title: Adam Runsdorf and Woodfield Distribution, LLC, Agree to Pay $2.475 million to Resolve Allegations They Failed to Properly Account for Controlled Substances

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – Adam Runsdorf and his companies, Florida-based drug wholesaler Woodfield Distribution, LLC and associated operations in Texas, surrendered their seven Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) registrations and agreed to pay $2.475 million in civil fines to resolve violations of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA). These CSA requirements are designed to prevent the diversion of controlled substances. Beginning in 2013 through 2016, Woodfield Distribution’s Florida location violated multiple CSA provisions, and as a result entered into a Memorandum of Agreement with the DEA to prevent future CSA violations. In 2018 and 2020, the DEA discovered additional CSA violations at Woodfield Distribution’s Florida and Texas locations. These CSA violations included: failure to account for over 120 million dosage units of controlled substances; failure to design and operate a system for monitoring suspicious orders; failure to notify the DEA of over 200,000 dosage units of stolen controlled substances; falsifying importation documents and the illegal importation of over 200 million dosage units of controlled substances; failure to properly store and secure controlled substances; lack of complete and accurate records; and failure to report controlled substance transactions and sales. In August 2021, the DEA issued three Immediate Suspension Orders (ISO) for Woodfield Distribution’s Texas Distributor and Importer Registrations, as well as Manufacturer Registration for Woodfield Pharmaceuticals, LLC. The ISOs were issued for Woodfield’s failure to maintain effect controls and procedures against the theft and diversion of controlled substances and the imminent danger to public health and safety. ‘ In August 2022, a separate criminal investigation by DEA resulted in Adam Runsdorf and Woodfield Pharmaceuticals pleading guilty in the Eastern District of Texas to criminal charges of conspiracy, trafficking in counterfeit drugs, and money laundering conspiracy. According to the criminal indictment, from April 2014 until August 2021, Runsdorf, the owner and President of Woodfield Pharmaceutical based in Boca Raton, Florida, conspired with drug traffickers in Houston, Texas, to distribute misbranded and counterfeit cough syrup. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani for the Southern District of Texas, Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter of the DEA Miami Division, and Daniel Comeaux, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Houston Division announced the resolution. The DEA Miami Field Division, West Palm Beach District Office; DEA Houston Division Office, and DEA Galveston Resident Office investigated this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Lavine from the Southern District of Florida and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Venezia from the Southern District of Texas handled the civil matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Ross, Jonathan Lee, and Robert Austin Wells from the Eastern District of Texas prosecuted the criminal case. A copy of the agreement is available at the link below. Agreement ###


title: Man Indicted Following Seizure of Almost 130 Pounds of Methamphetamine During Traffic Stop

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Rudy Vasquez Cervantes, 20, of Mexicali, Baja California, Mexico, was indicted last week by a federal grand jury in Phoenix on one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. The indictment alleges that, on June 30, 2023, Cervantes was traveling by vehicle when he was stopped by the Arizona Department of Public Safety. A subsequent search of his vehicle revealed packages hidden under the floor between the back seat and trunk. The packages tested positive for the presence of methamphetamine and weighed a total of 128.75 pounds. A conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and up to lifetime supervised release. An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Yuma Office, is conducting the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa E. Jennis, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-23-01113-PHX-DJH RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-120_Cervantes # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news


title: Former Media Producer Sentenced for Extortion and Obstruction of Justice

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A former media producer was sentenced today to four years and three months in prison for extortion and obstruction of justice related to his involvement in a scheme to obtain money in exchange for preventing the release of chat messages involving senior officials in the government of Puerto Rico. According to court documents, in June 2019, Sixto Jorge Díaz Colón, 54, of San Juan, attempted to extort a public official in the government of Puerto Rico. Díaz Colón attempted to secure a $300,000 payment and other things of value from the official in exchange for the assurance that a third-party would not publicly disclose certain messages containing damaging information about various public officials in the government. When approached by the FBI in July 2019, Díaz Colón deleted messages containing information about his involvement in the scheme before surrendering his cellular telephone to the authorities. Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow for the District of Puerto Rico, Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Special Agent in Charge Joseph Gonzalez of the FBI San Juan Field Office made the announcement. The FBI San Juan Field Office investigated the case. Trial Attorney Michael N. Lang of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Myriam Fernández-González for the District of Puerto Rico prosecuted the case. Former PIN Trial Attorney James Pearce, former Trial Attorney Byron Jones of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Henwood for the District of Puerto Rico provided assistance.


title: Cleveland Man Found Guilty of Distributing Fentanyl and Cocaine that Resulted in Death

component: USAO - Ohio, Northern

body_text: CLEVELAND - U.S. Attorney Rebecca C. Lutzko announced today that Willie A. Pratt, 34, of Cleveland, Ohio, was found guilty of one count of distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death, one count of conspiring to possess fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin, and two counts of possession with the intent to distribute controlled substances. The trial lasted four days and was presided over by U.S. District Judge John R. Adams. According to court documents and trial testimony, on October 30, 2021, Pratt sold cocaine and fentanyl to the victim who died as a result of the use of those substances. Further, on November 1, 2021, Defendant engaged in conspiracy or agreement with another person to distribute controlled substances, specifically, fentanyl, acetyl fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin. Defendant then aided and abetted the possession of such substances with the intent to distribute them. Finally, on November 1, 2021, upon his arrest, Defendant himself possessed cocaine and fentanyl with the intent to distribute it. Sentencing is scheduled for November 21, 2023. Pratt faces a mandatory minimum sentence of twenty years in prison, although his sentence will be determined by many factors and may be higher than the mandatory minimum. The judge will determine the appropriate sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other factors. The investigation preceding the indictment was conducted by the Rocky River Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Payum Doroodian and Yasmine Makridis.


title: Altamonte Springs Dentist Convicted Of Tax Evasion

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Frantz Brignol guilty of tax evasion. Brignol faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for November 9, 2023, before Senior United States District Judge Gregory A. Presnell. Brignol was indicted on November 22, 2022. According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Brignol amassed more than $600,000 in tax liabilities with the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). Between 2014 and 2020, he evaded his tax payments by hiding hundreds of thousands of dollars in his mother’s bank accounts (for which he had signatory authority), trading funds overseas in his mother’s name, and making materially false statements to the IRS on financial disclosure forms. This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Hannah Nowalk and William S. Hamilton.


title: California Woman Indicted for Possessing More Than 110 Pounds of Methamphetamine and Nearly Three Pounds of Cocaine During Traffic Stop

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Martha Betancourth Angulo, 34, of Torrance, California, was indicted last week on one count each of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine. The indictment alleges that, on June 29, 2023, Angulo was traveling on Interstate 8 in Yuma County, Arizona when she was stopped by the Arizona Department of Public Safety. During the encounter, officers found 90 packages hidden within Angulo’s vehicle. Field tests on the contents of the packages revealed the presence of methamphetamine and cocaine. The total weight of the methamphetamine, including packaging, was 112.87 pounds. The total weight of the cocaine, including packaging, was 2.99 pounds. Each count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and up to lifetime supervised release. An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The Drug Enforcement Administration, Yuma Office, is conducting the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph K. Nwoga, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-23-01112-PHX-JJT RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-121_Angulo # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Leading Crips Member Sentenced for Methamphetamine Conspiracy

component: Criminal Investigative Division (FBI)

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – A Los Angeles man was sentenced today to 24 years in prison for his leading role in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy. According to court documents, from approximately fall 2018 through September 2019, Kevin Day, a/k/a “Prince Hauncho,” 34, was at the top of a multi-state, multi-kilogram methamphetamine conspiracy involving a distribution organization that moved over 11 kilograms of dangerous and highly addictive controlled substances from Crips gang sources in California to the Hampton Roads area, where it was distributed to local dealers and users. Day, a California-based Grape Street Crips gang member, led the California side of the conspiracy in which he shipped high-purity methamphetamine through the United States mail with the help of a U.S. Postal Service worker, Laquisha McFrazier, he recruited Day and his co-conspirators also used couriers to smuggle fentanyl into Hampton Roads on commercial air flights. In attempts to conceal their drug proceeds, members of the conspiracy laundered thousands of dollars by electronically transferring money between themselves. McFrazier pleaded guilty to her role in the conspiracy and was sentenced to 98 months’ imprisonment. Day’s co-conspirator Xavier Howell was convicted by a federal jury and sentenced to 30 years in prison. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; and Mark G. Solesky, Chief of Chesapeake Police, made the announcement after sentencing by Senior U.S. District Judge John A. Gibney, Jr. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amanda Cheney and John F. Butler prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:20-cr-11.


title: Maryland MS-13 Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Participating in a Racketeering Conspiracy, Including Murder

component: Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces

body_text: Greenbelt , Maryland – MS-13 member Kevin Alexander Castillo Calderon, a/k/a “Fantasma,” “Ghost,” “Eterno,” and “Josue Argueta Gonzalez,” age 25, of Colesville, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to a racketeering conspiracy, including a murder. The sentences were 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, the 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, as well as throughout the United States. In Maryland and elsewhere, MS-13 members are organized into “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. According to his plea agreement, Castillo Calderon was a member and associate of Weedams Locos Salvatrucha, (“WLS”), an MS-13 clique operating primarily in Adelphi, Maryland. As detailed in court documents, on August 8, 2020, WLS members, including Castillo Calderon, WLS leader Brayan Alexander Torres and Franklyn Sanchez, were gathered at a park in Prince George’s County, Maryland. Castillo Calderon, Torres, Sanchez and other WLS members agreed to murder Victim 4, who was suspected of cooperating with law enforcement and to whom Sanchez owed a debt. Sanchez and another MS-13 member murdered Victim 4, then WLS members dragged Victim 4’s body to a stream and left it there. Castillo Calderon then picked up a large rock and dropped it on Victim 4’s head. As he was leaving the woods, Sanchez was concerned that his DNA may have been 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, other WLS members were called and ordered to bring shovels to the wooded area, where they dug a hole and buried Victim 4’s body. In addition, at Torres’ direction, Castillo Calderon took the guns used to shoot Victim 4 and Victim 4’s cell phone, put them in a bag he was carrying and disposed of the evidence. Victim 4’s body was later recovered with a bullet wound to the head. Castillo Calderon was also responsible for collecting extortion payments, or “rents,” from extortion victims on behalf of WLS, knowing that the victims making extortion payments did so under the threat of death or bodily injury by members of WLS. For example, gang members used baseball bats to impose rents and sometimes collected rent while flashing firearms or otherwise making it known that they were carrying weapons. Castillo Calderon and the government have agreed that, if the Court accepts his plea, Castillo Calderon will be sentenced to 26 years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge Paula Xinis has scheduled sentencing for November 7, 2023 at 2:30 p.m. Co-defendant Torres, a/k/a “Spooky,” age 29, of Adelphi, Maryland, is expected to be sentenced to 28 years in federal prison at his sentencing on September 13, 2023. Torres will also be required to pay restitution in the full amount of the victims’ losses, including any funeral costs incurred by Victim 4’s estate. On May 19, 2023, Judge Xinis sentenced Franklyn Edgardo Sanchez, a/k/a “Freddy,” “Magic,” “Miclo,” and “Delinquente,” age 26, of Adelphi, Maryland, to 28 years in federal prison and 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. 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 serve 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 U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Montgomery County Police Department for their assistance. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Joel Crespo, and Trial Attorney 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: Illegal Possession of Methamphetamine Sends Houston Man to Federal Prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: LAFAYETTE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the sentencing today of a Houston man for illegal possession of methamphetamine in the Western District of Louisiana. United States District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Paul Powell , 29, to 135 months (11 years, 3 months) in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Powell pleaded guilty to the charge on April 21, 2023. On September 4, 2019, law enforcement agents with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office observed a black Mercedes Benz being driven on the roadway without two working headlights as required by state law. The driver of the Mercedes was later determined to be Powell. Agents observed the vehicle stop at a residence and Powell went inside for a brief time, then returned to the vehicle. Law enforcement agents activated their lights and sirens in an attempt to stop the vehicle, but Powell refused to stop and began to flee from agents traveling at a high rate of speed. Powell continued to flee and when arriving on Elephant Walk Road in Lafayette, exited the vehicle, along with an unknown passenger and they fled on foot running through several yards and jumping several fences. Powell was apprehended and placed in handcuffs. A probable cause search was conducted of his vehicle and agents located a digital scale and a bag containing methamphetamine. Law enforcement agents questioned Powell the next day and he admitted that the methamphetamine belonged to him. The suspected narcotics were sent to the DEA Laboratory for analysis, and it was determined that the substance was positive for methamphetamine and had a net weight of 210 grams plus or minus 0.2 grams. The case was investigated by the DEA and Lafayette Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte A. Murphy. # # #


title: Foreign National Charged for Visa Fraud Scheme

body_text: An indictment charging an Israeli national with leading a visa fraud scheme to facilitate the illegal entry and employment of noncitizens in the United States was unsealed today in the Eastern District of Virginia. According to court documents, Shai Cohen, 39, allegedly organized, led, and worked with others to recruit and facilitate the illegal entry of Israeli citizens into the United States under false pretenses. Cohen and his co-conspirators allegedly assisted noncitizens in fraudulently obtaining B-1/B-2 tourist/visitor visas by misrepresenting the true purpose of their travel to the United States, which was illegal employment. Cohen and his co-conspirators are alleged to have then assisted the noncitizens with travel to the United States. Upon arrival, the noncitizens were employed at various kiosks owned and operated by Cohen in malls in Virginia and Maryland. The noncitizens who engaged in illegal employment were allegedly primarily compensated for their work by under-the-table cash payments or the transfer of money to stored value payment cards, rather than through a legitimate payroll system. Cohen also allegedly provided housing and transportation for the noncitizens to and from work in the United States. Cohen was arrested in Israel pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition. In August, he was extradited to the Eastern District of Virginia. Cohen is charged with conspiracy to defraud and commit offenses against the United States; bringing aliens to the United States for financial gain; encouraging and inducing aliens to unlawfully come to, enter, and reside in the United Sates for financial gain; harboring illegal aliens; and money laundering conspiracy. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Aber for the Eastern District of Virginia; Special Agent in Charge Derek W. Gordon of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington Field Office; and Acting Special Agent in Charge Troy W. Springer of the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG), National Capital Region made the announcement. The HSI Washington Field Office and DOL-OIG are investigating the case. Trial Attorney Clayton O’Connor of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Raizza Ty for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the government of Israel to secure the arrest and extradition of Cohen. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Attorney General Merrick B. Garland Statement Regarding the 58th Anniversary of the Voting Rights Act

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: The Justice Department issued the following statement from Attorney General Merrick B. Garland ahead of the 58th anniversary of the Voting Rights Act: “The right of all eligible citizens to vote and to elect representatives of their own choice is the foundation of our democracy. The Voting Rights Act of 1965 was signed into law 58 years ago this weekend, with the goal of making real the 15th Amendment’s guarantee that no American citizen be denied the right to vote on account of race. That law, enacted thanks to the urgent calls to action of the Civil Rights Movement, gave the Justice Department some of its most important authorities to protect the right to vote, including Section 5 of the law, its “preclearance” provision. That provision required jurisdictions with a history of suppressing voting rights to obtain preclearance from the Justice Department or a court before making any changes in voting procedures. Between 1965 and 2006, the Justice Department blocked almost 1,200 proposed voting laws in those jurisdictions in order to protect the fundamental right to vote. With the Supreme Court’s decision Shelby County v. Holder in 2013, the Justice Department effectively lost this powerful tool. And in the wake of that decision, states across the country advanced voting measures that have made it harder for citizens to cast a vote that counts, measures that the Justice Department likely would have been able to block or deter had the preclearance provision still been in place. The Justice Department therefore continues to urge Congress to restore the tools we need to effectively protect the right to vote. But we are not waiting for Congress to act. The Justice Department is using every authority we have to protect the franchise for all voters. We have doubled the size of the Civil Rights Division’s enforcement staff for protecting voting rights. The Department has brought voting rights cases and filed statements of interest and amicus briefs in courts across the country. We have sought to address discriminatory voting laws, to protect language access at the ballot box, and to ensure that voters with disabilities are able to exercise the right to vote. And we have provided guidance and outreach to state and local election officials and the public about federal voting rights laws. The Justice Department will never stop working to ensure that all eligible voters can cast a vote, that all lawful votes are counted, and that every voter has access to accurate information. Our democracy depends on it.”


component: Criminal - Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section

body_text: WASHINGTON – A former media producer was sentenced today to four years and three months in prison for extortion and obstruction of justice related to his involvement in a scheme to obtain money in exchange for preventing the release of chat messages involving senior officials in the government of Puerto Rico. According to court documents, in June 2019, Sixto Jorge Díaz Colón, 54, of San Juan, attempted to extort a public official in the government of Puerto Rico. Díaz Colón attempted to secure a $300,000 payment and other things of value from the official in exchange for the assurance that a third-party would not publicly disclose certain messages containing damaging information about various public officials in the government. When approached by the FBI in July 2019, Díaz Colón deleted messages containing information about his involvement in the scheme before surrendering his cellular telephone to the authorities. Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney W. Stephen Muldrow for the District of Puerto Rico, Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Special Agent in Charge Joseph Gonzalez of the FBI San Juan Field Office made the announcement. The FBI San Juan Field Office investigated the case. Trial Attorney Michael N. Lang of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section (PIN) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Myriam Fernández-González for the District of Puerto Rico prosecuted the case. Former PIN Trial Attorney James Pearce, former Trial Attorney Byron Jones of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Henwood for the District of Puerto Rico provided assistance. ###


title: Foreign National Extradited to Face Charges of Immigration Fraud, Human Smuggling, and Money Laundering Conspiracy

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – An Israeli national made his initial appearance in federal court today for charges stemming from smuggling, harboring and employing illegal workers. According to court documents, Shai Cohen, 39, allegedly organized, led, and worked with others to recruit and facilitate the illegal entry of Israeli citizens into the United States under false pretenses. Cohen and his co-conspirators allegedly assisted noncitizens in fraudulently obtaining B-1/B-2 tourist/visitor visas by misrepresenting the true purpose of their travel to the United States, which was illegal employment. Cohen and his co-conspirators are alleged to have then assisted the noncitizens with travel to the United States. Upon arrival, the noncitizens were employed at various kiosks owned and operated by Cohen in malls in Virginia and Maryland. The noncitizens who engaged in illegal employment were allegedly primarily compensated for their work by under-the-table cash payments or the transfer of money to stored value payment cards, rather than a legitimate payroll system. Cohen also allegedly provided housing and transportation for the noncitizens to and from work in the United States. Cohen was arrested in Israel pursuant to a U.S. request for his extradition. In August 2023, he was extradited to the Eastern District of Virginia. Cohen is charged with conspiracy to defraud and commit offenses against the United States, bringing aliens to the United States for financial gain, encouraging and inducing aliens to unlawfully come to enter and reside in the United Sates for financial gain, harboring illegal aliens, and money laundering conspiracy. If convicted, Cohen faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Kenneth A. Polite, Jr., Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Troy W. Springer, Acting Special Agent in Charge, National Capital Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General; and Special Agent in Charge Derek W. Gordon of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, Washington Field Office, made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Raizza K. Ty and Trial Attorney Clayton O’Connor of the Justice Department’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with the government of Israel to secure the arrest and extradition of Cohen. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:16-cr-114. An indictment is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.


title: Six Genovese Organized Crime Family Defendants Sentenced For Racketeering

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that Genovese Family Captains NICHOLAS CALISI and RALPH BALSAMO, Genovese Family Soldiers MICHAEL MESSINA and JOHN CAMPANELLA, and Genovese Family Associates MICHAEL POLI and THOMAS POLI were sentenced by U.S. District Judge John G. Koeltl following their earlier guilty pleas to racketeering conspiracy. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “La Cosa Nostra and its various Families are criminal organizations that prey on the public. These sentences demonstrate that those who seek to enrich themselves through allegiance to such organizations will face not only jail time but also real financial consequences.” According to the Superseding Indictment, the defendants’ statements when pleading guilty, and statements made in related court filings and proceedings: The Genovese Organized Crime Family is part of a nationwide criminal organization known by various names, including La Cosa Nostra (“LCN”) and the “Mafia,” which operates through entities known as “Families.” Like other LCN Families, the Genovese Organized Crime Family operates through groups of individuals known as “crews.” Each “crew” has as its leader a person known as a “Captain” and consists of “made” members, known as “Soldiers.” Soldiers are aided in their criminal endeavors by other trusted individuals, known as “associates,” who sometimes are referred to as “connected” or identified as “with” a Soldier or other member of the Family. Associates participate in the various activities of the crew and its members. In order for an associate to become a made member of the Family, the associate typically needs to demonstrate the ability to generate income for the Family and/or that the associate is capable of committing acts of violence. A Captain is responsible for supervising the criminal activities of his crew, resolving disputes between and among members of the Family, resolving disputes between members of the Family and members of other Families and other criminal organizations, and providing Soldiers and associates with support and protection. In return, the Captain typically receives a share of the illegal earnings of each of his crew’s Soldiers and associates. At times relevant to the charges in the Superseding Indictment, NICHOLAS CALISI and RALPH BALSAMO were Captains in the Genovese Family, MICHAEL MESSINA and JOHN CAMPANELLA were Soldiers in the Genovese Family, and MICHAEL POLI and THOMAS POLI were associates of the Genovese Family. Members of the Genovese Family, including CALISI, BALSAMO, MESSINA, and CAMPANELLA, and associates MICHAEL POLI and THOMAS POLI, engaged in extortionate extensions of credit, financing extortionate extensions of credit, collecting extensions of credit by extortion, extortion, operating illegal gambling businesses, and the transmission of gambling information. * * * CALISI, 64, of Boca Raton, Florida, was sentenced principally to two years in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to forfeit $40,000. BALSAMO, 52, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced principally to 34 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to forfeit $20,000. MESSINA, 70, of New Fairfield, Connecticut, was sentenced principally to 18 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to forfeit $200,000. CAMPANELLA, 48, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced principally to 13 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to forfeit $40,000. MICHAEL POLI, 38, of Hawthorne, New York, was sentenced principally to 31 months in prison, three years of supervised release, ordered to forfeit $175,000, and ordered to pay a $15,000 fine. THOMAS POLI, 65, of the Bronx, New York, was sentenced principally to 22 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to forfeit $200,000. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Office of the New York Attorney General’s Organized Crime Task Force and the Kings County District Attorney’s Office and thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its assistance in this investigation. The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Celia V. Cohen, Rushmi Bhaskaran, and Justin Rodriguez, as well as Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Pamela Murray, are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Second Man Admits Drug Conspiracy that Killed Three in St. Louis

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A second man involved in a drug robbery conspiracy that resulted in the fatal shooting of three people in 2021 pleaded guilty Friday to federal drug and gun charges. Demorion Little, 24, pleaded guilty in front of U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk to one felony marijuana distribution conspiracy count and one count of aiding and abetting the discharge of one or more firearms in furtherance of the marijuana trafficking conspiracy. Those firearm discharges resulted in the death of Rocoby Rodgers on Feb. 25, 2021 and Kortlin Williams and Johnnie Jones on March 16, 2021, Little’s plea agreement says. In his plea, Little admitted conspiring with his co-defendant, Antaveon Bernard Le'Vell Kent, to steal and sell marijuana. The pair used Facebook to communicate with each other, pick their targets and then arrange to buy marijuana from their victims. On Feb. 25, 2021, Little contacted Rodgers via Facebook Messenger to ask about purchasing quarter-pound packages of marijuana. They arranged to meet in the 2300 block of Blair Avenue in St. Louis. Police later found Rodgers dead in his car. That night, Little used his Facebook account to advertise that he had marijuana for sale. Kent and Little arranged to meet Williams and Jones on March 16, 2021 in the 1100 block of Montgomery Street. When the victims arrived, Kent and Little fired into their vehicle, killing Williams and Jones and injuring a third occupant, Little’s plea agreement says. Kent pleaded guilty last year to conspiracy to distribute marijuana, attempting to possess with the intent to distribute marijuana and two charges of possession and discharge of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime that resulted in the fatal shootings of Williams and Jones. In February, Judge Pitlyk sentenced Kent, now 23, of Florissant, to 26 years in prison. Little is scheduled to be sentenced November 3, and both sides have agreed to recommend a 28-year prison sentence. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police.


title: Lawrence Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison For Drug Trafficking

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A Lawrence man was sentenced in federal court for drug trafficking in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces. Santo Evangelista Soto, 36, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Joesph N. Laplante to 60 months in prison and three years of supervised release. On February 21, 2023, Soto plead guilty to distributing heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. From February 12, 2020 through October 9, 2020, the defendant conspired with other individuals to sell heroin, fentanyl, and methamphetamine in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. On one occasion during the investigation, the defendant sold 1,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills that contained heroin and methamphetamine. Soto was arrested by the Drug Enforcement Administration on October 9, 2020. At the time of the arrest, Soto intended to sell one and a half kilograms of crystal methamphetamine. “The defendant has a long history of drug dealing, and has already been convicted for drug trafficking twice,” U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young. “Today’s lengthy sentence ensures he will serve a significant period of incarceration for this serious crime.” The DEA’s Manchester District Office, New Hampshire State Police’s Narcotics Investigations and Mobile Enforcement Units and the Dover Police Department led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis is prosecuting the case. ###


title: St. Louis County Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Statutory Rape of Foster Child

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Friday sentenced a man from St. Louis County, Missouri who impregnated a minor and sexually abused her when she was in foster care to 27 years in prison. Edward L. Wiseman, 43, sexually abused a minor for multiple years and impregnated her when she was 14. After she was placed in foster care, Wiseman sent her naked pictures of himself and requested the same from her. He then arranged to meet her for sex when she was 16. That victim’s younger sister told authorities that Wiseman had also sexually abused her. Wiseman disputes those allegations. Law enforcement officers later found child pornography on Wiseman’s phone. Judge Ross told Wiseman in Friday’s hearing that his conduct was “horrendous” and that he represented a “continuing threat” to the community. Wiseman, 43, pleaded guilty in March in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to two felonies: coercion and enticement of a minor and solicitation of child pornography. “Today, Mr. Wiseman will begin to pay for his crimes against an innocent child,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Gibson of the U.S. Secret Service’s St. Louis Field Office. “The Secret Service is proud to support Project Safe Childhood, and we commend our law enforcement partners for their tireless work to put an end to this devastating abuse.” The U.S. Secret Service, the North County Police Cooperative and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Felon imprisoned for possessing prohibited firearm

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 27-year-old San Diego man has been ordered to federal prison after illegally possessing a short-barreled shotgun, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Chris Davila Jr. pleaded guilty April 24. U.S. District Judge Drew B. Tipton has now ordered Davila to serve a total of 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. In imposing the sentence, the court admonished the Davila about the dangerousness of his conduct and the promise of future encounters with law enforcement if he continues. On Feb. 26, 2022, authorities conducted a traffic stop and soon discovered a short-barreled shotgun between Davila’s driver’s seat and the center console of the car. Davila is a previously convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law. The investigation revealed that on a previous occasion, Davila had also been discovered with a prohibited firearm in his vehicle - a “sawed-off” shotgun. “The firearms recovered in this investigation were especially dangerous,” said Special Agent in Charge Fred Milanowski of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. “Our community was made much safer by getting those firearms and the convicted felon who possessed them off the streets.” Davila remains in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. ATF conducted the investigation along with police departments in San Diego and Alice. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Martin prosecuted the case.


title: Two Charged with Defrauding Buyer of Personal Protective Equipment During Height of Covid-19 Pandemic

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – On August 2, 2023, U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced the charging of FRANK LABRUZZO and CYNTHIA CARONNA for conspiracy to commit wire fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 1343 and 371. The bill of information alleges that LABRUZZO , CARONNA , and a resident of the United Kingdom, defrauded a business seeking to purchase personal protective equipment (PPE) at a time when demand for PPE had dramatically increased as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the bill of information, CARONNA and the UK resident formed a business venture to offer the sale of PPE, and selected LABRUZZO to be the venture’s escrow agent. The conspirators allegedly agreed that LABRUZZO (who was an attorney and as well as an investigator with the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office) would present himself to would-be buyers of PPE as a trustworthy escrow agent who would perform traditional escrow services. More specifically, the conspirators agreed to tell would -be buyers that they could deposit their funds in LABRUZZO’s escrow bank account for the purpose of purchasing PPE; that their funds would be safeguarded in the account until the PPE was satisfactorily delivered to them; and, that if the PPE was not satisfactorily delivered to the would -be buyers, LABRUZZO would promptly return the funds from the escrow account to them. It is further alleged in the bill of information that CARONNA and LABRUZZO agreed that LABRUZZO would disperse the would-be buyer’s funds despite the would-be buyers having neither received PPE nor consented to the disbursements. CARONNA , LABRUZZO , and Co-conspirator 1 also allegedly agreed that each would receive portions of the would-be buyer’s funds without the would-be buyers’ knowledge or consent. Finally, according to the bill of information, LABRUZZO , at CARONNA’s direction, repeatedly disbursed the escrowed funds to various persons and entities, including disbursements to LABRUZZO and CARONNA . Conspiracy is punishable by up to five years imprisonment, followed by up to three years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the bill of information is merely a charge and that each defendant’s guilt must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. In May 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 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 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 via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chandra Menon of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Local man faces life for pulling firearm during robbery

body_text: HOUSTON – A 20-year-old Houston man has pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm during the robbery of a local discount store, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. On Dec. 4, 2022, Marvieon Simien entered the Family Dollar on Hiram Clarke Road in Houston. He grabbed several items and approached the register but departed without them. He returned to his vehicle for several minutes before re-entering the store wearing a mask. He selected another item from the shelf and walked to the register. He then pulled his mask down, spoke to the store clerk and retrieved the handgun from his waistband. She felt intimidated and was in fear for her life, so she backed away from him. At that time, Simien reached over the counter, removed a nominal amount of money from the register and fled the scene. Video footage linked Simien to the robbery. The clerk was also able to identify him. The gun and stolen cash were never recovered. U.S. District Judge David Hittner will impose sentencing Oct. 26. At that time Simien, faces a minimum of five years and up to life in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. Simien has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Houston Police Department Task Force conducted the investigation. This is an example of coordination between law enforcement who are part of the Houston Law Enforcement Violent Crime Initiative which combines personnel and resources from numerous federal, state and local agencies. The goal is to proactively fight and reduce violent crime across the Greater Houston area by targeting the region’s most violent offenders, augmenting investigative and prosecutorial efforts and enhancing training, public awareness and education. It stems from the Project Safe Neighborhoods ( PSN ) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. 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. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joe Porto and Brian Hrach prosecuted the case.


title: Second Manchester Man Charged on Drug Distribution Offenses

body_text: CONCORD – A second Manchester man has been charged in connection with the distribution of fentanyl in New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announced. Joseph Goffinet, Jr., 53, was arrested and charged with distribution of controlled substances and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances in connection with the sale of fentanyl. Goffinet, Jr. made an initial appearance in federal court in Concord on Friday, August 4, 2023, and was detained. According to the charging documents, on one occasion Goffinet, Jr. conspired with Walter Velez to distribute fentanyl. Velez was charged with the distribution of fentanyl and crack cocaine on July 26, 2023. The charges of distribution of a controlled substance and conspiracy each provide for a sentence of at least 5 years and up to 40 years in prison, at least 4 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $5,000,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Department of Homeland Security Investigations led the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey Ward is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Jewelry Store Owner Pleads Guilty to Evading Cash Reporting Rule

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The owner of two jewelry stores in the Independence Center mall in Independence, Mo., pleaded guilty in federal court today to evading federal reporting requirements for cash transactions. Junaid “Jay” Sahibzada, 37, of Lenexa, Kan., waived his right to an indictment and pleaded guilty before U.S. Chief District Judge Beth Phillips to a federal information that charges him with one count of evading federal reporting requirements for businesses that conduct cash transactions above $10,000 by failing to file Form 8300. Form 8300 provides valuable information to the Internal Revenue Service and the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) in their efforts to combat money laundering. Sahibzada co-owns Gold-N-Time, a kiosk shop, and Jawa Jewelers, a storefront, both located in the Independence Center mall. By pleading guilty today, Sahibzada admitted that he met with an undercover federal agent posing as a heroin dealer interested in laundering money by making cash purchases of jewelry from Gold-N-Time, transporting the jewelry to Chicago, Illinois, and then reselling it for cash. The undercover agent told Sahibzada he did not want any government forms filed for his purchases, which Sahibzada said would not be a problem because no one would know about cash purchases. The undercover agent purchased two pieces of custom jewelry from Sahibzada for $21,100. Sahibzada did not subsequently file or instruct any employee to file a Form 8300 for the cash transaction. Sahibzada later admitted to federal agents that he had never filed a Form 8300, despite having completed multiple jewelry cash transactions exceeding $10,000. Under federal statutes, Sahibzada is subject to a sentence of up to five years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Sahibzada must pay a money judgment of $21,100, which is the total amount involved in the undercover operation. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Constance and Tony Brown. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation. Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.


title: Cedar Rapids Drug User with Loaded Firearm Sent to Federal Prison

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who possessed a firearm as an unlawful drug user was sentenced today to 30 months in federal prison. Silas Paul Griffin, age 31, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 8, 2023 guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Evidence at the sentencing hearing showed that on January 31, 2022, law enforcement stopped a vehicle in Marion, Iowa. Griffin was in the front passenger seat. On his person, officers found hydrocodone pills (prescribed to someone else), marijuana, and a loaded magazine. Officers then searched underneath Griffin’s seat and found a loaded gun. Griffin admitted that he possessed the gun. He later gave a urine sample that tested positive for the presence of THC and benzodiazepines. Griffin was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Griffin was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment and must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Griffin is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. 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 prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Marion Police Department. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 22-CR-45. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Former Labor Union President Gets 18 Months in Federal Prison for Embezzling More Than $200,000

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: BENTON, Ill. – A U.S. District judge sentenced a former president of the Alton chapter of the AFSCME labor union to 18 months imprisonment after he admitted to embezzling more than $200,000 from the organization and using the funds for personal expenses. Byron Clemons, Sr., 36, of Alton, pleaded guilty to one count of Interstate Transportation of Stolen Money. In addition to the prison sentence, he will serve two years of supervised release and was ordered to pay $202,100 in restitution. In rejecting the defendant’s request for probation, the sentencing judge stated that she hopes a message is sent that individuals who steal from non-profits will be held accountable. “Clemons abused his position as the labor union’s president to embezzle funds, enrich himself and get cash to gamble at casinos,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Jim Cutchin. “I commend our partners at the U.S. Department of Labor for their diligent work in investigating this case and ensuring that Clemons be brought to justice.” “Former AFSCME Local 124 President Byron Clemons embezzled more than $200,000 from the dues-paying members he had a duty to serve. This sentencing is an affirmation of our efforts with the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Labor-Management Standards to protect the integrity of labor organizations,” said Irene Lindow, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. Clemons was the president of AFSCME’s Local 124 in Alton from June 2017 through January 2022. According to court documents, Clemons withdrew a total of $202,100 from the Local 124’s U.S. Bank account from February 2021 to January 2022. The defendant used the funds to gamble at casinos and pay personal expenses. Agents with the U.S. Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General and the Office of Labor – Management Standards contributed to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Scott Verseman prosecuted the case.


title: Florida Woman Sentenced to Nine Years in Federal Prison for the Voluntary Manslaughter of Her Girlfriend

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore, Maryland – Chief U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar sentenced Janice Martina Mason, age 30, of Melbourne Florida, today to nine years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for voluntary manslaughter. On May 18, 2023, Mason was convicted after trial for running over her girlfriend on the Baltimore-Washington (“BW”) Parkway and leaving her to die. The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, United States Attorney for the District of Maryland; Acting Special Agent in Charge David Geist of the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division; and Chief Jessica M. E. Taylor of the U.S. Park Police (“USPP”). According to the evidence presented at her eight-day trial, in the early morning hours of November 24, 2021, USPP officers responded to a citizen report for a body on the side of the BW Parkway northbound, north of Route 197, an area within the territorial jurisdiction of the United States. Officers found the victim lying face down on the shoulder of the road. Medics arrived on the scene and pronounced the victim dead. The evidence showed that that there were no skid marks or vehicle parts located at the scene. A cellphone belonging to the victim was found on the grass and another cellphone with a broken screen was found in the roadway and was later determined to belong to Mason. There was testimony that later on November 24, 2021, Mason contacted the USPP Greenbelt Station and advised that she’d lost her phone on the BW Parkway after it had been thrown out of her vehicle, and she tracked the location to USPP Criminal Investigations. Mason then agreed to come to the station for an interview. Witnesses testified that Mason advised the USPP detective that she was visiting from Florida and was staying at her mother’s house in Washington, D.C. Mason falsely told the detective that she was driving the victim and another woman home to Laurel, Maryland, in a black Nissan vehicle when the other woman started hitting Mason. Mason said she pulled over to the side of the highway and ordered them out of the car and they walked away. The detective showed her the phone found in the roadway of the BW Parkway and she identified it as her phone. She also identified a photo of the victim as one of the people she was driving home. Evidence was presented that on November 25, 2021, a USPP detective went to Mason’s mother’s home, spoke with Mason and obtained her written consent to seize and search the contents of her phone, which had been returned to her, and to tow and examine a black Nissan vehicle parked behind the residence, which Mason confirmed was the vehicle she’d used to drive her friend’s home. While at the residence, the USPP detective noticed a black Ford Expedition parked down the street with the tag “JANICE.” Investigators subsequently determined that Mason had been driving the Ford Expedition on November 24, 2021 and not the Nissan vehicle. They went back to Mason’s mother’s residence to tow the Ford Expedition, which was found to have visible damage to the hood, front grille, and the passenger side running board. As detailed in trial testimony, on November 26, 2021, Mason had a second voluntary interview with USPP investigators. She acknowledged that the was driving the black Ford Expedition on the morning of November 24, 2021 and advised investigators that it was just Mason and the victim in the car that day. The Ford Expedition was processed and searched by the FBI’s Evidence Response Team. A swab from the indented hood area was collected and sent to the FBI Laboratory for DNA analysis and concluded that it was DNA from the victim. The FBI Laboratory examined impressions that were collected from the undercarriage of the Ford Expedition and determined that one corresponded in pattern and size with the victim’s shoe. At today’s sentencing, the Court found that in the heat of passion Mason purposefully drove into the victim and then left her on the highway to die. U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the USPP and the FBI for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Kim Y. Oldham and Ari Evans, who prosecuted the case. Mr. Barron also recognized Paralegal Specialist Kristy Penny for her assistance. 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 and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta to Deliver Remarks at Justice Department’s 8th Annual Government-to-Government Violence Against Women Tribal Consultation

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: WASHINGTON – On Tuesday, Aug. 8, Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta will deliver opening remarks at the Justice Department’s 8th Annual Government-to-Government Violence Against Women Tribal Consultation in Tulsa, Oklahoma. The Associate Attorney General’s trip to Tulsa, the second in a series of government-to-government meetings with Tribal leadership, includes a visit with leaders and members of the Muscogee Creek Nation and follows her visit earlier this summer to the Mille Lacs Band of Ojibwe in Minnesota. This trip is part of the Justice Department’s continued efforts to strengthen ties to Indian Country, elevate the voices and concerns of American Indians and Alaska Natives and reinforce the Department’s commitment to bolstering support for Tribal governments by investing additional resources to tackle uniquely Tribal issues. At the consultation, which runs from Aug. 8 – Aug. 10, Tribal government leaders will provide recommendations on administering tribal funds and programs; enhancing the safety of American Indian and Alaska Native women from domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, homicide, stalking and sex trafficking, along with strengthening the federal response to these crimes; and improving access to local, regional, state and federal crime information databases and criminal justice information systems. The consultation is required by law to address the federal administration of Tribal funds and programs established under the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (VAWA) and its subsequent reauthorizations. In addition to the Associate Attorney General, Director Rosie Hidalgo of the Office on Violence Against Women, Director Tracy Toulou of the Office of Tribal Justice and U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Wilson for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, Clinton Johnson for the Northern District of Oklahoma and Bob Troester for the Western District of Oklahoma, among other Justice Department leaders, will attend the consultation and give remarks. WHEN: 8:30 a.m. CT / 9:30 a.m. ET WHERE: River Spirit Resort 8330 Riverside Parkway, Tulsa, OK 74137 OPEN PRESS Reporters with questions for Office of the Associate Attorney General should contact Terrence.Clark@usdoj.gov . Members of the press who wish to attend the consultation must register and will need to check in at the hotel registration desk upon arrival to obtain credentials, which must be worn and displayed at all times throughout the event. For more information and to register as press, visit: www.ovwconsultation.org/Attend/Register . Question regarding the consultation and logistics should be directed to Connie.Palmer-Dodson@usdoj.gov .


title: Justice Department to Host 18th Annual Government-to-Government Tribal Consultation on Violence Against Women

body_text: TULSA – The Justice Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) will host the 18 th Annual Government-to-Government Violence Against Women Tribal Consultation, August 8-10, 2023, in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Tribal government leaders will provide recommendations on administering tribal funds and programs; enhancing the safety of American Indian and Alaska Native women from domestic and dating violence, sexual assault, homicide, stalking and sex trafficking, along with strengthening the federal response to these crimes; and improving access to local, regional, state, and federal crime information databases and criminal justice information systems. The consultation is required by law to address the federal administration of tribal funds and programs established under the Violence Against Women Act of 1994 (VAWA) and its subsequent reauthorizations. Associate Attorney General Vanita Gupta and other Department of Justice officials will be in attendance. WHO: U.S. Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women, Office of Justice Programs, and Office of Tribal Justice U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Administration for Children and Families and the Indian Health Service U.S. Department of Interior’s Bureau of Indian Affairs – Office of Justice Services WHEN: All times provided in local Central time: August 8, 8:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. August 9, 8:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. August 10, 8:30 a.m.- 5:30 p.m. WHERE: River Spirit Resort, 8330 Riverside Parkway, Tulsa, OK 74137 Join virtually: https://www.ovwconsultation.org/Attend/Register CONTACT: Media with any question regarding the consultation should reach out to Connie Palmer-Dodson at Connie.Palmer-Dodson@usdoj.gov . 918-382-2755 Members of the press who wish to attend consultation must register and will need to check in at the hotel registration desk upon arrival to obtain credentials, which must be worn and displayed at all times throughout the event. For more information and to register as press, visit: https://www.ovwconsultation.org/Attend/Register NOTES: OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo; OVW Tribal Affairs Deputy Director Sherriann Moore; and U.S. Attorney Clinton Johnson for the Northern District of Oklahoma are available for interviews . Please contact Connie Palmer-Dodson for more information.


title: Doctor Convicted for COVID-19 Health Care Fraud Scheme

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A federal jury in Baltimore convicted a Maryland doctor today for submitting over $15 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare and a commercial insurer for patients who received COVID-19 tests at his testing sites. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Ron Elfenbein, 49, of Arnold, was an owner and the medical director of Drs ERgent Care LLC, dba First Call Medical Center and Chesapeake ERgent Care. Drs ERgent Care operated multiple drive-through COVID-19 testing sites in Anne Arundel and Prince George’s counties. Elfenbein instructed the employees of Drs ERgent Care that, in addition to billing for COVID-19 tests, the employees were to bill for high-level evaluation and management visits. In reality, these visits were not provided to patients as represented. Rather, Elfenbein instructed his employees that the patients were “there for one reason only – to be tested,” that it was “simple and straightforward,” and that the providers were “not there to solve complex medical issues.” Elfenbein ordered these high-level visits to be billed for all patients, including those who were asymptomatic, who were getting tested for COVID-19 for their employment requirements, and who were being tested for COVID-19 so that they could travel. Elfenbein, through Drs ERgent Care, caused the submission of millions of dollars in claims to Medicare and a commercial insurer for tens of thousands of high-level visits that were not provided as represented and were ineligible for reimbursement. The jury convicted Elfenbein of five counts of health care fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 7 and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison on each count. Elfenbein is the first doctor convicted at trial by the Justice Department for health care fraud in billing for office visits in connection with patients seeking COVID-19 tests. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron for the District of Maryland; Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dillard of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Mid-Atlantic Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Thomas Sobocinski of the FBI Baltimore Field Office; and Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Conrad J. Quarles of the Office of Personnel Management Office of the Inspector General (OPM-OIG) made the announcement. The HHS-OIG, DCIS, FBI, and OPM-OIG investigated the case. Trial Attorney D. Keith Clouser of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew P. Phelps for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case. The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, comprised of 15 strike forces operating in 25 federal districts, has charged more than 5,000 defendants who collectively have billed the Medicare program for more than $24 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit . In the past three years, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force has rooted out health care fraud related to the COVID-19 pandemic. To date, 53 defendants have been charged in nationwide COVID-19 Health Care Fraud Enforcement Actions for causing over $784 million in loss associated with the pandemic, including this case.


title: Sutter County Hunter Sentenced Following Conviction of Violating Migratory Bird Treaty Act

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Carlos T. Ortiz, 27, of Live Oak, pleaded guilty today to transportation and receipt of untagged migratory game birds and was subsequently sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge Jeremy D. Peterson to a three-year hunting ban, three years of probation, and a $1,000 fine, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, Ortiz helped organize and participate in a 10-person goose hunt near the Sutter National Wildlife Refuge in Sutter County. During the hunt, Ortiz and others shot and killed 258 snow geese and white-fronted geese. Snow geese and white-fronted geese are migratory game birds protected by the Migratory Bird Treaty Act. None of the birds were tagged as required by law. This case was the product of an investigation by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Lee prosecuted the case.


title: Maryland Doctor Convicted After Three-Week Trial for COVID-19 Healthcare Fraud Scheme

body_text: Baltimore , Maryland – A federal jury in Maryland convicted Ron Elfenbein, M.D., age 49, of Arnold, Maryland, for five counts of healthcare fraud for submitting over $15 million in false and fraudulent claims to Medicare and other insurers for patients who received COVID-19 tests at sites operated by the defendant. Elfenbein is the first doctor convicted at trial by the Justice Department for health care fraud in billing for office visits in connection with patients seeking COVID-19 tests. The conviction 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 Maureen Dixon for the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG); Special Agent in Charge Christopher Dillard of the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service - Mid-Atlantic Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Thomas Sobocinski for the FBI Baltimore Field Office, and Deputy Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Conrad J. Quarles, Office of the Inspector General (OPM-OIG). According to the evidence presented at his three-week trial, Elfenbein owned and operated Drs ERgent Care, LLC, d/b/a First Call Medical Center and Chesapeake ERgent Care. Drs ERgent care operated drive-through COVID-19 testing sites in Anne Arundel and Prince George’s Counties. Elfenbein instructed the employees of Drs ERgent Care that, in addition to billing for the COVID-19 test, the employees were to bill for high-level evaluation and management visits. In reality, these visits were not provided to patients as represented. Rather, Elfenbein instructed his employees that the patients were “there for one reason only – to be tested,” that it was “simple and straightforward,” and that the providers were “not there to solve complex medical issues.” Many of these patients were asymptomatic, were getting tested for COVID-19 for their employment requirements, or who were getting tested for COVID-19 so that they could travel. Elfenbein, through Drs ERgent Care, submitted or caused the submission of claims totaling more than $15 million to Medicare and other insurers for these high-level office visits. Elfenbein faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison for each of the five counts of healthcare fraud for which he was convicted. Chief U.S. District Judge James K. Bredar has scheduled sentencing for November 7, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. The Department of Justice needs the public’s assistance in remaining vigilant and reporting suspected fraudulent activity. To report suspected fraud, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) at (866) 720-5721 or file an online complaint at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/webform/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . Complaints filed will be reviewed at the NCDF and referred to federal, state, local, or international law enforcement or regulatory agencies for investigation. United States Attorney Erek L. Barron and Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite commended the HHS-OIG, DCIS, the FBI, and OPM-OIG for their work in the Elfenbein investigation. Mr. Barron and Mr. Polite thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew P. Phelps and Trial Attorney D. Keith Clouser of the Justice Department’s Fraud Section, who are prosecuting the 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 . # # #


title: Border Enforcement Security Task Force seizes 30,000+ fentanyl pills from alleged trafficker in Tukwila, Washington

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – A 46-year-old Mexican citizen is in federal custody tonight charged with possession of controlled substances with intent to deliver, for some 30,000 fentanyl pills found in his pick-up truck, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. David Garcia-Garcia made his appearance on the criminal complaint this afternoon. He remains detained pending further hearings. According to records filed in the case, the Border Enforcement Security Task Force became aware that a dealer known as “Daby,” was offering fentanyl for sale. Agents were able to identify Daby as an alias for Garcia-Garcia. A meeting was arranged with Garcia-Garcia near a restaurant in Tukwila to review the goods for a possible drug sale. Following the drug meeting, officers moved in and arrested Garcia-Garcia and impounded his truck. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the truck and found multiple packages of fentanyl pills – the total was more than three kilos – likely more than 30,000 fentanyl pills. Because of the amount of fentanyl involved, Garcia-Garcia faces a mandatory minimum ten years in prison and up to 40 years in prison. The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Garcia-Garcia faces deportation following any prison term. The case was investigated by agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigation (HSI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Seattle Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elyne Vaught.


title: Arkansas Man Pleads Guilty, Sentenced for Illegally Transporting Unlawfully Killed Wildlife

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: DELTA JUNCTION, Alaska – An Arkansas man pleaded guilty and was sentenced on July 18, 2023, for illegally transporting a bull caribou out of Alaska, which he killed in violation of state law. According to court documents, Edward A. Bundy, 54, was charged by the U.S. Attorney’s Office on one count of violating the Lacey Act for illegally killing and transporting a bull caribou in April 2018. Bundy claimed to be an Alaska resident and killed the animal without the proper non-resident Alaska Department of Fish and Game hunting license and locking tag. As part of a plea agreement, Bundy was sentenced to pay a fine of $12,000 to the Lacey Act Reward Fund as restitution for five animals unlawfully killed by the defendant while hunting in Alaska. He will serve a sentence of 18 months’ probation and is prohibited from hunting anywhere in the world throughout the duration of his probation. Bundy must also forfeit two bull caribou and one black bear, all killed illegally. “Let Mr. Bundy’s actions be a reminder that illegal killing and transportation of wildlife will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Our office will continue to be vigilant in working with our partners to identify and prosecute individuals who choose to commit crimes in violation of the Lacey Act.” The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, with assistance from the Alaska Wildlife Troopers and the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steve Skrocki prosecuted the case. ###


title: Two St. Paul Men Plead Guilty to Assaulting a Federal Agent

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – Two St. Paul men have pleaded guilty to assaulting a federal law enforcement officer, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, on March 30, 2023, law enforcement arranged to conduct a controlled narcotics purchase using an undercover officer (UC), a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Task Force Officer. The UC planned to purchase approximately 1,600 M30 fentanyl pills from Dion Darnell Miller, 27, and Aaron Maurice Admir Harris, 29. Instead, Miller and Harris planned to rob the UC. Later that day, Miller and Harris met the UC at a pre-determined location in St. Paul in a silver Volkswagen. They invited the UC to their vehicle. During the transaction, Miller drew a semi‐automatic handgun with an extended magazine and a laser and pointed it at the UC’s face and torso. Miller and Harris repeatedly told the UC to give up the money. The UC threw cash down inside the silver Volkswagen and got out of the vehicle. Miller and Harris fled the scene in the silver Volkswagen. Other law enforcement officers followed Miller and Harris to a St. Paul residence where they both ultimately surrendered. Inside the residence, law enforcement recovered the loaded semi-automatic handgun as well as the $2,400 in cash taken from the UC during the robbery. On August 1, 2023, Miller pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to assault a federal law enforcement officer. On August 2, 2023, Harris pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting assault upon a federal law enforcement officer. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled at a later date. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Ramsey County Violent Crimes Enforcement Team, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and the St. Paul Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen A. Slaughter is prosecuting the case.


title: Minneapolis Man Pleads Guilty to Three Armed Carjackings

body_text: ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Minneapolis man has pleaded guilty to committing three violent carjackings, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, in Minneapolis on March 16, 2023, at approximately 8:00 p.m., Javon Thomas Wilson-Branch, 19, along with another individual approached two people who had just parked and exited a black Mercedes Benz SUV. Wilson-Branch pointed a Springfield Armory rifle at the victims and demanded they hand over everything they had. At gunpoint, the victims provided Wilson-Branch with the keys to the vehicle. Wilson-Branch got into the carjacked SUV and drove away. The next day, at approximately 4:00 a.m., Wilson-Branch and another individual carjacked a blue Toyota Highlander at gunpoint in Minneapolis. Wilson-Branch and others pulled the carjacked SUV up next to the Highlander, and demanded the victim’s car keys at gunpoint. An AirTag inside the carjacked vehicle tracked the vehicle to Saint Paul, where it was left and abandoned at approximately 4:30 a.m., and Saint Paul police later recovered the carjacked vehicle. About thirty-minutes later, at approximately 5:00 a.m., Wilson-Branch and another individual drove the carjacked SUV to Saint Paul and parked behind a black Audi A6. Shortly thereafter, when the owner approached the Audi A6, Wilson-Branch and the other individual exited the carjacked SUV armed with a 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a Springfield Armory rifle. Both men pointed the firearms at the victim and forced him to give up his keys, wallet, and phone. The victim was also forced to unlock his cell phone, which was later used to make unauthorized money transfers from the victim’s bank account to Wilson-Branch and others. Wilson-Branch drove away in the carjacked Audi and the other individual drove away in the carjacked Mercedes Benz SUV. About 30 minutes later, officers with the St. Paul Police Department spotted the two carjacked vehicles in the area of Maryland Avenue and Western Avenue. Officers attempted a traffic stop but both vehicles fled police at a high rate of speed. Officers with the Woodbury Police Department later located the Audi A6 in a mall parking lot and apprehended Wilson-Branch in another building after a short chase. Two of the firearms used in the carjackings were located inside the Audi A6 along with the keys to the Toyota Highlander. Wilson-Branch pleaded guilty yesterday in U.S. District Court before Senior Judge David S. Doty to two counts of aiding and abetting carjacking, and admitted to aiding and abetting a third carjacking. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later time. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Saint Paul Police Department, the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Woodbury Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Bejar is prosecuting the case.


title: California Man Sentenced for Distributing Meth, Heroin through Mail

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: FAIRBANKS, Alaska – A California man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in prison for distributing methamphetamine and heroin to a narcotics dealer through the mail. According to court documents, in May 2019, Charles Trevino, 50, mailed over 1,300 grams of 97% pure methamphetamine and over 220 grams of heroin via the U.S. Postal Service from California to a drug dealer in Fairbanks, Alaska, for distribution. Law enforcement intercepted the package and the dealer said he planned to divide it and sell it to other dealers, who would sell it to users. At the time of the crime, Trevino lived in Arizona. He purchased the packages of drugs from an individual in California, labeled them and shipped them to Fairbanks. He also traveled to Fairbanks multiple times to assist with drug distribution. “Individuals who traffic dangerous drugs into Alaska present a severe risk to our communities and these actions will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska. “Let this sentence be a reminder that getting dangerous substances off the street is a priority for our office, and we will continue to work with our partners and dedicate resources to identifying, investigating and prosecuting individuals who threaten the health and safety of the people of Alaska.” “The Drug Enforcement Administration and our partners are steadfast in our commitment to protect Americans from drug trafficking threats and this case is another example of our cooperative approach making a difference in our community,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Alaska is a little safer today because of our work together in this case.” The DEA, with assistance from the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, U.S. Marshals Service, Alaska State Troopers, North Pole Police Department, Fairbanks Police Department and North Slope Borough Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Tansey and Carly Vosacek prosecuted the case. ###


title: Amphenol Corporation Pays $18 Million To Resolve Allegations That It Submitted False Claims For Electrical Connectors

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Amphenol Corporation (Amphenol) has agreed to pay the United States $18 million dollars to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims for electrical connectors to the United States government when Amphenol sold electrical connectors that failed to fully comply with applicable government regulations and contract specifications, due to Amphenol’s failure to meet required testing standards and other manufacturing and program requirements. The U.S. military and government buys tanks, fighter jets, rockets, missiles, and other equipment and weapon systems containing electrical connectors manufactured by Amphenol, and also purchases electrical connectors from Amphenol to use as replacement parts in weapon systems and equipment. Government contracts and regulations calling for the use of Military Specification (MIL-SPEC or MS) connectors require that both the supplier (Amphenol) and the product supplied (MS electrical connectors) meet all military specifications for the manufacture and testing of those electrical connectors. The Qualified Products List (QPL) program for the six MS connector series covered by the settlement agreement was at all times overseen and managed by Defense Logistics Agency (DLA). As part of the settlement, Amphenol admits that, between 2012 and 2017, it manufactured and sold the following MIL-SPEC electrical connectors directly and indirectly to the U.S. Government that did not fully conform to the applicable MIL-SPECs: Series Nos. 22992, 26482, 26500, 27599, 38999, and 83723 connectors (the “six MS connector series”). Specifically, Amphenol failed to timely complete required retention of qualification testing, [1] failed to timely report required testing results to DLA, and failed to immediately report certain testing failures to DLA, all as required by the applicable MIL-SPECs. Between 2012 and at least March 2016, Amphenol also obtained parts and components from sources that DLA did not authorize. Amphenol used these parts in the assembly and manufacture of the six MS connector series. As a result of all of this conduct, from 2012 through 2017, Amphenol submitted or caused to be submitted to DLA, and other Government agencies, claims for the six MS connector series when those connectors did not fully conform with the requirements of the applicable MIL-SPECs. “Defense contractors agree to follow strict manufacturing and testing protocols so that taxpayers receive the equipment they pay for,” said Carla B. Freedman, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of New York. “These high standards also ensure that our service members have the reliable equipment that they expect and deserve. Today’s $18 million settlement holds Amphenol accountable for its failure to meet those high standards for specific electrical connectors.” The settlement with Amphenol was the result of a coordinated effort by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of New York; the Defense Logistics Agency; the U.S. Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service; the Naval Criminal Investigative Service; the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division; the Air Force Office of Special Investigations; and the Department of Energy Office of Inspector General. This matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carl Eurenius and John Hoggan for the Northern District of New York. [1] “Retention of qualification” testing is periodic testing required by the applicable MIL-SPECs for a manufacturer to maintain status as a QPL manufacturer for a particular QPL-listed product.


title: Hogansburg Man Pleads Guilty to International Money Laundering Conspiracy

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Carey Terrance Sr., age 42, of Hogansburg, New York, pled guilty on July 31 to conspiring to launder money in connection with a scheme to smuggle cut rag tobacco into Canada from the United States. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Matthew Scarpino, Special Agent in Charge of the Buffalo Field Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); and Thomas Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), New York Field Division, made the announcement. In pleading guilty, Terrance Sr. admitted that from approximately 2013 to 2016, he worked with co-conspirators to acquire cut rag tobacco and smuggle it into Canada, where it was made into contraband cigarettes. Members of the conspiracy sold the contraband cigarettes, making substantial profits by avoiding taxes and duties, and used some of their profits to buy more cut rag tobacco that they sent into Canada. Funds to purchase the cut rag tobacco were sent from Canada, often through the Northern District of New York, to North Carolina. Once purchased, the cut rag tobacco was delivered to warehouses and buildings in the Northeastern United States, including on the St. Regis Mohawk Akwesasne Reservation, where it was staged for smuggling into Canada. Terrance admitted that he laundered $221,860.20 as part of the scheme; he agreed to forfeit that amount as part of the guilty plea. Two other co-conspirators, Samuel C. Baker, age 45, of Laurinburg, North Carolina, and Jeffrey Doctor, age 51, of Charlotte, North Carolina, have each also pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering and are awaiting sentencing. Terrance, Doctor and Baker each face a maximum term of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $500,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. A charge remains pending against Edgar M. Baker, Jr. and a trial is currently scheduled for September 27, 2023. The charge in the indictment against Baker is merely an accusation. He is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. HSI and IRS-CI are investigating this case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Allen J. Vickey and Alexander P. Wentworth-Ping are prosecuting this case.


title: Utica Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Conspiracy and Distribution of Fentanyl

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Jose Morales, age 31, of Utica, New York, pled guilty yesterday to conspiring to distribute fentanyl and distribution and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Carla Freedman; Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division and Thomas Fattorusso, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), New York Field Office. In pleading guilty Morales admitted that from May 2020 through October 2021, he acquired quantities of fentanyl from co-conspirators, which he then re-distributed to others in the Utica, New York area. Morales admitted that during his participation in the conspiracy, the drug trafficking organization distributed over 400 grams of fentanyl. Sentencing is scheduled for December 7, 2023, in front of United States District Judge David N. Hurd. Morales faces a minimum of 10 years in prison, a maximum of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. This case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement-Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE-ERO), the New York State Police (NYSP), the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, the Oneida County District Attorney’s Office, the Utica Police Department, the Syracuse Police Department, the Rome Police Department, the Onondaga County Sheriff’s Office, the Onondaga County District Attorney’s Office, the New York Army National Guard Counter Drug Program, the Yorkville Police Department, the Whitesboro Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tamara Thomson.