title: Milford Resident Charged In “Arrest Warrant” Scam After Co-Conspirator Unwittingly Texts Federal Agent

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: Public Urged to Beware of Rampant Financial Fraud Schemes GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Milford, Michigan resident Kari Melissa Morales, 51, was charged by a federal grand jury with participating in a fraud scheme that attempted to obtain $60,000 from a west Michigan resident in exchange for avoiding arrest and prosecution on a fake “FBI Warrant of Arrest” for a false allegation of “IRS tax fraud.” “Financial fraud is rampant,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “Fraudsters comes at us through our devices, in the mail, and at our doors. And they target some of our most vulnerable, especially senior citizens.” He continued: “Safety starts with awareness. Federal agencies like the IRS and FBI will never send anyone texts, emails, or other messages requesting or demanding money to dismiss an arrest warrant or criminal charges.” Morales was charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud, which is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. According to the indictment, in early April 2024, Morales drove to Grand Rapids to exchange a fake “IRS receipt” and fake “FBI WARRANT OF ARREST” for $60,000 in cash she was to obtain for a co-conspirator. Morales obtained the fake documents from a co-conspirator she met online and never met in person, who instructed Morales to print the documents and exchange them for cash she was to receive from the female named in the documents. Morales was told she could keep $2,500 of the cash. During the attempted exchange, Morales carried a loaded firearm in a holster in her waistband and brought a gold police badge that was issued to another person by a municipality in the State of Michigan. The investigation of the scheme began when a co-conspirator posing as the “IRS fraud department” sent a text message to a cell phone number that previously was assigned to a female resident of Kent County. The co-conspirator did not know that the targeted victim’s cell phone number had been reassigned to a federal law enforcement agent in Kent County, Michigan. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is dedicated to safeguarding all Americans from individuals who exploit innocent people through fraudulent and deceptive schemes,” said Inspector in Charge Rodney M. Hopkins of the Detroit Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service . “Today's indictment should send a clear message to anyone contemplating engaging in similar scams that the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, along with our law enforcement partners, is committed to holding these offenders accountable and ensuring they are brought to justice.” The Justice Department, FBI, and U.S. Postal Inspection Service recently announced the completion of “ The Money Mule Initiative ,” a national campaign to identify, disrupt, and criminally prosecute complex fraud schemes. These schemes often rely on “money mules” – people who receive fraudulent proceeds, retain a portion, and forward the remainder to a co-conspirator – to facilitate schemes that often originate overseas. Many “advance fee” fraud schemes target older Americans and use various false stories designed to manipulate victims to mail, wire, or hand money to “money mules” located in the United States. This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Michigan State Police. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Chris O’Connor. An indictment is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law. For more information on preventing elder fraud and help for victims, visit the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative website , which includes a list of Michigan-specific resources . The FBI Elder Fraud website also provides several resources, including the following tips to help seniors protect themselves: Recognize scam attempts and end all communication with the perpetrator. Search online for the contact information (name, email, phone number, addresses) and the proposed offer. Other people have likely posted information online about individuals and businesses trying to run scams. Resist the pressure to act quickly. Scammers create a sense of urgency to produce fear and lure victims into immediate action. Call the police immediately if you feel there is a danger to yourself or a loved one. Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, text messages, mailings, and door-to-door services offers. Never give or send any personally identifiable information, money, jewelry, gift cards, checks, or wire information to unverified people or businesses. Make sure all computer anti-virus and security software and malware protections are up to date. Use reputable anti-virus software and firewalls. Disconnect from the internet and shut down your device if you see a pop-up message or locked screen. Pop-ups are regularly used by perpetrators to spread malicious software. Enable pop-up blockers to avoid accidentally clicking on a pop-up. Be careful what you download. Never open an email attachment from someone you don't know, and be wary of email attachments forwarded to you. Take precautions to protect your identity if a criminal gains access to your device or account. Immediately contact your financial institutions to place protections on your accounts, and monitor your accounts and personal information for suspicious activity. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available. The Federal Trade Commission also provides a hotline at 877-FTC-HELP and a website at www.ftccomplaintassistant.gov to receive consumer complaints. ###


title: Felon Admits Illegally Possessing Gun Used in Bar Fight

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A convicted felon on Monday admitted illegally possessing firearms twice, including when he used one in a bar fight in Overland, Missouri. Kenneth Jordan, 63, of University City, Missouri, pleaded guilty to two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He admitted that on Feb. 22, 2023, he got into a fight over a pool game at a bar in Overland, Missouri. Jordan struck a bar patron in the head with a revolver before threatening him with the gun. Police identified Jordan as the attacker. During a search of his home on March 7, 2023, they found the revolver used in the assault as well as three shotguns. Jordan is a convicted felon and barred from possessing firearms. Jordan is scheduled to be sentenced August 14. The Overland Police Department and the St. Louis County Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nino Przulj is prosecuting 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: Nigerian Man Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for His Role in  $1.1 Million Business Email Compromise Scheme

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Victor Uzor, 36, a Nigerian national, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Kelley Brisbon Hodge to 48 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and more than $1 million in restitution for his role in a $1.1 million business email compromise scheme. On January 2, 2024, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. The scheme typically involved another member of the conspiracy pretending to be a legitimate vendor and emailing a false invoice to the victim organization. Uzor’s role in the offense was to open a series of bank accounts using the identity of real people, who had no connection to the crime. Another conspirator arranged for the victims to send money to the accounts opened by Uzor. Uzor then quickly withdrew these funds and moved them to other accounts before the scam could be discovered. In total, Uzor helped to steal approximately $1.1 million from the victim businesses and individuals, and unsuccessfully attempted to steal another $400,000. Among the scheme’s victims was a nonprofit provider of mental health care located in Doylestown, PA. “First, Victor Uzor victimized the people whose identities he stole to facilitate this scheme,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Then he helped prey upon the primary targets of the business email compromise, including a nonprofit organization in Bucks County dedicated to providing behavioral health care for the underprivileged and underserved — a safety net for those in need of care. In stealing from this provider, he shortchanged its employees, patients, and the community. My office is committed to holding accountable anyone involved in such a clear-cut case of fraud.” "The FBI works each and everyday to dismantle fraud schemes that affect our citizens," said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. "Alongside our partners, we will continue to bring to justice criminals who orchestrate these scams, and protect the hard-earned assets of our citizens." The case was investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. Livermore.


title: Members of Brooklyn-Based Hyena Crips Gang Charged with Multiple Murders and Racketeering Activity Spanning Nearly a Decade

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, a superseding indictment was partially unsealed variously charging seven members of the Brooklyn-based Hyena Crips gang with racketeering and using a firearm in the course of a murder in connection with three murders, murder conspiracies, robberies and identity-fraud schemes dating back to 2012. Three defendants were arrested this morning and are scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge James R. Cho. The four remaining defendants, who are in state and federal custody on other charges, will be arraigned at a later date. Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Ivan J. Arvelo, Special Agent-in-Charge, Homeland Security Investigations, New York (HSI), Edward A. Caban, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD), and Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent-in-Charge, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region (DOL-OIG), announced the arrests and superseding indictment. “For years, the Hyena Crips terrorized our community with brutal acts of violence—including murders, shootings and brazen armed-robberies—and funded their criminal activities through fraud schemes,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “The crimes alleged in today’s superseding indictment illustrate well the damage this gang has wrought on individuals, small businesses and the community at-large. This Office and its law enforcement partners are working tirelessly to dismantle violent criminal enterprises, take out their leadership and obtain justice for their victims. It is my hope that today’s indictment brings some measure of solace particularly to the families of Samuel Joseph, Leandre Mallinckrodt and Roodson Polynice who were senselessly murdered.” “As alleged, these defendants and the Hyena Crips gang at-large have for years inflicted unimaginable pain on the community and claimed the lives of innocent New Yorkers. While nothing can bring back Leandre Mallinckrodt, Samuel Joseph, and Roodson Polynice, HSI New York will never forget its commitment to seeking justice on behalf of victims, regardless of how much time has passed,” said Special Agent-in-Charge Arvelo. “HSI New York will not sit idly by as gangs terrorize the public. I commend our law enforcement partners, including the New York Police Department, for working together to eliminate violent criminal organizations and the fear they cause.” “The ‘Hyena lifestyle’ was one of wanton violence coupled with acute ineptitude, as the individuals charged today allegedly murdered innocent men they mistook for rival gang members,” stated NYPD Commissioner Caban. “The actions of this busy criminal network ranged from robbery to financial fraud, which, for too long, cast a pall over large swaths of our city. I highly commend all the investigators involved in this case, starting us toward a modicum of justice for the grieving families of those senselessly killed.” “An important part of the mission of the U.S Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 pandemic unemployment insurance programs. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate these types of allegations,” stated Jonathan Mellone, Special Agent-in-Charge, Northeast Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. As detailed in the government’s detention letter filed earlier today, the Hyena Crips set of the Crips street gang is a violent criminal enterprise operating in the East Flatbush section of Brooklyn. The gang engages in acts of violence, including murder, robbery and assault, and earns money through drug trafficking, bank fraud and access device fraud. Members of the gang refer to each other as “Hyenas,” “Heenz” or some variation of hyena, and use social media emojis depicting a bluish-purple face with horns and an animal resembling what appears to be a hyena, wolf or fox. Murder of Leandre Mallinckrodt On September 3, 2012, defendant Rick Jasmin and other members of the Hyena Crips were present at the annual West Indian Day Parade in Brooklyn. A fight broke out and Jasmin allegedly stabbed Leandre Mallinckrodt, who the defendant mistook for a rival gang member, in the neck. Mallinckrodt, who had been visiting from upstate New York and had no gang affiliation, died from the wound. Murder of Samuel Joseph On February 22, 2019, Martial H. Amilcar and a co-conspirator drove to 15-year-old Samuel Joseph’s apartment building and waited outside until Joseph’s teenage sister arrived at the building’s entrance. While Joseph’s sister prepared to enter the building, the victim was walking down an internal staircase towards the building’s exit. When Joseph’s sister opened the building door to enter, Amilcar walked into the building behind her, pulled out a gun and shot Joseph three times at close range, killing him. The shooting and events leading up to it were captured on security camera footage taken nearby. Amilcar and the co-conspirator allegedly killed Joseph in retaliation for an altercation earlier that day between Amilcar’s relative, a fellow gang member, and Joseph’s older brother, a rival gang member. Murder of Roodson Polynice In the summer of 2020, Hyena Crips leader Dave Augustin allegedly directed Richler Morette and Bradley Augustin to retaliate against a rival gang for the non-fatal shootings of two Hyena Crips leaders. On September 2, 2020, Bradley Augustin, Morette and others allegedly carried out the fatal shooting of Roodson Polynice. Polynice, like Mallincrodt, had no gang affiliation and was killed after he was wrongly identified by the defendants as a rival. Following the murder, Morette responded to a group Facebook messages about Polynice’s death in which he replied with three laughing-face emojis and stated, “[d]on’t care who got hit” and “pic [sic] a side or get killed with them Hyenalifestyle or no life.” COVID-19 Fraud Dave Augustin, Matthew Harris, Rick Jasmin, Wisny Joseph, and Richler Morette are charged with allegedly conspiring to commit identity fraud in connection with fraudulently obtaining unemployment benefits and loans issued by the Small Business Administration for relief during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dave Augustin, Harris, Joseph and Morette are also charged with money laundering conspiracy arising from their fraudulently opening bank accounts to conceal the source of ill-gotten gains obtained by members of the Hyena Crips. The superseding indictment also charges several defendants with the attempted armed robbery of a Caribbean Air check cashing businesses, the attempted robbery of a pharmacy and the non-fatal shooting of an individual following an argument during a dice game. The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Martial H. Amilcar, Bradley Augustin, Dave Augustin, Jasmin, and Morette face a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. Harris and Joseph face prison terms of up to 20 years. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Devon Lash, Jessica Weigel, Joshua Dugan and Andres Palacio are in charge of the prosecution. The case was initiated and investigated by Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Wenzel in the Long Island Division. The Defendants : MARTIAL H. AMILCAR (also known as “Drippy”) Age: 27 Brooklyn, New York BRADLEY AUGUSTIN (also known as “Cradley”) Age: 24 Brooklyn, New York DAVE AUGUSTIN (also known as “Juice”) Age: 38 Brooklyn, New York MATTHEW HARRIS (also known as “Kappy”) Age: 24 Brooklyn, New York RICK JASMIN (also known as “Jab”) Age: 31 Brooklyn, New York WISNY JOSEPH (also known as “Weezy”) Age: 32 Brooklyn, New York RICHLER MORETTE (also known as “Breezy”) Age: 29 Brooklyn, New York E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 23-CR-18 (S1) (AMD)


title: Long Island Man Sentenced to 42 Months' Imprisonment for $3 Million Bank Loan Scheme

body_text: Earlier today, in federal court in Central Islip, Gary Confredo, also known as “Gary Conte,” the former operator of Goldstar Financial Management Corp. (Goldstar), a financial services business based in Commack, New York, was sentenced by United States District Judge Joan M. Azrack to 42 months’ imprisonment for conspiring to commit bank fraud in connection with a scheme to defraud Bank of America of more than $3.2 million in loans and lines of credit that were obtained under false pretenses. The Court also ordered Confredo to pay $1,096,882 restitution to Bank of America. Confredo pleaded guilty to the charge in November 2022. Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Daniel B. Brubaker, Inspector-in-Charge, United States Postal Inspection Service, New York Division (USPIS), announced the sentence. “The defendant’s scheme of submitting fraudulent applications for commercial loans and lines of credit to Bank of America was full of lies and deception. With today’s sentence the defendant learns a powerful truth, that cheating financial institutions for personal gain will be punished and the cost is significant,” stated United States Attorney Peace. “As a financial consultant, Confredo was a trusted member of the financial industry. However, instead of acting ethically, he used his position to submit fraudulent loan applications on his clients’ behalf. Many of whom were complicit in this scheme. Driven by greed, Confredo and these co-conspirators caused Bank of America to lose millions of dollars in defaulted loans. These crimes have a far-reaching and long-lasting negative impact on the financial industry and the American public. Today’s sentencing bears truth to the fact that Postal Inspectors and our law enforcement partners will investigate and prosecute white collar criminals to the fullest extent of the law,” stated USPIS Inspector-in-Charge Brubaker. According to court filings and facts presented at the plea proceeding, between November 2016 and October 2019, Confredo conspired with others to submit fraudulent applications for commercial loans and lines of credit to Bank of America on behalf of Goldstar clients, who agreed to pay Confredo a portion of any loan that he secured on their behalf. To manipulate the application process, Confredo submitted altered tax returns and bank statements that falsely inflated the clients’ incomes and assets and allowed them to qualify for loans and lines of credit under Bank of America’s lending criteria. As a result of Confredo’s scheme, Bank of America issued approximately $3.2 million in loans and lines of credit to Goldstar’s clients and sustained losses of approximately $1 million when those loans and lines of credit were not repaid. In July 2022, Mr. Peace was selected as the Chairperson of the White Collar Fraud subcommittee for the Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC). As the leader of the subcommittee, Mr. Peace plays a key role in making recommendations to the AGAC to facilitate the prevention, investigation and prosecution of various financially motivated, non-violent crimes including mail and wire fraud, bank fraud, health care fraud, tax fraud, securities and commodities fraud, and identity theft. The government’s case is being handled by the Criminal Section of the Office’s Long Island Division. Assistant United States Attorney Bradley T. King is in charge of the prosecution with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Samantha Schroeder and Legal Assistant Danielle Casey. Assistant United States Attorney Madeline O’Connor is handling forfeiture matters. The Defendant : GARY CONFREDO (also known as “Gary Conte”) Age: 61 East Northport, New York E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 22-CR-425 (JMA)


title: U.S. Attorney's Office Observes National Police Week

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Eastern

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OK - In honor of National Police Week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11, through Friday, May 17, 2024. “As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.” “During National Police Week, we honor those who, through their courageous and selfless deeds, have been killed or disabled in the line of duty,” said United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson. “In doing so, we also recognize the dedication and sacrifice of law enforcement officers, past and present, for their loyal devotion and dedicated service securing the rights and safety of the public.” In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/ . To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org .


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Observes National Police Week

component: Department of Justice

body_text: FAIRVIEW HEIGHTS, Ill. – In observance of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Illinois recognize the service and sacrifice of local, state and federal law enforcement partners and pay tribute to the officers who have fallen in the line of duty. National Police Week is observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May, 17. “As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.” “In honor of National Police Week, we pay homage to the brave law enforcement officers who courageously lost their lives in sacrifice of their service to support the common good of our communities. Our fallen officers will forever be remembered for their valor, dedication and selflessness when placing themselves directly in harm’s way,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “This week and every week, we also recognize our partnership with our local, state and federal law enforcement partners who continue to respond to the call of duty and improve public safety throughout our region.” In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, during National Police Week , our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil.


title: Guernsey County man sentenced to 30 years in prison for recording sexually explicit videos of teenagers with hidden cameras

component: USAO - Ohio, Southern

body_text: COLUMBUS, Ohio – Mark A. Green, 56, of Senecaville, Ohio, was sentenced in U.S. District Court today to 360 months in prison for sexually exploiting minors and possessing child pornography. Green recorded minor victims using hidden cameras. According to court documents, in 2022, Green used security cameras that connected to his cell phone to surreptitiously record minors. He placed the hidden cameras in residential bathrooms and bedrooms to capture nude videos of the minors. Green either watched the recordings live or played them back later through the Blink security app. As part of this investigation, approximately 60 total devices were seized from Green’s home, vehicles and person. Green possessed more than 10,000 images and videos of child sexual abuse material. Within those images and videos recovered, law enforcement identified hundreds of additional hidden camera videos and images with time stamps dating back to 2012. The images and videos depicted minor females in bathrooms and bedrooms in a prior residence. The investigation revealed Green created sexually explicit videos of at least nine minor females. Two victims indicated that Green had also previously sexually abused them in person. Green was charged federally in May 2023. He pleaded guilty in January 2024 to two counts of exploiting a minor and one count of possessing child pornography. Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio; Shawn Gibson, Acting Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI); Circleville Acting Police Chief Kenny Fisher; Guernsey County Sheriff Jeffrey D. Paden; and Ohio State Highway Patrol Superintendent Col. Charles A. Jones announced the sentence imposed today by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah D. Morrison. Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Czerniejewski and Jennifer Rausch are representing the United States in this case. # # #


title: Springfield, Massachusetts Man Who Left Drug Trafficking for Barbering Sentenced to Probation

component: USAO - Vermont

body_text: Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on May 13, 2024, Christian Torres-Santiago, 21, of Springfield, Massachusetts, was sentenced by United States District Judge William K. Sessions III to two years of probation. Torres-Santiago previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base. According to court records, in October 2022, Torres-Santiago was present at a residence in Bennington, Vermont, when law enforcement executed a search warrant. Among other contraband and other items found in the residence, law enforcement found in Torres-Santiago’s possession over 2,000 bags of fentanyl/heroin packaged for sale, approximately 25 grams of cocaine base, $4,400 in cash, and a Colt .45 caliber handgun, fully loaded with its serial number obliterated. At sentencing, Judge Sessions emphasized the gravely serious nature of Torres-Santiago’s conduct and the danger it posed to the Bennington community. He also emphasized Torres-Santiago’s young age, his lack of any prior criminal history, and that since his arrest and release in the fall of 2022, Torres-Santiago has not only complied with all pretrial supervision conditions, but also studied for, and nearly completed the requirements to obtain, a barbering license in Connecticut. As Judge Sessions put it, he had “earned his freedom” by leaving the business of drug trafficking entirely and working hard to alter the direction of his life. The sentence of probation will require Torres-Santiago not to stray from this path, or, if he does, to face a resentencing on the full scope of his conduct. United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Bennington Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne Smith and Jonathan Ophardt. Lisa Shelkrot, Esq., represented Torres-Santiago. 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: York County Man Sentenced To Prison For Drug Trafficking Offenses

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Marcos Fernandez Rivera, age 27, of York, Pennsylvania, was sentenced yesterday to 30 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Judge Christopher C. Conner following his conviction for conspiring and attempting to traffic cocaine. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Rivera previously pleaded guilty to those crimes, which stemmed from, among other things, the seizure of a parcel that contained one kilogram of cocaine concealed inside of a boardgame box, the seizure of cash, and evidence obtained from cell phones revealing that Rivera was communicating with codefendant Gregory Ruiz Mercado about other packages. Judge Conner also ordered Rivera to pay a fine and special assessment, and to serve three years of supervised release after completing his prison sentence. Ruiz Mercado was sentenced on February 26, 2024, to 30 months’ imprisonment. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Pennsylvania State Police and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Johnny Baer and K. Wesley Mishoe. 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: Butte meth trafficker sentenced to more than seven years in prison

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

body_text: MISSOULA — A Butte man identified as a major drug supplier in an investigation was sentenced today to seven years and three months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, after he admitted to trafficking methamphetamine in the community, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. The defendant, Juan Jose Romero, 39, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute meth, in December 2023. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. In court documents the government allege that Romero was identified as a major drug supplier in Butte, and that a source told law enforcement about having purchased heroin from Romero while Romero was in the Butte Pre-Release Center. Agents contacted Romero at his apartment after they learned he had absconded from felony supervision. In a search of his residence, agents located a loaded .22 magazine, two cell phones and drug paraphernalia. In December 2022, law enforcement in Butte conducted a traffic stop on Romero and located 29 grams of meth, two firearms, drug paraphernalia and 14 suspected fentanyl pills in the vehicle. Romero admitted he was selling meth. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer S. Clark prosecuted the case. The Southwest Montana Drug Task Force, Montana Division of Criminal Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and FBI conducted the investigation. 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. XXX


title: Chinle Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Multiple Counts of Child Sex Abuse

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Kendall Anagal, 41, of Chinle, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge Diane J. Humetewa to life in prison for multiple counts of child sexual abuse. On February 9, 2024, a federal jury found Anagal guilty of three counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact of a Child. Anagal repeatedly and violently sexually abused a child who, at the time of the abuse, was between nine and 10 years old. The victim reported these offenses when she was 17 years old; she did not disclose them earlier because she feared for her life. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tracy Van Buskirk and Sharon K. Sexton, District of Arizona, Phoenix, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-22-8113-PCT-DJH RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-063_Anagal # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Indictment Charges Former D.C. Department of Human Services Official and Co-Conspirator with Extortion

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: WASHINGTON – Ruth Nivar, 56, and Yessica Moya, 35, both of Washington, D.C., were arrested this morning on charges related to extortion and conspiracy. The charges, filed in U.S. District Court in Washington, D.C., were announced today by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the FBI Washington Field Office’s Criminal and Cyber Division, and Daniel W. Lucas, Inspector General of the District of Columbia. According to the indictment, unsealed yesterday, Nivar, a former employee at the District of Columbia Department of Human Services, was charged with extorting payments from individuals applying for health care coverage from the D.C. government to process those benefits. Starting at least as early as November 2022, Nivar introduced Moya as a co-conspirator into her extortion scheme in an apparent attempt to disguise Nivar’s receipt of payment and information from law enforcement. If convicted, the defendants each face a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years in prison for committing Hobbs Act extortion and five years in prison for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act extortion. The maximum statutory sentence for federal offenses is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. The sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. This case is being investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the Office of the Inspector General of the District of Columbia. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Madhu Chugh, of the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. 24-cr-222_nivar_moya_indictment.pdf


title: Platte Woods Business Owner Sentenced for Failing to Pay Taxes

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Platte Woods, Mo., business owner was sentenced in federal court today for failing to pay more than $600,000 in federal income taxes over several years. Daniel Alan Ryan, 63, was sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge Jill A. Morris to one year in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Ryan to pay a $20,000 fine and to pay $626,012 in restitution, plus interest, to the IRS. Ryan is the owner of Ryan Roofing Systems, Inc., and Ryan Construction Systems, Inc. On Dec. 5, 2023, Ryan pleaded guilty to one count of failing to file a tax return. Ryan also admitted that he failed to file income tax returns and pay his personal income taxes over a period of many years. According to court documents, IRS investigators began questioning Ryan about his non-payment of taxes in early 2012. This investigation continued over the following years. After this criminal investigation became known to him, Ryan failed to file income tax returns from 2015 through 2017, resulting in a tax loss over those years of $138,385. Prior to these years, Ryan admitted that the tax loss from 2009 through 2013 totaled an additional $487,627, for a total amount of $626,012. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Daly. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.


title: U.S. Attorney Cunha Recognizes National Police Week

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE - In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha joins Attorney General Merrick Garland and his fellow U.S. Attorneys across the nation this week recognizing the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. “As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.” “It’s hard to overstate the contribution that police departments and police officers across Rhode Island make to keeping communities across the Ocean State safe and secure,” remarked U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. “Our partnerships with our state and local police colleagues are vital to our shared mission to do justice, and I salute all of the men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line in the course of this vital work, day in and day out.” In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. United States Attorney Cunha is attending events hosted by local and state law enforcement in multiple communities in honor of the brave women and men who have given their lives in the service of their community. On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/ . To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org . ###


title: Activity in the U.S. Attorney's Office

component: USAO - Wyoming

body_text: Firearm Offenses Jared Trent Dozier, 44, of Colorado, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, on Oct. 7, 2023, Dozier was arrested by the Wyoming Highway Patrol after fleeing from a traffic stop on Interstate 25 in Converse County, Wyoming. After a high-speed chase, Dozier’s vehicle was eventually stopped with the assistance of stop sticks and a tactical vehicle interception. During a search of the vehicle, troopers located narcotics, stolen mail, and a loaded Walther PK380 handgun in a holster next to the driver’s seat. Dozier pleaded guilty to the charge on Feb. 20 and U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on May 13. This crime was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Wyoming Highway Patrol, and Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paige Hammer. Drug Trafficking Amanda Christine Gray , 35, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, on Aug. 3, 2023, the Cheyenne Police Department witnessed Gray slumped over in the driver seat of her vehicle in a parking lot. Gray admitted to smoking fentanyl and was treated by medical professionals. A search of the vehicle uncovered a loaded .40 caliber Smith & Wesson pistol, 183 fentanyl pills, and $1,300 in cash. Gray pleaded guilty to the charges on Feb. 20 and Senior U.S. District Judge Nancy D. Freudenthal imposed the sentence on May 13. The crime was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney T.J. Forwood. About the United States Attorney’s Office The United States Attorney’s Office is responsible for representing the federal government in virtually all litigation involving the United States in the District of Wyoming, including all criminal prosecutions for violations of federal law, civil lawsuits brought by or against the government, and actions to collect judgments and restitution on behalf of victims and taxpayers. The Office is involved in several programs designed to make our communities safer. They include: Environmental Justice The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Project Safe Childhood Project Safe Childhood (PSC) is a DOJ initiative that combats the proliferation of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation crimes against children. The threat of sexual predators soliciting children for sexual contact is well-known and serious. Project Safe Neighborhoods Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a nationwide commitment to reducing gun and gang crime in America by networking existing local programs that target gun crime and providing these programs with additional tools necessary to be successful. Victim Witness Assistance The Victim Witness Coordinator for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming is dedicated to making sure that victims of federal crimes and their family members are treated with compassion, fairness, and respect. To report a federal crime, go to: https://www.justice.gov/actioncenter/report-crime#trafficking


title: U.S. Attorney Easley Recognizes National Police Week: Honoring the Dedication and Sacrifice of Law Enforcement Officers

component: Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS)

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – In honor of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley will recognize the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and Tribal law enforcement. This year, the week is observed from Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024. “As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.” “Every day across North Carolina, law enforcement officers put their lives on the line to protect our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “During National Police Week, we honor their courage and sacrifice. Because of you, Americans can live their lives driven by our highest hopes, dreams, and aspirations – and not our greatest fears. It is also critical to recognize our officers’ families, who support their loved one’s calling to build a safer community. We owe you all a debt of gratitude.” In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/. To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org.


title: U.S. ATTORNEY’S OFFICE RECOGNIZES POLICE WEEK

component: USAO - North Dakota

body_text: FARGO — In recognition of National Police Week, U.S. Attorney Mac Schneider and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of North Dakota joined with Department of Justice colleagues from across the country in honoring the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. The week will be observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024. “As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.” Schneider, who attended the North Dakota Peace Officer Memorial Service at the North Dakota Capitol last Thursday in the leadup to National Police Week, echoed the Attorney General’s comments. “Every day, our law enforcement partners put their lives on the line to keep people safe, uphold the rule of law, and ensure justice for victims,” Schneider said. “Last year was an especially difficult one for the law enforcement community in the District of North Dakota. As we recognize National Police Week, we hold the families and colleagues of Fargo Police Officer Jake Wallin and Mercer County Deputy Sheriff Paul Martin in our hearts. We will never forget them or what they did to protect our communities, and we will honor their legacy of service by supporting our partners as they work on the front lines of public safety.” In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/ . To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org . # # #


title: Brookland Man Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK—Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced today that a man who owned and operated an information technology business that provided services to various governmental entities has pleaded guilty to tax evasion. Ronnie Lyn Drummond, 52, of Brookland, entered this guilty plea earlier today before United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr. Judge Moody will sentence Drummond at a later date. Tax evasion is punishable by not more than five years’ imprisonment, not more than three years’ supervised release, and a fine of not more than $100,000. The investigation revealed that Drummond failed to timely file tax returns for the tax years of 2008 – 2012. When Drummond eventually filed returns for these years, his calculations reflected tax obligations, which Drummond failed to pay. Between 2014 and 2017, the defendant received gross receipts of $1,044,043.05, to include labor and materials. In an attempt to conceal his gross receipts, including income, from the Internal Revenue Service, the defendant cashed the majority of the checks he received. The tax loss, excluding interest and penalties, is $177,357.98. “Law-abiding U.S. citizens who responsibly file their tax returns each year and pay their taxes expect those who won’t, to be held accountable. Unlike the vast majority of his fellow citizens, Mr. Drummond chose to conceal income; to not file his tax returns for several years; and to fail to pay the amounts he knew were owed to the Internal Revenue Service,” said Ross. “As demonstrated by this case, failure to file taxes or evading paying the taxes you owe, can result in prosecution and a potential sentence in federal prison.” “Every U.S. Citizen has the common duty of paying their fair share of taxes, which in turn helps provide for the general welfare and the common defense of this great Nation,” said Christopher J. Altemus Jr., Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Dallas Field Office. “The women and men of IRS Criminal Investigation will continue to bring people to justice who blatantly disregard their civic duty and willfully break the law by evading their taxes. Mr. Drummond willfully chose not to pay his taxes, and in some cases, he chose not to file his tax returns with the IRS. Now he faces the possibility of jail time and the payment of restitution for taxes owed, plus interest and penalties.” Drummond was indicted on May 4, 2023, and charged with one count of tax evasion and one count of failure to file taxes. In exchange for his guilty plea to tax evasion, the remaining count was dismissed. The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service with assistance from the Housing and Urban Development Office of Inspector General. ### This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available on-line at https://www.justice.gov/edar X (formerly known as Twitter): @USAO_EDAR


title: U.S. Attorney's Office Recognizes National Police Week, May 11-17, 2024

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—In honor of National Police Week, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon recognizes the service and sacrifice of federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement. This year’s commemoration is observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024. “As our country recognizes National Police Week, the Justice Department joins families and communities in remembering the members of the law enforcement community who made the ultimate sacrifice protecting the public,” said Attorney General Merrick Garland. “Policing is difficult and dangerous, yet time and time again, law enforcement officers answer the call, showing up for their communities when they are needed the most. Their devotion to duty is matched only by that of their loved ones who make daily sacrifices to support them. The Justice Department is committed to doing everything in our power to help provide our law enforcement partners with the resources they need to carry out their noble work on behalf of the public.” “At the U.S. Attorney’s Office, we are inspired daily by the service and sacrifice of all our law enforcement partners. We offer our deepest gratitude to each and every one of our partners as well as their families and loved ones who make it possible for them to do the work they do,” said Natalie Wight, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which every year falls on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty and commitment to keeping our communities safe. On Monday, May 13, the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty in 2024 who have been added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/ . To learn more about National Police Week and the virtual candlelight vigil, please visit www.policeweek.org .


title: Minnesota Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Possession of Methamphetamine

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: SIOUX FALLS - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier has sentenced a Brooklyn Park, Minnesota, man convicted of Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute. The sentencing took place on May 6, 2024. Verran Burdunice, 60, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Burdunice was indicted for Possession of a Controlled Substance with Intent to Distribute by a federal grand jury in June of 2023. He pleaded guilty on February 21, 2024. On February 1, 2023, Burdunice met with someone who, unbeknownst to him, was working with law enforcement to conduct a controlled purchase of crack cocaine from him. Following that meeting, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of Burdunice’s vehicle in Brookings, South Dakota. A search of the car revealed approximately 212 grams of methamphetamine. This methamphetamine was later tested and found to be 100% pure. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Brookings Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Hodges prosecuted the case. Burdunice was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Montgomery Man Sentenced to 130 Months in Federal Prison for Patronizing a Commercial Act with a Minor

component: USAO - Alabama, Middle

body_text: Montgomery, Alabama – Today, United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross announced that a federal judge sentenced 45-year-old Jamecko Rontae Thomas, a resident of Montgomery, Alabama, to 130 months in prison. Thomas’s sentence follows his entering a guilty plea for sex trafficking of a minor. During the May 13, 2024, sentencing hearing, the judge also ordered that Thomas serve five years of supervised release following the prison term. Federal prisoners are not eligible for parole. According to his plea agreement and other court records, in July of 2021, Thomas went to a Montgomery hotel to engage in a commercial sex act with a female who was under the age of 18 at the time. A co-defendant arranged the encounter. When he pleaded guilty to sex trafficking of a minor, Thomas specifically admitted that the sex act occurred with a reckless disregard for the child’s age. Also pursuant to the plea agreement, Thomas admitted to both knowledge of past incidents of commercial sex acts arranged by his co-defendant and that he was aware of narcotics being used to induce sex trafficking victims. “Sex trafficking is a terrible crime—one that scars its victims for a lifetime,” said United States Attorney Ross. “This prosecution should send a clear message that my office will hold all individuals accountable for their participation in child sex trafficking and child exploitation, whether they are the traffickers or merely patrons.” 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 United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . The U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, and the Montgomery Police Department investigated this case, with Assistant United States Attorneys J. Patrick Lamb and Tara S. Ratz prosecuting.


title: Five Defendants Sentenced Following the Robberies of Two Cell Phone Stores in Montgomery, Alabama

body_text: Montgomery, Alabama – Today, United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross announced the sentencing of five individuals for their roles in robbing two cell phone stores at gunpoint. Two of the defendants also pleaded guilty to possessing fentanyl with intent to distribute. The following provides more detail about the various defendants convicted and the sentences imposed. On May 13, 2024, Devon Lemar Bledson, 29, received a sentence of 204 months in prison following his guilty plea to three charges: interference with interstate commerce by robbery, brandishing a firearm during a federal crime of violence, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. On April 16, 2024, 31-year-old Devontae Gentry, received a sentence of 240 months in prison following a guilty plea to committing interference with interstate commerce by robbery. On April 3, 2024, Antonio Lavasia Provo, 33, received a sentence of 72 months in prison after pleading guilty to interference with interstate commerce by robbery. On March 28, 2024, 19-year-old Jaylan Subry Bledson, received a 90-month sentence following a plea of guilty to committing interference with interstate commerce by robbery and brandishing a firearm during a federal crime of violence. On March 14, 2024, 29-year-old Staci Danielle Gilbert, received a prison sentence of 60 months for after pleading guilty to interference with interstate commerce by robbery and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. All defendants are residents of Montgomery, Alabama, with the exception of Devontae Gentry, who is from Chicago, Illinois. According to the plea agreements and other court records, on April 25, 2023, members of the group entered a cell phone store located on the Eastern Boulevard in Montgomery. One of the members pointed a gun at store employees and demanded to be taken to the store’s safe. After gaining access to the safe, the defendants took assorted electronic devices. The group repeated the same actions on May 18, 2023, this time at a cell phone store on Ann Street in Montgomery. Again, the defendants used a firearm to threaten store employees and gain access to the safe. After the Ann Street store robbery, law enforcement located the group as it was traveling on an interstate highway in Chilton County. Responding officers were able to stop the defendants’ vehicle after a brief pursuit. The officers identified Devon Bledson as the driver. They found three other group members in the vehicle: Staci Gilbert, Jaylan Bledson, and Devontae Gentry. When law enforcement searched the vehicle, they also found firearms and pills containing fentanyl. Further investigation revealed Antonio Provo’s involvement in the robberies. “Combatting violent crime is a top priority for this office,” said United States Attorney Ross. “The use of firearms to commit crimes shows a complete disregard for the safety and well-being of community members. This case is yet another example of the good work that results from law enforcement agencies coming together to bring to justice violent individuals. I am grateful for the responding officers and deputies who put their lives on the line, as well as the investigators and agents who gathered the evidence needed for prosecution. Because of their efforts, these five defendants received the significant sentences imposed.” “The sentences imposed on these defendants should send a strong message to anyone contemplating other violent criminal acts,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Paul W. Brown with the Mobile, Alabama Field Office. “Those who work and live in Montgomery deserve to feel safe and secure in their community. The successful investigation and prosecution of these defendants was achieved due to the strong partnerships between the FBI, Montgomery Police Department, Clanton Police Department, Chilton County Sheriff’s Office, Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, and the United States Attorney’s Office.” This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce 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 . The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Montgomery Police Department, the Clanton Police Department, the Chilton County Sheriff’s Office, and the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency conducted this investigation, and Assistant United States Attorney Brandon W. Bates prosecuted the case.


title: Three Houston County, Alabama Residents Sentenced for Kidnapping

body_text: Montgomery, Alabama – Today, United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross announced that a federal judge in Montgomery, Alabama, sentenced three defendants for kidnapping a minor and transporting her from Alabama to Florida. On May 14, 2024, 20-year-old Molly Michele Jarrett received a sentence of 104 months in prison, 24-year-old Coby Jerome Jordan received a 92-month sentence, and Destiny Star Lewis, also 24-years-old, received a sentence of 70 months in prison. There is no parole in the federal system. According to the plea agreements and other court records, late in the evening on November 4, 2022, Jarrett, Jordan, and Lewis picked up their victim from her residence in Dale County, Alabama. They did so under seemingly sociable circumstances. After driving around in rural parts of the Wiregrass area, they made a stop at Jordan’s and Jarrett’s residence in Pansey, Alabama. Eventually, the four decided to go for another drive in the rural parts of the area and stopped at an abandoned structure in Jackson County, Florida. Jordan forced the victim out of the vehicle and began beating her. Jarrett encouraged her to do so. Eventually, Jarrett directed Jordan to restrain the victim. Jordan used zip ties and duct tape to secure the victim’s ankles and wrists. Lewis assisted Jordan by retrieving those items from inside the vehicle. The victim was then loaded back into the vehicle and driven to a secluded area, placed near a tree, and concealed with brush. Jarrett, Jordan, and Lewis returned to Alabama. The victim eventually freed her feet from their bonds and made it to a nearby residence where she was provided with assistance. Earlier this year, Jarrett, Jordan, and Lewis each pleaded guilty to federal kidnapping charges. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Houston County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jackson County, Florida Sheriff’s Office investigated this case, which Assistant United States Attorney Brandon W. Bates prosecuted.


title: Lawton Sex Offender Sentenced to 35 Years in Prison for Committing Child Sexual Crimes

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: A child predator and sex offender from Lawton was sentenced today for Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Coercion and Enticement of a Minor; Production of Child Pornography; and two counts of Tampering with a Witness by Corrupt Persuasion, announced U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. U.S. District Judge John F. Heil, III, sentenced Justin Eli Muncy, 47, to 420 months imprisonment, followed by lifetime supervised release. Upon his release, Muncy will also be required to register as a sex offender. “Justin Muncy is a predator who was using cell phone applications to find children,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “The Department of Justice is committed to the safety and well-being of our children. The DOJ partners with programs like Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force to help educate the public on tools and techniques to help fight against predators.” State Court records show that in 2015 Muncy was convicted of Lewd or Indecent Proposals to [a] Child Under 16 and Enticing a Child Under 16 into a Secluded Place. Muncy was sentenced to a 15-year suspended sentence and required to register as a sex offender. In 2019, Muncy was then convicted of Failing to Register as a Sex Offender in State Court. In that case, he was sentenced to one year imprisonment. Muncy served three months and the remaining nine months were suspended. Then in January of 2022, Muncy began contacting a person he believed was 14 years old to engage in sexual activity. The 14-year-old was an undercover Tulsa County Sheriff Deputy. Muncy sent several photos of his penis and requested nude photos in return. After being arrested in 2022, the investigation revealed that Muncy persuaded and coerced a second child victim who had not attained the age of 16 years, to produce and share sexually explicit images. While in jail, Muncy directed another person to file false police reports and to hide his cell phone in hopes of misleading investigators. Muncy is a citizen of the Comanche Nation and he will remain in custody pending transfer to the U.S. Bureau of Prisons. The Homeland Security Investigations, the Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, and the Comanche County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Robert and Leah Paisner prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page . For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page . For more information about Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, please visit their website .


title: Wyatt Detention Center Correctional Officer Admits to Attempting to Smuggle Contraband into the Facility

body_text: PROVIDENCE, RI – A Donald W. Wyatt Detention Facility correctional officer has pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of attempting to provide contraband in prison, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. Kristopher White, 26, admitted to a federal judge that in December 2021, while on duty at the Wyatt facility, he attempted to deliver papers soaked with MDMB-4en-PINACA, a Schedule 1 controlled substance. According to information presented to the court, an inmate’s text messages and telephone calls were monitored by a Wyatt Detention Center staff member that revealed that the inmate was working with individuals outside the Wyatt to bring controlled substances into the facility. White was approached by the detainee and ultimately agreed to participate and smuggle contraband into the facility. He met with an associate of White’s to obtain the drug soaked papers. On December 2, 2021, while on duty at Wyatt, White left the facility and went to his vehicle in the facility parking lot, removed the MDMB-4en-PINACA-soaked papers from his vehicle, and returned to the facility to deliver them to the detainee. White was intercepted and escorted to the Wyatt Professional Standards Unit. White is scheduled to be sentenced on August 15, 2024. The defendant’s sentence will be determined by a federal district judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White. ###


title: Minneapolis Man Charged with Sexually Abusing Victim at Fort Irwin Training Center in San Bernardino County

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A Minnesota man was arraigned today on a two-count indictment charging him with sexually assaulting a subordinate at the United States Army Fort Irwin National Training Center in San Bernardino County. Kelly Boylan, 54, of Minneapolis, is charged with one count of sexual abuse without consent and one count of abusive sexual contact. He pleaded not guilty to both charges and a jury trial was scheduled for July 8 in front of United States District Judge Wesley L. Hsu. Boylan was ordered released on $25,000 bond. According to the indictment that a federal grand jury returned on April 16, Boylan in July 2020 knowingly engaged in a sexual act with the victim without her consent. Boylan allegedly did so by attempting to insert, and by inserting, his penis into the victim’s vagina. Boylan allegedly also knowingly engaged in sexual contact with the victim without the victim’s permission, by intentionally touching, through direct contact, the victim’s genitalia and groin, with the intent to abuse, humiliate, harass, and degrade her, and to arouse and gratify Boylan’s sexual desire. An indictment is merely an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. If convicted of both charges, Boylan would face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison. The FBI is investigating this matter. The United States Army Criminal Investigation Division provided assistance. Assistant United States Attorney Lisa J. Lindhorst of the General Crimes Section is prosecuting this case.


title: Former Boone County Man Indicted for Child Pornography

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A former Boone County, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for using a 9-year-old victim to produce child pornography. Emrah Eymez, 38, who currently resides in Lafayette, Indiana, was charged in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City, Mo. Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Eymez on April 17, 2024. The federal indictment alleges that Eymez used a child under the age of 12 to produce child pornography from March 11 through April 2, 2024. Eymez is also charged with one count of receiving child pornography and one count of transferring obscene material to a minor under the age of 16. According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, the mother of the 9-year-old victim contacted law enforcement to report the extensive cell phone communication between Eymez and her daughter. The mother reported approximately 1,851 text messages, the affidavit says, including the exchange of nude images and a sexually explicit video the child sent to Eymez. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley S. Turner. It was investigated by the Boone County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department and the FBI. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."


title: Former Camden County Sheriff’s Deputy Indicted on Additional Child Pornography Charges

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A former Camden County, Mo., sheriff’s deputy and school resource officer, previously charged with distributing child pornography, was indicted by a federal grand jury today on additional related charges. Darrin Marshall Skinner, 49, was charged in a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City. Today’s indictment replaces a criminal complaint that was filed against Skinner on Thursday, May 9, and includes additional charges. Skinner was employed by Camden County as a deputy sheriff and assigned as a school resource officer in the Macks Creek School District. Prior to being hired by Camden County, he worked as a police officer in Osage Beach, Mo. Today’s indictment contains the original charge of distributing child pornography. The indictment additionally charges Skinner with one count of receiving child pornography and one count of possessing child pornography. According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, the investigation began when the social media network MeWe reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Cyber Tip Line that a user, later identified as Skinner, had uploaded images of child pornography. On June 7, 2023, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children sent the report to the Camden County Sheriff’s Department. Due to Skinner’s connection to the department, the case was taken over by the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Investigators learned the email address allegedly used by Skinner was a member of several sexually themed social groups. On Aug. 1, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant and interviewed Skinner at his residence. Investigators learned that MeWe had made a prior report to the Cyber Tip Line in 2020 related to a user identified as Skinner allegedly uploading multiple images of child sexual abuse through the application’s chat feature. Skinner allegedly sent child sexual abuse material on multiple occasions, including images of children under the age of 12 and a pre-school age child. Skinner also shared a number of photos of prepubescent girls identified as being from the community with other users of the MeWe platform, the affidavit says. He cropped and adjusted these images to be more sexually suggestive. No local minors were contained in the images of child pornography. It is believed Skinner obtained some of these photos of local minors from social media since they were in gymnastics or dance clothes associated with a local gymnastics studio. The images were exchanged as part of sexually charged chats between Skinner and other MeWe users. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa A. Pierce. It was investigated by the Missouri State Highway Patrol Digital Forensic Investigative Unit and the Missouri State Technical Assistance Team. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."


title: Sex offender sentenced to 50 years in prison for sexually exploiting minors using Facebook

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: McALLEN, Texas – A 35-year-old Virginia resident has been sentenced for the sexual exploitation of children in the McAllen area, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Michael Tienping Tang pleaded guilty May 22, 2019. Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Tang to serve 600 months in federal prison. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence including how victims of these schemes frequently feel deep fear and shame and often delay in reporting the conduct. In this case, however, Judge Crane heard how two minor victims ultimately came forward and exposed Tang’s crimes. The court handed down the prison term, noting Tang’s prior sex convictions and the fact that Tang committed this current scheme while under supervision for those prior cases. In addition, the court noted Tang’s use of social media to stalk his victims, their friends and family, as well as Tang’s use of multiple accounts to coerce over 50 victims into engaging in sexually explicit acts at his request. Tang will serve the rest of his life on supervised release following completion of his prison term. During that time, he will be required to comply with numerous requirements designed to restrict his access to children and the internet. Tang will also be ordered to register as a sex offender. “Tang, a child predator, weaponized Facebook to serve his sick and depraved desires,” said Hamdani. “He used the common social media app to target, exploit and extort our most precious and vulnerable asset, our children. Today’s sentence shrinks Tang’s social circle shaped by the vastness of an online world to the restrictive confines of a federal penitentiary.” “The abuse and exploitation of children is deeply cruel and violates the trust and safety of the victims. It generates trauma that may not heal. We hope today’s sentence provides some measure of justice to those he harmed,” said Special Agent in Charge Craig S. Larrabee, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) San Antonio. “Fortunately, he will spend the next 50 years in prison where he cannot harm another child. We will seek the same lengthy sentence for anyone who seeks to take advantage of children in our communities.” The investigation revealed Tang utilized Facebook to coerce and entice minor children to produce child pornography. Tang’s requests frequently included bestiality and would demand minor victims with younger siblings to produce images and videos engaging in sexually explicit conduct with their younger siblings. The investigation began in May 2017 when authorities learned about the possible online sexual exploitation of two minor victim students within a local school district. Law enforcement discovered Tang coerced them into producing and sending images and videos depicting themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct to his Facebook profile. When the victims blocked Tang on Facebook, he created new accounts, communicated and interacted with the victim’s Facebook friends and contacts and regained access to them. After regaining access, Tang coerced both victims to engage in a list of sexual activities by threatening to disseminate their images and videos. A federal search warrant of Tang’s Facebook account revealed over 50 potential minor victims who had sent and/or received child pornography. Authorities identified a third minor victim who Tang coerced to produce and send images and videos depicting themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Tang further coerced this minor victim to produce a video using a younger fourth victim’s hand for sexually explicit conduct. When the minor victim did not meet Tang’s deadline to produce an additional video engaging in oral sex with the younger minor victim, Tang distributed the minor victim’s video. Tang was previously convicted in 2012 of two separate child exploitation offenses including attempted indecent liberties with a child and two counts of possession of child pornography in Virginia. Tang will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. HSI Rio Grande Valley Child Exploitation Investigations Task Force conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Sturgis and Alexa D. Parcell prosecuted the case, which was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative the Department of Justice (DOJ) launched in May 2006 to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section leads PSC, which marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children and identifies and rescues victims. For more information about PSC, please visit DOJ’s PSC page . For more information about internet safety education, please visit the resources tab on that page .


title: Joplin Man Indicted for Producing Child Pornography

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Joplin, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for victimizing two children to produce child pornography. Russell Myers, 44, was charged in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield, Mo. Today’s indictment charges Myers with two counts of using minor victims, identified in court documents as “Jane Doe” and “John Doe,” to produce child pornography from Jan. 1 to Feb. 20, 2024. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, the Jasper County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the Joplin, Mo., Police Department. Project Safe Childhood This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."


title: Johnstown Woman Indicted on Methamphetamine Violation

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – A resident of Johnstown, Pennsylvania, has been indicted by a federal grand jury in Johnstown on a charge of violating a federal narcotics law, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. The one-count Indictment named Jasmine Hinton, 29, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, on or about February 14, 2024, Hinton possessed with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. The law provides for a total sentence of not less than five years and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 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 Attorney Michael L. Mitchell is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment. An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty


title: Minneapolis Felon Sentenced to Over Nine Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of Firearms and Facilitating Drug Trafficking

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has been sentenced to 117 months in prison for the illegal possession of two firearms, and for using one of them in furtherance of drug trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, on January 11, 2020, law enforcement officers observed a vehicle traveling at a high rate of speed on I-394 in Golden Valley, Minnesota. When police attempted to stop the vehicle, the driver, Dejavareah Marquise Brown, 26, fled from police at over 100 mph, jumped a median, went airborne, and shredded the front tire of the vehicle. Officers twice attempted to stop the vehicle with a PIT maneuver and ultimately disabled the vehicle, at which time Brown fled on foot across the highway. Police found Brown hiding behind a brick pillar at a nearby store and detected a strong odor of alcohol emanating from him. During a subsequent search of the vehicle, officers recovered a 9mm pistol with an extended high-capacity magazine loaded with 31 rounds and an additional 15 rounds of .380-caliber ammunition hidden in the trunk. In March 2022, law enforcement received information that Brown was selling narcotics from his Minneapolis apartment and executed a search warrant. During the search, officers discovered a loaded .45-caliber pistol, a box of ammunition, 3500 M30 fentanyl pills, over 18 pounds of marijuana, over $650 cash, and miscellaneous drug paraphernalia inside the apartment. Because Brown has a prior felony conviction, he is prohibited from lawfully possessing firearms or ammunition at any time. On January 16, 2024, Brown pleaded guilty to two felon-in-possession counts, and to one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. He was sentenced today in U.S. District Court by Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Hennepin County Violent Offender Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Golden Valley Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin Bejar prosecuted the case.


title: Springfield, Willard Residents Indicted in Cocaine Conspiracy

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Three southwest Missouri residents are among five defendants indicted for their roles in a drug-trafficking conspiracy after federal agents seized 16 kilograms of cocaine while arresting two co-defendants in Texas. Mario Jose Castillo, 55, of Springfield, Mo.; Christhian Eduardo Cruz-Pineda, 22, a citizen of Honduras residing in Springfield; Johnathan David Emerson, 47, a resident of Willard, Mo.; and Bryan Ramirez-Aguero, 33, a citizen of Honduras, and Erika Martinez Hernandez, 40, a citizen of Mexico, both residing in Grand Prairie, Texas, were charged in a 10-count superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Today’s superseding indictment replaces an indictment returned on April 10, 2024. Today’s superseding indictment contains the same or similar charges as the original indictment, but increases the amount of cocaine allegedly distributed in the drug-trafficking conspiracy and lengthens the timeframe of the conspiracy to incorporate an additional drug seizure. Federal agents arrested Ramirez-Aguero and Martinez Hernandez on April 11, 2024. At the time of their arrest for the original indictment, agents seized approximately 16 kilograms of cocaine and $145,123 from their residence. Today’s superseding indictment reflects that drug seizure. The federal indictment alleges that all five of the defendants participated in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine from Dec. 12, 2021, to April 11, 2024. In addition to the drug-trafficking conspiracy, Castillo is charged with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm, one count of possessing cocaine with the intent to distribute, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. Castillo, Emerson and Martinez Hernandez are charged together in one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. Castillo and Martinez Hernandez are charged together in one count of unlawfully using a telephone to facilitate the drug-trafficking conspiracy. Castillo and Emerson are charged together in one count of money laundering. Emerson and Cruz-Pineda are charged together in one count of possessing 500 grams or more of cocaine with the intent to distribute. Cruz-Pineda is charged with one count of being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Eatmon. It was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Springfield, Mo., Police Department, and the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department. Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.


title: United States Attorney Recognizes National Police Week

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. — In honor of National Police Week, Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, recognized the service and sacrifice of federal, state, and local law enforcement. National Police Week is observed Saturday, May 11 through Friday, May 17, 2024. “Committing to serve the community is just the first of many sacrifices that members of law enforcement make when they enter into public service,” said U.S. Attorney Shier. “The work that follows is demanding, persistent, and hazardous. But this work is essential to making our communities safer. It is patrolling our streets, responding to calls for help, and assisting others despite those dangers. National Police Week reminds us to collectively reflect on the sacrifices of members of law enforcement and their families, and provides an opportunity to show our sincere appreciation for their essential service to us all.” In 1962, President Kennedy issued the first proclamation for Peace Officers Memorial Day and National Police Week to remember and honor law enforcement officers for their service and sacrifices. Peace Officers Memorial Day, which falls every year on May 15, specifically honors law enforcement officers killed or disabled in the line of duty. Each year, during National Police Week, our nation celebrates the contributions of law enforcement from around the country, recognizing their hard work, dedication, loyalty, and commitment to keeping our communities safe. This year, in Washington, D.C., the names of more than 280 officers killed in the line of duty were added to the wall at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial and were read during a Candlelight Vigil. To view a recording of the livestream of this event, visit https://nleomf.org/memorial/programs/national-police-week-2024/candlelight-vigil/ . To learn more about National Police Week, please visit www.policeweek.org . – END –