title: British Reinsurance Brokers Resolve Bribery Investigations

component: Criminal Division

body_text: Tysers Insurance Brokers Limited (Tysers) and H.W. Wood Limited (H.W. Wood), two U.K.-based reinsurance brokers, have agreed to resolve investigations by the Justice Department into violations of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) arising from Tysers’ and H.W. Wood’s participation in a corrupt scheme to pay bribes to Ecuadorian government officials. Tysers and H.W. Wood each entered into a three-year deferred prosecution agreement (DPA) with the department in connection with a criminal information filed in the Southern District of Florida charging both companies with conspiracy to violate the anti-bribery provisions of the FCPA. “Tysers and H.W. Wood have admitted to engaging in a scheme to bribe multiple Ecuadorian government officials to earn tens of millions of dollars in illicit profits for themselves and their co-conspirators,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s resolutions, along with the numerous related individual cases, demonstrate the department’s steadfast commitment to hold both corporate and individual wrongdoers accountable for their crimes.” According to court documents, between 2013 and 2017, Tysers (known and doing business during the relevant period as Integro Insurance Brokers Limited) and H.W. Wood, through their employees and third-party agents, agreed to pay bribes totaling approximately $2.8 million to the then-chairman of two Ecuadorian state-owned insurance companies, Seguros Sucre S.A. and Seguros Rocafuerte S.A., and three other Ecuadorian officials to secure improper advantages in order to obtain and retain reinsurance business with the state-owned insurance companies. The bribes were paid to accounts held in Florida and elsewhere and effectuated through, among other things, emails sent from and meetings held in Florida. In furtherance of the scheme, Tysers paid approximately $20.3 million in commissions and H.W. Wood paid approximately $7.9 million in commissions and premium payments to the intermediary company that paid the bribes. Tysers retained commissions of approximately $10.5 million and H.W. Wood retained commissions of approximately $2.3 million. “Not only have Tysers and H.W. Wood broken any trust held in them by their clients and the market, they have eroded the process of fair and open competition when they paid bribes to foreign officials in exchange for securing lucrative contracts, and kickback for themselves,” said Chief Jim Lee of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). “We will continue to work with our partners to investigate FCPA violations to ensure honest corporations that playing by the rules pays better in the end.” “The defendants engaged in a multimillion-dollar bribery scheme to influence Ecuadorian government officials into doing business with their companies,” said Assistant Director Luis Quesada of FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “Today’s resolution shows the FBI will seek justice for violations of the FCPA to keep marketplaces and governments free from corruption worldwide.” Pursuant to the DPAs, Tysers and H.W. Wood have each agreed to continue to cooperate with the department in any ongoing or future criminal investigations relating to this conduct. In addition, Tysers and H.W. Wood have each agreed to continue to enhance their compliance programs and provide reports to the department regarding remediation and the implementation of compliance measures for the three-year term of the DPAs. Tysers Pursuant to its DPA, Tysers will pay a $36 million criminal penalty and administrative forfeiture of approximately $10.5 million. The department reached this resolution with Tysers based on a number of factors, including, among others, the nature and seriousness of the offense. Tysers received credit for its cooperation with the department’s investigation, which included (i) meeting the government’s requests promptly; (ii) making foreign-based employees available for interviews; (iii) collecting and producing voluminous relevant documents to the government, including documents located outside the United States; (iv) making several detailed factual presentations to the government and conducting and producing financial analyses of voluminous transactions; and (v) timely accepting responsibility and reaching a prompt resolution. Tysers engaged in timely remedial measures, which included, among other things, (i) placing employees involved in the misconduct on paid administrative leave; (ii) terminating all business and affiliations with the intermediary company involved in the misconduct; and (iii) comprehensively reviewing and enhancing its compliance program, including engaging additional resources with appropriate expertise to assist in evaluating and strengthening its compliance program, making enhancements to the governance and oversight of its compliance program, adding new compliance resources and personnel, updating and enhancing its antibribery and anticorruption policies, enhancing procedures related to onboarding and making payments to third-parties, and enhancing training programs. In light of these considerations, Tysers’ criminal penalty calculated under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines reflects a 25% reduction off the bottom of the applicable guidelines fine range. H.W. Wood Pursuant to its DPA, H.W. Wood agreed, based on the application of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, that the appropriate criminal penalty is $22.5 million and approximately $2.3 million is forfeitable to the United States. However, due to H.W. Wood’s financial condition and demonstrated inability to pay the penalty calculated under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, H.W. Wood and the department agreed, consistent with the department’s inability to pay guidance, that the appropriate criminal penalty is $508,000 and that H.W. Wood is unable to pay the forfeiture amount. The department reached this resolution with H.W. Wood based on a number of factors, including, among others, the nature and seriousness of the offense. H.W. Wood received credit for its cooperation with the department’s investigation, which included (i) meeting the government’s requests promptly; (ii) endeavoring to make foreign-based employees available for interviews; (iii) collecting and producing voluminous relevant documents to the government, including documents located outside the United States; (iv) making several detailed factual presentations to the government and conducting and producing financial analyses of voluminous transactions; and (v) timely accepting responsibility and reaching a prompt resolution. H.W. Wood engaged in timely remedial measures, which included, among other things, (i) terminating an employee involved in the misconduct; and (ii) enhancing its compliance program, including creating new compliance positions and compliance control improvements, implementing a process to ensure continuous monitoring and review of third-party relationships, and updating and enhancing its policies and procedures, as well as its compliance training and communications. In light of these considerations, H.W. Wood’s criminal penalty calculated under the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines reflects a 25% reduction off the bottom of the applicable guidelines fine range. The department has, to date, charged eight individuals in related matters: Juan Ribas Domenech, the former chairman of Seguros Sucre and Seguros Rocafuerte, pleaded guilty in the Southern District of Florida on Sept. 16, 2020, to money laundering conspiracy for his role in this and another scheme. Fernando Martinez Gomez, a financial advisor, pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of New York on March 24, 2022, to two counts, including conspiracy to commit money laundering for on his role in this and another scheme. Esteban Merlo Hidalgo, a co-conspirator and agent of Tysers and H.W. Wood, pleaded guilty in the Southern District of Florida on March 28 to four counts of engaging in transactions in criminally derived property obtained through his participation in this scheme. A federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida returned a seven-count indictment against two other defendants, Cristian Patricio Pintado Garcia and Luis Lenin Maldonado Matute, both of whom remain fugitives, on July 14, 2022, for their alleged roles in this scheme. Related to this investigation, on March 18, 2022, the department issued an FCPA Corporate Enforcement Policy declination to another U.K.-based reinsurance broker, Jardine Lloyd Thompson Group Holdings Ltd. (JLT), relating to bribes paid through a Florida-based intermediary to Ecuadorian government officials to obtain and retain contracts with Seguros Sucre. In connection with the FCPA Corporate Enforcement Policy declination, JLT disgorged approximately $29 million. Separately, the former CEO of JLT’s Colombian subsidiary, Felipe Moncaleano Botero, and two intermediaries, Jose Vicente Gomez Aviles and Roberto Heinert, each pleaded guilty in the Southern District of Florida to one count of money laundering conspiracy, on, respectively, Aug. 4, 2020, June 11, 2020, and Oct. 2, 2020. The IRS-CI Global Illicit Financial Team and the FBI’s International Corruption Squad in Miami are investigating the case. Trial Attorneys Katherine Raut and Anthony Scarpelli and Assistant Chief Alexander Kramer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and authorities in the United Kingdom, Panama, Ecuador, and Switzerland provided assistance in the matter. The Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting FCPA matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa . Tysers & HW Wood Information Tysers DPA HW Wood DPA


title: Utah Man Charged for Violent Threats Against Members of a Palestinian Rights Organization

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: A Utah man was arrested on Friday and charged for threatening a Palestinian rights organization. According to publicly filed court documents, between Oct. 31 and Nov. 2, Kevin Brent Buchanan, of Tooele, called the organization and left at least five voice messages stating, in part, “You’re the enemy,” “You’re being catalogued,” “You’re gonna die” and “You’re dead people walking.” Buchanan is charged with transmitting in interstate commerce a communication containing a threat to injure the person of another. If convicted, Buchanan faces a maximum of five years in prison and a fine not to exceed $250,000. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves for the District of Columbia and Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI Washington Field Office made the announcement. The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case, with significant assistance from the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah. Trial Attorney Sanjay Patel of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Risa Berkower for the District of Columbia’s Fraud, Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section are prosecuting the case, with assistance from James Donnelly of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Two Charlotte Men Charged With Orchestrating High-End Auto Thefts From South Carolina Businesses Appear In Court

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Aaron Duncan Hall, 31, a Charlotte man charged in the theft of numerous high-end vehicles from multiple businesses in South Carolina made his initial appearance in federal court this morning, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. The federal indictment charging Hall was unsealed last week and also charges Jacquarreus Rashon Clyburn, 26, of Charlotte, for conspiring with Hall to transport, possess, and sell stolen vehicles in interstate commerce, and interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle. Clyburn, who is also charged with possession of a stolen motor vehicle, made his initial federal court appearance last week and is scheduled to appear in court again tomorrow. U.S. Attorney King is joined in making today’s announcement by Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina, Ronnie Martinez, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in North Carolina and South Carolina, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD). According to allegations contained in Hall and Clyburn’s indictment, from December 2022 to April 2023, the men were part of a conspiracy to steal high-end vehicles from multiple businesses located throughout South Carolina. The indictment alleges that Hall and Clyburn and other co-conspirators generally stole the luxury vehicles late at night or into the early morning hours, using wire cutters to cut open large portions of security fences surrounding the targeted businesses. Once inside, the co-conspirators allegedly drove the vehicles off the lots through the openings of the security fences, often using key fobs left overnight in the vehicles. According to the indictment, Hall and Clyburn and their co-conspirators drove several of the stolen South Carolina vehicles back to Charlotte. The indictment further alleges that, over the course of the scheme, the co-conspirators stole at least 20 vehicles made by BMW, Mercedes-Benz, and Land Rover, and highly desired Dodge models such as Challengers and Chargers, worth over $900,000. As alleged in the indictment, Hall, Clyburn and their co-conspirators used a number of methods to avoid detection by law enforcement, to include using fake tags to transport the stolen vehicles, removing the stolen vehicles’ GPS navigation and tracking systems, listening to police radio transmissions, and fleeing from law enforcement to evade arrest. This is the second indictment filed in the Western District of North Carolina related to criminal activity stemming from high-end vehicle thefts. In August 2023, the U.S. Attorney’s Office brought charges against five individuals for their alleged involvement in the theft of dozens of luxury vehicles worth millions of dollars from car dealerships located across the United States. The charges in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The charge of conspiracy to transport, possess, and sell stolen vehicles in interstate commerce carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The charge of interstate transportation of a stolen motor vehicle and possession of a stolen vehicle each carry a statutory maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. U.S. Attorney King thanked FBI, HSI, and CMPD for their investigative efforts and recognized the contributions of many other state and local law enforcement partners involved in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys William Bozin and Daniel Ryan of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte are prosecuting the case.


title: Armed Carjacker Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison

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

body_text: A Dallas man who carjacked a woman at gunpoint was sentenced last week to 15 years in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton. Randy Hordge, 22, pleaded guilty in January 2023 to carjacking. He was sentenced Friday by U.S. District Judge Sam A. Lindsay. “This is another example of the ATF’s and our U.S. Attorney’s Office’s commitment to aggressively pursuing those who commit violent crimes in Dallas,” said U.S. Attorney Simonton. “Reducing violent crime is not enough—we will not rest as long as any citizen is victimized in this way. I am proud that this case serves as an example of that commitment.” “ATF remains vigilant and steadfast in our fight against violent crime in North Texas. ATF is grateful to the United States Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners who work tirelessly to pursue the worst of the worst lawbreakers who commit these heinous crimes. Mr. Hordge now has 15 years to think about and regret his actions,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey C. Boshek II. According to plea papers, on October 7, 2020 Mr. Hordge – two hours after committing another armed carjacking where he pulled a victim out of her vehicle by her hair – pointed a firearm at a female in a residential driveway and forced her into her car. Mr. Hordge drove off with the individual in the car begging for her life. Mr. Hordge eventually pulled the car over and told the individual that she had five seconds to run or that she would be shot. The carjacking was reported to police and Mr. Hordge was later arrested and identified. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives’ Dallas Field Division conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gary Tromblay prosecuted the case.


title: Reno Resident Sentenced To 10 Years In Prison For Possession With Intent To Distribute Fentanyl And Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: RENO – A Reno man was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Miranda M. Du to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release for possessing fentanyl and methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to another person. Alan James Morgan, also known as “AJ Morgan,” 38, pleaded guilty in August 2023 to one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Morgan was sentenced on November 13, 2023. According to court documents, law enforcement identified Morgan as a runner for a drug trafficking organization operating out of Woodland, California. On January 12, 2022, during a traffic stop of Morgan’s vehicle, Morgan ignored law enforcement’s orders and fled in his vehicle. During the car pursuit, Morgan tossed a backpack containing a “brick” of methamphetamine and 1,000 counterfeit M30 fentanyl pills out of the vehicle. He then crashed the vehicle into a fence, causing the vehicle to catch fire, and fled on foot. Law enforcement pursued Morgan and arrested him in a nearby restaurant parking lot. Subsequent searches of Morgan’s storage unit and residence led to the seizure of several hundred counterfeit M30 fentanyl pills and approximately four pounds of methamphetamine. In total, law enforcement seized 1,011 grams of fentanyl and 3,343 grams of methamphetamine. United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement. The Tri-NET Narcotic Task Force, DEA, and Regional Narcotics Unit investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Andolyn Johnson prosecuted the case. If you are aware of controlled substance violations in your community — which may include the growing, manufacture, distribution or trafficking of controlled substances — please submit your anonymous tip through the DEA Tip Line at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip . ###


title: Waggaman Man Sentenced for Federal Gun Offense

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – On November 15, 2023, U.S. District Judge Sarah Vance sentenced DEVYN ALLEN to 31 months in the Bureau of Prisons for violating the Federal Gun Control Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. ALLEN was charged on December 3, 2021, in a one-count indictment with possession of a Springfield Model XD, nine-millimeter handgun while being a convicted felon. ALLEN will serve 31 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. U. S. Attorney Duane A. Evans praised the work of the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Louisiana State Police. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Rachal Cassagne of the Narcotics Unit.


title: Illegal Possession of a Firearm Results in Federal Prison Sentence for Lake Charles Man

body_text: LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that a Lake Charles man with a lengthy criminal history, was sentenced today for illegally possessing a firearm. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced Dewayne Eugene Miller , 42, to 72 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. Miller pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person on May 23, 2023. On June 2, 2022, officers with the Lake Charles Police Department were dispatched to a residence on 12 th Street in Lake Charles, Louisiana. Upon arrival, the officer observed Miller walking away from the residence and toward another one on the same street while holding a handgun. The officer ordered Miller to drop the gun. Miller tossed the gun under the porch of another residence and put up his hands and was taken into custody. At the guilty plea hearing, Miller admitted to knowingly possessing the Charter 2000, Model Undercover .38 caliber handgun even though he had previously been convicted of numerous felony crimes. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Lake Charles Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. McCoy. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn . # # #


title: New York Men Convicted of Violent Attempted Theft of Drugs from Rangeley Home

body_text: BANGOR, Maine: Two New York men were found guilty today of conspiring to commit Hobbs Act robbery in connection with a violent home invasion in Rangeley in 2016. The verdict came after a three-day jury trial in the U.S. District Court in Bangor with Judge Nancy Torresen presiding. According to evidence presented during the trial, in July 2016, Andre Muller (aka “Dre Muller”) , 53, and Robert Holland (aka “Kurt Holland”) , 43, along with three other men, developed a plan to steal controlled substances from a Rangeley residence. On July 26, 2016, Muller traveled from New York City with two co-conspirators, meeting up with Holland and another co-conspirator at a property just outside of Rangeley. Muller, Holland and the three other co-conspirators discussed how to carry out the robbery. On July 28, 2016, two co-conspirators entered the Rangeley residence armed with knives with the intent to take the controlled substances. During the commission of the robbery, the intended target of the robbery shot and killed one of the co-conspirators. Muller and Holland had previously been convicted following a five-day jury trial that concluded August 10, 2022. Judge Torresen granted a motion for a new trial, however, based on evidence of juror prejudgment. Muller and Holland both face up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. They will be sentenced after the completion of presentence investigation reports by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. A third defendant in this case ( Hector Munoz, 56, Florida ) pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Maine State Police; the Rangeley Police Department; the U.S. Border Patrol; and the Carrabassett Valley Police Department investigated the case, with assistance provided by the Maine Office of the Attorney General. ###


title: Hurricane Man Pleads Guilty to Bank Fraud

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Paul Richard Spurlock, 66, of Hurricane, pleaded guilty today to bank fraud. Spurlock admitted that he embezzled approximately $106,500 from a fraternal organization’s historic charitable care home by using his position as its board’s treasurer. According to court documents and statements made in court, the Grand Lodge of the Independent Order of Odd Fellows - West Virginia had operated the Odd Fellows and Rebekah Home in Elkins beginning in the early 1900s. Over its history, the institution provided housing and care for orphans, widows, seniors and people with disabilities. Spurlock had been the treasurer of the home’s board of directors for several years when he lost his seat on the board in October 2018. Spurlock admitted that from on or about July 8, 2015, to on or about January 22, 2019, he embezzled approximately $106,500 from the Odd Fellows Home. Spurlock falsely told his wife, who was acting as the home’s bookkeeper, that the home’s board of directors had approved a loan for their family. Spurlock admitted that as part of his scheme, he caused an unauthorized check for $4,000 from the Odd Fellows Home’s account to be issued to his wife on January 22, 2019, and deposited into their shared Huntington bank account. Spurlock further admitted that he signed at least 33 unauthorized Odd Fellows Home checks made payable to his wife and deposited into their joint account, and used an authorized signatory’s signature stamp on each check without his wife’s knowledge. The Odd Fellows Home closed and was auctioned off in 2022 because of financial difficulties. Spurlock is scheduled to be sentenced on March 18, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, five years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine. Spurlock also owes $106,500 in restitution. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan T. Storage is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-172. ###


title: New Orleans Man Indicted for Distribution of Fentanyl  and Weapons Offenses

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that KENTRELL HUBBARD , age 24, of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged on November 17, 2023, in a three-count indictment for distribution of fentanyl and violations of the Federal Gun Control Act. According to the indictment, HUBBARD is charged in Count 1 with distribution of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). He is charged in Count 2 with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). He is charged in Count 3 with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). According to the indictment, HUBBARD has a prior federal felony conviction for conspiracy to transport vehicles across state lines. If convicted of Count 1, HUBBARD faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000 fine, and at least three years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 2, he faces a minimum of five years up to a maximum sentence of life in prison, which must run consecutive to any other sentence, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to five years of supervised release. If convicted of Count 3, he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three years of supervised release. Each count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney David Berman of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Undocumented Immigrant Previously Convicted of Involuntary Manslaughter

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – A Guatemalan man was sentenced today to 4 years in prison for illegally reentering the United States. According to court documents, Jose Gonzalez Flores, 33, was unlawfully present in the United States when he killed a four-year-old child in a car wreck in August 2018. Gonzalez Flores was driving a pickup truck when he struck the rear of a sedan that belonged to a family of four. The collision caused the death of the family’s youngest son. Immediately after the wreck, Gonzalez Flores got out of his truck, surveyed the scene, and fled. He was arrested a few days later, and in April 2019 was convicted of involuntary manslaughter and drug possession in Chesterfield County Circuit Court. The state judge sentenced Gonzalez Flores to 20 years’ imprisonment, with all but three-and-a-half years suspended. The judge also ordered Gonzalez Flores to not illegally reenter the country following his term of imprisonment and subsequent deportation. Gonzalez Flores was deported to Guatemala in January 2022. One year later, he illegally reentered the United States without admission, inspection, or parole and was located within the Eastern District of Virginia. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Patrick Divver, Acting Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Washington, D.C., made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge Robert E. Payne. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Day and Kashan Pathan prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-88.


title: Honduran National Indicted  for Illegal Re-Entry

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – ALEX SALOMON REYES-CHAVEZ , age 43, was indicted on November 17, 2023 for illegal reentry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to the indictment, ALEX SALOMON REYES-CHAVEZ , (“ REYES-CHAVEZ ”) reentered the United States after being previously deported on March 5, 2012. On October 24, 2023, federal authorities arrested REYES-CHAVEZ in Gretna, Louisiana as he was leaving the courthouse. If convicted, REYES-CHAVEZ faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Man Indicted for Violating the Federal Controlled Substances Act

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on Friday, November 17, 2023, KEVIN TYLER , age 46, was indicted for possession with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of cocaine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). TYLER was pulled over during a traffic stop in Lafourche Parish. As a result of the traffic stop, Louisiana State Police Troopers recovered 11.7 kilograms of cocaine hidden within the engine compartment of the sports utility vehicle that he was driving . If convicted, TYLER faces a minimum term of ten (10) years up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, at least five (5) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Louisiana State Police, and Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.


title: Lodge Grass man admits assaulting dating partner

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: BILLINGS —A Lodge Grass man today admitted to assaulting and injuring his girlfriend on the Crow Indian Reservation, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Brian Allen Kruger, 61, pleaded guilty to assault of a dating or intimate partner resulting in substantial injury. Kruger faces a maximum of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The court set sentencing for March 20, 2024. Kruger remains detained pending further proceedings. In court documents, the government alleged that on Feb. 28, 2021, Kruger assaulted his girlfriend, identified as Jane Doe, while at a house in Lodge Grass, on the Crow Indian Reservation. Kruger and Jane Doe were drinking and talking and got into an argument. The argument escalated, and Kruger punched Jane Doe in the face and knocked her off the chair where she was sitting. Kruger continued hitting Jane Doe as she headed down a hallway. While Kruger went to the kitchen to get some more vodka, Jane Doe escaped out of a window and ran to a neighbor’s house. The neighbor called 911, and Jane Doe was treated for injuries at the Indian Health Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amanda L. Myers and Lori Harper Suek are prosecuting the case. The Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation. XXX


title: School Occupational Therapist Charged With Sexual Exploitation Of A Child And Receipt And Distribution Of Child Pornography

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and James Smith, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the arrest of MICHAEL MEYERS. MEYERS is charged with sexual exploitation of a child and receipt and distribution of child pornography. MEYERS was presented today before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy in White Plains federal court. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Michael Meyers’s alleged conduct is disturbing, especially given that Meyers was entrusted with the care of children for many years as an occupational therapist at a school. This Office will do everything in our power to protect the children of our community, and we will use every tool available to law enforcement to investigate and prosecute those who sexually exploit children.” FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said: “Meyers allegedly used an online communication app to receive sexually explicit pictures from a minor child. The fact Meyers was employed in a school makes this alleged crime even more horrific. Both the bad guys and the American public need to know the FBI is committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society, and anyone attempting to sexually exploit a child can expect to end up in handcuffs and face serious punishment in the criminal justice system.” According to the allegations in the Complaint filed in White Plains federal court and unsealed today: [1] A review of MEYERS’s phone revealed the existence of communications between MEYERS and a 16-year-old minor (“Victim-1”) on the online application Discord. In connection with these communications, Victim-1 sent MEYERS several sexually explicit photos of Victim-1 at MEYERS’s request. Records received by law enforcement indicate that MEYERS was employed as an occupational therapist at a school in Oceanside, New York, from on or about September 1, 1998. * * * MEYERS, 62, of Port Jervis, New York, is charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a child, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison, and one count of receipt and distribution of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The minimum and maximum potential penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. Williams praised the efforts of the FBI’s Hudson Valley Resident Agency’s Safe Streets Task Force, the El Dorado Police Department, the Port Jervis Police Department, the St. John’s County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the New York State Police, and the Putnam County Sheriff’s Office. He added that the investigation is ongoing. Any individuals who believe they have information that may be relevant to this investigation should contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or https://tips.fbi.gov . The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Shaun E. Werbelow is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: Chandler Man Sentenced to Over 7 Years for Voluntary Manslaughter

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Walter Lee Riggins, Jr., 28, of Chandler, Arizona, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge Michael T. Liburdi to 87 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. The defendant pleaded guilty on August 21, 2023, to Voluntary Manslaughter. On December 27, 2020, Riggins, a member of the Gila River Indian Community, shot the victim, killing him. The investigation in this case was conducted by the Gila River Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution was handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Raynette Logan and Vinnie Lichvar, District of Arizona, Phoenix. CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00553-PHX-MTL RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-183_Riggins # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Versailles Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm and Explosive as Convicted Felon

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Versailles, Ky., man, Bryan Carroll, 46, pleaded guilty on Monday, before Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, to two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and one count of carrying an explosive during the commission of a federal felony offense. According to his plea agreement, on March 25, 2021, law enforcement was notified that Carroll was enroute to the University of Kentucky Hospital and that had an active arrest warrant. Law enforcement met Carroll outside the Emergency Department, where he was taken into custody. During a subsequent search of Carroll and his vehicle, law enforcement located a total of eight firearms, including a sawed-off shotgun, four explosive devices, and one improvised explosive bomb. During an interview, Carroll admitted to having the firearms on him when he was arrested and acknowledged the additional firearms in his vehicle. Carroll also acknowledged the “fireworks” in his vehicle and admitted to constructing the metal can devices, which contained nails. Carroll told law enforcement he had additional destructive devices at his home, and he possessed a large quantity of explosive materials. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for Carroll’s home where they located two additional firearms along with six additional improvised explosive bombs. Carroll admitted that he possessed the firearms and explosives and that he was prohibited from possessing the devices and firearms, based on a prior felony conviction. Carroll had previously been convicted of complicity to trafficking a controlled substance, First Degree in the Woodford Circuit Court, in December 2015. Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division; Michael E. Stansbury, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office; Chief Michael Murray, Versailles Police Department; Chief Lawrence Weathers, Lexington Police Department; and Chief Joe Monroe, University of Kentucky Police Department; jointly announced the guilty plea. The investigation was conducted by ATF, FBI, Versailles Police Department, the Lexington Police Department, and the University of Kentucky Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco Villalobos prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. Carroll is scheduled to be sentenced on March 1, 2024. He faces a maximum of 10 years in prison for the firearm charges and 10 years consecutive in prison for the explosive charge. However, any sentence will be imposed by the Court, after its consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal sentencing statutes. This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s “Project Safe Neighborhoods” Program (PSN), which is a nationwide, crime reduction strategy aimed at decreasing violent crime in communities. It involves a comprehensive approach to public safety — one that includes investigating and prosecuting crimes, along with prevention and reentry efforts. In the Eastern District of Kentucky, U.S. Attorney Shier coordinates PSN efforts in cooperation with various federal, state, and local law enforcement officials. — END —


title: Man Indicted for Fake Bomb Threats

component: USAO - Colorado

body_text: DENVER—The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Matthew Cook, age 33, has been indicted by a federal grand jury on two counts of 18 U.S.C. § 1038(a)(1) for falsely conveying on two occasions that there was a bomb at a store in Parker, Colorado. According to the indictment, on or about July 26, 2023, Cook falsely conveyed that there was a bomb at a grocery store in Parker, Colorado. Then, on or about August 17, 2023, Cook falsely conveyed that there was a bomb at a big box store in Parker, Colorado. This case is the result of investigative coordination between the Parker Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Cramer-Babycz. The charges contained in the indictment are allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Case Number: 23-cr-0448-CNS


title: Sharon Resident Sentenced to 36 Months in Prison for Cocaine and Fentanyl Trafficking

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, PA – Jammar Shelton was sentenced to 36 months in prison for cocaine and fentanyl trafficking, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. Shelton, age 44 of Sharon, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon. Judge Bissoon ordered Shelton to serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Prior to sentencing, Shelton pled guilty to conspiring to distribute fentanyl and cocaine between June 2020 and June 2021, and to possessing cocaine with intent to distribute within 1,000 feet of a school and public housing on May 17, 2021. Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin C. Dobkin and Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pennsylvania Attorney General’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Lawrence County Drug Task Force, the Mercer County Drug Task Force, the New Castle Police Department, the Sharon Police Department, the Hermitage Police Department, and the Farrell Police Department led the investigation resulting in the convictions and sentence in this case. This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.


title: Former Bangor Man Sentenced to 4 Years for Role in Penobscot and Aroostook County Drug Trafficking

body_text: BANGOR, Maine: A former Bangor man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for his role in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Christopher Coty , 43, to 48 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. According to court records, between January 2018 and December 2021, Coty and others trafficked methamphetamine and fentanyl in Penobscot and Aroostook counties and elsewhere. Coty knowingly and intentionally joined and participated in the conspiracy. Coty is the ninth participant involved in the northern Maine conspiracy to be sentenced. Eight of the remaining 12 defendants have pleaded guilty: BANGOR, Maine: A former Bangor man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Bangor for his role in a conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Lance E. Walker sentenced Christopher Coty , 43, to 48 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. According to court records, between January 2018 and December 2021, Coty and others trafficked methamphetamine and fentanyl in Penobscot and Aroostook counties and elsewhere. Coty knowingly and intentionally joined and participated in the conspiracy. Coty is the ninth participant involved in the northern Maine conspiracy to be sentenced. Eight of the remaining 12 defendants have pleaded guilty: Sentenced: Andrew Adams (32, Aroostook County) – 10 years Wayne Smith (33, Bangor) – 85 months Danielle McBreairty (33, Glenburn) – 20 years Blaine Footman (37, Bangor) – 5 years Nicole Footman (40, Holden) – 3 years Dwight Gary, Jr. (53, Medway) – Time served Matthew Catalano (37, Penobscot County) – 165 months Thomas Hammond (25, Charleston) – 84 months Christopher Coty (43, Bangor) – 4 years Pleaded Guilty: Sarah McBreairty (35, Dixmont) John Miller (22, Caribou) Shelby Loring (28, Bangor) Joshua Young (48, Presque Isle) Joshua Jerrell (29, Orrington) Carol Gordon (53, Bangor) Jason Cunrod (42, Caribou) James King (54, Caribou) The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Maine Drug Enforcement Agency investigated the case. Assistance was provided by the police departments in Orono, Bangor, Brewer, Caribou, Presque Isle and Houlton. U.S. Attorney Darcie McElwee also recognized the cooperation and coordination provided by the Maine State Attorney General’s Office and the Aroostook County District Attorney’s Office. Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces: This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. ###


title: Thurmont Man Sentenced to 18 Years in Federal Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a Child

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore , Maryland – U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Jose Alexander Diaz-Rodriguez, age 23, of Thurmont, today to 18 years in federal prison, followed by 25 years of supervised release, for sexual exploitation of a child, after he broke into his neighbor’s home and took sexually explicit photographs of a child. Judge Bennett also ordered that, upon his release from prison, Diaz-Rodriguez will be required to register as a sex offender in the places where he resides, where he is an employee, and where he is a student, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (“SORNA”). The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryeshia Holley of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Chief Greg Eyler of the Thurmont Police Department; Chief Jason Lando of the Frederick Police Department; and Frederick County State’s Attorney J. Charles Smith, III. According to court documents, on July 26, 2021, Diaz-Rodriguez broke into his neighbor’s home and entered the bedroom where Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 were sleeping. Diaz-Rodriguez got into bed with Jane Doe 1, who was eight years old, and produced a series of four images intending to create sexually explicit images of Jane Doe 1. DNA from Diaz-Rodriguez was found on swabs from Jane Doe 1. Jane Doe 1’s mother heard a noise and went into the room where she found Diaz-Rodriguez on the ground next to the bed. Diaz-Rodriguez fled and was arrested a short time later at his residence. A search warrant executed at his residence and his cell phone was seized. A forensic examination of the phone located over 1,000 files depicting the sexual abuse of children, including the four images of Jane Doe 1, which Diaz-Rodriguez had deleted prior to police arrival. Diaz-Rodriguez further admitted that he distributed child sex abuse material on his social media account, specifically an image documenting the sexual abuse of a child. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page. United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the FBI, the Thurmont Police Department, the Frederick Police Department and the Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation and prosecution. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joyce King, who prosecuted the federal case. For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-childhood and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Piatt County, Illinois, Farmer Sentenced to 42 Months in Prison for Bank Fraud

component: USAO - Illinois, Central

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Ill. –James R. R. Williams, 64, formerly of rural Cisco, Illinois, and now residing in Fort Meyers, Florida, was sentenced on November 17, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Collen R. Lawless to 42 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution to two central Illinois banks following his convictions for four counts of bank fraud. At the sentencing hearing, which took place over two days, the government presented evidence that during the 2016 growing season Williams obtained a loan of approximately $4.6 million from participating banks First Security Bank and Gifford State Bank on behalf of his farming operation, RJW Williams Farms, Inc. The loans were collateralized by Williams’s assets, including grain. Williams defrauded the banks by concealing grain sales from the banks and by instructing employees of Archer Daniels Midland grain elevators in Niantic and Weldon, Illinois, to issue checks in his son’s name, without his son’s knowledge, which were then deposited into an account held jointly by Williams and his son. Williams then used the checks for his own benefit. Judge Lawless found that between October 20, 2014, and February 1, 2017, Williams caused ADM to issue approximately twenty-two checks totaling $540,505.35 to his son for grain that was actually sold by Williams and was collateral for Williams’s outstanding loan. Judge Lawless also determined that Williams knowingly violated a court order in Piatt County Circuit Court that was intended to freeze grain sale disbursements following a citation to discover assets hearing and that the bankruptcy petition filed by RJW Williams Farms, Inc., and signed by Williams as president contained numerous false assertions. A federal grand jury first returned an indictment against Williams in June 2019, and he pleaded guilty to the four bank fraud counts in May 2023. Williams faced statutory penalties of a maximum twenty-year term of imprisonment, a maximum $1 million fine, and a maximum five-year term of supervised release on the bank fraud counts. “This sentencing reflects the FDIC OIG’s commitment to bring to justice those who defraud banks and use stolen funds for their own personal gain,” said Special Agent in Charge Vincent R. Zehme, of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG). “We will continue to work with our law enforcement and DOJ partners to investigate and hold those accountable who commit such financial crimes and threaten to undermine the integrity of our Nation’s financial institutions.” “Today’s sentencing sends a strong message that the bankruptcy system requires full, accurate and complete disclosures, and those who fail to do so will be held accountable,” stated Nancy J. Gargula, U.S. Trustee for Central Illinois, Southern Illinois, and Indiana (Region 10). “I am grateful to U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris and our law enforcement partners for their strong commitment to uphold the integrity of the bankruptcy system.” The matter was referred by the U.S. Trustee and investigated by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation -- Office of Inspector General in collaboration with the Central District of Illinois Bankruptcy Fraud Working Group, coordinated by U.S. Trustee Gargula. The United States Trustee Program is the component of the Justice Department that protects the integrity of the bankruptcy system by overseeing case administration and litigating to enforce the bankruptcy laws. Region 10 is headquartered in Indianapolis, with additional offices in South Bend, Ind., and Peoria, Ill. The case investigation was conducted by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation -- Office of Inspector General. Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eugene L. Miller and Douglas J. Quivey, along with Assistant U.S. Attorney William J. Lynch, represented the government in the prosecution.


title: San Antonio Man Indicted for Defrauding Federal COVID-Era Programs

component: Criminal - Criminal Fraud Section

body_text: SAN ANTONIO – A federal grand jury in San Antonio returned an indictment charging a San Antonio man with 11 counts related to wire fraud and money laundering. According to court documents, James Michael Bergeron, 42, allegedly devised a scheme to secure funds made available through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and the Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF), both of which were COVID-era programs designed to provide relief to small business owners. The indictment alleges Bergeron secured the funds by making misrepresentations about the number of employees employed, as well as the average monthly payroll paid out, by various entities he controlled. In securing the RRF money, it also reports that Bergeron made misrepresentations about the annual revenue for one of these entities. Based on these misrepresentations, Bergeron, allegedly through the various entities, received millions of dollars. He then spent the funds on various unauthorized items, including real estate, vehicles and retail investment products. Bergeron is charged with five counts of wire fraud, one count of false statement, three counts of engaging in a monetary transaction over $10,000 using criminally derived proceeds, and two counts of concealment money laundering. The defendant made his initial court appearance Monday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Chestney of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Texas. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of thirty years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza of the Western District of Texas made the announcement. The Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General and IRS Criminal Investigation are investigating the case. Western District of Texas Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Simmons and Bill Harris and Trial Attorney Ariel Glasner from the U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Division, Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Federal Charges Filed After "Fentanyl Press" Found in Gladstone Apartment

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—An 18-year-old drug trafficker with ties to a recent fatal overdose is facing federal charges after he was caught transporting several packages of powdered fentanyl and a 20-ton shop press used to manufacture fentanyl bricks was found in his apartment. Cristhian Martinez, 18, of Gladstone, Oregon, has been charged by criminal complaint with possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, in September 2023, members of the Clackamas County Interagency Task Force (CCITF) were called to investigate a fatal overdose in Clackamas County. While processing the scene, investigators discovered numerous counterfeit M30 Oxycodone pills believed to be manufactured with fentanyl. Martinez was soon identified as the person who sold fentanyl to the deceased victim’s dealer. On November 16, 2023, investigators located Martinez traveling north from California into Oregon, followed his vehicle and conducted a traffic stop in Gladstone. During a K-9 sweep of Martinez’s vehicle, investigators found multiple concealed packages containing more than 1,000 grams of compressed fentanyl. Later the same day, investigators executed a federal search warrant on Martinez’s Gladstone apartment where they located a fentanyl manufacturing and distribution operation. They seized additional quantities of fentanyl, a 20-ton shop press used to produce bricks of fentanyl powder, ten handguns, an AR-15 style assault rifle, ammunition, and other materials consistent with drug trafficking. Martinez made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. He was ordered detained pending further court proceedings. This case was investigated by the FBI, CCITF, and Westside Interagency Narcotics team (WIN). It is being prosecuted by Scott M. Kerin, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. CCITF, led by the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, works to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking organizations operating in and around Clackamas County, and reduce illegal drugs and related crimes throughout the community. The task force is comprised of members of the Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office, Canby Police Department, Oregon State Police, FBI, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). WIN is a Washington County-based interagency drug interdiction task force that includes members from the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Beaverton and Hillsboro Police Departments, Oregon National Guard Counter Drug Program, FBI, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and HSI. A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Jury Convicts Three Men in Murder for Hire Scheme

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: NASHVILLE – A federal jury returned guilty verdicts against three men indicted in a murder-for-hire scheme, announced United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis for the Middle District of Tennessee. Erik Maund, 48, and Bryon Brockway, 48, both of Austin, Texas and Adam Carey, 32, of Richlands, North Carolina were convicted of murder-for-hire with death resulting after a two-and-a-half-week jury trial. Brockway and Carey were also convicted of conspiracy to commit kidnapping and kidnapping with death resulting. A fourth member of the conspiracy, Gilad Peled, 49, of Austin, Texas had previously pleaded guilty to the same charges and agreed to cooperate with the United States by testifying at trial. According to evidence admitted at the trial, Maund had previously had an extramarital affair with Holly Williams of Nashville. In March of 2020, William Lanway, also of Nashville, attempted to extort Maund about his affair with Williams. At that time Maund was an executive for his family’s automobile dealerships in Austin, Texas. Maund hired Peled to respond to the extortion attempt. Peled, in turn, hired Brockway and Carey to go to Nashville to investigate Lanway and Williams. Peled testified at trial that when Lanway’s efforts to extort Maund persisted, Maund agreed to pay Brockway and Carey $100,000 each to murder Lanway and Williams. The evidence showed that Maund wired Peled, who acted as the middleman for the scheme, $150,000 on March 12, 2020, the day the murders occurred. On the same day, Brockway and Carey kidnapped Williams and Lanway from outside of Williams’ apartment complex in West Nashville and drove them to a nearby construction site where they were murdered. The victims’ bodies were found on the morning of March 13, 2020 inside Williams’ vehicle. Over the course of the next year, Maund wired Peled an additional $900,000 as payment for the scheme and Peled withdrew cash to pay Brockway and Carey for their roles. “We are committed to aggressively prosecuting violent crime in Middle Tennessee and I am very pleased that the men responsible for these murders have finally been held accountable for their deplorable actions,” said United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. “I want to commend the detectives of the Metro Nashville Police Department and agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation whose thorough investigation made this outcome possible.” “Those who devalue life need to know that when you break the law, you will be brought to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Douglas DePodesta of the FBI Memphis Field Office. “This conviction should send a clear message that the FBI and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to keeping our citizens safe, and nothing will stop us from accomplishing that mission. We will continue to combine our resources and share our expertise to target those who hope to commit similar heinous acts.” “This investigation began with the discovery of two murder victims, Holly Williams and William Lanway, inside a vehicle off a construction road in West Nashville on Good Friday 2020,” Metro Nashville Police Chief John Drake said. “Months of outstanding investigative work, led by Detectives Patrick Cuthbertson and David Willover, provided multiple leads that drew our attention to other states. Realizing that this elaborate criminal case reached far outside of Nashville, our team enlisted the help of the FBI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. It is that partnership that brought justice for the victims in federal court last week, and a partnership that will continue to hold violent criminals accountable in the future.” Maund, Brockway, and Carey all face a mandatory life sentence in federal prison. They will be set for separate sentencing hearings sometime in 2024. Peled will also be sentenced in 2024 where U.S. District Judge William L. Campbell, Jr. will take his cooperation into consideration as part of his ultimate sentence. This case was investigated by the FBI and the Metro Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert McGuire and Brooke Farzad prosecuted the case. #####


title: Five Sentenced to Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine from California to Southern Minnesota

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – Five individuals have been sentenced to prison for trafficking methamphetamine that was shipped through the mail from California to Austin, Minnesota, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, between the fall of 2021 and the summer of 2022, Michael Anthony Ortiz, 44, of San Jose, California, Esteban Ambriz, Jr., 22, of Austin, Lori Beth Luna, 32, of Austin, Angela Dawn Martin, 26, of Austin, and Kyria Idarmis Bautista Roldan, 34, of Albert Lea, engaged in a conspiracy to traffic methamphetamine from California to Austin, Minnesota. Ortiz, who was based in California, would send packages of high purity methamphetamine to Ambriz, Luna, Martin, Roldan, and other members involved in the conspiracy, to distribute throughout the Austin area. All five defendants pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Roldan was sentenced on November 16, 2023, to 100 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Ortiz was sentenced on October 18, 2023, to 180 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Martin was sentenced on September 27, 2023, to 96 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Ambriz and Luna were sentenced on August 22, 2023, to 120 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release and 108 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, respectively. U.S. District Judge Ann D. Montgomery imposed the sentences. This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Southeast Minnesota Violent Crime Enforcement Team, South Central Drug Task Force, Cannon River Drug Task Force, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S Marshals Service, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Freeborn County Sheriff’s Office, Austin Police Department, and San Jose Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas M. Hollenhorst prosecuted the case.


title: Former co-owners of Matanuska Diesel charged with Clean Air Act violations

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging two Wasilla men and their auto shop with conspiring to violate the Clean Air Act. According to court documents, Mackenzie Spurlock, 28, and Brendan Trevors, 26, through their business Matanuska Diesel LLC, conspired to remove required air pollution control equipment and tamper with federally mandated monitoring devices on diesel vehicles in violation of the Clean Air Act from July 2020 to June 2022. The indictment explains that Spurlock and Trevors performed illegal “deleting” and “tuning” as part of the conspiracy. The act of removing emission control systems is known as “deleting” and the act of reprogramming the on-board diagnostic systems is known as “tuning.” These unlawful modifications result in a significant increase in pollutants emitted by the vehicle. Spurlock, Trevors and Matanuska Diesel LLC are charged with one count of conspiracy to violate the Clean Air Act, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371, and nine counts of tampering with a Clean Air Act monitoring device, in violation of 42 U.S.C. § 7413(c)(2)(C). The defendants will make their initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kyle F. Reardon of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, they face 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. U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska made the announcement. The EPA Criminal Investigation Alaska Division are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Ivers and EPA Regional Criminal Enforcement Counsel Karla Perrin are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. UPDATE: A previous version of the story stated the grand jury returned the indictment "today" on Nov. 20, 2023. That is inaccurate and the word "today" has been deleted. ###


title: Portland Area Man Charged with Coercing and Enticing a Minor Online

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A transient man residing in Tigard, Oregon is facing federal charges for using social media to coerce and entice an 11-year-old child into engaging in criminal sexual activity. Jakob Joshua Stickney, 25, has been charged by criminal complaint with coercing and enticing a minor. According to court documents, in October 2023, the FBI and Portland Police Bureau (PPB) began investigating Stickney after receiving information that he had been engaging in sexually explicit communications with a 11-year-old child on Discord, an instant messaging social media application. On multiple occasions, Stickney, who used by the names “UNHOLY,” “unholy_xx2,” or “Unholy_22x” online, attempted to arrange an in-person meetup with the child. On at least one occasion, Stickney went in person to the child’s house where he was observed and confronted by the child’s mother, who reported the contact to law enforcement. Stickney was located November 17, 2023, in Tigard and arrested without incident. He made his first appearance in federal court today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge and was ordered detained pending further court proceedings. This case was investigated by the FBI and PPB. It is being prosecuted by Eliza Carmen Rodriguez, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. Anyone who has information about possible crimes committed by Stickney, or the physical or online exploitation of any children, are encouraged to call the FBI at (503) 224-4181 or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov . This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . A criminal complaint is only an accusation of a crime, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Former San Mateo Resident Pleads Guilty To Embezzling More Than $1.1 Million From San Francisco Law Firm

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: SAN FRANCISCO – Jairo Tomas Santos pleaded guilty in San Francisco federal court today to bank fraud, announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp. The plea was accepted by the Honorable William Alsup, U.S. District Judge. In pleading guilty, Santos, 42, formerly of San Mateo, Calif., admitted to embezzling more than $1.1 million from his employer, a San Francisco-based law firm, where Santos worked as the office manager. According to his plea agreement, Santos began embezzling from his employer in March of 2016 and continued with his scheme through February 2023. As part of the scheme, Santos obtained checks from the victim law firm, filled out the payee line of those checks, addressing them to “Jairo Santos,” and signed each check with the signature of the law firm’s senior partner even though Santos was not authorized to do so. Santos then deposited these checks into his personal checking accounts at Wells Fargo Bank. Santos admitted to depositing approximately 806 fraudulent and unauthorized checks from the victim law firm made payable to Santos into his personal checking accounts. The total value of these unauthorized deposits was approximately $1,191,683. Santos deposited these checks from the victim law firm knowing that the payments were not authorized by the firm or its senior partner. A federal grand jury indicted Santos on July 25, 2023, charging him with three counts of bank fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1344. Under the plea agreement, Santos pleaded guilty to one count. If Santos complies with the plea agreement, the remaining counts of bank fraud will be dismissed at sentencing. Santos is currently free on bond. Judge Alsup scheduled Santos’s sentencing hearing for March 12, 2024, at 11:00 a.m. The maximum statutory penalty for the 18 U.S.C. § 1344 violation is 30 years in prison and a fine of $1,000,000. The court may also ordered Santos to serve an additional term of supervised release and may order restitution, if appropriate. However, any sentence will be imposed by the court only after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christiaan Highsmith is prosecuting the case with the assistance of Aarian Beiti. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI.


title: Lincoln Woman Sentenced for Theft of Mail and Mail Key

component: USAO - Nebraska

body_text: Acting United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Rockie Dubray, 35, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced November 20, 2023, in federal court in Lincoln for stealing a Post Office mailbox key and theft of mail. United States District Court Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Dubray to five years of probation. Between March and September 2022, the United States Postal Inspection Service received numerous complaints from customers not receiving packages supposed to be delivered to lockers in several USPS locations in Lincoln. On August 3, 2022, the Post Office received similar complaints from customers not receiving their packages at the College View Station branch in Lincoln, Nebraska. Investigators installed a surveillance camera in the lobby. On August 8, 2022, packages were stolen from the parcel locker at College View Station. Surveillance video from the night before captured a white female using a master key to open mail lockers and take packages. The female had a large, distinctive tattoo on her right leg. On September 3, 2022, video surveillance captured the same white female using a master key to access the lockers, but on this occasion, she was unable to remove the key from the lock. The female was still able to open the locker, however, and she stole packages. Still photos from the video surveillance were processed using facial recognition technology. Rockie Dubray was identified as the female in the surveillance videos. On September 27, 2022, Dubray was interviewed by a United States Postal Inspector and admitted to stealing packages from the parcel lockers on a couple occasions using a master key given to her. She admitted that she still had the contents of one of the stolen packages at her home. This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.


title: Lexington Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Prison for Role in Methamphetamine Conspiracy

body_text: Acting United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jonathan Beale, 23, of Lexington, Nebraska, was sentenced November 20, 2023, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. The Honorable John M. Gerrard, Senior United States District Judge, sentenced Beale to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Beale’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. Operating from at least June 2021 until October 2022, Beale and others were responsible for trafficking in meth brought into the state. Officers from a variety of local, state, and federal agencies pieced the conspiracy together using eyewitness information, electronic evidence, surveillance, and search warrants. On February 23, 2022, officers obtained a search warrant for Beale’s residence in Lexington. Located in the search was another co-defendant, who appeared to be living in Beale’s basement. In addition, the search located nearly eleven ounces of meth, items consistent with narcotic packaging, and over two thousand dollars. Searches at additional locations in the Lexington area netted additional meth and currency from other co-defendants. This case was investigated by the CODE Drug Task Force, Lexington Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, the Nebraska State Patrol, the Federal Bureau of Investigation.


title: Lincoln Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

component: Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces

body_text: Acting United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jesse Cervantes, Jr., 52, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on November 20, 2023, in federal court in Lincoln for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual (pure) methamphetamine. Senior United States District Court Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Cervantes to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Cervantes’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. In March and May of 2022, an undercover investigator made a total of eight purchases of meth, totaling approximately nine ounces, from Cervantes in Lincoln. On May 19, 2022, investigators served a search warrant on Cervantes’s Lincoln residence and vehicle. In the vehicle, they found two bags of meth weighing a total of just under one pound. One of the two bags, weighing 224 grams, was tested by the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Laboratory for purity, and was found to be 100% pure. Cervantes agreed to talk to law enforcement officers and said he obtained about 100 pounds of meth from a source in Omaha in about March of 2022. He got five pounds from a second source in Omaha. He said he had about five customers who were buying pound or multiple-pound quantities of meth. He also sold smaller amounts to a few people. Cervantes said the meth found in his vehicle belonged to him. This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.


title: Neligh Woman Sentenced for Health Care Fraud

component: Office of the Inspector General

body_text: Acting United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Danelle Charf, 49, of Neligh, Nebraska, was sentenced on November 20, 2023, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for making a false, fictitious, and fraudulent statement in connection with health care services. Chief Judge Robert F. Rossiter sentenced Charf to two months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Charf’s release from prison, she will begin a three-year term of supervised release. Charf was also ordered to pay $573,337.53 in restitution to Medicare and Medicaid. Charf previously owned Wanek Pharmacy in Neligh, Nebraska, and Tilden Pharmacy in Tilden, Nebraska. Agents began investigating in the fall of 2020 after receiving a tip. Several current and former employees were interviewed by investigators. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians who worked at the Wanek and/or Tilden Pharmacies reported that Charf was responsible for adjusting orders from suppliers so that brands were commonly unavailable. The witnesses corroborated the complainant’s report that the pharmacies were billing for name brand while dispensing generic medications. Employees also reported that Charf was submitting claims for prescriptions where the pharmacy anticipated that the prescription would not be filled by the customer and had not, in fact, been filled. Investigators then chose some beneficiaries at random to interview and located beneficiaries who had been prescribed a name brand medication but were dispensed a generic. Investigators were able to photograph the medications with name brand prescription labels placed on generic medications. An invoice review was done, comparing all of the claims submitted to Medicare and Medicaid by Wanek and Tilden Pharmacies to how much of the same drugs were ordered by the pharmacies during the same time period. Even excluding claims to private insurance companies, the reconciliation showed that Wanek did not have adequate purchases to support their claims for 1,032 of the 3,676 drugs reviewed, resulting in a loss of $369,837.38. Tilden did not have adequate purchases to support their claims for 612 of 1737 drugs reviewed, resulting in a loss of $203,500.15. This case was investigated by the HHS Office of Inspector General and Nebraska Attorney General Office.


title: Felon Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Heroin, Fentanyl, Firearms, and Ammunition

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A Lebanon man was sentenced in federal court today for possessing with intent to distribute controlled substances, namely, heroin and fentanyl, as well as two firearms charges, United States Attorney Jane E. Young announces. Marshall Dimick, 32, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge Landya McCafferty to 78 months in prison and 3 years of supervised release. On July 17, 2023, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and one count of carrying a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. “The defendant was prohibited from having firearms and ammunition as a previously convicted felon, yet he continued to carry a loaded gun while also in possession of dangerous drugs he intended to traffic into our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “New Hampshire law enforcement is committed to pursuing and incarcerating individuals like the defendant that use gun violence to distribute drugs.” "ATF will continue to work with our federal, state and local law enforcement counterparts to vigorously combat drug traffickers and the threat they pose to the citizens of New Hampshire by illegally possessing firearms in furtherance of their illegal drug trade,” said James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division. On July 9, 2020, an officer of the Lebanon Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle being driven by the defendant. A search of the vehicle revealed a handgun in the center console with a loaded magazine, 540 small bags containing 10 grams of a mixture containing heroin and fentanyl, over $2,000 in cash, and a cell phone. The phone contained texts of drug activity between the defendant and others, as well as a conversation between the defendant and his mother referencing the gun in the car. The Lebanon Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms led the investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Gingrande.


title: Federal Grand Jury Indictments - November 2023

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

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that a federal grand jury returned the following unsealed indictments for November 2023. Beard, Steven DeWayne - Murder in Indian Country - 18 U.S.C. §§ 1111(a), 1151 & 1153; Use, Carry, Brandish and Discharge of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Crime of Violence - 18 U.S.C. §§ 924(c)(1)(A)(i), (ii) & (iii); Causing the Death of a Person in the Course of a Violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 924(c) - 18 U.S.C. § 924(j); Forfeiture Allegation - 18 U.S.C. § 924(d) & 28 U.S.C. § 2461(c). Coleman, Warren Allen, a/k/a Warren Antonio Coleman - Felon in Possession of Firearm - 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) & 924(a)(8); Forfeiture Allegation - 18 U.S.C. § 924(d) & 28 U.S.C. § 2461(c). Fincher, Russell Richard - Engaging in the Business of Dealing Firearms without a License - 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(a)(1)(A), 923(a), & 924(a)(1)(D); Selling Ammunition to a Prohibited Person - 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(d)(1) & 924(a)(8); Making False Entry in Records by Federal Firearms Dealer - 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(m) & 924(a)(3)(B); Forfeiture Allegation - 18 U.S.C. § 924(d) & 28 U.S.C. § 2461(c). Hunter, Wesley Wayne - Aggravated Sexual Abuse in Indian Country - 18 U.S.C. §§ 2241(a), 2246(2)(A), 1151 & 1153. Knight, Christopher Joe - Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine - 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) & 841(b)(1)(C); Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl - 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) & 841(b)(1)(C); Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking Crime - 18 U.S.C. § 924(c); Felon in Possession of Firearm - 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) & 924(a)(8); Forfeiture Allegation - 18 U.S.C. § 924(d), 21 U.S.C. § 853 & 28 U.S.C. § 2461(c). Scarborough, Nicholas Lapez - Murder in Indian Country - 18 U.S.C. §§ 1111(a), 1151 & 1153; Murder in Indian Country - 18 U.S.C. §§ 1111(a), 1151 & 1153. Walker, Raheem Travon - Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition - 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) & 924(a)(8); Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition - 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) & 924(a)(8); Forfeiture Allegation - 18 U.S.C. § 924(d) & 28 U.S.C. § 2461(c). An indictment is merely an allegation; all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Sigourney Man Sentenced to Mail Fraud and Defrauding the IRS

body_text: DES MOINES, Iowa – A Sigourney man was sentenced today to 33 months in prison for committing fraud by selling grain as organic, which in fact was grown in violation of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) National Organic Program (NOP). NOP is a federal regulatory program governing organic agricultural products. In April 2023, Mark Lynn Haines, 48, pleaded guilty to mail fraud and conspiracy to defraud the United States. According to public court documents, key among Haines’ NOP violations were the use of treated seed, which is prohibited by NOP. Haines concealed his NOP violations from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS), the organic certifier. The grain was then sold by Haines to a number of unwitting purchasers at a total sale price of over $6.5 million. Haines also conspired to impede and obstruct the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in the assessment and collection of income taxes. Between April 2017 and April 2019, Haines obtained false invoices, backdated checks, and exchanged checks to give the appearance of an expense that was not in fact incurred. In total, Haines concealed over $1.3 million in income. Restitution was ordered to the IRS in the amount of $408,107 and $25,233.44 to a purchaser of the purported organic crops. Following his prison term, Haines must serve a two-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. “Consumers trust when they see the USDA Organic Seal, they are purchasing organically produced agricultural products. Haines’ fraudulent activity compromised the integrity of the program and harmed USDA’s ability to protect American agriculture. This investigation and prosecution should serve as warning to all farmers participating in the USDA National Organic Program that organic agriculture fraud will be vigorously investigated by the USDA-OIG, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and its stakeholders,” said USDA OIG Special Agent-in-Charge Shantel R. Robinson. After the sentencing, FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel said, “Mark Haines’ deception and greed not only defrauded the American government, it compromised the trust and confidence of consumers who purchase organically grown products. Today’s sentence should serve as a warning to others who ignore regulations and use deceptive practices to make a profit.” “Mr. Haines took steps to falsify documents and obstruct the IRS’ efforts to assess and collect his correct tax obligation,” said IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Murdock. “This investigation shows our commitment to upholding the integrity of the nation’s tax system and holding those who try to cheat the system accountable.” United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The United States Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, the Internal Revenue Service, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case. The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship (IDALS) revoked Haines’ organic certificate in 2018 due to several NOP violations and assisted the federal agents in the investigation and the prosecution of the case. If you witness or have knowledge of any violations of laws and regulations related to USDA programs, contact the OIG Hotline by telephone at (800) 424-9121 or TDD (202) 690-1202.


title: Ames Man Sentenced for False Presentation and Preparation of Federal Tax Returns

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DES MOINES, Iowa – An Ames man was sentenced today to 18 months in prison for preparing, presenting, and making false tax returns. According to public court documents, Bakou Kees Vonty, 41, also known as Bob Vonty, prepared and filed hundreds of federal individual income tax returns on behalf of individual taxpayers, from approximately 2011 to 2022. On a 2019 tax return, Vonty, on behalf of an individual, falsely reported business losses and qualified education expenses. As part of his plea agreement, Vonty agreed to not prepare, file, or assist in any way with the preparation of federal or state tax returns for any third parties. Further, in at least 2016, Vonty falsely reported business losses and qualified education expenses on his own tax return. Vonty’s false returns resulted in a combined tax loss exceeding $400,000. Following his prison term, Vonty must serve a one-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division investigated the case.


title: Ames Man Charged with Sex Trafficking Fourteen Victims and Sexually Exploiting One Minor

body_text: DES MOINES, Iowa – A federal grand jury in Des Moines returned an Indictment today charging an Ames man with fifteen counts of sex trafficking by fraud and coercion, one count of sexual exploitation and attempted sexual exploitation of a child, and one count of possession of child pornography. According to the Indictment, Carl Dale Markley used and attempted to use fraud and coercion to cause 14 victims to engage in commercial sex acts. The sex-trafficking charges allege that Markley began trafficking one victim as early as 2004, and between 2004 to April 2023, Markley trafficked or attempted to traffic each of the fourteen victims. In addition, the Indictment states that from August 2020 to October 2020, Markley sexually exploited (or attempted to sexually exploit) one 15‑year-old minor by using the minor to create child pornography, and that Markley knowingly possessed child pornography. Markley made his initial court appearance today before a United States Magistrate Judge of the United States District Court for the Southern District of Iowa. Markley is charged with seventeen offenses in total. Each of the sex trafficking charges carries a 15-year mandatory minimum prison term, and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. Sexual exploitation of a child carries a 15‑year mandatory term of imprisonment and a maximum term of 30 years in prison. The charge for possession of child pornography carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 10 years. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. United States Attorney Richard Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Ames Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Iowa Department of Public Safety’s Division of Criminal Investigation are investigating the case. Human trafficking is a crime involving the exploitation of youth under the age of 18 for commercial sex; the exploitation of adults for commercial sex through the use of force, fraud, or coercion; and the exploitation of any individual for compelled labor. Human trafficking does not require the transportation of individuals across state lines, or that someone is physically restrained. Signs that a person is being trafficked can include working excessively long hours, unexplained gifts, physical injury, substance abuse issues, running away from home, isolation from others, or having a person in their life controlling them or monitoring them closely. Victims particularly susceptible to being trafficked include those with criminal histories, a history of physical or sexual abuse, uncertain legal status, and dependency on controlled substances. Anyone who suspects human trafficking is occurring, be it a minor engaging in paid sex acts, or anyone being coerced into prostitution or labor, is urged to call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. If anyone has information about this case, they are urged to call the Ames Police Department, FBI, or Iowa’s Division of Criminal Investigation, or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.