title: Santa Maria Man Charged in Federal Complaint Alleging He Injured Five People in Bomb Attack in Lobby of County Courthouse

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A Santa Barbara County man was charged today in a federal criminal complaint alleging he committed a bomb attack at a courthouse in Santa Maria on Wednesday, in which at least five people were injured. Nathaniel James McGuire, 20, of Santa Maria, is charged with maliciously damaging a building by means of explosive. McGuire, who was arrested Wednesday shortly after the attack, is expected to make his initial appearance Friday afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, on September 25, McGuire entered a courthouse of Santa Barbara County Superior Court and threw a bag into the lobby. The bag exploded and McGuire left the courthouse on foot. The explosion injured at least five people who were present at the courthouse at that time. Shortly thereafter, McGuire was apprehended and detained by Santa Barbara County sheriff’s deputies as he was trying to access a red Ford Mustang car parked outside the building. McGuire allegedly yelled that the government had taken his guns and that everyone needed to fight, rise up, and rebel. Inside the car, a deputy saw ammunition, a flare gun, and a box of fireworks. A search of the car revealed a shotgun, a rifle, more ammunition, a suspected bomb, and 10 Molotov cocktails. Law enforcement later rendered the bomb safe. A search of McGuire’s residence revealed an empty can with nails glued to the outside, a duffel bag containing matches, black powder, used and unused fireworks, and papers that appeared to be recipes for explosive material. “This defendant’s alleged misconduct was chilling,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Not only did he injure five people and traumatize many more, but he possessed a cache of weapons that would have allowed him to wreak even greater destruction had he not been stopped. Attacks on our courts, law enforcement officers, and other public servants are unacceptable, and it is critical that those who carry out such assaults be prosecuted to the fullest extent.” “The idea of intentionally setting off an explosive device to do harm and avoid justice in the process shocks the conscience,” said Akil Davis, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Los Angeles Field Office. “Make no mistake, we are committed to holding Mr. McGuire accountable for this blatant act of violence. As always, we encourage the public to remain vigilant and to promptly report suspicious activities which could represent a threat to public safety.” “This was a shocking and unprecedented crime in our county, but, in spite of its audacity, the security of the Santa Maria courthouse was maintained,” said Santa Barbara County Sheriff Bill Brown. “The suspect was swiftly apprehended by a court security officer, a sheriff’s deputy, two California Highway Patrol officers, and a district attorney’s investigator; we are proud of their resolute actions that almost certainly prevented further violence. We are also grateful for the substantial investigative assistance that has been provided by our colleagues with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and from U.S. Attorney Martin Estrada and his office.” A complaint contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court. If convicted, McGuire would face a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in federal prison and a statutory maximum sentence of 40 years in federal prison. The FBI and the Santa Barbara County Sheriff’s Office are investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Mark Takla and Kathrynne N. Seiden of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section are prosecuting this case with substantial assistance from Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the Counterterrorism Section in the Department of Justice’s National Security Division.


title: Pennsylvania Woman Convicted of Heroin and Fentanyl Charge

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Jalisa Lashae Hawkins, 35, of Duquesne, Pennsylvania, was convicted today by a jury of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced. Investigators were conducting surveillance on a Clarksburg residence after receiving complaints of drug activity. Officers saw Hawkins drive to the residence, interact with someone, and leave. Officers continued surveillance on Hawkins and pulled her vehicle over for multiple traffic violations. During the stop, officers seized fentanyl stamps and heroin. Hawkins faces up to 20 years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brandon Flower and William Rhee prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Greater Harrison Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Mountaineer Highway Interdiction Team South investigated. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.


title: Hospital, Laboratory, Referring Physician, and Lab Employees Pay More than $7.2 Million To Resolve Civil Allegations of Fraudulent Laboratory Testing

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. — A hospital, a laboratory, three lab employees, and a referring physician and his office manager have agreed to collectively pay the United States more than $7.2 million dollars to resolve civil allegations that they defrauded federal healthcare programs in connection with laboratory tests that were not medically necessary or were tainted by violations of the federal Anti-Kickback Statute. Physicians’ Medical Center, LLC (“PMC”), a hospital in New Albany, Indiana, operated a clinical laboratory that was managed by the now defunct United States Medical Scientific Indiana, LLC (“US Med Sci Indiana”). The United States alleged that PMC, through its lab manager’s fraudulent conduct, violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims for laboratory services to Medicare, Kentucky Medicaid, and TRICARE, from December 2016 to September 2018. Federal healthcare programs only pay for laboratory services that are used for medical diagnosis or treatment. As set forth in the settlement documents, the United States alleged that PMC billed Medicare, Kentucky Medicaid, and TRICARE for urine drug tests referred by various entities – including a homeless shelter and peer-to-peer recovery centers – that did not use the test results for medical diagnosis or treatment. These nonmedical entities only used the test results to monitor clients’ compliance with the conditions of their programs and with court orders. In total, the United States alleged that PMC submitted nearly $3 million in false claims to Medicare, Kentucky Medicaid, and TRICARE, for urine drug tests referred by these nonmedical entities. Two lab employees also entered settlement agreements to resolve their False Claims Act liability, for causing PMC’s submission of false claims for lab tests from these nonmedical entities. The United States alleged that Bobby Sturgeon, a sales representative for PMC’s laboratory, knew that these entities did not provide medical services, but nonetheless pursued and worked with them as clients. And Sturgeon financially benefited from these fraudulent sales practices because his salary was based in part on the amount insurers paid PMC for his clients’ tests, including those from the nonmedical entities. Similarly, the United States alleged that Derrick Arthur, one of the peer-to-peer recovery center’s directors, worked as a specimen collector for PMC’s lab and helped arrange for a volunteer doctor to order urine drug testing, despite knowing that the doctor did not provide medical treatment to the center’s clients. By doing so, Arthur facilitated the improper billing of laboratory tests to federal healthcare programs. After PMC closed its laboratory in October 2018, Sturgeon became a sales representative for Bluewater Toxicology, a laboratory in Mount Washington, Kentucky. As set forth in the settlement documents, Sturgeon then caused Bluewater to submit false claims for medically unnecessary urine drug tests, from the same peer-to-peer recovery centers and homeless shelter, through July 2019. Like PMC, Bluewater knew that federal healthcare programs would not pay for urine drug tests used for nonmedical purposes, but still submitted the claims for payment. In total, the United States alleged that Bluewater submitted nearly $450,000 in false claims to Medicare and Kentucky Medicaid for urine drug tests referred by the nonmedical entities. Bluewater, Sturgeon, and Arthur have entered settlement agreements resolving their liability for the submission of Bluewater’s false claims for tests from these nonmedical entities. In a related scheme, Steve Moore, a laboratory sales representative for PMC and Bluewater Toxicology, allegedly paid a physician, Pablo Merced, M.D., and his wife and office manager, Theresa Merced, to induce referrals of laboratory tests to PMC and Bluewater Toxicology. To gain Dr. Merced’s large volume of referrals, Moore paid cash to the Merceds and paid additional salary to lab specimen collectors who worked at their office. PMC, through its lab manager, also employed specimen collectors in Dr. Merced’s medical practice, who were alleged to perform office work unrelated to their specimen collection duties. Moore’s cash payments and the PMC lab manager’s in-kind payments to the Merceds violated the Anti-Kickback Statute, 42 U.S.C. § 1320a-7b(b). PMC and Bluewater submitted millions of dollars of claims to federal healthcare programs for the lab tests that were tainted by their sales representative’s kickbacks. PMC, Moore, and the Merceds have entered settlement agreements resolving their liability for the submission of the false claims tainted by kickbacks. PMC’s settlement agreement also resolved its False Claims Act liability for claims for lab tests referred by medical providers at Prescribe Recovery, a medical practice in Paris, Kentucky. The United States alleged that PMC’s lab manager, US Med Sci Indiana, actually owned Prescribe Recovery, and directed its medical providers’ referral of laboratory tests to PMC’s lab. As PMC’s lab manager, US Med Sci Indiana received 78% of the laboratory claim reimbursements paid to PMC, including the reimbursements from Prescribe Recovery. PMC’s payment of 78% of laboratory reimbursements to US Med Sci Indiana induced them (as the lab manager) to direct Prescribe Recovery’s lab referrals to PMC, and violated the Anti-Kickback Statute. Collectively, these civil healthcare fraud settlements return more than $7.2 million to the Medicare, Kentucky Medicaid, and TRICARE programs. For their roles in the scheme as the laboratories submitting the false claims, PMC agreed to pay $5,219,000 and Bluewater Toxicology agreed to pay $895,952. Sturgeon and Moore, agreed to pay $713,466 and $40,000, respectively, to resolve their liability. Arthur agreed to pay $5,500 to resolve his liability; and Dr. and Mrs. Merced collectively agreed to pay $450,000 to resolve their liability, under the False Claims Act and Dr. Merced’s liability for separate conduct under the Controlled Substances Act. The value of Moore’s, Arthur’s, and the Merceds’ settlements included factoring in their inability to pay, based on financial disclosures. “Through a complex patchwork of schemes, the federal government was defrauded out of millions of dollars,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “This money was appropriated to provide medical services to eligible Americans; instead, it improperly yielded proceeds to those who were submitting false claims. When fraud and abuse deplete these valuable resources, it injures all of us. With the assistance of our partners and the filing of a qui tam complaint, vital resources are now being returned to their intended purpose.” “Individuals and entities participating in the federal health care system must comply with laws designed to protect program funds and ensure patients receive appropriate, quality care,” said Special Agent in Charge Kelly J. Blackmon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to hold health care providers accountable for improper payments from federal health care programs.” The settlements resolve a lawsuit brought by a private citizen under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party can file a civil action on behalf of the United States, thereby bringing allegations of fraud to the Government’s attention, and share in any financial recovery. As part of this resolution, the individuals who filed the qui tam complaint will receive a portion of the settlement proceeds. The civil case is captioned United States ex rel. Clark et al. v. United States Medical Scientific, LLC, et al. , Case No. 0:18-cv-109-KKC. The settlement agreements resulted from the joint efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky; U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General; U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; U.S. Department of Defense, Office of the Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service; and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control . The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Stubblebine. The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. -END-


title: Physician and Office Manager Pay $450,000 to Resolve Alleged Violations of the Controlled Substance Act and the False Claims Act

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. — The physician and office manager of a medical practice in Jackson, Kentucky, have agreed to pay $450,000 to resolve civil allegations that the physician unlawfully prescribed controlled substances, and that they both defrauded federal healthcare programs by soliciting kickbacks for laboratory referrals. Pablo Merced, M.D. owned and operated St. John Neumann’s Extended Hours Clinic, a medical practice in Jackson, Kentucky. His wife, Theresa Merced, worked as St. John Neumann’s office manager. In his practice, Dr. Merced referred laboratory testing to several laboratories, including Physicians’ Medical Center, BIOTAP Medical, and Bluewater Toxicology. Dr. Merced also prescribed controlled substances to his patients at his medical practice. As set forth in the settlement agreement, the United States alleged that Dr. and Mrs. Merced solicited kickbacks from a lab sales representative, in exchange for Dr. Merced’s referrals of laboratory tests to Physicians’ Medical Center, BIOTAP Medical, and Bluewater Toxicology, from April 2016 to November 2021. The sales representative paid cash directly to the Merceds and to multiple laboratory specimen collectors who worked at St. John Neumann’s. The specimen collectors, who were supposed to only work for the labs, also performed office work at St. John Neumann’s. The Anti-Kickback Statute prohibits giving cash and in-kind payments, such as free office work, to induce medical providers’ referrals for services paid by federal healthcare programs. Medicare, Kentucky Medicaid, and TRICARE programs paid more than $9 million for laboratory tests referred by Dr. Merced. Submission of these tainted claims violated the False Claims Act, a federal law that prohibits knowingly submitting a false claim for reimbursement to federal programs. The United States also alleged that Dr. Merced violated the Controlled Substances Act, by writing invalid prescriptions. The Controlled Substances Act, which was passed to combat the illegal distribution and abuse of controlled substances, requires a prescription for Schedule II controlled substances to be issued for a legitimate medical purpose, by a licensed practitioner acting in the usual course of his professional practice. Dr. Merced pre-signed 94 blank prescriptions and permitted unauthorized individuals to complete and issue those prescriptions for controlled substances to patients in his absence, which is outside the usual course of professional practice. Dr. and Mrs. Merced agreed to pay the United States $450,000, as part of an ability-to-pay settlement, to resolve the allegations of False Claims Act and Controlled Substances Act violations. Dr. Merced further agreed to a 15-year voluntary exclusion from federal healthcare programs and to refrain from reapplying for a registration with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, which he surrendered during the investigation. “This case involved two important principles: averting the submission of false claims to federal programs and preventing the irresponsible distribution of addictive controlled substances,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “Eastern Kentucky has been hard hit by the drug epidemic. And with the assistance of our partners, this case highlights our commitment to reducing that suffering, and holding professionals accountable for improperly depleting critical government resources and recklessly dispensing addictive drugs.” "HHS-OIG is dedicated to investigating medical providers who undermine federal health care programs and jeopardize patient welfare by submitting false or fraudulent claims,” said Special Agent in Charge Kelly J. Blackmon with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Health care professionals have a responsibility to bill accurately for services and prescribe controlled substances responsibly." “Dr. Merced’s reckless behavior in this case demonstrated a clear violation of the Controlled Substances Act,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Erek Davodowich, head of DEA’s Louisville Division. “Doctors who operate outside of accepted medical guidelines can pose a threat to the health of their patients and should expect to meet the full weight of the justice system.” This settlement is part of a larger case brought under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act, which returned more than $7.3 million to federal programs. The civil case is captioned United States ex rel. Clark et al. v. United States Medical Scientific, LLC, et al. , Case No. 0:18-cv-109-KKC, which the court recently unsealed for public access on September 23, 2024. The Government’s work in this investigation illustrates its commitment to combatting health care fraud, waste, and abuse, as well as its continued emphasis on combating the prescription opioid crisis. Tips from all sources about potential fraud, waste, and abuse can be reported to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). Anyone with concerns about prescription drug diversion can report them to the DEA by submitting a tip at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip. The settlement agreement resulted from the joint efforts of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Kentucky, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Stubblebine. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. -END-


title: Justice Department Announces an Organizational Assessment of the Hackensack, New Jersey, Police Department under the COPS Office’s Collaborative Reform Initiative

component: Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS)

body_text: The Justice Department’s Office of Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS Office) today announced that it will provide an Organizational Assessment of the Hackensack, New Jersey, Police Department through its Collaborative Reform Initiative. This is a voluntary program that is offered at the request of law enforcement agencies that are seeking to ensure fair, impartial, and effective policing for the communities they serve. Over the next year, the Hackensack Police Department will work in partnership with the COPS Office Collaborative Reform Initiative team to focus on: Data-Driven Policing; Employee Wellness, Training, and Professional Development; Community Engagement and Problem-Solving Strategies; Internal and External Communications; Leadership and Organizational Structure; and Accountability and Oversight Systems. “The in-depth assessments undertaken as part of the Collaborative Reform Initiative benefit both the Hackensack Police Department and the community,” said Principal Deputy Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “By taking an honest look at what might need to be strengthened or reformed, agencies can continue to improve public safety and trust.” “ By examining an agency’s historical practices, their current practices, and their goals for the future, a solid plan for moving forward can be put in place,” said Director Hugh T. Clements Jr. of the COPS Office. “It is this kind of strategic thinking and planning that is critical in helping agencies meet the standards that the community has set for them.” Regular updates on the Collaborative Reform Initiative team’s work with the Hackensack Police Department will be provided at www.cops.usdoj.gov/active-oa-site-hackensack-nj-police-department as part of the transparency and public accountability of this new Organizational Assessment effort. The Collaborative Reform Initiative encompasses three programs offering expert services to state, local, territorial, and Tribal law enforcement agencies: the Collaborative Reform Initiative Technical Assistance Center, Critical Response, and Organizational Assessment programs (complete details of these programs can be found at www.cops.usdoj.gov/collaborativereform ). Managed out of the COPS Office, this continuum of services is designed to build trust between law enforcement agencies and the communities they serve; improve operational efficiencies and effectiveness; enhance officer safety and wellness; build agencies’ capacity for organizational learning and self-improvement; and promote community policing practices nationwide. The Organizational Assessment program provides the most intensive form of technical assistance on the continuum, involving in-depth assessments and long-term assistance to improve the fairness, effectiveness, and efficacy of agency operations that build trust with communities. A continual assessment and implementation process ensures that time and resources are used to focus on identifying areas for improvement, reinforcing agency strengths, and assisting with the implementation of improvements expeditiously. At the same time, the process provides transparency and accountability with routine public reporting and community input. Each engagement will be supported by a multidisciplinary assessment team composed of subject matter experts with diverse experience and perspectives, including in law enforcement, community engagement, research and evaluation, program management, and organizational reform. The COPS Office is the federal component of the Justice Department responsible for advancing community policing nationwide. The only Justice Department agency with policing in its name, the COPS Office was established in 1994 and has been the cornerstone of the nation’s crime fighting strategy with grants, a variety of knowledge resource products, and training and technical assistance. Through the years, the COPS Office has become the go-to organization for law enforcement agencies across the country and continues to listen to the field and provide the resources that are needed to reduce crime and build trust between law enforcement and the communities served. The COPS Office has been appropriated more than $20 billion to advance community policing, including grants awarded to more than 13,000 state, local, territorial, and Tribal law enforcement agencies to fund the hiring and redeployment of approximately 138,000 officers.


title: Shipping Companies Sentenced to $2M Criminal Penalty for Concealing Oil Discharge

component: Energy and Natural Resources Division

body_text: Two corporations that operated the motor tanker P/S Dream — Prive Overseas Marine LLC and Prive Shipping Denizcilik Ticaret — were sentenced yesterday in federal court in New Orleans to pay a $2 million criminal penalty and complete four years of probation. The companies pleaded guilty in May to charges of conspiracy, obstruction of justice and violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS). The court sentenced the P/S Dream’ s Captain, Abdurrahman Korkmaz, on Sept. 10 to eight months in prison for an APPS offense and obstructing the U.S. Coast Guard’s investigation. The charges pertain to the investigation of the P/S Dream vessel when it was heading to New Orleans in January 2023. Senior corporate managers were aware that Korkmaz had arranged to discharge oil-contaminated waste from a residual tank on deck into the ocean. The captain ordered the crew to pump the waste overboard and clean the tank with soap. The seamen rigged a portable pump to empty the contents overboard over three days. The defendants falsified the vessel’s oil record book by omitting the discharge. One of the crew members alerted the Coast Guard and shared videos of the discharge and resulting oil sheen. When the ship arrived in Louisiana, another crew member came forward and gave the Coast Guard a recording of an officer discussing the discharge. The falsified logs, presented to the Coast Guard during its inspection, were intended to conceal the fact that the crew had dumped oil-contaminated waste overboard in violation of MARPOL Annex I, an international treaty regulating oil pollution from ships. Corporate representatives at Prive Shipping were aware that the oil-contaminated waste remained in the tank and were informed by the ship’s master that it had been dumped overboard. The $2 million criminal penalty includes $500,000 in organizational community service payments that will fund various maritime environmental projects in the Eastern District of Louisiana. Those projects will be managed by the congressionally established National Fish & Wildlife Foundation. Captain Korkmaz is a Turkish national. Prive Overseas Marine is based in Dubai and Prive Shipping is headquartered in Turkey. As a condition of probation, the corporations must also adhere to an environmental compliance plan mandating audit, safety and inspection requirements over the next four years. Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division and U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana made the announcement. The Coast Guard Investigative Service and EPA Criminal Investigations Division investigated the case with assistance from Coast Guard Sector New Orleans. Senior Litigation Counsel Richard A. Udell and Senior Trial Attorney Ryan Connors of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys G. Dall Kammer and Christine M. Calogero for the Eastern District of Louisiana prosecuted the case. Prive JFS Filed.pdf Exhibits Prive.pdf


title: Four Charged in Multi-State High-End Automobile Theft Ring

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE, RI – As reflected in court documents unsealed today in U.S. District Court in Providence, R.I., four Rhode Island men have been charged for their alleged participation in a conspiracy that burglarized and stole millions of dollars’ worth of high-end vehicles from automobile and motorcycle dealerships across Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Connecticut, and Pennsylvania, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. An indictment unsealed today charges Belter Giron, 28, of North Providence, Alberto Rivera, 24, of Cranston, as well as Richard Robinson, 32, and Onix Eduardo, 27, both of Providence, with conspiracy to commit interstate transportation of stolen property and interstate transportation of stolen property. Additional court records unsealed today reflect that the four defendants previously appeared in federal court charged by way of criminal complaint. Alberto Rivera and Belter Giron made initial appearances in federal court on July 30, and July 31, 2024, respectively; Richard Robinson appeared on August 19, 2024; and Onix Eduardo, 27, appeared before a U.S. Magistrate on September 3, 2024. Giron and Eduardo are detained in federal custody; Rivera was returned to custody at the Rhode Island Adult Correctional Institutions, where he had been held previously; Robinson has been released on bond. It is alleged in court documents that, between February 2023 and July 2023, members of the conspiracy burglarized a dozen dealerships and stole approximately 120 vehicles, collectively valued at approximately $5 million dollars. The majority of thefts targeted high-end, luxury vehicle brands such as Porsche, Mercedes, BMW, Rolls Royce, Bentley, Land Rover and the like. Members of the conspiracy are also alleged to have targeted a motorcycle dealership in Pennsylvania, from which they stole nineteen premium Husqvarna motorcycles. It is further alleged that eleven dirt bikes stolen from a dealership in Phillipston, MA, were brought into Rhode Island and stored at Giron’s North Providence residence. As referenced in charging documents, an analysis of communications between members of the conspiracy allegedly revealed numerous conversations related to vehicle thefts, the use of some of the vehicles by Giron and others, and efforts to sell the stolen vehicles. It is alleged that Giron brokered the sale of stolen vehicles to associates within and outside of Rhode Island, as well as to a larger network of individuals. Surveillance video obtained by Providence Police allegedly depicts individuals matching the description of Giron and Robinson in the driveway of a Providence residence on March 13, 2023, placing a cover over a Jeep Grand Cherokee Trackhawk. The vehicle, valued at $96,000, along with three other vehicles, was reported stolen one day earlier from a Hampstead, New Hampshire dealership. To date, law enforcement has recovered forty-one vehicles believed and eleven dirt bikes allegedly stolen by members of the conspiracy, the majority of which were recovered in Rhode Island and Massachusetts. One vehicle allegedly stolen by the group, a Range Rover, was recovered from a shipping container in Elizabeth, New Jersey, destined for Africa. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Paul F. Daly, Jr., and Julie M. White. A federal indictment and criminal complaints are merely accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The matter was investigated by the FBI, with substantial assistance from the Providence Police Department, Cranston Police Department, North Providence Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, North Kingstown Police Department, East Providence Police Department, Rhode Island State Police, Massachusetts State Police, Connecticut State Police, Easton, Massachusetts Police Department, Hampstead, Massachusetts Police Department, Waltham, Massachusetts Police Department, Somerset, Massachusetts Police Department, Internal Revenue - Criminal Investigation, and the National Insurance Crime Bureau. ### indictment.pdf crimnal_complaint_affidavit.pdf


title: Florida Financial Advisor Charged with Promoting Illegal Tax Shelter, Stealing Clients’ Funds and Money Laundering

component: Tax Division

body_text: A federal grand jury in Gulfport, Mississippi, returned an indictment, unsealed yesterday, charging a Florida financial advisor with a years-long scheme to promote and operate an illegal tax shelter, stealing some of his clients’ funds and money laundering. According to the indictment, Stephen T. Mellinger III, of Florida, was a securities broker, financial advisor and insurance salesman. Beginning in late 2013, Mellinger allegedly conspired with several others to defraud the IRS by promoting an illegal tax shelter. Mellinger allegedly instructed clients participating in the shelter, including clients in Mississippi, to transfer money to a company controlled by Mellinger or his co-conspirators in the amount they wished to claim as a deduction on their tax returns. The conspirators then allegedly returned the money to a bank account that clients controlled less a percentage fee that they charged for their services. Even though tax shelter clients received their money back, Mellinger allegedly directed them to claim the transfer to the company as a deduction on their tax returns, and to label the deduction as a “royalty” payment. Mellinger allegedly earned more than $3 million in fees from the shelter. Also, in January 2016, the federal government allegedly seized funds from some of Mellinger’s clients, who were engaged in a scheme to defraud health care benefit programs, including TRICARE, the U.S. Department of Defense’s health care benefit program. Mellinger conspired with a close relative to take advantage of the seizure to steal some of the money that those clients had transferred through the tax shelter. Mellinger then allegedly laundered the stolen funds, which he knew were proceeds of healthcare fraud. Ultimately, he allegedly used some of the funds he stole from his clients to buy a home in Delray Beach, Florida. Mellinger was charged with conspiracy to defraud the United States, aiding in the preparation of false tax returns, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering and money laundering. If convicted, Mellinger faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for conspiring to defraud the IRS, a maximum penalty of three years in prison for each substantive count of aiding in the preparation of false tax returns, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiring to commit wire fraud, a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for conspiring to commit money laundering and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each substantive count of money laundering. 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 and U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement. IRS Criminal Investigation and Defense Criminal Investigative Service are investigating the case. Trial Attorneys William Montague, Richard J. Hagerman and Matthew Hicks of the Tax Division, Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham for the Southern District of Mississippi and Trial Attorneys Emily Cohen and Jasmin Salehi Fashami of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Mellinger Indictment.pdf


title: Leader of 2021 Tennessee Clinic Blockade Sentenced for Federal Conspiracy Against Rights and Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act Convictions

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: Chester Gallagher, the leader of a March 5, 2021, blockade of a Mount Juliet, Tennessee, reproductive health clinic was sentenced yesterday to 16 months in prison and three years of supervised release following his convictions for federal conspiracy against rights and Freedom of Access to Clinic Entrances (FACE) Act offenses. “This defendant, like everyone else, has a right to his personal views regarding reproductive healthcare, and the right to speak, write and demonstrate about those views,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “But he does not have the right to impose his views on others by using intimidation and physical obstruction to prevent access to reproductive health care. This defendant is being held accountable for leading both a conspiracy to blockade a reproductive health clinic and the actual blockade, which physically obstructed patient access. The Justice Department will continue to protect patients seeking reproductive health services and the providers delivering those services.” “The defendant and his co-conspirators knowingly chose to violate a law that was enacted to protect health care providers and patients in an effort to impose their views about reproductive healthcare on others” said U.S. Attorney Henry Leventis for the Middle District of Tennessee. “While we are all entitled to our personal views, yesterday’s sentence is a reminder that we cannot pick and choose which laws we follow and that those who violate the law will be held accountable.” “This sentencing should send a clear message that the FBI will always work to bring to justice those who violate the civil rights of others,” said Special Agent in Charge Joseph E. Carrico of the FBI Memphis Field Office. “The FBI will continue to investigate FACE Act violations to protect the rights of those who receive or provide lawful reproductive health care without the threat of violence or intimidation.” Gallagher and five co-defendants were previously convicted at trial of all charges. A sixth co-defendant previously pleaded guilty. Evidence presented at trial proved that Gallagher and his co-defendants engaged in a conspiracy to prevent employees at the Mount Juliet reproductive health clinic from providing, and patients from receiving, reproductive health services, a civil right secured by the FACE Act. As part of the conspiracy, Gallagher and others traveled to Tennessee from other states to participate in the clinic blockade, and Gallagher and another co-defendant stalled the Mount Juliet Police Department through phony negotiations. Evidence at trial further proved that the defendant violated the FACE Act by using physical obstruction to interfere with the clinic’s employees and a patient, because the clinic provided, and the patient sought, reproductive health services. Gallagher was also convicted of conspiracy against rights and FACE Act offenses in the Eastern District of Michigan on Aug. 20. The FBI Memphis Field Office, Nashville Resident Agency, investigated the case. The U.S Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Tennessee and Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section prosecuted the case.


title: Justice Department Announces Significant Milestone in Policing Reform Efforts for the City of New Orleans and New Orleans Police Department

body_text: The Justice Department announced today that it, together with the City of New Orleans (the City), has jointly moved for the City to enter into a two-year “sustainment period” according to the terms of a negotiated plan, bringing the consent decree concerning the New Orleans Police Department (NOPD) closer to successful resolution. The joint motion and proposed plan, which must be approved by the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of Louisiana, recognize the significant progress NOPD and the City have made that supports entry into the two-year sustainment period required by the consent decree. The two-year sustainment period is designed to ensure that reforms will continue even after the consent decree’s eventual termination. During this time, NOPD and the City have an opportunity to demonstrate that they have the systems in place to monitor their own compliance with the decree and take meaningful corrective actions when necessary. The agreement also requires the City and NOPD to complete important obligations under the consent decree to continue the reform process. “Today’s filing recognizes the significant progress the City of New Orleans and the New Orleans Police Department have made to ensure constitutional and fair policing,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We look forward to continuing to work with NOPD, the City and the Court Monitor to achieve full and enduring compliance with the consent decree, an outcome that helps strengthen public safety and enhance police-community relations.” “After years of hard work and intense collaboration, the City of New Orleans and the New Orleans Police Department are well on the path to demonstrate compliance and sustainability of policing reforms required by the consent decree,” said U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana. “Constitutional policing standards are essential to preserving community trust and confidence in law enforcement. Our office, along with the Justice Department, will continue to work with the NOPD, the City of New Orleans and the Court Monitor to a positive resolution.” NOPD has made notable progress in achieving compliance with the consent decree, including reforms that go beyond the requirements of the decree. For example: Reduced Use of Force: Since entry of the consent decree, NOPD’s total use of force has declined, and its serious use of force has declined by 47% from 2015 to 2023. Improved Stop, Search and Arrest Practices: NOPD’s 2023 Stop, Search and Arrest audit — which used a comprehensive protocol approved by an independent monitor and the Justice Department — found an overall 95.4% rate of compliance with the Stop, Search and Arrest requirements of the decree. Improved Response Times: NOPD responded quicker to calls for service after NOPD piloted a program this year which added a new platoon to one of its busiest districts during peak service times. NOPD has committed to evaluating whether it can add a new platoon to other districts. Improved Language Access: NOPD has translated key policies and forms into Spanish and Vietnamese (two of New Orleans’ commonly spoken languages besides English), increased the number of their certified Spanish and Vietnamese interpreters, rolled out a smart phone application to enable telephonic translation in the field and committed to periodically assessing the translation services needed throughout the city. Policing Free of Gender Bias: NOPD added 11 new investigators to help reduce individual caseloads in cases involving sexual violence. NOPD has also implemented a call‑back process for callers who were gone on arrival when NOPD responded on scene. Crisis Intervention Team: The City developed a Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit to help respond to incidents involving people in crisis. The Mobile Crisis Intervention Unit handles calls in place of NOPD or as a co-responder with NOPD. The City’s dispatch system has diverted 3,360 calls for service to this unit from June 1, 2023 to July 17, 2024. The Civil Rights Division’s Special Litigation Section and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana handled the matter. The Civil Rights Division continues to prioritize constitutional policing and currently has pending investigations into police departments across the country, including in Memphis, Tennessee; New York City; and Rankin County, Mississippi. The consent decree, as well as additional information about the Civil Rights Division, are available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt/special-litigation-section .


title: Electrostim Medical Services, Inc. and Mario Garcia, Jr. to Pay $20 Million to Resolve Allegations of Billing for Excessive and Unnecessary Supplies

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced today that Florida-based durable medical equipment supplier Electrostim Medical Services, Inc. (EMSI) and its Founder and Chairman Mario Garcia, Jr. have together agreed to pay, based on their limited ability to do so, $20 million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by billing federal healthcare programs for excessive and medically unnecessary supplies associated with Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and related devices. TENS units provide short-term pain relief for many patients by delivering a low-voltage electrical current to the skin around an affected body part. Among the supplies necessary for TENS use are electrodes, which transmit the current, and rechargeable batteries, which power the device. In limited circumstances, healthcare providers may prescribe a wearable garment containing electrodes, such as a specialized glove or sock, to be used instead of traditional electrodes for appropriate patients. For extended use, electrodes and rechargeable batteries require occasional replacement. When a physician prescribes a TENS or related device for home use, a durable medical equipment supplier, such as EMSI, receives a referral; provides the patient with a device kit, containing the device and all supplies necessary for approximately one month of use; and submits a single claim for reimbursement under a billing code for the kit. Garments are separately reimbursable under a different code. Federal healthcare programs vary in how they reimburse for replacement supplies. Some programs, such as Medicare, permit monthly billing for all medically necessary supplies at a fixed rate under a “bundled” supply code. Other programs—including TRICARE, the federal healthcare program for military members, retirees, and their families—permit itemized billing for all medically necessary supplies using “unbundled” supply codes. The government alleges that, from at least 2018 through 2019, EMSI and Garcia profited by marketing its TENS and related electrical stimulation devices to beneficiaries of federal healthcare programs that reimbursed for unbundled supply codes—primarily TRICARE. EMSI typically billed TRICARE for replacement supplies on a monthly basis, including improperly billing for supplies during the first month despite knowing that patients received kits that contained all initial supplies. EMSI’s improper billing practices also included submitting claims for a monthly resupply of traditional electrodes for the same beneficiaries to whom it billed for a garment, despite knowing that patients with a garment did not need traditional electrodes. According to the government, EMSI and Garcia knowingly executed this scheme without regard to medical necessity, resulting in false claims to federal programs. The result was that many TRICARE beneficiaries were forced to pay co-pays for excessive amounts of supplies they did not need or want. “Durable medical equipment suppliers play a vital role in providing safe and effective medical devices to patients in need, and especially to our brave service members and their families,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “EMSI and Garcia served their own financial interests over and above the medical needs of patients. This conduct will not be tolerated by my office. We will work tirelessly to hold businesses like this to account.” Acting Special Agent in Charge Brian J. Solecki, with the Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS) Northeast Field Office, echoed the U.S. Attorney’s remarks. “Protecting the integrity of TRICARE is a top priority of DCIS, the law enforcement arm of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General,” he stated. “Medically unnecessary services and fraudulent expenses place a tremendous burden on the TRICARE program. We will continue to work with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to ensure that individuals who engage in fraudulent activity, at the expense of the U.S. military, are held accountable for their actions.” “The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General remains committed to working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations involving medical provider billing schemes that target programs administered by the U.S. Department of Labor,” said Syreeta Scott, Special Agent in Charge, Mid-Atlantic Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. This resolution concludes a years-long investigation by agents from DCIS, DOL-OIG, the Office of Personnel Management, Office of Inspector General (OPM-OIG), United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG), and Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General (VA-OIG). Assistant United States Attorneys Charlene Keller Fullmer, Bryan C. Hughes, and former Assistant United States Attorney John T. Crutchlow handled the civil investigation and settlement, assisted by Auditor George Niedzwicki. The claims asserted by the United States are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.


title: Hoover Man Indicted in Connection with Murder-for-Hire Plot

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal grand jury indicted a Hoover man in connection with his solicitation of a murder-for-hire, announced U.S. Attorney Prim Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton Peeples. A one-count indictment filed in U.S. District Court charges Mohammad A.H. Mohammad, 63, of Hoover, with use of a cell phone in attempting to hire someone to murder his selected victim. The crime allegedly occurred between August 2024 and September 2024 in Jefferson County. The maximum penalty for use of interstate commerce facilities in the attempted commission of murder-for-hire is 10 years in prison. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan S. Cross and William R. McComb are prosecuting the case. An indictment contains only charges. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


body_text: Captain Received Eight Month Prison Term WASHINGTON — Two corporations that operated the motor tanker P/S Dream — Prive Overseas Marine LLC and Prive Shipping Denizcilik Ticaret — were sentenced yesterday in federal court in New Orleans to pay a $2 million criminal penalty and complete four years of probation. The companies pleaded guilty in May to charges of conspiracy, obstruction of justice and violating the Act to Prevent Pollution from Ships (APPS). The court sentenced the P/S Dream’ s Captain, Abdurrahman Korkmaz, on Sept. 10 to eight months in prison for an APPS offense and obstructing the U.S. Coast Guard’s investigation. The charges pertain to the investigation of the P/S Dream vessel when it was heading to New Orleans in January 2023. Senior corporate managers were aware that Korkmaz had arranged to discharge oil-contaminated waste from a residual tank on deck into the ocean. The captain ordered the crew to pump the waste overboard and clean the tank with soap. The seamen rigged a portable pump to empty the contents overboard over three days. The defendants falsified the vessel’s oil record book by omitting the discharge. One of the crew members alerted the Coast Guard and shared videos of the discharge and resulting oil sheen. When the ship arrived in Louisiana, another crew member came forward and gave the Coast Guard a recording of an officer discussing the discharge. The falsified logs, presented to the Coast Guard during its inspection, were intended to conceal the fact that the crew had dumped oil-contaminated waste overboard in violation of MARPOL Annex I, an international treaty regulating oil pollution from ships. Corporate representatives at Prive Shipping were aware that the oil-contaminated waste remained in the tank and were informed by the ship’s master that it had been dumped overboard. The $2 million criminal penalty includes $500,000 in organizational community service payments that will fund various maritime environmental projects in the Eastern District of Louisiana. Those projects will be managed by the congressionally established National Fish & Wildlife Foundation. Captain Korkmaz is a Turkish national. Prive Overseas Marine is based in Dubai and Prive Shipping is headquartered in Turkey. As a condition of probation, the corporations must also adhere to an environmental compliance plan mandating audit, safety and inspection requirements over the next four years. Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division and U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans for the Eastern District of Louisiana made the announcement. The Coast Guard Investigative Service and EPA Criminal Investigations Division investigated the case with assistance from Coast Guard Sector New Orleans. Senior Litigation Counsel Richard A. Udell and Senior Trial Attorney Ryan Connors of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys G. Dall Kammer and Christine M. Calogero for the Eastern District of Louisiana prosecuted the case. exhibits_prive.pdf prive_jfs_filed.pdf


title: KC Man Charged with Possessing Hundreds of Illegal Machine Gun Conversion Devices

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man has been charged in federal court with possessing hundreds of homemade devices to convert semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic machine guns. “Law enforcement agencies in our area and nationwide report a disturbing increase in the number of machine gun conversion devices that quickly and easily transform a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic machine gun,” said U.S. Attorney Teresa Moore. “Machine gun conversion devices are often cheap and homemade, just a small piece of metal or plastic that converts a run-of-the-mill firearm into a weapon of war. These dangerously lethal and illegal weapons pose a threat to both public safety and the safety of law enforcement officers. “Using these devices is illegal. Selling these devices is illegal. And being in possession of these devices is also illegal,” added Moore. “The Department of Justice is making it a priority to combat the spread of these deadly weapons as a focus of our strategy to drive down violent crime.” Dalton R. Johnston, 27, was charged in a three-count criminal complaint filed under seal in the U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., on Tuesday, Sept. 24. That complaint was unsealed and made public today following Johnston’s arrest. According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, Johnston used his 3-D printer to manufacture machine gun conversion devices, which he sold in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Machine gun conversion devices, or MCDs, also known as a “switches” or “auto sears,” are used to convert semi-automatic weapons into machine guns that fire multiple shots automatically through a single pull of the trigger, enabling more rapid and often less accurate gunfire. Whether or not they are attached to a firearm, these devices constitute machine guns under federal law. “In support of the DOJ’s newly established Action Network to Terminate Illegal Machine Gun Conversion Devices, ATF will continue to work nonstop to disrupt the manufacturing and possession of machine gun conversion devices,” said Bernard G. Hansen, ATF Special Agent in Charge, Kansas City Field Division. “What ATF saw 10 years ago with the emergence of the ghost gun phenomena,” said Hansen, “is now what ATF is seeing with the emergence of machine gun conversion devices. These highly dangerous devices can transform a street corner into a combat zone, devastating entire communities and the brave members of law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day. Machine gun conversion devices are now the most frequently recovered type of illegal firearm. If you are manufacturing or in possession of these deadly devices, we will identify you and arrest you; we will not let up. ATF’s mission is to protect the public from violent crime, and getting these devices off the streets does just that.” On Aug. 2, 2024, Johnston allegedly sold 10 Glock conversion devices and an AR-type conversion device for a total of $70 to an undercover agent with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. At the time of the transaction, the affidavit says, Johnston told the undercover agent the devices were incomplete as he did not manufacture the selector rod for them (though he later provided those to the undercover agent). Johnston agreed to manufacture and sell 100 AR-type conversion devices for $250 after the undercover agent said he would be trafficking the devices to Chicago and selling them for a large profit. Johnston stated that he printed the machine gun conversion devices himself and it would take him approximately a week. Johnston also explained that he could manufacture AR-type firearms as well, but it would take him weeks to complete them. On Aug. 15, 2024, Johnston met the undercover agent in a gas station parking lot on Blue Ridge Cutoff and gave him a clear vacuum-sealed package that contained 100 AR-type machine gun conversion devices. The undercover agent paid Johnston $250 for the devices. Johnston allegedly told the undercover agent he could manufacture and sell 300 AR-type conversion devices within the next two weeks for $750. On Aug. 30, 2024, Johnston met the undercover agent in the same gas station parking lot on Blue Ridge Cutoff for the transaction. The undercover agent told Johnston he/she wanted to purchase 500 AR-type conversion devices in the next few weeks. Johnston said he could manufacture that many in approximately a week. Johnston explained that he can 3-D print 45 AR-type conversion devices at one time, and can print up to three batches per day. Johnston also told the undercover agent he could produce silencers, which he sells for $20, and agreed to manufacture a silencer for the undercover agent. The federal criminal complaint charges Johnston with three counts of possessing machine guns, that is, 3D-printed machine gun conversion devices. Johnston allegedly was in possession of 10 3-D printed Glock machine gun conversion devices on Aug. 2, 2024; in possession of 100 3-D printed AR-type machine gun conversion devices on Aug. 15, 2024; and in possession of 300 3-D printed AR-type machine gun conversion devices on Aug. 30, 2024. The charges contained in this complaint are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert M. Smith. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.


title: Federal Court Orders Kentwood Veterinarian To Pay $35,000 In Penalties And To Cease Dispensing Controlled Substances

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that U.S. District Court Judge Paul L. Maloney entered a consent decree that orders Ronald E. Zylstra, D.V.M., to pay $35,000 in civil penalties, cease dispensing controlled substances for five years, and abide by other restrictions on his handling of controlled substances. The consent decree resolves allegations in a complaint the United States filed against Dr. Zylstra for violating the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). “Practitioners who dispense controlled substances must adhere to their recordkeeping obligations under federal law, which are critical to preventing and detecting diversion,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “As we fight the opioid epidemic, my office will continue to work with DEA and other law enforcement agencies to combat this and other controlled-substance violations.” The United States’ complaint alleged that Dr. Zylstra, who owns and practices at Kentwood Veterinary Clinic, failed to meet multiple recordkeeping obligations. Most significantly, the complaint asserts that when Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigators inspected Kentwood Veterinary Clinic, an audit revealed that over 41,000 opioid and benzodiazepine tablets were unaccounted for. It also alleges that Dr. Zylstra failed to fulfill other recordkeeping obligations, including recording the receipt of Schedule II controlled substances and conducting an inventory of controlled substances at least every two years. The $35,000 civil penalty was negotiated based on Dr. Zylstra’s inability to pay a larger amount. In addition to this penalty and the five-year prohibition on dispensing controlled substances, the consent decree limits to whom he can prescribe, restricts which controlled substances he can order and administer during procedures, and subjects him to increased DEA monitoring for five years. “DEA is committed to ensuring registrants adhere to the laws set forth in the Controlled Substance Act, to include recordkeeping – an integral step in preventing the diversion of controlled substances,” said Orville Green, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Division of DEA . “When medical professionals fail to comply with these laws, it puts our communities and lives at risk. We will continue to work with our regulatory partners to hold registrants accountable and ensure West Michigan communities remain healthy and safe.” The resolution obtained in this case was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan and the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Whitney M. Schnurr and Andrew J. Hull handled this case. The complaint and consent decree in this case can be found on the Court’s online docket under United States v. Ronald E. Zylstra, D.V.M. , No. 1:24-cv-00963 (W.D. Mich.). The claims resolved by the consent decree are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability. ###


title: Former Candidate for 13th Congressional District of Florida Charged for Election-Related Threat to Former Primary Candidate and Private Citizen

component: Criminal Division

body_text: An indictment was unsealed yesterday charging a Florida man with threatening to kill his primary opponent in the 2021 election for the 13th Congressional District of Florida and a private citizen and acquaintance of his opponent. According to the indictment, William Robert Braddock III, 41, of St. Petersburg, and Victim 1 were candidates in the primary election to represent the 13th Congressional District of Florida in the U.S. House of Representatives. Victim 2 was a private citizen and acquaintance of Victim 1. On June 8, 2021, Braddock made several threats to injure and kill Victim 1 and Victim 2 during a telephone call with Victim 2. Specifically, Braddock threatened, in part, to “call up my Russian-Ukrainian hit squad” and make Victim 1 disappear. After making the threats, Braddock left the United States and was later found to be residing in the Philippines. Braddock was recently deported from the Philippines to the United States and made his first court appearance yesterday in Los Angeles. Braddock is charged with one count of interstate transmission of a true threat to injure another person. If convicted, Braddock faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement. The FBI Tampa Field Office is investigating the case with support from the St. Petersburg Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, FBI’s Office of the Legal Attaché in Manila, and U.S. Marshals Service provided substantial assistance. The investigation also benefited from foreign law enforcement cooperation provided by the Philippine Department of Justice and Philippine Bureau of Immigration. Trial Attorney Alexandre Dempsey of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlton Gammons for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case. This case is part of the Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force. Announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the department’s efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers — whether elected, appointed, or volunteer — are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Three years after its formation, the task force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they carry on the critical work that the task force has begun. Under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, the task force is led by PIN and includes several other entities within the Justice Department, including the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For more information regarding the Justice Department’s efforts to combat threats against election workers, read the Deputy Attorney General’s memo . To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found at www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/ . You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov . Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Justice Department and EPA Announce Settlement to Reduce Benzene and Volatile Organic Compounds from Wastewater at Lima Refining Company’s Refinery in Ohio

body_text: The Justice Department and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a settlement with the Lima Refining Company (LRC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Canadian-based Cenovus Energy, to address violations of the Clean Air Act at its refinery in Lima, Ohio. Under the settlement, LRC must pay a civil penalty of $19 million and implement an estimated $150 million in capital investments, including control technology expected to reduce emissions of benzene by an estimated 4.34 tons per year, other hazardous air pollutants (HAP) by 16.26 tons per year, and other volatile organic compound emissions (VOC) by 219 tons per year. The Lima Refinery is surrounded by a community with environmental justice concerns. “This settlement is part of an ongoing initiative to curtail illegal benzene and VOC emissions at refineries that have failed to allocate the necessary personnel and capital investments to ensure compliance with rules they have long been subject to,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Under the settlement, the refinery will implement controls that will greatly improve air quality and reduce health impacts on the overburdened community that surrounds the refinery.” “Lima Refining unlawfully exposed the surrounding community to toxic benzene emissions and other hazardous pollutants,” said Assistant Administrator David Uhlmann of the EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Today’s settlement demonstrates how monitoring can help protect overburdened communities from harmful emissions from refineries. Lima will pay a substantial penalty for its violations and install $150 million in emissions controls that will provide cleaner air to a community that deserves nothing less.” * “Environmental justice is a core priority of our Office and of the Department. Through its illegal emissions of benzene, VOCs and other pollutants from its facility, the LRC impermissibly violated the Clean Air Act and jeopardized the health of Ohio’s residents,” said U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “We will continue to be vigilant and strictly enforce environmental laws and regulations to protect our district’s residents from toxic pollutants. Ohioans should not have to worry about living and working in an area where air pollution from local industry could make them sick.” As part of the settlement, LRC will install one or more flash columns to reduce benzene in wastewater streams leading to its wastewater treatment plant and will cease operating, replace or upgrade other units at the refinery. LRC will also install six air pollutant monitoring stations to monitor air quality outside of the refinery fence line and make the results publicly available. The United States’ complaint, filed simultaneously with the settlement, alleges that LRC violated federal regulations limiting benzene in refinery wastewater streams, and HAP and VOC emissions at its Lima Refinery, as well as the general requirement to use good air pollution control practices. Benzene is known to cause cancer in humans. Short-term inhalation exposure to benzene also may cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, as well as eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation, and, at high levels, unconsciousness. Long-term inhalation exposure can cause various disorders in the blood, including reduced numbers of red blood cells and anemia in occupational settings. Reproductive effects have been reported for women exposed by inhalation to high levels, and adverse effects on the developing fetus have been observed in animal tests. VOCs, along with nitrous oxide, play a major role in the atmospheric reactions that produce ozone, which is the primary constituent of smog. Ground-level ozone exposure is linked to a variety of short- and long-term health problems, including difficulty breathing, aggravated asthma, reduced lung capacity and increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and bronchitis. This settlement is part of EPA’s and the Justice Department’s ongoing focus to assist communities that have been historically marginalized and disproportionately exposed to pollution. For more information about the settlement, please visit www.epa.gov/enforcement/2024-lima-refining-clean-air-act-benzene-waste-neshap-and-volatile-organic-compounds . The proposed consent decree, lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. Information on submitting comment and access to the settlement agreement is available at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees . The EPA investigated the case. Attorneys with the Environment and Natural Resources Division's Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case. *Editor's note: this quote has been updated for accuracy to remove "fence line," “the oil and gas sector” and “healthier water.”


title: Justice Department Sues Alabama for Violating Federal Law’s Prohibition on Systematic Efforts to Remove Voters Within 90 Days of an Election

body_text: The Justice Department announced today that it has filed a lawsuit against the State of Alabama and the Alabama Secretary of State to challenge a systematic State program aimed at removing voters from its election rolls too close to the Nov. 5 general election, in violation of the National Voter Registration Act of 1993 (NVRA). “The right to vote is one of the most sacred rights in our democracy,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “As Election Day approaches, it is critical that Alabama redress voter confusion resulting from its list maintenance mailings sent in violation of federal law. Officials across the country should take heed of the National Voter Registration Act’s clear and unequivocal restrictions on systematic list maintenance efforts that fall within 90 days of an election. The Quiet Period Provision of federal law exists to prevent eligible voters from being removed from the rolls as a result of last-minute, error-prone efforts. The Justice Department will continue to use all the tools it has available to ensure that the voting rights of every eligible voter are protected.” Section 8(c)(2) of the NVRA, also known as the Quiet Period Provision, requires states to complete systematic programs aimed at removing the names of ineligible voters from voter registration lists by no later than 90 days before federal elections. The Quiet Period Provision applies to certain systematic programs carried out by states that are aimed at striking names from voter registration lists based on a perceived failure to meet initial eligibility requirements — including citizenship — at the time of registration. The Quiet Period is an important protection for voters, because systematic removal programs may be error-ridden, cause voter confusion and remove eligible voters days or weeks before Election Day who may be unable to correct the state’s errors in time to vote or may be dissuaded from voting at all. States may remove names from official lists of voters in various ways and for various reasons, but they may not carry-on this kind of systematic removal program so close to a federal election. On Aug. 13, the Secretary of State announced the launch of a “process to remove noncitizens registered to vote in Alabama.” This was 84 days before the Nov. 5 general election. The Justice Department’s review found that both native-born and naturalized U.S. citizens have received letters stating that their voter record has been made inactive and that they have been placed on a path for removal from Alabama’s statewide voter registration list. The letter directs recipients who are in fact U.S. citizens and eligible to vote to complete and submit an attached State of Alabama Voter Registration Form. In turn, that form instructs that people may not register to vote in the 14 days before an election. This systematic voter removal program, which the State is conducting within 90 days of the upcoming federal election, violates the Quiet Period Provision. The Justice Department seeks injunctive relief that would restore the ability of impacted eligible voters to vote unimpeded on Election Day and would prohibit future Quiet Period violations. The department also seeks remedial mailings to educate eligible voters concerning the restoration of their rights and adequate training of local officials and poll workers to address confusion and distrust among eligible voters accused of being noncitizens. More information about voting and elections is available at www.justice.gov/voting . More information about the NVRA and other federal voting laws is available at www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section . The department recently announced a new guidance document addressing limits on when and how jurisdictions may remove voters from their voter lists. Complaints about discriminatory voting practices may be reported to the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section through the internet reporting portal at civilrights.justice.gov or by telephone at 1-800-253-3931.


body_text: WASHINGTON — The Justice Department and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) today announced a settlement with the Lima Refining Company (LRC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of Canadian-based Cenovus Energy, to address violations of the Clean Air Act at its refinery in Lima, Ohio. Under the settlement, LRC must pay a civil penalty of $19 million and implement an estimated $150 million in capital investments, including control technology expected to reduce emissions of benzene by an estimated 4.34 tons per year, other hazardous air pollutants (HAP) by 16.26 tons per year, and other volatile organic compound emissions (VOC) by 219 tons per year. The Lima Refinery is surrounded by a community with environmental justice concerns. “This settlement is part of an ongoing initiative to curtail illegal benzene and VOC emissions at refineries that have failed to allocate the necessary personnel and capital investments to ensure compliance with rules they have long been subject to,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division. “Under the settlement, the refinery will implement controls that will greatly improve air quality and reduce health impacts on the overburdened community that surrounds the refinery.” “Lima Refining unlawfully exposed the surrounding community to toxic benzene emissions and other hazardous pollutants,” said Assistant Administrator David Uhlmann of the EPA’s Office of Enforcement and Compliance Assurance. “Today’s settlement demonstrates how monitoring can help protect overburdened communities from harmful emissions from refineries. Lima will pay a substantial penalty for its violations and install $150 million in emissions controls that will provide cleaner air to a community that deserves nothing less.” * “Environmental justice is a core priority of our Office and of the Department. Through its illegal emissions of benzene, VOCs and other pollutants from its facility, the LRC impermissibly violated the Clean Air Act and jeopardized the health of Ohio’s residents,” said U.S Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko for the Northern District of Ohio. “We will continue to be vigilant and strictly enforce environmental laws and regulations to protect our district’s residents from toxic pollutants. Ohioans should not have to worry about living and working in an area where air pollution from local industry could make them sick.” As part of the settlement, LRC will install one or more flash columns to reduce benzene in wastewater streams leading to its wastewater treatment plant and will cease operating, replace or upgrade other units at the refinery. LRC will also install six air pollutant monitoring stations to monitor air quality outside of the refinery fence line and make the results publicly available. The United States’ complaint, filed simultaneously with the settlement, alleges that LRC violated federal regulations limiting benzene in refinery wastewater streams, and HAP and VOC emissions at its Lima Refinery, as well as the general requirement to use good air pollution control practices. Benzene is known to cause cancer in humans. Short-term inhalation exposure to benzene also may cause drowsiness, dizziness, headaches, as well as eye, skin and respiratory tract irritation, and, at high levels, unconsciousness. Long-term inhalation exposure can cause various disorders in the blood, including reduced numbers of red blood cells and anemia in occupational settings. Reproductive effects have been reported for women exposed by inhalation to high levels, and adverse effects on the developing fetus have been observed in animal tests. VOCs, along with nitrous oxide, play a major role in the atmospheric reactions that produce ozone, which is the primary constituent of smog. Ground-level ozone exposure is linked to a variety of short- and long-term health problems, including difficulty breathing, aggravated asthma, reduced lung capacity and increased susceptibility to respiratory illnesses like pneumonia and bronchitis. This settlement is part of EPA’s and the Justice Department’s ongoing focus to assist communities that have been historically marginalized and disproportionately exposed to pollution. For more information about the settlement, please visit www.epa.gov/enforcement/2024-lima-refining-clean-air-act-benzene-waste-neshap-and-volatile-organic-compounds . The proposed consent decree, lodged in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Ohio, is subject to a public comment period and final court approval. Information on submitting comment and access to the settlement agreement is available at: www.justice.gov/enrd/consent-decrees . The EPA investigated the case. Attorneys with the Environment and Natural Resources Division's Environmental Enforcement Section are handling the case. *Editor's note: this quote has been updated for accuracy to remove "fence line," “the oil and gas sector” and “healthier water.”


component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, FL – An indictment was unsealed yesterday charging a Florida man with threatening to kill his primary opponent in the 2021 election for the 13th Congressional District of Florida and a private citizen and acquaintance of his opponent. According to the indictment, William Robert Braddock III, 41, of St. Petersburg, and Victim 1 were candidates in the primary election to represent the 13th Congressional District of Florida in the U.S. House of Representatives. Victim 2 was a private citizen and acquaintance of Victim 1. On June 8, 2021, Braddock made several threats to injure and kill Victim 1 and Victim 2 during a telephone call with Victim 2. Specifically, Braddock threatened, in part, to “call up my Russian-Ukrainian hit squad” and make Victim 1 disappear. After making the threats, Braddock left the United States and was later found to be residing in the Philippines. Braddock was recently deported from the Philippines to the United States and made his first court appearance yesterday in Los Angeles. Braddock is charged with one count of interstate transmission of a true threat to injure another person. If convicted, Braddock faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida made the announcement. The FBI Tampa Field Office is investigating the case with support from the St. Petersburg Police Department. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, FBI’s Office of the Legal Attaché in Manila, and U.S. Marshals Service provided substantial assistance. The investigation also benefited from foreign law enforcement cooperation provided by the Philippine Department of Justice and Philippine Bureau of Immigration. Trial Attorney Alexandre Dempsey of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carlton Gammons for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case. This case is part of the Justice Department’s Election Threats Task Force. Announced by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland and launched by Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco in June 2021, the task force has led the department’s efforts to address threats of violence against election workers, and to ensure that all election workers — whether elected, appointed, or volunteer — are able to do their jobs free from threats and intimidation. The task force engages with the election community and state and local law enforcement to assess allegations and reports of threats against election workers, and has investigated and prosecuted these matters where appropriate, in partnership with FBI Field Offices and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices throughout the country. Three years after its formation, the task force is continuing this work and supporting the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and FBI Field Offices nationwide as they carry on the critical work that the task force has begun. Under the leadership of Deputy Attorney General Monaco, the task force is led by PIN and includes several other entities within the Justice Department, including the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, Civil Rights Division, National Security Division, and FBI, as well as key interagency partners, such as the Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Postal Inspection Service. For more information regarding the Justice Department’s efforts to combat threats against election workers, read the Deputy Attorney General’s memo . To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact your local FBI office and request to speak with the Election Crimes Coordinator. Contact information for every FBI field office may be found at www.fbi.gov/contact-us/field-offices/ . You may also contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov . Complaints submitted will be reviewed by the task force and referred for investigation or response accordingly. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Winter Garden Man Who Backed Vehicle Into Business And Stole Six Firearms Pleads Guilty

body_text: Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Edward Vincenzo Camacho (20, Winter Garden) has pleaded guilty to theft of a firearm from a federal firearms licensee. Camacho faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to the plea agreement, just before midnight on August 18, 2023, Camacho backed a sports utility vehicle into the front of a federal firearms licensee business. After smashing the front door and wall of the business, Camacho entered the store and broke a glass case where multiple firearms were housed. Camacho stole six firearms and then fled in his vehicle. Camacho was apprehended less than two hours later after a foot pursuit with law enforcement. During the foot pursuit, Camacho was seen tossing three firearms onto the ground, two of which were confirmed to be stolen from the federal firearms licensee business. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Winter Park Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Alexa McNeff. This case is part of the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence for occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: U.S. Marshals Arrest Over 3,400 fugitives in Operation North Star

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: The Justice Department today announced that the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) arrested 3,421 violent fugitives, including 216 for homicide, 803 for assault, and 482 for weapons offenses, during the latest phase of its high-impact fugitive apprehension initiative called Operation North Star FY 2024 (ONS FY24). ONS FY24 enforcement activities covered 74 operational days, from May 10 to Sept. 13, and targeted fugitives and violent offenders in 10 metropolitan areas, prioritizing those who used firearms in the commission of crimes or signaled high risk factors for violence. ONS FY24 targeted violent offenders wanted on warrants for homicide, sexual offenses, robbery, aggravated assault, and firearms violations. During the operation, investigators also seized 534 firearms, more than $508,000 in U.S. currency, and 456 kilograms in illegal narcotics, including 138 pounds and over 550,000 pills of deadly fentanyl. The 10 metropolitan areas selected for ONS FY24 were identified using data from the National Crime Information Center and the FBI Uniform Crime Report, and included Dallas and Fort Worth, Texas; Charleston and North Charleston, South Carolina; Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Little Rock, Arkansas; Phoenix; St. Louis (to include East St. Louis, Illinois); Birmingham, Alabama; Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Dayton, Ohio; and San Antonio. “We first launched Operation North Star in 2022 to identify and apprehend the most dangerous fugitives and violent offenders,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “From May to September of this year, the U.S. Marshals Service worked with state and local law enforcement partners in 10 metropolitan areas to arrest more than 3,400 fugitives and violent offenders and seize large quantities of firearms and fentanyl. I am deeply grateful to every Deputy U.S. Marshal, Task Force Officer, investigator, and police officer who carried out these arrests, and who did so at great risk to themselves.” “Over the past year, the Marshals Service conducted Operation North Star in 10 cities across the country experiencing high levels of gun violence,” said USMS Director Ronald L. Davis. “Over 3,000 dangerous fugitives, including over 200 homicide suspects, were apprehended and removed from neighborhoods. The success of this operation is the result of the outstanding combined efforts of our Deputies and Task Force Officers, along with strong collaboration with the community and our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners.” Since July 2022, in a total of 30 locations, USMS Operation North Star initiatives have resulted in the apprehension of more than 10,200 wanted fugitives, including 1,153 charged with homicide, in addition to the removal of more than 1,425 weapons associated with violent crime. The agency utilized a data-driven, evidence-based approach to remove the dangerous criminals who are the drivers of violence in those communities. The concept behind interagency law enforcement operations such as ONS evolved largely from regional and district fugitive task forces. Since the 1980s, the USMS has combined its resources and expertise with local, state, and federal agencies to find and apprehend dangerous fugitives. Significant arrests: Aaron Michael Jones was arrested on May 20, in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, by members of the Middle Louisiana Task Force. He was wanted by the Baton Rouge Police Department for home invasion, domestic abuse battery, and child endangerment. Hayden Bates-Vellmure, Jordan Elijah Jackson, Allan Gilbert, and Patrick Biscoe were arrested on May 22, 2024, in Fort Worth, Texas, by members of the North Texas Fugitive Task Force. The four were wanted on charges relating to a drive-by shooting, which injured multiple children. The arrest team recovered nine handguns and one shotgun. Garron Stevenson was arrested on May 21, in St. Louis, by USMS personnel from the Eastern District of Missouri. He was wanted for the unlawful use of a weapon and first-degree murder after opening fire at a street racing event, striking seven people and killing a 14-year-old. An AR-15 style rifle and a revolver were recovered during the arrest. Michael Muldovan was arrested on Aug. 15, in Sterling, Virginia, by members of the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force. He was wanted in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, for first degree statutory rape and indecent liberties with a child. View ONS FY24 operational photographs here . View the ONS FY24 B-Roll video here . For more information on ONS FY24 visit USMarshals.gov .


title: Browning woman sentenced to more than three years in prison for meth trafficking on Blackfeet Indian Reservation

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: GREAT FALLS — A Browning woman who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation was sentenced on Thursday to three years and six months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today. The defendant, Cynthia Ann Valenzuela, 28, pleaded guilty in January to possession with intent to distribute meth. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that in the spring of 2023, Valenzuela was stopped in multiple vehicles containing meth and other evidence of distribution. In April 2023, Valenzuela was a passenger in a vehicle stopped for a traffic violation along with her co-defendant. Both occupants were arrested. More than 15 grams of meth was seized from the Valenzuela’s person while being booked into jail. A search of the vehicle also yielded evidence of distribution, including baggies and a digital scale. A month later, Valenzuela was in a different vehicle, again being driven by her co-defendant when they were again stopped by Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services for a traffic violation. The co-defendant was arrested and had a scale in his pocket. Law enforcement searched the vehicle and seized more than 170 grams of meth in a safe concealed as a book. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Blackfeet Law Enforcement Services, FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration and Glacier County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Former Executive Director of Southwest Regional Recreation Authority Admits to Embezzling Funds from Spearhead Trail System

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: ABINGDON, Va. – The former Executive Director of the Southwest Regional Recreation Authority (SRRA) pled guilty yesterday in federal court to bank fraud and embezzlement associated with her scheme to steal money intended for the Spearhead Trail System within the counties of Buchanan, Dickinson, Lee, Russell, Scott, Tazwell, Wise and the City of Norton. Melissa Slemp, Rose, 56, of Coeburn, Virginia, waived her right to be indicted and pled guilty to a two-count Information charging her with one count of bank fraud and one count of embezzlement. The SRRA was established in 2008 to oversee the development and management of the Spearhead Trail System. Spearhead Trails consists of three outdoor recreation tourism destinations within its complex. The SRRA receives approximately $1.1 million of general funds per year to operate, including federal funds. Rose was hired on July 23, 2019, as the Sales and Finance Manager for SRRA. The SRRA Board of Directors promoted Rose to Executive Director in October 2021. As Executive Director, Rose was responsible for the day-to-day operations of the SRRA and the Spearhead Trail System. She resigned from her position on February 3, 2023, following an investigation concerning embezzlement of SRRA funds. According to court documents, on January 23, 2023, the SRRA learned that Rose had used SRRA funds for her personal use. Specifically, Rose wrote $16,614 in checks drawn on the SRRA’s bank account that were purportedly signed by another SRRA board member. The checks were drawn on the SRRA First Bank and Trust Company account and were for the purchase of a residential property priced at $69,5000 with a $15,000 down payment. The property was for Rose’s personal use. In an attempt to hide her fraud, Rose logged her payments for the residential property into the SRRA’s QuickBooks account management system as purchases for “Tools” with “Land Lease for 5 Years on Mountainview Trail for Conex & SXS Storage” written in the description. She also prepared a fraudulent purchase order and a fraudulent lease for the property, again forging a signature of another SRRA employee. U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh and Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares made the announcement. The case was investigated by the Virginia State Police and the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Financial Fraud Investigator. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Suzanne Kerney-Quillen, a Senior Assistant Attorney General with the Virginia Attorney General’s Major Crimes and Emerging Threats Section, is prosecuting the case.


title: New Hampshire Man Admits Producing Child Sex Abuse Images

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that DAVID EDDY, 59, of Manchester, New Hampshire, has waived his right to be indicted and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to child exploitation offenses stemming from his sexual abuse of a young girl. According to court documents and statements made in court, in September 2022, Eddy sexually abused a minor girl, who was approximately five years old, and used his cell phone to take photographs of his sexual abuse of the victim. Analysis of Eddy’s phone revealed more than 150 child sexual abuse images and videos of the minor victim and other child victims of sexual abuse. On September 25, 2024, Eddy pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and one count of possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. A sentencing date is not scheduled. Eddy has been detained since October 2022, when he was arrested on related state charges. The state charges are pending. This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Simsbury Police Department, with the assistance of the Manchester (N.H.) Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anastasia King. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com .