title: Member of Violent Gang Pleads Guilty to Racketeering and Drug and Firearms Trafficking

body_text: BOSTON – A Boston area man pleaded guilty yesterday to his role in Cameron Street, a violent Boston gang. Felisberto Lopes, also known as “Chee-B,” 40, of Boston, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise, possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and multiple counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Feb. 6, 2025. Lopes was identified as a member of Cameron Street, a violent gang based largely in Dorchester that uses violence to preserve, protect and expand its territory, promote fear and enhance its reputation. According to the charging documents, members use social media applications to promote Cameron Street, celebrate murders and other violent crimes committed by the gang, as well as denigrate rival gangs. Cameron Street members allegedly possess, carry and use firearms to murder and assault gang rivals as well as protect narcotics and drug proceeds. Cameron Street members also allegedly distribute controlled substances and firearms, commit armed robberies and engage in human trafficking in part to generate income for the Cameron Street enterprise. During the investigation Lopes distributed several firearms as well as cocaine to a cooperating witness. On Feb. 26, 2022, law enforcement responded to a shooting that took place at Lopes’ residence in Dorchester. While at the residence, a half-kilogram of cocaine, over $25,000, and over 400 rounds of various calibers of ammunition were seized and Lopes was arrested nearby. Lopes had previously been convicted in Suffolk Superior Court of aggravated assault and battery with a dangerous weapon causing serious bodily injury and served a four year state prison sentence. The charge of RICO conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine with a prior conviction for a crime of violence provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, at least five years of supervised release up to life, and a fine of $10 million. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and or ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a fine of $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. This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Feld Division; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Tampa Felon Convicted At Trial Of Possessing A Firearm And Ammunition

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Vincent Luke Governor, Jr. (34, Tampa) guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Governor faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 11, 2025. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on August 28, 2022, officers with the Tampa Police Department initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven by Governor. Governor was the sole occupant of the vehicle. During the stop, officers observed the odor of marijuana coming from Governor’s vehicle. As Governor was being removed from the vehicle to allow the officers to conduct a search of the vehicle, the officers observed the grip of a handgun underneath the driver’s seat. The firearm (Springfield Armory XD pistol) was loaded with 18 rounds of ammunition. A DNA sample taken from the gun linked Governor to the firearm. The officers also located 80 grams of marijuana in multiple bags and a digital scale in the glove compartment. At the time, Governor had previous felony convictions for burglary of a dwelling, grand theft, possession of burglar tools, and armed robbery. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale. 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: Ten Indicted for Drug Trafficking in Ohio County

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ten people have been indicted for the trafficking of drugs in Ohio County, according to United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld. Defendants from Ohio and West Virginia have been charged with the sale of fentanyl, heroin, methamphetamine, and cocaine. Two of the defendants have also been charged with the illegal possession of firearms. “Continued pressure from law enforcement on drug traffickers will ensure that the downward trend in overdoses we are experiencing continues,” said U.S. Attorney Ihlenfeld. “This latest round of indictments, combined with ongoing treatment and prevention efforts, will help to loosen the grip that addiction has upon communities in West Virginia.” Eight of the ten individuals charged have been arrested, to include: Antoine Blanchard, also known as “Reggie” and “Cadillac Hill,” 49, of Steubenville, Ohio, charged with the distribution and possession of cocaine and the distribution of methamphetamine; Harold Wayne Nice, 40, of Wheeling, West Virginia, charged with the distribution of methamphetamine; Robert Kelly Rogers, 51, of Wheeling, West Virginia, charged with the distribution of methamphetamine and heroin; Charles Smith Rippy, 69, of Wheeling, West Virginia, charged with the distribution of cocaine base; Stephen J. Booker, also known as “Flock,” 31, of Wheeling, West Virginia, charged with the distribution of methamphetamine and heroin and the unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition; Alyssa Marie Abrigg, 33, of Wheeling, West Virginia, charged with the distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine; and Don Speir McFarland, 30, of Wheeling, West Virginia, charged with the distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine. Jeremy Brandon Evans, 35, of Columbus, Ohio, charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and the unlawful possession of a firearm. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Carly Nogay and Clayton Reid are prosecuting the cases on behalf of the government. The cases were investigated by the Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Task Force consists of personnel from the Wheeling Police Department, the Ohio County Sheriff's Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration; and the West Virginia State Police. An indictment is merely an allegation, and each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Paroled Felon Sentenced To Six Years For Fraudulent Use Of Social Security Number And Theft Of Benefits

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung has sentenced Kellis Dion Jackson (63, Pinellas Park), a/k/a Chandler Dante Alexander, to six years in federal prison for making a false statement to a federal agency, theft of government property, and fraudulent use of a Social Security number. As part of his sentence, the court also ordered Jackson to pay restitution in the amount of $46,695. A federal jury found Jackson guilty on August 13, 2024. According to evidence presented at trial, Jackson stole Supplemental Security Income (SSI) disability benefits from the Social Security Administration while on federal supervision for prior federal offenses. Prior to applying for SSI, Jackson obtained a Social Security number (SSN) under the fictional identity of Chandler Dante Alexander by falsely reporting that he had never had an SSN and providing false information regarding his birthdate and parents. Jackson used the fraudulently obtained SSN to get a Commercial Driver’s License, work, file tax returns, get married, and open bank accounts. Jackson then applied for SSI and Supplemental Nutrition Assistance (SNAP) benefits using his birth name and valid SSN. Jackson made false statements on the SSI application and related documents, including falsely stating he was not married, and his application was approved. Jackson’s SSI application would not have been approved had he reported his marriage and work activity under the fraudulently obtained SSN. This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration - Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of the Inspector General, and the United States Department of Agriculture - Office of the Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.


title: Lakeland Man Pleads Guilty To Possessing Ammunition As A Convicted Felon

body_text: Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Solomon Marquise Smith (22, Lakeland) today pleaded guilty to possessing ammunition as a convicted felon. Smith faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. According to court records, on July 2, 2024, while officers with the Lakeland Police Department were surveilling a home to serve an outstanding arrest warrant for Smith, they observed Smith with a handgun, equipped with an extended magazine, tucked in his waistband. After Smith was arrested on the warrant, the officers obtained a search warrant, searched the residence, and found the handgun hidden in an air vent. The handgun was not marked with a serial number and was loaded with 25 rounds of ammunition. Additionally, officers located images of Smith in possession of the same handgun on social media that had been posted four days before its recovery. Smith has multiple prior felony convictions, including carrying a concealed firearm and possession of cannabis resin. As a convicted felon he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Lakeland Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang. 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: Website Related to Multi-Billion Dollar Bitfinex Hack Established

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: The Department of Justice has established a website to provide any person who claims status as a potential crime victim of the crimes described below to assert any rights under the Crime Victims’ Rights Act (CVRA), 18 U.S.C. § 3771, and with the opportunity to complete a statement to relay information about how they may have been harmed by the charged conduct and/or offenses. For CVRA purposes, the government’s position is that there are no “victims” of the offenses of conviction. The Department is providing this notice out of an abundance of caution. In August 2016, defendant Ilya Lichtenstein hacked into a virtual currency exchange named Bitfinex and stole approximately 120,000 bitcoin. Following the theft, Defendant Lichtenstein devised a sophisticated plan to launder the stolen funds, involving extensive layering of transactions, cryptocurrency mixers and non-compliant cryptocurrency exchanges, darknet markets, and bank accounts in the U.S., as well as overseas. Defendant Lichtenstein enlisted the assistance of his wife, co-defendant Heather Rhiannon Morgan, to clean the money. Defendant Lichtenstein and Defendant Morgan continued to conspire to launder the funds until February 2022, when federal law enforcement placed them under arrest for being involved in a money laundering conspiracy, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h), and a conspiracy to defraud the United States, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. On August 3, 2023, Defendant Lichtenstein pleaded guilty to one count of Money Laundering Conspiracy, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1956(h). Defendant Lichtenstein is scheduled to be sentenced on November 14, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., in Courtroom 28A, before Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly. On August 3, 2023, Defendant Morgan pleaded guilty to one count of Money Laundering Conspiracy, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371 and § 1956(a)(1)(B)(i), and one count of Conspiracy to Defraud the United States, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. Defendant Morgan is scheduled to be sentenced on November 15, 2024, at 2:00 p.m., in Courtroom 28A, before Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly. As authorized by the U.S. District Court (link to Oct. 10, 2024 PDF opinion here ), the United States provides this notice to the public out of an abundance of caution to solicit and receive information from all persons potentially harmed by the defendants’ conduct, including affected accountholders at Bitfinex. The United States welcomes any statements and arguments from such persons, including statements relevant to the Court’s sentencing of the defendants, such as how they have been impacted by the defendants’ conduct. If you wish to complete a statement about the impact of the offenses on you and/or to relay information about how you may have been victimized, please send that statement to the United States to be conveyed to the U.S. District Court judge who will make decisions in the case, including by sentencing the defendants. Specifically, please submit a statement by no later than November 13, 2024, via email to USADC.BitfinexHack2016@usdoj.gov. As stated above, the sentencings are currently scheduled for November 14 and 15, 2024. Additional information is available on the Department of Justice’s website for large cases, https://www.justice.gov/usao-dc/2016-bitfinex-hack . 23cr0239


title: Mississippi District Attorney, Mayor of Jackson, and Jackson City Council Member Charged with Bribery and Other Offenses

component: Criminal - Public Integrity Section

body_text: WASHINGTON — An indictment was unsealed today in the Southern District of Mississippi charging Hinds County District Attorney, Jody E. Owens II, 43; Mayor of Jackson, Mississippi, Chokwe Antar Lumumba, 41; and former President and current member of the Jackson City Council, Aaron Banks, 47, all of Jackson, with participating in a bribery scheme to enrich themselves. Owens, Lumumba, and Banks are scheduled to make their initial court appearances today before U.S. Magistrate Judge LaKeysha Greer Isaac in Jackson. “The indictment alleges that Jackson’s mayor, the district attorney in Jackson, and members of Jackson’s city council conspired to accept bribes in exchange for official acts benefiting purported real estate developers,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Officials who abuse their positions of authority to enrich themselves undermine public confidence in government. The Justice Department is committed to restoring that confidence by working with its law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute public corruption.” “Leaders who are awarded the public’s trust should be focusing on the needs of the Jackson community, not looking to line their own pockets and benefit themselves,” said U.S. Attorney Todd Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi. “As alleged in the indictment, from campaign donations generated through laundered money to stacks of cash bribes, the members of this conspiracy allegedly offered and accepted bribes in exchange for official acts. The Justice Department is committed to investigating and prosecuting bribery and other forms of public corruption.” “Our citizens are entitled to decisions based on the best interests of the public, not corrupt public officials,” said Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “No one is above the law, and the FBI is committed to ensuring that those who cross the line and violate the public’s trust are held accountable for their unlawful actions.” As alleged in the indictment, between approximately October 2023 and May 2024, Owens facilitated bribe payments to public officials in Jackson on behalf of two FBI undercover employees posing as real estate developers (the Developers) in exchange for at least $115,000 and the promise of future financial benefit. Owens instructed the Developers that, for their project to succeed, they needed to secure the support of certain public officials in Jackson through bribery. Those public officials included Mayor Lumumba, Councilman Banks, and former Jackson City Councilwoman Angelique Lee. Owens instructed the Developers how much, where, and when to bribe those officials. As part of the scheme, Mayor Lumumba accepted a bribe payment of $50,000 from the Developers in exchange for exerting his influence and taking official action relating to the Developers’ proposed project in downtown Jackson. As directed by Owens and Lumumba, the bribe payments were concealed as five $10,000 campaign-donation checks from third-party entities and individuals, including Owens. Lumumba then laundered that money through his campaign account before cashing out a portion of the payment. The indictment also alleges that, as part of the scheme, Councilman Banks solicited a $50,000 bribe in exchange for his votes in support of the Developers’ proposed project in downtown Jackson. Banks accepted an initial payment of $10,000 in cash, along with a promise to provide funding for the employment of a family member and a protective detail service. As part of the scheme, former Councilwoman Lee allegedly accepted a $10,000 debt repayment, $3,000 in cash, and a shopping trip worth approximately $6,000 in luxury goods in exchange for her votes in support of the Developers’ proposed development project in downtown Jackson. Additionally, the indictment alleges that, on May 22, an FBI agent approached Owens, identified himself as an FBI agent, and asked Owens about his involvement in the bribery scheme. During the interview, Owens made material false statements to the FBI agent. Owens is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit federal program bribery, honest services wire fraud, and money laundering, and, if convicted, faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the charge; three counts of federal program bribery, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for each charge; one count of using a facility in interstate commerce in furtherance of unlawful activity, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the charge; one count of honest services wire fraud, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the charge; one count of money laundering, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the charge; and one count of lying to federal officers, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the charge. Lumumba is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit federal program bribery, honest services wire fraud, and money laundering, and, if convicted, faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the charge; one count of federal program bribery, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for the charge; one count of using a facility in interstate commerce in furtherance of unlawful activity, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the charge; one count of honest services wire fraud, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the charge; and one count of money laundering, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the charge. Banks is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit federal program bribery, honest services wire fraud, and money laundering, and, if convicted, faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison for the charge, and one count of federal program bribery, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for the charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI is investigating the case. Trial Attorneys Nicholas W. Cannon and Madison H. Mumma of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles W. Kirkham and Kimberly T. Purdie for the Southern District of Mississippi are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. owens_et_al._indictment_filed.pdf


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office and Law Enforcement Partners Hold Financial Crimes Conference to Combat Fraud in Utah

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah in coordination with the Financial Fraud Task Force, comprised of law enforcement throughout the state, hosted the annual Financial Crimes Conference yesterday. Financial institutions also participated in the conference as part of ongoing efforts to curb financial crimes in the Beehive State. Fraud is on the rise in Utah. In the first two quarters of 2024, fraud cost Utah residents $55.2 million, compared to $36.4 million in 2023, $32.6 million in 2022, and $20.4 million in 2021 during the same two quarters, according to state data by the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Additionally, Utah ranks 10 out of 15 states nationwide for imposter scams, according to the FTC . Imposter scams include scammers posing as a government agency, romance scams, a friend or relative with an emergency need for money. “Working with our federal and state law enforcement partners and agencies, the United States Attorney’s Office has significantly increased the number of financial crime prosecutions in this state,” said U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins for the District of Utah. “By prosecuting these cases and advocating for appropriate federal prison sentences, we are sending a clear message that Utah is not the place to conduct fraud schemes and victimize our citizens.” While the U.S. Attorney’s Office collaborates with financial institutions throughout the year in conjunction with our federal partners, the conference brings all participating entities that handle financial crimes together for a day of collaborating and learning through presentations. Prosecuting financial crimes is a priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office in the District of Utah. Financial fraud ranges from phishing scams, identity theft, wire fraud, and cashier’s check fraud to name a few. For example, in January 2024, a defendant was sentenced to 72 months’ imprisonment for her involvement in an online romance scam that cost victims over $6 million. See release here . In February 2024, Salt Lake Trucking Group owners were found guilty in a financial fraud conspiracy that cost FedEx Ground $108 million. See release here . In August 2024, a Utah man was sentenced to 50 months’ imprisonment after defrauding farmers out of $1.2 million . If you or someone you know is a victim of a financial fraud, report it to the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at https://www.ic3.gov/ . You may also report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov or call the FTC’s consumer Response Center at 877-382-4357.


title: Former Arlington resident sentenced to prison for disclosing healthcare records and trying to cover up his crimes

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A former Arlington resident was sentenced today to two years in prison for obtaining another person’s healthcare information and destroying evidence in a federal investigation. A federal jury convicted Trent James Russell , 34, on July 31. According to court records and evidence presented at trial, from 2017 to 2019, Trent James Russell, 34, was employed by an organ donation coordination entity, which allowed him access to certain electronic medical records. In Jan. 2019, Russell remotely accessed the medical records of a federal official and took a screenshot of the official’s protected health information. After Russell learned his access to the health records was disabled on Feb. 10, 2019, he formatted his hard drive two days later to destroy and alter evidence and obstruct the investigation. When FBI agents interviewed Russell on Feb. 21, 2019, Russell falsely stated that his cellphone had been stolen and provided agents with his secondary hard drive, rather than his primary operating system drive, in a further effort to obstruct the investigation. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; David E. Geist, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division; and Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Michael S. Nachmanoff. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zoe Bedell and Laura D. Withers prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:23-cr-195.


title: Mooresville Man Pleads Guilty To Federal Charges For Multimillion-Dollar Investment Scheme And COVID-19 Fraud

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Steven Andiloro, 53, of Mooresville, N.C., pleaded guilty today to securities fraud and wire fraud for orchestrating a multimillion-dollar investment fraud scheme and fraudulently obtaining more than $2.6 million in COVID-19 relief funds, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Jason Byrnes, Special Agent in Charge of the United States Secret Service, Charlotte Field Office, Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in North Carolina, and Hannibal “Mike” Ware, Inspector General of the Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General (SBA-OIG), join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement. According to the plea agreement and documents filed in the case, from 2018 to 2021, Andiloro operated an investment fraud scheme and induced victims to invest money in businesses that were both real and fictitious, by making false representations about where and how the money would be invested. For example, some of Andiloro’s victims were told their money would be invested into his car service business. Other victims believed their money would be invested into a non-existent marijuana dispensary business. Contrary to representations made to victims, Andiloro did not invest the money as promised. Instead, Andiloro used the funds to pay for personal expenses and to make Ponzi-style payments to other investors. In addition to the investment scheme, Andiloro also engaged in COVID-19 fraud. Court records show that, from April 2020 to March 2021, Andiloro obtained funds from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) by submitting fraudulent applications for disaster relief loans intended for businesses that suffered economic hardship due to the pandemic. To obtain the PPP funds, Andiloro submitted applications that contained false financial information about his businesses, including fake employment data and inflated revenues, costs, and payroll expenses. Andiloro received more than $2.6 million in disaster relief funds, which he used to fund his personal lifestyle and to make payments in furtherance of the investment fraud scheme. Andiloro was released on bond. The securities fraud and the wire fraud offense each carry a maximum prison sentence of 20 years. A sentencing date has not been set. In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI, and the SBA-OIG for the investigation which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Graham Billings and Katherine Armstrong with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte are prosecuting the case. On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866‑720‑5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .


title: U.S. Attorney Announces Murder-For-Hire And Related Charges Against IRGC Asset And Two Local Operatives

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Merrick B. Garland, the Attorney General of the United States, Christopher A. Wray, the Director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), James E. Dennehy, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI New York Field Office, and David Sundberg, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office, announced today the filing of murder-for-hire and related charges against FARHAD SHAKERI, CARLISLE RIVERA, a/k/a “Pop,” and JONATHAN LOADHOLT in connection with their involvement in a plot to murder a U.S. citizen of Iranian origin in New York. RIVERA was arrested in Brooklyn, New York yesterday. SHAKERI remains at large and is believed to reside in Iran. RIVERA and LOADHOLT were presented before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jennifer Willis in the Southern District of New York yesterday and ordered detained pending trial. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Actors directed by the Government of Iran continue to target our citizens, including President-elect Trump, on U.S. soil and abroad. This has to stop. Today’s charges are another message to those who continue in their efforts – we will remain unrelenting in our pursuit of bad actors, no matter where they reside, and will stop at nothing to bring to justice those who harm our safety and security. I want to thank the career prosecutors of this Office and our law enforcement partners for their ongoing work in this and related investigations. They are truly the best of the best and work tirelessly to keep our country safe.” Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said: “There are few actors in the world that pose as grave a threat to the national security of the United States as does Iran. The Justice Department has charged an asset of the Iranian regime who was tasked by the regime to direct a network of criminal associates to further Iran’s assassination plots against its targets, including President-elect Donald J. Trump. We have also charged and arrested two individuals who we allege were recruited as part of that network to silence and kill, on U.S. soil, an American journalist who has been a prominent critic of the regime. We will not stand for the Iranian regime’s attempts to endanger the American people and America’s national security.” FBI Director Christopher A. Wray said: “The charges announced today expose Iran’s continued brazen attempts to target U.S. citizens, including President-elect Donald J. Trump, other government leaders, and dissidents who criticize the regime in Tehran. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps – a designated foreign terrorist organization – has been conspiring with criminals and hitmen to target and gun down Americans on U.S. soil and that simply won’t be tolerated. Thanks to the hard work of the FBI, their deadly schemes were disrupted. We’re committed to using the full resources of the FBI to protect our citizens from Iran or any other adversary who targets Americans.” FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy said: “These individuals allegedly plotted to murder an American citizen – on our soil – at the direction of a foreign terrorist organization, the IRGC. This case is an example of yet another flagrant attempt by the Government of Iran, not merely to silence those who speak out against them, but to take the lives of American citizens exercising their constitutionally protected rights here in this country. As we remain unwavering in our mission to protect the American people, the FBI will continue to aggressively pursue justice against anyone attempting to use violence to violate our freedoms and way of life.” FBI Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg said: “The charges announced today further demonstrate the IRGC's continued campaign to silence and kill Americans who criticize the Iranian regime. Through collaboration with FBI New York's Joint Terrorism Task Force and federal prosecutors at the Justice Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we have successfully disrupted the defendants’ alleged plots to fulfill Iran’s goals of permanently eliminating voices of opposition. We vow to continue to work with our partners to stop IRGC operatives and associates who seek to harm our citizens on our soil.” According to the allegations contained in the Complaint charging the defendants and other public statements and filings: [1] The Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran (the “Government of Iran”) is actively targeting nationals of the United States and its allies living in countries around the world for attacks, including assault, kidnapping, and murder, both to repress and silence dissidents critical of the Iranian regime and to take vengeance for the January 2020 death of then-Commander of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (“IRGC”) Qods Force (“IRGC-QF”), Qasem Soleimani, who was killed by a U.S. drone strike in Baghdad. The IRGC is an Iranian military and counterintelligence agency under the authority of Iran’s Supreme Leader, comprised of components including an external operations force, the IRGC-QF, and has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization by the U.S. Secretary of State since April 15, 2019. The IRGC has publicly stated its desire to avenge the death of Soleimani, and, among its activities, the IRGC plots and conducts attack operations outside Iran targeting U.S. citizens residing in the United States and abroad. SHAKERI is an IRGC asset residing in Tehran, Iran. SHAKERI immigrated to the United States as a child and was deported in or about 2008 after serving 14 years in prison for a robbery conviction. In recent months, SHAKERI has used a network of criminal associates he met in prison in the United States to supply the IRGC with operatives to conduct surveillance and assassinations of IRGC targets. Two members of SHAKERI’s network are his co-defendants, LOADHOLT and RIVERA. At SHAKERI’s instruction, LOADHOLT and RIVERA have spent months surveilling a U.S. citizen of Iranian origin residing in the United States (“Victim-1”). Victim-1 is an outspoken critic of the Iranian regime and has been the target of multiple prior plots for kidnapping and/or murder directed by the Government of Iran. In exchange for SHAKERI’s promise of $100,000, RIVERA and LOADHOLT repeatedly sought to locate Victim-1 for murder. During their efforts to locate and kill Victim-1, SHAKERI, LOADHOLT, and RIVERA shared messages about their progress and photographs relating to their scheme. For example, in or about February 2024, RIVERA and LOADHOLT messaged about an incoming payment from SHAKERI, and then traveled to Fairfield University, where Victim-1 was scheduled to appear, and took photographs on campus. In or about April 2024, SHAKERI sent RIVERA a series of voice notes discussing their efforts to locate and kill Victim-1. In one voice note, SHAKERI told RIVERA that Victim-1 spent most of her time in particular locations of her home, and told RIVERA that “you just gotta have patience . . . You gotta wait and have patience to catch her either going in the house or coming out, or following her out somewhere and taking care of it. Don’t think about going in. In is a suicide move.” On several occasions over the last several months, consistent with this instruction from SHAKERI, RIVERA and/or LOADHOLT have surveilled a location in Brooklyn that they had identified as associated with Victim-1. In addition, according to statements made by Shakeri in recorded interviews with law enforcement agents, the IRGC has also tasked Shakeri with carrying out other assassinations against U.S. and Israeli citizens located in the United States. In particular, Shakeri has informed law enforcement that he was tasked on October 7, 2024, with providing a plan to kill President-elect Donald J. Trump. During the interview, Shakeri claimed he did not intend to propose a plan to kill Trump within the timeframe set by the IRGC. He also stated he was tasked with surveilling two Jewish American citizens residing in New York City and offered $500,000 by an IRGC official for the murder of either victim. He was also tasked with targeting Israeli tourists in Sri Lanka. * * * SHAKERI, 51, of Iran, RIVERA, 49, of Brooklyn, New York, and LOADHOLT, 36, of Staten Island, New York, have all been charged with murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; conspiracy to commit murder-for-hire, which carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison; and money laundering conspiracy, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. SHAKERI has also been charged with conspiring to provide material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison; providing material support to a foreign terrorist organization, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison; and conspiracy to violate the International Emergency Economic Powers Act and sanctions against the Government of Iran, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be imposed by a judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI’s New York Joint Terrorism Task Force, which principally consists of agents and analysts from the FBI and detectives from the New York City Police Department, and the FBI Washington Field Office. Mr. Williams also thanked the Department of Justice’s National Security Division, U.S. Customs and Border Protection New York Field Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration New York Division, and the New York State Police. This case is being handled by the Office’s National Security and International Narcotics Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacob Gutwillig and Michael Lockard, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Isaacson are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from National Security Division Trial Attorneys Dmitry Slavin of the Counterterrorism Section, and Christopher Rigali and Leslie Esbrook of the Counterintelligence and Export Control Section. The charges in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, 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: U.S. Attorney’s Office Concludes Investigation Into  Fatal Police Shooting of Dalaneo Martin

body_text: WASHINGTON – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia announced today that there is insufficient evidence to pursue federal criminal civil rights or District of Columbia charges against a United States Park Police Officer for his role in a March 18, 2023, fatal shooting of Dalaneo Martin, 17. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Metropolitan Police Department’s (MPD) Internal Affair’s Division conducted a comprehensive review of the incident. This included a review of physical evidence, surveillance video footage, body-worn camera footage, audio and visual recordings from an ambulance, witness accounts, autopsy records, and MPD reports. On March 18, 2023, Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) Officers received a radio run for a suspicious vehicle parked in the 3400 block of Baker Street, Northeast, a residential block. MPD and United States Park Police Officers responded to the scene and observed a sleeping individual, later identified as Dalaneo Martin, sitting in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. It was determined that the vehicle had affixed to it a license plate belonging to another car, and that its ignition had been punched. The Officers devised a plan to remove the Mr. Martin from the vehicle. In the course of executing that plan, Mr. Martin woke up, a struggle ensued, and Mr. Martin put the car in drive and accelerated down the street with a United States Park Police Officer in the backseat of the car. While still in the rear passenger seat of the vehicle, the Officer stated to Mr. Martin, “Stop,” as the vehicle drove eastbound on Baker Street, towards Kenilworth Avenue. As Mr. Martin continued to drive, making a left turn onto the 200 block of Kenilworth Avenue, the Officer again stated, “Stop man, just let me out! Let me out! Stop or I’ll shoot.” After this warning, as the vehicle continued to travel northbound on Kenilworth Avenue, towards 36 th Street, the Park Police Officer extended his service pistol forward and held the service pistol with a two handed grip and discharged five rounds from his service pistol at Mr. Martin, striking him. After Mr. Martin was struck by the Park Police Officer’s discharged rounds, the vehicle continued to travel northbound on 36th Street, then left the road, crossed over the sidewalk, went up an embankment and then crashed into a house on the south side of 36 th Street, Northeast. Mr. Martin was pronounced dead on the scene. After a careful, thorough, and independent review of the evidence, federal prosecutors have found insufficient evidence to prove beyond a reasonable doubt that the United State Park Police Officer is criminally liable for Mr. Martin’s death. The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to investigating allegations of excessive force by law enforcement officers and will continue to devote the resources necessary to ensure that all allegations of serious civil rights violations are investigated fully and completely. MPD’s Internal Affairs Division investigates all police-involved fatalities in the District of Columbia.


title: Overdose Death Gets Armed Snapchat Fentanyl Trafficker Nearly 13 Years in Federal Prison

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: NEW BERN, N.C. – A Wayne County man was sentenced today to 155 months in prison and five years of supervised release for armed trafficking of counterfeit pills laced with fentanyl after one victim died of an overdose in July 2022. The judge also ordered that the defendant’s supervised release include at least 50 hours of community service focused on educating youth about the dangers of fentanyl. On April 11, 2024, Dylan Alexander Jones, age 24, pled guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. “We are bringing swift justice against anyone trafficking counterfeit pills laced with deadly fentanyl, especially when their poison claims one of our neighbor’s lives,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr. “North Carolina’s Sheriffs are prioritizing overdose death investigations like never before and have a direct line to my office to prosecute them. Our team has trained law enforcement across the district on building airtight cases to secure firm sentences in federal court. Our Sheriffs are going the distance to get justice for victims and keep North Carolina safe.” “The sentencing of Dylan Jones is a pivotal step in our ongoing fight against the devastating impact of drug overdose deaths. We stand firm in our commitment to justice for the victims and their families. I want to commend our exceptional team for their relentless dedication and professionalism in building this challenging case. Together, we are making strides toward a safer community,” said Duplin County Sheriff Stratton Stokes. According to court documents and other information presented in court, on July 22, 2022, deputies with the Duplin County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) responded to a 911 call regarding an unresponsive male at a residence in Teachey. Prior to the arrival of the deputy, a Teachey firefighter on scene confirmed that the victim was deceased. A post-mortem toxicology report confirmed the presence of fentanyl in the victim’s system and the cause of death was determined to be fentanyl toxicity. Law enforcement recovered the victim’s cell phone and an analysis of the data showed that the victim had received pills from an individual using a Snapchat account associated with Jones. GPS data from the victim’s phone and Jones’ phone show that they met at a rest area in Warsaw just hours before his death. In addition, law enforcement made three controlled purchases from Jones between September 2022 and November 2022. All of the pills purchased from Jones contained fentanyl. At the third and final buy, law enforcement arrested Jones. Jones was armed with a handgun at the time of his arrest, and a search of his vehicle resulted in the seizure of a 9mm pistol loaded with 16 rounds of ammunition, fentanyl and over $1,600 in cash. Michael F. Easley, Jr. U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The DCSO, the Carolina Beach Police department and the Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyler Lemons prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:23-CR-00114-FL. ###


title: Defendant Charged After Fleeing Before Trial

component: USAO - Georgia, Northern

body_text: ATLANTA - Roscoe McMillan, also known as “Roscoe McMillian” and “Ross McMillan,” has been indicted after he failed to appear for trial on wire and mail fraud charges related to a fraudulent life insurance scheme. “Every defendant has a right to a fair trial by a jury of his or her peers, but no one is entitled to refuse to appear for trial,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “McMillan promised to appear for his court dates after the district court released him on bond. His alleged failure to appear indicates a disregard for the rule of law and cannot be tolerated.” “McMillan has taken a criminal allegation and created an even more serious situation,” said FBI Atlanta Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke. “Our special agents will not rest until McMillan is in custody and appearing in court like he promised to do last month.” According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the indictment, and other information presented in court: In September 2023, Roscoe McMillan was charged with wire fraud and mail fraud related to a scheme to defraud seven life insurance companies. Under the guise of a sham company called Chosen Outreach Ministries, McMillan allegedly provided false and fraudulent information to obtain group life insurance policies. These group life insurance policies were predicated on Chosen Outreach Ministries being the employer of the insured individuals, but the indictment alleges that none of these individuals were actual employees. The indictment further alleges that Chosen Outreach Ministries never conducted any legitimate business or paid wages to these individuals. In fact, many of the insured individuals were suffering from serious health problems and died within a year of being added to Chosen Outreach Ministries’ group policies. McMillan allegedly submitted more than 30 fraudulent claims for life insurance benefits after the insured individuals passed away. The defrauded insurance companies disbursed approximately $2.7 million in benefits based on the fraudulent claims. On October 29, 2024, McMillan failed to appear for his trial on these fraud charges. He was granted pretrial release from custody on October 11, 2023, and is now a fugitive. Roscoe McMillan, 43, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was charged with wire fraud, mail fraud, and failure to appear in a superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury on November 4, 2024. Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Russell Phillips and Kelly K. Connors are prosecuting the case. If you know Roscoe McMillan’s whereabouts or have information that may lead to his arrest, please contact the Federal Bureau of Investigation at (770) 216-3000 or submit information at https://tips.fbi.gov/home . For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Fort Wayne Man Sentenced to 96 Months in Prison

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

body_text: FORT WAYNE –Jasper L. Williams, 36 years old, of Fort Wayne, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Chief Judge Holly A. Brady after pleading guilty to being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. Williams was sentenced to 96 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. According to documents in the case, during a February 2023 traffic stop, officers recovered a semi-automatic pistol along with an AK-style pistol from Williams’ vehicle. Both firearms were loaded. Williams had previously been convicted of felony offenses for Aiding Robbery, Possessing with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, and Possessing a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime, any one of which prohibited him from possessing the firearms in this case. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Fort Wayne Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stacey R, Speith. 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: North Carolina Man Admits to Firearms Offense

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Christopher S. Damson, 27, of Kernersville, North Carolina has admitted to the unlawful possession of ammunition. According to court documents, Damson was arrested while attempting to pawn boxes of ammunition. Damson is prohibited from having firearms because of a domestic violence protective order issued in Lee County, Florida. Damson faces up to 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant U.S. Attorney William Rhee is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. Investigative agencies include the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Monongalia County Sheriff’s Office. 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 gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN . U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.


title: Forty-Eight Defendants Charged in Imperial Valley Takedown of Drug Trafficking Network Linked to Sinaloa Cartel

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: EL CENTRO – Five indictments were unsealed in federal court today charging 48 alleged members of an Imperial Valley-based, Sinaloa Cartel-linked drug trafficking organization accused of distributing methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin and bulk cash smuggling. In a coordinated takedown this morning, more than 140 federal, state, and local law enforcement officials arrested 25 defendants and executed 15 search warrants in Imperial County, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Stockton, as well as in Yuma, Arizona and Las Vegas, Nevada. As of this afternoon, the search continues for 23 fugitives. Including seizures today and throughout this long-term investigation, authorities have seized more than 3,600 kg (about 8,000 pounds) of methamphetamine; substantial quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin; and one firearm. Crimes charged in the indictments include drug trafficking, conspiracy, and bulk cash smuggling. According to court records, the defendants belonged to a drug trafficking organization based in the Imperial Valley and Mexicali, Mexico with ties to Los Rusos, one of the most violent and significant factions of the Sinaloa Cartel. “This investigation represents another blow to traffickers of deadly drugs like fentanyl and methamphetamine,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “With the indictment of four dozen individuals, we are not only disrupting a major drug trafficking network but also taking significant steps to protect our community from the devastation these drugs cause. We are committed to dismantling these dangerous operations and ensuring that those who fuel the crisis are held accountable.” “HSI’s challenge with investigating cases tied to the Sinaloa Cartel is to not just chase those who profit from addiction, but to dismantle the transnational network responsible for plaguing our communities and tearing families apart,” said Shawn Gibson, special agent in charge for HSI San Diego. “The success of today’s takedown would not have been possible without the unwavering support and assistance from our law enforcement partners. By working together, we each bring a unique skillset to the fight against these trafficking organizations and can disrupt and dismantle cells like these.” “This successful operation underscores the pivotal role that collaboration among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies plays in safeguarding our communities,” stated Roque Caza, Area Port Director for the Calexico Port of Entry. “At U.S. Customs and Border Protection, our mission is to protect the nation’s public by preventing dangerous substances from entering the United States. This joint effort highlights our commitment to disrupting the flow of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and heroin, addressing the dangerous impacts on public health and safety. Together, we stand strong in our fight against these illicit activities and remain steadfast in protecting our borders and communities.” “The Sinaloa Cartel and any other criminal organization will fare poorly here in the Imperial Valley as we have just seen,” said El Centro Sector Border Patrol Chief Gregory Bovino. “With seamless coordination between HSI, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and a multitude of state and local agencies, yet another set of alleged traffickers and criminals were prevented from harming the community.” According to court records, employing undercover operations and four rounds of wiretaps, agents conducted numerous controlled purchases, traffic stops of personal vehicles and several tractor trailers, and searches of houses and stash locations leading to large seizures of narcotics. In one instance on April 27, 2022, authorities seized 256 pounds of methamphetamine after intercepting phone conversations between several defendants about a big sale. Federal agents watched the transaction from afar, then conducted a traffic stop on the drug-laden tractor-trailer. Law enforcement officials located four duffel bags containing 256 pounds of methamphetamine in the cab of the truck. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Van Demark and Owen Roth. DEFENDANT Case Number 24cr2316-WQH Adrian Garcia Age: 28 El Centro, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Distribution of Controlled Substances – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a) and (b)(1) Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a $10 million fine. DEFENDANTS Case Number 24cr2320-WQH Fausto Herrera-Lopez, AKA “Vecino”* 50 Mexicali, MX Rodolfo Ramirez-Palacios, AKA “Rudy”* 34 Mexicali, MX Tereso Ramirez-Velasquez 54 San Bernadino, CA Juan Carlos Ojeda-Saldana 35 Brawley, CA Jose David Morales-Rodriguez* 46 Brawley, CA Ernesto Morales-Rodriguez* 41 Mexicali, MX Vicente Barrera-Robles* 32 Mexicali, MX Ricardo Ruben Pinzon 24 El Centro, CA Jose Ramon Ochoa-Monteverde 31 El Centro, CA Salvador Martinez 54 Los Angeles, CA Juan Carlos Martinez* 52 Los Angeles, CA Rogelio Robledo-Valdez* 26 Mexicali, MX Maria Elena Reyes 50 Wichita, KS Gabriela Estrada* 46 Mexicali, MX Jaime Mayoral 40 El Centro, CA Marcos Arturo Barrera 28 Brawley, CA Oscar Silvas-Gamez 32 Fresno, CA Juan Ernesto Salas Villela* 37 Fontana, CA Yeiming Hernandez 34 Calexico, CA Frank Gustavo Zendejas 56 Calipatria, CA Gerardo Medina Plancencia 45 Calexico, CA Jose Andres Leyva 55 El Centro, CA Stephanie Melgoza* 21 Salinas, CA Victor Rene Herrera* 24 Los Angeles, CA Arnulfo Morfin-Moreno* 52 Pasco, WA Edgar Garcia* 24 Las Vegas, NV Roberto Valenzuela De La Torre* 27 Sonora, MX Leonardo Saldivar* 38 San Bernardino, CA Francisco Ramirez* 52 Tolleson, Arizona Luis Fernando Simental Palacios* 34 Mexicali, MX Abraham Noe Esparza-Garcia* 36 Mexicali, MX Angelica Guerrero 29 Calexico, CA Sergio Sanchez 46 Long Beach, CA Nicholas Adam Fortier 41 Portland, OR Luis Alberto Felix* 38 Pacoima, CA Elizabeth Echeverria 43 Las Vega, NV Pedro Estrada* 50 San Diego, CA Bernadette Lucero Vallejos* 33 Goodyear, AZ Maribel Garcia Barajas 56 El Centro, CA Jose Arturo Mendiola Porras* 57 Mexicali, MX Enrique Villalobos 43 Stockton, CA Israel Alejandro Ramirez-Velasquez 60 Perris, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances - Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a)(1), (b)(1), and 846 Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a $10 million fine Distribution of Controlled Substances – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a) and (b)(1) Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a $10 million fine Possession of Controlled Substances with Intent to Distribute – Title 21, U.S.C., Sections 841(a) and (b)(1) Maximum penalty: Life in prison with a mandatory minimum of 10 years and a $10 million fine Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 31, U.S.C., Section 5332(a) and (b) Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine Conspiracy to Commit Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371 Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine DEFENDANT Case Number 24cr2318-WQH Nilda Charlenne Ledon Age: 34 El Centro, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 31, U.S.C., Section 5332(a) and (b) Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine DEFENDANT Case Number 24cr2319-WQH Jasmine Santos Age: 34 Los Angeles, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 31, U.S.C., Section 5332(a) and (b) Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine DEFENDANT Case Number 24cr217-WQH Brenda Lara* Age: 32 Los Angeles, CA Romulada Contreras* Age: 75 Mexicali, MX SUMMARY OF CHARGES Conspiracy to Commit Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371 Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine Bulk Cash Smuggling – Title 31, U.S.C., Section 5332(a) and (b) Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and a $250,000 fine *Fugitives INVESTIGATING AGENCIES Homeland Security Investigations, Calexico Office United States Border Patrol, El Centro Sector Intelligence Unit Customs and Border Protection, Calexico Intelligence Division Imperial County Narcotics Task Force Drug Enforcement Administration, Imperial County Office United States Postal Inspectors Federal Bureau of Investigations, Imperial County Office United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations United States Marshals Service Calexico Police Department Imperial County Sheriff’s Office Brawley Police Department San Bernardino Police Department Narcotics Unit California Highway Patrol El Centro Police Department The charges and allegations contained in an indictment or complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty. This case is the result of ongoing efforts by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), a partnership that brings together the combined expertise and unique abilities of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, dismantle and prosecute high-level members of drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations and enterprises. This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.


title: Butte meth trafficker sentenced to 10 years in prison

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: MISSOULA — A Butte woman who admitted distributing methamphetamine after being arrested multiple times and found to be in possession of the drug, large amounts of cash and firearms was sentenced today to 10 years and one month in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. The defendant, Jeri Angeline Phillips, 36, pleaded guilty in July to possession with intent to distribute meth. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. “Phillips is responsible for flooding Butte with a staggering amount of meth and routinely possessed firearms while trafficking drugs. As part of our case, she is forfeiting her cash, drugs, and guns. It’s appropriate and necessary that her freedom was forfeited, too,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said. The government alleged that between October 2021 and March 2023, officers working with the Drug Enforcement Administration stopped Phillips on three separate occasions and seized a total of approximately $58,000 in cash and distribution quantities of meth. In addition, law enforcement seized a total of five firearms from Phillips’ vehicle and her residence. On one of the occasions, law enforcement observed Phillips distribute meth to a customer in Rocker. When law enforcement stopped Phillips’ vehicle, they located about 85 grams of meth, approximately $37,000 cash and a handgun in her purse and a digital scale in the trunk. A witness reported Phillips intended to use the cash to purchase approximately 17 pounds of meth in Washington. Law enforcement monitoring Phillips learned that during this period, Phillips had made multiple trips out of state to resupply her drug distribution cache. The government attributed approximately 11.8 kilograms, or nearly 25 pounds and about 94,079 doses, of meth to Phillips. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The DEA, Montana Highway Patrol and Montana Division of Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Havre woman sentenced to prison for lunging at airplane flight controls during landing at Havre airport

body_text: GREAT FALLS — A federal judge on Nov. 6 sentenced a Havre woman to 19 months and 24 days in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for lunging at the controls of a small commercial airplane as the plane was landing, causing it to accelerate and turn on the runway, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today. The defendant, Tracy Lynn Eagleman, aka Tracy Badmoccasin, 36, pleaded guilty in August to interfering with an aircraft in flight. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. In court documents, the government alleged that on March 21, 2023, Eagleman was a passenger on Cape Air flight 1793, a small passenger plane that departed from Billings and was bound for Havre. On the final approach into Havre, Eagleman stood up and started yelling about the landing. The flight crew – a captain and first officer – were able to calm Eagleman down and get her back into her seat. However, just as the plane touched down, Eagleman lunged forward from her seat and hit the flight controls. Eagleman hit the throttle for one of the two engines, causing it to accelerate and prompting the plane to “yaw” or turn on the runway. At the time, the plane was traveling at approximately 80 mph. The flight crew regained control of the plane without further incident, stopped on the tarmac and taxied safely to the airport terminal. One of the passengers recorded the incident on a cellphone. While the recording failed to capture the moment, Eagleman lunged at the control deck, other passengers are heard yelling in fear that they could have been killed. In later interviews, the flight crew indicated that yawing at the speed the plane was traveling could have caused it to roll and crash. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Hill County Sheriff’s Office conducted the investigation. XXX


title: China-Based Chemical Company, Its Director and Senior Employees Indicted for Alleged Fentanyl Manufacturing and Distribution

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A chemical company, its director and three senior employees have been charged in a 13-count federal grand jury indictment alleging they sold deadly fentanyl precursor chemicals and xylazine – known as “tranq” – globally, fueling the fentanyl crisis in the United States, the Justice Department announced today. Hubei Aoks Bio-Tech Co. Ltd., a chemical company based in Wuhan, China, is charged with one count of conspiracy to manufacture and distribute fentanyl and to distribute listed chemicals for the manufacture of fentanyl, one count of conspiracy to distribute listed chemicals for importation to the United States, two counts of distribution of listed chemicals for importation, two counts of distribution of listed chemicals for manufacture into controlled substances, and seven counts of introduction of misbranded drugs into interstate commerce. Also charged in the indictment returned on May 10 and announced today are: Xuening Gao, 38, Hubei Aoks’ sole director, who is charged with two conspiracy counts; Guangzhao Gao, 36, the operator of Hubei Aoks’ cryptocurrency wallets used for fentanyl precursor sales and who is charged with a total of six felonies, including four distribution-related counts; Yajing Li, 30, a Hubei Aoks sales manager who also is charged with six felonies, including conspiracy and distribution of a listed chemical; and A fifth defendant who uses the alias “Jessie Lee,” a Hubei Aoks sales manager charged with two conspiracy counts. The People’s Republic of China’s Ministry of Public Security recently informed the Justice Department that it took law enforcement action against the defendants in its own parallel investigation by dissolving the indicted Chinese company and arresting the four indicted Chinese national subjects. The Justice Department thanks the Ministry of Public Security for its assistance and coordinated efforts. The Justice Department also recognizes the work done by the Ministry of Public Security in taking action to schedule two of the several chemicals that the indictment charges the defendants with distributing: the adulterant xylazine and the precursor 3,4-MDP-2-P Ethyl Glycidate. These two chemicals were not scheduled in the People’s Republic of China at the time of this investigation, but have now been scheduled. “This indictment alleges a corporation, its director and sales manager reaped financial benefits by knowingly exporting materials that helped fuel the fentanyl crisis in our nation,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Synthetic drugs such as fentanyl have wreaked devastation in our country, and it is therefore critical that we hold accountable those behind this crisis. Rest assured, we will have no patience for those who profit off this poison and treat our youth as collateral damage.” “This company, its owner and criminal operatives have knowingly been involved in a deadly game, manufacturing parts that led to a destructive whole,” said Matthew Allen, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration's (DEA) Los Angeles Field Division. “DEA will continue to focus on identifying the most prolific manufacturers and distributor organizations of the fentanyl precursor chemicals and these indictments are proof of our unwavering determination to bring these criminals to justice. Our investigators and all our partners’ capabilities and skillful collaboration have made a difference. I couldn’t be prouder.” “Today’s announcement demonstrates the government’s continued scrutiny of companies and individuals that subvert federal law by importing and distributing drugs and drug ingredients for illicit purposes,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Iwanicki, Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations Los Angeles Office. “FDA remains committed to pursuing and bringing to justice those who jeopardize the public health and profit off the sale of unlawful and potentially dangerous products.” “Companies such as Hubei Aoks disguise their illicit activities as legitimate business operations yet continue to knowingly contribute to the fentanyl crisis in the United States,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher, IRS Criminal Investigation, Los Angeles Field Office. “This indictment highlights our commitment to partnering with other law enforcement agencies to combat this epidemic. IRS Criminal Investigation is the best in the world at following the money, whether it be within traditional banking systems or via cryptocurrency platforms, and we will tirelessly pursue the necessary evidence to bring suspects to justice.” According to the indictment, for more than a decade, Xuening Gao and Guangzhou Gao have sold controlled substances and precursor chemicals, including fentanyl precursors, to customers throughout the United States. Both men are linked to chemical companies operating in China, including one that sold fentanyl and acetyl-fentanyl that was imported into the United States as far back as 2015. Hubei Aoks exported chemicals to at least 100 countries, including the United States, and advertised online and through various social media platforms. Hubei Aoks sales representatives tailored their precursor recommendations depending on the customer’s geographical market and would suggest alternative chemicals if one was not available. Hubei Aoks claimed that fentanyl precursors were most popular in Mexico and sold them in 25-kilogram fiber drums, each of which can produce 10 million fentanyl pills. Representatives claimed that their profit on precursors sales to Mexico was worth the risk. From at least November 2016 to November 2023, Hubei Aoks sold and imported to the United States 11 kilograms of fentanyl precursors, capable of producing millions of fentanyl pills, along with two kilograms of xylazine, a tranquilizer, used by veterinarians to sedate cattle, horses, and other large animals. The chemicals were falsely imported into the United States as furniture parts, vases, makeup, and other items, and were delivered to a person the conspirators believed was a fentanyl trafficking customer, but who actually was an undercover agent. Sometimes, Hubei Aoks sales representatives attempted to entice the undercover agent by offering additional chemicals that they claimed would sell well, offering gifts, and guaranteeing that their chemicals would be successfully imported into the United States. “HSI is dedicated to disrupting the flow of fentanyl, and the precursor chemicals necessary to produce this poison, entering our communities," said Homeland Security Investigations Los Angeles Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. “Today’s announcement of charges is a warning to those who seek to profit from the sales of these precursor chemicals used to manufacture fentanyl and other manufactured narcotics.” “This enforcement action reflects U.S. Customs and Border Protection’s (CBP) whole-of-government effort to anticipate, identify, mitigate, and disrupt illicit synthetic drug producers, suppliers, and traffickers," said Cheryl M. Davies, CBP Director of Field Operations in Los Angeles. “This comprehensive approach brings the unique, formidable, and wide-ranging capabilities and authorities of CBP to bear on the illicit synthetic drug trade and build capacity and collaboration with our partners – domestic and international – to ensure the safety of the American public.” “The shipment of dangerous substances like fentanyl precursor chemicals through the U.S. Mail helps to fuel a pandemic that affects many Americans today”, said Inspector in Charge of the United States Postal Inspection Service in Los Angeles, Matt Shields. “Precursor chemicals are extremely dangerous substances and pose a serious threat to the health and well-being of our society. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service stands proudly with our federal law enforcement partners as we continue to fight to protect the U.S. Postal Service and Americans from illegal and dangerous substances.” An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. If convicted of all charges, each defendant would face a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations; IRS Criminal Investigation; Homeland Security Investigations, United States Customs and Border Protection; and the United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating this matter, with assistance from the California Department of Justice. This investigation was led by the Southern California Drug Task Force (SCDTF), a DEA-led multi-agency task force within the Los Angeles High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Program. Assistant United States Attorneys Brittney M. Harris of the International Narcotics, Money Laundering, and Racketeering Section and Jenna G. Williams of the Corporate and Securities Fraud Strike Force are prosecuting this case. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Nigerian National Sentenced To Ten Years For $20 Million Cyber Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Alabama, Southern

body_text: MOBILE, AL – A Nigerian national was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for his role in a massive cyber fraud conspiracy that victimized over 400 people across the United States resulting in a collective loss of nearly $20 million. According to court documents and testimony, 33-year-old Babatunde Francis Ayeni, a citizen of Nigeria living in the United Kingdom at the time of his arrest, was involved in a sophisticated business e-mail compromise scheme targeting real estate transactions in the United States. Ayeni pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud in April of 2024. The conspiracy was carried out by individuals operating out of Nigeria and the United Arab Emirates To carry out this scheme, conspirators sent phishing e-mails containing attachments and links embedded with malicious code to title companies, real estate agents, and real estate attorneys across the United States. If an employee at a targeted real estate business clicked on the malicious link or attachment, they were prompted to enter their e-mail account login information. The employee’s login credentials were captured and sent to e-mail accounts controlled by Ayeni and other co-conspirators. The conspirators then logged into the employee’s e-mail and monitored the account for transactions where a buyer was scheduled to make a payment as part of a real estate transaction. Ayeni and other conspirators then sent e-mails to the purchaser from the compromised e-mail account. These e-mails contained wiring instructions. When the purchaser wired the funds as instructed in the e-mail, the money was deposited into bank accounts associated with the criminals instead of the legitimate real estate transaction. Ayeni fraudulently obtained the e-mail credentials of a real estate title company in Gulf Shores, Alabama, allowing him and co-conspirators to defraud victims in the Southern District of Alabama, and elsewhere. Over 400 people across the United States were victims of the conspiracy. Of these, 231 victims were unable to reverse the wire transactions in time and lost their entire transaction. The collective loss of these 231 victims was $19,599,969.46. During the multi-day sentencing hearing, United States District Judge Terry Moorer heard the impact of this crime from nearly twenty victims. In addition to those who spoke in court, numerous victims provided victim impact statements about how the crime affected them, noting that in addition to losing all of the money they saved for the purchase of a new home, they felt significant shame, despair, and depression due to being victimized the way they were. United States Attorney Sean P. Costello said, “Cyber-enabled crimes can cause substantial and lasting harm to victims in an instant. Criminals across the world may believe that they are causing no harm to their victims and that they are safe behind their keyboards, but this case proves otherwise. With our law enforcement partners, we will continue to aggressively investigate, pursue, and hold accountable the crooks who perpetrate frauds online, wherever they are.” Paul Brown, Special Agent in Charge of the Mobile Division of the FBI, said, “This type of behavior will not be tolerated in Alabama. After listening to our citizens speak about how the loss of funds impacted their lives, and the subsequent loss of what they thought was down payments for their future homes, I am pleased to see Ayeni receive a substantial sentence for these crimes. FBI Mobile will continue to educate the public about the potential dangers of online activity. If you believe you have been the victim of online fraud, please visit IC3.gov to file an official report.” Co-defendants Feyisayo Ogunsanwo and Yusuf Lasisi remain at-large and are believed to be outside the United States. The United States continues to actively seek their arrest and extradition to face justice in this case. To learn more about business email compromise scams, please visit www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-scams-and-crimes/business-email-compromise and www.ic3.gov/ Media/Y2023/PSA230609. Anyone who has been the victim of an internet-based crime should contact the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) at www.ic3.gov. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from law enforcement partners in the United Kingdom and elsewhere. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Bodnar prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. Substantial assistance was also provided by Amanda Chadwick and Rachel Yasser with the Department of Justice Office of International Affairs.


title: Member Of Violent 764 Terror Network Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison For Sexually Exploiting a Child

body_text: Richard Anthony Reyna Densmore, 47, of Kaleva, Michigan, was sentenced to 30 years in prison for sexually exploiting a child. Densmore pleaded guilty to sexual exploitation of a child, part of a broader indictment that charged him with other child exploitation offenses. “Richard Densmore will spend the next 30 years in federal prison for sexually exploiting a child and for his role in creating 764’s online networks that coerced children into recording themselves engaging in self-harm, sexually explicit acts, and violence” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “No child should have to experience this heinous abuse. The Justice Department will ensure that criminals engaged in this depraved conduct are held accountable in a court of law.” “This defendant orchestrated a community to target children through online gaming sites and used extortion and blackmail to force his minor victims to record themselves committing acts of self-harm and violence,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “If you prey on children online, you can’t hide behind a keyboard. The FBI will use all our resources and authorities to arrest you and hold you accountable.” “This case represents a new and depraved threat against our kids and our communities: violent online extremists who manipulate their minor victims to commit self-harm and create sexually explicit images,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten for the Western District of Michigan. “While we will always fight to hold criminals like Richard Densmore accountable, we want to prevent this crime as much as possible. Parents: please talk with your children about this threat; monitor their social media use; and let them know they can always come to you if they mess up.” Densmore is a member of 764, a network of violent extremists who seek to normalize the production, sharing, and possession of child pornography and gore material to desensitize and corrupt youth toward future acts of violence. Members of 764 gain notoriety by systematically targeting, grooming, and extorting victims through online social media platforms. Members demand that victims engage in and share media of self-mutilation, sexual acts, harm to animals, acts of random violence, suicide, and murder, all for the purpose of accelerating chaos and disrupting society and the world order. Densmore, known as “Rabid,” became notorious in the 764 network by creating online “Sewer” communities on Discord where members recruited children – including by infiltrating online gaming sites that children frequent – to cut themselves and engage in graphic sexual acts. Densmore boosted membership in “Sewer” by advertising livestreams of children engaging in self-mutilation (cutshows) and sexually explicit activity “on cam.” He threatened victims to cut themselves by telling them, “I have all your information. I own you. . . . You do what I say now kitten.” Densmore kept child pornography and bloody images of “Rabid,” “Sewer,” and “764” carved into victims’ limbs, in some cases with razor blades and boxcutters nearby. Densmore also sexually exploited children. In October 2022, Densmore unsuccessfully tried to persuade a minor girl, Jane Doe, to send him an explicit picture with “Rabid” written on her bare chest. When she expressed discomfort with that request, Densmore contacted another Discord user and paid him Nitro, a form of Discord currency, to help secure a sexually explicit picture of Jane Doe. Densmore’s efforts were successful and Jane Doe, at the request of the other Discord user, sent Densmore and the user a nude video of herself with “Rabid” written on her chest. The Justice Department and FBI reminds parents and caregivers to understand and monitor their children’s online activities. They should also look for unexpected packages, as members of these abuse and extortion networks are known to send children razor blades, sexual devices, gifts, and other materials to use in creating online content. The FBI further advised the public to take a number of precautionary steps, including: Looking for fresh cuts, bruises, wounds, and scars in unusual patterns; Looking for sudden behavior and appearance changes; Being attentive to children wearing long sleeves or pants in unusual circumstances; Monitoring children’s online activity and discussing the risks of sharing information and content; and Running frequent online searches of family and children’s information to help identify and prevent the spread of personal information on the internet. If you are worried about someone who might be self-harming or is at risk of suicide, please consult a health care professional or call 911 in the event of an immediate threat. FBI investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Townshend for the Western District of Michigan prosecuted the case, with valuable assistance from Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, county prosecutor’s offices, the Internet Crimes Against Children task force (ICAC), federal, state, tribal, and local law enforcement are working closely together to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children. The partners in Project Safe Childhood work to educate local communities about the dangers of online child exploitation, and to teach children how to protect themselves. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. Individuals with information or concerns about possible child exploitation should contact local law enforcement officials.


title: Double Carjacker Sentenced to 13 Years in Prison

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Rodney W. Sippel on Thursday sentenced a man involved in two St. Louis area carjackings to 13 years in prison. Ramon D. Davis, 20, committed an armed carjacking in St. Louis in 2021 and another in Webster Groves in 2022. On Nov. 7, 2021, Davis, Montrell M. Jackson and a juvenile and stole a man’s 2006 Mazda3 in an alley near Grand Avenue and Bates Street in south St. Louis. Davis was armed with a Canik TP9 handgun that he had stolen the prior month and Jackson had a Ruger MAX-9 handgun. The next day, the Saint Louis Metropolitan Police Department’s Real Time Crime Center license plate recognition system located the stolen car. St. Louis police joined Hazelwood police in a pursuit that was already in progress. After nearly hitting a police car, Davis lost control and spun out in the middle of an intersection before continuing for more than two miles. After the Mazda crashed into a metal storage container at North Florissant Avenue and Branch Street, Davis and Jackson fled. They were later arrested. Officers found a black satchel inside the Mazda that held both guns used in the carjacking. On Nov. 11, 2022, Ramon Davis, Tristan T. Davis and Jaymond Johnson were in a stolen BMW when Tristan Davis spotted a 2017 Mercedes GLS550 SUV parked in front of a CVS located on Watson Road in Webster Groves. Ramon Davis had an AR-style pistol and confronted an occupant of the Mercedes with it before pushing her to the ground, breaking her finger. Ramon and Tristan Davis drove away in the carjacked Mercedes. Ramon Davis pleaded guilty in July to two counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and two counts of carjacking. Tristan T. Davis, 20, and Montrell M. Jackson, 21, of Northwoods, each pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Tristan Davis was sentenced in September to 90 months in prison and Jackson was sentenced to 70 months. Jaymond Johnson, 20, has pleaded guilty to one count of carjacking and one count of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and awaits sentencing. The St. Louis County Police Department, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the FBI, the Webster Groves Police Department, the Hazelwood Police Department and the Normandy Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Zachary Bluestone and Cassandra Wiemken 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: U.S. Attorney’s Office and University of Maryland Co Host Cybersecurity Conference Amid Spike in Data-Breach Crimes

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore , Maryland – Did you know that in 2023, more than 343 million people were victims of a cybercrime? Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maryland and the University of Maryland hosted a cybersecurity conference to arm business and public sector leaders with vital information to help combat this worldwide issue. According to Forbes Advisor , in 2023, data breaches increased globally by 72 percent. In response to this alarming trend, cybersecurity experts from government and the private sector educated attendees about emerging threats; best practices; and effective collaboration between federal, state, and local agencies, the private sector, and law enforcement. “Cybercrime threatens our national security, our public safety, and our financial security,” said U.S. Attorney Erek L. Barron. “While we work to investigate and prosecute the perpetrators of these crimes, law enforcement must also collaborate with the private sector to effectively prevent and disrupt cyber incidents before they happen. The thoughtful discussions inspired by this conference sets the stage for continued collaboration and partnership between the government, business, and public sectors to protect our critical infrastructure. Many thanks to University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines and our partners at the University for their co-sponsorship of this important conference.” Conference panelists taught attendees how to identify threats and weaknesses, manage a cyber incident, and coordinate with law enforcement. The conference also served as an opportunity for participants to network and continue conversations about enhancing cybersecurity across all sectors of Maryland. "At the University of Maryland, our students and faculty work across campus to develop and deploy technologies to address the grand challenges of our time. We also recognize the importance of protecting our communities from the growing threat of cybercrime that comes when technologies are used for the wrong reasons," said University of Maryland President Darryll J. Pines. "We are grateful for the opportunity provided by this conference to engage with business and government leaders to tackle these critical issues." For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/cybersecurity . # # #


title: Former Ellwood City Resident Pleads Guilty to Charges Related to the Sexual Exploitation of a Minor

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa - A former resident of Ellwood City, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges related to the sexual exploitation of a minor, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. Shayne Clapper, 30, pleaded guilty to five counts before United States District Judge William S. Stickman. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that in January 2023 through February 2023, Clapper initiated a sexual relationship with a minor known to him. Clapper provided the minor with a cell phone that he used to communicate with the minor. Clapper requested and received nude images from the minor. Clapper also induced the minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a sexually explicit video. Law enforcement analyzed Clapper’s cellular telephone and discovered the child sexual abuse images. Judge Stickman scheduled sentencing for March 12, 2025 at 1:30 pm. The law provides for a total sentence of up to life in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Pending sentencing, the defendant remains detained. Assistant United States Attorney Heidi M. Grogan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ellwood City Police Department conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Clapper. 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.justice.gov/psc .