title: Federal Grand Jury Indicts 24 Defendants on Drug Trafficking Charges

component: USAO - Colorado

body_text: DENVER -- The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces the indictment of twenty-four defendants in an alleged drug trafficking conspiracy. Specifically, a federal grand jury in Denver returned a superseding indictment charging the following individuals: Cesar Octavio Vega Chacon, age 45, of Mexico Jose Ezequiel Alvarado-Villarreal, age 23, of Mexico Abymelec Alvarez-Miranda, age 24, of Mexico Manuel Campos, age 37, of Mexico Susana Elizabeth Carreno-Hernandez, age 42, of Colorado Springs, Colorado Alberto Cervantes-Salazar, age 36, of Aurora, Colorado Luis Daniel Feliciano Dejesus, age 37, of Denver, Colorado Uriel Flores, age 31, of Denver, Colorado Jose Antonio Sanchez-Olmedo, age 23, of Las Vegas, Nevada Victor Edel Sandoval-Portela, age 26, of Mexico Leonel Villarreal-Olivas, of Mexico Juan Demetrio Villapando, Jr., age 36, of Mexico Jose Misael Alcaraz Cortez, age 32, of San Bernardino, California Xiomara Faith Fabres, age 41, of Colorado Springs, Colorado Erasmo Franco-Gutierrez, age 27, location unknown Yulissa Aleli Castaneda Medrano, age 25, of Mexico Christian Mercado, age 31, location unknown Jose Abel Otero-Correa, age 23, of Aurora, Colorado Ian Michael Payne, Jr., age 36, of Colorado Springs, Colorado Stephanie Saavedra, age 36, of Littleton, Colorado, and Juan Antonio Serrano-Lopez, age 34, of Denver, Colorado Juan Demetrio Villalpando Dominguez, age 63, of West Covina, California Two additional defendants identified by the nicknames “UM-5548” and “Ayon” are also included in the indictment, which was unsealed on May 9, 2023. According to the allegations in the indictment, the defendants allegedly participated in a conspiracy to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl, more than 50 grams of methamphetamine (actual), 500 grams of a mixture of a substance containing methamphetamine, and a kilogram of heroin. The indictment also alleges that Juan Demetrio Villalpando Jr., also known as “Junior,” engaged in a continuing criminal enterprise as part of the conspiracy, along with other allegations, and that he occupied positions of organizer, supervisor and any position of management. The indictment alleges that certain members of the conspiracy arranged for funds derived from the drug distribution to be moved from Colorado to California. Among other things, funds were allegedly sent to Juan Demetrio Villalpando Dominguez in California for ultimate delivery to Juan Demetrio Villalpando Jr., in Mexico. The FBI, IRS-CI, and ICE-ERO conducted the investigation in this case. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Cyrus Chung and Alexander Duncan. 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. The charges in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Case No. 23-cr-00106-CNS


title: Wakonda Man Sentenced for Theft in Connection with Health Care

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Wakonda, South Dakota, man convicted of Theft in Connection with Health Care. The sentencing took place on May 15, 2023. Cody Carstensen, age 47, was sentenced to two years of probation and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100. Carstensen was also ordered to pay restitution. Carstensen was indicted by a federal grand jury in October of 2022. He pleaded guilty on January 23, 2023. The conviction stemmed from incidents between June of 2019 and February of 2022, when Carstensen, who was a registered pharmacist in Scotland, South Dakota, knowingly and willfully embezzled, stole, and converted without authority several drugs valued at more than $100. Carstensen, in his capacity as pharmacist, received deliveries of controlled substances intended for a hospital and pharmacy. Instead of placing all of the delivered controlled substances in the inventory for the hospital and pharmacy, he stole the substances from several deliveries and used them for his own purposes. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ann M. Hoffman prosecuted the case.


title: Aurora Man Found Guilty of Carjacking

body_text: DENVER – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Odifu Odifu, age 27, of Aurora, was found guilty of carjacking, brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to facts presented at trial, on January 2, 2021, the defendant was driving a BMW that struck a GMC pickup truck on East Colfax Avenue in Aurora. After both cars pulled over on a side street, Odifu got out of the BMW, put a pistol to the head of the female driver of the pickup truck, and demanded that she get out. Odifu told the male passenger that he would shoot the female driver in the head. Odifu opened the driver-side door and removed the female driver from the truck. Meanwhile, a co-defendant removed the male passenger at gunpoint. Odifu then drove away in the truck. Aurora Police Department officers located the truck a short time later in a Wal-Mart parking lot. Odifu and his co-defendants were inside. Odifu led officers on a high-speed chase through a busy area that ended with officers immobilizing the truck on Hampden Avenue. Odifu then fled on foot. Officers apprehended him and discovered a loaded pistol at the location where he was arrested. “We are committed to doing all we can to address violence in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan. “We commend the work of our law enforcement partners that ensured this defendant was brought to justice, and hope that this conviction brings a measure of peace to the victims of this terrifying crime.” “The Regional Anti-Violence Enforcement Network (RAVEN), a multi-agency task force of local, state, and federal partners to which ATF belongs, has the critical mission of combatting and dismantling violent crime that endangers our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers. “Through this partnership, and with the great work of the Aurora Police Department, a dangerous and violent criminal who used gun violence to victimize our communities will be held accountable for his actions due to the successful prosecution by the U.S. Attorney’s Office.” A federal jury returned the guilty verdicts against Odifu on May 17, 2023. Sentencing is scheduled for July 21, 2023. The ATF handled the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Rajiv Mohan and Kurt Bohn handled the prosecution. 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. Case No. 21-cr-00047


title: Indianapolis Felon Sentenced to Over 8 Years in Federal Prison After Selling Firearms and Fentanyl Via Instagram While on Community Corrections

component: USAO - Indiana, Southern

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS- William Johnson, 21, of Indianapolis, Indiana has been sentenced to 105 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and illegally possessing a firearm. According to court documents, in September 2022, investigators with the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force (ICGTF) learned that Johnson was selling firearms and drugs out of his Indianapolis home after observing a photo of Johnson holding multiple firearms posted to Instagram. At the time the photo was posted, Johnson was on home detention under the supervision of Marion County Community Corrections in connection with a felony conviction for carrying a handgun without a license. Investigators viewed Johnson’s Instagram stories, which showed him attempting to sell multiple firearms over the app. On September 15, 2022, Johnson posted a video showing a black and silver semiautomatic handgun with the caption, “Come get this one for $300 though.” The video also showed an AR-style rifle and multiple other handguns. Johnson stated that the rifle cost “a G,” meaning $1000. Johnson posted additional firearms on his Instagram account, including a black handgun with a high-capacity drum magazine attached, and a black and white striped rifle. In addition to the sale of firearms, Johnson used his account to advertise and sell marijuana and fentanyl in the form of counterfeit oxycodone pills. On September 20, 2022, ICGTF executed a search warrant at Johnson’s residence. During the search, they located a Ruger 9mm handgun, a plastic bag containing over 100 blue fentanyl pills marked “M30,” a Glock gun box containing magazines, a Glock 10 round magazine, $2,020 in cash, a plastic bag containing 83 grams of fentanyl, two plastic bags containing 28 grams of para-fluorofentanyl, and 112 grams of marijuana in Johnson’s bedroom. In the garage, investigators found a Glock model 45 9mm handgun belonging to Johnson. This firearm had previously been reported stolen and had a high-capacity magazine attached. Johnson is prohibited from possessing a firearm due to his previous felony convictions. Johnson has four prior felony convictions, each involving the unlawful possession of firearms. U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division made the announcement. “The days of drug deals solely occurring on street corners are long gone. Today, fentanyl traffickers like this defendant can use social media to push illegal guns and poison into our community,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Myers. “Fentanyl is the leading cause of death for Hoosiers aged 18-45, and gun violence is the leading killer of American children and teens. The federal prison sentence imposed today should send a stark warning to anyone who believes that social media is a safe space to commit crimes: we are watching, we will find you, and we will hold you accountable.” ATF and the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that Johnson be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 4 years following his release from federal prison. U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Kelsey L. Massa, who prosecuted this case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. This case was brought as part of the Indiana Crime Guns Task Force (ICGTF). ICGTF is a partnership of law enforcement officers and analysts from several central Indiana law enforcement agencies in Boone, Hamilton, Hancock, Hendricks, Marion, Morgan, Johnson, and Shelby counties. In cooperation with state, local, and federal partners, ICGTF collaborates to address violent crime through a comprehensive strategy including innovative approaches to locating suspects and evidence related to violent crimes and illegal possession of firearms. According to the Drug Enforcement Administration, as little as two milligrams of fentanyl can be fatal, depending on a person’s body size, tolerance, and past usage. One kilogram of fentanyl has the potential to kill 500,000 people. 6 out of 10 illegal fentanyl tablets sold on U.S. streets now contain a potentially lethal dose of the drug. One Pill Can Kill : Avoid pills bought on the street because One Pill Can Kill . Fentanyl is a highly potent opioid that drug dealers dilute with cutting agents to make counterfeit prescription pills that appear to be Oxycodone, Percocet, Xanax, and other drugs. Fentanyl is used because it’s cheap. Small variations in the quantity or quality of fentanyl in a fake prescription pill can accidentally create a lethal dosage. Fentanyl has now become the leading cause of drug poisoning deaths in the United States. Fake prescription pills laced with fentanyl are usually shaped and colored to look like pills sold at pharmacies, like Percocet and Xanax. For example, fake prescription pills known as “M30s” imitate Oxycodone obtained from a pharmacy, but when sold on the street the pills routinely contain fentanyl. These particular pills are usually round tablets and often light blue in color, though they may be in different shapes and a rainbow of colors. They often have “M” and “30” imprinted on opposite sides of the pill. Do not take these or any other pills bought on the street – they are routinely fake and poisonous, and you won’t know until it’s too late. ###


title: United States Army National Guardsman And Former Rockville, Maryland Police Officer Sentenced To 42 Months In Federal Prison For Possessing Over 12,000 Depictions Of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore , Maryland - U.S. District Judge Stephanie A. Gallagher today sentenced Daniel Morozewicz, age 38, of Frederick, Maryland, to 42 months in federal prison, followed by lifetime supervised release, for possession of child pornography. Judge Gallagher also ordered that Morozewicz must pay $14,000 in restitution. The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Special Agent in Charge James C. Harris of Homeland Security Investigations ("HSI") Baltimore; Frederick County State's Attorney J. Charles Smith; and Colonel David Benjamin, Chief Deputy of the Frederick County Sheriff's Office. According to his guilty plea, from September 2020 to January 2021, while employed as a Rockville Police Officer and an Army National Guardsman, Morozewicz received, possessed, and distributed child pornography on the BitTorrent file sharing network. Morozewicz also used multiple electronic devices to download and distribute child pornography involving prepubescent minors. During that time, Morozewicz repeatedly distributed child pornography to undercover law enforcement officers. On at least four instances in 2020, investigators determined that the devices associated with Morozewicz’s IP address downloaded and shared child pornographic files on the BitTorrent; including eight packages of child pornography. As stated in his guilty plea, on March 4, 2021, Morozewicz received a tip that federal law enforcement wished to conduct an in-person interview with him. The next day, on March 5, 2021, law enforcement executed a series of search and seizure warrants on Morozewicz’s residence, vehicle, and his person. As a result of the search of Morozewicz’s person, law enforcement seized a smartphone which had been recently factory reset and erased in light of the impending visit from federal law enforcement. He also admitted that he discarded his computer in anticipation of a visit from law enforcement. Morozewicz’s actions were viewed as an attempt to impede the investigation and prosecution of his child pornography offenses. Multiple electronic devices were seized in connection the warrants executed at Morozewicz’s residence and in his vehicle. A forensic examination of Morozewicz’s devices revealed that he possessed over 12,300 depictions of child pornography and erotica, including over 200 depicts involving the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers, and over 90 child pornographic images involving sado-masochistic conduct. 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 HSI, the Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office, and the Frederick County Sheriff’s Office for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul A. Riley and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joyce King, Chief Counsel with the Frederick County State’s Attorney’s Office, 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: Siblings Convicted, Sentenced in Federal Court for COVID Relief Fraud

component: USAO - Mississippi, Southern

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A Brandon woman was sentenced to two years of probation for theft of unemployment insurance benefits related to the COVID-19 pandemic, and her brother was convicted of conspiring with her to commit wire fraud in obtaining these benefits. U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca, Mississippi State Auditor Shad White, and Special Agent in Charge Mathew Broadhurst of the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Southeast Region made the announcement. According to court documents and statements made in court, Aubrey D. Martinez assisted her brother, John Evans, Jr., in applying for benefits with the Mississippi Department of Employment Security. As an inmate in the Mississippi Department of Corrections, Evans was not entitled to receive unemployment insurance benefits. Evans is serving a 20-year sentence in MDOC custody for armed robbery and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The unemployment insurance benefits were federally subsidized through the CARES Act in response to the pandemic. Her brother, John Evans, is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21, 2023, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of $250,000. The pair will be required to pay restitution in the amount of $10,732. The U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General and the Mississippi Office of the State Auditor investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly T. Purdie is prosecuting the case. This case is being prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s National Unemployment Insurance Fraud Task Force (NUIFTF). In response to the unprecedented scope of Unemployment Insurance (UI) fraud, the Department of Justice established the NUIFTF. The NUIFTF is a prosecutor-led multi-agency task force with representatives from FBI, DOL-OIG, IRS-CI, HSI, DHS-OIG, USPIS, USSS, SSA-OIG, FDIC-OIG, and other agencies. Members of the NUIFTF are working with state workforce agencies, financial institutions, and other law enforcement partners across the country to fight UI fraud, and consumers should be vigilant in light of these threats and take the appropriate steps to safeguard themselves. The CARES Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020, designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act is the authorization that expands states’ ability to provide unemployment insurance for many workers impacted by COVID-19, including for workers who are not ordinarily eligible for unemployment insurance benefits. Anyone with information about attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866‑720‑5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.


title: Federal Grand Jury Indicts New Orleans Man for  Kidnapping and Federal Gun Offense

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

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 5, 2023 MERVIN AMACKER, Jr. , age 41, was charged in a two-count indictment for kidnapping and being a felon in possession of a firearm. In count 1, AMACKER is charged with kidnapping, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1201(a). If convicted of Count 1, AMACKER faces a maximum term of life imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to five years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. In count 2, AMACKER is charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). If convicted of Count 2, AMACKER faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Maryland MS-13 Gang Member Sentenced To 28 Years In Federal Prison For Participating In A Racketeering Conspiracy, Including Two Murders

body_text: Greenbelt , Maryland – U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis today sentenced Franklyn Edgardo Sanchez, a/k/a “Freddy,” “Magic,” “Miclo,” and “Delinquente,” age 26, of Adelphi, Maryland, to 28 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for his participation in a racketeering conspiracy, including two murders, related to his activities as part of the MS-13 gang. Judge Xinis also ordered that Sanchez must pay restitution in the full amount of the victims’ losses, including any funeral costs incurred by Victim 1 and Victim 4’s estates. The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Special Agent in Charge Thomas J. Sobocinski of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; Special Agent in Charge James C. Harris of Homeland Security Investigations Baltimore; and Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince George’s County Police Department. According to court documents, La Mara Salvatrucha gang, also known as “MS-13,” is an international criminal organization composed primarily of immigrants or descendants of immigrants from El Salvador, with members operating in the State of Maryland, including Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, and Frederick County, and throughout the United States. In Maryland and elsewhere, MS-13 members are organized in “cliques,” smaller groups that operate in a specific city or region. MS-13 members are required to commit acts of violence, both to maintain membership and discipline within the gang and against rival gangs. One of the principal rules of MS-13 is that its members must attack and kill rivals, known as “chavalas,” whenever possible. Participation in criminal activity by a member, particularly in violent acts directed at rival gangs or as directed by gang leadership, increases the respect accorded to that member, resulting in that member maintaining or increasing his position in the gang and opens the door to promotion to a leadership position. As detailed in the plea agreement and other court documents, from at least August 2018 through July 2021, Sanchez was a member and associate of Weedams Locos Salvatrucha, (WLS) an MS-13 clique operating primarily in Adelphi, Maryland. According to the plea agreement, on February 23, 2020, at the direction of an MS-13 leader, Sanchez and co-defendant MS-13 member Hernan Yanes-Rivera, shot and killed Victim 1, a former WLS member, in retaliation for the victim’s suspected cooperation with law enforcement. As a result of his participation in the murder, Sanchez was promoted within the hierarchy of MS-13. As detailed in court documents, on August 8, 2020, Sanchez and several WLS members agreed to the murder of Victim 4, who was suspected of cooperating with law enforcement and to whom Sanchez owed a debt. After driving to a wooded area in Prince George’s County, Maryland, WLS leader Brayan Alexander Torres called Victim 4 and told him to come to the wooded area to participate in a disciplinary beating of Sanchez. In fact, Sanchez knew that the gang intended to murder Victim 4. Sanchez was armed with a revolver, and Torres gave a second revolver to another MS-13 member to participate in the murder. When Victim 4 arrived, Sanchez and the other MS-13 member each fired multiple shots at Victim 4, causing Victim 4 to fall to the ground. Sanchez then pistol-whipped Victim 4 and stabbed him with a knife. Torres and other WLS members dragged Victim 4’s body to a stream and left it there. As he was leaving the woods, Sanchez noticed he was bleeding and became concerned that his DNA was left on the body. To prevent the discovery of DNA or other evidence and to hinder the investigation and prosecution of Victim 4’s murder, Torres called other WLS members, including co-defendant Agustino Eugenio Rivas Rodriguez, and ordered them to bring shovels to the wooded area, where they dug a hole and buried Victim 4’s body. Victim 4’s body was later recovered with a bullet wound to the head. Sanchez also participated in money laundering by transferring gang funds to MS-13 members and associates in El Salvador. Sanchez knew the money he transferred was the proceeds of the gang’s extortion activities. The government and the defendants have agreed that, if the Court accepts their guilty pleas, Brayan Alexander Torres, a/k/a “Spooky,” age 29, of Adelphi, Maryland, will be sentenced to 28 years in federal prison, and Hernan Yanes-Rivera, a/k/a “Recio,” age 22, of Adelphi, Maryland and Agustino Eugenio Rivas Rodriguez, a/k/a “Terrible,” age 25, of Silver Spring, Maryland, will be sentenced to 22 years and 16 years in federal prison, respectively. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis has scheduled sentencing for Torres on August 31, 2023; for Rivas Rodriguez on July 21, 2023; and for Yanes-Rivera on July 28, 2023. Anyone with information about MS-13 is encouraged to provide their tips to law enforcement. The FBI and Homeland Security Investigations both have nationwide tiplines that you can call to report what you know. You can reach the FBI at 1-866-STP-MS13 (1-866-787-6713), or you can call HSI at 1-866-DHS-2-ICE. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods ("PSN"), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serves to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN, an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime, is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice's violent crime reduction efforts. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. This case is also part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. United States Attorney Barron and Assistant Attorney General Polite commended the FBI, HSI and the Prince George’s County Police Department for their work in the investigation and thanked the Montgomery County Police Department and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement for their assistance. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Crespo, and Trial Attorneys Brendan Woods and Christopher Taylor of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section, who are prosecuting 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-neighborhoods-psnexile and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Hinds County Man Convicted of Trafficking Pounds of Crystal Methamphetamine in the Jackson Metropolitan Area

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man pleaded guilty to conspiracy and possession of crystal methamphetamine with the intent to distribute, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca, Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Director Steve Maxwell of the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics. According to court documents, Lorenzo Sutton, 43, sold pounds of crystal methamphetamine to Erica Rhodes and others between January 2016 and April 2021 with the intent that the crystal methamphetamine be further distributed throughout the Jackson Metropolitan area for profit. Sutton is scheduled to be sentenced on August 16, 2023, and faces a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison and a maximum term of life in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Rhodes received a 4-year federal prison sentence in January 2022 to run concurrently with a prior 15-year state sentence in the Rankin County Circuit Court for her role in the drug trafficking operation. This case is the result of an extensive investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the Rankin County District Attorney’s Office, the Rankin County Sheriff’s Office, the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, the Ridgeland Police Department, the Pearl Police Department, the Flowood Police Department, the National Guard Counter Drug Unit, the Hinds County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jackson Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carla J. Clark prosecuted the case. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level 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: Clay County Man Indicted On Firearm And Drug Charges

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Edward Sherwood Gustafson, IV (30, Green Cove Springs) with two counts of possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance involving methamphetamine and cocaine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Gustafson faces up to 20 years in federal prison for each count of drug distribution and up to 15 years in federal prison for the firearm offense. The indictment also notifies Gustafson that the United States intends to forfeit a Smith and Wesson pistol and ammunition traceable to the firearm offense. The court ordered Gustafson detained pending trial. His trial is set for July 2023. According to the indictment, on January 21, 2023, Gustafson possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. At the time of the drug offenses, he also possessed a firearm and ammunition. Gustafson has seven previous felony convictions, and therefore, is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. The forfeiture will be handled by Assistant United States Attorney Mai Tran.


title: St. Petersburg Man Sentenced To Seven Years In Prison For Distributing And Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Mary Scriven has sentenced David Blackmer (34, St. Petersburg) to 7 years in federal prison, to be followed by 20 years of supervised release, for distributing and possessing child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Blackmer to register as a sex offender and pay $114,000 in restitution. Blackmer had pleaded guilty on February 7, 2023. According to court documents, on September 7, 2021, Blackmer distributed child sexual abuse videos and images to an undercover computer belonging to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) through a peer-to-peer program. Federal agents executed a search warrant at Blackmer’s residence and recovered electronic devices containing thousands of images and videos of children being sexually abused. “This predator engaged in the collection and sharing of thousands of images and videos of children being sexually abused,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kristopher Pagitt. “Our HSI Tampa special agents are proud to be a part of Project Safe Childhood to combat the epidemic of people exploiting our most vulnerable.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa M. Spergel. This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Jacksonville Felon Sentenced To More Than Four Years In Federal Prison For Illegally Possessing Firearms

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Cory Lee Kelly (35, Jacksonville) to four years and nine months in federal prison for possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. Kelly had pleaded guilty on February 8, 2023. As part of his plea, he agreed to forfeit a machinegun, semi-automatic AR-style pistol, and assorted ammunition. According to court documents, on April 28, 2022, a trooper from the Florida Highway Patrol (FHP) pulled over a vehicle being driven by Kelly for a seatbelt violation. The vehicle was occupied by Kelly and a two-year-old child. At Kelly’s driver’s side window, the trooper smelled marijuana. Kelly did not possess a valid driver license and the trooper also determined that Kelly had an outstanding arrest warrant for an unresolved charge of driving with a suspended license. Kelly was detained, and based on the smell of marijuana, his vehicle was searched. During the search, the trooper located remnants of marijuana and a Glock-type pistol, which once the driver’s side door was opened, was readily visible under the driver’s seat. The pistol had no serial number, was loaded with 26 rounds of ammunition, and had a so-called “Glock switch” – a device used to convert the pistol into a machine gun, allowing it to fire multiple rounds with a single pull of the trigger. Further investigation revealed that Kelly had previously been convicted of possession of a controlled substance while armed, a felony offense. The trooper arrested Kelly for, among other things, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, a state offense. On May 3, 2022, while his state case was pending, Kelly was released from custody after posting bond. On July 19, 2022, an officer from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office observed Kelly driving a car while speeding, with illegal window tint, and an expired registration. The officer signaled Kelly to pull over, which he did. As the officer approached the driver’s side window, Kelly rolled it down a minimal amount. When asked to roll it down further, Kelly complied, and the officer smelled marijuana. Kelly was alone in the car and visibly within his reach was an AR-style semi-automatic pistol on the passenger-side of the car. When asked, Kelly could not produce a driver license and confirmed that he was a convicted felon. Kelly was detained, and pursuant to a search, in addition to the semi-automatic pistol (loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition), officers located counterfeit currency, and bags of marijuana and crack cocaine. Kelly was arrested for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. On September 1, 2022, while his two state prosecutions were pending, Kelly was released from custody after posting bond. On September 15, 2022, a federal grand jury indicted Kelly for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and he was arrested at his home on September 22, 2022. When officers entered the home, they located a loaded shotgun on the floor of a bathroom. As a convicted felon, Kelly is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. This case was investigated by the Florida Highway Patrol, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael J. Coolican and Mai Tran. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Federal Grand Jury Indicts New Orleans Man for Federal Gun Offense

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on May 12, 2023, KEILEN HAWKINS , age 25, was charged in a one-count indictment being a felon in possession of a firearm. In count 1, HAWKINS is charged with possession of a firearm by a felon, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(1). If convicted of Count 1, HAWKINS faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Dawkins of the Violent Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Two Georgians indicted for pandemic-related fraud

component: USAO - Georgia, Northern

body_text: ATLANTA – A federal grand jury has indicted individuals in two separate cases for fraud related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Kenneth Wilkerson was indicted for his fraudulent acquisition of several Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) for small businesses as well as his illegal possession of multiple firearms. Jeremy Graves was indicted for filing multiple fraudulent applications for unemployment insurance benefits using victims’ stolen personal identifying information. “While communities suffered from the effects of the pandemic, the federal government worked to help small businesses and individuals avoid catastrophic economic disaster through the CARES Act,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “We will continue to investigate and prosecute those who illegally obtained these loans and work diligently to recover these funds intended to support struggling business owners and families.” Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division stated, “No matter how much Wilkerson tried to conceal his money laundering activities behind Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) funds, this was a drug trafficking operation, generating hundreds of thousands of dollars in illicit proceeds.” “The defendant allegedly chose to illegally possess firearms,” said Alisha Jones, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Atlanta Field Division. “We will continue to pursue those who seek to circumvent the law.” “An important part of the mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of fraud related to unemployment insurance programs. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate these types of allegations,” said Mathew Broadhurst, Special Agent-in-Charge, Southeast Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the indictments, and other information presented in court: Kenneth Wilkerson allegedly submitted at least nine loan applications to financial institutions, authorized lenders, and the Small Business Administration that contained fraudulent information regarding gross revenues and fake employees at his various companies. He also allegedly submitted fraudulent tax forms and bank statements to support his loan applications. Wilkerson allegedly received more than $383,000 from Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans and Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) that he failed to spend on authorized business purposes. Jeremy Graves allegedly used stolen identification documents to apply for and obtain unemployment insurance (UI) benefits – a program that was expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic with CARES Act funds, in multiple states, including Georgia, California, Maryland, and Nevada. In his applications, Graves listed various addresses, including his own, as the applicant’s mailing address. Debit cards loaded with UI benefits were then mailed to those addresses. Graves allegedly called the bank associated with the debit cards to activate the cards, request new cards, and make other inquiries. The individuals whose identities were stolen and used to apply for the UI benefits did not apply, or give anyone permission to apply, for UI benefits on their behalf. Graves allegedly received over $230,000 in UI benefits to which he was not entitled. Kenneth Wilkerson, 39, of Atlanta, Georgia, was charged in a 16-count superseding indictment with two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, two counts of bank fraud, eleven counts of wire fraud, and one count of money laundering. Wilkerson allegedly submitted fraudulent applications seeking more than $800,000 in PPP and EIDL funds for various, seemingly defunct businesses. Jeremy Graves, 38, of Atlanta, Georgia, was charged in a 26-count indictment with 11 counts of wire fraud, eight counts of aggravated identity theft, and seven counts of theft of government funds. Graves allegedly applied for and obtained UI benefits in multiple states using stolen identities. Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. The Kenneth Wilkerson case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Jeremy Graves case is being investigated by the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebeca M. Ojeda and Mary Webb are prosecuting Kenneth Wilkerson. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane C. Schulman is prosecuting Jeremy Graves. On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Waynesboro Man Found Guilty Of Murder Of Three Individuals

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Torey White, age 32, of Waynesboro, Pennsylvania, was found guilty yesterday on three counts of murdering three individuals after a three-week trial before United States District Court Judge Christopher C. Conner. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, White’s conviction was the result of an almost seven-year investigation into murders of three individuals that occurred on June 25, 2016, on a property along Welsh Run Road in Mercersburg, Franklin County. When Pennsylvania State Police officers were called to the crime scene, they found the bodies of Wendy Ann Chaney, 39, Hagerstown, Md, Brandon Cole, 47, Fayetteville, PA, and Phillip Matthew Jackson, 36, Mercersburg, PA, in a barn on victim Jackson’s property. All were shot. The three victims had their hands zipped-tied behind their backs and had been set on fire. Jackson and Cole were shot once in the head. Chaney was shot twice, once in the back and once in the neck. Wendy Chaney and Brandon Cole were already dead when the police responded to the scene. Phillip Jackson was transported to York Hospital where he died shortly after arrival. The evidence presented at trial established that Wendy Chaney was in a relationship with Torey White and a coconspirator and had been previously assisting both with their drug distribution operations. White and co-coconspirator Kevin Coles learned that Chaney was cooperating with federal authorities and contracted for her to be murdered. Co-defendants Jerell Adgebesan and Kenyatta Corbett recruited members of a Baltimore based gang known as the Black Guerilla Family and others from Baltimore to travel to the Jackson property to kill Wendy Chaney. The killers were promised that they could take as payment $20,000 that was to be in a safe in the barn and any drugs and firearms that they could locate on the Jackson property. Once there, the killers encountered not only Wendy Chaney but also Brandon Cole and Phillip Jackson. Chaney was killed to protect the drug trafficking activities of Coles, and his co-conspirators. Jackson and Cole were murdered to prevent them from being witnesses to the crimes of violence that were committed at the Jackson property. The killers never found any money on the property but stole some drugs and firearms. The following individuals were charged along with White as a result of the investigation: Kevin Coles, age 37, of New York and Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced to three consecutive terms of life imprisonment for multiple crimes, including murder for hire, robbery, and drug trafficking; Jerell Adgebesan, age 35, of Baltimore and Hagerstown, Maryland, pled guilty in June 2022 to Hobbs Act robbery and to being an accomplice to the use of a firearm during Hobbs Act robbery. Judge Conner sentenced Adgebesan in February 2023 to life imprisonment and a consecutive 10-year term of imprisonment; Mark Johnson, 35, Baltimore, Maryland, pled guilty to obstructing the grand jury’s investigation and was sentenced to 110 months’ imprisonment; Terrance Lawson, age 31, Baltimore, sentenced to time served for attempting to intimidate a witness; Tyrone Armstrong, age 30, Baltimore, sentenced to time served for attempting to intimidate a witness; Devin Dickerson, age 31, Hagerstown, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute heroin and crack cocaine and is awaiting sentencing; Kenyatta Corbett, age 38, Hagerstown, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and to being an accomplice to the use of a firearm during Hobbs Act robbery and is awaiting sentencing; Michael Buck, age 30, Hagerstown, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and to being an accomplice to the use of a firearm during Hobbs Act robbery and is awaiting sentencing; Nicholas Preddy, age 29, Baltimore, pleaded guilty to attempting to kill a witness and is awaiting sentencing; Johnnie Jenkins-Armstrong, age 22, Baltimore, pleaded guilty to Hobbs Act robbery and to being an accomplice to the use of a firearm during Hobbs Act robbery and is awaiting sentencing; Christopher Johnson, age 31, Baltimore, Maryland, pleaded guilty to multiple counts including murder for hire and is awaiting sentencing; Llesenia Woodard, 46, Hagerstown, Maryland, pled guilty to providing false testimony to the grand jury investigating the murders and is awaiting sentencing; and Yolanda Diaz, 31, Hagerstown, was indicted on multiple counts of perjury and obstruction of justice based upon her testimony at the Coles trial. Her trial is currently scheduled for May 2023. Joshua Davis, age 30, previously pled guilty to participating in the conspiracy to locate and kill an individual believed to be cooperating with federal authorities in the investigation of the triple murders. Davis was sentenced to serve 100 months’ imprisonment. White faces three mandatory life sentences, one for each count of conviction. Each count dealt with a separate victim. The following federal, state and local law enforcement agencies participated in the investigation: Drug Enforcement Administration Harrisburg Resident Office; Pennsylvania State Police, Chambersburg; Pennsylvania State Police, Troop H; Franklin County Drug Task Force; Franklin County Adult Probation; Pennsylvania State Probation and Parole; Hagerstown Police Department, Criminal Investigation Division; Drug Enforcement Administration, Hagerstown Resident Office; Washington County Narcotics Task Force; Drug Enforcement Administration, Baltimore District Office, Strike Force Group 1; Maryland State Police Homicide Unit; Baltimore Police Department Narcotics, Fugitive And Homicide Units; Baltimore County Police Department Narcotics and Gang Unit; Federal Bureau of Investigation Evidence Management Unit, Quantico, VA; US Marshal’s Service Harrisburg, PA and Phoenix, AZ; Franklin County District Attorney’s Office; United States Attorney’s Office, District Of Maryland; and the Washington County State’s Attorney’s Office. Judy Fernandez, Manager of Analytic Services at LexisNexis Special Services, Inc., (LNSSI) provided expert assistance to investigators and the prosecutors in the areas of analysis, support, and the rendering of her expert opinion. Assistant United States Attorney William A. Behe, Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, and Senior Litigation Counsel Michael Consiglio prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. This prosecution is also part of an extensive investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) identified as “Retribution for Welsh Run.” OCDETF is a joint federal, state, and local cooperative approach to combat drug trafficking and is the nation’s primary tool for disrupting and dismantling major drug trafficking organizations, targeting national and regional level drug trafficking organizations and coordinating the necessary law enforcement entities and resources to disrupt or dismantle the targeted criminal organization and seize their assets. # # #


title: Busby woman admits armed meth trafficking on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: BILLINGS— A Busby woman on May 18 admitted to trafficking methamphetamine while possessing a firearm after officers found the drug and three firearms in a car in which she was traveling, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today. Jamesey Maria Jefferson, 33, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense as charged in a superseding information. Jefferson faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $1 million fine and at least three years of supervised release on the drug crime and a mandatory minimum five years to life in prison, consecutive to any other sentence, a $250,000 fine and at least five years of supervised release on the firearm crime. U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Jefferson was detained pending further proceedings. In court documents, the government alleged that on Sept. 12, 2021 on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation, law enforcement officers stopped a car that had run two stop signs, was traveling at a high rate of speed and was believed to have been seen at an earlier shooting. Officers detained Jefferson and three other people who were in the car. A federal search warrant was served on the car and officers found approximately 48 grams of meth, $2,000 in cash, a scale and drug paraphernalia, ammunition and three firearms. The guns were a .17-caliber rifle, an AR-style 5.56mm rifle and a 9mm handgun. Jefferson admitted to investigators that she possessed the meth, the .17-caliber rifle and the 9mm handgun. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case. The FBI and Bureau of Indian Affairs conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Wendell Armed Robber Targeting Aldi Grocery Stores Sentenced to Nearly 30 Years in Prison

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. –Lionel Robinson, 43, of Wendell, was sentenced to 356 months in prison for a string of armed robberies targeting Aldi stores across Eastern North Carolina between January and March of 2019. In October of 2022, a jury convicted Robinson for two counts of Hobbs Act robbery, two counts of using a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. “This defendant engaged in violent behavior in a grocery store where families do their shopping,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “Through a collaborative investigation between state, local and federal partners, we took a dangerous criminal off the street, and placed him behind bars for nearly 30 years. This sentence should serve as a deterrent to those that are engaged in violence in our communities.” From January 2019 until March 2019, Robinson, sometimes with an accomplice, targeted Aldi stores in Lexington, Rocky Mount, Fayetteville, Winterville, Indian Trail, and Kernersville, North Carolina. Robinson would ring the back doorbell to the Aldi pretending to be a delivery driver. When an employee would answer the door, he would force his way inside, holding the employee at gunpoint and make them take him to the manager’s office where the store’s safe was located. He would keep the gun pointed at the employee while giving directions to open the safe. Robinson wore disguises, including masks, gloves, and reflective vests. When law enforcement identified Lionel Robinson as a suspect, they executed a search warrant at his residence and recovered evidence relevant to the robberies, including gloves and clothing consistent with what was used in the robbery, rolled coins similar to what Aldi stores would have, and the suspect vehicle that was observed on camera. They also recovered a large quantity of ammunition. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Rocky Mount Police Department, Fayetteville Police Department, Greenville Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Kernersville Police Department, Union County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chad Rhoades and Yasir Sadat prosecuted and tried the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:21-cr-00017-FL. ###


title: Lackawanna County Man Sentenced To 70 Months’ Imprisonment For Methamphetamine Trafficking

body_text: SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that David Paul Quick, age 26, of Scranton, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Court Judge Malachy E. Mannion, to 70 months’ imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute more than fifty grams of methamphetamine. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Quick previously pleaded guilty and admitted to possessing more than fifty grams of methamphetamine for distribution in the Scranton area in 2022. The charge stems from an incident in June 2022, in which members of the Scranton Police Department and Pennsylvania State Police conducted a search of a residence on South Webster Avenue in Scranton and found Quick in possession of several packages of methamphetamine for distribution as well as a loaded .380 caliber handgun. The charges against the defendant resulted from an investigation conducted by the Scranton Police Department, the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorneys Robert J. O’Hara and Brian J. Gallagher prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. ###


title: Convicted Murderer Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison After Being Caught Illegally Possessing Firearms, including a “Sawed-Off” Shotgun

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS- Jeremy Bullock, 45, of Indianapolis, Indiana has been sentenced to 5 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm and possessing an unregistered “sawed off” shotgun. According to court documents, on July 1, 2020, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department officers, including a SWAT team, executed a search warrant at Bullock’s residence on Summer Avenue in Indianapolis. Bullock told officers that there were three firearms inside the residence, including a “short shotgun,” an “AR” and a .380 pistol. Bullock also stated that he placed the shotgun and .380 pistol in the attic when the SWAT team was outside the residence While searching the residence, officers located a rifle in the kitchen behind the washing machine, the receiver for a.380 pistol and a 12-gauge shotgun. The shotgun had been “sawed off.” A “sawed off” shotgun has an overall length of less than 26 inches and a barrel length of less than 18 inches and is not legal under the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Act, unless the owner is specifically authorized, and the weapon is registered with the appropriate federal authorities. Bullock is prohibited from possessing any firearm due to his previous felony convictions of attempted carjacking, illegally possessing a firearm, resisting law enforcement, burglary, and murder. U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers, Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division, and Chief of the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department, Randal Taylor, made the announcement. “Guns in the hands of violent criminals drive violence and death in our neighborhoods,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “This convicted murderer chose to possess multiple firearms, including an ‘AR’-style rifle and a illegal ‘sawed-off’ shotgun. As we work to urgently reduce gun violence, investigation and federal prosecution of the most dangerous armed criminals is a top priority. We are grateful to our partners at IMPD and ATF for ensuring that this defendant is disarmed and behind bars.” ATF and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge James P. Hanlon. Judge Hanlon also ordered that Bullock be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison. U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Michelle P. Brady, who prosecuted this case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. ###


title: Philipsburg Man Charged With Drug Trafficking And Firearms Offenses

body_text: SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jeremy Stephen Heeman, age 46, of Philipsburg, Pennsylvania, was indicted on May 16, 2023, for drug trafficking and firearms offenses. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment charges Heeman with possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of an unregistered firearm and felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, related to conduct that occurred on January 9, 2023, in Centre County. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luisa Honora Berti is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is up to life imprisonment, a term of life supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. # # #


title: Bronx Man Convicted Of Robbery And Shooting Of Taxi Driver

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced the conviction in Manhattan federal court of MARIO POWELL for the armed robbery and shooting of a cab driver in the Bronx on March 17, 2018. The jury convicted POWELL following a four-day trial before U.S. District Judge Paul A. Engelmayer. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Over five years ago, Mario Powell robbed and brutally shot an innocent driver of a taxi, running away into the night and leaving the victim to die. Yesterday, a jury of his peers held Powell accountable for this heinous crime. We thank our partners in the NYPD and in the SPARTA NYPD/ATF Joint Robbery Task Force for their unwavering pursuit of justice for this victim and the public. This Office will pursue violent criminals who commit firearms offenses on the streets of New York City with unceasing vigor and determination.” According to the allegations in the Indictment and the evidence presented during the trial: On March 17, 2018, POWELL took a cab from one neighborhood in the Bronx to another. Upon reaching his requested destination, POWELL robbed the cab driver at gunpoint, obtained $23 from the cab driver, and shot the cab driver nine times. POWELL fled the scene and was subsequently arrested on March 23, 2018. * * * POWELL, 33, of the Bronx, New York, was convicted of one count of Hobbs Act robbery, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison; and one count of the use, carrying, and possession of a firearm, which was brandished and discharged, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. The statutory minimum and maximum penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge. POWELL is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Engelmayer on October 3, 2023. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (“ATF”) and the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), in particular, the Strategic Patterned Armed Robbery Technical Apprehension (“SPARTA”) Task Force, which is composed of agents and officers of the ATF and the NYPD. This case is being supervised by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas John Wright, Chelsea L. Scism, and Emily A. Johnson are in charge of the prosecution, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialists Chanel-Ashley Foster and Mia Vuckovich.


title: Jacksonville Convicted Felon Sentenced To 15 Years In Federal Prison For Methamphetamine He Intended To Distribute And Possessing A Firearm

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – Senior United States District Judge Harvey E. Schlesinger has sentenced Leonard M. Green to 15 years in federal prison for possessing with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Green had pleaded guilty on January 4, 2023. According to court documents, on May 19, 2021, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted an undercover controlled receipt of a drug package that contained approximately 4.63 kilograms of methamphetamine from a drug trafficking organization (DTO) in Mexico. The package was to be shipped from Calexico, California to Jacksonville. HSI (San Diego) coordinated with HSI Jacksonville and the United States Postal Service Inspection Service (USPIS) after the undercover agent received instructions from the Mexican DTO to divide the methamphetamine and send it to two addresses in Florida. On May 27, 2021, one of the packages containing more than two kilograms of methamphetamine was sent to Green’s residence. After the package arrived, federal agents executed a search warrant of the premises and interviewed Green. During the interview, Green admitted to receiving the package, owning a firearm as a convicted felon, and operating his residence as a drop spot for drugs being mailed to the Jacksonville area for a local drug trafficker. “Illicit and dangerous drugs continue to ravage our communities, and this career criminal did not learn his lesson the first time,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Assistant Special Agent in Charge K. Jim Phillips. “Alongside our partners at the U.S. Postal Service Inspection Service and our dedicated task force officers, HSI continues our commitment to rid our streets from this poison that tears our communities apart.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the United States Postal Service Inspection Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kirwinn Mike. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Chicago Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for a Series of Retail Store Robberies Spanning Multiple States

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ROCKFORD — A man has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison in connection with a series of retail store robberies in Illinois and Indiana. In 2016 and 2017, CHRISTOPHER TAYLOR and his co-conspirators carried out two violent robberies and one attempted robbery, using firearms and pepper spray to terrorize store employees and security guards while stealing laptops, iPads, smart watches, and cell phones. During the robberies, Taylor or his co-conspirators physically assaulted and restrained the employees and security guards. Taylor, 25, of Chicago, pleaded guilty last year to robbery and attempted robbery charges. U.S. District Judge Philip G. Reinhard imposed the ten-year sentence Wednesday after a hearing in federal court in Rockford. The sentence was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, and Robert W. “Wes” Wheeler, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Field Office of the FBI. The Rockford Police Department assisted in the investigation. The government was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert S. Ladd. Taylor admitted in a plea agreement that on Aug. 5, 2016, he attempted to rob a Best Buy store in Burbank, Ill. Taylor drove a stolen vehicle to the store along with three co-conspirators. Members of the group entered the store and attempted to steal two laptop computers. The group fled in the stolen vehicle, crashing into numerous vehicles during their flight. On Dec. 16, 2016, Taylor traveled with eight co-conspirators to the Cherry Valley Simply Mac store in Cherry Valley, Ill. Taylor’s co-conspirators forced the employees to the back of the store, pepper sprayed one of them, and stole two computers. Taylor, who was waiting outside, punched an employee who was returning to the store as the robbery was occurring, and then took the employee’s cell phone. On Dec. 17, 2016, Taylor and his co-conspirators traveled to the Valparaiso Simply Mac store in Valparaiso, Ind., and entered the store with a gun. The group disarmed a security guard, forced the employees and security guard to a back room, and tied them up using zip ties. Taylor, along with his co-conspirators, carried out $69,500 worth of stolen merchandise.


title: Jamaican National Sentenced to Prison for Lottery Fraud

component: USAO - Ohio, Northern

body_text: CLEVELAND – Javon Jonathan Spencer, 32, of Euclid, Ohio was sentenced yesterday to 18 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Benita Y. Pearson after he pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud and mail fraud. Spencer was also ordered to serve 3 years of supervised release after incarceration and pay a $400 special assessment. Additionally, the court ordered Spencer to pay restitution to his victims in the amount of $267,314.98. Spencer, a Jamaican National, resided with his wife in Euclid, Ohio. The United States Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation and found that Spencer was involved in a Jamaican Operations Linked to Telemarketing (“JOLT”) fraud scheme that targeted elderly victims. In the JOLT scheme, scammers contacted the targeted individuals via mail or telephone and informed the victims that they won a lottery or sweepstakes, such as the Publishers Clearinghouse Sweepstakes. However, to claim and receive the money, the victims would need to pay upfront fees or taxes. This case was investigated by the Postal Inspection Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian M. McDonough and Joseph P. Dangelo.


title: Man Found Guilty of Murder While Within Indian Country

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: Salt Lake City , Utah – A federal jury convicted a Utah man yesterday for murder in the second degree while within Indian Country and use, carry and discharge of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial, Perry Maryboy, 59, of Bluff, Utah, unlawfully shot and killed another man while within Indian Country on April 13, 2018. Court documents allege Maryboy, who was parked on the side of the road at the intersection of Country Road 443 and Summerhouse Road, escalated an argument with the victim after being told to leave the area by the victim, who drove up behind him. Maryboy exited his truck and grabbed a revolver. He fired two shots, each allegedly intended as warning shots, but the second shot struck the victim in the back of the head. The victim died on scene in front of his common law wife and her 7-year-old child. Maryboy then fled the scene in his truck. “The defendant acted with complete recklessness,” said Assistant United States Attorney, Mark Hirata, for the District of Utah, during trial. “If firing a bullet to the back of a person’s head isn’t a crime of violence, I don’t know what is.” Sentencing is scheduled for August 4, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. before U.S. District Court Judge David Nuffer at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse. U.S. Attorney, Trina A. Higgins for the District of Utah made the announcement. The case was investigated jointly by the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office's Monticello Resident Agency, Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Nation Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Mark Y. Hirata, Angela Reddish-Day, and Stephen Dent are prosecuting the case.


title: East Stroudsburg Man Charged With Distribution Of Child Pornography

body_text: SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kevin Shain Oliver, age 21, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, was charged by a federal grand jury of distribution of child pornography. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment charges Oliver with two counts of distributing child pornography between January and February of 2022, in Monroe County. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luisa Honora Berti is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is 40 years of imprisonment, a term of 5 years of supervised release as to each count following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. # # #


title: Individual Sentenced to 27 Months in Prison for a 1.2 Million Dollar Fraud Scheme Involving the Creation of Fictitious Employees and the Misuse of Social Security Numbers

component: USAO - Puerto Rico

body_text: SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – United States District Court Judge Pedro A. Delgado sentenced Gilberto J. Meléndez-Colón to two years and three months in prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. He was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,396,008.47. Meléndez-Colón pleaded guilty on January 31, 2023. Co-defendant Ángel Pagán was sentenced to five years of probation for unlawful disclosure of his social security number. According to court documents, Meléndez-Colón conspired to defraud Company A, a local family business engaged in short and long-term construction and improvement projects. From January 2012 through July 2017, Meléndez-Colón served as the Accounting Officer in charge of Company A’s payroll. Meléndez-Colón created profiles and accounts for two fictitious employees in the company’s Web Cash Manager Program. Meléndez-Colón used two individuals’ names and social security numbers, including co-defendant ngel Pagán, to create fictitious employee profiles in the company’s Web Cash Manager Program. While creating the fictitious employee profiles, Meléndez-Colón listed his own bank account numbers to receive direct deposits for the payroll of the fictitious employees. Meléndez-Colón also altered the company’s payroll information by falsely increasing the hours worked by regular employees. Meléndez-Colón would then submit the altered and fraudulent payroll information to management for approval. Once approved, Meléndez-Colón diverted money through the Web Cash Manager Program to his own bank accounts assigned to the two fictitious employees. From January 2012 through July 2017, Meléndez-Colón diverted approximately $1,223,654.21 as part of the unlawful conspiracy. U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow of the District of Puerto Rico; Sharon MacDermott, Special Agent in Charge of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General (“SSA-OIG”); and Rebecca González Ramos, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) made the announcement. The Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General (“SSA-OIG”) and Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) investigated the case. Special Assistant United States Attorney for the Social Security Administration Vanessa D. Bonano-Rodríguez prosecuted the case. ###


title: Federal Indictment Charges 7 with Gun and Narcotics Trafficking

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – Federal and local authorities this morning arrested six defendants, the majority of whom are members of the El Sereno Rifa street gang, on federal weapons and narcotics charges stemming from a nearly yearlong undercover operation in which authorities purchased approximately 11 pounds of methamphetamine and 47 firearms, including ghost guns and so-called “cop killer” handguns. A federal grand jury on May 12 returned a 28-count indictment that charges seven defendants with various offenses, including methamphetamine trafficking, conspiring to illegally deal in firearms, and firearms trafficking. The indictment was unsealed this morning after the arrests by special agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and officers with the Los Angeles Police Department. In conjunction with this morning’s arrests, investigators conducted a series of searches that resulted in the seizure of another eight firearms. “Drug trafficking and the illegal distribution of high-powered weapons brings an unacceptable level of danger to our communities,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “The action today is our office’s second significant sweep related to gang activity this week, and it signals that we are taking concrete steps to deal with violent crime across the region. We will continue to work with our federal and local partners to address violent crime and allow our community to take back their neighborhoods from violent gangs.” “ATF reduces violent crime by partnering with local law enforcement to identify, investigate, and arrest those who illegally supply firearms to prohibited individuals, and by targeting previously convicted felons who possess firearms,” said ATF Los Angeles Field Division Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Hoffman. “ATF works tirelessly to rid our communities of this violent criminal activity by gang members. ATF is committed to its partnership with LAPD and will continue to eradicate these career criminals from our communities, so we can all feel safer.” The lead defendant in the case – Ernesto Echeverria, aka “Bad Boy” and “Gordo,” 40, of East Los Angeles – was involved in all of the transactions outlined in the indictment, typically by personally participating in the drug and gun deals, but sometimes by linking up buyers with suppliers. Between June 22, 2022, and May 2, 2023, Echeverria and his associates, in nearly two dozen transactions, sold or brokered 47 firearms, according to the indictment. Those weapons included short-barreled rifles, ghost guns with no serial numbers and an array of handguns, including three FN Five-sevens – nicknamed “cop killer” guns because the rounds fired from these firearms are capable of penetrating most types of body armor that police officers wear. Echeverria also participated in 10 methamphetamine transactions involving up to 1.3 kilograms of the drug in each transaction. In a narcotics sales involving 1.2 kilograms of methamphetamine and in eight of the gun transactions outlined in the indictment, Echeverria allegedly was assisted by Oscar Barrientos, aka “Chato,” 40, of East Los Angeles. The indictment also charges that Echeverria, Barrientos and three other defendants illegally possessed firearms after being convicted of felony offenses. In addition to Echeverria and Barrientos, the indictment charges: Fernando M. Martinez III, aka “Lil Sharky” and “Sharky,” 19, of East Los Angeles; Michael A. Murillo, 29, of Montebello; Adam W. Garcia, aka “Oso,” 43, of East Los Angeles; Arnold R. Salas, aka “Guerro,” 50, of West Covina; and Daniel Carrillo, 30, of Long Beach, who is currently being sought by authorities. The defendants arrested this morning are expected to be arraigned on this indictment this afternoon in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. An indictment contains allegations that a defendant committed a crime. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The indictment alleges 11 counts of distribution of methamphetamine, most of which carry a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a maximum sentence of life. The charges of conspiracy and engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license have a maximum penalty of five years. The offenses of trafficking in firearms and being a felon in possession of firearms and ammunition each carry a statutory maximum penalty of 15 years. The ATF; the Los Angeles Police Department, Central Bureau, Hollenbeck Division; and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Major Crimes Bureau are conducting the investigation in this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Nisha Chandran of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.


title: Cuban Citizen Sentenced for Access Device Fraud

body_text: Gulfport, Miss. -- A Cuban citizen was sentenced to serve 41 months in federal prison and to pay $18,557.25 in restitution to victims for possession of fifteen or more counterfeit or unauthorized access devices with the intent to defraud, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge David Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. According to court documents, Henry Herrera Garcia a/k/a Alex Rodriguez Perez, 31, was encountered by a Harrison County Sheriff’s Deputy at a traffic stop on March 20, 2019, on I-10 in Harrison County. Homeland Security Investigations also participated at the scene of the stop. Various items recovered from the vehicle included a credit card scanner, thumb drives, credit card skimmers, a computer, a hard drive, fraudulent credit cards, and gas pump skimming devices, as well as accessories used for downloading credit cards. The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Harrison County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones.


title: First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy to Serve as Acting U.S. Attorney

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – Rachael S. Rollins resigned today as United States Attorney for the District of Massachusetts. In accordance with the Federal Vacancies Reform Act, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy has assumed the role of Acting U.S. Attorney. Mr. Levy joined the U.S. Attorney’s Office with over 25 years of legal experience and has served as First Assistant United States Attorney since January 2022. Mr. Levy was an Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, from 1997 to 2004, serving in the Criminal Division’s Economic Crimes Unit. There, he prosecuted a wide range of white-collar crimes including health care fraud, securities and investor fraud, terrorism financing and environmental crimes.


title: SW Georgia Resident Charged with Fentanyl Distribution Resulting from  GBI-led Investigation

body_text: ALBANY, Ga. – A federal criminal complaint charging an Albany resident with possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine was unsealed this week. Larry Sparks aka “Detroit,” 45, had his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Court Judge Thomas Q. Langstaff at the U.S. Courthouse in Albany on May 18 and was ordered detained by the Court. Sparks is charged by criminal complaint with one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, Sparks faces a maximum sentence of life in prison. Sparks is scheduled to have his detention hearing in Macon, Georgia, next week. The criminal complaint was unsealed on May 18. According to court proceedings and the criminal complaint, in March 2023, a GBI-led wire-tap undercover investigation began into the defendant’s alleged distribution of fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine in Southwest Georgia from his residence at 1501 Pinecrest Dr. in Albany and other locations in the city. Sparks is allegedly associated with several controlled substances overdoses resulting in deaths dating back to 2018. A federal search warrant was executed at the Pinecrest Dr. residence on May 16; agents seized 1,265 grams of fentanyl, 3,027 grams of methamphetamine and seven firearms. Sparks is a convicted felon. The case was investigated by the GBI Southwestern Drug Enforcement Office in Albany, the DEA, the Albany Police Department, the Dougherty County Sheriff’s Office, the Dougherty County Police Department, the Dougherty County District Attorney’s Office, the Americus Police Department, the Colquitt County Sheriff’s Office and the Crisp County Sheriff’s Office. Criminal Chief Leah McEwen is prosecuting the case. A complaint is only an allegation of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Two Men Plead Guilty to  Large Scale Drug Trafficking

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that HAKIM SHABAZZ , age 46, of New Orleans, and RENE WASHINGTON , age 54, of Houston, pleaded guilty on May 16, 2023 before United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey to violating the Controlled Substances Act. According to court records, law enforcement officers stopped WASHINGTON in Calcasieu Parish as he traveled from New Orleans to Houston on Interstate 10. Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office officers seized $948,174 from WASHINGTON’S vehicle, in addition to several cell phones. Those phones contained text messages about drug trafficking, as well as ledgers. DEA agents in New Orleans executed a search warrant at a business where Washington visited shortly before leaving for Houston and found almost 250 grams of crack cocaine and another $84,803 in cash. By analyzing text messages and phone records, agents determined that SHABAZZ , who operated an auto body shop, was receiving the shipments of cocaine. Both men admitted that their conspiracy involved between 50 and 150 kilograms of cocaine. Sentencing is set for September 5, 2023. SHABAZZ and WASHINGTON each face a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release. The count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Calcasieu Parish Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Two Defendants Charged in Nationwide Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (“PUA”) Scheme

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Ardavan Alamoutinia, 33, of Hummelstown, PA, and Aryanah Davison, 23, of Harrisburg, PA, were charged by Indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud, ten counts of mail fraud, one count of theft of government money, and eight counts of aggravated identity theft, all stemming from their scheme to fraudulently obtain emergency funds meant for those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. The Indictment alleges that Alamoutinia and Davison used stolen identities to file over 500 fraudulent PUA applications. These over 500 fraudulent applications were filed using at least 375 identities of current or former employees of Company 1. A co-conspirator stole these identities from Company 1 and transferred them to Davison. After receiving the identities, Alamoutinia and Davison filed or caused to be filed the fraudulent PUA applications in 27 different states resulting in a loss of at least $2,886,876. According to the Indictment, after the fraudulent applications were filed, the respective state workforce agencies responsible for administering the PUA benefits dispersed funds based upon the fraudulent PUA applications either by direct deposits or mailing checks and PUA debit cards. Defendants then cashed the checks, deposited the checks, received the direct deposits into bank accounts controlled by them, and collected and possessed the PUA debit card issued on the applications. Defendants also made direct expenditures using the PUA debit cards, withdrew the money from those cards at ATMs, and transferred the money to financial accounts controlled by them. The Indictment also alleges that Alamoutinia and Davison converted at least $2,500,000 of the fraudulent proceeds in this case. Alamoutinia and Davison spent the fraudulent proceeds, in part, on hundreds of thousands of dollars in cryptocurrency purchases and on a luxury sports vehicle. The case was investigated by the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, Department of Homeland Security – Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Inspection Service, National Aeronautics and Space Administration – Office of Inspector General, and the Social Security Administration – Office of Inspector General, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Timothy Lanni. An indictment, information, or criminal complaint is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Persons with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .