title: Activity in the United States Attorney's Office

component: USAO - Wyoming

body_text: Failure to Register as a Sex Offender Kyeren Dillon Tillman, age 32, of Lander, Wyoming, was sentenced on August 8, 2023, to 13 months’ imprisonment for failure to register as a sex offender. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence which included five years of supervised release. The special assessment in this matter was remitted by the Court. According to court documents, Tillman is a convicted sex offender who had not checked in with the Wind River Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA) office since July 2022. The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshal Service with assistance from the Wind River SORNA office, and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy W. Gist. Case No. 22-CR-00139-ABJ Child Pornography Nathan Lucas Heibeck , age 26, of Rawlins, Wyoming, was sentenced on August 10, 2023, to 38 months’ imprisonment for possession of child pornography. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence which included five years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment and $48,000 in restitution. According to court documents, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation (DCI) initiated a peer-to-peer investigation of the defendant sharing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) via the BitTorrent network. A search warrant was executed on Heibeck’s residence and an analysis of the evidence seized identified over 50 videos and over 2,200 images of CSAM on the defendant’s devices. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold. Case No. 22-CR-00144-SWS Tyelure Schroeder , age 33, of Fort Bridger, Wyoming, was sentenced on August 11, 2023, to 120 months’ imprisonment for possession of child pornography, second or subsequent conviction. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence which included 10 years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment and $36,000 in restitution. According to court documents, on August 9, 2022, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, received a Cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) indicating that an individual had uploaded 42 files of apparent child pornography to their Google account. Agents were able to track the account and determine it belonged to Schroeder and confirmed the account contained child pornography. Pursuant to a search warrant, agents later seized a laptop belonging to the defendant which contained approximately 1,000 images and numerous videos of child pornography. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Z. Seth Griswold. Case No. 23-CR-00006


title: Mount Carmel Man Indicted for Trafficking Methamphetamine, Fentanyl, and Heroin

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT- The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced today that Charles Derr, age 47, of Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania, was charged by a federal grand jury with drug trafficking, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin. The case was unsealed following Derr’s arrest. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment charges Derr with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin on June 17, 2021. The indictment also seeks the criminal forfeiture of $10,754 in cash recovered the same day. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Pennsylvania State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alisan V. Martin is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of a district wide initiative to combat the nationwide epidemic regarding the use and distribution of heroin. Led by the United States Attorney’s Office, the Heroin Initiative targets heroin traffickers operating in the Middle District of Pennsylvania and is part of a coordinated effort among federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who commit heroin related offenses. The maximum penalty under federal law for each of these offenses is 20 years’ imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court.


title: Marion County Man Charged With Impersonating A Deputy United States Marshal

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Derry Wayne Lambert (52, Belleview) with false impersonation of a federal officer. If convicted, Lambert faces a maximum penalty of 3 years in federal prison. According to court documents, on July 31, 2023, a deputy from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office stopped Lambert who was driving his personally owned truck. The truck had no agency insignia, but was equipped with red and blue flashing lights, a Public Address (PA) system, and an audible siren. A firearm was later recovered from the vehicle’s center console. Lambert, who was wearing a hat with the phrase “Police U. S Marshal,” explained to the deputy that he was with the United States Marshals Service and was investigating gang activity in Marion Oaks. Lambert also presented a false United States Marshals Service badge. A record check showed that Lambert was not a federal law enforcement officer. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.


title: Mexican National Pleads Guilty To Attempting To Entice A 14-Year-Old Over The Internet

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Pedro Hernandez Ortiz (38, Mexico) has pleaded guilty to attempted online enticement of a minor. Ortiz faces a minimum mandatory penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not been set. According to court documents, in August 2022, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office conducted an undercover operation for the purpose of identifying and apprehending individuals using the internet to exploit juveniles for sexual activity. As part of the operation, an FDLE agent created an undercover profile on the forum of a 14-year-old female named “Haley.” Ortiz soon messaged “Haley” and suggested that they meet to have sex. When “Haley” expressed concern about getting pregnant, Ortiz promised to use a condom. “Haley” eventually told Ortiz that she would sneak out of her house to meet him at a location in Lake County. When Ortiz arrived at the planned location, he was arrested and subsequently admitted to chatting with “Haley” and knowing that she was only 14 years old. He also confessed to traveling to meet “Haley” for the specific purpose of having sex with her. This case was investigated by the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. 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 United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Citrus County Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty To Possessing Multiple Firearms

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Timothy James Roberts (28, Hernando) has pleaded guilty to possessing an unregistered National Firearms Act (NFA) weapon—a short-barreled shotgun—and two counts of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Roberts faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison on the possession of an unregistered NFA weapon count, and up to 15 years for each count of possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to court documents, Roberts twice was in possession of firearms in Citrus County. On August 7, 2022, law enforcement stopped Roberts in a stolen vehicle and found him in possession of a short-barreled shotgun not registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Subsequently, on August 31, 2022, Roberts was again stopped by law enforcement for multiple traffic infractions. A search of his backpack revealed a pistol and a revolver. Roberts has four prior felony convictions for grand theft in state court. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. This case was investigated by the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Former City of Miami Aide Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Child Pornography Crime

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – Today, Rene Pedrosa, 51, was sentenced in federal court to six years in prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for receiving child pornography in 2019 from a 16-year-old boy. In November 2019, Pedrosa connected with the boy on social media. Pedrosa, who at the time worked as an aide to the City of Miami mayor, communicated with the boy on social media and in person about a website design job for Pedrosa’s boss. One meeting took place at Miami City Hall on November 25, 2019. Pedrosa admitted that during the meeting, he kissed and sexually touched the boy, who had been dropped off at City Hall for a website design follow-up meeting by his mother. Pedrosa also admitted that he continued communicating with the boy through an internet-based messaging application and that on December 22, 2019, Pedrosa knowingly received sexually explicit images of the boy. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, announced the sentence imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Robert N. Scola. FBI Miami investigated the case, with assistance from Miami Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Kahn Obenauf prosecuted it. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), 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 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 the Project Safe Childhood initiative and for information regarding Internet safety, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 21-cr-20259. ###


title: Chester Man Pleads Guilty to $1.9 Million Embezzlement Scheme

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – A Chester man pleaded guilty today to mail fraud for embezzling over $1.9 million from his employer. According to court documents, between 2015 and 2023, Bahram Khosropanah, 65, devised and repeatedly executed a scheme to misappropriate technology assets from his employer for his own personal gain. Khosropanah held senior positions at a Richmond-based company that operates convenience stores across the country. His role focused on information technology, and he was responsible for purchasing computers and other electronics for the company. Upon receiving invoices for certain purchases, Khosropanah made unauthorized material modifications to the invoices before submitting them to his accounting department for approval. Through these modifications, Khosropanah was able to misappropriate computers and electronics and conceal his misappropriations. He then sold the misappropriated assets on eBay and to a third-party wholesaler without the knowledge or consent of his employer. The defendant sold approximately 850 laptops and other electronics, causing a loss of over $1.9 million to his employer. Khosropanah used the proceeds from the fraudulent sales to purchase luxury cars, including a Ferrari. Khosropanah is scheduled to be sentenced on November 2. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Stanley M. Meador, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Summer L. Speight accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Day and Kashan K. Pathan are prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-95.


title: Ashland Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Distribution and Possession of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: ASHLAND, Ky. — An Ashland man, Adam Fonso Childers, 71, was sentenced on Monday to 20 years in prison by U.S. District Judge David Bunning for distributing and possessing child pornography. The evidence presented at trial established that, between October 5-6, 2020, Childers was found to have distributed multiple files of child pornography, using a peer-to-peer file sharing network. A search warrant was then obtained and revealed that, over a period of decades, Childers had acquired multiple forms of media found to contain child pornography. This media included magazines he acquired in the 1970s, binders of printed materials, multiple disks, seven external hard drives, and a desktop computer. In total, Childers possessed hundreds of thousands of images and videos of child pornography, that included depictions of minors under the age of 12 engaged in sexually explicit activity. He was also identified as being one of the top ten individuals for sharing child pornography in Kentucky, via this particular file sharing program. A federal jury sitting in Ashland convicted Childers in January 2023. “This case involved an enormous amount of child sexual abuse material, collected over many years, and involved countless victims,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “Protecting our children from this despicable sexual abuse is a core priority for our office and is essential to the safety of our communities. I want to commend our law enforcement partners, whose dedicated and difficult work made this prosecution and sentence possible – and made our children safer.” “The exploitation of innocent children is one of the most heinous crimes the FBI investigates,” said Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Louisville Field Office. “Today’s sentence reinforces that the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to aggressively pursue those who prey upon our most vulnerable victims and will stop at nothing to hold them accountable.” Under federal law, Childers must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for life. He was also ordered to pay more than $175,000 in restitution and financial assessments. U.S. Attorney Shier; FBI Special Agent in Charge Cohen; Col. Phillip Burnett, Commissioner, Kentucky State Police; and Chief W. Todd Kelley, Ashland Police Department, jointly announced the sentence. The investigation was conducted by FBI, KSP, and the Ashland Police Department. The United States was represented in the case by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin Roth and Mary Melton. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov . -END-


title: Harlan Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – On August 11, 2023, a Harlan man was sentenced to 21 months in prison for failing to register as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). According to public court documents, Tyrone Peacock, 32, registered as a sex offender in Illinois in May 2020. Yet, in March 2022, Peacock obtained an Iowa identification card listing a residence in Harlan, Iowa. Peacock resided in and was employed in Iowa, and failed to register, in violation of the requirements of SORNA. After his prison sentence, Peacock must serve a five-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The Harlan Police Department, Shelby County Sheriff’s Office, and Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation investigated the case.


title: Baltimore Man Pleads Guilty to Discharge of a Weapon Resulting in Death Related to a Murder-For-Hire

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore , Maryland – Tyrik Braxton, a/k/a “Son-Son,” age 25, of Baltimore, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death, in connection with a murder-for-hire conspiracy. The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”) Baltimore Field Division; Chief Gregory Der of the Howard County Police Department (“HCPD”); and Howard County State’s Attorney Rich Gibson. According to the plea agreement, on October 4, 2020, Howard County Police responded to a shooting in the area of Basket Ring Road in Columbia. Victim Juan Ross was found shot and killed at the scene. Braxton admitted that he accepted money and assisted the co-conspirators who shot the victim, knowing that the victim was going to be killed. As detailed in the plea agreement, a co-conspirator accused Juan Ross, age 23, of Columbia, Maryland, of cooperating with law enforcement, including on a live social media conversation on September 9, 2020, and in text messages. Juan Ross was arrested on drug and weapon charges on September 5, 2020, but was released on bail after being interviewed by police. Braxton admitted that a co-conspirator solicited him to kill Juan Ross and that he accepted payment from the co-conspirator to commit the murder. As detailed in the plea agreement, the defendant used interstate commerce facilities, specifically cellular telephones and a vehicle, in the commission of the murder-for-hire. According to court documents, on October 4, 2020, after a text message exchange about the address where they could find the victim, Braxton, co-defendant Daquante Thomas and another co-conspirator drove to the area of Basket Ring Road in Columbia to locate Juan Ross. After locating the victim, they drove to a drug store nearby, where Braxton got out of the car. As detailed in Daquante Thomas’s plea agreement, he and the other co-conspirator then returned to the area of Basket Ring Court, shot and killed Juan Ross and drove away together. On November 20, 2020, HCPD executed a series of search warrants, including at Braxton’s residence, where Braxton was arrested. Law enforcement recovered a .45-caliber handgun with magazine and ammunition under the mattress in Braxton’s bedroom; a blue backpack containing $2,134 in cash, located under the bed and Braxton’s iPhone, located next to the bed. The phone contained photos of Braxton and his co-conspirators and Braxton admitted that they were his co-conspirators in the murder-for-hire of Juan Ross. Braxton and the government have agreed that, if the Court accepts the plea, Braxton will be sentenced to between 20 and 25 years in federal prison. U.S. District Judge Julie R. Rubin has scheduled sentencing for November 8, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. On January 11, 2023, Judge Rubin sentenced co-defendant Daquante Thomas, age 20, of Baltimore, to 35 years in federal prison for discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death. Thomas admitted that he was one of the shooters. Co-defendant Jourdain Larose, a/k/a “JBlacc,” age 27, of Ellicott City, Maryland, is charged with a federal murder-for-hire conspiracy, use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of a murder-for hire and use and discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence resulting in death. He remains detained while he awaits trial. An indictment is not a finding of guilt. An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings. This case was made possible by investigative leads generated from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives’ (ATF) National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN). NIBIN is the only national network that allows for the capture and comparison of ballistic evidence to aid in solving and preventing violent crimes involving firearms. NIBIN is a proven investigative and intelligence tool that can link firearms from multiple crime scenes, allowing law enforcement to quickly disrupt shooting cycles. For more information on NIBIN, visit https://www.atf.gov/firearms/national-integrated-ballistic-information-network-nibin . 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. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the ATF, the Howard County Police Department, and the Howard County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation and prosecution and thanked the FBI, the Maryland State Police, the Anne Arundel County Police Department, the Baltimore County Police Department, and the Baltimore Police Department for their assistance. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Kim Y. Hagan, who is prosecuting the case. For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-neighborhoods-psnexile and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Man Admits Robbing Three Banks, Shooting at Jefferson County Deputies

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A man from Florissant, Missouri on Monday admitted robbing three banks, shooting at Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputies and forcing his way into a woman’s apartment at gunpoint. Cameron A. Thomas, 31, pleaded guilty in front of U.S. District Judge Catherine D. Perry to two counts of armed bank robbery, bank robbery, brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Thomas admitted that on Oct. 24, 2020, while dressed as a woman, he handed a note that said, “put money in the bag,” to a teller at the First Community State Bank in Jefferson County. Three days later, again while dressed as a woman, Thomas entered the Electro Savings Credit Union in St. Louis County, pointed a silver semiautomatic pistol at a teller and said, “Give me all your money.” Thomas put the money in a purse and ran out of the credit union. The next day, Thomas returned to the First Community State Bank wearing a red coat, black pants and a surgical mask. Thomas pointed a pistol at an employee and said, “This is a robbery, put your hands up.” He then put a white plastic bag on the counter and told another employee to fill it up. Employees called police, and a Jefferson County Sheriff’s deputy who was in the area tried to stop Thomas, who was in a Mercedes Benz. Thomas fled, leading authorities on a chase that ended at the Walden Pond apartments in High Ridge. Thomas fled on foot, firing multiple times at the deputies following him. He then forced his way into a woman’s apartment at gunpoint. Deputies knocked at the door, and pulled the woman from the apartment when she signaled to them that something was wrong. Before Thomas was finally arrested, he’d changed into the woman’s clothes and hidden his 9mm pistol inside the apartment. Thomas also admitted that two days before the robbery, he was in possession of an AK-47-style assault rifle. Police found the rifle after a traffic crash. Thomas is a convicted felon, having been sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2012 for second-degree robbery. Thomas is scheduled to be sentenced November 9. The discharge of a firearm count carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, consecutive to any other charge, and the brandishing charge carries a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison, consecutive to other charges. The case was investigated by Jefferson County Sheriff’s Department and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald Boyce is prosecuting the case.


title: Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun Crime

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Ampless Ray Lilly, 50, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents and statements made in court, on January 30, 2018, a law enforcement officer conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Lilly in Hurricane. Lilly admitted to telling the officer that he had a gun and was a convicted felon. The officer found a Ruger 9mm pistol between the driver’s seat and center console. Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Lilly knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for first-degree sexual assault in Lincoln County Circuit Court on January 22, 1993. Lilly is scheduled to be sentenced on November 13, 2023, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Hurricane Police Department. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie Taylor is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-9. ###


title: Meth trafficking on Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation sends Colorado man to prison for 10 years

body_text: GREAT FALLS — A Colorado man who admitted to trafficking methamphetamine on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation was sentenced today to 10 years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Moises Zamora, 37, of Denver, Colorado, pleaded guilty in August 2022 to possession with intent to distribute meth. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that in September 2021, near Box Elder, on the Rocky Boy’s Indian Reservation, law enforcement arrested Zamora and recovered meth from his pocket and his truck. The meth was meant for distribution to others. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy J. Racicot and Ryan G. Weldon prosecuted the case. The FBI conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Houston Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing with Intent to Distribute Three Kilograms of  Fentanyl

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – Jorge Isaac Gonzalez-Medina , age 31, of Houston, Texas. pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Jane Triche Milazzo to violating the Controlled Substances Act, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to court records, Gonzalez-Medina admitted to possessing with the intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(A). Gonzalez-Medina admitted to being stopped in a vehicle with three kilograms of fentanyl hidden in the rear axle. Sentencing is set for November 29, 2023. Gonzalez-Medina faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years, up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000, and at least 5 years of supervised release. The count also carries a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Charleston Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Crime

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Jonathan Levi Rider, 19, of Charleston, pleaded guilty today to possession of prepubescent child pornography. According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 17, 2022, Rider possessed videos on his cell phone depicting minors subjected to sexually explicit conduct. Rider admitted that he had downloaded the videos to his phone and further admitted that one of the videos depicted an adult male sexually abusing a prepubescent girl. Rider is scheduled to be sentenced on November 9, 2023, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Rider must also register as a sex offender. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the West Virginia State Police. United States District Judge Joseph R. Goodwin presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White is prosecuting the case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-24. ###


title: Former Pittsburgh Resident Sentenced to 80 Months’ Imprisonment for Conviction of Attempted Bank Robbery and Bank Robbery

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Pittsburgh, PA, has been sentenced in federal court to 80 months’ imprisonment on his conviction of attempted bank robbery and bank robbery, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. Senior United States District Judge David S. Cercone imposed the sentence on Calvin Leavy, 69. According to information presented to the court, on January 31, 2022, Leavy attempted to rob the First National Bank, located at 3721 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15213. Approximately 12 minutes later, Leavy entered the PNC Bank located at 4600 Fifth Ave, Pittsburgh, PA 15213, wearing the exact same clothing and matching the description of the individual that had attempted to rob the First National Bank. Leavy informed the bank employee, “I have a gun. Give me the money.” Leavy took approximately $1,338 from the PNC. Then, on February 8, 2022, Leavy entered the First National Bank, located at 307 4th Avenue, Pittsburgh, PA 15222, approached the bank employee and stated he had a gun and demanded money. Leavy took approximately $1,238 from the First National Bank. With the assistance of surveillance footage, investigators determined that Leavy used the Port Authority bus to travel to and from each of the bank robberies and used his bus card to pay for the fare. After tracking Leavy’s movements, investigators located Leavy, wearing the same clothing that he wore for the robbery, and arrested him. Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca L. Silinski prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and City of Pittsburgh Police Department for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Leavy.


title: Federal Grand Jury Indicts New Orleans Man for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that AARON HENDERSON , age 28, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged with violating the Federal Gun Control Act. HENDERSON is charged with one count of possession of two firearms by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). If convicted, HENDERSON faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. 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. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.


title: Pittsburgh Resident Sentenced to 18 Months of Imprisonment for Convictions of Agreeing with Others to Pay Illegal Kickbacks Related to Laboratory Tests

body_text: PITTSBURGH, PA - A resident of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania has been sentenced in federal court to 18 months of imprisonment, and ordered to forfeit $9 million in criminal proceeds and pay more than $77 million in restitution on his convictions for conspiring to pay illegal kickbacks related to laboratory tests, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. Reddy previously pled guilty to three counts of conspiring to commit offenses against the United States and one count of offering and paying kickbacks in connection with a federal health care program. United States District Judge William S. Stickman imposed the sentence on Ravitej Reddy, 56, of Pittsburgh, PA. According to information presented to the court, Reddy used two Pittsburgh-area laboratories he owned and operated in the execution of three illegal kickbacks schemes. Reddy and others paid kickbacks to marketers in return for the marketers obtaining cheek swabs from Medicare beneficiaries to be used in laboratory testing. Reddy and others also paid kickbacks to ensure that telemedicine physicians provided prescriptions for laboratory testing for the swabs obtained by the marketers. Reddy’s labs then billed for the performance of the tests. In all, Reddy and others caused a loss to the United States in excess of $60 million. United States Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General for the Investigation for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Reddy. The United States Attorney’s Office’s efforts to combat healthcare fraud are frequently made possible by tips from the community. To report suspected fraud, please contact the FBI’s healthcare fraud tipline at WDPAhealthcarefraud@fbi.gov, or the Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-HHS-TIPS.


body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TEDDY NATHAN , age 24, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, was charged with violating the Federal Gun Control Act. NATHAN is charged with one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1). If convicted, NATHAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years, up to a $250,000 fine, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. U. S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. 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. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Louisiana State Police. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller of the Violent Crime Unit.


title: Poplar man sentenced to prison for sexual abuse on Fort Peck Indian Reservation

body_text: GREAT FALLS — A Poplar man who admitted sexually abusing a woman on the Fort Peck Indian Reservation was sentenced today to four years and eight months in prison, to be followed by 30 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Shane Daniel Freemont, 33, pleaded guilty in February to sexual abuse. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. In court documents, the government alleged that in September 2020, Freemont was at his residence, drinking with a group of individuals. One of the individuals, identified as Jane Doe, was drinking with Freemont and blacked out from intoxication. Despite her level of intoxication, Freemont had sex with Jane Doe. The victim was physically incapable of declining to participate in or to communicate unwillingness to engage in sex. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Peck Department of Law and Justice conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Inmate Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

body_text: HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Corey Michael Perkins, 34, an inmate, pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to distribute suboxone and methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 6, 2022, Perkins was an inmate at the Western Regional Jail in Barboursville when he spoke to another individual outside the jail during recorded phone calls about getting a package of suboxone and methamphetamine into the jail. Perkins admitted that he instructed the individual on how to prepare the package, paid an employee working at the jail to transport the package inside, and arranged a meeting between the outside individual and the employee. Perkins further admitted that he intended to distribute the suboxone and methamphetamine. The package was intercepted at the jail before it could be transported inside. Perkins is scheduled to be sentenced on November 13, 2023, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine. Perkins conspired with Judy Ann Goodman, also known as Judy Ann Eplion, and Bryanna Danielle Kern. Goodman pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute suboxone and methamphetamine on April 3, 2023. Goodman admitted to conducting the recorded jail phone calls with Perkins. Kern pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute suboxone on February 21, 2023. Kern admitted to conspiring with Perkins and Goodman while working as a kitchen employee at the Western Regional Jail. Goodman and Kern each await sentencing. In an earlier case, Perkins pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute suboxone, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. In that case, Perkins admitted to coordinating with multiple individuals to get drugs into the Western Regional Jail from November to December 2020. Perkins was sentenced to 11 years and eight months in prison in that case on August 22, 2022. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the investigations section of the West Virginia Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation (WVDCR). United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorneys Ryan Keefe and Courtney L. Finney are prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:22-cr-220. ###


title: Fresno Men Sentenced to 10 and 17 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — Two Fresno residents were sentenced today for gun and drug charges that arose from a long-term investigation that uncovered evidence of a drug trafficking conspiracy, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. Maximiliano Wilfrido Rios Ruiz, 27, was sentenced to 10 years in prison for conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Pedro Duran, 32, was sentenced to 17 years in prison for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine. According to court documents, between February and April 2020, on at least two occasions, Ruiz met with a supplier to obtain cocaine, which Ruiz and his co-conspirator intended to distribute. A search of Ruiz’s residence uncovered a firearm and additional amounts of cocaine. According to court documents, in April 2020, Duran was identified as a large-scale narcotics trafficker. A search of Duran’s storage unit uncovered 33 pounds of methamphetamine, 3 pounds of cocaine, 3 pounds of fentanyl pills, and over 3 pounds of marijuana. Duran’s residence also contained additional amounts of methamphetamine and cocaine, seven firearms, ammunition, and approximately $8,800 in cash. These cases were the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, the Fresno Police Department, the Special Operations Unit of the California Department of Justice and the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and the Fresno County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Antonio J. Pataca prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.


title: Billings man admits trafficking methamphetamine

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: BILLINGS — A Billings man today admitted to trafficking methamphetamine after law enforcement seized approximately four pounds of the drug from a workshop, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Gary Michael Byrd, 52, pleaded guilty to a superseding information charging him with possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. Byrd faces a mandatory minimum of five years to 40 years in prison, a $5 million fine and at least four years of supervised release. U.S. Magistrate Judge Timothy J. Cavan presided. A sentencing date will be set before U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters. The court will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Byrd was released pending further proceedings. The government alleged in court documents that early this year, the Billings Police Department received information that Byrd was trafficking meth from his residence. Law enforcement pulled over Byrd and arrested him on an outstanding warrant. During a search, officers found more than $5,600 cash in his pocket. Officers also executed a search warrant at a workshop where Byrd was suspected of storing drugs and recovered approximately four pounds of meth from a toolbox. Four pounds of meth is the equivalent of 14,496 doses. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin D. Hargrove is prosecuting the case. The Billings Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration 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: Charleston Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun Crime

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Kevin Gerard Denson, 36, of Charleston, was sentenced today to two years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents and statements made in court, on June 30, 2022, law enforcement officers responded to a report of shots fired on Leon Sullivan Way in Charleston. Officers encountered Denson exiting a vehicle in an alley near Jet Life Apparel. Officers found two firearms in the vehicle, a Dickinson, model XXPA, 12-gauge shotgun and a Smith & Wesson, model M&P 15, 5.56-caliber rifle. Each firearm was loaded with a high-capacity drum magazine. Officers also found a bullet hole at the entrance to Jet Life Apparel, and obtained a search warrant for the store’s video surveillance system. The footage showed Denson carrying the two firearms and Jonathan Kennedy, 41, of St. Albans, running across the store while holding the shotgun following an apparent altercation outside. Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Denson knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior felony conviction for delivery of cocaine in Kanawha Circuit Court on June 12, 2013. The video surveillance footage showed Kennedy and Denson possessed the firearms after Jamon L. Woodson fired a pistol in the direction of Jet Life Apparel following an apparent verbal argument. Officers recovered a spent 9mm casing from the street near where the pistol was fired. Woodson was sentenced to five years in prison on July 20, 2023, after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of ammunition. Kennedy was sentenced to three years in prison on August 1, 2023, after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. “On a day when huge crowds were heading to the Charleston Sternwheel Regatta, Mr. Denson and Mr. Kennedy brandished firearms with large-capacity magazines after Mr. Woodson fired a pistol outside a downtown business in broad daylight. It is a miracle that no one was hurt,” said United States Attorney Will Thompson. “I commend the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Charleston Police Department, and the quick law enforcement response that prevented this disturbing incident from escalating.” Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Nowles Heinrich prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:22-cr-145. ###


title: Bronx Man Admits To 2009 And 2012 Murders

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that SHAREEF LANDSMARK pled guilty today to conspiring to distribute narcotics in connection with his involvement in the June 29, 2009 murder of Warren Wilbourne and the September 17, 2012 murder of Michael Perez. As part of his guilty plea, LANDSMARK admitted to murdering both Wilbourne and Perez in the Bronx, New York. LANDSMARK pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Katharine H. Parker. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “On June 29, 2009, Shareef Landsmark shot and killed Warren Wilbourne. Three years later, Landsmark shot and killed Michael Perez. Today’s guilty plea reaffirms the commitment of my Office to pursing justice and holding accountable those who commit acts of violence in our communities. I commend the New York City Police Department and the career prosecutors of my office for their continued efforts in investigating these murders.” According to the allegations in the Superseding Information and other documents filed in federal court as well as statements made in public court proceedings: From at least June 2009 through May 2014, LANDSMARK agreed with others to sell cocaine in the Bronx, New York. In furtherance of his participation in this narcotics conspiracy, LANDSMARK shot and killed Warren Wilbourne on June 29, 2009, and Michael Perez on September 17, 2012. * * * LANDSMARK, 38, from the Bronx, New York, pled guilty to narcotics conspiracy, which carries a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison. LANDSMARK will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Lorna G. Schofield later this year. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for information purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the NYPD. He also thanked the Special Agents of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of New York for their assistance in the investigation. The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Violent and Organized Crime Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Hobson, Alexandra Rothman, and Christy Slavik are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Local Contractor Sentenced for Bribing Former School Board President  of Madison District Public Schools

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – John David was sentenced today to 24 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to bribing Albert Morrison, a former School Board President of Madison District Public Schools, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced. Ison was joined in the announcement by Devin J. Kowalski, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Charles Miller, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, and John Woolley, Special Agent in Charge of the Department of Education, Office of Inspector General. David, age 65, was sentenced after pleading guilty before the Honorable Laurie Michelson to Conspiracy to Commit Federal Program Bribery from 2014 through 2018 and Bribery Concerning Programs Receiving Federal Funds. David owned a building maintenance and reconstruction company, Emergency Restoration (a/k/a Emergency Reconstruction), that was awarded over $3.1 million in maintenance and construction projects in the Madison District Public Schools. David admitted making payments of more than $561,000 to Morrison in order to secure the work for the Madison District. Albert Morrison pleaded guilty on April 25, 2023, and is currently scheduled to be sentenced on August 28, 2023. “Our community deserves school systems free of corruption,” said United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison. “This prosecution and today’s sentence will help ensure that public school officials conduct themselves with the highest level of honesty, integrity, and transparency and put the interests of our children first.” “Mr. David received work from the Madison District Public School Board by bribing someone in a position of power which corrupted the process by which contracts were awarded,” said Devin J. Kowalski, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Detroit Field Office. “The FBI, IRS, and Department of Education Office of Inspector General will continue to work cooperatively to hold defendants like this one accountable for their crimes.” “Individuals who commit financial fraud of this magnitude and with this degree of dishonesty and deceit, deserve to be punished to the fullest extent of the law,” said Special Agent in Charge Charles Miller, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office. “IRS-Criminal Investigation, along with our law enforcement partners and the United States Attorney's Office, remain vigilant in identifying, investigating and prosecuting those individuals who seek to use their positions of power to line their own pockets.” The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division, and the Department of Education. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sarah Resnick Cohen, Karen Reynolds, and Gjon Juncaj.


title: Sacramento Man Sentenced to over 7 Years in Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Quentin Carthen, 41, of Sacramento, was sentenced today to seven years and eight months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, on March 16, 2020, Carthen was riding in a car that was stopped by law enforcement officers. Carthen—who had been paroled from state prison just four days earlier—got out of the car, ignored commands to stop, and ran away from the detectives. As he ran away, Carthen dropped a tan-colored bag that he had been carrying, and when police later seized the bag, they found an assault weapon inside, loaded with a bullet in the chamber, an extended magazine, a silencer, and the safety switch set to “fire.” This gun also had a rubber glove-like piece placed over the trigger, which would allow its user to pull the trigger without leaving fingerprints. He has previously been convicted of several felonies, including drug trafficking and assault. This case was the product of an investigation by the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of 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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Former Owner of Argillite Family Care Home Sentenced to 18 Months for Wire Fraud

body_text: ASHLAND, Ky. – Donna Sue Glass, 53, of Greenup, Kentucky, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison on Monday by U.S. District Court Judge David L. Bunning. Glass pleaded guilty to two counts of wire fraud, stemming from her conduct as the owner of the Glass Family Care Home, a now closed family care home located in Argillite, Kentucky. According to court records, Glass became the guardian over two of her residents and an authorized signor on another’s bank accounts, and, as to all three, misappropriated their money while acting as a guardian or caregiver. According to her plea agreement, from September 2015 to April 2018, Glass used one resident’s bank account to purchase items for her personal benefit, including expenses for personal vacations, her daughter’s beauty pageant competitions, monthly tanning salon memberships, veterinary care for her pets, and other miscellaneous items, using a debit card she had no authority to obtain or use. In her plea agreement, Glass also agreed that she increased the rent of another resident over whom she had Guardianship, identified in the plea agreement as P.M.J., to an amount well in excess of what P.M.J. could afford. Glass, as P.M.J.’s Guardian, accepted the rate increase to generate a debt P.M.J. would owe to her, and then took funds directly from P.M.J.’s savings account to satisfy this debt. When P.M.J. moved to a higher-level nursing facility, Glass admitted she continued to accept and spend P.M.J.’s retirement benefits and failed to pay her new nursing facility, under the pretense that P.M.J. owed her money. During the sentencing hearing, the Court announced that Glass misappropriated just under $95,000, and ordered restitution in the amount of approximately $87,700, to be paid to the estates of the three victims. As a condition of her sentencing, Glass is required to pay the net proceeds for the sale of the Glass Family Care Home property to the United States to pay off some or all of this restitution amount. Glass pleaded guilty on March 31. Under federal law, Glass must serve 85 percent of her prison sentence, and upon her release from prison will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years. Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, jointly announced the sentence. The investigation was conducted by the FBI, with assistance from Adult Protective Services, a division of the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services, Department for Community Based Services. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn Dieruf. – END –


title: Cecily Aguilar Receives Maximum Sentence for Role in Vanessa Guillen Murder

body_text: WACO, Texas – A Killeen woman was sentenced in federal court in Waco today to 30 years in prison for her connection to the murder of U.S. Army Specialist Vanessa Guillen. According to court documents, Cecily Aguilar, 25, assisted Army Specialist Aaron Robinson in corruptly altering, destroying, mutilating and concealing evidence—that is, the body of Vanessa Guillen—in order to prevent Robinson from being charged with and prosecuted for any crime. Aguilar also altered and destroyed information contained in a Google account of Robinson. During the investigation into the disappearance of Vanessa Guillen, Aguilar made four materially false statements to federal investigators. On Nov. 29, 2022, Aguilar pleaded guilty to one count of accessory to murder after the fact and three counts of false statement or representation. “Our hope is that today’s sentence brings a sense of relief and justice to the Guillen family, who have endured such pain throughout these past few years,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “Ms. Aguilar’s actions were indefensible, and she will now face the maximum penalty for the choices she made. I’m grateful for our law enforcement partners who worked tirelessly on this case, as their dedication was essential in bringing this defendant to justice.” The FBI; U.S. Marshals Service; Texas Rangers; Bell County Sheriff’s Office; Killeen Police Department; Texas Parks and Wildlife; U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division; and the University of North Texas Center for Human Identification Forensic Anthropology Unit investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark Frazier and Greg Gloff prosecuted the case. ###


title: Great Falls man charged with threats to federal officer, firearms crimes

body_text: GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls man appeared in federal court today on charges of making threats to a federal agent and illegal possession of firearms after law enforcement officers arrested him earlier in the day, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Paul J. Valenzuela, 55, appeared for an initial appearance on a criminal complaint charging him with threats to a federal official and felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted of the most serious crime, Valenzuela faces a maximum of 15 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release. Valenzuela was detained pending further proceedings. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that Valenzuela, who has felony convictions, illegally possessed a firearm, and that on Aug. 7, he made threats to an FBI officer in text messages in which he which he refers to having access to firearms and stated, “Shoot at me I shoot back.” A criminal complaint is only an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan G. Weldon is prosecuting the case. The FBI conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 23-72. The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html . To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl XXX


title: DOJ alerts independent K-12 schools about obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – The U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Washington, is reminding independent schools of their obligations under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) with respect to the accommodation of students with type 1 diabetes. There are approximately 215,000 Americans under the age of 20 currently diagnosed with type 1 diabetes. A letter sent to independent schools in Seattle serving elementary and middle-school aged students, arriving this week, not only reminds educators of their obligations under the ADA, but also provides resources to assist schools in setting up policies and procedures for monitoring a child’s blood sugar in compliance with the ADA. “Our office continues to receive complaints from parents that their school-age children with type 1 diabetes are not afforded full and equal access to services provided by independent schools,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “I hope the letter, which is a reminder for schools, as well as the online resources referenced in the letter, will motivate educators and administrators to make the modifications necessary for a truly inclusive environment for all our children.” The letter for the schools makes note of this settlement with a school in Louisiana. See Settlement Agreement Between the United States of America and Alexandria Country Day School , available at https://archive.ada.gov/alexandria_settle.htm . The letter makes clear that staff at the school may need to be trained to support children with type 1 diabetes. Where a parent or guardian and a child’s physician or other qualified health care professional deem it appropriate (based on the child’s current health status) for a child to be assisted in diabetes care by a layperson, training child care staff members to assist with routine diabetes care tasks, including the administration of insulin by pen, syringe, or pump, is generally a reasonable modification under the ADA unless an independent school can demonstrate that the individual circumstances cause a fundamental alteration to its goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations. The letter also offers online resources such as: Washington Superintendent of Public Instruction and Department of Health, “Guidelines for Care of Students with Disabilities,” available online at https://www.k12.wa.us/sites/default/files/public/healthservices/pubdocs/diabetes/diabetesmanual-ada.pdf ; National Diabetes Education Program, “Helping the Student with Diabetes Succeed: A Guide for School Personnel,” available online at https://diabetes.org/sites/default/files/2020-02/NDEP-School-Guide-Full-508.pdf ; American Diabetes Association, “Sample Diabetes Management Plan,” available online at https://diabetes.org/sites/default/files/2022-11/DMMP-updated-11-11-22.pdf . In addition to schools, DOJ has entered into settlements with childcare centers and summer camps that failed to accommodate children with type 1 diabetes. As the new school year begins, independent schools should examine their procedures to ensure a child’s diabetes care is integrated into the daily routine, with the proper support from school staff. The full letter from the U.S. Attorney’s Office Civil Rights unit is below. independent_schools_seattle_-_t1d_dcl_for_website.pdf


title: Bronx Man Charged With Shooting On Webster Avenue

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, James Smith, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and Edward A. Caban, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced the unsealing of a complaint charging MALCOLM HOGUE with firing four shots in the middle of a crowded street, wounding one victim in the ankle. HOGUE was arrested this morning and presented before United States Magistrate Judge Katharine H. Parker this afternoon. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Malcolm Hogue—who was previously convicted of attempted murder—fired four bullets in the middle of an unsuspecting crowd on Webster Avenue in the Bronx. One of those bullets struck an innocent bystander. Thanks to the swift action of our law enforcement partners, Hogue is now being held accountable for his alleged violent actions.” FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said: “As alleged, Hogue recklessly exposed our community to senseless gunfire, putting the lives of multiple innocent people in danger. The charges today serve as a reminder to anyone who threatens the safety of our neighborhoods with violence – the FBI and our law enforcement partners will ensure you face the consequences in the criminal justice system.” NYPD Commissioner Edward A. Caban said: “Today’s arrest for shooting a gun on a busy Bronx street confirms that this repeat violent offender was a continued threat to the community. Anyone who allegedly commits such acts in New York City will be held fully accountable – there will always be consequences. I commend the work of the NYPD and FBI investigators who removed this criminal from our streets, and the office of the U.S. Attorney for the Southern District for its ongoing work in prosecuting this case.” According to the allegations in the Complaint: [ [1] ] On June 18, 2023, a group of at least 20 people, including HOGUE, were gathered on Webster Avenue in the Bronx. While walking along Webster Avenue, HOGUE was holding what appears to be a firearm in his right hand. Surveillance video captured HOGUE racking the firearm as he walked along the street in the direction of a nearby Blink Fitness gym. Still images from surveillance footage are below: HOGUE then fired four shots. After the first gunshot, bystanders began fleeing, running down Webster Avenue away from the Blink Fitness. HOGUE continued firing. Below are still images of HOGUE, as captured by surveillance video, showing HOGUE as he fired a second gunshot. HOGUE later returned to Webster Avenue, where surveillance video captured him canvassing the ground for bullet fragments and/or shell casings left behind after the shooting. NYPD officers arrived on the scene where they found a man standing in front of the Blink Fitness who had been shot in his left ankle. The officers recovered a bullet fragment from the victim’s ankle, as well as a 9mm FC Luger shell casing from the sidewalk in front of the Blink Fitness. Below is a photograph of the recovered shell casing: HOGUE was not permitted to possess ammunition because of prior felony convictions, one of which was a conviction for attempted murder. * * * HOGUE, 31, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with possession of ammunition after a felony conviction, which carries a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and the NYPD and thanked the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office for their assistance. This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Benjamin M. Burkett is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. U.S. vs Malcolm Hogue Complaint [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth below constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: Passaic County Man Sentenced to 186 Months in Prison for Producing Child Pornography and Online Enticement

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A Passaic County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 186 months in prison for producing one or more images of child sexual abuse and enticing a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today. Jose Minaya, 27, of Paterson, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Julien X. Neals to an information charging him with one count of production of child pornography and one count of online enticement. Judge Neals imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: In July 2019, Minaya used a web-based application to engage a child in a sexually explicit conversation online. Minaya persuaded the child to take sexually explicit photographs of the child and send them to him. Minaya was arrested at his home in May 2020, at which time agents seized multiple electronic devices. Further investigation revealed that Minaya had used another application to entice an additional minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct. In addition to the prison term, Judge Neals sentenced Minaya to lifetime supervised release and ordered him to register as a sex offender. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing. He also thanked the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office for its assistance. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Barnes of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Criminal Division in Newark.


title: Union County Man Arrested for Corporate Tax Evasion

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A Union County contractor was arrested today for tax evasion, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced. Joel Konopka, 45, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, is charged by indictment with four counts of corporate tax evasion, two counts of filing false corporate tax returns, and two counts of failing to file corporate tax returns. He appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Jessica Stein Allen in Newark federal court and was detained. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: From 2014 through 2017, Konopka was the owner and sole shareholder of Konopka Construction Inc., a business which provided construction, contracting and snow plowing services in northern New Jersey. Under the tax laws of the United States, Konopka was responsible for filing truthful and accurate corporate tax returns, Form 1120s, on behalf of Konopka Construction reporting all of the company’s income. From 2014 through 2017, Konopka Construction realized business income of at least $3.3 million, including more than $1 million in 2016. Konopka did not truthfully and accurately report that income. For tax years 2014 and 2015, Konopka filed corporate returns which reported no income for Konopka Construction for both years. For tax years 2016 and 2017, Konopka failed to file any corporate returns as required. From 2014 through 2017, Konopka caused no payments to be made to the IRS for any corporate tax. Konopka disguised the income realized by Konopka Construction by operating almost exclusively in cash. Konopka received hundreds of checks annually made payable to Konopka Construction for services rendered totaling hundreds of thousands of dollars and cashed all but one check at check cashing businesses in Essex and Ocean counties. The tax evasion charges are punishable by a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison and a maximum $500,000 fine per count. The filing of false tax returns charges are punishable by a maximum penalty of three years in prison and a $500,000 maximum fine per count. The failure to file tax return charges are punishable by a maximum of one year in prison and a $100,000 fine per count. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents with IRS - Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Tammy Tomlins, and special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy, with the investigation leading to today’s arrest. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark J. McCarren and Francesca Liquori of the Special Prosecutions Division in Newark. The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. konopka.indictment.pdf


title: Watervliet Woman Sentenced for Making False Statements

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Eunice Ting, age 69, of Watervliet, New York, was sentenced on Friday to 1 year of probation, to pay a $10,000 fine, and to pay full restitution for making a false statement to obtain benefits from the United States Department of Labor, Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG), Northeast Area Field Office, made the announcement. In pleading guilty, Ting admitted that between December 2013, and March 2020, she submitted hundreds of materially false and fraudulent forms to the U.S. Department of Labor’s Office of Workers’ Compensation Programs seeking reimbursement for travel she did not do. Specifically, she falsely claimed workers’ compensation benefits for medically related travel to and from a local YMCA for purported “aquatic therapy” when she had not received any such therapy and did not travel to the YMCA as claimed. She received a total of $26,983 from the Department of Labor because of her fraudulent submissions. Senior United States District Judge Frederick J. Scullin, Jr. ordered Ting to pay $26,983 in restitution, which Ting paid at sentencing. USPS-OIG investigated this case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander Wentworth-Ping prosecuted it.


title: Schoharie County Sex Offender Admits Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – John C. Hotaling, age 62, of Esperance, New York, pled guilty today, on the eve of trial, to possessing child pornography. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman; Special Agent in Charge Janeen DiGuiseppi of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and New York State Police Acting Superintendent Steven A. Nigrelli made the announcement. Hotaling admitted that in 2020, he possessed child pornography images, some of which he created by photoshopping the faces of children onto nude adult bodies engaged in sexually explicit conduct, a process known as “morphing.” Hotaling was on supervised release at the time for a 2009 conviction for engaging in the same conduct. He also admitted violating his terms and conditions of supervised release. Trial in the case was scheduled to begin tomorrow, August 15. At sentencing on January 4, 2024, before United States District Judge Glenn T. Suddaby, Hotaling faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. The FBI, New York State Police and U.S. Probation Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas Collyer, Ashlyn Miranda and Rick Bellis are prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Albany Man Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Offenses

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Samuel Coleman, age 51, of Albany, pled guilty on Friday to distributing and possessing with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement. Coleman admitted that between March 2020 and January 2021, he distributed and possessed with intent to distribute at least 1,613 grams of methamphetamine. At sentencing, Coleman faces a term of imprisonment of at least 10 years and up to life, a fine of up to $10 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 5 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Albany County Sheriff’s Office, Colonie Police Department, and New York State Police, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashlyn Miranda.


title: Vermont Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Online Enticement of a Minor

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Gabriel Charron, age 51, of Milton, Vermont, pled guilty today to the attempted online enticement of a minor. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Janeen DiGuiseppi, Special Agent in Charge of the Albany Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made the announcement. Charron admitted that between May 2022 and March 4, 2023, he exchanged sexually explicit messages online with people he believed were a mother and an 11-year old girl, respectively, in an attempt to entice the child into engaging in sexual acts with him. Charron also admitted that on March 4, 2023, he travelled from Vermont to a hotel in Albany County, New York, with the intent to engage in sexual acts with the 11-year-old girl. Charron was arrested by law enforcement shortly after arriving at the location. At sentencing on December 18, 2023, before Senior United States District Judge Gary L. Sharpe, Charron faces at least 10 years and up to a life in prison. The judge will also be required to impose a term of post-release supervision of at least 5 years and up to life. The court may also impose a fine, restitution, and forfeiture of the smartphone Charron used to commit his offense. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. Charron will also have to register as a sex offender upon his release from prison. The FBI’s Mid-State Child Exploitation Task Force and Capital Region Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force investigated the case. Each task force is comprised of FBI Special Agents, as well as state and local police investigators, including from the New York State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Belliss is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood. Launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood is led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS). Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Georgetown Restauranteurs Plead Guilty to Tax Offenses and Theft of COVID Relief Funds

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: The Defendants evaded more than $1.35M in Taxes and Spent more than $738K in COVID Relief Funds on a Waterfront Condo, Personal Investments, Vacation, and College Tuition WASHINGTON – Gholam “Tony” Kowkabi, 63, and Karen Kowkabi, 64, of Vienna, Virginia, pleaded guilty in federal court today to tax offenses relating to their failure to pay more than $1.35 million in taxes, arising from their operation of several restaurants in the Washington, D.C. area. Gholam Kowkabi also pleaded guilty to stealing more than $738,000 from the emergency small business relief funds his Georgetown restaurant—Ristorante Piccolo—received during the COVID pandemic. As part of his plea, Mr. Kowkabi acknowledged having spent money, which was intended to help his business, on a waterfront condo in Ocean City, Maryland, as well as personal investments, vacations for his family, and college tuition for his child. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg, of the Justice Department’s Tax Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS)-Criminal Investigation, Washington, D.C. Field Office. “This defendant robbed a program intended to help fellow restauranteurs and other small business owners who were struggling to stay afloat amid the devastating economic impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “He also created an elaborate scheme to hide assets and play a shell game with the IRS so he could avoid paying the more than one million dollars in taxes that he and his business owed. Our Office will continue to vigorously prosecute such frauds." “Tax evasion and misappropriation of COVID-19 relief funds undermine the integrity of our tax system and harm honest taxpayers,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Kareem Carter of the Washington D.C. Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation remains steadfast in its commitment to upholding tax compliance and pursuing those who attempt to evade their tax responsibilities.” Gholam Kowkabi pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to wire fraud and tax evasion. Wire fraud carries a statutory penalty of 20 years and financial penalties. Tax evasion carries a statutory penalty of five years and financial penalties. Karen Kowkabi pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to five counts of willfully failing to pay taxes. Failing to pay tax carries a statutory penalty of one year and financial penalties. Sentencing hearings are scheduled for December 1, 2023. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The Tax Evasion Scheme According to the statements of offense submitted to the Court and admitted by Gholam Kowkabi and Karen Kowkabi, the Kowkabis have owned and operated Ristorante Piccolo in Georgetown since 1986. The Kowkabis also owned and operated restaurants Catch 15 and Tuscana West in Washington, D.C. From 1998 to 2018, the Kowkabis amassed an unpaid tax balance of $1,351,038.51, including federal income and employment taxes and Trust Fund Recovery Penalties. Gholam Kowkabi admitted to willfully attempting to evade payment of those taxes by concealing assets and obscuring the large sums of money he took from the businesses by, among others, purchasing property in the name of a nominee entity and causing false entries in the businesses’ books and records to hide personal purchases using business bank accounts. Karen Kowkabi admitted that she willfully failed to pay these taxes as well. Gholam and Karen Kowkabi have agreed to pay $1,351,038.51 in restitution to the IRS. The Scheme to Steal COVID-19 Relief Funds Further, from May 13, 2020, to July 27, 2021, Gholam Kowkabi obtained more than more than $1.6 million in COVID-19 relief funds including $474,000 from first draw and second draw Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans, an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) for $499,900 and a Restaurant Revitalization Fund (RRF) grant for $631,823.28. First Draw PPP loans could be used to help fund payroll costs, including benefits, and could also be used to pay for mortgage interest, rent, utilities, worker protection costs related to COVID-19, uninsured property damage costs caused by looting or vandalism during 2020, and certain supplier costs and expenses for operations. Second Draw PPP loans could be used to help fund payroll costs, including benefits. Second Draw PPP loan funds could also be used to pay for mortgage interest, rent, utilities, worker protection costs related to COVID-19, uninsured property damage costs caused by looting or vandalism during 2020, and certain supplier costs and expenses for operations. EIDL loan proceeds could be used for working capital to make regular payments for operating expenses, including payroll, rent/mortgage, utilities, and other ordinary business expenses, and to pay business debt. Restaurant Revitalization Funds could be used for specific expenses including business payroll costs (including sick leave), payments on any business mortgage obligation, business rent payments (not including prepayment), business debt service (not including prepayment), both principal and interest, business utility payments, business maintenance expenses, construction of outdoor seating, business supplies, business food and beverage expenses, covered supplier costs, business operating expenses. In these applications and loan agreements, Gholam Kowkabi fraudulently and falsely promised that the PPP, EIDL, and RRF proceeds would be used only for business-related and eligible purposes as specified in the applications. Instead, Gholam Kowkabi used a portion of the PPP funds, EIDL funds, and RRF funds for unauthorized purposes and for his own personal enrichment, including the purchase of a waterfront condo in Ocean City, Maryland for more than $500,000, two joint venture investments totaling more than $237,000 for the construction of homes in Great Falls, Virginia, and more than $78,500 to open Divan Restaurant in McLean, Virginia. Gholam Kowkabi spent more than $11,000 of COVID relief funds on his home mortgage, more than $14,000 on vacations, more than $62,000 on personal legal expenses, more than $20,000 on home improvement, and more than $5,500 on college tuition payments. Gholam Kowkabi has agreed to pay $738,657.18 in restitution to the SBA. Gholam Kowkabi has agreed to a money judgment in the amount of $738,657.18 and to the forfeiture of the waterfront condo and the two joint ventures funded with COVID-19 relief funds. In announcing the plea, U.S. Attorney Graves, Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart Goldberg, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Carter commended the work of those who investigated the case from IRS-CI. They expressed thanks for assistance provided by the SBA Office of Inspector General during the investigation of this case. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Leslie A. Goemaat of the Fraud, Public Corruption, and Civil Rights Section and Trial Attorney Sarah Ranney of the Department of Justice, Tax Division. # # On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus. Anyone with information about allegations of fraud related to COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.


title: Richland Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Pornography

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Yakima, Washington – On August 14, 2023, U.S. District Judge Mary K. Dimke sentenced Allen Richard Smith, 66, of Richland, Washington, to 25 years in federal prison for producing images of child pornography depicting minor boys in the Philippines. Judge Dimke also ordered Smith to serve the remainder of his life on federal supervision after he is released from prison. Smith pleaded guilty on September 24, 2021. In announcing sentence, Judge Dimke noted, that Smith has shown that with even a cell phone in his hand, he poses a danger to children across the world. Smith first came to the attention of law enforcement because Facebook reported that he was distributing images of child pornography on Facebook from April 2019 through May 2020. Special Agents with Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) and the Richland Police Department sought and obtained search warrants for Smith’s social media accounts, and discovered significant amounts of child pornography that Smith had sent and received. In his accounts, Smith also had numerous ongoing conversations with other adult men in which Smith remotely directed the real-time recording of hands-on sexual abuse of destitute boys in the Philippines who were as young as 8 years old. Among the computers and digital devices that law enforcement officers seized from Smith’s residence in Richland was a Dell PC, whose hard drive contained a folder named “Allen’s files” and a subfolder Smith named “FB & Twitter Friends from Around the World – Collection of Pics & Vids.” In that file, Smith specifically identified his victims with highly-detailed lists of the boys’ names, ages, and locations. Law enforcement identified numerous victims from around the United States and the rest of the world. For one minor victim in Guatemala, Smith even transferred funds to the child’s mother in exchange for images of child pornography. In October 2017, Smith traveled to the Philippines in person. The Filipino authorities checked Smith’s records, learned that he was a registered sex offender based on a prior conviction in Benton County Superior Court for two counts of First Degree Child Molestation, and denied him entry. Law enforcement officers were able to locate and interview several of Smith’s victims, although many more could not be identified with certainty. Several of Smith’s victims described him seeking them out online and offering them money or cell phone minutes in exchange for them performing sex acts on video for Smith. Where it was possible to do so, American law enforcement and diplomatic officers worked with local authorities to remove children from dangerous situations. “It is serious enough that Defendant – a convicted and registered sex offender – repeatedly traded, collected, and produced crime-scene videos of young boys being sexually abused. But his conduct was even worse: he specifically sought out vulnerable, deeply-impoverished children in foreign countries and offered money in exchange for sexual access. Mr. Smith’s conduct demonstrates a shocking and callous objectification of vulnerable victims,” said U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref. “This case highlights the importance of vigilance against all forms of child exploitation. Law enforcement learned about Mr. Smith based solely on images that Facebook reported, but the thorough investigation revealed his conduct was even more severe than downloading images from the Internet. It is only because we take child pornography so seriously that authorities were able to apprehend a person who perpetrated repeated hands-on sexual abuse of many vulnerable boys from around the world.” “Mr. Smith’s conduct demonstrates the lengths to which child abusers go to exploit their victims and share this graphic material across the Internet,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “I cannot stress enough to parents how important it is for them to know who their children interact with online, just as much as they know who their children spend time with in real life. Protection of victims is a global priority for HSI, whether they are in Richland and the Tri-Cities or the Philippines and Guatemala. In cases like this, our Project Angel Watch prevents and deters further exploitation of children by alerting authorities to the international travel plans of individuals convicted of sex crimes against children.” “Cases like this demonstrate how child exploitation cases defy traditional jurisdictions,” said Richland Police Chief Brigit Clary. “We know these offenders leverage technology to feed their destructive lifestyle, but we are committed to using our skills, our technology, and our partnerships to pursue these offenders, even across international borders, to deliver justice for our children.” This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the U.S. Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. 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 sexually exploit children, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.justice.gov/psc . This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Southeast Regional ICAC Task Force, and the Richland Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Alison L. Gregoire and David M. Herzog, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the Eastern District of Washington. 4:20-CR-06033-MKD