title: Nevada Woman Sentenced to Prison for Fentanyl Crime

body_text: HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Jamie Lyn Music, 41, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced today to five years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute a quantity of fentanyl. According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 24, 2021, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle in which Music and Raymond Jaquette Howard were passengers on Interstate 64 near Huntington, West Virginia. Officers searched the vehicle and found approximately 399.6 grams of fentanyl in a backpack. Music admitted that she possessed and intended to sell the fentanyl. Howard, 35, of Las Vegas, Nevada, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl on October 11, 2022. Howard admitted that he intended to sell the fentanyl found in the backpack or direct others to sell the fentanyl on his behalf. Howard also admitted to selling approximately 1.01 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant at a Huntington motel on September 22, 2021. On November 16, 2021, law enforcement officers searched Howard’s motel room and found approximately 4.6 pounds of fentanyl and a loaded Glock 43x pistol hidden in the ceiling. Howard admitted that he intended to sell the fentanyl. Howard was sentenced on January 17, 2023, to 14 years and eight months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release United States Attorney Will Thompson made today’s announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Violent Crime and Drug Task Force West, and the West Virginia State Police. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor prosecuted the case. This case was prosecuted as part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (SOS), an enforcement surge that has sought to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas. 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. 3:22-cr-102. ###


title: Kanawha County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Isaiah Vaniah McDade, 46, of South Charleston, pleaded guilty today to distribution of a quantity of fentanyl and a quantity of methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, between August 10, 2022 and September 16, 2022, McDade sold approximately 5 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant over the course of five separate transactions. McDade admitted to those transactions and further admitted to selling the confidential informant a quantity of methamphetamine during the September 2, 2022 transaction and 3.46 grams of cocaine during the September 16, 2022 transaction. From November 3, 2022 through December 2, 2022, McDade discussed the distribution of controlled substances during phone calls intercepted by law enforcement officers. McDade admitted that those intercepted discussions were of the distribution of 33.5 grams of heroin, 7 grams of methamphetamine and 30.8 grams of cocaine. On August 17, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at McDade’s residence and seized $5,115. McDade is scheduled to be sentenced on April 18, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT). MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney JC MacCallum is prosecuting 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. 2:23-cr-143. ###


title: Ohio Man Found Guilty of Felony and Misdemeanor Charges Related to the Breach of the U.S. Capitol

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: WASHINGTON – An Ohio man was found guilty in the District of Columbia today of felony and misdemeanor charges for his actions in inciting the mob with a bullhorn during the Jan. 6, 2021, Capitol breach. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election. William Dunfee, 58, of Frazeysburg, Ohio, was found guilty of two felony charges of obstruction of an official proceeding or aiding and abetting and civil disorder. Dunfee was also convicted of a misdemeanor charge of entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds. Dunfee was convicted following a bench trial before U.S. District Judge Reggie B. Walton. He is scheduled to be sentenced on May 24, 2024. According to court documents, Dunfee, a pastor of the New Beginnings Ministry Warsaw, in Warsaw, Ohio, posted a video to social media on Dec. 27, 2020, via the Ministry’s Facebook page, telling his congregation that “The Government, the tyrants, the socialists, the Marxists, the progressives, the RINOs, they fear you. And they should. Our problem is we haven’t given them reason to fear us.” Later he stated, “As I said earlier in another previous sermon is this, they used to tell us, you know what, you settle your differences at the ballot. How did that work out for us? It’s not over.” He added, “January 4th through 6th … Are you ready?” On Jan. 6, 2021, Dunfee illegally entered the Capitol grounds and, using a bull horn, he repeatedly exhorted the crowd. In a video filmed at the Capitol, Dunfee tells the mob: “This election has been stolen right out from underneath of our noses and it is time for the American people to rise up. Rise up. Rise up. Today is the day in which it is that these elected officials realize that we are no longer playing games. That we are not sheeple that are just going to be corralled according to their whims and their wills.” Later in the video, Dunfee stated, “We will stand up for our country. We are standing up for our freedoms. We are standing up for our president. And today is the day these elected officials, these senators and these congressmen, understand that we are not going to allow this to continue any longer.” At 1:35 p.m., Dunfee announced: “Mister police officers, we want you to understand something. We want you to understand something. We want Donald Trump and if Donald Trump is not coming, we are taking our house. We are taking our house.” Minutes later, at 1:44 p.m., Dunfee pushed a metal barricade against officers with the U.S. Capitol Police, who were attempting to hold the line. He pushed against the barricade a second time at approximately 1:58 p.m. He moved to the front of a crowd of rioters at the East Front entrance to the Capitol. Dunfee walked away from the East Front doors as others moved into the building, but he remained in the area. As rioters exited the building, one stated, “We did it. We shut ‘em all down. We did our job.” Dunfee responded, “Hallelujah,” and later told the crowd, “Mission accomplished.” Surveillance cameras captured Dunfee’s actions that day. Three images showed Dunfee physically resisting U.S. Capitol Police by pushing against a metal barricade and entering the restricted areas of the U.S. Capitol grounds. This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Ohio. This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Cincinnati Field Office. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the U.S. Capitol Police, and the Metropolitan Police Department. In the 36 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,265 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 440 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.


title: Lexington Man Sentenced to 38 Years for Production and Distribution of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. — A Lexington man, Mayank Patel, 58, was sentenced on Monday, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, to 38 years in federal prison, for production and distribution of child pornography. According to his plea agreement, Patel admitted producing images and videos of himself sexually assaulting a minor victim and possessing those depictions on his electronic devices. Patel also admitted to being a part of at least 30 online communities that specifically existed to receive and distribute child sexual abuse material. Patel received, distributed, and possessed hardcore and violent child sexual abuse material that included serious bodily harm to infants as part of his participation in these various online communities. Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Rana Saoud, Special Agent in Charge, Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Phillip J. Burnett, Commissioner of the Kentucky State Police (KSP); and Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department, jointly announced the sentencing. Under federal law, Patel must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for life. The investigation was conducted by HSI, KSP, and the Lexington Police Department. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Roth. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted this case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . -END-


title: Two More Plead Guilty to Roles in Huntington Methamphetamine Trafficking Organization

body_text: HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Kayla Dawn Powell, 37, of Hurricane, and Donald James Duty, 52, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to distribution of fentanyl. Powell and Duty admitted to their roles in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) responsible for distributing large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Huntington area. According to court documents and statements made in court, Powell admitted to participating in the distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl with others from at least June 2023 through November 2023. During that period, Powell received quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl from a source or from others at the source’s direction in the Huntington area that she distributed to various customers in the Southern District of West Virginia. On June 6, 2023, Powell sold approximately 3.6 grams of fentanyl to a confidential informant for $250 in a vehicle parked at a business on MacCorkle Avenue in St. Albans. Powell admitted to the transaction and to arranging it with the confidential informant beforehand. On November 15, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Duty’s Jackson Avenue residence in Huntington and seized 19 firearms, approximately 73 grams of suspected fentanyl and approximately 108 grams of suspected methamphetamine. Duty admitted that he intended to distribute the seized fentanyl and methamphetamine. Powell is scheduled to be sentenced on May 28, 2024, and Duty is scheduled to be sentenced on May 20, 2024. Each faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine. Powell and Duty are among 27 individuals indicted in a 53-count indictment that charges the defendants with distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl transported from Detroit, Michigan, in Huntington and other locations within the Southern District of West Virginia. Co-defendant Denzil Roger Grant II, 50, of Hurricane, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine on January 17, 2024, and awaits sentencing. The indictment against the other defendants remains pending. An indictment is merely an allegation and the 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), the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearings. Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph F. Adams and Stephanie Taylor are 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. 3:23-cr-180. ###


title: Eleven Indicted on Federal Drug Trafficking, Money Laundering Charges

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A federal grand jury returned a seven-count indictment charging eleven individuals in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of fentanyl, meth and cocaine in southern Illinois and across the country. The indictment charges: Rogelio Martinez-Becerra, also known as “Rodrigo” or “Chaparro” (Shorty), 35, of St. Louis; Jose Manuel Garcia-Ramirez, also known as “Panzon” (Potbellied), 34, of Bakersfield, California; Ricardo Lopez, also known as “Ricardito”, 35, of St. Louis; Gustavo Torres-Yerena, also known as “Ojos verdes” (Green eyes), 60, of San Bernadino, California; Oscar Daniel Barajas-Lopez, also known as “Danny”, 21, of O’Fallon, Missouri; Jaime Barajas, 40, of O’Fallon, Missouri; Dary Axel Amaya-Gomez, also known as “Colombiano”, 31, of Bridgeton, Missouri; Deangelo Barnes, also known as “Lentes” (Glasses), 37, of Florissant, Missouri; David Howard, also known as “Siete” (Seven), 52, of Florissant, Missouri; Carolina Lopez-Hinojosa, also known as “La Morena”, 39, of Granite City, Illinois; and Monica Chavez, 26, of O’Fallon, Missouri. “Law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work together to dismember organized crime rings responsible for distributing drugs and wreaking havoc in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. According to court documents, the drug conspiracy involved an organized effort to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl, five kilograms of cocaine and 50 grams of methamphetamine from at least August 2022 to December 2023 in Madison and St. Clair counties. Martinez-Becerra, Barajas-Lopez and Chavez are also accused of distributing more than 50 grams of methamphetamine in Madison County in April 2023. “Let me be clear: when it comes to protecting our communities against poly-drug trafficking organizations, there are no boundaries, no safe havens and no stones left unturned when you supply deadly drugs,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Joseph Dixon, head of Drug Enforcement Administration investigations in southern Illinois. “DEA and our law enforcement partners will stop at nothing and relentlessly pursue those responsible who distribute the powerfully addictive combination of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine. With this action, we intend to serve warning to other drug dealers to stay out of our communities or be prosecuted for their actions.” The indictment also charged Martinez-Becerra, Garcia-Ramirez, Barajas-Lopez, Amaya-Gomez, Barnes and Lopez-Hinojosa with international money laundering conspiracy for allegedly transferring funds from Illinois to Mexico to promote the drug trafficking enterprise. “Money laundering fuels drug trafficking as it enables criminals to manipulate our financial systems and hide the immense amount of harm their activities cause,” said Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Murdock, St. Louis Field Office. In addition, Martinez-Becerra is facing three counts of international money laundering for allegedly wiring more than $7,000 from Collinsville, Illinois, to various locations in Mexico from May through July 2023. Hinojosa is also accused of conducting international money laundering by sending more than $2,000 from Collinsville, Illinois, to Sinaloa, Mexico, in July 2023. Nine of the eleven indicted defendants have been arrested and are scheduled to stand trial at the federal courthouse in East St. Louis. An indictment is merely a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury. Agents with DEA and IRS Criminal Investigation contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Quinley is prosecuting the case. This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces 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.


title: Manchester Woman Pleads Guilty for Her Role in a Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl and Cocaine

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A Manchester woman pleaded guilty today in federal court for her role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine. Katie Girgus, age 30, is the second of the 22 defendants in this conspiracy to plead guilty, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces. The defendant pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, namely, fentanyl and cocaine. U.S. District Court Judge Samantha Elliott scheduled sentencing for April 30, 2024. The defendant was indicted on April 26, 2023. According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, the defendant sold a total of approximately 50 grams of fentanyl and 3.5 grams of crack cocaine between June and November of 2022. Customers would call a phone number for a “dispatch” line used to purchase narcotics and would speak to a dispatcher who would put the defendant in touch with the customer to complete the drug sale. The defendant would then arrange to meet with the customer, primarily in Manchester, to sell them drugs. She would often meet the customer at an agreed-upon address, pick the customer up in her car, and complete the drug transaction inside the car. The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 20 years in prison, at least three (3) years of supervised release, and a maximum fine of $1,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Drug Enforcement Administration led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron Gingrande and Jarad Hodes are prosecuting the case. This effort 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 . ###


title: Moss Point Man Sentenced to over 16 Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute 14 Grams of Fentanyl

component: Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF)

body_text: Gulfport, Miss. – A Moss Point man was sentenced to a total of 195 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 14 grams of fentanyl. Richard Terrell Magee, 39, was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Gulfport. According to court documents, on July 28, 2022, agents conducted a controlled purchase of 14 grams of fentanyl from Magee in Jackson County, Mississippi. Magee was indicted by a federal grand jury on March 21, 2023. He pled guilty on October 19, 2023, to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. According to the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, fentanyl is approximately 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin. The DEA reports that two milligrams of fentanyl can be lethal, and one kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. More facts on fentanyl can be found at https://www.dea.gov/resources/facts-about-fentanyl and https://www.dea.gov/resources/facts-about-fentanyl . U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives made the announcement. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.


title: Moss Point Man Sentenced to Over 21 Years in Prison  for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

body_text: Gulfport, Miss. – A Moss Point man was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute over 112 grams of methamphetamine. Ronald Charles Glaude, Jr. AKA “Bug”, 34, was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Gulfport. According to court documents, on February 22, 2019, law enforcement agents utilized a confidential informant to purchase a clear plastic bag containing a total package weight of approximately 112.5 grams of methamphetamine for $1600.00 from Glaude at a residence in Moss Point, Mississippi. Glaude was indicted by a federal grand jury and he pled guilty on October 26, 2023, to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Acting Special Agent in Charge Rebekah Day of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor- led, intelligence driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pascagoula Police Department, and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.


title: Former Marfa Substitute Teacher Pleads Guilty to Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: ALPINE – Sonya Conchita Murillo, 32, who was a substitute teacher for the Marfa Independent School District, pleaded guilty last week to one count of production of child pornography. According to court documents, during an investigation involving Murillo’s former boyfriend, Patricio Javier Serrano, 36, for possessing child sexual abuse materials, videos also were found of Murillo sexually abusing a minor. Murillo pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography. A sentencing date has not been set. Murillo faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Murillo has been in federal custody since her arrest on June 7, 2023. Serrano, who was charged in a separate indictment, was arrested on May 11, 2023, and has remained in federal custody since his arrest. Serrano, a former Marfa youth softball coach, pleaded guilty on October 27, 2023, to one count of transportation of child pornography, aiding and abetting and one count of possession of child pornography. He faces no less than five and up to 20 years in prison for the transportation charge, and up to 20 years in prison for the possession charge. Serrano’s sentencing date is set for February 27, 2024. U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza of the Western District of Texas; FBI Special Agent in Charge John S. Morales, El Paso Field Office; and HSI Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola, El Paso Division, made the announcement. The FBI, HSI, Texas Department of Public Safety, and Marfa Police Department are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy Greenbaum and Kevin Cayton are prosecuting the case. 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 www.justice.gov/psc . ###


title: Key figure in Operation Ghost Busted sentenced to nearly 30 years in prison in drug trafficking conspiracy

body_text: BRUNSWICK, GA: A Glynn County, Ga., woman who was a large-scale meth trafficker and also worked with a corrupt guard to smuggle drugs into prison has been sentenced to nearly 30 years in federal prison. Rachael P. Byrd , a/k/a “Byrd is the Word,” 26, of Waverly, Ga., was sentenced to 324 months in prison after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute, and to Distribute, 50 Grams or More of Methamphetamine, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood also ordered Byrd to serve five years of supervised release upon completion of her prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. “Rachael Byrd provided a pipeline from an Atlanta methamphetamine supplier to a corrupt prison guard, and to the conspiracy’s leader inside prison walls,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “She fueled meth addiction in communities throughout south Georgia, and this substantial sentence holds her accountable.” Operation Ghost Busted, unsealed in January 2023 as USA v. Alvarez et al., charged 76 defendants with involvement in a drug trafficking conspiracy – linked to the white supremacist Ghost Face Gangsters – that distributed large amounts of high-grade methamphetamine, along with fentanyl, heroin, and alprazolam in the greater Glynn County area. Byrd served as a leader in the drug trafficking organization, transporting and distributing multiple kilos of meth from an Atlanta-area supplier to other distributors and street-level dealers in south Georgia. She served as the outside link to her boyfriend, James D. NeSmith , 26, who was an inmate serving a life sentence for murder in Telfair State Prison, relaying his instructions to others in the conspiracy. Byrd also supplied meth to former prison guard Desiree M. Briley , 26, of McRae-Helena, Ga., who smuggled the drugs to NeSmith in prison. NeSmith was sentenced to life in federal prison after pleading guilty, and Briley was sentenced to 18 months in prison. For more than two years, investigators from the FBI Coastal Georgia Violent Gang Task Force, the Glynn County Police Department, the Brunswick Police Department, the Glynn County Sheriff's Office, and the Camden County Sheriff's Office collaborated with multiple federal, state and local agencies to identify a sprawling drug trafficking network operating in multiple south Georgia counties. The network operated inside and outside Georgia prisons, coordinated by members of the Ghost Face Gangsters working with affiliates of other criminal street gangs including the Aryan Brotherhood, Bloods, and Gangster Disciples. Before their indictment in Operation Ghost Busted, the defendants in the case had a combined total of more than 245 prior felony convictions. Nearly 70 of the defendants have been sentenced or await sentencing after entering guilty pleas in U.S. District Court, while the remainder await further court proceedings and are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. “Byrd helped to lead a major drug trafficking organization that was responsible for plaguing the streets of our communities with drugs and crime, and she learned the fate for her corruptions,” said Will Clarke, Senior Supervisory Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Brunswick Office. “This significant sentence is the result of the hard work and coordination of our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners working to bring illegal drug trafficking to an end in Georgia.” “The sentencing of Rachael Byrd is yet another strike against the powerful and violent drug trafficking organizations whose reach stretches across international borders and directly threatens our communities in the United States,” said Beau Kolodka, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “ATF will continue to work together with our law enforcement partners on both sides of the border to pursue those who threaten our communities through the smuggling and distribution of illegal and dangerous drugs.” “Illegal drugs are dangerous and threaten the safety of Georgia communities,” said Georgia Bureau of Investigation Director Chris Hosey. “The GBI is committed to working with our local and federal partners to investigate the horrific crimes connected to criminal street gangs.” Operation Ghost Busted was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Agencies involved in the investigation include the FBI Coastal Georgia Violent Gang Task Force; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; the Georgia Bureau of Investigation; the Georgia Department of Corrections; the Georgia Department of Community Supervision; the Glynn County Police Department; the Brunswick Police Department; the Glynn County Sheriff’s Office; and sheriff’s offices from Pierce, Camden, Wayne, Treutlen, McIntosh, Toombs, Telfair, Dodge, and Ware counties. The case is being prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer J. Kirkland and Criminal Division Deputy Chief E. Greg Gilluly Jr.


title: Lynn Man Who Was Arrested at Logan Airport Transporting Nearly $40,000 in Drug Proceeds Sentenced

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Lynn man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for his role in a North Shore-based drug trafficking organization (DTO) that manufactured and distributed tens of thousands of counterfeit prescription pills containing narcotics. Melvin Nieves, 25, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor IV to 27 months in prison and three years of supervised release. In October 2023, Nieves pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances. Nieves was among 23 individuals charged in October 2022 in connection with a wide-ranging conspiracy to traffic counterfeit prescription pills. The defendants were subsequently indicted along with two additional alleged co-conspirators in December 2022. According to court documents, the DTO distributed counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl and counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine, among other things, to various individuals in the Lynn area. Nieves is the second defendant to be sentenced in the case. Nieves was responsible for the distribution of approximately 400 counterfeit oxycodone pills containing undisclosed amounts of fentanyl. At the time of Nieves’ arrest in October 2022, he had just checked a suitcase at Logan Airport that contained $30,000 in cash drug proceeds he was transporting to California to purchase additional controlled substances. Nieves also possessed an additional $8,054 in drug proceeds, as well as assorted jewelry and a Louis Vuitton bag – both of which were purchased from earlier drug sales. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Division; and John E. Mawn Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Beverly, Everett, Peabody, Revere, Salem, Saugus and Swampscott Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James E. Arnold and Evan D. Panich of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case. This effort 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 indictment are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: New Orleans Women Sentenced  for Involvement in Gang Case

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JASMINE GRIFFIN and BYRONEISHA BUTLER , were sentenced on January 18, 2024 by U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo for their involvement in a gang case. GRIFFIN previously pled guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 371, and Misprision of a Felony, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 4. BYRONEISHA BUTLER also previously pled guilty to Misprision of a Felony. U.S. District Judge Milazzo sentenced GRIFFIN to two years’ probation for each charge, to run concurrently, and a $200.00 mandatory special assessment fee. Judge Milazzo sentenced BUTLER to two years’ probation, a $500.00 fine, and a mandatory $200.00 special assessment fee. According to public documents, in 2019, the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated a group responsible for committing violent crimes and illegal drug trafficking, primarily in New Orleans East and the Ninth Ward. GRIFFIN and BUTLER , and eight others, were involved in conspiracies to possess firearms, traffic drugs and commit armed robberies of drug dealers. 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. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department, and the St. Bernard Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Maurice Landrieu of the Narcotics Unit and Elizabeth Privitera, Chief of the Violent Crime Unit.


title: Operation Smoke and Mirrors Update: Charleston Man Sentenced to Prison for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking Organization

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Les Van Bumpus, 35, of Charleston, was sentenced today to eight years and nine months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. Bumpus admitted to his role in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) that operated in the Charleston area. According to court documents and statements made in court, between December 2022 and March 22, 2023, Bumpus was living in Dunbar and conspired with others to distribute what he believed was heroin but now knows was fentanyl. Bumpus admitted to purchasing fentanyl from a co-defendant who often fronted the fentanyl to him and allowed Bumpus to pay him back after he sold it. On March 22, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Bumpus’ Dunbar residence and found approximately 89 grams of fentanyl and a loaded Smith & Wesson .40-caliber pistol. Bumpus admitted to making at least $500 in profit per week from distributing fentanyl. Bumpus has a long criminal history that includes three prior felony convictions for offenses including distribution of 5 grams or more of cocaine base in United States District Court for the Southern District of West Virginia on April 15, 2010, and being a person prohibited from possessing firearms in Kanawha County Circuit Court on January 27, 2020. Bumpus is among 32 individuals indicted as a result of Operation Smoke and Mirrors, a major drug trafficking investigation that has yielded the largest methamphetamine seizure in West Virginia history. Law enforcement seized well over 400 pounds of methamphetamine as well as 40 pounds of cocaine, 3 pounds of fentanyl, 19 firearms and $935,000 in cash. Bumpus is among 27 defendants who have pleaded guilty. Indictments against the other defendants are 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), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the West Virginia State Police, the West Virginia National Guard Counter Drug program, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Charleston Police Department, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office and the Raleigh County Sheriff's Office. MDENT is composed of the Charleston Police Department, the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office, the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office, the Nitro Police Department, the St. Albans Police Department and the South Charleston Police Department. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jeremy B. Wolfe prosecuted 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. 2:23-cr-31. ###


title: Farmington Man Accused of Attempted Carjacking

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City, Utah, returned an indictment charging a Utah man for attempted carjacking of a vehicle in Salt Lake City. According to court documents, Kay Elder, 36, of Farmington, Utah, allegedly approached a 57- year-old victim parked at Home Depot at 328 West 2100 South in Salt Lake City on January 3, 2024. Elder allegedly opened the driver’s door and began yelling at the victim to get out of the car and give him the keys. The victim exited the car and Elder attempted to strike and kick the victim but missed. Elder then grabbed the victim and threw him into a tree. The victim fell to the ground and remained there while Elder got into the victim’s car and attempted to drive away. However, the victim had the car key FOB, and the defendant couldn’t start the car. Witnesses observed the incident and called police. Officers quickly arrived at the scene and observed Elder running from the car into oncoming traffic. Officers attempted to stop Elder, but he continued to flee and ignored multiple commands to stop. Elder grabbed a metal sign from a nearby gas station and threw it at the pursuing officers. The officers then tased Elder and he was taken into custody. Elder is charged with attempted carjacking. His initial court appearance on the indictment was Jan. 22, 2024, before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. U.S. Attorney, Trina A. Higgins, of the District of Utah made the announcement. An FBI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department is investigating the case. Assistant United States Attorney Carlos Esqueda of the District of Utah is prosecuting 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. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty  for Possessing Firearm as a Felon

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on January 18, 2024, LARYAN REED , age 20, of Orleans Parish, pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). REED’s sentencing is set for April 18, 2024. As a consequence, REED faces up to 15 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100.00. According to court records, on February 17, 2023, the Friday before Mardi Gras, officers observed REED walking on Bourbon Street with an object shaped like a firearm in his waistband. When officers attempted to stop REED , he physically resisted but was eventually, detained, and found in possession of a firearm. 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. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, as well as the New Orleans Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime Unit .


title: Alien Smuggling Coordinator Who Recruited on Snapchat Sentenced to 71 Months in Prison

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Nathanael Alley Rivera, 23, of Eloy, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge Jennifer G. Zipps to 71 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Rivera pleaded guilty on September 6, 2023, to Conspiracy to Transport Illegal Aliens for Profit for his supervisory role in a criminal conspiracy to transport hundreds of undocumented noncitizens for financial gain. From May 2021 through November 2022, Rivera recruited drivers and mid-level coordinators for alien smuggling transportation by posting solicitations on Snapchat. The Snapchat posts often included photos of large sums of money, firearms, and requests for drivers to move undocumented noncitizens from locations near the United States/Mexico border further into the United States. While committing these crimes, Rivera used Snapchat to communicate directly with his mid-level coordinators who would then communicate with the transport drivers. The conspiracy involved the transportation of hundreds of undocumented noncitizens, and Rivera bragged to other co-conspirators about transporting people in overcrowded vehicles and in generally unsafe conditions. He also used minors to facilitate certain smuggling events. During the first months of the conspiracy, Rivera was on probation for a previous alien smuggling conviction. Homeland Security Investigations - Douglas office conducted the investigation in this case. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-22-02699-TUC-JGZ-JR RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-005_Rivera # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Former Bryant High School Teacher Pleads Guilty To Transportation Of A Minor To Engage In Illegal Sexual Activity

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced today that a former Bryant High School teacher has pleaded guilty to transporting a minor across state lines for the purpose of unlawful sexual activity. Heather Hare, 33, of Conway, entered this guilty plea earlier today before United States District Judge Lee P. Rudofsky. Judge Rudofsky will sentence Hare at a later date. Transportation of a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity is punishable by not less than 10 years imprisonment and up to life imprisonment, and not less than five years of supervised release. The investigation into Hare revealed that Hare taught Family Consumer Science classes at Bryant High School and met the minor victim on his first day of his senior year. Hare began one-on-one counseling sessions with the minor victim, eventually giving him her personal phone number and primarily communicating with him through Instagram and Snapchat. Hare later told the minor victim that she had a dream of them having sex and gave him her home address in Conway. The minor victim and Hare had sex approximately 20 to 30 times throughout the 2021-2022 school term, including multiple times at her Conway residence, in her vehicle, and in her classroom and parking lots at Bryant High School. Between April 21 and April 24, 2022, Hare was the sponsor and chaperone for a field trip to Washington, D.C., as part of an extracurricular activity related to the Family Consumer Science courses Hare taught. During the field trip, which included four students, of which the minor victim was the only male student, Hare and the minor victim engaged in the unlawful sexual activity to which she pleaded guilty. “This former teacher took advantage of her position of trust and the vulnerability of a minor, using her role to entice and lure this minor into engaging in unlawful sexual activity,” Ross said. “Our office will continue to seek significant penalties against any educational professional who sexually abuse their students.” Hare was indicted on August 1, 2023, and charged with one count of interstate/foreign travel for prostitution/sexual activity by coercion and one count of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. In exchange for her guilty plea, the remaining charge was dismissed. The case was investigated by the FBI, Bryant Police Department, and Saline County Sheriff’s Office and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kristin Bryant. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @EDARNEWS


title: Former Marianna Borough Tax Collector Sentenced for Mail Fraud

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Marianna Borough, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two years of probation, including 90 days of home detention, on her conviction for mail fraud, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. United States District Judge W. Scott Hardy imposed the sentence on Erica Pinkney, 39. A hearing to determine the amount of restitution owed by Pinkney will be held in April. According to information presented to the court, Pinkney previously served as the Secretary and Tax Collector for Marianna Borough. While employed in those roles, Pinkney used the Borough’s credit cards to pay for personal purchases. Then, to pay toward the balance of those credit cards, Pinkney used money that had been collected from Borough residents as payment for their tax, water, and garbage bills. Prior to imposing sentence, Judge Hardy stated that Pinkney had committed a serious offense that had eroded public trust in the Borough. Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey R. Bengel prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Pinkney.


title: Michigan Medical Provider Convicted of Aggravated Identity Theft

body_text: A federal jury convicted a Michigan businessman today of aggravated identity theft for placing the name and address of another man with the same name in legal documents to avoid a settlement payment of more than $6 million. According to documents and evidence presented at trial, Hassan Kamal Fayad, of Dearborn, operated three medical practices and a transportation business. To fund business operations, Fayad sold outstanding medical and transportation invoices to a Texas-based investment firm. After Fayad failed to make appropriate payments to the Texas firm pursuant to their contracts, the Texas firm sued him in civil court for damages. Throughout the civil proceedings, Fayad caused the name and address of another Michigan resident who shared Fayad’s first and last name, but lived at a different address, to be placed on multiple legal documents, including on a settlement document which obligated Fayad to pay the Texas firm more than $6.3 million. Fayad’s use of the other Michigan resident’s name and address caused the garnishment of all funds from the other Michigan resident’s bank account. A date for sentencing has not been set. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement. The FBI investigated the case. Trial Attorneys Mark McDonald and Christopher P. O’Donnell of the Justice Department’s Tax Division are prosecuting the case.


title: Shiprock Man Charged with Federal Firearms Offense

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, announced that Crandall Craig Martin was arraigned today in federal court on an indictment charging him with being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. Martin, 40, of Shiprock, and an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, will remain in custody pending trial in this case. According to the indictment, on August 10, 2022, Martin possessed a firearm knowing that he had been previously convicted of both felony offenses and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. The government alleges that Martin stole a shotgun from the Navajo Nation Police Department evidence locker intending to exchange it for alcohol. Martin was apprehended without incident by Navajo Nation Police shortly after taking the shotgun. An indictment is only an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Martin faces up to 10 years in prison and up to three years of supervised release thereafter. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary Jones is prosecuting the case. View the Indictment # # # 24-25


title: Helena man sentenced for defrauding Department of Veterans Affairs of healthcare benefits

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: HELENA — A Helena man who admitted to falsely claiming to have served in the U.S. Navy so he could receive healthcare benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs was sentenced today to three years of probation, with 180 days of home confinement, and ordered to pay $46,075 restitution, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Patrick John McKenna, 66, pleaded guilty in August 2023 to healthcare fraud. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that in August 2021, McKenna applied for healthcare benefits with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs’ Veterans Health Administration and indicated on his application that he had served with the U.S. Navy from 1981 to 1984. Based on his representation of military service, McKenna was approved for healthcare benefits and received VA-funded counseling services. McKenna then applied for additional benefits with the VA Veterans Benefits Administration based on claimed service-related disabilities. VBA representatives searched multiple record systems and were unable to find any record of McKenna’s service. In an interview with agents from the VA Office of Inspector General, McKenna admitted that he did not serve in the U.S. Navy and that he had applied for healthcare benefits because of the high cost of private healthcare. Agents determined that McKenna’s scheme resulted in a loss of $39,200 to the VHA and $6,975 to the Helena Veteran Center, for a total loss of $46,075. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shannon L. Clarke and Timothy J. Racicot prosecuted the case. The VA Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Local Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Selling Drugs to Portland High School Students

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A local man was sentenced to federal prison today for selling drugs to Portland high school students. Jonathan Ash Clark, 43, of Portland, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison and six months’ supervised release. According to court documents, on September 28, 2022, officials at Cleveland High School in Portland contacted the Portland Police Bureau (PPB) to request assistance locating a missing student. School officials told police the student was last seen with Clark who they suspected was involved in distributing controlled substances to students. To quickly locate the student who was possibly at risk, the responding PPB officers requested assistance from PPB’s Narcotics and Organized Crime Unit (NOC) and the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Interdiction Task Force (HIT). Later the same day, NOC and HIT investigators located Clark with a group of students and he was arrested without incident. A search of Clark’s person and belongings returned small quantities of cocaine and MDMA and a digital scale. In an interview after his arrest, Clark admitted to knowingly selling drugs to high school students he referred to as “kids.” On September 29, 2022, Clark was charged by criminal complaint with distributing and possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, distributing controlled substances to persons under 21, and using a person under 18 in drug operations. Later, on October 18, 2022, a federal grand jury in Portland indicted Clark on similar charges. On October 10, 2023, Clark pleaded guilty to one count of distributing a controlled substance to a person under 21. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and PPB. It was prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.


title: Phoenix Man Sentenced to 26 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robbery Spree that Ended in Violent High-Speed Pursuit

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: RIVERSIDE, California – An Arizona man was sentenced today to 312 months in federal prison for committing armed robberies of nine stores in Southern California and Arizona during a crime spree in summer 2022 that ended in a high-speed chase in which he fired upon federal agents and, after police rammed his car, shot himself. Samuel Sven Smith, 28, of Phoenix, was sentenced by United States District Judge Jesus G. Bernal, who also ordered him to pay $8,873 in restitution. In May 2023, Smith pleaded guilty to two counts of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act) and two counts of brandishing and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. From July 31, 2022, until his arrest on August 20, 2022, Smith went on an armed robbery spree in Los Angeles, Orange and San Bernardino counties, as well as in Arizona. Specifically, Smith admitted robbing a Big Lots store in Riverside and PetSmart stores in Signal Hill, Orange, San Bernardino, Fontana, Pico Rivera, Redlands, Phoenix and Rancho Cucamonga. In each of these nine robberies, Smith brandished a firearm to control store employees. “Smith showed complete disregard for the safety of others when he went on his crime spree, threatening store employee with firearms and then opening fire on federal agents,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “We cannot accept such blatant violence on our streets and my office is committed to doing all it can to protect the people of our district.” After Smith robbed the Rancho Cucamonga PetSmart store on August 20, 2022, stealing $400 from a store employee, he exited the store and was met by law enforcement, which included federal officers. Smith then opened fire at the officers. Smith then entered his vehicle and sped off, leading law enforcement on a high-speed chase, during which he fired his gun numerous times at pursuing officers. The chase ended when law enforcement rammed into Smith’s vehicle. According to court documents, when law enforcement approached Smith’s car, they determined he had suffered a gunshot wound underneath his chin. Smith told officers who were performing life saving measures, that when they rammed into his vehicle, he accidentally shot himself, according to an affidavit filed with a criminal complaint in this case. “This is the type of vicious career criminal that ATF’s task force in Orange County targets daily,” said the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Los Angeles Field Division Special Agent in Charge Christopher Bombardiere. “We work with our law enforcement partners to put these offenders in prison to stop their terrorizing of our communities. I want to thank all the men and women on the task force who risk their lives daily.” The ATF Orange County Violent Crime Task Force investigated this matter. The task force, which is responsible for investigating serial robberies around Southern California, is composed of investigators with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); the Brea Police Department; the Fullerton Police Department; the Santa Ana Police Department; and the Orange County District Attorney’s Office. The San Bernardino County Sheriff’s Department provided assistance in this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin J. Butler of the Violent and Organized Crime Section prosecuted this case.


title: Member of South Los Angeles Street Gang Sentenced to More Than 15 Years in Prison in Case Involving Fentanyl and Firearm Sales

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A member of the South Los Angeles-based Florencia 13 street gang who admitted to distributing kilograms of methamphetamine and cocaine and to selling of dozens of firearms and 16 machine gun conversion kits, was sentenced today to 188 months in federal prison for distributing thousands of fentanyl pills, which weighed a total of nearly two pounds. Jose Luis Alonso, 28, a.k.a. “AK-47,” of Huntington Park, was sentenced today by United States District Judge David O. Carter. Alonso has been in federal custody since October 2022. Alonso, the lead defendant in this case, pleaded guilty in August 2023 to one count of distribution of fentanyl. In his plea agreement, Alonso admitted to distributing approximately 8,944 fentanyl pills, 855 grams of fentanyl powder, and further admitted to 2.5 kilograms of methamphetamine, and four kilograms of cocaine. He also admitted to selling 36 firearms and 16 machine gun conversion kits from May 2022 to October 2022 without a license and to illegally possessing firearms as a felon. Alonso’s prior felony convictions include a 2016 conviction in Los Angeles Superior Court for robbery, as well as a 2020 conviction in Kern County Superior Court for prison assault with force likely to cause great bodily injury. Alonso’s criminal conduct in this case occurred while he was on probation for his conviction for prison assault. Each of Alonso’s co-defendants has pleaded guilty to conspiring with Alonso to engage in the business of selling firearms without a license. Jasmine Pereira, 26, of Los Angeles, was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison. Kevin Alonso, 27, also of Los Angeles, is due to be sentenced on February 26, and Berenice Segura, 23, of Huntington Park, is scheduled for sentencing on April 8. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Los Angeles Police Department investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Declan T. Conroy of the General Crimes Section prosecuted this case.


title: Lead Defendant in Multimillion-Dollar Boiler Room Scam that Targeted Timeshare Owners Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Prison

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A former Long Beach resident was sentenced today to 121 months in federal prison for leading a telemarketing scheme in which boiler room tactics were used to scam dozens of timeshare owners out of more than $5 million by giving them false promises of financial relief. Michael McDonagh, 43, who currently resides in Cohasset, Massachusetts, was sentenced by United States District Judge David O. Carter, who also ordered him to pay $5,469,271 in restitution. McDonagh pleaded guilty in May 2023 to one count of wire fraud. This criminal case’s lead defendant, McDonagh founded and/or controlled several telemarketing companies – Irvine-based Global Transfer Inc., Costa Mesa-based Global Transfer SoCal Inc., Santa Ana-based Nationwide Transfer Inc., and Signal Hill-based Nationwide Exit Specialist Inc. – that purported to offer timeshare relief. Once one telemarketing company became inundated with consumer complaints, McDonagh would form a new telemarketing company to perpetuate the fraud. From 2015 to May 2019, “openers” who worked for the McDonagh-controlled telemarketing companies contacted timeshare owners and offered to help them terminate their timeshare interest for a fixed fee. If the timeshare owner expressed interest in the telemarketing companies’ services, the call was transferred to a “closer” who convinced victims to sign contracts with the telemarketing companies to get them out of their timeshare for a “one-time fee.” Within weeks of the victim paying the fee, the victims were contacted and told a series of lies to induce them to pay more money. For example, some victims were falsely told that they would obtain – for an additional fee – a large settlement payment based on purported litigation against the victim’s timeshare company. McDonagh and his co-schemers also made false promises of securing – for an additional fee – a large “restitution” payment from the victim’s timeshare company because the timeshare company had purportedly rented out the victim’s timeshare property without the victim’s permission. More than $5 million in actual losses were caused by McDonagh or his co-schemers whom he employed at his telemarketing companies. The other four defendants charged with along with McDonagh also have pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and await sentencing. “[McDonagh] and those who operated in the scheme he orchestrated defrauded over 500 victims, robbing many of them of significant savings – and some of over $100,000,” prosecutors argued in a sentencing memorandum. “During the multi-year scheme, [McDonagh] exhibited callousness to the plight of his victims, including telling his co-schemers to take ‘no prisoners’ and have ‘[n]o remorse.’” The United States Secret Service and the Huntington Beach Police Department investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas F. Rybarczyk of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section and Ian V. Yanniello of the General Crimes Section prosecuted this case.


title: Man Who Plundered Investors’ Money in $8.1 Million Ponzi Scheme Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – January 22, 2024 SAN DIEGO – Richard Lee Ramirez was sentenced in federal court today to seven-and-a-half years in prison for running a Ponzi scheme that resulted in millions of dollars in losses to investors. Between 2018 and 2022, Ramirez and his company, JMJ Capital Group (JMJ), obtained more than $8.1 million from dozens of investors and caused more than $5.4 million in losses through his scheme and misrepresentations. Ramirez was indicted by a federal grand jury in September 2022 and pleaded guilty to securities fraud and money laundering charges in August 2023. In addition to Ramirez’s prison sentence, the court ordered forfeiture of $8,188,928 and restitution to 34 victims totaling $5,440,192.50. The defendant solicited investments by lying to investors. Ramirez made several different misrepresentations, telling various investors, for instance: JMJ purchased and resold personal protective equipment (PPE); factored accounts receivable; sold furniture to major home improvement retailers; and contracted with a cruise line to rebuild and refurbish ships’ air conditioning units. JMJ did no such business. Ramirez promised investors high short-term and medium-term returns on their money—between 10 and 30 percent—but they never received those returns. Ramirez also falsely told investors they could withdraw their money at any time, and sent them fake funding agreements and falsified account statements to carry out the scheme. Rather than using investors’ money as promised, Ramirez used it to pay for his own personal expenses and to make Ponzi-style payments to other investors. He spent hundreds of thousands of dollars on travel, lodging, clothing, jewelry, and entertainment, and he spent over a half million dollars of investor funds on luxury cars including a Rolls Royce and Cadillac Escalade. Ramirez also used the money to take luxury vacations, to charter private jets and yachts, and to make an escrow payment on a property in San Diego County. “Fraud and greed don’t pay unless you are in the market for a lengthy prison sentence. We hope this outcome provides some relief to the 34 victims, many of whom suffered devastating losses,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “The lasting effects of financial crimes on unsuspecting victims can be devasting both personally and economically,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “The FBI and its law enforcement partners will continue to seek justice for individuals and businesses who are victimized by criminals who seek to defraud others for personal gain.” This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Horn and Kevin Mokhtari. DEFENDANT Case Number 22cr2264-BAS Richard Lee Ramirez Age: 54 Encinitas, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Securities Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 78j(b), 78ff, and Title 17, C.F.R., Section 240.10b-5 Money Laundering – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1957 Criminal Forfeiture – Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 981(a)(1)(C), 982(a)(1), 982(b), and Title 28, U.S.C., Section 2461(c) Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison and $5 million fine AGENCIES Federal Bureau of Investigation Securities and Exchange Commission


title: Six-Time Convicted Felon Charged With Possessing A Firearm

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Lawrence Lamar Singleton II (34, Orlando) with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Singleton faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Singleton that the United States intends to forfeit a Sig Sauer firearm, a Smith & Wesson firearm, Blazer ammunition and Lake City Army ammunition, which are alleged to be involved in the offense. According to the indictment, on May 14, 2023, Singleton possessed two firearms and ammunition. At the time of the alleged offense, Singleton had prior felony convictions for burglary of a dwelling, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, fleeing or attempting to elude a law enforcement officer and driving while license suspended (two prior convictions). As such, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Orlando Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff. 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.


title: Kissimmee Man Sentenced For Smuggling Cocaine From The Dominican Republic To Florida

body_text: Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Roman Batista (38, Kissimmee) to five years in federal prison for importing cocaine into the United States. Batista had pleaded guilty on September 25, 2023. According to court documents, on July 10, 2023, Batista flew from the Dominican Republic to the Orlando International Airport. After securing his checked luggage from the baggage claim area, Batista was referred for a bag examination. Customs and Border Protection Officers conducted an examination of Batista’s luggage wherein 2,994 grams of cocaine was located hidden in a speaker. “CBP is focused on attacking every link in the global illegal narcotic trafficking chain. The diligent work by our CBP Officers prevented these illicit drugs from ever finding their way on to the street of Orlando or beyond,” stated Miami/Tampa Director of Field Operations Carlos Martel. “One of CBP’s main mission is to relentlessly prevent the flow of illicit narcotics into our nation and our job is performed 24/7.” “This sentencing is a testament to Homeland Security Investigations’ commitment to stop those who exploit our nations travel system to further their illicit narcotic distribution networks,” said HSI Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “The outstanding law enforcement partnership we have with U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Orlando International Airport has ensured this criminal will now face the consequences of his actions.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff.


title: Orlando Man Sentenced To More Than 8 Years In Federal Prison On Fentanyl And Firearm Charges

body_text: Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Gregory A. Presnell has sentenced Jason Santos (27, Orlando) to eight years and four months in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The court also ordered Santos to forfeit 11 firearms and various ammunition, which are traceable to the offense. Santos had pleaded guilty on September 22, 2023. According to court documents, on February 15 and March 14, 2023, Santos sold cocaine to an undercover deputy from the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. Law enforcement subsequently obtained a search warrant for a residence out of which Santos was operating and recovered 11 firearms, various ammunition, a tactical bag, and drug paraphernalia, including scales and empty clear bags. Officers also recovered various controlled substances, including, fentanyl, cocaine, LSD, MDA, methamphetamine, cannabis, alprazolam, and mushrooms. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff. 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.


title: Orlando Felon Pleads Guilty To Illegally Possessing A Firearm

body_text: Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Antavious Anton Gray, Jr. (23, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Gray faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to court records, on October 19, 2022, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Gray was a passenger. The driver gave law enforcement consent to search the vehicle, wherein they located a semi-automatic Smith & Wesson firearm with an extended magazine in a satchel on the floorboard where Gray had been sitting. A lab analysis revealed Gray’s DNA was on the firearm. At the time, Gray had a prior felony conviction for possession of a firearm by a person found to have committed a delinquent act. As a convicted felon, Gray is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie A. McNeff. 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.


title: Federal Jury Convicts Arcadia Man Of Conspiracy To Commit Numerous Armed Robberies, Home Invasions, Shootings, While Dressed As Police Officer

body_text: Tampa, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Darius Hudson (44, Arcadia) guilty of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, three separate Hobbs Act robberies, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence. Because of the specific robberies that they each participated in, the defendants also face mandatory minimum sentences of imprisonment. Hudson faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 27 years, and up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to the evidence introduced during the trial, between December 2020 and April 2021, a group of individuals conspired with each other to commit armed robberies throughout Pasco, Polk, Lee, and Hillsborough Counties, as well as Georgia and Arizona. While committing these offenses, the conspirators, including Hudson, impersonated law enforcement officers by wearing black clothing, gloves, and masks, often with law enforcement insignia, or vests with “Sheriff” affixed. They drove a black Dodge Durango equipped with lights, and often handcuffed their victims. During these robberies, victims and their family members were awoken in the middle of the night at home, beat, pistol whipped, threatened, and, on several occasions, shot. This case was investigated by the FBI, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Bartow Police Department, the Lakeland Police Department, the Dade City Police Department, the Cape Coral Police Department, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, the Arcadia Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes. 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.


title: Former MercyOne Nurse Sentenced for Conspiracy to Acquire Controlled Substances and Possession of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: Douglas Kelley, 67, from Sioux City, Iowa, and former MercyOne nurse was sentenced on January 18, 2024, to over 10 years in prison for Possession of Child Pornography and Conspiracy to Acquire Controlled Substances by Fraud. Kenneth Hurd, 32, from Harrisburg, South Dakota, was sentenced on January 3, 2024, to two years’ probation for Conspiracy to Acquire Controlled Substances by Fraud. Brian Gene Raff, 44, from Orchard, Nebraska pled guilty in federal court on November 29, 2023, to Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Raff remains free on bond pending sentencing. Evidence at Hurd’s and Kelley’s sentencing hearing’s established that Kelley knowingly conspired with co-defendants to obtain and acquire fentanyl by means of misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge. The trio used Kelley’s position as a nurse at MercyOne Hospital in Sioux City, Iowa, to obtain fentanyl and other controlled substances for personal use and to illegally distribute to others. Raff further admitted that he conspired with his co-defendants to distribute his minor child’s prescription ADHD medication, Vyvanse (amphetamine), a Schedule II Controlled Substance. During the investigation, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Kelley’s cell phone and recovered six videos and 20 images of child pornography. These videos and images included material that depicted prepubescent minors or minors who had not attained 12 years of age. The materials also portrayed sadistic and masochistic conduct, as well as toddlers and bestiality. Kelley had previously been convicted of offenses relating to the possession of child pornography in Buena Vista County, Iowa in 1993. “By using his position as a nurse, Kelley violated the public’s trust while stealing controlled substances for himself and others. He also possessed child pornography, allowing for the heartbreaking victimization of children and their sexual exploitation. The sentencing of Kelley in this matter sends a strong and powerful message that those who violate the law will be held accountable,” said Curt L. Muller, Acting Special Agent in Charge for the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. “We will continue working with our State, Federal, and Tribal law enforcement partners as we investigate and seek justice against those who would victimize our programs and their beneficiaries.” Kelley was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand to 126 months’ imprisonment. He must pay $1,200 in fines and assessments and serve a 5-year term of supervised release upon release from custody. There is no parole in the federal system. Hurd was sentenced in Sioux City by United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand to two years’ probation. He was also ordered to obtain mental health and substance abuse evaluations and comply with any recommended treatment. 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.” The case was investigated by the Iowa Division of Inspections & Appeals, United States Department of Health and Human Services, Sioux City Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kraig R. Hamit. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 23-CR-4022. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Mexican National Sentenced to 30 Years for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Elias Hernandez-Valencia, 48, Mexican national residing in Madera, was sentenced Monday, Jan. 22, 2024, to 30 years in prison for conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, between May 22, 2018, and August 8, 2018, Hernandez-Valencia and others were part of a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. As part of this conspiracy, Hernandez-Valencia directed deliveries of methamphetamine to others within the drug trafficking organization (DTO) and remitting the proceeds from the drug sales to the head of the DTO, a person known as “Tio” (or “Uncle”). Hernandez-Valencia also supervised a methamphetamine conversion laboratory in his home, converting liquid methamphetamine to crystal methamphetamine, generating product for the DTO to sell. Agents executed a search warrant at Hernandez-Valencia’s residence on August 8, 2018, and seized approximately 1 kilogram of cocaine, 1 kilogram of heroin, and over 8 kilograms of methamphetamine (including roughly half a gallon of liquid methamphetamine). In Hernandez-Valencia’s bedroom closet, where agents found the heroin, they also found seven assault rifles and a handgun. This is Hernandez-Valencia’s second federal felony drug trafficking conviction in the Eastern District of California; he was previously convicted and sentenced for conspiracy to distribute heroin in 2006. Hernandez-Valencia is one of several defendants to plead guilty and be sentenced in this case, including Jose Pantoja-Estrada, Luis Rios-Garcia, Georgina Carrillo-Ayala, Roberto Mercado‑Rangel, Kelley Hughes, Bart Hughes, and Jerry Foster. Filiberto Madrigal has pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Madera County Narcotics Enforcement Team (MADNET), and the Fresno High Impact Investigation Team (HIIT). Assistant U.S. Attorney James R. Conolly is prosecuting the case. The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Nine Individuals Sentenced for Passing Counterfeit Bonds and Related Offenses in Alabama’s Wiregrass Area

component: USAO - Alabama, Middle

body_text: Montgomery, Alabama – Today, Acting United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross announced the sentences of eight individuals convicted of creating and passing dozens of counterfeit bonds. The counterfeit bonds purported to have a total value exceeding $1,000,000. He also announced the related sentencing of one defendant convicted of illegally possessing a firearm. Details of the cases are as follows. According to court records, in 2021, 38-year-old Zachary Lee Hale, a resident of Daleville, Alabama, began making fake United States Treasury Bond Certificates and redeeming them at credit unions and banks in the Wiregrass area. Once he figured out that his scheme was successful, Hale recruited at least six others to join him and pass additional counterfeit bonds. Court documents indicate that Hale and his co-conspirators were responsible for at least $1,093,911.00 in loss to various financial institutions. Hale pleaded guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and bank fraud in October of 2023. On January 17, 2024, a federal judge sentenced Hale to 92 months of imprisonment, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Also sentenced on January 17, 2024, were five others who redeemed Hale’s fake bonds or recruited others to do so: Stephanie Jean Abercrombie, 42, from Daleville, Alabama, was sentenced to 42 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and bank fraud. David Michael Penuel, 45, a resident of Kinston, Alabama, received a sentence of 18 months, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to bank fraud. Joni Marie Andrews, 43, also from Kinston, was sentenced to 12 months in prison, followed by two years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States. Marsha Renee Skeen, 52, another resident of Daleville, received a sentence of one year of probation following a guilty plea to misprision of a felony. Timothy Bryant Baxter, 45, a Troy, Alabama resident, was sentenced to six months of home confinement as a condition of two years of supervised release after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and bank fraud. Previously, on November 8, 2023, Joseph Fletcher Lee, Jr., 48, originally from Marianna, Florida, received a sentence of 36 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the United States and bank fraud. Lee was also involved in Hale’s scheme. After all defendants were sentenced in Hale’s scheme, the judge ordered each one to pay restitution for the amount of loss they caused. Two additional unrelated prosecutions resulted from this investigation. On November 13, 2023, a judge sentenced 38-year-old John Robert Whyte, a resident of Munford, Alabama, to 18 months in prison for manufacturing counterfeit obligations and for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Dustin Andrew Riley, 32, from Skipperville, Alabama, received a sentence of 21 months in prison on August 17, 2023, for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. “Manufacturing and redeeming counterfeit bonds is not a victimless crime,” stated Acting United States Attorney Ross. “Financial institutions and the American taxpayer pay the price of these selfish schemes. I am thankful to every agency involved in these investigations.” “The U.S. Secret Service has a long tradition of investigating those who aim to exploit our financial systems and target innocent victims,” stated Resident Agent in Charge Robert T. Haralson with the United States Secret Service’s Montgomery Resident Office. “We are thankful for the hard work and dedication of our state, local, and federal law enforcement partners, as we worked together to bring these offenders to justice. With support from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we will continue to investigate, arrest, and support prosecution of criminals who choose to commit fraud in Alabama and across the nation.” The United States Secret Service investigated these cases, along with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Dale County Sheriff’s Office, the Enterprise Police Department, the Daleville Police Department, and the Coffee County Sheriff’s Office. United States Attorney Megan A. Kirkpatrick prosecuted the cases.


title: Tulsa Resident Sentenced For Aggravated Sexual Abuse In Indian Country

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that David Allen Martin, age 45, of Tulsa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 360 months in prison for one count of Aggravated Sexual Abuse. Martin is also subject to a life term of supervised release and will be required to register as a sex offender. The charges arose from investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Tribal Police. On March 2, 2023, Martin pleaded guilty to Aggravated Sexual Abuse in Indian Country. According to court documents, Martin sexually abused a seven year old child. The crime occurred in Okmulgee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearings. Martin will remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Wilson commended the work of the investigative team that brought the case, and of the attorneys who brought the prosecution, including Assistant U.S. Attorney Morgan Muzljakovich, together with the Assistant U.S. Attorneys who form the Special Victims Unit for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.


title: Okmulgee Resident Sentenced For Eluding Peace Officer

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Clinton Randall Primeaux, age 29, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 20 months in prison for endangering others while eluding a police officer. The charges arose from investigations by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Henryetta Police Department. On January 19, 2024, Primeaux pleaded guilty to eluding a peace officer in a manner as to endanger any other person in Indian country. According to investigators, on October 20, 2021, Primeaux led officers on a high-speed chase through Henryetta and onto Interstate 40. Primeaux’s vehicle eventually came to a stop in Clearview, Oklahoma. The crime occurred in Okmulgee and Okfuskee Counties, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The Honorable Charles B. Goodwin, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Oklahoma, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearings in Oklahoma City.


title: Tahlequah Resident Sentenced For Federal Firearm Crime

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Michael Shane Lowrey, age 51, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to time served and two years of supervised release for possessing a firearm after a felony conviction. The charges arose from investigations by the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. On March 9, 2022, Lowrey pleaded guilty to the offense. On January 1, 2021, the Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office dispatched deputies to investigate a shooting at a local residence. Deputies answering the call discovered Lowrey with a self-inflicted accidental gunshot wound. Upon questioning, Lowrey admitted to knowingly possessing the firearm despite his felony conviction. The Honorable Charles B. Goodwin, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Oklahoma, sitting by assignment, presided over the hearing in Oklahoma City. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Satter represented the United States.


title: Jury Convicts Dulce Man of Aggravated Sexual Abuse

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge for the FBI Albuquerque Office, announced today that on Jan. 19, 2024, a federal jury returned a guilty verdict against Joel Ruiz, 65, of Dulce, after a day and a half of deliberation. The jury convicted Ruiz of aggravated sexual abuse. Judge David H. Urias presided. A federal grand jury issued an indictment against Ruiz on March 8, 2022. According to evidence presented at trial and other publicly available court records, between January 2016 and January 2020, Ruiz used candy to lure a child under the age of 12 into his trailer where he sexually assaulted her. The incident occurred on the Jicarilla Apache Reservation, but neither Ruiz, nor the victim, are registered members of the tribe. During her testimony, Jane Doe 1 testified that Ruiz abused her when she was six or seven years old. The jury also heard from Jane Doe 2, who testified that Ruiz abused her once when she was three or four years old. Jane Does 1 and 2 both stated that Ruiz lured them into his trailer by offering them candy and described the same form of abuse. Ruiz will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Ruiz faces a mandatory minimum of 30 years up to life in prison. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Caitlin L. Dillon and Matthew J. McGinley are prosecuting the case. # # # 24-24