitment to do everything it can to keep these types of weapons off the streets of Laredo and elsewhere.”
Between Jan. 24 and May 15, authorities coordinated with Berlanga to conduct three controlled purchases of the machine guns. Undercover members of law enforcement bought six functional machine guns from Berlanga.
As part of the plea agreement, Moreno admitted to participating in the sale of machine guns alongside Berlanga.
Berlanga and Moreno have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Laredo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie Ann Cortez prosecuted the case.
The case is part of “Operation Texas Kill Switch,” a statewide initiative taking aim at MCDs, which transform commercially available semi-automatic firearms into fully-automatic weapons capable of firing faster than military-grade machine guns. U.S. Attorneys Hamdani, Leigha Simonton, Damien Diggs and Jaime Esparza of the Southern, Northern, Eastern and Western Districts of Texas, respectively, have spearheaded Operation Texas Kill Switch which relies on partnerships with state and local law enforcement as well as rewards Crime Stoppers offers.
Dominican Republic Native Charged with Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jose Rafael Polo-Sanchez, age 43, of the Dominican Republic, was indicted by a federal grand jury for illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien.
According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that Jose Rafael Polo-Sanchez was previously removed from the United States on December 3, 2019, through Alexandria, Louisiana. It is alleged that he was subsequently found in the United States on October 31, 2024, in Clinton County, Pennsylvania, without having first obtained legal permission to reenter the country.
This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant United States Attorney Tatum Wilson is prosecuting the case.
The maximum penalty under federal law for this offense is ten 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 are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.
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Domestic Abusers Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Sixth Defendant in Northern Michigan Sentenced in Six Months for Domestic-Violence Related Offenses
MARQUETTE – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Ronald Burt Krull, 56, of Kinross, Michigan, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for assault by strangulation of an intimate partner.
“The harsh reality is that millions of Americans live in fear of domestic violence every day,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten. “My office stands with victims and will continue to do everything we can to protect them and work with law enforcement partners to hold their abusers accountable.”
Krull is the sixth defendant sentenced in the last six months for domestic-violence related offenses after being charged by the Northern Division of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan. The Court previously sentenced the following defendants:
- On June 5, 2024, Steven Webster (31) of Green Bay, Wisconsin, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment for domestic assault by a habitual offender.
- On June 26, 2024, Jacob Wolf (28) of Marquette, Michigan, was sentenced to 38 months’ imprisonment for domestic assault by a habitual offender.
- On July 18, 2024, Eric Halfaday (39) of Wilson, Michigan, was sentenced to 24 months’ imprisonment for assault by strangulation of an intimate partner.
- On September 5, 2024, Jaden Plank (25) of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, was sentenced to 37 months’ imprisonment for assault by strangulation of an intimate partner.
- On November 18, 2024, Jason Michael Noguess (33) of Delta County, Michigan, was sentenced to 33 months for assault by suffocation of an intimate partner.
“Today’s sentencing of Ronald Krull, a violent offender, underscores the FBI’s commitment to investigate domestic violence related offenses on federal trust land,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “Members from the FBI in Michigan, in partnership with the Sault Tribal Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office of the Western District of Michigan, worked diligently to investigate and bring Mr. Krull to justice. Domestic violence is a terrible offense, and the FBI remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to protect victims and ensure the safety of communities across Michigan.”
The FBI, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community Police, Sault Tribal Police Department, Hannahville Police Department, Marquette City Police investigated the cases.
Domestic violence occurs throughout the country every day. It impacts victims and witnesses physically, psychologically, and socially. Unlike many crimes, domestic violence often involves years of emotional and psychological trauma, as well as physical violence that becomes increasingly frequent and more severe over time. Unfortunately, many victims do not view themselves as victims and do not realize that domestic violence is a crime perpetrated against them. Local law enforcement officers, child and family services workers, community leaders, educators, coaches, parents, siblings, and loved ones all play a critical role in identifying, intervening, and providing treatment in cases of domestic violence.
Additional information and resources related to domestic violence can be found at the Department of Justice, Office on Violence Against Women, Domestic Violence webpage, as well as through StrongHearts Native Helpline (1-844-762-8483) and the Michigan Coalition to End Domestic & Sexual Violence (1-855-863-2374).
If you or a family member has been or is being impacted by domestic violence, please contact your local law enforcement agency and local domestic violence agency.
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Davenport Man Sentenced to 192 Months in Federal Prison for Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced today to 192 months in federal prison for distribution and receipt of child pornography.
According to public court documents, in 2023, law enforcement received multiple CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that child sexual abuse material was uploaded and shared from an account on a digital storage platform. Law enforcement determined that Bob Arthur Phillips, 37, uploaded the child sexual abuse material to the digital storage account. Following multiple residential search warrants at Phillips’ residence, law enforcement seized numerous electronic devices belonging to Phillips, found to contain evidence of distributing and receiving child sexual assault material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Phillips will be required to serve an eight-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Phillips was also ordered to pay $38,000. In addition, Phillips will be required to register as a sex offender.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Scott County Sheriff’s Office.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc. For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.
Dallas Anesthesiologist Convicted of Tampering with IV Bags Sentenced to 190 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A Dallas anesthesiologist who injected dangerous drugs into patient IV bags, leading to one death and numerous cardiac emergencies, was sentenced today to 190 years in prison.
Raynaldo Riviera Ortiz Jr., 60, was charged by criminal complaint in September 2022 and indicted the following month on charges related to tampering with IV bags used at a local surgical center. In April, following an eight-day trial, a jury convicted him of four counts of tampering with consumer products resulting in serious bodily injury, one count of tampering with a consumer product and five counts of intentional adulteration of a drug. He was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge David Godbey for the Northern District of Texas, who found that Dr. Ortiz caused the death of his colleague and called his other conduct “tantamount to attempted murder.”
“The defendant betrayed the trust of patients by tampering with critical medical supplies, and the result was serious bodily injury,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of these offenses and should make clear that the department will work tirelessly to investigate and prosecute anyone who endangers patients by tampering with drugs.”
“This disgraced doctor acted no better than an armed assailant spraying bullets indiscriminately into a crowd. Dr. Ortiz tampered with random IV bags, apparently unconcerned with who he hurt. But he wielded an invisible weapon, a cocktail of heart-stopping drugs, concealed inside an IV bag designed to help patients heal,” said U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton for the Northern District of Texas. “On at least nine separate occasions, he essentially attacked unconscious patients lying on an operating table, and even killed a colleague. I am so proud of our office’s work in bringing Dr. Ortiz to justice and bringing a measure of solace to his victims and their families.”
“Patients expect that their doctors will use only safe and effective medical products during their surgeries. The illicit tampering in this case demonstrated a gross disregard for patient safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Charles L. Grinstead of the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations (FDA-OCI). “This investigation uncovered that adulterating the IV bags caused serious adverse health consequences. This sentencing is a clear demonstration that FDA will not stop pursuing and bringing to justice those who risk patients’ health and safety through their criminal actions.”
According to evidence presented at trial, between May and August 2022, numerous patients at Surgicare North Dallas suffered cardiac emergencies during routine medical procedures performed by various doctors. About one month after the unexplained emergencies began, an anesthesiologist who had worked at the facility earlier that day died while treating herself for dehydration using an IV bag. In August 2022, doctors at the surgical care center began to suspect tainted IV bags had caused the repeated crises after an 18-year-old patient had to be rushed to the intensive care unit in critical condition during a routine sinus surgery.
A local lab analyzed fluid from the bag used during the teenager’s surgery and found bupivacaine (a nerve-blocking agent), epinephrine (a stimulant) and lidocaine (an anesthetic) — a drug cocktail that could have caused the boy’s symptoms, which included very high blood pressure, cardiac dysfunction and pulmonary edema. The lab also observed a puncture in the plastic shell that had been around the IV bag.
Evidence presented at trial showed that Ortiz surreptitiously injected IV bags of saline with epinephrine, bupivacaine and other drugs, placed them into a warming bin at the facility, and waited for them to be used in colleagues’ surgeries, knowing their patients would experience dangerous complications. Surveillance video introduced into evidence showed Ortiz repeatedly retrieving IV bags from the warming bin and replacing them shortly thereafter, not long before the bags were carried into operating rooms where patients experienced complications. Video also showed Ortiz mixing vials of medication and watching as victims were wheeled out by emergency responders.
Evidence at trial showed that Ortiz was facing disciplinary action at the time for an alleged medical mistake made in his one of his own surgeries, and that he potentially faced losing his medical license.
At trial, doctors testified about the confusion they felt when their patients’ blood pressures suddenly skyrocketed. Reviewing medical records, they all noted the emergencies occurred shortly after new IV bags had been hung. Patients recalled waking up unexpectedly intubated in intensive care units they had been transported to via emergency medical transportation services, in pain and in fear for their lives.
FDA-OCI investigated the case with support from the Dallas Police Department.
Assistant Director Patrick Runkle of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney John de la Garza for the Northern District of Texas prosecuted the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gail Hayworth for the Northern District of Texas provided appellate support.
Dallas Anesthesiologist Convicted of Tampering with IV Bags Sentenced to 190 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
A Dallas anesthesiologist who injected dangerous drugs into patient IV bags, leading to one death and numerous cardiac emergencies, was sentenced today to 190 years in prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton.
Raynaldo Riviera Ortiz Jr., 60, was charged by criminal complaint in September 2022 and indicted the following month on charges related to tampering with IV bags used at a local surgical center. In April, following an eight-day trial, a jury convicted him of four counts of tampering with consumer products resulting in serious bodily injury, one count of tampering with a consumer product and five counts of intentional adulteration of a drug. He was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge David Godbey, who found that Dr. Ortiz caused the death of his colleague and called his other acts “tantamount to attempted murder.”
“The defendant betrayed the trust of patients by tampering with critical medical supplies, and the result was death and serious bodily injury,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of these offenses and should make clear that the Department will work tirelessly to investigate and prosecute anyone who endangers patients by tampering with drugs.”
“This disgraced doctor acted no better than an armed assailant spraying bullets indiscriminately into a crowd. Dr. Ortiz tampered with random IV bags, apparently unconcerned with who he hurt. But he wielded an invisible weapon, a cocktail of heart-stopping drugs, concealed inside an IV bag designed to help patients heal,” said U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton. “On at least nine separate occasions, he essentially attacked unconscious patients lying on an operating table, and even killed a colleague. I am so proud of our office’s work in bringing Dr. Ortiz to justice and bringing a measure of solace to his victims and their families.”
“Patients expect that their doctors will use only safe and effective medical products during their surgeries. The illicit tampering in this case demonstrated a gross disregard for patient safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Charles L. Grinstead of the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations (FDA-OCI). “This investigation uncovered that adulterating the IV bags caused serious adverse health consequences. This sentencing is a clear demonstration that FDA will not stop pursuing and bringing to justice those who risk patients’ health and safety through their criminal actions.”
According to evidence presented at trial, between May and August 2022, numerous patients at Surgicare North Dallas suffered cardiac emergencies during routine medical procedures performed by various doctors. About one month after the unexplained emergencies began, an anesthesiologist who had worked at the facility earlier that day died while treating herself for dehydration using an IV bag. In August 2022, doctors at the surgical care center began to suspect tainted IV bags had caused the repeated crises after an 18-year-old patient had to be rushed to the intensive care unit in critical condition during a routine sinus surgery.
A local lab analyzed fluid from the bag used during the teenager’s surgery and found bupivacaine (a nerve-blocking agent), epinephrine (a stimulant) and lidocaine (an anesthetic) — a drug cocktail that could have caused the boy’s symptoms, which included very high blood pressure, cardiac dysfunction and pulmonary edema. The lab also observed a puncture in the plastic shell that had been around the IV bag.
Evidence presented at trial showed that Ortiz surreptitiously injected IV bags of saline with epinephrine, bupivacaine and other drugs, placed them into a warming bin at the facility, and waited for them to be used in colleagues’ surgeries, knowing their patients would experience dangerous complications. Surveillance video introduced into evidence showed Ortiz repeatedly retrieving IV bags from the warming bin and replacing them shortly thereafter, not long before the bags were carried into operating rooms where patients experienced complications. Video also showed Ortiz mixing vials of medication and watching as victims were wheeled out by emergency responders.
Evidence also showed that Ortiz was facing disciplinary action at the time for an alleged medical mistake made in his one of his own surgeries, and that he potentially faced losing his medical license.
At trial, doctors testified about the confusion they felt when their patients’ blood pressures suddenly skyrocketed. Reviewing medical records, they all noted the emergencies occurred shortly after new IV bags had been hung. Patients recalled waking up unexpectedly intubated in intensive care units they had been transported to via emergency medical transportation services, in pain and in fear for their lives.
At Wednesday’s sentencing hearing, patients and their families testified about the “life-altering” pain they’d endured. The son of one victim told the Court that his 10-year-old son no longer trusts doctors, because “a doctor tried to kill Pops.” The father of another recalled with horror seeing Dr. Ortiz’s “dead fish stare” on surveillance video as his victims were wheeled out of the surgery center on gurneys. And a victim who spent five days in the hospital after his cardiac incident said he woke up feeling “all chewed up” and has never been the same since.
Dr. John Kaspar, the husband of the doctor who died after treating her dehydration with a tainted bag, told the Court the image of his wife’s “lifeless eyes” would never leave him. She was “my life,” “the strongest woman” he’d ever met, he said.
FDA-OCI Special Agents Chad Medaris and Daniel Allgeyer investigated the case with support from the Dallas Police Department. Assistant Director Patrick Runkle of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney John de la Garza for the Northern District of Texas prosecuted the case with the help of Assistant U.S. Attorney Errin Martin. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gail Hayworth for the Northern District of Texas provided appellate support.
Couple who led drug trafficking conspiracy connected to Aryan prison gang plead guiltyRead the Press Release
Seattle – Two leaders of a drug trafficking organization connected to the Aryan Family prison gang pleaded guilty to drug trafficking, money laundering, and firearms related charges today in U.S. District Court in Tacoma, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Jesse James Bailey, 40, and his wife, Candace Bailey, 42, are scheduled for sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge David G. Estudillo on February 28, 2025.
Jesse Bailey pleaded guilty to possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute in a quantity that triggers a ten-year mandatory minimum sentence. Additionally, he pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, which adds a mandatory five-year term to his prison sentence. Bailey also pleaded guilty to conspiracy to launder money. Prosecutors and the defense have agreed to recommend a sentence of 210 months in prison.
Candace Bailey pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, illegally transferring a firearm to a prohibited person, and conspiracy to commit money laundering. Prosecutors have agreed to recommend no more than ten years in prison for Candace Bailey. Chief Judge Estudillo is not bound by the recommendations and can impose any sentence allowed by law.
On Wednesday March 22, 2023, the FBI led a coordinated takedown of this criminal drug trafficking organization. They arrested two dozen people, including the Baileys. On that day law enforcement seized 177 firearms, more than ten kilograms of methamphetamine, 11 kilos of fentanyl pills and more than a kilo of fentanyl powder, three kilos of heroin, and more than $330,000 in cash from eighteen locations in Washington and Arizona.
The Baileys are forfeiting $699,268 seized from them as proceeds of criminal activity as well as 42 firearms, silencers, body armor, ammunition, scopes, and tripods seized from various storage lockers and their residence. They are also forfeiting dozens of pieces of jewelry as proceeds of their criminal conduct.
In their plea agreements, the Baileys admitted to their drug trafficking conduct. The plea agreements describe how the couple discussed various suppliers of illegal narcotics and the pricing. They discussed drug buyers as well. Due to his criminal history, Jesse Bailey was prohibited from possessing firearms, and Candace Bailey admitted she transferred firearms to Jesse Bailey knowing he was a previously convicted felon. Finally, the Baileys admitted in their plea agreements how the couple sought to launder their drug proceeds through various casinos and bank accounts.
This case 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 investigation was led by the FBI with critical investigative teamwork from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Washington State Department of Corrections and significant local assistance from the Tacoma Police Department, Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, and the Thurston County Narcotics Task Force, led by the Thurston County Sheriff’s Office. Throughout this investigation the following agencies assisted the primary investigators: Washington State Patrol, Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine, Lewis County Sheriff’s Office, Lakewood Police Department, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Zach Dillon and Max Shiner.
Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of A Firearm and AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Elijah Noah Petit-Frere (24, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. Petit-Frere faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, on March 11, 2024, an officer from the Ocala Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Petit-Frere. When Petit-Frere was placed under arrest for a driving offense, officers discovered Petit-Frere had a loaded firearm holstered on his waistband. Petit-Frere previously had been convicted of state felony offenses, including carrying a concealed firearm, fleeing and attempting to elude a police officer, and possession of more than 20 grams of marijuana. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Ocala Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This case is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence for occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Colombian Drug Kingpin Known as “Don T” Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for International Cocaine Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, Tito Aldemar Ruano Yandun, also known as “Don T,” “Don Ti,” “Don Tito,” “Pedro Linares,” “Pedro AK2,” “Santos,” “Don Tuma,” “Viejo” and “Viejo Loco,” was sentenced by United States District Court Judge William F. Kuntz, II to 20 years in prison for leading an international cocaine distribution conspiracy. Ruano Yandun pleaded guilty to the charge in March 2024. The defendant was also ordered to forfeit $1.5 million in drug proceeds.
Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, New York Division (DEA), announced the sentence.
“Today’s sentence significantly punishes the defendant for leading a prolific drug trafficking organization that exported thousands of kilograms of cocaine destined for our streets,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “International drug kingpins must face American justice for the misery they have caused in our district and country.”
Mr. Peace extended his appreciation to the DEA’s office in Bogota, Colombia, the United States Department of State, the Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs, the Colombian National Police and the Government of Colombia.
As detailed in court documents, the defendant led a sophisticated drug trafficking organization that operated in southwestern Colombia and Ecuador. His organization regularly exported multi-ton quantities of cocaine to Central America and Mexico so that it could eventually be smuggled into the United States. The defendant’s drug trafficking organization trafficked cocaine on behalf of the Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (i.e., the FARC), helping to fund the FARC’s long-running campaign to overthrow the Government of Colombia.
During the investigation, foreign and U.S. authorities seized thousands of kilograms of cocaine that were being transported by members of the defendant’s organization.
In November 2017, pursuant to the Foreign Narcotics Kingpin Designation Act, the U.S. Department of the Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) designated Ruano Yandun and his organization as Specially Designated Narcotics Traffickers for their significant role in international narcotics trafficking. At the time of the designation, OFAC stated that Ruano Yandun’s organization was “a key contributor to the increased cocaine production in the Nariño department of Colombia in recent years.” Ruano Yandun was extradited to the Eastern District of New York in October 2023.
The conviction and sentencing of Ruano Yandun are the result of an ongoing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation led by the Office and the DEA. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply. 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.
The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s International Narcotics and Money Laundering Section. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Wang is in charge of the prosecution.
The Defendant:
TITO ALDEMAR RUANO YANDUN (also known as “Don T,” “Don Ti,” “Don Tito,” “Pedro Linares,” “Pedro AK2,” “Santos,” “Don Tuma,” “Viejo” and “Viejo Loco”)
Age: 49
ColombiaE.D.N.Y. Docket No. 17-CR-27 (WFK)
Clinton Man Sentenced to 97 Months in Federal Prison for Receipt of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Clinton man was sentenced today to 97 months in federal prison for receipt of child pornography.
According to public court documents, Brent Michael Fisher, 48, possessed fifteen devices that contained child sexual abuse material, including cell phones and memory cards. Fisher came to the attention of law enforcement after his then-wife found two memory cards with child sexual abuse material of minor victims and reported it to law enforcement. The Clinton Police Department obtained search warrants for the two memory cards, as well as Fisher’s house, car, and work trailer the same day they received the report. In total, Fisher possessed more than 36,000 images and nearly 10,000 videos containing child sexual abuse material.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Fisher will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Fisher was also ordered to pay $93,000 in restitution. Fisher is required to register as a sex offender.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Clinton Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
Chinese National Admits Taking $95,000 in Elder Fraud CaseRead the Press Release
ST. LOUIS – A man from China on Tuesday admitted taking $95,000 from a 79-year-old Missouri fraud victim.
Dongyi Guo, 28, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He admitted that co-conspirators began contacting the victim in March of 2024 via telephone calls and electronic messages, claiming to represent her financial institutions and/or the Social Security Office. They falsely claimed that her financial accounts had been compromised, and that she need to pay to prevent her money from being stolen. They told her that an employee of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) would pick up the money.
Guo flew from New York City to Chicago and then rented a car to drive to the woman’s home. On March 4, he picked up $40,000 in cash. He took another $35,000 in cash the next day, and $20,000 on March 6. Guo’s co-conspirators continued to pressure the victim into providing more money. Guo was arrested on March 7 during his attempt to take an additional $15,000.
Guo is scheduled to be sentenced March 6, 2025. The conspiracy charge carries a penalty of up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both prison and a fine.
The Knox County Sheriff’s Office and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Derek Wiseman is prosecuting the case.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, contact the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting and provide resources and referrals. Reporting frauds can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available. The Federal Trade Commission also provides a hotline at 877-FTC-HELP and a website at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov to receive consumer complaints.
Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Charleston Methamphetamine Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – John Wayne Harkless, 46, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Harkless admitted to a role in a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) that distributed methamphetamine in the Charleston area.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from in or about January 2024 to in or about May 2024, Harkless conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in Charleston and within the Southern District of West Virginia.
Harkless sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant on nine separate occasions during the investigation. Investigators were able to confirm that Harkless was obtaining his methamphetamine from co-conspirator Kirt Ray King.
Harkless is scheduled to be sentenced on February 12, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine.
Co-defendant Michael Dale Cain, 49, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty November 6, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, admitting to a role in the drug trafficking conspiracy, and awaits sentencing. The indictment against King, 47, of Charleston, and another defendant remains pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is prosecuting the case.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
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. 2:24-cr-95.
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Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Role in Charleston Methamphetamine Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
CHARLESTON, W.Va. – John Wayne Harkless, 46, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Harkless admitted to a role in a Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO) that distributed methamphetamine in the Charleston area.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from in or about January 2024 to in or about May 2024, Harkless conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine in Charleston and within the Southern District of West Virginia.
Harkless sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant on nine separate occasions during the investigation. Investigators were able to confirm that Harkless was obtaining his methamphetamine from co-conspirator Kirt Ray King.
Harkless is scheduled to be sentenced on February 12, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine.
Co-defendant Michael Dale Cain, 49, of Parkersburg, pleaded guilty November 6, 2024, to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, admitting to a role in the drug trafficking conspiracy, and awaits sentencing. The indictment against King, 47, of Charleston, and another defendant remains pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).
United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe is prosecuting the case.
The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The program was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.
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. 2:24-cr-95.
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Cape Cod Man Sentenced to over Six Years in Prison for Fentanyl, Fentanyl Analogue and Cocaine OffensesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A Cape Cod man was sentenced today for drug distribution offenses.
Terrance Cardoza, 28, of Mashpee, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to 78 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release. In July 2024, Cardoza pleaded guilty to one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl; two counts of distribution and possession of 10 grams or more of fentanyl analogue; and one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
On four dates in June, July, September and November 2023, Cardoza met a confidential source in Falmouth and East Falmouth and sold the confidential source narcotics, including fentanyl and fentanyl analogue. At the time of his arrest in January 2024, approximately 758 grams of cocaine was recovered from Cardoza’s vehicle.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration New England Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Falmouth, Mashpee and Yarmouth Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Mackenzie Duane of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
California Man Arrested for Money Laundering Conspiracy in Connection with Online Pharmacy WebsitesRead the Press Release
BOSTON – A California man has been arrested and charged in federal court in Boston in connection with a money laundering conspiracy.
Jimmy Fu, 63, of West Hills, Calif., was charged by a criminal complaint with one count of a money laundering conspiracy. Fu was arrested on Oct. 30, 2024, and appeared initially in the Central District of California where he resides. Following an initial appearance today in federal court in Boston, Fu was allowed to remain on conditions of release.
According to the charging documents, since in or around November 2022, law enforcement has been investigating two online pharmacies believed to be operated out of India that advertised controlled substances for sale and distributing misbranded and counterfeit drugs, including drugs that contain controlled substances. The investigation revealed that online orders placed by customers in the United States were filled in several ways, including by illicit pill press locations operating in the United States as well as via shipments from overseas locations, with several illicit pill manufacturing locations identified as being involved in the shipment and fulfillment of orders. During the investigation, a variety of counterfeit prescription drugs, some of which contained controlled substances, were obtained via 18 undercover purchases. One undercover purchase of 60 Adderall pills was found to contain methamphetamine and caffeine. Another undercover purchase of 90 Adderall pills contained no active pharmaceutical ingredient.
It is alleged that Fu was identified as the operator of Axson Engineering, Inc., doing business in Canoga Park, Calif. as “Axson Data.” The business allegedly processed customer payments for controlled substances from the online pharmacies and wired the proceeds of these illegal purchases to various businesses located overseas. It is alleged that the wires were directed to a number of different businesses that identify as information technology consulting businesses, among other things.
It is further alleged that all 18 undercover purchases for prescription drugs were processed by Fu’s business, Axson Data, with each of the payments deposited into an Axson bank account. A review of all of Axson’s bank accounts allegedly revealed thousands of checks deposited from individuals across the United States, including Massachusetts, for various amounts of money ranging from hundreds to thousands of dollars. At least some of these payments allegedly correspond to purchases from the network of online pharmacy websites. It is alleged that, between January 2021 and August 2024, Axson accounts appeared to have received approximately $11.5 million from individuals across the United States.
A search warrant executed for an Apple account associated with Axson allegedly revealed, among other things, a photo of a cell phone displaying an image of a drug test showing a positive indicator for methamphetamine, followed by a text message that read: “I ordered Adderall . . . I got this . . . it’s pressed meth. I said if they don’t have real Adderall I would take 20mg Ritalin to replace. They refused unless I sent these back (which is highly illegal).”
The charge of money laundering conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $500,000 or twice the funds laundered, whichever is greater. 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.
Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations, New England; and Special Agent in Charge Fernando McMillan, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations New York Field Office made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations in West Palm Beach, Fla., Northridge, Calif., and Las Vegas; Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Investigation; U.S. Customs & Border Protection; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; Federal Air Marshal; U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California; Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office; and the Quincy, Framingham and Henderson, Nev. Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys J. Mackenzie Duane of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit, Alexandra Amrhein of the Asset Recovery Unit and Leslie Wright of the Health Care Fraud Unit are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf.
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.
Burlington Man Sentenced to 230 Months in Federal Prison for Distributing MethRead the Press Release
DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Burlington man was sentenced yesterday to 230 months in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine.
According to public court documents, David Lee Davis, Jr., 38, distributed approximately two pounds of methamphetamine to an undercover law enforcement officer in October 2022. At the time, Davis was under a term of federal supervised release for a 2012 conviction for conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Davis’s term of supervised release was revoked, and he was sentenced to 51-months consecutive to his 230-months sentence.
After completing his term of imprisonment, Davis will be required to serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Quad Cities Metropolitan Enforcement Group, Southeast Iowa Narcotics Task Force, Davenport Police Department, Scott County Special Operations Unit, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.