title: Convicted Felon Is Sentenced To 19+ Years In Prison For Trafficking Methamphetamine And Illegal Firearms Possession In Burke County

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Jessie Alan Clark, 42, of Burke County, was sentenced today to 235 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release on drug and gun charges, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which oversees the Charlotte District Office, and Sheriff Banks Hinceman of the Burke County Sheriff’s Office join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement. According to filed court documents and court proceedings, in February 2022, investigators with the Burke County Sheriff’s Office and agents with the DEA determined that Clark was engaged in the distribution of methamphetamine in the area. On February 15, 2022, law enforcement observed a truck attempting to evade detection by law enforcement and began to follow the vehicle. While they followed the vehicle, law enforcement observed a backpack being tossed out of the passenger side of the truck and proceeded to pull over the vehicle. Clark was the driver of the truck, and another individual was a passenger. Over the course of the traffic stop, law enforcement searched Clark, the passenger, the truck, and the backpack that had been tossed from the vehicle, and seized $1,915 in U.S. currency, two gallon-sized bags containing methamphetamine, and a loaded Taurus .38 caliber revolver with six rounds of ammunition. Clark is a convicted felon, and he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. On August 21, 2023, Clark pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Clark will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility, to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. In making today’s announcement U.S. Attorney King thanked the DEA and the Burke County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Hess of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.


title: Jacksonville Man Pleads Guilty To Illegally Selling Firearms And Machinegun Conversion Devices

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida –United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Scott Randall Chance, Jr. (22, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to dealing firearms without a license and knowingly possessing a machinegun. Chance faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to the plea agreement, in October 2022, federal and local law enforcement agencies identified Chance as a source of supply for illegal firearms and machinegun conversion devices (MCDs) in Duval and St. Johns counties. On four separate occasions, between February and July 2023, Chance illegally sold firearms and MCDs to an undercover law enforcement officer. In total, Chance sold six firearms and three MCDs to the undercover officer. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Aakash Singh. 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 Will Thompson Honors Crime Victims and Advocates at Operation Reach Out 2024 Opening Ceremony

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – United States Attorney Will Thompson presented the 2024 Excellence in Victim Advocacy and Justice Awards today during the Opening Ceremony for the 23rd Annual Operation Reach Out at the Robert C. Byrd U.S. Courthouse. Operation Reach Out recognizes crime victims and those who serve them, and is sponsored by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia and the Operation Reach Out Committee. The 2024 Excellence in Victim Advocacy and Justice Awards honorees are: The West Virginia Supreme Court of Appeals , for its Remote Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Outreach Project. This initiative allows victims in a growing number of counties to file petitions and participate in court hearings remotely, without having to be in the same building as the people from whom they are seeking protection. The entire Supreme Court - Chief Justice Tim Armstead, Justice Elizabeth D. Walker, Justice John A. Hutchison, Justice William R. Wooton and Justice C. Haley Bunn - and project officials attended today’s ceremony to accept the award. The Mercer County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, Lt. S.A. Sommers of the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, Elizabeth Street of the West Virginia Department of Human Services, Child Protect of Mercer County, and Guardian Ad Litem Michael Magaan for their roles in the successful prosecution of Eric Shawn Phillips, 43, of Princeton. Phillips was sentenced on November 13, 2023, to 30 years in prison, to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release, and ordered to pay $7,200 in restitution for enticement of a minor. Special Agent Brian Morris of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) for his role in the successful prosecution of Larry Allen Clay Jr., 58, and Kristen Naylor-Legg, 30, of Gauley Bridge. Naylor Legg was sentenced on August 31, 2023, to nine years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor under the age of 18. Naylor-Legg provided her 17-year-old female relative to Clay so he could engage in sexual intercourse with the minor. At the time, Clay was an employee of the Fayette County Sheriff’s Department and the Chief of Police for the Gauley Bridge Police Department. A federal jury convicted Clay on April 28, 2023, of conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor via coercion, sex trafficking of a minor via coercion, and two counts of obstruction of justice. Clay awaits sentencing. Mission West Virginia for promoting positive futures by working to ensure every child has a loving family and the knowledge to make positive choices for a healthier future. Mission West Virginia has been a longtime partner of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia as it recruits and trains foster families and provide support and services to relatives or kinship families caring for youth. YWCA Charleston for its continuing commitment to communities throughout Kanawha, Clay and Boone counties. YWCA Charleston provides crucial services to domestic violence and trafficking victims, such as emergency and transitional housing, counseling and court advocacy. YWCA Charleston is also a longstanding and valued partner of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. The ceremony also featured a special Tree of Remembrance, upon which victims and survivors placed signed cards in memory of a loved one or for themselves as a survivor. “As you look at the tree, we don’t just see pieces of paper. The toughest part of my job and my career, over the last 27 years, has been some of the photographs and videos that I’ve had to see,” said Thompson, a former Boone County Circuit Court judge. “Some of those, I don’t have to carry around in my wallet or anything of that nature. They are forever burned in my brain.” Operation Reach Out aims to raise awareness of victims’ rights, educate the public about the various organizations that provide services to crime victims, and promote crime prevention and safety. Operation Reach Out is held in coordination with National Crime Victims' Rights Week (NCVRW), which is being commemorated this year on April 21-27. The 2024 NCVRW theme is “How would you help? Options, services, and hope for crime survivors.” The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week. In 1981, President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov . More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ojp.gov/program/national-crime-victims-rights-week/overview . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Video of the ceremony is available on the office's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HNnPK9Bc00U ###


title: Two Hampton Roads men sentenced for armed robbery of USPS mail carrier

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: NEWPORT NEWS, Va. – Two Virginia men were sentenced to four years in prison for their roles in the armed robbery of a U.S. Postal Service (USPS) mail carrier. According to court documents, on May 9, 2023, O’Sirus Landres Charles Ford, 21, of Chesapeake, Virginia, robbed a Hampton mail carrier at gunpoint for his “arrow” key, the master key used to access blue collection boxes, outdoor parcel lockers, and apartment mailbox panels, and recruited Jayden Stukes, 21, of Suffolk, Virginia, to assist him in the robbery. Ford specifically wanted to steal a key in the Newport News/Hampton area and requested that Stukes drive him “across the water.” Stukes agreed and informed Ford he would be with Da’Twan Watson, 24, of Chesapeake, and that Watson was “a lock.” When Ford, Stukes, and Watson met at the rental car that Ford had used the previous day for another armed robbery – that time, of a mail carrier in Norfolk – they were unable to gain entry to the vehicle, so Stukes arranged for another of his friends to drive the group. Ford, Stukes, and Watson were all armed with handguns and had masks to cover their faces. After they crossed Hampton Roads, Ford diverted the car from the original destination, the downtown Newport News Post Office, and instead directed the vehicle around a light industrial-commercial area of Hampton. Ford and Watson exited the vehicle to continue hunting down the mailman on foot, and Stukes remained in the car with his friend and communicated with Ford using social media to help him find the USPS target (the victim mail carrier). Watson and Ford encountered the mail carrier on Galax Street in Hampton. Only Ford was armed, but both he and Watson were fully masked as Watson approached from the side. Ford approached the carrier from Galax Street, brandished his firearm, and said, “Give me your keys or I’m gonna shoot you.” He then repeated his demand and began counting down from five. The victim gave Ford his USPS arrow key. Ford and Watson then fled, eventually meeting with Stukes and the driver in an apartment complex nearby before she drove the group back across the water. Watson and Stukes pleaded guilty to interfering with commerce by robbery and aiding and abetting. Stukes was sentenced yesterday; Watson was sentenced today. On Dec. 21, 2023, Ford pleaded guilty to one count of conspiring to interfere with commerce by robbery and one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of, a crime of violence. Ford is currently scheduled to be sentenced May 2. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Ajay Lall, Acting Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service – Washington Division; Jimmie Wideman, Chief of Hampton Police; and Steve R. Drew, Chief of Newport News Police, made the announcement after Watson was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Podlesni and Mack Coleman 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. 4:23-cr-51.


title: New Jersey company and CEO pay $316,779 for defrauding U.S. Postal Service following wire fraud conviction

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – Cornerstone Facility Solutions, LLC (Cornerstone), a maintenance and repair service located in Brick, New Jersey, and its CEO, Paul Galgon III, paid $316,779 to resolve their False Claims Act liability for falsifying invoices and inflating the cost of services provided to the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Cornerstone entered into a service agreement to perform repairs on USPS facilities. USPS requires providers like Cornerstone to report whether they self-performed or subcontracted services for the repairs. If the provider subcontracts the work, the provider is allowed to markup the subcontractor’s cost by no more than 10 percent. From July 2016 to July 2021, Cornerstone submitted false invoices to USPS for repair work, in which Cornerstone claimed its employees performed the work, even though the work was actually performed by subcontractors. Galgon directed Cornerstone employees to alter subcontractor invoices to make them appear as though the work was performed by Cornerstone employees, which enabled Cornerstone to build in an improper 30-percent markup on the subcontractor’s costs. As a result of the scheme, Cornerstone overcharged USPS $158,380. The resolution is the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia and the USPS Office of Inspector General. Galgon also pleaded guilty to one count of criminal wire fraud for the conduct covered by the civil settlement and was sentenced to three years of probation and a $5,000 fine. The civil case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney William Hochul III. The criminal case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Russell L. Carlberg and Kristin S. Starr. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. The related criminal docket may be found at United States v. Galgon , No. 1:23-cr-188 (E.D. Va.).


title: Pittsburgh Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Conspiracy Charge

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a quantity of cocaine, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. James Stewart, 44, pleaded guilty on April 16, 2024, to one count before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that a long-term investigation into drug-trafficking and illegal firearms activity in the Western District of Pennsylvania involving, among others, Anthony Peluso, a heroin and cocaine trafficker who supplied narcotics to lower-level drug traffickers, identified Stewart as one of Peluso’s customers. This included Stewart meeting with Peluso or his associates on multiple occasions to obtain cocaine that Stewart then redistributed to others. The investigation was conducted by the Greater Pittsburgh Safe Streets Task Force, led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for August 15, 2024. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $1 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca L. Silinski and Jonathan D. Lusty are prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations. Other assisting agencies include the Allegheny County Police Department, Baldwin Police Department, Brentwood Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department, and West Deer Township Police Department. This prosecution 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: Sharon Resident Sentenced to More Than Five Years in Prison for Cocaine Trafficking and Firearm Violations

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Sharon, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison for committing cocaine trafficking and firearm crimes, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. United States Senior District Judge Joy Flowers Conti imposed the sentence on Raymond Briskey, 38, also ordering Briskey to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Briskey previously pleaded guilty in this case to possessing with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base on October 21, 2020, and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime. Prior to sentencing, the Court was informed that, when committing these crimes, Briskey had outstanding bench warrants for failures to appear to address drug trafficking and theft charges in two counties in Ohio and to be sentenced for contraband and drug convictions in two cases in Mercer County, Pennsylvania. Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States. United States Attorney Olshan commended the Mercer County Drug Task Force, Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Briskey. 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 of Justice 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: Rock Hill Man Sentenced to 57 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Charge

component: USAO - South Carolina

body_text: COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA — Sharif Ahmad Laguda, 32, of Rock Hill, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Evidence presented to the Court showed that in the early morning hours of July 31, 2022, Laguda was driving to his home when he was involved in a traffic incident with another motorist. During the encounter, Laguda retrieved a 9mm pistol from his car and fired the pistol at the other motorist’s car, striking the car five times. Laguda later turned over the pistol to Rock Hill Police Department investigators. Laguda was prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition based on a 2010 conviction for two counts of assault and battery with intent to kill. United States District Judge Mary Geiger Lewis sentenced James to 57 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Rock Hill Police Department (RHPD). Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Taylor is prosecuting the case. ###


title: Justice Department Sues to Shut Down Miami Return Preparer

component: Tax Division

body_text: The Justice Department’s Tax Division filed a civil injunction suit today to permanently bar Nia Daniel and her tax return preparation business, Nia Help Service LLC, from preparing federal income tax returns for others. The complaint, filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Florida, alleges that Daniel prepared over 2,000 federal income tax returns from 2020 through 2024 and that she employed a variety of schemes to understate her customers’ tax liabilities and overstate the refunds to which they were entitled. The complaint alleges that Daniel made up false businesses on customers’ returns, knowingly reported fake or inflated business expenses and fraudulently claimed various credits like the Work Opportunity Tax Credit, American Opportunity Credit and Residential Energy Credit – usually without customers’ knowledge. The complaint goes on to explain that Daniels falsified customers’ income and filing statuses to increase the amount of the Earned Income Tax Credit. According to the complaint, the United States has been harmed by Daniel’s conduct, resulting in the significant loss in tax revenue of more than $500,000 in 2023 alone. In addition to seeking an injunction, the government requests an order of disgorgement to prevent Daniel and her business from profiting from their violation of the internal revenue laws. Deputy Assistant Attorney General David A. Hubbert of the Justice Department’s Tax Division made the announcement. Return preparer fraud is one of the IRS’s Dirty Dozen Tax Scams and taxpayers seeking a return preparer should remain vigilant against dishonest tax preparers. The IRS has information on its website for choosing a tax return preparer and has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers. The IRS also offers guidance on the credentials and qualifications that taxpayers should seek from their return preparer. In the past decade, the Justice Department’s Tax Division has obtained injunctions against hundreds of unscrupulous tax preparers. Information about these cases is available on the Justice Department’s website . An alphabetical listing of persons enjoined from preparing returns and promoting tax schemes can be found on this page . If you believe that one of the enjoined persons or businesses may be violating an injunction, please contact the Tax Division with details. Daniel Complaint - ecf stamped.pdf


title: 34 Individuals from Across the United States Indicted on Charges of Criminal Conspiracy Involving Illegal Drugs, Firearms, Money Laundering, Cockfighting and Attempts to Kill Witnesses

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Yakima, Washington – United States Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref announced today that 28 people are in state or federal custody following the return of six separate indictments alleging more than two dozen charges against thirty-four separate defendants. Certain of the individuals indicted are not yet in federal custody. The arrests follow a long-term joint federal and state investigation led by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives into La Nuestra Familia (NF), a violent prison gang responsible for trafficking dangerous drugs into our community for the enrichment of their members, which includes leaders of this organization who, in some cases, are serving life sentences in the United States Penitentiary, Administrative Maximum Facility in Florence, Colorado (USP Florence ADMAX). USP Florence ADMAX is one of the Bureau of Prisons’ most secure facilities, providing an even higher level of custody than a regular maximum-security prison. The arrests are the result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation that began in approximately 2018 and spanned multiple jurisdictions from various locations in Washington State, to include Yakima County, the Yakama Reservation, Spokane County, and Walla Walla County. The operation also extended into Louisiana, Colorado, and Arkansas. The conspiracy indictment alleges Robert Patrick Hanrahan, Rigoberto Escobedo Gonzalez, Travis Michael McGuire, and Jose Alfredo Chavez Arredondo, acted as supervisors to dozens of individuals engaged in a continuing criminal enterprise that included possession and distribution of illegal drugs, cockfighting, possession of illegal firearms, illegal use of the U.S. Mail, and attempts to kill those who assisted law enforcement in this investigation. Multiple individuals have also been charged with laundering the proceeds made from these illicit ventures. Upon release of the conspiracy indictment, which was unsealed earlier today upon the arrest of several suspects, United States Attorney Waldref stated, “I am grateful for the coordinated efforts of so many law enforcement agencies, who simultaneously executed more than twenty search warrants in the Yakima area and across the United States earlier today. More than 350 federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement came together to coordinate the takedown of this alleged drug trafficking operation.” U.S. Attorney Waldref continued, “It is an honor to lead important prosecutions, such as this one, which has removed illegal drugs and firearms from our community and illegal narcotics from the Bureau of Prisons. Our community and our nation are safer and stronger as a result of the incredible work of our law enforcement and prosecution teams.” During the operation, agents seized approximately 37 firearms, thousands of rounds of ammunition, pound quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine, as well as more than 8,000 fentanyl-laced pills. Additionally, the law enforcement team seized more than $20,000 in U.S. currency. Agents also seized hundreds of roosters from locations in Zillah and Outlook, Washington. The roosters were allegedly used in cockfights. Many of the roosters are being turned over to the care of Heartwood Haven Animal Rescue located in Roy, Washington. According to unsealed charging documents, the following individuals have been in connection with ATF’s joint investigation. The United States anticipates bringing additional charges against other individuals identified during the execution of search warrants early today. In addition, the names of others indicted in connection with this investigation will be unsealed upon the arrest of those individuals. Fabian Arredondo a/k/a “DV,” 34, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances and Conspiracy to Launder Money. Joanna Arredondo , 34, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money Jose Alfredo Chavez Arredondo a/k/a “Cuyi,” 43, charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl, Distribution of Cocaine, Conspiracy to Launder Money, Unlawful Animal Fighting Jose Alfredo Ricardo Arredondo a/k/a “Papaz,” 25, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Cocaine, Distribution of Cocaine, Unlawful Possession of a Machinegun Alexa Joann Carras-Blackburn , 35, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money Pablo Angel Castellon a/k/a “Sapo,” 40, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Conspiracy to Launder Money Mayda Ivette Castellon , 36, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money Jacenir Amezcua Dasilva a/k/a “Serio,” 30, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money, Attempt to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness, Conspiracy to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness Marco Anthony Gomez, Jr . a/k/a “Silky,” 45, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money Rigoberto Escobedo Gonzalez a/k/a “Crazy Thugg,” 35, charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Distribution of Cocaine, Conspiracy to Launder Money Robert Patrick Hanrahan a/k/a “Bubba,” 52, charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Launder Money Jazmine Renea Hart , 32, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money Maria Esperanza Hermoso, 28, Conspiracy to Launder Money Adrean Kendall Lafollette a/k/a “Hunger,” 33, charged with Conspiracy to Launder Money Travis Michael Mcguire a/k/a “Slim,” 49, charged with Continuing Criminal Enterprise, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Conspiracy to Unlawfully Use a Communication Facility, Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl, Attempted Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Conspiracy to Launder Money Jesus Antonio Mirelez a/k/a “Dizzy,” 34, Conspiracy to Launder Money, Felon in Possession of a Firearm Felipe Feliciano Ramirez a/k/a “Casper,” 44, charged with Conspiracy to Unlawfully Use a Communications Facility, Conspiracy to Launder Money Logan Paul Scheck a/k/a “Sin,” 31, Conspiracy to Launder Money Brian Lee Sellers , 62, charged with Conspiracy to Unlawfully Use a Communications Facility, Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance, Conspiracy to Launder Money Misael Vazquez-Moreno , 26, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl Fernando Villegas , 25, charged with Unlawful Animal Fighting Thomas Lee Weatherwax a/k/a “Wax,” 25, charged with Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled Substances, Conspiracy to Launder Money Yesika Escobedo Zaragoza , 40, charged with Conspiracy to Money Launder Arthur Frank Cardenas a/k/a “Porkchop,” 45, charged with Attempt to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness, Conspiracy to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness Joshua Isaac Stine a/k/a “Heat,” 39, charged with Attempt to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness, Conspiracy to Retaliate Against a Federal Witness Hugo Enrique Davadi a/k/a “Flako,” 36, charged with Distribution of 40 Grams or More of Fentanyl Certain of the individuals will be arraigned at the Yakima and Spokane Federal Courthouses at 2 p.m. on Friday, April 19. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives conducted the investigation along with the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S Marshals Service, U.S. Border Patrol, Federal Bureau of Prisons, ICE Enforcement Removal Operations, Washington State Patrol, Washington State Department of Corrections, Washington State Gambling Commission, Yakima Police Department, Yakima County Sheriff’s Office, Grandview Police Department, Walla Walla Regional Drug Task Force, Selah Police Department, Spokane Police Department, and the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys from the Eastern District of Washington are prosecuting the case. Former AUSA Frances Walker was the initial prosecutor on the case. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Three Accused of Transporting Stolen Goods from St. Louis County

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ST. LOUIS – Three men from Florida have been accused of transporting hundreds of thousands of dollars in stolen property out of the St. Louis area. Benjamin Andres Ovalle-Taibo, now 31, Jonathan Vejar-Caro, 31, and Henry Jose Ferreira-Perez, 20, were each indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis on Nov. 1, 2023, on one count of transportation of stolen goods. Ferreira-Perez appeared in court Thursday and pleaded not guilty. The other two are in custody in Florida. The indictment accuses the three men of transporting more than $5,000 in stolen goods. A motion seeking to have Ferreira-Perez detained until trial says he and his associates traveled from Florida to St. Louis County on June 9, 2023, where they stole hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of items. A detention motion for Vejar-Caro says he arrived in the United States from Chile in February of 2023. In court Thursday, Ferreira-Perez said he is from Venezuela. Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. The case was investigated by the FBI and Ladue Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cort VanOstran is prosecuting the case.


title: Maryland Man Sentenced to 140 Months in Prison for Attempting to Arrange Sex with a 14-Year-Old Child

body_text: WASHINGTON – Jose Eduardo Valasquez, 62, of Solomons Island, Maryland, was sentenced today to 140 months in prison for attempting to meet up with an underaged child in Washington D.C. for sex. The sentence, in U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia, was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Valasquez pleaded guilty to a count of coercion and enticement on December 15, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Tanya S. Chutkan. In addition to the prison term, Judge Chutkan ordered Valasquez to serve 15 years of supervised release and register as a sex offender. According to court documents, Valasquez began communicating on social media with a person he believed to be a 14-year-old girl on November 16, 2020. In reality, the girl was an undercover officer working with FBI/MPD Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. Valasquez, using an account bearing the username “Jose E V,” initiated a conversation with the undercover officer by sending a message to the effect of “I really like you” in Spanish. Valasquez eventually offered $200 to “be with [her] in bed.” Valasquez then arranged a November 17 meet-up in Northwest, Washington, D.C, after he got off work at 5 p.m. He sent amorous messages and exchanged text messages about being a 9 th grader in high school. On the way to a motel for his expected tryst, Valasquez got a flat tire on I-395 and had to reschedule. Valasquez canceled another planned assignation after he was scared off by police. On December 14, 2020, Valasquez asked if he could pick up her at 2:30 that day to have sex. At approximately 2:26 p.m., Valasquez asked his correspondent to walk up to 19th and C Street Northeast. Members of law enforcement located Valasquez near the corner of 19th and C Streets Northeast, operating a Toyota Corolla. Police arrested Valasquez at 15th and C Streets Northeast. Valasquez admitted that he drove from Maryland to the District to have sex with someone he believed was a 14-year-old girl, on the date of December 14, 2020. He arrived at the arranged meet location for the sexual act, only to be confronted by law enforcement and learn that the 14-year-old girl with whom he had been communicating was actually a law enforcement agent. He also admitted that his efforts to entice the person to meet him at locations outside of the District of Columbia were for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual activity with a 14-year-old girl. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation/Metropolitan Police Department Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force It was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Arco and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jocelyn Bond, as well as former Assistant U.S. Attorney Angela Buckner. 23cr223


title: New Haven Gang Member Admits Role in 2 Murders, 2 Other Shootings

body_text: ANTWAN HILL, also known as “Bandz,” 21, of New Haven, pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to a racketeering offense stemming from his role in a violent New Haven street gang. Today’s announcement was made by Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; John P. Doyle, Jr., State’s Attorney for the New Haven Judicial District; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Stephen Belleau, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England; and New Haven Police Chief Karl Jacobson. According to court documents and statements made in court, in an effort to address violence in New Haven, the ATF, FBI, DEA and New Haven Police Department, working closely with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, have been investigating an ongoing gang war between members and associates of the Exit 8 street gang and rival gangs in the Hill section and other areas of the city. The Exit 8 gang is named after the geographic area accessed by exiting Interstate 91 at Exit 8 in New Haven. Recently, younger members of Exit 8 are identifying themselves with the word “Honcho,” which is derived from the street name of an Exit 8 member who was murdered on Quinnipiac Avenue in February 2020. The investigation revealed that Hill and other members of the Exit 8 gang engaged in drug trafficking, used and shared firearms, and, since June 2018, have committed at least three murders and 16 attempted murders. Exit 8 members and associates also stole vehicles, at times from outside of the state, and used those stolen vehicles when committing acts of violence. Gang members also promoted, coordinated, facilitated, and celebrated their narcotics distribution and acts of violence through text messaging and the use of social media applications and websites including Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and YouTube. Hill pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity, and specifically admitted that he took part in four gang-related shootings, which resulted in two deaths. On September 26, 2020, Hill and another Exit 8 gang member shot and attempted to kill a member and associate of a rival gang. On May 19, 2021, Hill and other Exit 8 members conspired to kill rival gang members, including a rival gang member who was shot and killed on that date by another Exit 8 member. On July 5, 2021, Hill and another Exit 8 member shot and killed an individual. On April 12, 2022, Hill and another Exit 8 member shot and attempted to kill rival gang members. At sentencing, which is not scheduled, Hill faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He has been detained since August 3, 2023. This investigation is being conducted by ATF, the FBI, the DEA, the New Haven Police Department, the Hamden Police Department, and the New Haven State’s Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the Connecticut State Police and the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara E. Levens, Rahul Kale and Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis. This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), Project Longevity and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs. PSN is a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone. Project Longevity is a comprehensive initiative to reduce gun violence in Connecticut’s major cities. Through Project Longevity, community members and law enforcement directly engage with members of groups that are prone to commit violence and deliver a community message against violence, a law enforcement message about the consequences of further violence and an offer of help for those who want it. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Department of Justice announces Carjacking Task Force targeting violent crime in the Eastern District of Texas

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – The Justice Department established the formation of carjacking task forces in 11 targeted districts across the United States, including the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs. “The Justice Department has no higher priority than keeping our communities safe. We do so by targeting the most significant drivers of violent crime and by acting as a force multiplier for our state and local law enforcement partners. We’re seeing results — with violent crime declining broadly nationwide,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Today, we are launching seven new carjacking task forces across the country to build on the success of task forces in Chicago, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Tampa, where available data shows that carjacking rates are now falling. When prosecutors, officers, agents, and analysts come together to crunch data, share intelligence, and apply best practices, we can make real progress in the fight against all forms of violent crime, including carjacking.” In keeping with the Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime , the task forces represent a strategic enforcement priority for the Department, focusing federal resources on identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the most significant drivers of violent crime. Building on the initial efforts of and best practices learned from carjacking task forces in the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Columbia, Northern District of Illinois, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, and Middle District of Florida, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices in the following seven districts are announcing the creation of carjacking task forces in their communities: District of Oregon Eastern District of Texas Northern District of Alabama Northern District of California Eastern District of Louisiana Southern District of Mississippi Western District of Washington Carjacking and other violent crime task forces have proven to be an effective part of successful violent crime reduction strategies by focusing on significant crime drivers and taking violent offenders off the streets of our communities. For example, carjackings in Philadelphia declined by 31% from 2022 to 2023, and armed carjackings are down 28% in the District of Columbia this year compared to the same period in 2023. In Chicago, carjackings decreased 29% from a high in 2021 through the end of 2023. U.S. Attorney Diggs announced the newly formed task force in the Eastern District of Texas, led by Deputy Chief of Violent Crime John B. Ross, the FBI, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), alongside state and local law enforcement partners, including the Beaumont and Port Arthur police departments. These task force members will come together to institute expedited sharing and prompt action procedures related to car thefts, carjackings, and the recovery of stolen or suspect vehicles — as well as effective evidence gathering and technology exploitation strategies. The task forces will also collaborate on how to use federal sentencing enhancements for cases where adults use juveniles to commit carjackings, as well as work with state and local authorities to ensure the appropriate handling of juvenile suspects. The task forces will also assist state and local officials who wish to seek Justice Department grant funding for juvenile intervention and diversion resources. ###


title: Framingham Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Illegally Possessing Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Framingham man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston to unlawfully possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Edwin Alago, 43, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper to seven years in prison and three years of supervised release. In December 2023, Alago pleaded guilty to one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. In May 2021, Alago was found by police inside a car that was parked outside of a Framingham business. The lights were on and the car was running, but Alago was unresponsive and did not appear to be breathing. Officers roused Alago, removed him from the car and found that he was in possession of Xanax, gabapentin and cocaine. Alago’s fingerprints were also found on a SCCY .9mm CPX-2 semi-automatic pistol that was in the car. The gun had a defaced serial number and was loaded with seven rounds of .9mm ammunition. Alago was combative and spit on police officers. Alago was charged in Framingham District Court with possession of a Class E substance (Xanax and gabapentin), possession of a Class B substance (cocaine) and assault and battery on a police officer. He pleaded guilty to these charges in October 2023 and was sentenced to 30 days in prison to run concurrent with the federal sentence imposed today. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Middlesex County District Attorney’s Office and the Framingham Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Meghan C. Cleary and Brian Sullivan of the Major Crimes Unit 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: Thirty-Seven Gang Members and Associates Sentenced in Large-Scale Racketeering and Drug Trafficking Case

body_text: The 37th and final defendant was sentenced today in a Northern District of Mississippi case that targeted the violent activities, drug trafficking, and money laundering of the Simon City Royals prison gang. Joshua Miller, 33, of Jackson, Mississippi, was sentenced to 16 years and eight months in prison for Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations Act (RICO) conspiracy, including conspiracy to murder, related to his participation in the Simon City Royals. “The Simon City Royals gang engaged in murder and torture and smuggled drugs and other contraband into prisons,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Today’s sentencing of 37 gang members ends the gang’s reign of terror in the communities and prisons of Mississippi. This prosecution demonstrates the Justice Department’s resolve, along with our law enforcement partners, in holding violent criminal gang members to account.” “Society simply cannot function if criminals and gangs are allowed to inflict violence on individuals and communities without consequences, and this years-long investigation and prosecution demonstrates that such criminality will not go unchecked,” said U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner for the Northern District of Mississippi. “I want to express extreme gratitude to our law enforcement partners for their tremendous efforts in putting an end to the reign of terror perpetrated by the Simon City Royals members and affiliates convicted in this case.” According to court documents, the Simon City Royals were a violent prison gang operating primarily in the Mississippi Department of Corrections, but with members and associates acting on their behalf outside of prison throughout Mississippi, Louisiana, Alabama, Tennessee, and elsewhere. Through their sophisticated structure and an alliance with the violent Gangster Disciples gang, the Simon City Royals engaged in a host of criminal activities, including murder, attempted murder, assault, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, witness tampering, money laundering, interstate travel in aid of racketeering, large-scale drug trafficking, and fraud. “This investigation shows the dedication of the ATF and its law enforcement partners to making our neighborhoods safer by disrupting and dismantling these violent gangs wherever they exist,” said Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) New Orleans. “We will continue to be aggressive in stopping their criminal activities, bringing them to justice, and making an impact on reducing violent crime in our communities.” “This final sentencing shatters the myth of the Simon City Royals’ invincibility,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven L. Hofer of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) New Orleans Field Division. “Keeping our communities safe is the DEA’s unshakeable mission. This message goes out to all who peddle drugs and unleash gun violence: law enforcement is relentless. We will never stop, not on the streets, not behind bars. We will dismantle these violent gangs, bringing the full force of the federal government to bear, and ensure they no longer terrorize our communities.” The Simon City Royals were responsible for the brutal murder of a prison inmate in 2018, when a Simon City Royals leader issued a “kill on sight” order, directing any gang member who encountered the targeted inmate to murder him. In January 2018, Dillon Heffker and Robert Williams acted on the order, stabbing the victim dozens of times with improvised prison knives. Leaders of the Simon City Royals rewarded Heffker and Williams for the murder by arranging for hundreds of dollars to be directed to their prison commissary accounts. “In over 40 years of working with law enforcement and the State and federal courts in Mississippi, this case took as many serious offenders off the street as any I can remember,” said U.S. Marshal Daniel R. McKittrick. “Thanks to all the agencies that work together to try and keep our communities safe.” “The U.S. Secret Service is committed to investigating and pursuing those who aim to exploit our nation’s financial systems in order to further a criminal enterprise,” said Resident Agent in Charge Kyle Smith of the U.S. Secret Service’s Jackson Resident Office. “Thanks to the hard work of our law enforcement partners, a violent gang was dismantled and the individuals involved can now be held responsible for their crimes.” The Simon City Royals were also responsible for the savage kidnapping and torture of a former gang member for perceived violations of the gang’s code of conduct. In 2015, a member of the Simon City Royals kidnapped the victim at knifepoint and forced him into a hotel room. There, Simon City Royals members and associates tied the victim to a chair, interrogated him, tortured him, and burned off his Simon City Royals tattoo. In addition, the Simon City Royals engaged in widespread drug trafficking, including smuggling large quantities of methamphetamine, marijuana and synthetic marijuana, heroin, and benzodiazepines into dozens of Mississippi state prison facilities. The gang distributed these dangerous substances, including nearly 100% pure crystal methamphetamine, to inmates throughout the prison system. Prior to Miller’s sentencing, his co-conspirators were sentenced to the following terms of imprisonment: Allen Posey, 48, of Jackson, 20 years; Jonathan Davis, 39, of Chattanooga, Tennessee, 30 years and five months; Jeremy Holcombe, 43, of Meridian, Mississippi, 20 years; Jonathan Burnett, 39, of Birmingham, Alabama, 22 years and six months; Hank Chapman, 38, of Riply, Mississippi, three years; Jason Hayden, 42, of Picayune, Mississippi, five years; Gavin Pierson, 33, of San Diego, 21 years and 10 months; Justin Shaw, 36, of Holly Springs, Mississippi, 25 years; Bobby Brumfield, 44, of New Orleans, 15 years and eight months; Jordan Deakles, 31, of Gulfport, Mississippi, two years and six months; Bryce Francis, 43, of Columbus, Ohio, 15 years; Anthony Murphy, 30, of Hattiesburg, Mississippi, 10 years; Chancy Bilbo, 31, of Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, 20 years; Dillon Heffker, 32, of Bay St. Louis, 35 years; Douglas Jones, 34, of Jackson, 19 years and seven months; Cody Woodall, 31, of Gulfport, five years; Michael Muscolino, 43, of Phoenix, five years; Valerie Madden, 54, of Chicago, two years; Samuel Conwill, 45, of Tupelo, Mississippi, time served of 20 months; Jason Collins, 40, of Loraine, Ohio, five years; Justin Leake, 43, of Meridian, 25 years; Michael Dossett, 42, of Carriere, Mississippi, six years and six months; Angel Labauve, 43, of Picayune, Mississippi, nine months; Bruce Floyd, 42, of Senatobia, Mississippi, 10 years and five months; Jacquelyn Harmon, 33, of Senatobia, one year and months; Cody Myrick, 33, of Grenada, Mississippi, one year and eight months; Craig Thomas, 36, of Grenada, two years and three months; Arvis Tolbert, 43, of Hurley, Mississippi, three years; Preston Edwards, 36, of Jackson, 21 years and 10 months; Catherine Perry, 41, of Tupelo, five years; John Brooks, 37, of Greenwood, Mississippi, 10 years; Alana Dickey, 21, of Holly Springs, five years of probation; Austin Ruby, 35, of Holly Springs, 10 years; Chris Vincent, 20, of Gulfport, five years and two months; Trevor Overby, 45, of Jackson, time served of 18 months; and Anthony Rouse, 33, of Picayune, 10 years. The ATF, DEA, the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI Jackson Field Office, the Mississippi Department of Corrections, and dozens of local law enforcement agencies across multiple states investigated the cases, with valuable assistance from the Tupelo Police Department, Marshall County Sheriff's Department, Benton County Sheriff's Department, and Tippah County Sheriff’s Department. Trial Attorney Ben Tonkin of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel Stringfellow for the Northern District of Mississippi prosecuted the cases, with valuable assistance from former Assistant U.S. Attorney Annette Williams for the Southern District of Mississippi.


title: Provincetown Man Arrested for Possessing and Distributing Child Pornography

body_text: BOSTON – A Provincetown man was arrested today for child pornography offenses. The defendant allegedly possessed several thousand image and video files containing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Laurence Pagnoni, 63, was charged with one count of possession of child pornography and one count of distribution of child pornography. Following an initial appearance in federal court in Boston this afternoon before U.S. District Court Magistrate Judge Jennifer C. Boal, Pagnoni was released on conditions, including home detention with electronic monitoring. According to the charging documents, an individual arrested in a child exploitation sting reported to law enforcement that, in March of 2023, Pagnoni allegedly distributed CSAM to him via the online cloud storage platform Mega. It was determined that Pagnoni had allegedly sent thousands of CSAM files to this individual. During a search of Pagnoni’s home in Provincetown in May of 2023 a number of items, including Pagnoni’s cellphone, were seized. During a subsequent search of Pagnoni’s cellphone, it is alleged that several thousand image files and video files containing CSAM, including at least 51 known series of CSAM as identified by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children, were discovered. Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274. The charge of distribution of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charge of possession of child pornography provides for a of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Suffolk County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Luke A. Goldworm of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.


title: Mexican National Indicted for Possessing over 200,000 Fentanyl Pills with Intent to Distribute

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a two-count indictment today against Miguel Obed Romero Reyes, 25, of Sinaloa, Mexico, charging him with possessing over 400 grams of fentanyl with intent to distribute, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, Romero conspired with another individual to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl. Romero was pulled over by law enforcement officers while driving north on Interstate 5 in Fresno County. Deputies seized a large duffel bag containing 48 pounds (21.8 kilograms) of blue counterfeit M-30 pills in 20 separate 1-gallon Ziploc bags. In total, Romero was transporting over 200,000 fentanyl pills in his car. This case is the product of an investigation by the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cody S. Chapple is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Romero faces a statutory minimum of 10 years with a statutory maximum of life in prison, and a $10 million fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Readout of Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco’s Trip to Detroit and Chicago

body_text: Deputy Attorney General (AG) Lisa Monaco traveled to Detroit and Chicago this week to highlight the Justice Department’s work with state and local law enforcement to successfully drive down violent crime across the United States. Launched in 2021, the Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime focuses federal resources — such as personnel, intelligence, and expertise — on identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the most significant drivers of violent crime. After a rise beginning in 2020 during the pandemic, violent crime is on a downward trajectory — including double-digit drops in homicide rates across many major cities. In Detroit, the Deputy AG underscored the strong law enforcement and community partnerships that led the city to close out 2023 with the fewest homicides on record in over 50 years. She met with Detroit Police Chief James White and toured the Detroit Police Department’s Real-Time Crime Center, which harnesses real-time data to help federal, state, and local law enforcement collaborate to tackle violent crime. Together with U.S. Attorney Dawn N. Ison for the Eastern District of Michigan and other city officials, the Deputy AG delivered remarks at a convening of One Detroit — the Eastern District of Michigan’s violent crime reduction initiative that brings together law enforcement, nonprofits, faith leaders, and policymakers to address every element of violent crime. In stressing the importance of partnerships like One Detroit she said: “When data informs strategy that is guided by community, when trust develops into real partnership, and when prevention, intervention, and enforcement all work hand in hand — that’s a formula for success against violent crime.” In Chicago, joined by Director Steven Dettelbach of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual for the Northern District of Illinois, Superintendent Larry Snelling of the Chicago Police Department, Illinois Attorney General Kwame Raoul, and other law enforcement leaders, Deputy AG Monaco announced a new, expanded Crime Gun Intelligence Center (CGIC) — which brings together personnel from 13 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to focus exclusively on investigating and preventing gun violence. CGICs use cutting-edge technology to rapidly develop and pursue investigative leads to drive case clearance rates up — which in turn can drive violent crime rates down. In her announcement, the Deputy AG said: “To continue our historic progress against violent crime, we need to bring more crime gun intelligence to more law enforcement agencies, in more jurisdictions, more quickly than ever before.” The Deputy AG also previewed the Justice Department’s launch of seven new carjacking task forces across the country, which build on the success of current task forces in several cities — including Chicago — where available data shows that carjacking rates are now falling. These task forces will bring together prosecutors, officers, agents, and analysts to share intelligence and apply best practices to tackle this public safety threat. On her trip, the Deputy AG visited the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of Michigan and Northern District of Illinois, where she thanked the dedicated prosecutors and professional staff of both offices for their dedication to the Department’s mission, especially the work each office is doing to tackle violent crime in their communities. Photo credit: Detroit Police Department. Photo credit: Detroit Police Department. Photo credit: Chicago Police Department.


title: Alleged Airline Stowaway Passenger Facing Federal Charges

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: Salt Lake City, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment charging a Texas man for national security crimes after he allegedly took photos of other airline passenger’s tickets and then attempted to take a flight to Texas while hiding in the aircraft’s lavatory. According to court documents, on March 17, 2024, Wicliff Yves Fleurizard, 26 of Leander, Texas, boarded Delta Airlines flight #1683 from Salt Lake City International Airport to Austin, Texas. After boarding the aircraft, Fleurizard was assisted by a flight attendant to the front lavatory after witnessing him opening the emergency equipment storage door. While others boarded, Fleurizard remained in the lavatory. After boarding was completed, and before the aircraft doors were secured, Fleurizard exited the front lavatory and made his way to the back of the aircraft and entered the back lavatory. After Fleurizard exited the back lavatory, a flight attendant noticed no seats were available and approached Fleurizard. At this time the aircraft doors were secured, and the aircraft started to taxi to the runway. Fleurizard identified a seat as his to the flight attendant, but the flight attendant verified that the passenger in that seat actually purchased the seat. Flight attendants searched for Fleurizard’s name on their Guest Service Tool but were unable to locate a valid ticket or booking reservation for him. The aircraft returned to the gate and Fleurizard was met by law enforcement upon exiting the aircraft. As alleged in the complaint, during the investigation by law enforcement, surveillance footage showed Fleurizard in the boarding area taking photos of multiple passenger’s phones and/or boarding passes while they were not looking. Surveillance footage also showed that Fleurizard used his phone as a boarding pass when he boarded the plane. Fleurizard is charged with being a stowaway on an aircraft, and access device fraud. His initial court appearance on the indictment will take place at a later date before a U.S. Magistrate Judge. United States Attorney Trina A. Higgins of the District of Utah made the announcement. The case is being investigated by an FBI Task Force Officer with the Salt Lake City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Bryan N. Reeves of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. Attachment: wicliffyvesfleurizard.indictment.pdf


title: U.S. Attorney Hurwit Highlights Success of Project Safe Neighborhoods Initiative

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

body_text: BOISE – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the results of three separate firearms and ammunition cases in Southern Idaho today that were prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative. “Our mission is to keep Idahoans safe from violence, and this means enforcing the law that prohibits convicted felons from possessing firearms and/or ammunition, especially those offenders with prior violent felony convictions such as these defendants,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “I am grateful to our prosecutors and our law enforcement partners for their dedication to these critical cases, which help keep Idaho a safe and wonderful place to live.” Convicted Felon and Domestic Abuser Sentenced to 87 Months for Unlawfully Possessing Firearms, Including a Ghost Gun. In one case, Brent Logan, 35, of Boise, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford to 87 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of a firearm. According to court records, in the winter of 2023, officers responded to a report of domestic violence. Logan was found in possession of five firearms, including a personally manufactured firearm, also known as a ghost gun. At the time of the offense, Logan was on probation for two prior convictions involving domestic violence and was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction for aggravated assault. Judge Brailsford also ordered Logan to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Logan pleaded guilty to the federal charge in December 2023. U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the Violent Crimes Unit of the Boise Police Department and the ATF for their investigation on this case. This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Manweiler. Garden Valley Man Sentenced to 66 months for Unlawfully Possessing Ammunition. In another case, Forest Saba, 39, of Garden Valley, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford to 66 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of ammunition. According to court records, on September 28, 2022, Boise police officers were providing an escort to Saba’s estranged wife due to domestic violence and stalking concerns. Officers observed a vehicle following the wife. Saba was a passenger in this vehicle. Officers conducted a traffic stop on the vehicle and Saba fled on foot. Officers eventually arrested him. In Saba’s pocket, officers located ammunition and two knives. At the time of his arrest, Saba was prohibited from possessing ammunition due to three prior felony convictions, including a conviction for aggravated battery. This is Saba’s third federal firearms conviction. Judge Brailsford also ordered Saba to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. The district court found Saba guilty after a stipulated bench trial in October 2023. U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the cooperative efforts of the Boise Police Department and the ATF, which led to the charge. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Francis Zebari and Christian Nafzger. Nyssa Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Unlawfully Possessing Ammunition. In a third case, Oscar Garcia, 38, of Nyssa, Oregon, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford to 120 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of ammunition. According to court records, on December 22, 2022, officers attempted to arrest Garcia on a warrant for violations of his supervised release. He refused to pull over in Payette, Idaho and began a high-speed chase, reaching speeds of 110 mph. He drove into Oregon and crashed his vehicle in Nyssa and attempted to flee on foot. He was ultimately apprehended and searched. He possessed a .40 caliber magazine containing 14 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. At the time of his arrest, Garcia was prohibited from possessing ammunition due to a 2011 conviction in the U.S. District Court, District of Idaho, for conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise and attempted murder in aid of racketeering. Garcia had previously been convicted in Oregon of manslaughter I, assault II, unlawful possession of a controlled substance, escape III, and assault IV. Judge Brailsford also ordered Garcia to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence and pay a $1,000 fine. Garcia pleaded guilty to the federal charge in October 2023. U.S. Attorney Hurwit credited the United States Marshal Service, the Malheur County Sheriff’s Office, the Ontario Police Department, the Fruitland Police Department, the Payette County Sheriff’s Office, the Nyssa Police Department, and the ATF, for their collaborative work on this case. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Nafzger. These three cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The Logan case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. ###


title: Jackson County Man On Federal Supervised Release Is Sentenced To 10+ Years In Prison On Drug And Gun Charges

body_text: ASHEVILLE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Martin Reidinger sentenced John Allen Wise, 45, of Cashiers, N.C., to 121 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for distribution of methamphetamine and illegal possession of firearms, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which oversees the Charlotte District Office, and Sheriff Doug Farmer of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement. According to court documents, Wise was on court-ordered supervised release after serving a term of imprisonment on a federal drug conviction. On August 5, 2022, law enforcement with the U.S. Probation Office and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office arrived at Wise’s residence to arrest him on a supervised release violation warrant and to conduct a planned search. Law enforcement encountered Wise sitting on his front porch with a small bag containing methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Law enforcement proceeded to search the residence, seizing fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine, digital scales and items consistent with drug distribution, a loaded semiautomatic pistol, and multiple rounds of ammunition. Wise’s criminal conviction prohibits him from possessing firearms and ammunition. On April 24, 2023, Wise pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Wise is currently in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the U.S. Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility. In making today’s announcement U.S. Attorney King thanked the DEA and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation of the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Hess of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.


title: Kansas City, Kansas Men Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Kansas City man was sentenced on April 11, 2024, to 260 months in federal prison after being found guilty by jury trial on Counts One and Two of the Indictment. His co-defendant was sentenced on December 12, 2023, to 120 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to Counts One and Two of the Indictment. According to public court documents, George Madison Kitchen, IV, 46, and Cardel Jordan Harris, 26, were transporting methamphetamine from Kansas City, Missouri with a destination of Sioux Falls, South Dakota. In July 2022 law enforcement stopped Kitchen for a traffic violation with Harris as a passenger. Kitchen and Harris were asked to step out of the vehicle due to the odor of marijuana, instead of stepping out, they fled the scene. Kitchen led officers, from different agencies, on a high-speed pursuit northbound on Interstate 29. The vehicle was stopped north of Council Bluffs. Kitchen and Harris threw bags out the passenger side window while speeding along the interstate. Officers found the bags along the interstate which resulted in the discovery of distribution quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine. Kitchen must serve a ten-year term of supervised release after the prison term. Harris must serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Council Bluffs Police Department, the Harrison County Sheriff’s Department, and the Missouri Valley Police Department were involved in the apprehension and the Pottawattamie County Sheriff’s Department, and the Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force were involved in the apprehension and investigation of the case.


title: Two Council Bluffs Residents Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance

body_text: COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced on April 11, 2024, to 180 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to count one of a three-count indictment. His co-defendant was sentenced on December 11, 2023, to 120 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to two counts of a three-count indictment. According to public court documents Diana Morales, 30, was a drug supplier to co-defendant Donavan Edward Belt, 25, who distributed methamphetamine in the Council Bluffs metropolitan area. In February 2023 law enforcement completed a controlled buy at the residence of Morales and Belt resulting in the seizure of 112.97 grams of actual methamphetamine. A subsequent search warrant resulted in the seizure of additional methamphetamine. Belt must serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. Morales must serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Southwest Iowa Narcotics Enforcement Task Force and the Council Bluffs Police Department investigated the case.


title: Colorado Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Possession with the Intent to Deliver Marijuana

body_text: COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Commerce City, Colorado man was sentenced on April 11, 2024, to 18 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Hong Dinh Nguyen, 42, was arrested in in Council Bluffs on April 22, 2023, following a traffic stop on Interstate 80. Nguyen’s vehicle had a strong odor of marijuana coming from the inside. Located in the trunk of his vehicle, in heat sealed bags, were 34,424 grams of marijuana. Nguyen stated that he agreed to transport and deliver the marijuana to another person in Minnesota and in return would be paid $6,300. After completing his term of imprisonment, Nguyen will be required to serve 3 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Division of Narcotics Enforcement of the Iowa Department of Public Safety and the Iowa State Patrol. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN .


title: Kidnappers Who Abducted 6-Year-Old to Peru Indicted

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — The grand jury today indicted Edwin Alonso Cuadros Bravo, 54, and Yulisa Alexsandra Guevara Wintong, 49, both formerly residing in Sacramento, charging them with interstate and international kidnapping and kidnapping conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, in November 2021, Cuadros Bravo and Guevara Wintong abducted their six-year-old grandchild from Sacramento and took the victim to Peru. Despite pleading from the mother, Cuadros Bravo and Guevara Wintong did not return the victim to the United States. Cuadros Bravo and Guevara Wintong were initially charged by criminal complaint in February 2022. In December 2022, the victim was returned to Sacramento as a result of government intervention. On April 10, 2024, Cuadros Bravo appeared for the first time in federal court in Sacramento. Cuadros Bravo was detained following his first appearance and he remains in custody. Guevara Wintong has not yet appeared to answer the charges against her. This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with assistance from the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Veronica M.A. Alegría is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Cuadros Bravo and Guevara Wintong face a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Protecting Migratory Birds is a Priority in the Southern District of Iowa

body_text: DES MOINES, Iowa – World Migratory Bird Day will be celebrated May 11, 2024, and again on October 12, 2024, aligning generally with migration patterns. The state of Iowa is located within the Mississippi Flyway, the longest overland flyway in North America. The Mississippi Flyway is a critically important route for migratory birds as they migrate north in spring and south in the fall, with the wetlands and forests along the Mississippi River being important for many species of migratory songbirds in particular. Waterfowl and other wetland birds also heavily use the wetlands in the central and northern Prairie Pothole Region of Iowa, which are essential for both migratory stopover habitat as well as breeding habitat for hundreds of species of birds. As Peter Rea, supervisory park ranger with DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge explains, “Refuges and wildlife areas throughout Iowa, such as DeSoto National Wildlife Refuge, provide critical habitat for migratory birds to rest, feed and recuperate on their long migration journeys. For many, these places act more like a rest stop as they continue their migration northward, while for some it's their ultimate destination for the spring and summer nesting season.” “During this time of year, it's important to minimize disturbance so other visitors can appreciate the tremendous diversity of birds that we can see throughout the state,” continued Rea. Federal law protects migratory birds. The Migratory Bird Treaty Act (MBTA) prohibits the taking (including killing, wounding, capturing, selling, trading, transporting, importing, and exporting) of protected migratory bird species without prior authorization of the Department of Interior U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 16 U.S.C. §§ 703, 707(a). The list of federally protected migratory birds is comprehensive and includes many of the birds residing in or migrating through Iowa, including Canada geese. Refer to the Federal Code of Regulations for more information . The penalties for violation of the Migratory Bird Treaty Act are a term of imprisonment of up to 6 months, a fine of up to $15,000, or both. Additional federal statutes that protect migratory birds include: The Lacey Act prohibits the importation, exportation, transportation, sale, receipt, acquisition, purchase, or inhumane transport of certain wildlife including birds. 16 U.S.C. § 42; The Endangered Species Act prohibits the taking, killing, wounding, importing, exporting, shipping, or sale of endangered species. 16 U.S.C. §§ 1538, 1540. Iowa’s birds on the endangered species list include the following: piping plover, rufa red knot, whooping crane, Indiana bat, and Northern long-eared bat. Learn more about protected species . The Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act prohibits the taking, killing, wounding, bald or golden eagles, their feathers, nests, and eggs. 16 U.S.C. § 668. “Birders and other wildlife enthusiasts can be helpful advocates in reducing wildlife crime. Knowing the laws that protect birds and other wildlife, and speaking up can make a big difference,” said Christopher Aldrich, Special Agent in Charge, Midwest Region, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. “Preservation and protection of wildlife and endangered species go hand in hand with the high quality of life here in the State of Iowa. Knowing these laws and reducing wildlife crime helps everyone continue to enjoy what makes Iowa a great place to live,” said Richard Westphal, United States Attorney. If you believe you have information related to a wildlife crime that violates federal law, please reach out to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service . You can also contact the United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Iowa by telephone at 515-473-9300 or email at usaias.fedbirds@usdoj.gov . If you spot an injured bird, state licensed wildlife rehabilitators can aid the bird. The Iowa Department of Natural Resources maintains a list of licensed wildlife rehabilitators at the following links: Iowa DNR licensed wildlife rehabilitators County-specific wildlife rehabilitation look-up for Iowa Thank you for caring about the wildlife in your community. Remember to observe wildlife from a safe distance. If a young animal isn’t visibly injured, its parents are likely nearby and still caring for it. Be sure to give young animals plenty of space to avoid spooking the parents. Learn more about what to do if you find a baby bird, injured or orphaned wildlife .


title: Companies pay $92,000 to settle allegations related to false statement in COVID-19 funding applications

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. – U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Buffalo Transportation Inc., Ontario Bus Inc., and several other businesses owned by Igor Finkelshtein, have agreed to pay $91,838 to resolve allegations arising under the False Claims Act. The defendants obtained grants and loans under the COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan program (EIDL), administered by the Small Business Administration, after submitting applications that falsely certified their eligibility to receive the grants and loans. Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Coriell, who handled the case, stated that applicants for EIDL funding are required to disclose the criminal history of owners of entities applying for funds. The government alleges that these defendants failed to disclose that Igor Finkelshtein had a prior felony conviction, and therefore the companies were ineligible to receive grants and loans through the COVID-19 EIDL program. “Emergency funding programs, including the COVID-19 EIDL program, were critical to helping businesses stay afloat during the pandemic,” stated U.S. Attorney Ross. “My office will continue to work towards holding accountable those who took advantage of the COVID-19 programs by obtaining funds that they were not eligible to receive.” “Providing fraudulent information to acquire access to federal relief funds is a theft of hard-earned taxpayer money,” said Matthew Miraglia, Special Agent-in-Charge of the FBI’s Buffalo Field Office. “The FBI remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to investigate and apprehend those who seek to personally profit and defraud government assistance programs.” The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Aidan Forsyth. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Forsyth v. Buffalo Transportation Inc., et al., 22-cv-846-JLS (W.D.N.Y.). Mr. Forsyth will receive a share of the settlement. The case was investigated jointly by the United States Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Buffalo Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the United States Secret Service, Buffalo Field Office, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey P. Burr, as well as with assistance from the SBA’s Office of General Counsel and Office of Inspector General. # # # #


title: Man Charged in $1.49 Million Scam Involving Bitcoin ATM Deposits and Bulk Gold Purchases; Victim is Retiree who Lost Life Savings

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY – April 18, 2024 SAN DIEGO – Xilin Sun made his first appearance in federal court today to face charges that he participated in a multinational fraud conspiracy that targeted a 70-year-old retiree from Carlsbad who was tricked into handing over $1.335 million. According to the complaint, the San Diego Elder Justice Task Force learned of the fraud scheme after the victim reported to Carlsbad police that she was duped over a period of months by fraudsters posing as government, bank and tech-support employees. Specifically, she said she was using her computer when a pop-up window appeared, advising her to call for help because her computer had been hacked. When she made the call, she was transferred through a series of co-conspirators pretending to work in tech support who told her to download software on her computer. She was also told her personal identifying and bank account information were compromised and was subsequently referred to co-conspirators posing as employees from her financial institutions. The victim was then told she needed to “secure” her assets. At the direction of someone posing as a bank employee, she deposited approximately $55,700 into Bitcoin ATMs located in North County San Diego. The complaint further describes how once the scammers discovered the victim had substantial savings, they convinced her she could safeguard her funds by obtaining gold bars and sending them to the U.S. treasury, which would create a locker under her name. Over the course of two months, the victim sent approximately $1,335,000 via three separate wire transfers to a precious metal business located in San Marcos, California. Once each of the wire transfers were completed, the victim was instructed to pick up the purchased precious metals—consisting of mostly gold—and to package them. The victim was then directed to hand the package over to an individual under the false pretense that it was being “secured” for safekeeping. In reality, the victim was scammed out of her life savings. According to the complaint, in February 2024, the scammers reached out to the victim yet again and instructed her to purchase $100,000 worth of additional gold. This time, however, the victim contacted the FBI, which set up a controlled delivery of a package made to look like it contained $100,000 in gold. The complaint described how the victim met with one of the conspirators outside a bank in Carlsbad. After handing the package to the conspirator, task force agents followed the first conspirator, who traveled approximately two miles before handing the package to a second conspirator, later identified as defendant Xilin Sun. Sun was stopped by the California Highway Patrol, the complaint said. In Sun’s vehicle, investigators located the fake gold package and the victim’s receipt. Agents also located additional evidence linking Sun to the victim, including photos of the fake gold the victim had sent to the conspirators over the phone, a copy of an invoice, and the receipt for the gold. “If you think you may have been scammed, report it immediately,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “These schemes are organized by sophisticated global networks with the ability to fool even the most savvy computer users. But if victims report quickly, we have a better chance of catching the scammers and retrieving stolen money.” “Thousands of people fall victim to elder fraud every year. Many do not report the fraud because they are embarrassed or afraid; however, the best course of action is to report scams as early as possible,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge John Kim. “The San Diego Elder Justice Task Force is dedicated to relentlessly pursuing criminals who prey on innocent individuals for personal gain.” This case was investigated by the San Diego Elder Justice Task Force and its member agencies, including the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, San Diego County District Attorney’s Office, Carlsbad Police Department, San Diego Police Department, and the California Highway Patrol. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is available through the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833 FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). You can also report fraud to any local law enforcement agency or on the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov. The FBI requests victims report: The name of the person or company that contacted you. Methods of communication used, including websites, emails, and telephone numbers. Any bank account number(s) to which you wired funds and the recipient name(s). The name and location of the metal dealer company and the account to which you wired funds, if you were instructed to buy precious metals. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin Mokhtari. DEFENDANT Case Number 24MJ1502-BLM Xilin Sun Age: 35 Ontario, California SUMMARY OF CHARGES Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1349 Criminal Forfeiture – Title 18, U.S.C., Sections 981(a)(1)(C), 982(a)(2)(A), and Title 28, U.S.C., Section 2461(c) Maximum Penalties: Thirty years in prison; $1 million fine AGENCIES Federal Bureau of Investigation San Diego Elder Justice Task Force Carlsbad Police Department California Highway Patrol San Diego County District Attorney’s Office San Diego 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.


title: St. Louis Man Sentenced to 150 Months in Prison for Gun Crime

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Clark on Thursday sentenced a man arrested by police after a shooting in 2023 to 150 months in prison.. Robert Eutz III, 44, pleaded guilty in January to one felony count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department officers stopped his car shortly after a March 30, 2023 shooting in the 3500 block of Lafayette Avenue. Officers found 10mm ammunition and spent casings in the car and a 10mm Glock handgun, 23.67 grams of raw fentanyl and 111 capsules containing fentanyl in a safe in the vehicle, Eutz’s plea agreement says. The shooting victim, who had been hit multiple times, identified Eutz as the shooter. Witnesses identified his vehicle. The casings from the shooting scene matched the gun and spent casings recovered from Eutz’s vehicle. As a convicted felon, Eutz is barred from possessing a firearm. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Szczucinski prosecuted the case.


title: Tioga County Man Sentenced to More Than 13 Years for Possessing Child Pornography

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – David P. VanHousen, age 54, formerly of Newark Valley, New York, was sentenced today to 160 months (13 years, 4 months) in federal prison for possession of child pornography, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Craig L. Tremaroli, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). As part of his prior guilty plea, VanHousen admitted that, while civilly committed at the Central New York Psychiatric Center in Marcy, New York following several sex offense and child pornography-related convictions, VanHousen possessed numerous images and videos of child pornography on a contraband cellular telephone. VanHousen was previously convicted in 2001 of Sexual Misconduct and Rape in the Third Degree in New York State court and Transportation of Child Pornography in federal court. United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby also sentenced VanHousen to serve a life term of supervised release following his release from prison, at which time VanHousen will also be required to register as a sex offender. This case was investigated by the FBI Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force, comprised of FBI Special Agents and Investigators of the New York State Police, Bureau of Criminal Investigation (NYSP-BCI). The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adrian S. LaRochelle and Jessica N. Carbone as a part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .