title: Pigeon Township Trustee and Two Co-Conspirators Charged with Stealing Thousands of Dollars from Local Taxpayers in Kickback Scheme

body_text: EVANSVILLE- A federal grand jury indicted Mariama Wilson, 50, William Payne, 49, and Terrance Hardiman, 32, all of Evansville, on five counts of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Hardiman was also charged with one count of money laundering. The indictment was unsealed on April 26, 2023, following the three defendants’ arrests and initial appearances. As alleged in the indictment, in Indiana, a township is a local governmental entity within a county that uses public funds to provide certain services to residents. A township is administered by an elected official called a Township Trustee. Pigeon Township is one of eight townships in Vanderburgh County. The mission of the Trustee’s Office is to provide emergency financial relief to individuals residing in Pigeon Township who need assistance paying for essentials such as rent, utilities, and prescriptions. Wilson is the elected Pigeon Township Trustee and Payne works in the Trustee’s Office as the Director of Community Relations and Shelter Coordinator. In February 2020, Wilson and Payne agreed to hire Hardiman and his business, Hardiman Construction LLC, to remodel a homeless shelter and develop a food pantry, in exchange for Hardiman agreeing to kick back a portion of the funds that he received from the Trustee’s Office to Wilson and Payne. As alleged in the indictment, Wilson and Payne caused the Trustee’s Office to pay inflated invoices that were submitted by Hardiman for the construction projects, and then pocketed the inflated amounts. Wilson, Payne, and Hardiman visited the homeless shelter and food pantry together, and during those visits, they identified specific projects that needed to be completed. Wilson, Payne, and Hardiman discussed how much the projects should cost and by how much Hardiman should inflate those costs to cover the kickbacks to Wilson and Payne. In general, they agreed to inflate the total amount billed in each invoice by $1,000 to $2,000. Hardiman prepared invoices with fraudulently inflated charges to include the kickbacks, as agreed, and submitted them to Wilson and Payne for payment. Wilson or Payne approved the inflated invoices and caused the Trustee’s Office to issue checks to Hardiman Construction. Hardiman deposited the checks and then withdrew all or nearly all the deposited amount in cash, for the purpose of kicking back a portion of the proceeds to Wilson and Payne. Hardiman placed cash in an envelope and hand-delivered the envelope to Wilson or Payne. Wilson and Payne then divided the kickbacks. In total, between February 11, 2020, and May 16, 2022, the Trustee’s Office paid Hardiman approximately $215,371 for the homeless shelter and food pantry projects. As a result of the kickback scheme, Wilson and Payne received approximately $38,000 in total, or approximately $19,000 each. “Government officials who engage in corruption betray the public’s trust, for their personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Zachary A. Myers. “Inflated invoices and kickbacks rob the taxpayers of their hard-earned money and damage the trust that citizens are entitled to have in their government. The investigation and charges announced today demonstrate our office’s commitment to work with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to root out public corruption at all levels of government.” “There are consequences when public officials illegally use public funds for their own personal benefit. In this case, the defendants prioritized their greed over the interests of the citizens they were supposed to serve,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners will always work together to investigate allegations such as this and ensure perpetrators are held accountable.” “We should all expect our public officials to act with integrity,” said Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Office of Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. “When these officials violate the trust we have placed in them, there should be consequences. IRS-Criminal Investigation will continue to support our law enforcement partners in ensuring that public funds are spent in the taxpayers’ best interests.” “I’m proud that we have honest individuals willing to report corruption when they see it, knowing that silence in the face of misconduct is not an option,” said Vanderburgh County Sheriff Noah Robinson. “The alleged crimes committed by these officials are a slap in the face to the community in which we live. This corrupt behavior runs counter to the oath they took, and certainly not what was promised to this community.” “As Law Enforcement Officers, we have to hold people accountable and keep them honest, regardless of their positions,” said Evansville Police Chief Billy Bolin. “Actions like these defendants cause the community to lose faith in those entrusted with positions of power.” If convicted, Wilson, Payne, and Hardiman face up to 20 years in federal prison and up to 3 years of supervised release each, as well as a fine. A federal district court judge will determine the actual sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Justin Campbell, Special Agent in Charge of IRS-Criminal Investigation’s Chicago Field Office, Chicago Field Office, Herbert J. Stapleton, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Indianapolis Field Office, Paul Joyce, State Examiner for the Indiana State Board of Accounts, Jeffrey R. Adams, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Indianapolis Field Office, Billy Bolin, Chief of Evansville Police Department, and Noah Robinson, Vanderburgh County Sheriff made the announcement. U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who is prosecuting this case. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Jackson Woman Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Bank Fraud

component: USAO - Mississippi, Southern

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson woman pled guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge David Denton of Homeland Security Investigations in New Orleans. According to court documents, Valerie Austin, 37, conspired with two other individuals to obtain bank loans through fraudulent means. Austin used false names and social security numbers that did not belong to her to obtain bank loans. Austin is scheduled to be sentenced on July 25, 2023 and faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Homeland Security Investigations and the Madison Police Department and are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham is prosecuting the case.


title: Wood County Man Pleads Guilty After Unlawfully Obtaining Unemployment and COVID-19 Benefits

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Daniel Satow, 33, of Davisville, pleaded guilty today to mail fraud. Satow admitted he unlawfully obtained unemployment benefits, including supplementary funds provided by the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation Program (FPUC) of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. According to court documents and statements made in court, on December 20, 2020, Satow logged on to the WorkForce West Virginia website and applied for unemployment compensation. Satow admitted he was employed at the time and that he falsely claimed when he applied that he had not been gainfully employed since September 9, 2020, and that the coronavirus pandemic prevented him from working. Satow’s fraudulent application was approved and he received a debit card loaded with unemployment compensation benefits through the mail at his Davisville residence on January 5, 2021. Satow admitted that he used the debit card to make purchases for himself while knowing he had obtained the benefits fraudulently. Satow further admitted that he continued to access the WorkForce West Virginia website for 26 consecutive weeks and each time falsely certified that he remained entitled to unemployment compensation benefits. WorkForce West Virginia relied on Satow’s false answers and loaded additional benefits onto the debit card weekly. These benefits included supplementary funds provided by the FPUC program. Satow admitted that he continued to use the debit card to make personal purchases. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided for a temporary emergency increase in unemployment compensation benefits, referred to as the Federal Pandemic Unemployment Compensation Program (FPUC). Although these benefits are administered by the states, they are funded in part by the federal government. Satow is scheduled to be sentenced on August 10, 2023, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Satow also owes $21,238 in restitution. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the WorkForce West Virginia Integrity Section and the Litigation Financial Analyst with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Ryan Blackwell is prosecuting the case. On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-56. ###


title: Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Being   a Convicted Felon in Possession of a Firearm

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man pleaded guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Darren LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. According to court documents, Nigel Payton, 40, was found in possession of a firearm by a Jackson Police officer on September 28, 2021. Payton has a prior felony conviction for manslaughter in Hinds County and is prohibited from possessing a firearm. On February 23, 2022, a federal grand jury indicted Payton for possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. Payton will be sentenced on August 2, 2023 and faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. This case was investigated by the FBI and the Jackson Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Terrill. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Former Jackson Police Department Officer Indicted  for Selling a Firearm to a Convicted Felon

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A federal grand jury in Jackson returned an indictment charging a former Jackson Police Department officer with selling a firearm to a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. According to court documents, Torrence Donnell Mayfield, 51, of Jackson, is charged with having sold a firearm to a person he knew to be a convicted felon. It is against federal law to sell a firearm to a known convicted felon. Mayfield made his initial court appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge F. Keith Ball who scheduled the case for trial on May 30, 2023 in U.S. District Court in Jackson. If convicted, Mayfield faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. The FBI is investigating the case. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Former Apple Employee Sentenced To Prison For Conspiracy To Defraud Apple And Tax Crimes

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: SAN JOSE – Dhirendra Prasad was sentenced to serve three years in prison and ordered to pay $19,270,683 in restitution for conspiring to defraud Apple, Inc., of millions of dollars and for related tax crimes, announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Special Agent in Charge Darren Lian. The sentence was handed down by the Hon. Beth L. Freeman, United States District Judge. Prasad, 55, from Mountain House in San Joaquin County, was previously charged by Information with one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1349 (Count One); two counts of conspiracy to commit money laundering, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h) (Counts Two and Three); one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371 (Count Four); and one count of tax evasion, in violation of 26 U.S.C. § 7201 (Count Five). Prasad pleaded guilty to the first and fourth count on November 2, 2022. The remaining counts were dismissed at sentencing. The criminal conduct in this case centered around Prasad’s employment at Apple from December 2008 through December 2018. For most of that time, he was a “buyer” in Apple’s Global Service Supply Chain. It was Prasad’s job as an Apple buyer to facilitate the process through which Apple bought parts to perform warranty repairs on older devices. Prasad exploited his position and conspired with two separate Apple vendors to defraud Apple by taking kickbacks, stealing parts, inflating invoices, and causing Apple to pay for items and services it never received – resulting in a loss to Apple of more than $17,000,000. In addition to engaging in two separate criminal conspiracies with Apple vendors, Prasad also acknowledged that he evaded tax on the proceeds of his schemes. According to the government’s sentencing memorandum, by virtue of his position at Apple Prasad was given substantial discretion to make autonomous decisions to benefit his employer. Prasad betrayed this trust, and abused his power to enrich himself at his employer’s expense – all while accepting hundreds-of-thousands of dollars’ worth of compensation from Apple in the form of salary and bonuses. Additionally, Prasad used his insider information regarding the company’s fraud-detection techniques to design his criminal schemes to avoid detection. In addition to the three-year prison sentence, Judge Freeman ordered Prasad to forfeit over $5,491,713 worth of assets—that already have been seized by the government—and to pay an additional forfeiture money judgment in the amount of $8,133,005. Judge Freeman also entered an order of restitution, requiring Prasad to pay $17,398,104 to Apple and $1,872,579 to the IRS, and also ordered Prasad to serve three years of supervised release, to begin after the prison term. Assistant United States Attorneys Michael G. Pitman and Karen Beausey are prosecuting the case. The prosecution was the result of an investigation led by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation.


title: Bank robbers sentenced - trade masks, hoodies and firearms for prison jumpsuits

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: GALVESTON, Texas – Three individuals have been sent to prison for their roles in bank robberies that occurred in Brazoria and Wharton, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Tony Wayne Mitchell, 46, and Kevin McCoy, 33, both of Houston, and Mikell Phillips, 41, Dallas, all pleaded guilty between March 2022 and September 2022. Each admitted to conspiracy to commit bank robbery by force or violence. Mitchell also admitted to brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. Today, U.S. District Jeffery V. Brown handed Mitchell a 60-month term of imprisonment, while McCoy and Phillips received 48 and 54 months, respectively, for the robbery conspiracy. Mitchell also received 84 months for the firearms conviction which must be served consecutively to the other sentence imposed. His total 144-months prison term will be immediately followed by five years of supervised release while the other two will be on supervised release for three years. “While one of them held a gun, four men robbed banks in small, rural towns and terrorized the employees,” said Hamdani. “One of the robbers died while trying to flee, but the other three, with today’s sentence, will face the long arm of justice.” Mitchell, McCoy and Phillips were members of a four-man armed robbery crew who targeted bank branches situated in small rural towns surrounding Houston. Between 2018 and 2019, the crew robbed two banks in Brazoria and Wharton. During each crime, two or three men entered the banks brandishing firearms while wearing masks and hoodies. One man would vault the teller counter while they gathered the cash and put employees in offices, supply closets or the bank vault. They then exited the banks on foot. A Crime Stoppers tip and prescription eyeglasses led authorities to the men. Phillips was involved with only one robbery. He was the only person who did not enter the bank during the heist but did attempt to dispose of monies from the Wharton bank robbery. The fourth member of the crew died in a car crash during his attempt to flee from law enforcement. Mitchell, McCoy and Phillips have been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. FBI Texas City conducted the investigation with the assistance of police departments in Brazoria and Wharton. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Cusick prosecuted the case.


title: Mexican Man Sentenced for Illegal Reentry

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Mexican man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for illegally reentering the United States after deportation. Jesus Ivan Jimenez Joachin, 29, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton to 15 months in prison and one year of supervised release. Jimenez Joachin will be subject to removal proceedings upon completion of his sentence. In January 2023, Jimenez Joachin pleaded guilty to one count of unlawful reentry after deportation. Jimenez Joachin was arrested in Plymouth County in 2016 for charges including larceny of a motor vehicle and assault and battery on a family/household member. While in custody, Jimenez Joachin was determined to be illegally present in the United States and was subsequently deported. At some point after his 2016 removal, Jimenez Joachin illegally reentered the United States. In August 2019, he was arrested in Plymouth County for charges including breaking and entering, domestic abuse and identity fraud as well as earlier charges from 2016. In April 2021, Jimenez Joachin was convicted and sentenced to 30 months in state prison. He was taken into federal custody upon completion of his sentence. United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins and Todd M. Lyons, Field Office Director, Boston, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations made the announcement today. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Nagelberg of Rollins’ Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.


title: Leader of North Shore Chapter of Latin Kings Sentenced for Racketeering Conspiracy

body_text: BOSTON – A former Inca, or first-in-command, of the North Shore Chapter of the Massachusetts Almighty Latin King and Queen Nation (Latin Kings) was sentenced today on racketeering charges. Israel Rodriguez, a/k/a “King Izzy,” a/k/a “King Imperial,” 41, of Lynn, was sentenced by U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel to time served (approximately four months in prison) and two years of supervised release. In February 2021, Rodriguez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy. Rodriguez admitted to his role in an August 2018 conspiracy to “terminate” a leader of the Fitchburg Chapter of the Latin Kings who was suspected of cooperating with law enforcement. On intercepted phone calls, Rodriguez discussed an elaborate ruse to trick this leader into attending a meeting where he would be ambushed and beaten by other Latin Kings members. The Latin Kings are a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Latin Kings adhere to a national manifesto, employ an internal judiciary and use a sophisticated system of communication to maintain the hierarchy of the organization. As alleged in court documents, the gang uses drug distribution to generate revenue, and engages in violence against witnesses and rival gangs to further its influence and to protect its turf. In December 2019, a federal grand jury in Boston returned an indictment alleging racketeering conspiracy, drug conspiracy and firearms charges against 62 leaders, members and associates of the Latin Kings. In total, 60 defendants in the case have pleaded guilty and have been sentenced or are awaiting sentencing, and two remain fugitives. Rodriguez is the 57th defendant to be sentenced. United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Commissioner Carol Mici of the Massachusetts Department of Correction; and New Bedford Police Chief Paul Oliveira made the announcement. Valuable assistance was also provided by the FBI North Shore Gang Task Force and the Bristol County and Suffolk County District Attorney’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of Rollins’ Organized Crime & Gang Unit prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The two remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Las Vegas Man Sentenced To Prison For Conspiracy To Sell Firearms And Fentanyl

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man charged in a conspiracy to sell firearms and machine guns without a Federal Firearms License, and a conspiracy to sell Fentanyl and Xanax was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey to 70 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release. Nicolas Santos (22) pleaded guilty in September 2022 to one count of conspiracy to deal in firearms without a license, one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, and one count of illegal possession of a machine gun. According to court documents, on September 1, 2021, Santos conspired with co-defendants Wilfred Santos and Martin Magallon to sell firearms and machine guns without a Federal Firearms License. He sold multiple firearms including semi-automatic firearms and shotguns; AR-style personally made firearms; a stolen rifle and shotgun; and Glock switches. Additionally, on four different dates between July and August of 2021, Santos conspired to sell Fentanyl and Alprazolam (Xanax). In June 2021, he possessed a Glock switch used to modify a semi-automatic firearm to fire as a machine gun. While detained in the Henderson Detention Center, Santos attempted to obstruct the investigation when he told his girlfriend to delete evidence related to the federal charges in this case. United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement. This case was investigated by the ATF. Assistant United States Attorney Allison Reese is prosecuting the case. If you have information about illegal firearms activity, submit a tip to ATF by calling the hotline at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867) or through the ReportIt mobile app. ###


title: Etowah Pain Clinic Owner Pleads Guilty in Multi-Million-Dollar Kickback and Health Care Fraud Case

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – Another individual has been convicted in the latest in a series of cases involving multi-million-dollar health care fraud and kickback conspiracies, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona, Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples, and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, Special Agent in Charge Tamala E. Miles. David Lyle Shehi , 42, of Rainbow City, pleaded guilty yesterday before Chief U.S. District Judge L. Scott Coogler to conspiracy to pay kickbacks and commit health care fraud. According to the information and plea agreement, Shehi owned a pain management clinic in Rainbow City called Etowah Pain. Between 2016 and 2018, Shehi conspired with others to commit health care fraud, and to receive kickbacks in exchange for his medical practice’s ordering items or services that would be billed to Medicare and other health insurance programs. One of those services was electro-diagnostic testing provided by a Huntsville-based company called QBR, or Diagnostic Referral Community. According to the plea agreement, QBR paid Shehi, through the medical practice, a per-patient fee for tests ordered from QBR and reimbursed by insurance. The payments were disguised as hourly payments for the ordering physician’s time and staff’s time, but in reality, Shehi’s practice was paid on a per-patient basis. Also, this week, a defendant in a related case was sentenced. Today, Judge Coogler sentenced Dr. Eric Beck , 64, of Huntsville, to 15 months in prison. Beck pleaded guilty last year to health care fraud conspiracy for his role in the QBR scheme. In February, John Alan Robson , 40, of Trussville, was indicted in a related case for health care fraud conspiracy, kickback conspiracy, and kickbacks. The cases against Shehi, Beck, and Robson are related to several other cases that have resulted in convictions. John Hornbuckle , 53, of Huntsville, pleaded guilty to health care fraud and kickback conspiracy offenses for his role, as QBR’s CEO, in orchestrating the fraud. James Ewing Ray , 52, of Gadsden, pleaded guilty to health care fraud and kickback conspiracy for his role as a sales rep who marketed QBR’s scheme to Shehi and other medical practices and received kickbacks per test ordered. In March 2022, a jury convicted Dr. Mark Murphy , 66, and his wife Jennifer Murphy , 66, both of Lewisburg, Tennessee, of drug distribution, fraud, and kickback crimes. The Murphys operated North Alabama Pain Services, which closed its Decatur and Madison offices in early 2017. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the Murphys took kickbacks from QBR of more than a million dollars. In return, Dr. Murphy ordered electro-diagnostic tests from QBR for his patients, regardless of whether there was a medical need for those tests. Dr. Murphy also pre-signed prescriptions for expensive specialty topical creams, sprays, and patches, which patients then received whether they wanted the products or not. Before the Murphys went to trial, a co-defendant, Brian Bowman , 42, of Gadsden, pleaded guilty to health care fraud conspiracy. According to Bowman’s plea agreement, Bowman marketed QBR’s electro-diagnostic testing to medical providers, and was paid a fee for each test they ordered. Bowman received nearly a million dollars in fees from QBR. Bowman also marketed high-reimbursing specialty prescription drugs to the Murphys and other providers, and received payments for the prescriptions he generated. Mark Murphy and Jennifer Murphy each were sentenced to twenty years in prison. Hornbuckle was sentenced to eighty months in prison. Ray and Bowman are awaiting sentencing. Other co-conspirators have already been sentenced. The maximum penalty for conspiracy to commit health care fraud and receive kickbacks is five years in prison. The FBI and HHS-OIG investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys J.B. Ward and Don Long are prosecuting the case.


title: Jury Convicts Three Men of Trafficking Kilograms of Cocaine to Schenectady

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – A jury voted today to convict three men of trafficking kilograms of cocaine to Schenectady, New York, in March and April 2021. Jeffrey C. Civitello, Sr., age 51, of Schenectady, his son Jeffrey C. Civitello Jr., age 23, of Schenectady, and Richard D. Sinde, age 58, of Fort Lee, New Jersey, were convicted on all counts following an 8-day trial. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement. The trial evidence demonstrated a conspiracy between five men: the three defendants on trial, as well as Christopher J. Kelly, age 56, of Brooklyn, New York, and Robert J. Ingrao, age 76, of Lodi, New Jersey. As part of the conspiracy, Kelly delivered 3 kilograms of cocaine to Civitello Sr. in Schenectady on March 29, and Kelly and Sinde delivered an additional 3 kilograms of cocaine to Civitello Sr. on March 31. Also on March 31, the Civitellos ordered more cocaine and suggested that Kelly and Sinde use, as a transportation vehicle, a 2018 Jeep Grand Cherokee owned by Civitello Jr., which contained, in its trunk, a sophisticated, hidden compartment, also known as a “trap.” Unbeknownst to the conspirators, the DEA had placed a court-authorized tracker on the Jeep several months prior, as part of an investigation of Civitello Jr. On March 31, Sinde then drove the Jeep from Schenectady to his residence in Fort Lee, and the following evening met Kelly in Breezy Point, New York, on the Rockaway Peninsula, where Kelly and Sinde loaded up the Jeep’s hidden compartment with 9 kilograms of cocaine to be delivered the following day to the Civitellos in Schenectady. Sinde then drove the Jeep home to Fort Lee. The following day, on April 2, 2021, Ingrao went to Sinde’s house and got into the Jeep, and drove it north on Interstate 87 toward Schenectady. A New York State Police Trooper, at the DEA’s request, conducted a stop on Ingrao in Greene County. The Trooper then located 9 kilograms of cocaine in the Jeep’s hidden compartment. The jury voted to convict all defendants of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, as well as possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance for the 3 kilograms of cocaine delivered on March 31. The jury also voted to convict Sinde of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and the Civitellos of attempted possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, for the 9 kilograms of cocaine they tried to transport to Schenectady on April 2. Following the jury’s verdict, Sinde and Civitello Sr. were remanded to custody. Civitello Jr. has been in custody since October 21, 2021, when he was arrested by the DEA in Schenectady on unrelated charges of possessing firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing and intending to distribute marijuana. Those charges are merely accusations, and as to those charges, Civitello Jr. is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. United States District Judge Mae A. D’Agostino will sentence the Civitellos on September 6, and will sentence Sinde on September 8. Each man faces at least 10 years and up to life in prison, as well as at least 5 years of post-imprisonment supervised release. 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. Ingrao’s sentencing and Kelly’s sentencing are also pending. This case was investigated by the DEA’s Capital District Drug Enforcement Task Force, which includes DEA Special Agents and investigators from state and local police agencies, including the Saratoga Springs Police Department, the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and the New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Barnett and Dustin C. Segovia are prosecuting this case.


title: Woodstock Man Sentenced to Prison for Tax Fraud

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MARIUSZ KALINOWSKI, 48, of Woodstock, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to seven months of imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release, for a tax fraud offense. Judge Bryant also ordered Kalinowski to pay a $16,500 fine. According to court documents and statements made in court, Kalinowski owns and operates Kalinowski General Construction, Inc., based in Webster, Massachusetts, which provides residential and commercial construction services in Connecticut and Massachusetts. For the 2010 through 2013 tax years, Kalinowski failed to report on his personal federal tax returns $927,828 in income from his business and, as a result, failed to pay approximately $174,746 in taxes on that income. On November 29, 2022, Kalinowski pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return. Kalinowski has paid the IRS the $174,746 in taxes he owed. Kalinowski, who is released on bond, is required to report to prison on June 20. This investigation was conducted by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jennifer R. Laraia and Peter S. Jongbloed.


title: Missouri Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Raping Runaway Teen

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A man from Mexico, Missouri was sentenced Wednesday to 10 years in federal prison for repeatedly raping a 13-year-old runaway on a trip to Las Vegas. Jacob D. Burney, now 24, became involved in a relationship with the 13-year-old victim in 2021. Sometime before Dec. 8, 2021, the victim ran away from home to be with Burney. The teen was reported missing, and Homeland Security Investigations received a National Hotline Tip on Dec. 14, 2021 about her. Burney switched vehicles and left Missouri to prevent law enforcement officers from finding her. During the trip to Las Vegas, Burney provided drugs and alcohol to the teen and committed the crime of statutory rape repeatedly. Burney pleaded guilty in January in front of U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey to a charge of transportation of a minor to engage in a criminal sex act. “Only by joining together will we successfully eradicate child exploitation from our neighborhoods, therefore HSI is asking the community to pay attention to the signs of these abuses and ultimately report them," said Acting Special Agent in Charge Taekuk Cho for Homeland Security Investigations Kansas City. The Missouri Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force at moicac.org and The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at missingkids.org both have resources on how to protect children. The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Missouri State Technical Assistance Team. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dianna Collins is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and 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: Albany Man Pleads Guilty in Capital Region Cocaine Conspiracy

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Ilvin Figueroa Batista, age 32, of Albany, pled guilty today to conspiring to distribute cocaine in the Capital Region. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the Boston Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), made the announcement. Batista admitted that between June 2021 and December 2021, in Albany and Rensselaer Counties, he conspired with others to receive cocaine shipped from Puerto Rico to distribute in the Capital Region. Batista’s role in the conspiracy was to receive cocaine from Puerto Rico shipped via U.S. mail and turn it over to other members of the conspiracy, who processed the cocaine and sold it. Sentencing is scheduled for August 14, 2023 in front of Senior United States District Judge Gary L. Sharpe. Batista faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 3 years and up to life. Batista also agreed to forfeit $2,300 in cash seized when he was arrested. Three coconspirators previously pled guilty for their roles in the conspiracy, which involved the receipt and distribution of more than 5 kilograms of cocaine in the Capital Region: Jan Lopez-Colon, age 28, of Troy, New York; Jesus Baez, age 32, of Loudonville, New York; and Sam Calderon, age 20, of Troy. USPIS and its Capital Region Task Force, led by the USPIS and including the Albany Police Department, the Albany County Sheriff’s Office, and the Schenectady Police Department, as well as the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin S. Clark is prosecuting the case.


title: U.S. Attorney's Office Hosts Annual Distinguished Victim Services Award Ceremony

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – To commemorate National Crime Victims’ Rights Week (NCVRW), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of North Carolina hosted its annual Distinguished Victim Services Award ceremony, recognizing 11 recipients for their significant support, advocacy, and services to crime victims and their contributions to the cause of justice. National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is April 23-29, 2023. The Justice Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) has selected this year’s NCVRW theme, “Survivor Voices: Elevate. Engage. Effect Change,” to emphasize the importance of engaging with victims of crime; learning from their lived experiences; amplifying their voices; and fostering an environment where they are heard, believed, and supported. “National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is an opportunity to honor and recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their efforts to advocate on behalf of crime victims, and for their exceptional commitment to the pursuit of justice for victims and their families,” said U.S. Attorney Dena J. King. “This year’s recipients were selected for their professionalism, their advocacy, their superior service to crime victims, and their unwavering commitment to making sure that crime victims, crime survivors and their families have equal access to the resources and services they are entitled to on their path to recovery.” The 11 award recipients recognized for their work are: Outstanding Law Enforcement Award Deputy David Coffman – Catawba County Sheriff’s Office Special Agent Timothy Kyle Thiel – Homeland Security Investigations Outstanding Criminal Justice Professional Award Assistant U.S. Attorney William Bozin Assistant U.S. Attorney Lambert Guinn Outstanding Support Staff Award Supervisory Legal Assistant Pamela Burgess Student Intern Marim Habib Outstanding Victim Advocate Award Adelaide Auman – Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department Migdalia Cortes – Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department Present Age Ministries – Concord, North Carolina Outstanding USAO Partner Tracey Bernstein – Holiday Inn City Center Demetria Brittingham - U.S. Marshals Service In presenting the awards today, U.S. Attorney King thanked the recipients for their outstanding dedication and service in working with crime victims and noted the important role each honoree has played in delivering justice and providing victims with the support they need in the aftermath of crime. Throughout the nation and in the Western District of North Carolina, victim advocacy organizations, community groups, and state, local, and Tribal agencies host rallies, candlelight vigils, and other events during NCVRW, to raise awareness of victims’ rights and services. The Office for Victims of Crime leads communities in their annual observances of NCVRW. On Wednesday, April 26, 2023, a candlelight vigil will be held on the National Mall from 7:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. eastern time, to pay tribute to victims of crime and the many dedicated professionals and volunteers who advocate on their behalf. Attendees will also observe a moment of silence to honor all crime victims. Use this link to register for the event. For more information about how to support all victims of crime, visit OVC’s website at ovc.ojp.gov . Additional information about the U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim/Witness Assistance Program can be found here .


title: Man Found Guilty of Assaulting Federal Officer

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Jorge Oliverio Moran-Can, 42, of Guatemala, was found guilty on Monday by a federal jury of one count of Assault on a Federal Officer – Bodily Injury and one count of Assault on a Federal Officer – Physical Contact. Sentencing is scheduled for July 6, 2023, before United States District Judge Scott H. Rash. On July 3, 2022, a United States Border Patrol agent responded to a remote location near New Field, Arizona. The agent was tracking a group of suspected undocumented noncitizens in a remote mountainous area when the agent spotted three people hiding near a ledge. When the agent approached them, two of the suspected undocumented noncitizens fled on foot. Moran-Can stayed and initially remained compliant. However, when the agent reached out to handcuff him, Moran-Can rammed his shoulder into the agent’s torso causing them both to fall and tumble several yards down a rocky slope. Moran-Can continued to struggle, but the agent was able to gain control and handcuff him. The agent sustained abrasions and bruising on his left knee and hip and was treated at a hospital. A conviction for Assault on a Federal Officer – Bodily Injury carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both. A conviction for Assault on a Federal Officer – Physical Contact carries a maximum penalty of 8 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, or both. Customs and Border Protection’s U.S. Border Patrol conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah B. Houston and Frances Kreamer-Hope, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-22-01661-SHR-LCK RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-062_Moran-Can # # # 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 Pediatrician Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Pornography

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A former pediatrician pleaded guilty today to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) on dozens of DVDs and to possessing hundreds of such images on his personal computing devices. Gary David Goulin, 62, of the Beverly Grove neighborhood of Los Angeles, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography. According to his plea agreement, Goulin in November 2021 knowingly possessed four DVDs that contained sexually explicit material involving minors who were under the age of 12 years old. Goulin further admitted in his plea agreement to knowingly possessing an additional 57 DVDs that contained CSAM. The average run time on these DVDs was three hours and 21 minutes. Goulin admitted that in August 2021 he used his cellphone to knowingly receive a video of CSAM. In total, Goulin possessed more than 600 images that he knew constituted child pornography, some of which showed children engaging in sadistic or masochistic conduct. As part of his plea agreement, Goulin has agreed to register as a sex offender. United States District Judge Maame Ewusi-Mensah Frimpong scheduled an October 13 sentencing hearing, at which time Goulin will face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. Goulin was charged in Los Angeles Superior Court with possession of child pornography and sexual exploitation of a child. That case was dismissed considering the federal charges against Goulin, which a grand jury brought via indictment in October 2022. In November 2021, the Medical Board of California prohibited Goulin from practicing medicine. The FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Sarah S. Lee of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.


title: Soap Lake, Washington Physician’s Assistant Pleads Guilty to Lying to the FBI

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Eldon L. Leinweber, age 72 of Waterville, Washington pleaded guilty to making a materially false statement to the FBI. Leinweber faces a maximum sentence of five years imprisonment, a three-year term of court supervision, and a $250,000 fine. Senior Judge William Fremming Nielsen will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Leinweber is scheduled to be sentenced on July 26, 2023, at 9:00 a.m. in Spokane, Washington. According to court documents, Leinweber was a practicing Physician’s Assistant who held a Physician’s Assistant License in the State of Washington and U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration registration number. As such, he was authorized to prescribe controlled substances for legitimate medical purposes and in the usual course of professional practice. He owned and operated Mansfield Family Medicine in Soap Lake, Washington. The FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”), opened an investigation of Leinweber regarding the potential violation of federal criminal law with respect to his prescribing of controlled substances. The FBI and HHS-OIG were investigating, in part, allegations that the Mansfield Family Clinic was overbilling Medicare and Medicaid. In a billing investigation, one of the material questions relates to the amount of time a medical professional, such as Leinweber, spends with a patient and the nature of the examination performed, which directly affect the bill’s amount and whether it is lawfully paid. When the FBI and HHS-OIG interviewed Leinweber during its investigation, he falsely stated that “99.99%” of the time he checked the vital signs of a patient before prescribing an opioid medication. In truth and in fact, as Leinweber well knew, that statement was materially false, when made, because he did not check the vital signs of a patient “99.99%” of the time before prescribing an opioid medication. Indeed, the rate at which the Mansfield Family Clinic performed complete physicals was materially lower. Further, for multiple patients, the Mansfield Family Clinic updated opioid prescriptions with minimal physical examinations. Leinweber’s false statement was made to mislead the FBI in its investigation. Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington said, “Lying to federal agents is a serious offense. Lying about core aspects of patient safety when prescribing opioids impacts the health of our entire community. The integrity of our Nation’s criminal justice system depends on people telling the truth and those who fail to abide by this fundamental principle must face the consequences.” “Integrity is a core value of the FBI and absolutely fundamental in our investigative work. The public expects the same from those given the privilege of providing medical care,” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle Field Office. “This case serves as an example of the importance of honesty and that we will hold those who lie accountable, no matter their profession.” “This provider endangered the safety of his patients by recklessly prescribing opioid medications and lying to federal investigators about doing so,” said Steven J. Ryan, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will not tolerate those who attempt to subvert our investigations, particularly when they concern undermining critical efforts to end the opioid crisis.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. This case is being prosecuted by George J.C. Jacobs, III, Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. 2:19-CR-209-WFN


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Honors Law Enforcement Partners in Fourth Annual “Excellence in the Pursuit of Justice” Awards Ceremony

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – The United States Attorney’s Office recognized members of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies at its fourth annual “Excellence in the Pursuit of Justice” Awards ceremony. The ceremony, held on April 25, 2023, honored law enforcement professionals who have gone above and beyond their duties to safeguard Minnesota’s communities. “It is a great honor to recognize the exceptional work and unwavering dedication put forth by the law enforcement officials and victim advocates with whom we are fortunate to work on a daily basis,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew Luger. “In conjunction with National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, I applaud our law enforcement partners for their outstanding service to our communities and their pursuit of justice for the victims as well as the offenders.” The honorees are members of the following agencies: Bloomington Police Department U.S. Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General Burnsville Police Department U.S. Postal Inspection Service Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of the Inspector General Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Drug Enforcement Administration Federal Bureau of Investigation Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office Brooklyn Park Police Department Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Albert Lea Police Department Minnesota Department of Corrections


title: Maple Grove Felon Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Possession of Firearms

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – A Maple Grove man has been sentenced to 30 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for illegal possession of firearms, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, in January of 2022, the brothers were both charged in Hennepin County District Court for possession of machineguns after they brought to the funeral of a known gang member firearms that had each been modified with auto sears. An auto sear, also known as a switch, is a device used to convert a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm and is considered a machinegun under federal law. In the spring of 2022, both Cortez and Quantez Ward pleaded guilty to their Hennepin County charges and were released on terms of probation. On May 6, 2022, the brothers were pulled over by the Maple Grove police department. During that traffic stop, Cortez Ward was in possession of an unserialized Polymer 80 pistol with a large-capacity magazine loaded with 19 rounds of ammunition on his person. Quantez Ward had an AK-style gun in a backpack in the car. On July 19, 2022, law enforcement executed a federal arrest warrant at the Ward brothers’ residence. Inside, law enforcement found multiple firearms, including a 9mm Ruger rifle, a H&K MP5 rifle and a Polymer 80 pistol with a switch. On November 21, 2022, Quantez Ward pleaded guilty to one count of possession of firearms as a felon related to several of the firearms recovered on July 19, 2022. He was sentenced yesterday before Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz. Cortez Ward will be sentenced at a later date. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Maple Grove Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey E. Middlecamp prosecuted the case.


title: Federal Jury Convicts Former St. Bernard Parish Assistant District Attorney and Two Associates for Defrauding First NBC Bank

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that a federal jury has convicted GLENN E. DIAZ , age 72, of Arabi; PETER J. “PETE” JENEVEIN , age 58, of Panama City, Florida; and MARK S. GRELLE , age 69, of Chalmette, of federal bank fraud and money laundering charges related to defrauding First NBC Bank (“Bank”), the New Orleans-based bank that failed in April 2017. All three defendants are originally from St. Bernard Parish, and DIAZ previously worked as an assistant district attorney for St. Bernard Parish for over thirty years. Between June and December 2016, the defendants defrauded First NBC Bank out of more than $550,000. The jury convicted DIAZ of bank fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy, and eight counts of bank fraud. The jury was hung on 21 counts of bank fraud against DIAZ , for which the court declared a mistrial. JENEVEIN was convicted of bank fraud conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy, and 29 counts of bank fraud. GRELLE was convicted of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and 17 counts of bank fraud. GRELLE was acquitted on one count of bank fraud. U.S. District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo presided over the six-day trial during which the government called twelve witnesses and presented over 450 exhibits. According to the evidence presented from at least April 2016 through December 20, 2016, DIAZ , JENEVEIN , and GRELLE conspired to defraud First NBC Bank through a series of false invoices and other fake documents for work purportedly done at a Florida warehouse owned by DIAZ . DIAZ was a customer of First NBC Bank from 2006 through the bank’s closure in 2017. By late 2015, DIAZ had been overdrawing his checking account for purported business expenses. In reality, DIAZ was depositing these overdrafts into his personal account at another bank. In April 2016, First NBC Bank officers asked DIAZ for additional information about the use of the overdrafts. In June 2016, bank officers required that DIAZ provide invoices as proof that he was spending bank funds to improve the Florida warehouse. DIAZ used this warehouse as collateral for his First NBC Bank loans. Subsequently, bank officers rejected several of DIAZ ’s checks that did not involve warehouse improvements. In response to the Bank’s requirement, DIAZ had JENEVEIN and GRELLE provide fake invoices for warehouse improvements that were purportedly performed by GRELLE ’s company, Grelle Underground Services LLC. Bank officers then approved the overdrafts based on these invoices. However, after DIAZ wrote the check to GRELLE ’s company in payment of the fake invoice, GRELLE would then write a check back to DIAZ . DIAZ would then deposit this check into his personal account at JPMorgan Chase bank, to hide it from First NBC. DIAZ then used the money for personal expenditures unrelated to the warehouse including, vintage automobiles, plastic surgery, precious metals, and online shopping. In total, DIAZ , JENEVEIN , and GRELLE executed 17 round-trip transactions through GRELLE ’s accounts. DIAZ and JENEVEIN also created other fake invoices and credit card itemizations claiming false business expenses as well as fabricating business names to make DIAZ ’s personal expenses appear to be legitimate Florida construction expenses. The fake documents also included invoices from non-existent companies and fake invoices from real companies. As to bank fraud conspiracy and each count of bank fraud, the defendants may face a maximum sentence of up to 30 years in prison, a maximum fine of the greater of $1,000,000 or twice the gross gain to the defendants or twice the gross loss, and up to five years of supervised release. For money laundering conspiracy, the defendants face up to 20 years in prison, a maximum fine of the greater of $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved in the transaction, and up to three years of supervised release. As to each count of conviction, the defendants face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. Judge Milazzo scheduled sentencing in this case for July 26, 2023, at 9:30 a.m. U.S. Attorney Evans said, “This case reaffirms our office’s commitment to prosecuting white collar criminals who act as if their wealth or power puts them above the law. Glenn Diaz’s claims of owning tens of million dollars of assets and property throughout the United States and elsewhere in North America, did not give him the right to lie to a bank. As co-defendants Peter Jenevein and Mark Grelle discovered after today’s jury verdict , our office will hold anyone accountable for defrauding and conspiring to defraud a financial institution and commit money laundering through acts of deceit. I commend the First NBC trial team for its continued work prosecuting the individuals who defrauded First NBC Bank.” “We are pleased to work with our law enforcement partners in bringing to justice those who conspire to defraud financial institutions regulated and supervised by the Federal Reserve Board,” said Stephen Donnelly, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Eastern Region, Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “As a former prosecutor, Mr. Diaz knew his conduct was illegal and egregious,” said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams, Jr. “Diaz and the other defendants in this case engaged in a scheme to enrich themselves. The FBI thanks its partners for their assistance in achieving justice in this case.” This case was investigated by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Orleans Field Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew R. Payne and Nicholas D. Moses of the Financial Crimes Unit, J. Ryan McLaren of the Appellate Unit , and Rachal Cassagne of the Violent Crime Unit are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Corpus Christi resident sentenced for attempting to deliver meth via the mail

body_text: CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 39-year-old local man has been ordered to federal prison for attempting to possess with intent to distribute 6.8 kilograms of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Lawrence Hyde pleaded guilty Jan. 3. Today, U.S. District Judge Drew Tipton ordered Hyde to serve 180 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At sentencing, the court heard that this was not the first time Hyde had received narcotics through the mail. On July 15, 2022, authorities intercepted a package containing 6.8 kilograms of meth addressed to a residence in Corpus Christi. They removed the drugs and subsequently delivered the package. Law enforcement conducted surveillance of the residence and witnessed Hyde take the package and depart the location, at which time they arrested him. Hyde ultimately admitted to knowing there were narcotics in the package and intended to deliver it to another individual. The total weight was approximately 6.8 kilograms of meth with an estimated street value of $200,000 Hyde has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. The Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of the United States Postal Service. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick Overman and John Marck prosecuted the case.


title: Man with homes in California and Arizona indicted for sex trafficking women in Seattle through force, fraud, and coercion

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – A California man was indicted today by a federal grand jury for four federal felonies related to his sex trafficking of adult female victims, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. Winston Cornell Burt aka “Dice Capone,” 31 of Hemet, California, was arrested November 6, 2022, after he allegedly brutally assaulted a 20-year-old woman and engaged in a rolling gun battle as she fled in a van driven by a man who picked her up from the roadway. Burt is charged federally with Sex Trafficking through Force, Fraud, and Coercion; Transportation of an Adult Female for Prostitution through Coercion and Enticement; and two counts of Unlawful Possession of Firearms. Burt will be arraigned on the indictment within the next couple weeks. “The level of violence in this case is stunning – brutal beatings of young women, threats with firearms, emotional and physical control of every aspect of the victims’ lives,” said U.S. Attorney Brown. “I commend the Seattle Police Department and King County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office for working quickly to get Mr. Burt in custody, thus ensuring the immediate safety of the victim and the community.” According to records filed in the case, Burt self-identifies as a “pimp” who led a sex trafficking enterprise through California, Arizona, and Washington. The young women in the case were allegedly required to provide all the money they earned in prostitution to Burt. Three women had his name tattooed on their faces – an apparent sign of “ownership.” On November 2, 2022, Burt assaulted the 20-year-old victim in this case by kicking her, punching her, and pistol whipping her after she indicated she wanted to stop working for Burt. The assault occurred at an Airbnb in south Seattle. Three days later, on November 5, 2022, Burt assaulted the victim again and forced her to strip to her underwear. The victim tried to escape from the rental home by jumping out a third story window. The defendant and two women working for him forced her into a car and drove towards a motel on north Aurora Avenue. Burt was armed with a gun, but the victim was able to get out of the car and ran into traffic on Aurora wearing only her underwear. Burt and his female assistants tried to force the victim back into their car, but the victim stayed in the middle of the roadway until finally picked up by an Uber driver who saw her in distress. Even after the victim was driven away in a van, Burt gave chase on Aurora Avenue and fired shots at the van with the victim inside. The driver was eventually able to evade Burt and called the Washington State Patrol for assistance. Ultimately law enforcement responded to the scene and got the victim to Harborview Medical Center for treatment. Burt was arrested on November 6, 2022, as he was attempting to leave the Airbnb in south Seattle. He has been detained at the King County Jail since his arrest. The indictment calls for the forfeiture of both firearms, more than $24,000 in cash, and jewelry worth in excess of $100,000. The charges contained in the indictment 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. Sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion is punishable by a mandatory minimum 15 years in prison and up to life in prison. Transportation of an adult female for prostitution through coercion and enticement is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and illegal possession of a firearm is punishable by ten years in prison. The case is being investigated by the Seattle Police Department and the FBI with assistance from the Washington State Patrol (WSP). Senior Deputy King County Prosecutor Ben Gauen worked closely with the Seattle Police Department and Assistant United States Attorney Kate Crisham on this case. burt.indictment.filed_.pdf


title: Two New Orleans Men Sentenced to Over 40 Years in Federal Prison for Violent Carjackings

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

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – HAROLD FOSTER , age 31, and MARC DALTON , age 31, of New Orleans, Louisiana were sentenced on April 25, 2023 by United States District Judge Jay C. Zainey, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. After a federal jury trial, the defendants were convicted of two counts of carjacking in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2119(1) and two counts of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(ii). FOSTER was sentenced to a total of 44 years imprisonment and DALTON was sentenced to a total of 41 years and 6 months imprisonment. Testimony at trial established that FOSTER and DALTON carjacked the driver of a white Chevrolet Equinox on April 10, 2020 at the Eastside Cash and Carry convenience store on Chef Menteur Highway in New Orleans. The defendants held the victim at gunpoint with a revolver in furtherance of the offense. After forcing him into his car, the pair briefly kidnapped, then abandoned him on the side of the road. The evidence at trial also showed that on April 12, 2020, FOSTER and DALTON were caught immediately after a second carjacking. In that event, two victims were sitting in a Mercedes C300 vehicle on St. Peter Street in New Orleans when the defendants held them at gunpoint with a semi-automatic Taurus handgun. Like the previous offense, the defendants kidnapped then abandoned the victims on the side of the road. The New Orleans Police Department located the defendants in the stolen Mercedes immediately after the carjacking and arrested them following a high-speed pursuit on Downman Road. FOSTER ’s 44-year sentence consists of 180 months for each count of carjacking and 84 months for each count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, all to run consecutively. He was further ordered to pay $400.00 in mandatory special assessment fees and serve a term five years on supervised release. DALTON ’s 41 year and 6-month sentence consists of 165 months for each count of carjacking and 84 months for each count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, all to run consecutively. He was further ordered to pay $400.00 in mandatory special assessment fees and serve a term five years on supervised release. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, New Orleans Police Department, and Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Charles D. Strauss, David E. Haller of the Violent Crime Unit, and J. Benjamin Myers of the Narcotics Unit are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Former Arkansas State Senator Sentenced for Role in Bribery Scheme

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A former Arkansas state senator was sentenced yesterday to four years and two months in prison in the Western District of Missouri for accepting multiple bribes in connection with a multi-district investigation spanning the Eastern and Western Districts of Arkansas and the Western District of Missouri. Pursuant to his global plea agreement, Jeremy Hutchinson, 48, of Little Rock, pleaded guilty on June 25, 2019, in the Eastern District of Arkansas to filing a false tax return; pleaded guilty on June 25, 2019, to an information filed in the Western District of Arkansas to conspiracy to commit federal program bribery; and pleaded guilty in the Western District of Missouri on July 8, 2019, to conspiracy to commit federal program bribery. On Feb. 3, Hutchison was sentenced to three years and 10 months in prison for his convictions in the Eastern District of Arkansas and Western District of Arkansas. His sentence in the Western District of Missouri will run consecutive to the previous sentence for a total of eight years in prison. According to court documents in connection with his plea in the Western District of Missouri, Hutchinson was hired by then-chief operating officer Bontiea Goss as outside counsel for Preferred Family Healthcare Inc. (formerly known as Alternative Opportunities Inc.), a Springfield, Missouri-based healthcare charity. In exchange for payments and legal work, Hutchinson performed official acts on behalf of Preferred Family Healthcare, including holding up agency budgets and drafting and voting on legislation. Preferred Family Healthcare paid Hutchinson more than $350,000 in monthly retainer payments from May 2014 until 2017. In 2022, Preferred Family Healthcare agreed to pay more than $8 million in forfeiture and restitution to the federal government and the state of Arkansas under the terms of a non-prosecution agreement, in which the company admitted to the criminal conduct of its former officers and employees. Several former executives from the charity, former members of the Arkansas state legislature, and others have pleaded guilty in federal court as part of the long-running, multi-jurisdiction investigation, including the following: Former Chief Operating Officer Bontiea Goss, previously of Springfield, Missouri, pleaded guilty in September 2022 to her role in a conspiracy to commit bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. Former Chief Financial Officer Tommy “Tom” Ray Goss, husband of Bontiea Goss, and also previously of Springfield, Missouri, pleaded guilty in September 2022 to participating in the conspiracy by embezzling funds from the charity, as well as by paying bribes and kickbacks to elected public officials in Arkansas. Tom Goss also pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of a false tax return. Former Chief Executive Officer Marilyn Luann Nolan of Springfield, Missouri, pleaded guilty in November 2018 to her role in a conspiracy to embezzle and misapply the funds of a charitable organization that received federal funds. Former Director of Operations and Executive Vice President Robin Raveendran of Little Rock, Arkansas, pleaded guilty in June 2019 to conspiracy to commit bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds. Former executive and head of clinical operations Keith Fraser Noble of Rogersville, Missouri, pleaded guilty in September 2019 to concealment of a known felony. Former employee and head of operations and lobbying in Arkansas Milton Russell Cranford, aka Rusty, of Rogers, Arkansas, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of federal program bribery. Political consultant Donald Andrew Jones, aka D.A. Jones, of Willingboro, New Jersey, pleaded guilty in December 2017 to his role in a conspiracy to steal from an organization that receives federal funds. Former Arkansas State Representative Eddie Wayne Cooper of Melbourne, Arkansas, pleaded guilty in February 2018 to conspiracy to embezzle more than $4 million from Preferred Family Healthcare. Former Arkansas State Senator and State Representative Henry “Hank” Wilkins IV was sentenced in January 2023 for his role in a conspiracy to commit federal program bribery and devising a scheme and artifice to defraud and deprive the citizens of the state of Arkansas of their right to honest services. Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jonathan D. Ross for the Eastern District of Arkansas, U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes for the Western District of Arkansas, U.S. Attorney Teresa A. Moore for the Western District of Missouri, Assistant Director Luis Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, Special Agent in Charge Charles Dayoub of the FBI Kansas City Field Office, Special Agent in Charge James A. Dawson of the FBI Little Rock Field Office, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Murdock of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) St. Louis Field Office made the announcement. The FBI, IRS-CI, the Offices of the Inspectors General from the Departments of Justice, Labor, and the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation investigated the cases. Senior Litigation Counsel Marco A. Palmieri, Director of Enforcement & Litigation for the Election Crimes Branch Sean F. Mulryne, and Trial Attorney Jacob Steiner of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section; Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Mazzanti for the Eastern District of Arkansas; Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Randall Eggert and Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon T. Kempf for the Western District of Missouri; and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron L. Jennen and Steven M. Mohlhenrich for the Western District of Arkansas are prosecuting the separate criminal cases. Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Harris for the Eastern District of Arkansas and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Wulff for the Western District of Arkansas provided significant assistance.


title: Three Nevada Men Convicted in Multimillion Dollar Prize Notice Scheme

component: Civil Division

body_text: A federal jury convicted three Nevada men yesterday for perpetrating a prize-notification scheme that stole more than $6 million from victims. The notices led victims to believe that they could claim a large cash prize if they paid a fee of $20 to $30. This was false; victims who paid the fees did not receive anything of value. Many of the schemes’ victims were retirees or other older adults. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Mario Castro, 55, and Miguel Castro, 58, of Las Vegas, and Jose Luis Mendez, 49, of Henderson, Nevada, produced the fraudulent prize notices at their business in Las Vegas. The three defendants also were partners in companies that sent the fraudulent prize notices. The defendants used money from victims to print and mail prize notices and also received a share of the profits. “This verdict demonstrates the Department of Justice’s commitment to pursuing and holding accountable those who participate in scams that defraud consumers,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The department is committed to protecting consumers from deceptive mass-mailing schemes.” “The defendants mailed fraudulent prize notices to prey upon and trick victims, many of them elderly, out of millions of dollars,” said U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada. “This guilty verdict should be a warning to individuals who commit fraudulent acts. We are committed to working together with the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service to identify and hold fraudsters accountable. We will continue to protect older Americans and prosecute individuals who seek to carry out fraudulent schemes targeting seniors.” “Vulnerable and older Americans have been victimized for far too long by individuals who hide in the shadows to commit their crimes,” said Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s (USPIS) Criminal Investigations Group. “This verdict unmasks these criminals and holds them to account for their conduct. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is proud to have contributed to this result and will be relentless in protecting American consumers from fraud through the U.S. Mail.” The defendants operated the scheme from 2010 to February 2018, when postal inspectors executed multiple search warrants and the Department of Justice obtained a court order shutting down the fraudulent mail operation. Mario Castro, Miguel Castro, and Jose Luis Mendez worked at the printing and mailing businesses that sent the fraudulent mail and shared the profits from the fraudulent prize notices. The defendants and their co-conspirators ignored multiple cease and desist orders from the U.S. Postal Service that prohibited their companies from sending fraudulent mail. The defendants responded by changing the names of their companies and using straw owners to hide their continuing fraud. Mario Castro was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and seven counts of mail fraud. He was found not guilty of five counts of mail fraud. Miguel Castro was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and five counts of mail fraud. He was found not guilty of seven counts of mail fraud. Jose Luis Mendez was convicted of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and eleven counts of mail fraud. He was found not guilty of one count of mail fraud. A fourth defendant, Salvador Castro, was acquitted by the jury on all charges. The convicted defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on Aug. 23 and face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each count of mail fraud and conspiracy to commit mail fraud. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Four other people previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail fraud in connection with this prize notice scheme: Patti Kern, 65, of Henderson, Nevada; Andrea Burrow, 43, of Las Vegas; Edgar Del Rio, 45, of Las Vegas; and Sean O’Connor, 54, of Las Vegas. The USPIS investigated the case. Trial Attorneys Timothy Finley and Daniel Zytnick of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mina Chang for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case. The Department urges individuals to be on the lookout for lottery, prize notification, and sweepstakes scams. If you receive a phone call, letter, or email promising a large prize in exchange for a fee, do not respond. Fraudsters often will use official-sounding names or the names of real lotteries or sweepstakes, or pretend to be a government agent purportedly helping to secure a prize. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available. The Federal Trade Commission also provides a hotline at 877-FTC-HELP_and a website at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov_to receive consumer complaints. More information about the Department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative webpage. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit its website at https://www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. The Department of Justice provides information about a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which are available at https://www.ovc.gov .


title: Felon Sentenced for Possession of Firearm at East St. Louis Motel

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: BENTON, Ill. – A U.S. District Court judge sentenced a Cahokia man to 33 months in federal prison after he was caught with a firearm as a convicted felon. Tyrone James, 47, pled guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. In addition to imprisonment, he will serve three years of supervised release. “The East St. Louis community has suffered from years of heartache and devastation due to gun violence, and one less felon in possession of a firearm is a positive step for the city’s revival,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “Illinois State Police officers in the PSEG unit have made significant progress to improve public safety in East St. Louis, and I look forward to continuing our partnership to apprehend criminals.” “The Public Safety Enforcement Group continues to get illegal guns off the streets and out of the hands of criminals who repeatedly break the law,” said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “The collaborative effort between ISP, local and federal law enforcement agencies, the public, and the justice system is helping create safer communities.” According to court documents, law enforcement officers were investigating a shooting in East St. Louis in July 2021 and while reviewing surveillance video at a motel, James was observed exiting and returning to a room holding a handgun. PSEG investigators determined that James was not involved in the shooting, however, officers were given consent to search the motel room and recovered a .22 caliber pistol. In an interview with police, James admitted he had a prior felony possession and was therefore not able to legally possess a firearm. The Illinois State Police Public Safety Enforcement Group unit conducted the investigation, and Assistant U.S. Attorney John Trippi prosecuted the case.


title: Providence Man Sentenced for Bank Fraud

body_text: PROVIDENCE – A citizen of Liberia residing in Providence who participated in a fraud scheme to create and deposit fraudulent checks and then quickly withdraw the funds from banks before the fraud was discovered was sentenced today to forty-one months in federal prison, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. Maximillian Mwah, 39, previously admitted to a federal judge that he conspired with others to create and deposit numerous counterfeit checks drawn on the accounts of individuals and businesses, including local law firms. As part of the scheme, conspirators recruited individuals with bank accounts who were willing to deposit the counterfeit checks and then quickly withdraw the resulting funds. Court records show that Mwah often communicated via Facebook messenger with a leader of the fraud scheme, and with others, about effectuating the fraud. Mwah pleaded guilty on December 20, 2022, to a charge of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and a charge of bank fraud. He was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Chief judge John J. McConnell, Jr., to forty-one months in federal prison to be followed by three years of federal supervised release. Mwah was ordered to pay restitutions to banks defrauded totaling $8,404.24. An immigration detainer has been lodged against Mwah by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; he faces removal from the United States. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ly T. Chin. The matter was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, with the assistance of the FBI, United States Secret Service, ATF, Rhode Island State Police, Providence Police Department, and Delaware State Police. ###


title: Lake County Man Sentenced for Gun Crime and Unlawful Taking of a Bald Eagle Without a Permit

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Jackson, TN – Jason Perkins, 44, of Tiptonville, has been sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and the unlawful taking of a bald eagle. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz announced the sentence today. According to United States Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, on March 21, 2021, United States Fish and Wildlife Service Agents and Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency Officers received a report of a bald eagle carcass in Tiptonville, Tennessee. Through witness interviews and the execution of search warrants on Perkins’s home and his father’s home, officers determined that Perkins shot the bald eagle and that he was previously convicted of felony offenses. A 12-gauge shotgun and .357 handgun possessed by Perkins were recovered. United States Attorney Ritz stated, “The bald eagle has been a symbol of our country since 1782. This defendant, a felon, shot and killed one of these great birds—violating federal law in the process. I appreciate the federal, state, and local partners who worked to bring him to justice.” The United States Fish and Wildlife Service Office of Law Enforcement, Atlanta, GA Special Agent in Charge, Stephen Clark stated, “United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, is committed to working collaboratively with the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency, to conserve, protect, and enhance fish, wildlife, plants, and their habitats. The illegal taking of a bald eagle is a violation of numerous federal statutes and will be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. We will continue to work closely with our state partners to conduct these criminal investigations.” United States District Judge J. Daniel Breen sentenced Perkins to 24 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Tennessee Wildlife Resource Agency, and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked former Assistant United States Attorney Matt Wilson and Assistant United States Attorney Christie Hopper who prosecuted this case, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case. ### For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or cherri.green@usoj.gov. Follow @ WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates.


title: EOIR Announces Appointment of Sheila McNulty as Chief Immigration Judge

component: Executive Office for Immigration Review

body_text: FALLS CHURCH, VA – The Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR) today announced the appointment of Sheila McNulty as the Chief Immigration Judge. Judge McNulty has served EOIR since 2010, including as a part of Office of the Chief Immigration Judge leadership for the past 6.5 years. “Judge McNulty brings to this critical leadership position an incredible depth of experience and both the skills and desire to improve our immigration court system,” said EOIR Director David L. Neal. “Her understanding of what justice means to judges and to those before them provides a perfect foundation for the critical evaluation of our processes and procedures.” As Chief Immigration Judge, Judge McNulty will be responsible for applying her knowledge of, and experience in, immigration law and procedures to manage the immigration court system. She will make management decisions regarding staffing and budget and be the lead official overseeing the corps of immigration judges nationwide. Since March 2021, Judge McNulty has served as a Regional Deputy Chief Immigration Judge. McNulty received a Bachelor of Arts in 1984 from Miami University of Ohio and a Juris Doctor in 1991 from New England School of Law. From November 2015 to March 2021, she served as an Assistant Chief Immigration Judge, and during this time, from February 2020 to March 2021, she also served as Acting Deputy Chief Immigration Judge for the West. From October 2010 to November of 2015, she served as an Immigration Judge at the Chicago Immigration Court. From 2000 to 2010, Judge McNulty served as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney with the former Immigration and Naturalization Service (INS) and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, in the Chicago Office of the U.S Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Illinois. From 1991 to 2000, she served as a trial attorney for the former INS, entering on duty through the Attorney General’s Honors Program. From 1985 until 1988, Judge McNulty worked as a community activist and organizer in Cambridge, Massachusetts. Judge McNulty is a member of the Illinois Bar.


title: Leader Of Miami Crew Pleads Guilty To Defrauding Banks And Cryptocurrency Exchange Of More Than $4 Million

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that ESTEBAN CABRERA DA CORTE, a/k/a “Esteban Cabrera,” a/k/a “Esteban Da Corte,” a/k/a “Steban,” pled guilty today to participating in a scheme to steal millions of dollars’ worth of cryptocurrency and trick U.S. banks into refunding the millions used to purchase that cryptocurrency, in part by using personal identifying information stolen from other people. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Esteban Cabrera Da Corte orchestrated a scheme to steal millions of dollars by buying cryptocurrency using false and stolen identities and then deceiving U.S. banks regarding those transactions. As a result of his guilty plea, Cabrera Da Corte is now being held to account. Our Office will continue to work vigorously with our law enforcement partners to protect the integrity of U.S. banks and financial markets to the full extent of the law from those who seek to enrich themselves through fraud and deceit, including those who attempt to shroud themselves in the anonymity of digital transactions.” According to the Indictment and statements made in court: From at least in or about 2020 through at least in or about March 2020, CABRERA DA CORTE and his co-conspirators engaged in a scheme to deceive U.S. banks and a leading cryptocurrency exchange platform (the “Cryptocurrency Exchange”) by purchasing more than $4 million in cryptocurrency and then falsely claiming that the cryptocurrency purchase transactions were unauthorized, deceiving the U.S. banks and the Cryptocurrency Exchange into reversing those transactions and redepositing the money into the bank accounts that the Defendants controlled. The Defendants then withdrew the money from the bank accounts. To carry out this scheme, the Defendants opened accounts with the Cryptocurrency Exchange, frequently using photos of fake U.S. passports, fake drivers’ licenses, and stolen personal identifying information. The Cryptocurrency Exchange accounts were linked to bank accounts that the Defendants controlled. The Defendants used money that had been deposited into the linked bank accounts, frequently through a series of cash deposits made using ATMs, to purchase cryptocurrency. That cryptocurrency was then quickly transferred to other cryptocurrency wallets outside of the Cryptocurrency Exchange that were controlled by the Defendants and their co-conspirators. After the cryptocurrency was transferred, the Defendants made telephone calls to the U.S. banks during which they falsely represented that the cryptocurrency purchases were unauthorized, leading the banks to reverse the transactions. The operation of this scheme by the Defendants resulted in U.S. banks processing more than $4 million in fraudulent reversals and the Cryptocurrency Exchange losing more than $3.5 million worth of cryptocurrency. * * * ESTEBAN CABRERA DA CORTE, 26, of Miami, Florida, pled guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which carries a maximum term of 20 years in prison, and agreed to pay restitution of $3,578,786.69 and forfeiture of $1,200,000. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of Homeland Security Investigations’ El Dorado Task Force. The matter is being handled by the Money Laundering and Transnational Criminal Enterprises Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily Deininger and Josiah Pertz are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Grand Jury Returns Indictments

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Western

body_text: MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. Rockford Man Charged with Drug Crimes Vincent Phillips, 41, Rockford, Illinois, is charged in an eight-count indictment with drug crimes involving methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine. The indictment alleges that on February 18, 2023, he possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine with intent to distribute. The indictment alleges that on three occasions between April 4 and April 20, 2023, he distributed methamphetamine. The indictment further alleges that two of the distributions involved 50 grams or more of the drug. The indictment also alleges that on April 20, 2023, Phillips possessed cocaine with intent to distribute, and that he possessed 50 grams or more of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. If convicted, Phillips faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years and a maximum of 40 years in prison on the four charges that allege the distribution or possession for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. The other four charges each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Phillips was arrested on April 20 and is being held at the Sauk County Jail. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office and the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Ginsberg is handling the prosecution. Two Mexican Nationals Charged with Illegally Reentering U.S. In unrelated cases, two citizens of Mexico are charged with illegally reentering the United States. Marcos Xelhua-Ponce, 30, is charged with illegally reentering the United States after having been deported. The indictment alleges that he was found in the Western District of Wisconsin on February 15, 2023. He was found in Dane County. The second indictment charges Noe Mendoza-Caballero, 39, with reentering the United States after being removed. The indictment alleges that Mendoza-Caballero was found in the Western District of Wisconsin on March 27, 2023. He was found in Monroe County. If convicted, Xelhua-Ponce faces a maximum penalty of two years in prison, and Mendoza-Caballero faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Immigration offenses may carry different maximum penalties based on the totality of circumstances in each case. The charges against them are the result of investigations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, with the participation of the U.S. Marshals Service in the investigation of Xelhua-Ponce. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Ginsberg is handling the prosecution of Xelhua-Ponce and Assistant. U.S. Attorney Steven Anderson is handling the prosecution of Mendoza-Caballero.