title: Folsom Man Sentenced to 40 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Matthew Goyder, 41, of Folsom, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Daniel J. Calabretta to 40 years in prison and a life term of supervised release for sexual exploitation of a minor, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, Goyder used Snapchat to contact and sextort minor victims for sexually explicit images and videos. Goyder claimed to be a teenage boy when first contacting the victims. When agents searched Goyder’s iPhone, they found approximately 120 albums, with many albums labeled with a name and the victims’ age. This case was the product of an investigation by the Folsom Police Department and the Sacramento Valley Hi-tech Crimes Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Roger Yang prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. Click on the “resources” tab for information about internet-safety education.


title: Greenbrier County Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug Crime

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: BECKLEY, W.Va. – Rance Allen Mitchem, 42, of Lewisburg, was sentenced today to nine years and two months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 27, 2022, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a Lewisburg apartment where Mitchem was staying. Officers seized approximately 38 grams of methamphetamine, scales, packaging materials, and a Taurus model G2S .40-caliber handgun. Mitchem admitted to possessing the seized methamphetamine and an additional 93.1 grams of methamphetamine that officers found when Mitchem told them it was in his parked vehicle. Mitchem further admitted that he intended to distribute the methamphetamine and use some of it himself. Mitchem also told officers that he had distributed quantities of methamphetamine at least once a week for approximately five months. At the time of his offense, Mitchem was on parole for first-degree robbery following his 2003 conviction in Greenbrier County Circuit Court. Mitchem robbed a Greenbrier County pharmacy of oxycodone and hydrocodone pills while armed with a sawed-off shotgun. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Greenbrier Valley Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Isabell prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-cr-161. ###


title: Former West Shore Bank Trust Officer Sentenced In Embezzlement Scam

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Kathleen Ann Matteson, 71, of Muskegon was sentenced to 61 months in prison and 2 years of supervised release following her conviction on bank fraud, embezzlement, and identity theft charges. During sentencing, U.S. District Judge Jane Beckering stated that Matteson’s “conduct is a betrayal of the trust of the individuals who put their money in her hands.” “Through her brazen scheme, Ms. Matteson stole over $780,000 from customer accounts,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “My office is committed to protecting businesses and holding accountable those who abuse positions of trust and profit at the expense of unsuspecting victims.” On August 30, 2023, Matteson was indicted for bank fraud, embezzlement, and aggravated identity theft. The charges specified that Matteson, a trust officer, had engaged in a fraudulent scheme beginning in 2006. She would take funds by submitting bills to her employer from a shell company she owned that did nothing, write duplicate payroll checks to herself, and take funds out of customer trust accounts for her own use. The scheme continued after West Shore Bank acquired her trust company in 2017 and did not end until she retired at the end of 2019. Total losses exceeded $780,000. Matteson pleaded not guilty and proceeded to trial in April 2024. The evidence at trial showed that Matteson embezzled funds and concealed her actions by falsifying records. According to court records, Matteson spent most of the embezzled money on casino gambling activities. The jury convicted Matteson on all charges. “Ms. Matteson's deceitful actions, spanning over a decade and involving multiple fraudulent schemes, continued until her retirement, at which point she believed she had succeeded,” stated Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “She deliberately profited from these frauds at the expense of clients and her employer. The FBI remains committed to working with our partners from the U.S. Attorney's Office to combat these serious white-collar crimes.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case, and Assistant United States Attorneys Timothy VerHey and Doaa Al-Howaishy prosecuted it. # # #


title: El Paso Man Sentenced to 24 Years in Federal Prison for Holding Migrants Hostage, Dealing Fentanyl

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: EL PASO, Texas – An El Paso man was sentenced in federal court to 292 months in prison for harboring migrants and taking them hostage, as well as conspiracy with intent to distribute fentanyl after a prior felony drug conviction. According to court documents, Simon Roberto Alvarado, 39, conspired with Juan Carlos Calzada, 30, and Mexican national Janeth Nicole Magallanes, 26, to detain six citizens of Guatemala and Honduras. The co-conspirators held the migrants hostage in an apartment and threatened them with injury or death if their families did not pay ransoms. FBI agents detained Magallanes while conducting surveillance at the residence Jan. 5, 2021, and further discovered the six hostages along with several weapons. The investigation revealed Alvarado was the owner of the residence, and a search of Alvarado’s phone indicated he and others had also trafficked more than 400 grams of fentanyl through the Western District of Texas. The Court sentenced Calzada on Feb. 14 to 78 months in federal prison for one count of conspiracy to commit hostage taking. Magallanes was sentenced on Feb. 20 to 120 months for one count of hostage taking. U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas and Special Agent in Charge John S. Morales for FBI El Paso made the announcement. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Valenzuela, Kyle Myers, and Adam Hines prosecuted the case. ###


title: Maryland Man Sentenced For Role In Scheme To Steal More Than $1.5 Million From Victims Throughout The United States

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore , Maryland – A Maryland man was sentenced today to thirty months in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release in Baltimore federal court for conspiracy to commit bank fraud. The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, and Postal Inspector in Charge Damon E. Wood of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (“USPIS”) Washington Division. According to court documents, Theodore Sapperstein, age 67, formerly of Pikesville, and his coconspirators unlawfully debited money from the bank accounts of unsuspecting victims throughout the United States by creating shell companies and falsely representing to banks that debits against the consumer-victims’ bank accounts were authorized as payment for services allegedly provided by those shell companies. To both conceal and continue conducting unauthorized debits, the scheme’s shell companies also generated “micro debits” against other bank accounts controlled and funded by or for the scheme. The micro debits artificially lowered shell companies’ return rates to levels that conspirators believed would reduce bank scrutiny and lessen potential negative impact on the scheme’s banking relations. Sapperstein facilitated the scheme’s use of fraudulent micro debits, and helped broker payment processing for the scheme, securing a payment processor whose company processed the unauthorized debits. “ My Office is committed to ferreting out and punishing the predatory conduct of white-collar fraudsters who utilize, and often hide behind, shell companies and phony accounting and bookkeeping practices to steal money from unsuspecting victims,“ said U.S. Attorney Barron. “Those who knowingly participate in schemes to use personal and financial information about American consumers to steal money from their accounts will be held accountable,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We are committed to investigating and prosecuting individuals who facilitate such schemes.” In July 2024, Shoaib Ahmad of Canada, was charged in the Central District of California with conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud for his role in the scheme. U.S. Attorney Barron and Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton commended the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for its work in the investigation and thanked the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California for its assistance in the prosecution of the case. Mr. Barron also thanked Assistant United States Attorney Darryl Tarver and Trial Attorneys Wei Xiang, Meredith Healy, and Amy Kaplan of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch, who are prosecuting the case. For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Conspiracy and Fraud Charges Added Against Operator of Central California Bio-Lab and His Partner in Connection with Sale of Millions of Dollars in COVID-19 Test Kits

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — The operator of a Reedley lab, who was indicted in November 2023, faces additional charges of conspiracy and wire fraud after a federal grand jury returned a 12-count superseding indictment today, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. Jia Bei Zhu, 62, a citizen of China, was previously indicted for distributing adulterated and misbranded COVID-19 test kits in violation of the federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act and making false statements to authorities about his identity and involvement with the biolabs. The superseding indictment also charges Zhu’s romantic and business partner, Zhaoyan Wang, 38, a citizen of China, who operated the biolabs Universal Meditech Inc. (UMI) and Prestige Biotech Inc. (PBI) in Fresno and Reedley along with Zhu. UMI and PBI distributed COVID-19, pregnancy, and other types of test kits. According to court documents, from August 2020 through March 2023, Zhu and Wang conspired to defraud buyers of UMI and PBI’s COVID-19 test kits. They imported hundreds of thousands of COVID-19 test kits from Ai De Ltd., which was a company in China that they controlled, and falsely represented to the buyers that the test kits were made in the United States. They illegally imported the COVID-19 test kits, which they were not approved to import, by falsely declaring them as pregnancy test kits, which they were approved to import. Zhu and Wang also falsely represented to the buyers that UMI and PBI could make up to 100,000 COVID-19 test kits per week in the United States and that the test kits were made in connection with other labs that were certified by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Finally, they falsely represented to the buyers that the test kits were approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). Zhu and Wang made over $1.7 million through their fraud. When buyers requested to inspect UMI and PBI’s facilities in Fresno and Reedley, Zhu and Wang denied them access and fabricated reasons for the denial. The fabricated reasons included that the facilities were undergoing construction and renovation, and that proprietary and confidential information and technology was inside. In reality, however, they did not want the buyers to know that UMI and PBI were obtaining the COVID-19 test kits from China. Zhu is currently detained in custody pending his federal trial. His next status conference is scheduled for Sept. 11, 2024. Wang is not in custody. This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the FDA Office of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Arelis Clemente, Joseph Barton, and Henry Carbajal III are prosecuting the case. If convicted, Zhu and Wang each face maximum statutory penalties of 20 years in prison for the conspiracy and wire fraud charges, and an additional three years in prison for the distribution of adulterated and misbranded medical device charges. Zhu also faces another five years in prison for the false statements charge. Any sentences, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations. Zhu and Wang are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. 23cr219.sup_.ind_.0815.pdf


title: South Carolina Residents Ordered to Pay $50,000 Fine and More Than $400,000 in Restitution Following Their Conviction in “Rent-A-Vet” Construction Fraud Scheme Targeting the United States Department of Veterans Affairs

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - Two residents of Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, each were sentenced in federal court on August 13, 2024, to a one-year term of probation, including 100 hours of community service, and ordered to pay a fine of $50,000 along with $403,142 in restitution to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs following their guilty pleas to committing a major fraud against the United States, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. United States District Judge William S. Stickman IV imposed the sentences on Edward DiGorio Jr., 66, and Edward Kessler, 69. Both men formerly resided in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. According to information presented to the Court in connection with the defendants’ earlier guilty pleas, DiGorio and Kessler were the owners of two construction companies, ADDVETCO, Inc., and Hi-Def Contracting, Inc., operating in Pittsburgh. DiGorio and Kessler formed the companies for the purpose of bidding on and acquiring “set-aside” contracts issued by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) to small businesses owned and operated by service-disabled veterans of the U.S. military and pre-certified by the VA as Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Businesses (SDVOBs). Neither DiGorio nor Kessler had served in the military, nor were they service-disabled. DiGorio and Kessler executed a classic “Rent-A-Vet” scheme, in which they paid service-disabled veterans to falsely represent themselves as the primary owners and operators of ADDVETCO and Hi-Def, and to falsely attest to ownership of the companies on critical documents submitted to the VA as part of the SDVOB certification process. During the period of 2007 to 2018, ADDVETCO and Hi-Def were awarded 67 contracts that were intended for SDVOBs, 50 of which were valued at $1 million or more. The two charges to which DiGorio and Kessler each pleaded guilty in March 2024 arose from the two most recent contracts awarded to the companies, for which the defendants received more than $400,000 in profits. “For more than a decade, the defendants in this case cheated a laudable and important program established by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and designed to benefit service-disabled veterans,” said U.S. Attorney Olshan. “DiGorio and Kessler profited shamelessly while defrauding the United States government and depriving many deserving veterans of the opportunity to perform lucrative construction work for the government. We are grateful for the important law enforcement partnerships that helped bring the defendants’ scheme to light and hold them accountable under federal law.” “These sentencings hold the defendants accountable for their role in an elaborate scheme to fraudulently obtain millions of dollars in government contracts from programs designed to benefit service-disabled veteran business owners,” said Special Agent in Charge Kim R. Lampkins of the Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General’s Mid-Atlantic Field Office. “The VA OIG remains committed to diligently pursuing these cases in an effort to maintain the integrity of VA programs. The VA OIG thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania and the FBI for their partnership in this joint investigation.” “The actions of these two individuals to manipulate a system meant to help honest, legitimate veteran-owned businesses not only defrauded the government, but also undermines the integrity of these programs,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek. “The FBI and our partners will not tolerate the exploitation of the honor and sacrifice of those who have served for personal gain.” In imposing the sentences, Judge Stickman emphasized the serious nature of the defendants’ offenses and their shameful disregard for the disabled servicemembers who had served their country, characterizing the defendants’ conduct as akin to “stolen valor.” Judge Stickman further opined that he viewed the defendants’ crimes as driven by “greed and pride.” Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs – Office of Inspector General for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of DiGorio and Kessler.


title: Gulfport Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Child Pornography

body_text: Gulfport, Miss. -- A Gulfport man pled guilty to possession of child pornography. According to court documents, Roy Alexander Johnson, 31, was identified by federal agents as the user of accounts which contained visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Johnson was identified after CyberTip reports from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children led to email accounts which the FBI was able to trace to Johnson. Examinations of the email accounts resulted in the findings of at least 84 videos of visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct to include minors who had not attained 12 years of age. Johnson is scheduled to be sentenced on November 22, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Robert Eikhoff of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of investigators and forensic examiners of the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrea Jones 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 Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), 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.projectsafechildhood.


title: Jackson Man Sentenced to 41 Months in Prison for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to 41 months in prison for possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. According to court documents, Marcus Delars Branson, 27, was found in possession of a firearm by officers with the U.S. Probation Office during a visit to his home. Branson had a prior federal felony conviction for bank robbery and was on supervised release at the time. Branson was subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury for illegal possession of a firearm. He pled guilty on April 29, 2024. Branson faces a separate sentence of two years in prison for violating the terms of his federal supervised release by possessing the weapon that was the subject of the indictment. The two-year sentence for violating the terms of his supervised release will run consecutive to his 41-month sentence. Branson will not be eligible for parole because there is no parole in the federal system. U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement. The ATF investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Allen prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Southeast Missouri Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Charge

body_text: CAPE GIRARDEAU – A southeast Missouri man on Thursday admitted receiving and possessing child sexual abuse material. Justin Wade Welker, 40, pleaded guilty in U.S District Court in Cape Girardeau to one count of receipt of child pornography. He admitted receiving and viewing child sex abuse material, including pictures and videos, on his phone. The investigation began when the FBI office in Detroit alerted their counterparts in St. Louis that two people were discussing engaging in sex acts with a minor on the Kik messaging and chat app. The FBI had traced one of the participants to Welker’s home in the village of Sedgewickville, in Bollinger County, Missouri. FBI agents approached Welker at work, and he admitted viewing child pornography via Kik. Welker is scheduled to be sentenced November 12. The charge carries a penalty of five to 20 years in prison. The FBI and the Bollinger County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Hunter 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: Lansing Man Convicted Of Possessing A Machinegun

body_text: GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a federal jury convicted Valentino Wallace, 22, of Lansing, with possession of a machinegun. Wallace is scheduled to be sentenced in the coming months. “The gun violence epidemic is devastating families in Michigan and across our nation,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “The increased prevalence of switches, or machinegun conversion devices, that can spray up to a thousand rounds per minute with a single pull of the trigger presents an added level of danger to our communities. Offenders who possess these devices face the very real possibility of federal prosecution.” In February 2023, Lansing Police Department officers were conducting surveillance at Wallace’s house as part of a shooting investigation. Wallace left the house and officers attempted a traffic stop, but Wallace ran from the car. Officers caught and arrested him and found a loaded Glock pistol with an extended magazine and a switch attached in the snow nearby. In the weeks preceding the incident, Wallace posted photos on social media showing himself holding the same gun and made other posts referring to Glock switches. Testing showed that the extended magazine, which held 31 rounds, could be emptied in about a second and a half with a single pull of the trigger due to the installation of the switch on the gun. “I would like to thank U.S. Attorney Mark Totten and his team for standing firm on gun crime by charging Valentino Wallace,” said Lansing Police Chief Rob Backus. “This case is one of many that demonstrates our dedication to ensuring criminals are held accountable. By collaborating with our federal partners, we are actively working to make Lansing safer for all.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and Lansing Police Department investigated this case, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Doaa Al-Howaishy and Nils Kessler are prosecuting it. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. For more information, visit www.justice.gov/psn . # # #


title: Luzerne County Woman Convicted for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Asiana Christine Williams, age 30, of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania, was convicted on August 13, 2024 for the distribution of fentanyl resulting in death following a 7-day trial before United States District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Williams was a drug dealer residing in Wilkes-Barre in 2020. On February 15, 2020, Williams sold a quantity of fentanyl to a woman who ingested the fentanyl and died within two hours of the sale. Williams was also found guilty of another sale of fentanyl that occurred on March 5, 2020, and for maintaining drug-involved premises at 76 Lockhart Street in Wilkes-Barre from December 2018 through May 2020. During the seven-day trial, prosecutors from the U.S. Attorney’s Office presented the testimony from approximately 24 witnesses, including expert witness testimony from a forensic pathologist, a forensic toxicologist, a medical toxicologist, a forensic cell phone examiner, and an expert in the field of cell site analysis. The charges stem from a joint investigation involving the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in Scranton, the Lehman Township Police Department, and the Luzerne County Drug Task Force. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Olshefski and Kyle Moreno. This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin and fentanyl. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses. This case is also 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. In this case, the maximum penalty under the federal statute for drug distribution resulting in death is life imprisonment. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. # # #


title: Spokane Man Sentenced for Armed Robbery of Kalispel Market

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Bryan Wokal, 61, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced on one count of Robbery Affecting Commerce. Chief United States District Judge Stanley A. Bastian imposed a sentence of 72 months in federal prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, on January 2, 2024, Wokal walked into the Kalispel Market on the Kalispel Indian Reservation in Airway Heights. Wokal approached the cashier, pulled out a gun, pointed it at the cashier, and demanded $400. When the cashier did not immediately respond, Wokal cocked the gun and repeated his demand. The cashier removed the money from the cash register and gave it to Wokal. Wokal then left the market. The next day, Wokal was arrested by the Spokane Police Department. “Mr. Wokal’s armed robbery put employees and shoppers in grave danger and left the cashier with lasting trauma,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am grateful for the quick work of the FBI, Kalispel Tribal Police, Spokane Police Department and Spokane Sheriff’s Office to identify Mr. Wokal and ensure he would be held accountable for the danger and harm he caused to the Kalispel Tribal Community.” “The Kalispel Tribal Police Department is committed to ensuring the safety and security of our community,” said Kalispel Tribal Police Chief Rodney Schurger. “By working closely with the FBI, Spokane Police Department, and Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, we are combining resources and expertise to bring criminals to justice more swiftly and effectively.” “The safety and security of our guests, Tribal Members, and Team Members continues to be our number one priority,” says Kalispel Tribal Council Vice Chair Curt Holmes. “We recognize that violent crime continues to escalate across the nation, as well as right here in our own communities. We are grateful for the quick efforts of our Kalispel Tribal Police Department, as well as the assistance of the FBI, Spokane Police Department and the Spokane Sheriff’s Office in making this arrest. We also appreciate the diligent work of the US Attorney’s Office in prosecuting offenders like Mr. Wokal to the fullest extent of the law.” 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN. This case was investigated by the FBI, Kalispel Tribal Police, Spokane Police Department, and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael Ellis and Nowles Heinrich.


title: Woodford County Man Sentenced for Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Trafficking

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: ASHLAND, Ky. – A Versailles, Ky., man, Francisco Camacho, Jr., 31, was sentenced on Wednesday, by U.S. District Judge David Bunning, to 198 months in prison, for conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 500 grams of methamphetamine. According to his plea agreement, Camacho agreed with others to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in the Eastern District of Kentucky and the Southern District of West Virginia. During an investigation conducted by law enforcement officers from the AHIDTA Northeast Kentucky Drug Task Force, ATF, and the DEA, Camacho was identified as a source of supply of methamphetamine and fentanyl in Kentucky and West Virginia. From March 2021 to April 2022, law enforcement officers uncovered evidence that Camacho was responsible for the distribution of over 400 grams of fentanyl and 500 grams of methamphetamine. Camacho had previously been convicted by the U.S. District Court, Eastern District of Kentucky, of conspiracy to distribute narcotics. Under federal law, Camacho must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years. Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Erek Davodowich, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Louisville Field Division; Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Louisville Field Division; and the AHIDTA NKDTF, jointly announced the sentencing. The investigation was conducted by the DEA, the ATF, and the AHIDTA NKDTF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. — END —


title: Minneapolis Daycare Worker Charged with Producing Child Pornography After Taking Photos of Children in His Care

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has been charged with producing child pornography, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, between June 17, 2024, and June 18, 2024, Eric Phillip Allen, 39, of Minneapolis, used a minor to produce sexually explicit images. Allen also faces charges in Hennepin County related to these same allegations. The federal complaint charges Allen with one count of production of child pornography. Allen made his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge David T. Schultz. He was ordered to remain in custody pending a formal detention hearing on Tuesday, August 20, 2024, before Magistrate Judge Elizabeth Cowan Wright. Investigators believe there may be other victims relevant to this investigation. If your minor dependent(s) have been in contact with Eric Phillip Allen, please contact the Minnesota BCA’s Tip Line at 1-877-996-6222 or email bca.tips@state.mn.us . 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. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), 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 . This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melinda A. Williams and Thomas Calhoun-Lopez are prosecuting the case. A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. allen_indictment.pdf allen_complaint.pdf


title: Spring resident admits to embezzling over $900,000 from local HVAC company

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – A 51-year-old woman has pleaded guilty in a wire fraud embezzlement scheme, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. For approximately 26 years, Sonia Yvonne Rodriguez worked as an office manager for a local heating, ventilating and air-conditioning company. As part of her plea, Rodriguez admitted to embezzling $938,387.26 in business funds allocated for federal tax payments from 2015 to 2020. Rodriguez would key payments into the company’s accounting software for tax payments and subsequently clear out the payments from the check register upon making the payments into her personal bank account. U.S. District Judge Alfred H. Bennett accepted the plea and has set sentencing for Nov. 21. At that time, Rodriguez faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. She was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing. The Secret Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sherin Daniel and James Hu prosecuted the case.


title: Large-Scale Counterfeit Pill Manufacturer Indicted on Drug Offenses and Pandemic Loan Fraud

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Cambridge man was indicted yesterday by a federal grand jury in connection with an ongoing investigation into counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine. It is alleged that the defendant is responsible for the manufacturing over 200 kilograms of counterfeit pills. Schuyler Oppenheimer, a/k/a “SK,” a/k/a “Michael Sylvain,” 33, has been charged with possession of 500 grams and more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and two counts of wire fraud. An arraignment date has not yet been set. The defendant was arrested and charged by criminal complaint on July 18, 2024. According to court documents, Oppenheimer is alleged to be technically skilled in the chemical processes used in the synthesis of fentanyl, the compounding of controlled substances for distribution and the manufacturing of counterfeit pills. As alleged, recipes, pill press molds used in the manufacturing process, documents and invoices demonstrating that Oppenheimer purchased numerous pill presses and parts for pill presses from online vendors were seized. It also alleged that multiple packages shipped from China to Oppenheimer, and various associates of Oppenheimer, that contained pill press parts were also seized. It is alleged that since 2019, Oppenheimer obtained over 200 kilograms of these filler powders. According to the recipes recovered during the investigation, when manufactured into counterfeit pills, 200 kilograms of filler powder equates to millions of counterfeit pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine. Oppenheimer is alleged to have communicated directly with an illegal chemical supplier based in China. Oppenheimer allegedly inquired about the availability of controlled substances and fentanyl precursor chemicals and sought to purchase kilogram quantities of these substances. Fentanyl precursor chemicals are substances that can be used to synthesize raw fentanyl in a laboratory setting. It is alleged that Oppenheimer sought to synthesize his own fentanyl through the importation of these fentanyl precursor chemicals into the United States. Lastly, Oppenheimer is alleged to have obtained over $40,000 through two fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program loan applications that were submitted in April 2021 over the internet. Oppenheimer is also alleged to have submitted false statements concerning his income through self-employment for the 2019 tax years and provided false tax return documents substantiating that income. During the execution of a search warrant on Parker Street in Cambridge on July 18, 2024, over five kilograms of suspected counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine and a loaded firearm were recovered. Based on prior felony convictions, Oppenheimer is prohibited from possessing firearms. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of wire fraud provides for a maximum penalty of up to 20 years, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Matthew McCarthy, Acting Director of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and Interim Colonel Mawn, Jr of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Cambridge Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Minneapolis Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of Machineguns

body_text: ST. PAUL, Minn. – A Minneapolis man has been sentenced to 63 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally possessing machineguns, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, on February 8, 2023, law enforcement observed a silver Mazda CX9 commit multiple traffic violations and attempted a traffic stop. The vehicle fled at a high rate of speed, abruptly stopped to allow three occupants to flee on foot, and then drove away. Antanie Syre Alonzo Johnson, 21, was one of the individuals that fled on foot. Law enforcement quickly located Johnson running through an adjacent parking lot. He ultimately surrendered and informed officers that he was armed. Law enforcement subsequently recovered two firearms, a stolen 9 mm Glock and a 9 mm “ghost gun” or a “privately made firearm” (PMF). Both weapons were fully loaded with extended magazines and equipped with “switches” that allowed the firearms to be fired as fully automatic weapons with the single pull of the trigger. On November 8, 2023—after obtaining presentence release—law enforcement observed Johnson engaging in what appeared to be hand-to-hand drug transactions. The officers attempted to engage Johnson, who fled on foot through a covered parking garage. A witness in the parking garage indicated Johnson had dropped something while he ran. Law enforcement recovered a loaded 9 mm Glock equipped with a “switch.” In a subsequent search of Johnson’s backpack, agents also discovered 100 grams of marijuana, a digital scale, and cash. On April 25, 2024, Johnson pleaded guilty to his unlawful possession of machineguns on both occasions. U.S. District Court Judge Eric C. Tostrud sentenced Johnson yesterday to a guidelines sentence and specifically admonished him for squandering the rare opportunity that presentence release had provided. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minneapolis Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing prosecuted the case.


title: Dunn County, ND, Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Sexually Exploiting Minor Children

component: USAO - North Dakota

body_text: BISMARCK – United States Attorney Mac Schneider announced that on August 14, 2024, United States District Court Judge Daniel M. Traynor sentenced Jason Lathe Hutchinson, Age 54 of Dunn County, ND, to serve 450 months’ imprisonment and a lifetime of supervised release for the charges of three counts of producing and eight counts of attempting to produce images depicting the sexual exploitation of minors. In 2023, a report was made to law enforcement that Hutchinson was placing hidden cameras in bathrooms on his properties to capture images of minors in various states of nudity while going to the bathroom or entering/exiting the shower. A search warrant was obtained, and it was determined that Hutchinson had been engaging in this practice since 1992 and had captured images of at least eleven different minors, ranging from 5 to 17 years of age, in various states of nudity during that time. Hutchinson admitted to this conduct to both law enforcement and during an earlier change of plea hearing before the court. “This long sentence is a fair one considering the shocking and predatory crimes at issue in this case, “The United States Attorney’s Office and our partners in law enforcement are committed to protecting North Dakota kids. We will continue to vigorously pursue child predators online and, in the community, and bring them to justice in federal court.” “Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) St. Paul special agents play a very important role in protecting the public from exploitation in all its forms, especially the sexual exploitation of children,” said Jamie Holt, HSI St. Paul Special Agent in Charge. “The sentence handed down to Hutchinson sends a clear message to predators that they will be held accountable, and they are subject to significant punishments for preying on the most vulnerable in our communities.” This case was investigated by the Homeland Security Investigations, North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigations and the Dunn County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Gary Delorme. ######


title: Marion Man Sentenced to 97 Months in Prison

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

body_text: FORT WAYNE–Kenneth E. Smith, 46 years old, of Marion, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to possessing a controlled substance with intent to distribute, carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. Smith was sentenced to 97 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, on March 12, 2020, Smith possessed crack cocaine intended for distribution. On this same date, Smith was carrying a firearm as a means of protecting his drug trafficking activity. Smith’s possession of the firearm was also prohibited because he was previously convicted of a felony offense. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Indiana State Police, and the Grant County Joint Effort Against Narcotics (JEAN), which is a task force composed of the Grant County Sheriff’s Department and the Marion Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony Geller.


title: National Constitutional Militia Member Sentenced for Illegal Gun Possession

body_text: A convicted felon and member of an anti-government extremist group who took part in online discussions to kidnap and attack federal officials on Thanksgiving Day 2022 was sentenced to prison for illegally possessing firearms during a trip to Georgia. Joshua Colston, 50, of Corinth, Mississippi, was sentenced today to serve 48 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Colston previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on Oct. 18, 2023. According to court documents and other information presented in court, the FBI learned that Colston and others participated in discussions on a Zello chat channel titled “NCM Leadership.” Zello is an encrypted push-to-talk application used on cellular phones. “NCM” stands for National Constitutional Militia, an anti-government extremist organization. Colston and other NCM members discussed a plan to kidnap or attack elected federal officials on Thanksgiving Day 2022. Ultimately, the Thanksgiving Day plan was never developed due to the group’s lack of resources and the poor health of the members. FBI agents took Colston into custody in Fitzgerald, Georgia, on Dec. 14, 2022, where Colston went to purchase horses. He told agents that he planned to travel horseback across the country for several years, and he was preparing to go “off the grid.” Colston, who has prior felony convictions, was found to be in illegal possession of five firearms: a 9mm semiautomatic pistol, .40 semiautomatic pistol, .22 semiautomatic rifle, semiautomatic shotgun and .44 lever-action rifle. The semiautomatic rifle was reported stolen in Alcorn County, Mississippi. In addition to the firearms, Colston had a bulletproof vest and more than 3,500 rounds of ammunition, including armor-piercing rounds, in his vehicle. FBI believed that Colston had training in explosives. Colston has prior state convictions in Texas for felony theft and felony criminal mischief. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess firearms. Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary for the Middle District of Georgia and Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch made the announcement. The FBI and Ben Hill County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case with assistance from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.


title: Man from Hawaii Sentenced to 20 Years for Sextortion of Missouri Teen

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark on Thursday sentenced a man from Hawaii to 20 years in prison for the sextortion of a 14-year-old Missouri girl and the distribution of explicit images of other minors. Gerardo Javier Montes traded child sexual abuse material with others online, including images of his former girlfriends when they were minors and other child victims that he provided with money, gift cards, clothes, sexual toys or electronics in exchange for nude images. Those victims include one girl in Oklahoma, one in Texas and one in Colorado. Montes made posts and comments in teen-focused Reddit groups, as well as groups discussing depression and rape fantasies. He also admitted seeking child sexual abuse material from other minors online. In February of 2021, he asked someone who said she had been sexually abused as a minor for nude images of herself when she was 13. In December 2021, Montes asked a 12-year-old girl if she wanted to see his genitals and asked to see her nude. Between Dec. 6, 2021, and Jan. 14, 2022, Montes communicated with the 14-year-old Missouri victim via Reddit. She thought he was 21 but later found out that he was 31. Montes turned their conversations to sexual matters and gave her advice on how to create nude images. He also sent her an explicit image of a 15-year-old that he said was an ex-girlfriend. At one point, she sent him an image of herself in a bra and a picture of herself topless. Montes requested more pictures from the victim. She later told Montes her full name. On Jan. 13, 2022, the victim tried to cut off contact with Montes. He threatened to post nude photos of her on multiple social media sites and send those images to “every school in the state.” He demanded more pictures, providing a detailed list of what he wanted, and tried to get her to engage in sexual activity with a dog. He also created a fake Reddit account, pretending to be a 15-year-old girl, to try and trick the victim into providing nude images. On Jan. 15, 2022, he sent images of the victim to someone else via Discord. An investigation began after the FBI received a tip about the sextortion and traced the blackmailer to Hawaii. They performed a court-approved search of his home and seized electronic devices that contained child sexual abuse material. “We are not only holding Gerardo Montes accountable for his crimes, we have stopped him in his tracks from exploiting more victims,” said Acting Special Agent in Charger Chris Crocker of the FBI St. Louis Division. “Montes spent significant time hunting and manipulating young girls who were vulnerable to his abuse. Children in our community are safer today with Montes behind bars.” Montes, 33, pleaded guilty in March to one felony count of distribution of child pornography. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Bateman prosecuted the case. The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) has detailed information on resources for sextortion victims, including videos and discussion guides to help explain the problem to children and adults. They also have a step-by-step guide on how to report pictures or videos of children to social media companies and flag pictures so that the companies will seek out and remove the images. To report sextortion, contact local law enforcement or the FBI by calling Call 1-800-CALL-FBI, contacting your local FBI office , or reporting it online at tips.fbi.gov or cybertipline.org . 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: Effingham County Man Accused of Financial Exploitation of an Elder

body_text: FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – An Effingham County man is facing multiple federal charges for accusations of defrauding and stealing more than $330,000 from an elderly individual. A federal grand jury charged Edward L. Stief, Jr., 41, with five counts of wire fraud, one count of mail fraud and one count of monetary transaction in criminally derived property. “Financial exploitation of vulnerable populations is deplorable, and the Department of Justice is committed to supporting victims and combatting elder abuse in its many forms against offenders intent on enriching themselves at another’s expense,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. According to the charging document, Stief convinced the victim to appoint him as his Financial and Healthcare Power of Attorney in May 2023. In October 2023, Stief persuaded the victim to leave a nursing home facility and move into his full-time care. Stief was a signatory on the victim’s bank accounts, talked the victim into cashing out life insurance policies and deposited most of the victim’s money into Stief’s personal bank accounts. “Seniors are a particularly vulnerable victim group and are often specifically targeted for financial fraud,” said FBI Springfield Special Agent in Charge Christopher Johnson. “Criminals who exploit this vulnerability can wreak havoc on elderly victims’ financial, psychological, and physical well-being. The FBI encourages anyone who believes they are a victim of fraud or knows a senior who may be, to immediately report the incident to law enforcement.” Stief is in federal custody pending a bail hearing scheduled for 1:30 p.m. on Aug. 29 at the federal courthouse in Benton. An indictment is merely a formal charge against a defendant. Under the law, a defendant is presumed to be innocent of a charge until proved guilty beyond a reasonable doubt to the satisfaction of a jury. Convictions for wire and mail fraud are punishable by up to 20 years’ imprisonment and monetary transaction in criminally derived property is punishable by up to 10 years’ imprisonment. The FBI Springfield Field Office is leading the investigation with support from the Effingham Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathleen Howard is prosecuting the case. The National Elder Fraud Hotline is a service from the U.S. Department of Justice that helps victims over 60 years report crimes and access resources. The hotline is available Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. ET, at (833) 372-8311 or (833) FRAUD-11. Callers can remain anonymous, and translation services are available.


title: Bronx Resident Arrested For Possessing Automatic Weapons And Machinegun Conversion Devices

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Edward A. Caban, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced today the arrest of FAREED DABIDAH for possessing numerous fully automatic firearms, semi-automatic firearms, silencers, and dozens of machinegun conversion devices in the Bronx. DABIDAH was arrested this morning and will be presented later today in front of U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah L. Cave. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Fareed Dabidah built dozens of ghost guns – some by using 3D printing – at his apartment in the Bronx. He allegedly converted many of the ghost guns into fully automatic weapons and had everything he needed to convert many more. Machinegun conversion devices, like the 39 the defendant possessed, are particularly dangerous gun accessories that turn ordinary firearms into fully automatic weapons. Removing these extraordinarily dangerous devices from our streets is an important law enforcement goal, and this Office will keep working diligently with our law enforcement partners to keep these devices and other illegal guns out of New York City.” NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban said: “NYPD investigators’ meticulous work in this case underscores our efforts to eradicate gun violence by stopping homemade, untraceable ghost guns and other illegal firearms from ever reaching New York City streets. I thank our federal colleagues for their partnership and their continued dedication to our shared public safety mission.” According to the allegations in the Complaint: 1 Beginning as early as October 2022, DABIDAH ordered from various online retailers the components needed to 3D print and assemble numerous privately made firearms, which are commonly referred to as “ghost guns.” On August 15, 2024, law enforcement agents conducted a search of DABIDAH’s apartment, pursuant to a judicially authorized search warrant. During the execution of the warrant, law enforcement officers found, among other things, approximately 39 machinegun conversion devices; 14 completed ghost guns, including six with machinegun conversion devices installed; five partially assembled, 3D printed assault rifles, including two with machinegun conversion devices installed; two firearms silencers; two 3D printers; and various magazines and ammunition for use in the recovered firearms. A “machinegun conversion device” is an item that converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic weapon by circumventing the weapon’s intended cycle. Colloquially, machinegun conversion devices for handguns are frequently referred to as “Glock switches” and ones for assault rifles are referred to as “auto sears.” Federal law prohibits the unlicensed possession of machineguns, a term that includes machinegun conversion devices. The photographs below show many of the firearms recovered during the search of DABIDAH’s residence this morning, including 3D printed handguns and assault rifles, and a handgun and assault rifle with machinegun conversion devices installed. 3D Printed Handguns and Assault Rifles 9mm Ghost Gun with Glock Switch Assault Rifle with Auto Sear * * * DABIDAH, 22, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of possession of a machinegun, which carries a maximum potential sentence of 10 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work the NYPD and further thanked the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Postal Inspection Service; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and Homeland Security Investigations for their assistance in the investigation. The case is being handled by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Jones is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 1 As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: Citizen of Mexico Sentenced to 235 Months in Prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: SOUTH BEND – Guadalupe Reyes, Jr., 50 years old, a citizen of Mexico living in Elkhart, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Damon R. Leichty after pleading guilty to distribution of 400 grams or more of fentanyl, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. Reyes was sentenced to 235 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, on three occasions between August and October 2022, Reyes oversaw the shipment of more than 3,000 fentanyl pills through the U.S. mail from the Northern District of Indiana to a buyer in Texas. Reyes participated in phone calls with the buyer to negotiate the amount and price of the pills, and then recruited and compensated co-defendant, Jerry Edwards, to mail the pills from various locations within the Northern District of Indiana. Reyes was arrested in November 2022, after arranging a person-to-person sale of 10,000 fentanyl pills. In total, Reyes distributed over 1,400 grams of fentanyl. “This case demonstrates that drug traffickers will use every available means - including the U.S. mail – to distribute their illegal product throughout the country. My Office, in partnership with the DEA and other agencies, will investigative and prosecute all persons who engage in the illegal narcotics trade,” said United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. “These coordinated efforts are particularly important when fentanyl, a substance that is 100 times more potent than morphine and 50 times more potent than heroin, is being trafficked.” “Fentanyl remains the deadliest drug threat facing our country. Often found in fake pills, illicit fentanyl was responsible for almost 70% of the nearly 111,000 fatal drug overdoses and poisonings in our country last year. One fake pill containing 2 milligrams of illicit fentanyl is enough to kill,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Assistant Special Agent in Charge Alfred A. Cooke III. “Together with its partners from the St. Joseph County Police Department, Mishawaka Police Department, South Bend Police Department, Indiana State Police, Elkhart County ICE Unit, and other federal agencies, the DEA continues its pursuit of the cruel and wicked who are fueling northern Indiana with this poison we call fentanyl. Today’s federal sentencing in South Bend should be a sign that drug trafficking – and fentanyl - are not welcomed here. The collaborative spirit among law enforcement in northern Indiana is strong and we remain committed to the destruction of drug trafficking organizations in our region.” This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the St. Joseph County Police Department, the Mishawaka Police Department, the South Bend Police Department, the Indiana State Police, the Elkhart County ICE Unit and the DEA North and South-Central Laboratories. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Katelan McKenzie Doyle and Joel Gabrielse.


title: St. Lawrence County Man Sentenced for Sexual Exploitation of a Child

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Skyler Keleher, age 23, of St. Lawrence County, was sentenced today to serve 30 years in federal prison for his conviction on two counts of Sexual Exploitation of a Child. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman, Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and New York State Police Superintendent Steven G. James made the announcement. In his prior guilty plea, Keleher admitted that on at least two separate occasions in 2017 he sexually abused a two-year-old child and livestreamed the abuse to others over the Internet, using Facebook Messenger and Facebook Live. Since then, video recordings of the abuse have been widely circulated over the Internet, and recovered by law enforcement in at least 26 separate investigations across the United States and abroad. While the videos were first documented by law enforcement in 2018, Keleher’s identity was not confirmed until 2022, at which time he was arrested by authorities. Following his term of imprisonment, Keleher will be placed on a term of supervised release for life, and will be required to register as a sex offender. This case was investigated by FBI Operation Rescue Me, the FBI’s Albany Division Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, and the New York State Police, Troop B. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa M. Fletcher, Project Safe Childhood Coordinator for the Northern District of New York, prosecuted the case. 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov .


title: Waite Park Man Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Armed Bank Robbery

body_text: ST PAUL, Minn. – A Waite Park man has been sentenced to 78 months in prison, five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $8,210 in restitution for the 2021 robbery of a St. Cloud bank, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, on May 6, 2021, Ray Reco McNeary, 39, entered a Wells Fargo Bank in St. Cloud and alleged that there was fraud on his bank account. After the bank manager was unable to locate any accounts belonging to McNeary, McNeary became enraged and demanded that $60,000 in cash be taken from the vault and placed in a bank bag. The bank manager activated the silent panic alarm, notifying law enforcement of a problem at the bank. According to court documents, upon arrival, St. Cloud police officers learned that five employees of the bank were being held hostage by McNeary. Multiple times throughout the incident, McNeary held a pair of scissors against the bank manager’s neck and back. FBI hostage negotiators spoke with McNeary repeatedly during what turned out to be an eight-hour standoff. During the course of negotiations, four of the employees were allowed to leave the bank. The standoff ended at approximately 10:24 p.m. when the bank manager fled the bank and law enforcement moved in to arrest McNeary. On March 29, 2024, McNeary pleaded guilty to one count of armed bank robbery. He was sentenced today in U.S. District Court before Judge Jeffrey M. Bryan. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the St. Cloud Police Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney David P. Steinkamp prosecuted the case.


title: Treasurer of Labor Union Charged with Embezzlement

body_text: BOSTON – A Leominster man was arrested today for embezzling from a labor union. Joe Scott, Jr., 53, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Worcester on one count of embezzlement from a labor union. Following an initial appearance this afternoon in federal court in Worcester, Scott was released on conditions. According to the indictment, Scott was the Treasurer of the International Union of Electrical Workers, Communication Workers of America, Local 81154 (“IUE-CWA Local 81154”), a labor union chapter based in Gardner, Mass., that represents union members from various employers in Massachusetts. It is alleged that Scott used his position as Treasurer to embezzle approximately $49,000 from IUE-CWA Local 81154, by making debit card expenditures, withdrawing funds and issuing checks, from union bank accounts, all for Scott’s personal benefit. It is alleged that Scott used the money to pay for, among other things, storage costs, home internet and cell phone services, electrical and gas services, home improvement tools, dumpster rental and personal expense while on vacation. Scott faces a sentence of up to five years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jonathan Russo, District Director, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Labor-Management Standards made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brendan O’Shea of the Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Selling Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: CAPE GIRARDEAU – U.S. District Judge Stephen N. Limbaugh Jr. on Thursday sentenced a man who sold methamphetamine to a confidential informant to 10 years in prison. Adrian L. Lewis, 43, of Charleston, Missouri, pleaded guilty in May to one count of distribution of methamphetamine. He admitted selling two ounces of meth to a confidential informant working for the Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force on Oct. 10, 2023. Lewis was deemed a “career offender” due to prior drug offenses. The Southeast Missouri Drug Task Force investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Hunter is prosecuting the case.


title: Federal Jury in Louisville Finds Repeat Sex Offender Guilty of Possession of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – Yesterday a federal jury convicted a Louisville man of one count of possession of child pornography after a two-day jury trial. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service made the announcement. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, during a home visit on September 1, 2022, by a United States Probation Officer, Jason Florence, age 49, possessed an unauthorized and unmonitored cellular telephone that contained images and videos of child pornography. At the time of the home visit, Florence was on supervised release for a prior conviction of attempt to transport child pornography and possession of child pornography in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky in 2015. Florence is scheduled for sentencing on November 19, 2024, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The Court ordered Florence remain detained pending sentencing. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system. The United States Secret Service is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Spencer McKiness and Danielle Yannelli are prosecuting the case, with assistance from paralegal Julie Mason. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.” ###


title: Company Sentenced to Pay $6.5M Criminal Fine  for Bid Rigging in Michigan Asphalt Industry

component: Antitrust Division

body_text: A Michigan company was sentenced today to pay a criminal fine of $6.5 million for its role in conspiracies to rig bids for asphalt paving services contracts in the State of Michigan. Pontiac-based Asphalt Specialists LLC pleaded guilty for its conduct on Jan. 30. According to court documents and proceedings, the company participated in a conspiracy with Al’s Asphalt Paving Company Inc. (Al’s Asphalt) and its employees from March 2013 through November 2018. The company also participated in a separate conspiracy with F. Allied Construction Company Inc. (Allied) and its employees from July 2017 through May 2021. Each conspiracy operated in much the same way: the co-conspirators coordinated each other’s bid prices so that the agreed-upon losing company would submit intentionally non-competitive bids. These bids gave customers the false impression of competition when, in fact, the co-conspirators had already decided among themselves who would win the contracts. “When companies choose to cheat rather than compete, they can expect to pay substantial, punitive criminal fines,” said Deputy Assistant Attorney General Manish Kumar of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The Antitrust Division and its law enforcement partners will not hesitate in our shared mission to ensure those who violate the antitrust laws do not benefit from their crimes, particularly when those crimes affect critical infrastructure for our country.” “The sentence imposed today should serve as a significant deterrent for anyone who chooses corporate greed over open and fair competition for transportation projects,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Licari Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General (DOT-OIG), Midwestern Region. “Our commitment to working with our law enforcement partners and the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division is unwavering as we continue to pursue and uncover corrupt conduct and hold companies that intentionally engage in wrongdoing accountable.” “Asphalt Specialist LLC’s sentence reflects the seriousness of conduct that undermines the competitive process,” said Executive Special Agent in Charge Kenneth Cleevely of the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) Office of the Inspector General. “This sentencing represents a win for the USPS and for all law enforcement agencies who work together to protect the competitive process and to ensure that justice is served.” Asphalt Specialists LLC is one of three companies that have been charged as part of an ongoing federal antitrust investigation into bid rigging and other anticompetitive conduct in the asphalt paving services industry. Al’s Asphalt pleaded guilty and was sentenced to pay a fine of $795,661.81 on July 31. Allied also pleaded guilty and is awaiting sentencing. Six individuals also have been charged as part of the investigation. DOT-OIG and USPS OIG investigated the case. The Antitrust Division’s Chicago Office is prosecuting the case. Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258 or visit www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations .


title: Maryland Man Sentenced for Role in Scheme to Steal More Than $1.5M from Victims Throughout the United States

component: Civil Division

body_text: A Maryland man was sentenced today to 30 months in prison in Baltimore federal court for conspiracy to commit bank fraud. According to court documents, Theodore Sapperstein, age 67, formerly of Pikesville, and his coconspirators unlawfully debited money from the bank accounts of unknowing victims throughout the United States without their authorization by creating shell companies and falsely representing to banks that debits against consumer-victims’ bank accounts were authorized as payment for services allegedly provided by those shell companies. To both conceal and continue conducting unauthorized debits, the scheme’s shell companies generated “micro debits” against other bank accounts controlled and funded by the scheme. The micro debits artificially lowered shell companies’ return rates to levels that conspirators believed would reduce bank scrutiny and lessen potential negative impact on the scheme’s banking relations. Sapperstein facilitated the scheme’s use of fraudulent micro debits and helped broker payment processing services for the scheme, securing a payment processor whose company processed the unauthorized debits. The scheme caused more than $1.5 million in loss to victims throughout the United States. “Those who knowingly participate in schemes to use personal financial information about American consumers to steal money from their accounts will be held accountable,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We are committed to investigating and prosecuting individuals who facilitate such schemes.” “For those who think they can take the easy road to financial gains by stealing money people have worked hard for, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service wants you to know we will hold you accountable for the pain and losses you cause,” said Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) Criminal Investigations Group. “Today’s sentencing of Mr. Sapperstein along with others who knowingly participated in these schemes is the culmination of relentless teamwork by law enforcement to bring these criminals to justice and continue to vigilantly protect the American public.” “My office is committed to ferreting out and punishing the predatory conduct of white collar fraudsters who utilize, and often hide behind, shell companies and phony accounting and bookkeeping practices to steal money from unsuspecting victims,” said U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron for the District of Maryland. In July, Shoaib Ahmad of Canada was charged in the Central District of California with conspiracy to commit bank and wire fraud for his role in the scheme. That matter remains ongoing. According to court documents, the scheme is related to a longer-running scheme that has been the subject of multiple cases filed in Los Angeles, San Diego and Las Vegas. In May 2023, a grand jury in Los Angeles returned an indictment in United States v. Courdy, et al. charging 14 defendants with RICO conspiracy and other charges in the Central District of California. On July 30, a grand jury in Los Angeles returned an indictment in United States v. LoConti, et al. charging six additional scheme participants with RICO conspiracy and other charges. These indictments allege that the defendants and associates debited consumer-victims’ bank accounts without authorization and used shell entities and “micro debits” to conceal the activity from banks. The “Information for Victims in Large Cases” section on the Consumer Protection Branch’s website contains additional information on United States v. Courdy, et al . In December 2023, scheme participant Luis Ramirez pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit access device fraud in federal court in San Diego. On May 22, Ramirez was sentenced to 51 months in prison for the access device conspiracy, with 24 months to run concurrently to his sentence in a separate case. A related scheme participant, Harold Sobel, pleaded guilty to bank fraud conspiracy in federal court in Las Vegas. In December 2022, Sobel was sentenced to 42 months in prison. USPIS is investigating the case. Trial Attorneys Wei Xiang, Meredith Healy and Amy Kaplan of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Darryl Tarver for the District of Maryland are prosecuting the case against Sapperstein, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Central District of California. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch . Consumer complaints can be filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/ or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Justice Department provides a variety of resources relating to fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov .


title: Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Fentanyl Following His Release From Prison

body_text: BOSTON – A previously convicted felon pleaded guilty today in federal court in Boston to his involvement in a fentanyl distribution conspiracy. Ruben Depina, 24, of Rockland, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams and more of fentanyl; one count of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl; and three counts of distributing and possessing with intent to distribute 40 grams and more of fentanyl. U.S. District Court Judge Julia E. Kobick scheduled sentencing for Nov. 12, 2024. Depina was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in September 2023 and has remained in custody since. In May 2023, a law enforcement officer – who previously worked in an undercover capacity – received a call from Depina who introduced himself as “Jake.” Depina told the officer that he recently got out of jail and was contacting his best customers because he was selling drugs again. Depina subsequently participated in four controlled sales in May and June 2023 during which he sold differing quantities of fentanyl to a confidential informant in exchange for cash. Specifically, on or about May 8, 2023, Depina sold approximately 21 grams of fentanyl to the confidential informant; on or about May 16, 2023, Depina sold at least 40 grams of fentanyl to the informant; on or about May 25, 2023, Depina sold at least 40 grams of fentanyl to the informant; and on or about June 5, 2023, Depina sold at least 40 grams of fentanyl to the informant. On June 11, 2023, local law enforcement observed a vehicle that Depina had used to participate in some of the controlled sales with the informant speeding in East Bridgewater. The vehicle sped off after being stopped by law enforcement. While being pursued, Depina’s vehicle collided with a van at an intersection. When law enforcement approached the vehicle, Depina was observed reaching towards the passenger side floor before complying with instructions to show his hands. Depina was immediately removed through the passenger side window and arrested. During a search of Depina’s vehicle, a loaded firearm, multiple cellphones, a digital scale and a satchel containing at least 20 grams of cocaine base were recovered. On June 12, 2023, during a search of a residence and loft connected to Depina, over 400 grams of fentanyl, multiple cellphones, four firearms, multiple rounds of ammunition, drug paraphernalia (including digital scales and cutting agent) and paperwork in Depina’s name were recovered. The charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years up to life in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl provides for a sentence of at least five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of possession with intent to distribute and distribution of controlled substances, including fentanyl, provides for a sentence of up to 20 years imprisonment, at least three years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office; the Massachusetts State Police; the Suffolk, Plymouth and Bristol County Sheriff's Departments; and the Boston, Brockton, Bridgewater, East Bridgewater, Rockland and Westport Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kaitlin R. O’Donnell of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: Justice Department Secures Agreement in Fair Housing Lawsuit Against Ohio Landlord for Sexually Harassing Tenants

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: The Justice Department announced today that Kevin Martin, an owner and manager of residential rental properties in and around Athens, Ohio, has agreed to pay $170,000 to resolve a lawsuit alleging that he sexually harassed female tenants and housing applicants in violation of the Fair Housing Act. The lawsuit , filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, alleges that, from at least 2010 to at least 2020, Martin requested sex acts from female tenants and applicants; subjected female tenants and applicants to unwelcome sexual touching; made unwelcome sexual comments and advances to female tenants and applicants; demanded that female tenants engage in sex acts with him in order not to lose housing and offered to reduce rent or excuse late or unpaid rent in exchange for sex acts. The lawsuit also alleges that Martin initiated evictions or threatened to evict female tenants who objected to or refused his sexual advances. The lawsuit is the result of a joint investigative effort with the Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Office of Inspector General (HUD OIG). “Every person in our country has the right to seek and obtain safe and affordable housing without being subjected to sexual harassment,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “For over a decade, this landlord sexually harassed and degraded women who were simply seeking the stability and safety that comes with having a roof over your head. The Justice Department will continue to hold landlords accountable when they target and exploit vulnerable tenants and applicants.” “Fair housing is fundamental and this office will continue to work to enforce the protections guaranteed by the Fair Housing Act,” said U.S. Attorney Kenneth L. Parker for the Southern District of Ohio. “No one should have to experience sexual harassment by their landlord.” “We will not tolerate landlords threating or committing sexual harassment or abuse against tenants. Every person deserves to feel safe in their home,” said Inspector General Rae Oliver Davis of HUD. “The allegations against the defendant include initiating evictions or threatening female tenants with the loss of their housing if they didn’t comply with his advances. Victims should not hesitate to report such harassment and abuse to law enforcement authorities. HUD OIG will continue to work with its law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to hold housing providers accountable for this type of horrible conduct.” Under the consent decree , which still must be approved by the district court, Martin has agreed to pay $165,000 to former female tenants and applicants harmed by his harassment and a $5,000 civil penalty to the United States. The consent decree permanently bars Martin from managing residential rental properties, requires him to retain a property manager for properties he continues to own, and mandates training and the adoption of policies and procedures to prevent future discrimination. The Fair Housing Act prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. It also prohibits sexual harassment, a form of sex discrimination. Individuals who believe they may have been victims of sexual harassment in housing may contact the Justice Department by calling the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Tipline at 513 684-2055, emailing usaohs.civilrights@usdoj.gov or completing a Civil Rights referral form at www.justice.gov/usao-sdoh/file/1513341/download . Reports may also be made to HUD at 1-800-669-9777 or by filing a complaint online . The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country. The initiative seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers and other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative in October 2017, the department has filed 45 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered over $17 million for victims of such harassment.


component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBANY, Ga. – A convicted felon and member of an anti-government extremist group who took part in online discussions to kidnap and attack federal officials on Thanksgiving Day 2022 was sentenced to prison for illegally possessing firearms during a trip to Georgia. Joshua Colston, 50, of Corinth, Mississippi, was sentenced to serve 48 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Leslie Gardner on Aug. 15. Colston previously pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on Oct. 18, 2023. There is no parole in the federal system. “Safeguarding our communities from all threats is the top priority of our office and of law enforcement at every level,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Illegally armed convicted felons will face federal prosecution when they are caught with guns in the Middle District of Georgia.” “Thanks to the hard work and collaboration of our law enforcement partners, Colston will spend time behind bars where he will not be able to carry out any of his extremist plans to harm members of our community,” said Rich Bilson, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent of FBI Atlanta’s Albany office. “FBI is determined to hold convicted felons illegally possessing firearms accountable for their crimes.” According to court documents and other information presented in court, FBI learned that Colston and others participated in discussions on a Zello chat channel titled “NCM Leadership.” Zello is an encrypted push-to-talk application used on cellular phones. “NCM” stands for National Constitutional Militia, an anti-government extremist organization. Colston and other NCM members discussed a plan to kidnap or attack elected federal officials on Thanksgiving Day 2022. Ultimately, the Thanksgiving Day plan was never developed due to the group’s lack of resources and the poor health of the members. FBI agents took Colston into custody in Fitzgerald, Georgia, on Dec. 14, 2022, where Colston went to purchase horses. He told agents that he planned to travel horseback across the country for several years, and he was preparing to go “off the grid.” Colston, who has prior felony convictions, was found to be in illegal possession of five firearms: a 9mm semiautomatic pistol, a .40 semiautomatic pistol, a .22 semiautomatic rifle, a semiautomatic shotgun and a .44 lever-action rifle. The semiautomatic rifle was reported stolen in Alcorn County, Mississippi. In addition to the firearms, Colston had a bulletproof vest and more than 3,500 rounds of ammunition, including armor-piercing rounds, in his vehicle. FBI believed that Colston had training in explosives. Colston has prior state convictions in Texas for felony theft and felony criminal mischief. It is illegal for a convicted felon to possess firearms. This case was investigated by FBI and the Ben Hill County Sheriff’s Office. Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes prosecuted the case for the Government with assistance from the Counterterrorism Section of the National Security Division.


title: Little Rock Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison For Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in Death

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Joseph Riggins, Jr., will spend 25 years in federal prison for distributing fentanyl that resulted in a person’s death. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down on Wednesday by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. On November 29, 2023, Riggins, 33, of Little Rock, Arkansas, pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. Judge Moody also sentenced Riggins to three years supervised released. Riggins was indicted on April 5, 2023, on one count of knowingly and intentionally distributing a mixture and substance containing fentanyl that resulted in death. The maximum penalty Riggins faced was not less than 20 years to life in prison and a fine of $1,000,000. There is no parole in the federal system. An investigation revealed that on July 31, 2022, Riggins engaged in a series of text messages with D.M. about Riggins trading heroin to D.M. in exchange for sex. On August 1, 2022, Riggins met with D.M. at a local motel in North Little Rock, Arkansas, where Riggins provided D.M. with a controlled substance containing fentanyl. D.M. later used that controlled substance in the motel room. The following day, August 2, 2022, motel staff members found D.M. deceased inside her motel room. D.M.’s body was subsequently transported to the Arkansas State Crime Laboratory for forensic analysis. An autopsy later determined that D.M.’s death was caused by a mixed drug toxicity of cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. The fentanyl in D.M.’s body at the time of examination was at a level significantly higher than where lethal levels of fentanyl typically begin, according to the medical examiner who conducted the autopsy. The investigation was conducted by the North Little Rock Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Gordon. # # # Additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: Mobile Woman Sentenced for Felony Theft from Social Security Administration

component: USAO - Alabama, Southern

body_text: MOBILE, AL – A Mobile woman who lied about her living situation was sentenced today five years of probation for unlawfully receiving Social Security benefits for many years, a felony offense. According to court documents, Cheryl Bradley, 64, accompanied her husband to the Social Security office in Mobile in January 2023, for her husband to apply for benefits. At the time, she told a clerk that she and her husband were married and had lived together since 1988. This was contrary to what she had told the agency in June 2007, when she applied for benefits and said that they were separated. The agency approved her application for benefits. In 2012, she had told the agency that she and her husband had been separated since about 1990. Those two representations were important because her living situation and her spouse's earnings should have been but were not factored into whether she remained eligible for benefits or as much benefits. The Social Security benefits paid to her over the years were from a needs-based program. In 2021 and 2022, Bradley's husband had substantial earnings as a truck driver, and she had the benefit of those earnings since they were married and lived together. As a result, she was ineligible for benefits in those years, and she was eligible for lesser benefit amounts in the years between 2007 and 2020. The court also ordered that Bradley pay the agency restitution in the amount of $88,626.94, and pay a $100.00 Special Assessment. The Office of Inspector General for the Social Security Administration investigated the case. “For over a decade, Cheryl Bradley falsely reported her marital status and living arrangements to the Social Security Administration (SSA) and fraudulently obtained over $88,000 in needs-based Supplemental Security Income benefits that she should not have gotten. This sentence holds her accountable for her criminal actions and I thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their assistance in prosecuting this case,” stated Rodregas W. Owens, Special Agent in Charge SSA Office of the Inspector General (OIG), Atlanta Field Division. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alex F. Lankford, IV prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.