title: Former CEO Of Medical Device Company Convicted Of Creating And Selling A Fake Component That Was Implanted Into Patients

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that a jury returned a guilty verdict today against LAURA PERRYMAN on two counts of an Indictment charging her with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud and substantive health care fraud in connection with her company’s creation and sale of a fake medical device component. U.S. District Judge Denise L. Cote presided over the 11-day trial. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Laura Perryman brazenly created a dummy medical device component — made entirely out of plastic — to be implanted into patients. She marketed that dummy component as a means for doctors to bill Medicare and private insurance companies approximately $18,000 for each implantation of the piece of plastic. She did this so that she could entice doctors to buy her device for many thousands of dollars. Perryman recklessly used patients as tools for financial gain, and this jury’s unanimous verdict sends a resounding message that individuals who defraud health care programs will be held criminally accountable.” According to the allegations in the Indictment and the evidence at trial: Stimwave was a medical device company that manufactured and distributed implantable neurostimulation devices. As the founder and CEO of Stimwave, PERRYMAN oversaw the design of the StimQ PNS System (the “Device”), pictured below, a neurostimulator system designed to treat chronic pain by providing electrical currents to peripheral nerves. The Device included a component containing electrodes (the “Lead”) and a receiver component that acted as an antenna, transmitting energy from an external power source to the Lead (the “Pink Stylet”). From at least in or about 2017 up to and including 2020, PERRYMAN, as Stimwave’s CEO, engaged in a multi-year scheme to design, create, manufacture, and market an inert, non-functioning component of the Device — called the “White Stylet.” The White Stylet was marketed as a receiver of radiofrequency energy, but it was made of plastic and could not function as a receiver. Stimwave sold the Device to doctors and medical providers for approximately $16,000. Stimwave instructed health care providers to bill medical insurance providers, including Medicare, for implanting the Device into patients through two separate reimbursement codes. One code was for implantation of the stimulator portion of the Lead, and a second was for implantation of a receiver. The billing code for implanting the Lead provided for reimbursement at a rate of between approximately $4,000 and $6,000, while the billing code for implanting a receiver provided for reimbursement at a rate of between approximately $16,000 and $18,000. Soon after the Device was released, physicians informed Stimwave that they were having trouble implanting the Pink Stylet in certain patients because the Pink Stylet was too long. Stimwave and PERRYMAN knew that the Pink Stylet could not be cut or trimmed to shorten it without interfering with the functionality of the Pink Stylet as a receiver. And, without a receiver component for doctors to implant and seek reimbursement for, doctors would incur a substantial financial loss with every purchase of the Device, thereby making it more difficult for Stimwave to sell the Device to doctors and medical providers at the approximately $16,000 price. However, Stimwave — at the direction of PERRYMAN — did not lower the price of the Device so that its cost to doctors and medical providers could be covered by reimbursement for the implantation of only the Lead. Nor did PERRYMAN recommend that doctors not implant the Device or its receiver component in cases where the Pink Stylet could not fit comfortably. Instead, PERRYMAN directed that Stimwave create the White Stylet — a dummy component made entirely of plastic, but which Stimwave misrepresented to doctors as a receiver alternative to the Pink Stylet. The White Stylet could be cut to size by the doctor for use in smaller anatomical spaces and was created solely so that doctors and medical providers would continue to purchase the Device for use in those scenarios and continue to bill for the implantation of a receiver component. To perpetuate the lie that the White Stylet was functional, PERRYMAN oversaw training that suggested to doctors that the White Stylet was a “receiver,” when in fact it was made entirely of plastic, contained no copper, and therefore had no conductivity. In addition, PERRYMAN directed other Stimwave employees to vouch for the efficacy of the White Stylet as a receiver, when she knew that the White Stylet could not function as a receiver. As a result of these misrepresentations regarding the functionality of the White Stylet, PERRYMAN caused doctors and medical providers to implant the White Stylet into patients and submit reimbursement claims for implantation of the White Stylet to health insurance providers, including Medicare. * * * PERRYMAN, 55, of Delray Beach, Florida, was convicted of one count of health care fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison, and one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The statutory maximum sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant would be determined by the judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case is being handled by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacob Bergman, Mónica Folch, Steven Kochevar, and Kimberly Ravener, with the assistance of Paralegal Specialists Joseph Carbone and Benjamin Wasserburg, are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Sedalia Dentist Sentenced for $617,000 Tax Evasion

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Sedalia, Mo., dentist was sentenced in federal court today for concealing more than $617,000 in earnings from the IRS over a six-year period. Nohaud Naseef Azan, 66, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark to one year and one day in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Azan to pay $269,517 in restitution to the IRS. On Dec. 15, 2022, Azan pleaded guilty to one count of attempting to interfere with the administration of internal revenue laws. Azan operates his own dental practice in Sedalia. In 2011, the IRS audited Azan and his practice in connection with the improper deduction of personal expenses on his corporate tax returns over the three prior years. Azan admitted that, in response to the audit and in an effort for his business to continue to pay for personal expenses, he cashed patients’ checks written out to the dental practice or deposited them into a personal bank account. The IRS identified more than 1,000 checks Azan cashed or deposited from 2011 through 2018. Azan admitted that he used funds from the cashed checks for personal expenses, such as his gambling habit, and failed to report them as income on his personal and corporate tax returns. According to court documents, Azan cashed $617,472 in patients’ checks, which he diverted for gambling and other personal expenses, from 2013 to 2018. The total tax loss to the IRS for that six-year period was $269,517. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron M. Maness. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.


title: District Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms and Drug Trafficking Offenses

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

body_text: WASHINGTON – Christopher Norece Mitchell, 25, of Washington, D.C., pleaded guilty today to federal firearms and drug trafficking offenses stemming from his possession of three loaded firearms and distributable quantities of narcotics on April 20, 2023, in the Chinatown neighborhood of Northwest Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves; Special Agent in Charge Craig Kailimai of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Mitchell pleaded guilty in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia to one count of unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition by a person convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year and one count of possession with intent to distribute N,N-Dimethylpentylone, a Schedule I controlled substance. The Honorable Jia M. Cobb scheduled sentencing for July 9, 2024. According to plea documents, in the early afternoon hours of April 20, 2023, members of the Metropolitan Police Department approached a group of men who were loitering on private property in the District’s Chinatown neighborhood. As the men left the area, one took a black plastic bag off a fence post and threw it into a public trash can. The officers recovered the bag, which contained a distributable quantity of marijuana, a digital scale, empty plastic bags consistent drug distribution, and a key for a nearby SUV. Minutes later, Mitchell arrived on scene and claimed the SUV belonged to his mother. Mitchell consented to a search of his person, which yielded almost $4,000 in U.S. currency and distributable quantities of drugs that were later determined to include fentanyl and the synthetic stimulant N,N-Dimethylpentylone. Officers also searched the SUV and recovered additional N,N-Dimethylpentylone among other drugs, along with additional scales. Officers also recovered three loaded Glock firearms and additional ammunition. Subsequent DNA testing and analysis tied Mitchell to the firearms. On May 18, 2023, a federal grand jury indicted Mitchell on firearms and drug trafficking offenses. Mitchell was arrested on May 19, 2023, and has remained in custody since. Federal law prohibits Mitchell from possessing a firearm because he previously was convicted in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia for crimes punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Mitchell faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine on the firearms count and a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison and up to a $2,000,000 fine on the drug trafficking count. The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentence imposed in this case will be determined by the Court after considering the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Metropolitan Police Department as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Valuable assistance was provided by the Drug Enforcement Administration Mid-Atlantic Laboratory and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia. The case was indicted by former Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Rick Kelley and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul V. Courtney.


title: U.S. Attorney Announces Completion Of Joint Law Enforcement Operation Designed To Target Areas Of High Rates Of Violent Crime And Opioid Overdoses

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: SCRANTON- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced the completion of a joint federal and state operation designed to target areas of high rates of violent crime and opioid overdoses within the Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania area of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the United States Attorney’s Office in coordination with the DEA, the United States Marshals Service, the Pennsylvania State Police, the Wilkes-Barre City Police Department, and the Wilkes-Barre Township Police Department conducted Operation Overdrive – a law enforcement initiative designed to disrupt violent crime and drug trafficking within specified areas of Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania. Extensive research of 2023 data of violent crime and opioid overdose incidents within Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania identified two specific zones within the city in which a high number of violent crimes occurred together with frequent opioid poisoning. These two zones were identified to be the most violent areas of the city with a combined 39% of violent crimes occurring during the calendar year. The two zones also contained a higher rate of opioid overdoses, with 35% of such incidents occurring within Wilkes-Barre. Law enforcement agents from federal, state, and local agencies coordinated efforts over a six-month period beginning in September 2023, to target drug trafficking organizations operating within Wilkes-Barre, with an eye on disrupting, dismantling, and arresting targets operating within the two zones identified by data analysis. The Scranton, Pennsylvania office of the DEA in coordination with the DEA Long Island (New York) District Office executed three federal search warrants associated with the leader of a targeted drug trafficking organization operating in Wilkes-Barre, Pennsylvania and Long Island, New York. These searches resulted in the arrest of four individuals, and the seizure of 7.6 kilograms of fentanyl; 100 counterfeit pills; 3 pounds of highly pure crystal methamphetamine; 100 grams of crack cocaine; and two firearms. In addition to this highly successful investigation Operation Overdrive enforcement operations resulted in the arrest of four additional unrelated drug traffickers and the seizure of more than four kilograms of fentanyl; 540 grams of crack cocaine; 640 grams of cocaine; more than a kilogram of highly pure crystal methamphetamine; and five additional firearms. As these efforts were underway, the United States Marshals Service ran Operation Washout, a parallel initiative to locate and arrest violent fugitives hiding in Wilkes-Barre and surrounding areas of Luzerne County, Pennsylvania. The United States Marshals Fugitive Task Force arrested 43 fugitives. All these individuals were violent offenders with open arrest warrants. One of these individuals has since been indicted by a federal grand jury in Scranton for drug trafficking and firearms possession discovered at the time of his arrest. Another fugitive arrested during the operation is under federal investigation for similar crimes. Of the arrests made by the United States Marshals Service five were wanted for homicide crimes; five for firearms related crimes (separate from the homicide fugitives); nine for narcotics crimes; and six for sex related felonies. The United States Marshals Service also seized six firearms; ½ kilogram of fentanyl; 27 grams of heroin; 74 grams of cocaine/crack cocaine; and more than 350 grams of highly pure crystal methamphetamine during the arrests. The results of this law enforcement coordination have shown significant signs of lowering drug related violence and opioid poisonings in Wilkes-Barre. For example, from January 2023 through February 2023, the Wilkes-Barre Police Department reported 15 violent crime incidents (33 violent crimes per 100,000 persons) and 20 opioid poisonings (45 per 100,000 persons). Comparatively, from January 2024 through February 2024, the Wilkes-Barre Police Department reported 11 violent crime incidents (24 violent crimes per 100,000 persons) and eight opioid poisonings (18 opioid poisonings per 100,000 persons). More specifically, Zone 1 had 0 violent crime incidents and two opioid poisonings while Zone 2 had one violent crime incident and 0 opioid poisonings. That’s a 100 percent decrease of violent crime in Zone 1 and a 50 percent decrease in opioid poisonings, while Zone 2 showed a 67 percent decrease in violent crime and a 100 percent decrease in opioid poisonings. “The goal of Operation Overdrive was to disrupt drug-trafficking organizations that pose the greatest threats to our communities,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Philadelphia Field Division. “The joint work of the DEA, Pennsylvania State Police, Wilkes-Barre City Police Department, and Wilkes-Barre Township Police Department did exactly that – together they prevented the distribution of over 531,000 potentially lethal doses of fentanyl in the Wilkes-Barre area. I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their support of this initiative and the U.S. Marshals Service for their concurrent efforts in arresting violent fugitives across Luzerne County.” "Operation Washout has successfully targeted and apprehended dangerous fugitives, removing threats from our streets,” said U.S. Marshal William Pugh. “Working in parallel with Operation Overdrive exemplifies law enforcement’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding our communities." “The City of Wilkes-Barre and the Wilkes-Barre Police Department appreciate the efforts of the DEA, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said Chief Joseph Coffay, Wilkes-Barre Police Department. “This successful operation could not have been achieved without the combined efforts of local, state and federal authorities.” Operation Overdrive is an initiative by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in coordination with the Pennsylvania State Police, the Wilkes-Barre City Police, and the Wilkes-Barre Police Department. Operation Washout is an initiative by the United States Marshals Service in coordination with the Pennsylvania State Police, and the Pennsylvania Parole Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd K. Hinkley is the Project Safe Neighborhoods Coordinator for the Middle District of Pennsylvania and represented the United States Attorney on the two related law enforcement operations. Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is 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. These criminal cases were also 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. Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Keystone Heights Multi-Convicted Felon Arrested For Possession Of Ammunition By A Convicted Felon

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Allen Tereal Grimes (33, Keystone Heights) with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. If convicted, Grimes faces up to 15 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Grimes that the United States intends to forfeit ammunition, which is alleged to be traceable to his offense. Grimes made his initial appearance in federal court on March 4, 2024, and was ordered detained. According to the indictment, on August 11, 2023, Grimes was in possession of Winchester 9mm ammunition. At the time of the incident, Grimes had seven prior felony convictions, including battery on a law enforcement officer, resisting arrest with violence, fleeing and eluding a police officer, felony battery, and assault with intent to commit to a felony. As a previously convicted felon, Grimes is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. 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 Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein. 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: Two Men Sentenced for Trafficking Methamphetamine from Jail

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Two men were sentenced to federal prison for the distribution of methamphetamine in Hampshire County. Jimmey Lee Lambert, age 37, of Hampshire County, was sentenced today to 188 months for methamphetamine trafficking. Wes Allen Barrett, age 33, of Springfield, West Virginia, was sentenced to 140 months for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, Barrett dealt drugs by phone for fellow inmate, Jimmy Lee Lambert, while incarcerated at the Potomac Highlands Regional Jail. Lambert then asked his father, Timmey Lambert, Sr., and his juvenile daughter to sell the methamphetamine while he was incarcerated. Investigators searched Timmy Lambert, Sr.’s house in Hampshire County and found nearly 140 grams of meth, 16 firearms, $4100 in counterfeit money, two scales, and a bulletproof vest. Barrett and Lambert will each serve three years of supervised release following their prison sentences. Timmey Lambert, Sr., was sentenced in January 2024 to 108 months in prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Kane prosecuted the cases on behalf of the government. The Potomac Highlands Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funding initiative, investigated. U.S. District Judge Gina M. Groh presided. ###


title: Leominster Man Sentenced to Six Years in Prison for Drug Offenses

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Leominster was sentenced today in federal court in Worcester for possessing large quantities of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine intended for distribution. Chanhda Onesyvieng, 49, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Margaret R. Guzman to six years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. In July 2023, Onesyvieng pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. In early April 2023, Onesyvieng was identified as a drug distributor who was distributing significant quantities of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine in Rhode Island. On April 28, 2023, approximately two kilograms of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine and approximately 135 grams of cocaine were seized from Onesyvieng’s vehicle during a traffic stop in Worcester. A subsequent search of the defendant’s residence in Leominster resulted in the seizure of approximately one kilogram of counterfeit Adderall pills containing methamphetamine, approximately one kilogram of cocaine and approximately $60,000 in cash. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and John. E. Mawn Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Danial E. Bennett of the Worcester Branch Office prosecuted the case.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office food distribution events valued greatly by local residents

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – Two large tents, a dozen plastic tables, and staff members eager to serve recently lined an area in front of Wells Recreation Center in Riviera Beach, Fla. The goal? To feed 500 families. And it’s a goal the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) for the Southern District of Florida meets each week. It’s a partnership between Law Enforcement Coordination and Community Outreach Section (LEC/COS) staff, local police, parks and recreation, and Farm Share Inc., which provides the bread, canned goods, pasta, and poultry. Each Tuesday beginning at 9 a.m. all over the USAO footprint, these partners work to put food on the tables of those in need. “The collaboration makes these distributions successful,” said LEC/COS Chief J.D. Smith. “And the parks/recreation centers provide a perfect backdrop. They are community staples, well known, with great access for local residents.” Those who attend a food distribution can receive upward of 40 pounds of free food items depending on household size. And their appreciation shows at each food distribution. “Bless you and thank you all for doing what you do,” said a grateful Riviera Beach resident. “We appreciate you.” The positive feedback goes a long way with LEC/COS staff, reminding them how important these events are to the community. “It feels good to know that we’re making a difference in so many peoples’ lives,” said Community Outreach Specialist Corey Mackay. “These food distributions are something I look forward to. I enjoy interacting with members of our community.” The food drives alternate between parks in Riviera Beach and Fort Lauderdale to ones in several Miami locations. “We try to organize these food distributions in areas that have the most food insecurity,” said Smith. “We’ve been doing these for years and the demand has remained consistent. We’re honored to be able to host these events. Community service is what drives our unit. There is nothing more important.” Anyone interested in volunteering at a food drive may call the USAO Violence Reduction Partnership at (305) 961-9134. People interested in attending a food distribution may visit Farm Share’s website at https://www.farmshare.org/food-distributions-florida or call (305) 246-3276. Staff and volunteers from the Law Enforcement Coordination and Community Outreach Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office serve community members in Riviera Beach during a recent food distribution event. Staff hold these food distributions weekly, serving approximately 500 households. ###


title: Validated Gang Member and Six-Time Wilmington Felon Receives Over 17 Years for Carjacking and Firearm Offense

body_text: WILMINGTON, N.C. – Unque Tyshaun Temoney, age 29, was sentenced today to 210 months in federal prison for carjacking and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On November 29, 2023, Temoney pled guilty to the charges. “We will not normalize armed robbery, carjacking, and dangerous high-speed flight in Eastern North Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “Cases like this, involving validated gang members and repeat violent felons, are ripe for federal prosecution. For years, New Hanover County has funded a special prosecutor to work with our office to bring cases like this one to federal court. Our Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) partnership with Chief Williams and Sheriff McMahon uses that resource to take felons like Unque Temoney off the streets and on the fast track to federal prison.” “I’ve said it before and I’ll emphasize it again, firearms in the hands of convicted felons is something that we will not tolerate in the City of Wilmington,” said Chief Donny Williams. “We will continue to devote countless hours to ensuring that these violent offenders are kept off our streets. As we have seen both locally and nationwide, dangerous situations happen when weapons fall into the hands of the wrong people. I want to thank our women and men for their dedication to this effort and I am also grateful to our partner agencies for assisting with this important case. Because of their continued hard work and dedication, this offender will no longer be able to harm our community.” According to court documents and other information presented in court, on December 5, 2020, officers with the Wilmington Police Department responded to a call on 9 th Street in Wilmington regarding an armed robbery and carjacking. A responding officer saw the victim’s vehicle drive off at a high rate of speed and he activated his lights and sirens to initiate a traffic stop. The driver, later identified as Temoney, refused to stop and fled from law enforcement. Temoney ultimately crashed the vehicle into a parked car and fled on foot from law enforcement. After a brief pursuit, Temoney was apprehended. After speaking with the victim and eyewitnesses on scene, the investigation revealed that Temoney put on a ski mask, brandished a revolver, and took the victim’s car keys and wallet before stealing the victim’s vehicle and fleeing from the police. The arresting officer on scene located a .380 revolver, loaded with five rounds of ammunition, on the driver’s seat of the vehicle Temoney stole. Laboratory testing later confirmed that Temoney’s DNA was on the firearm. Temoney has been previously convicted of six felony offenses to include – possession of a stolen motor vehicle, two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, breaking and entering, assault with a deadly weapon inflicting serious injury, and possession with intent to manufacture, sell, and deliver a counterfeit controlled substance. Temoney was also out on bond for numerous state charges when he committed the offense. Temoney has been previously validated as a member of the Gangster Disciple Street Gang by the Wilmington Police Department and by the North Carolina Department of Public Safety. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Federal Bureau of Investigation Coastal Carolina Safe Street’s Gang Task Force, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Wilmington Police Department, and the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case and Special Assistant United States Attorney William Van Trigt and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charity Wilson prosecuted the case. Special Assistant United States Attorney William Van Trigt represents the government. Van Trigt is a prosecutor with the New Hanover County District Attorney’s Office assigned to the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute federal violent crimes and other criminal matters. This has been made possible by a grant funded by New Hanover County. This conviction is a result of the ongoing VCAP initiative which is collaborative effort with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, working with the community, to identify and address the most significant drivers of violent crime. VCAP involves focused and strategic enforcement, and interagency coordination and intelligence-led policing. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:22-cr-00092-D-001.


title: Traffic Stop in Calcasieu Parish Leads to Discovery of Cocaine in Vehicle

body_text: LAKE CHARLES, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced the sentencing of two men in Lake Charles yesterday on drug and firearms charges. United States District Judge James D. Cain, Jr. sentenced the defendants as follows: Darwin Jose Escalante-Garache , 36, a nonresident of the United States living in Gulfport, Mississippi , was sentenced to 46 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute cocaine. The charges stem from a traffic stop conducted on Interstate 10 in Calcasieu Parish on September 8, 2022, by Louisiana State Police troopers. During the stop, a K-9 officer alerted positive to the odor of narcotics emitting from Escalante-Garache’s vehicle. A search of the vehicle resulted in the discovery and seizure of one kilogram of cocaine hidden in the backseat pocket of the vehicle. The defendant admitted to possessing the cocaine with the intent to distribute to others. Escalante-Garache pleaded guilty to the charge on November 13, 2023. The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and Louisiana State Police and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney LaDonte A. Murphy. In a separate case and unrelated case, Toni January , 25, of Lake Charles, was sentenced to 26 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. On March 20, 2021, a search warrant was executed by law enforcement officers at the residence of January. During the search, officers found a Glock Model 17 9mm pistol and other firearms. January was subsequently arrested and admitted that the Glock Model 17 firearm belonged to him. January has prior felony convictions for illegal possession of stolen things in 2017 and nonconsensual disclosure of a private image and possession of controlled substances in 2020. He was charged in this case with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and pleaded guilty on October 25, 2023. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Lake Charles Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel J. Vermaelen. # # #


title: Taos Compound Defendants Sentenced

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, announced today that Jany Leveille, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, his sisters Hujrah Wahhaj and Subhanah Wahhaj, and Subhanah’s husband, Lucas Morton, appeared before a federal judge for sentencing. Siraj, Hujrah and Subhanah Wahhaj, and Lucas Morton were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Per the terms of her plea agreement, Leveille was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Upon her release from prison, Leveille will enter removal proceedings. On Oct. 17, 2023, after a three-week trial, a federal jury convicted Siraj Wahhaj and Lucas Morton of conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists, providing material support to terrorists and conspiracy to murder an officer or employee of the United States. Hujrah Wahhaj, Subhanah Wahhaj and Lucas Morton were additionally convicted of conspiracy to commit kidnapping resulting in death and kidnapping resulting in death. Jany Leveille pled guilty to conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists and being in possession of a firearm while unlawfully in the United States on Aug. 8, 2023. According to publicly available court records, in December of 2017, the group, led by Leveille, abducted Siraj Wahhaj’s three-year-old son, Abdul Ghani, from his mother in Georgia and transported him to a remote property in Amalia, New Mexico. The group intended to use the child as a prop in a plan to rid the world of purportedly corrupt institutions, including the FBI, CIA, and U.S. military, and to kill those who did not convert and follow Leveille. The planning and training for this conspiracy took place at a heavily fortified, purpose-built, militarized compound in Amalia. After Abdul Ghani died at the compound, Leveille prophesized, and the rest of the group believed, that Abdul Ghani was going to resurrect on Easter, which was April 1, 2018, and that he would lead the group to face society and kill those who did not join them. In response, the group’s firearms and tactical training ramped up in frequency, intensity, and complexity in anticipation of the Easter resurrection. When Abdul Ghani did not resurrect on Easter, Leveille began to talk about him returning around the time of his birthday (August 6, 2018) or as Subhanah Wahhaj’s soon-to-be born child. On Aug. 3, 2018, the Taos County Sheriff's Office's Tactical SRT Unit integrated with agents from New Mexico Office of the Superintendent of Insurance and executed warrants on the heavily fortified compound. SRT was able to secure the compound and the suspects without incident or a single shot fired. Additionally, the children in the compound were secured and safely turned over to child welfare authorities. While clearing the compound, weapons, ammunition, and training documents were discovered confirming intelligence that had been received. During a subsequent search of the compound on Aug. 6, 2018, Abdul Ghani’s birthday, law enforcement located the remains of Abdul Ghani in an underground tunnel. The investigation found Abdul died on Christmas Eve, 2017, before anyone was aware the group was in New Mexico. “All of the children are all of our children, and loss of any child is a loss to us all,” said U.S. Attorney Uballez. “The horrifying events of 2017 and 2018 played out in graphic detail during this trial: from radical ideologies to violent extremist beliefs, the banality of everyday life centered around the corpse of a dead child within a fortified compound in rural New Mexico. But at its heart, this case is about the senseless death of three-year-old Abdul Ghani. As a father, I offer my deepest condolences as well as my gratitude to our federal law enforcement partners, the Taos County Sheriff’s Office, DOJ’s National Security Division, and my trial team for delivering justice.” “The sentences imposed today send a clear message: The FBI takes its mission of protecting the American public seriously, and we will continue to work diligently to uncover and stop all terrorism efforts whether it be by large scale organizations or small US-based violent extremist participating in self-initiated attack plotting as seen in this case,” said Special Agent in Charge Raul Bujanda. “While today’s sentencing cannot take away the pain or fill the void of the innocent child who was kidnapped and subsequently lost his life, I sincerely hope there is some comfort in knowing that those who committed this terrible crime have been brought to justice. The FBI would like to thank all of our local, state and federal partners, the US Attorney’s Office, and specifically the Taos County Sheriff’s Office for their diligent work on this case, which removed the threat posed by these dangerous criminals to potentially conduct attacks on US soil against innocent people.” “Through integrated teamwork, an extremely high-risk operation was successfully conducted against an established terror group in which warrants were executed and suspects were taken into custody without a single shot being fired, denying them of the fulfillment of their intended terrorist intentions. All Deputies and suspects were uninjured and most importantly above all else, 11 children were removed from harm’s way without injury,” said Taos County Sheriff Steve Miera. “On behalf of the People of Taos County, I would like to sincerely extend our gratitude to the NM Office of the Superintendent of Insurance (OSI), FBI, US Attorney’s Office, and its support staff, the Eighth Judicial District Attorney’s Office, as well as the NM DHS.” The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Taos County Sheriff’s Office, NM Office of the Superintendent of Insurance, and the 8th Judicial District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Brawley and Tavo Hall for the District of New Mexico and Trial Attorneys Jessica Joyce and George Kraehe of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case. # # # 24-98


title: Level-2 Sex Offender Pleads Guilty To Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: BOSTON – A Chelsea man pleaded guilty today to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Lasall Johnson, 55, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography before U.S. District Court Judge Leo T. Sorokin who scheduled a sentencing for June 5, 2024. Johnson was charged by criminal complaint in March 2023 and subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2023. Johnson was identified as a user in an online peer to peer file sharing network exchanging CSAM. During a search of Johnson’s residence, six electronic devices were seized from his bedroom. Forensic examination of the devices recovered hundreds of CSAM image and video files. In 1989, Johnson was convicted in Norfolk County Superior Court of two counts of assault to rape, for which he received a 20-year state prison sentence with two years committed and the balance suspended for 18 years. As a result of those convictions, Johnson is a Level-2 registered sex offender. Due to Johnson’s prior convictions, the charge of possession of child pornography provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Chelsea Police Chief Keith Houghton made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Suzanne Sullivan Jacobus of the Major Crimes Unit is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Man Convicted of Multiple Child Exploitation Offenses

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A federal jury convicted a Nevada man yesterday for sexually exploiting multiple minors, and advertising and distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) that he coerced these minors into producing. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between 2018 and 2021, James Patrick Burns, 55, of Sparks, sexually exploited multiple minors online via Omegle, Snapchat, Tiktok, and Mega.NZ. Burns, a registered sex offender, threatened these minors into producing CSAM and then posted the CSAM on dark web forums. At the time, Burns was the most prolific creator of illegal content on these forums. He victimized over 100 children, many of whom have yet to be identified. Burns’ offenses came to the attention of law enforcement when a mother of one of his victims saw threats on the victim’s phone and reported what she saw to the police. The jury convicted Burns of eight counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, eight counts of coercion and enticement of a minor, and one count each of advertising, receiving, distributing, and possessing child pornography. In a separate trial, the jury also convicted Burns of committing specified felony offenses (from the first trial) while required to register as a sex offender. Burns is scheduled to be sentenced on June 10. He faces a mandatory minimum of at least 25 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada, Assistant Director Michael Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Christopher Miller of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Las Vegas made the announcement. The FBI-led Northern Nevada Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, which is comprised of detectives and investigators from the Sparks Police Department, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Nevada Attorney General’s Office, and HSI, investigated the case. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Office, HSI Chicago Field Office, and local law enforcement around the country provided substantial assistance. Trial Attorney Rachel L. Rothberg of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Andolyn R. Johnson for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Woodbridge man sentenced for federal drug trafficking and firearm crimes after vehicle pursuit from a shooting

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Woodbridge man was sentenced today to eight years in prison for fentanyl trafficking and firearm offenses. According to court documents, on March 26, 2023, a Prince William County Police Department officer observed a vehicle matching one described leaving the scene of a shooting at which a victim was struck by a stray bullet in her apartment. After a brief pursuit, the vehicle stopped, and Alhajie Alpha Kamara, 20, and two other individuals abandoned the vehicle and fled on foot. During the chase, Kamara dropped a loaded .40-caliber handgun and a jacket. Inside the jacket were 494 fentanyl pills, Kamara’s iPhone, approximately $560 in cash, and a black ski mask. Kamara was later arrested after being subdued by a bystander. While searching the vehicle from which Kamara had fled, police found two additional firearms, including one that was modified with a “Glock-switch” as a machinegun conversion device. On Dec. 11, 2023, Kamara pleaded guilty to one count each of possession with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and knowingly carrying a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; and Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Washington Division made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Rossie D. Alston, Jr. The Commonwealth’s Attorney for Prince William County; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; Virginia State Police; Prince William County Police Department; and Arlington County Police Department assisted in the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Bredemeier and Special Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Carter prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 23-CR-149.


title: Former Alabama Sheriff’s Deputy Pleads Guilty to Federal Civil Rights Offense for Excessive Force

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: Former Elmore County, Alabama Sheriff’s Deputy Blake Hicks, 33, pleaded guilty yesterday to depriving an arrestee of his civil rights under color of law. According to documents and statements made in court, Hicks willfully used unreasonable force against an arrestee, identified as T.Q. Specifically, without legal justification, Hicks punched and kicked T.Q. in or around the head while T.Q. was handcuffed and incapacitated on the ground. T.Q. suffered a broken cheekbone, concussion and lacerations from Hicks’ assault. “Communities entrust law enforcement officers with upholding the rule of law,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “By physically assaulting a defenseless member of the community, Hicks violated both the victim’s fundamental constitutional rights and the community’s trust. The Justice Department will continue to ensure that law enforcement officials who abuse their powers are held accountable.” “Maintaining law and order in a civil society requires trust in law enforcement,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Jonathan S. Ross for the Middle District of Alabama. “Breaching that trust has consequences. Civil rights violations, such as this one, makes the job of every law enforcement officer in America more challenging, and more dangerous.” A sentencing hearing is scheduled for June 24. Hicks faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI Mobile Field Office investigated the case. Trial Attorney Laura-Kate Bernstein and Special Litigation Counsel Michael J. Songer of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Counts for the Middle District of Alabama are prosecuting the case.


title: Chinese National Residing In California Arrested For Theft Of Artificial Intelligence-Related Trade Secrets From Google

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: SAN FRANCISCO – A federal grand jury indicted Linwei Ding, aka Leon Ding, charging him with four counts of theft of trade secrets in connection with an alleged plan to steal from Google LLC (Google) proprietary information related to artificial intelligence (AI) technology. The announcement was made by Attorney General Merrick B. Garland this afternoon while participating in a “Fireside Chat” at the American Bar Association’s 39th National Institute on White Collar Crime in San Francisco. U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey posted a statement about the case here: https://youtu.be/l64VlrA-GUA. According to the indictment, returned on March 5 and unsealed earlier today, Ding, 38, a national of the People’s Republic of China and resident of Newark, California, stole sensitive Google trade secrets and other confidential information from Google’s network to his personal account while secretly affiliating himself with PRC-based companies in the AI industry. Ding was arrested earlier this morning in Newark. “The Justice Department will not tolerate the theft of artificial intelligence and other advanced technologies that could put our national security at risk,” said Attorney General Garland. “In this case, we allege the defendant stole artificial intelligence-related trade secrets from Google while secretly working for two companies based in China. We will fiercely protect sensitive technologies developed in America from falling into the hands of those who should not have them.” “While we work to responsibly harness the benefits of AI, the Justice Department is on high alert to its risks, including global threats to our national security,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “As alleged in today’s charges, the defendant stole from Google over 500 confidential files containing AI trade secrets, while covertly working for China-based companies seeking an edge in the AI technology race. The Justice Department will relentlessly pursue and hold accountable those who would siphon disruptive technologies – especially AI – for unlawful export.” “While Linwei Ding was employed as a software engineer at Google, he was secretly working to enrich himself and two companies based in the People’s Republic of China,” said U.S. Attorney Ismail Ramsey. “By stealing Google’s trade secrets about its artificial intelligence supercomputing systems, Ding gave himself and the companies that he affiliated with in the PRC an unfair competitive advantage. This office is committed to protecting the innovation of our Silicon Valley companies. To that end, we will aggressively investigate and prosecute the theft of sensitive trade secrets by insiders like Ding, particularly when the theft endeavors to jump start illegitimate competition.” “Today’s charges are the latest illustration of the lengths affiliates of companies based in the People’s Republic of China are willing to go to steal American innovation,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “The theft of innovative technology and trade secrets from American companies can cost jobs and have devastating economic and national security consequences. The FBI will continue its efforts to vigorously pursue those responsible for stealing U.S. companies’ intellectual property and most closely guarded secrets.” “The FBI’s area of responsibility is home to internationally renowned innovation and cutting-edge technology. Unfortunately, this makes many businesses a target for criminals looking to steal crucial proprietary information, " said FBI Special Agent in Charge Robert Tripp. "This case exemplifies our commitment to protecting U.S. technologies and our ability to accelerate priority investigations when we have a pre-established relationship with private sector companies.” “Mr. Ding allegedly schemed to siphon off cutting-edge AI technology from Google while secretly trying to go into business with Chinese competitors,” said Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division. “Through the Disruptive Technology Strike Force, we will work relentlessly to find and hold accountable those who would steal advanced American technology and jeopardize our national security and economic prosperity.” “In the one year since its inception, the Disruptive Technology Strike Force has been relentless in protecting advanced U.S. technologies, like artificial intelligence, from malign actors,” said Assistant Secretary Matthew S. Axelrod of the Commerce Department’s Office for Export Enforcement. “Let today’s announcement serve as further warning – those who would steal sensitive U.S. technology risk finding themselves on the wrong end of a criminal indictment.” According to court documents, the technology Ding allegedly stole involves the building blocks of Google’s advanced supercomputing data centers, which are designed to support machine learning workloads used to train and host large AI models. According to the indictment, large AI models are AI applications capable of understanding nuanced language and generating intelligent responses to prompts, tasks, or queries. The indictment describes how Google developed both proprietary hardware and software to facilitate the machine learning process powered by its supercomputing data centers. With respect to hardware, Google uses advanced computer chips with the extraordinary processing power required to facilitate machine learning and run AI applications. With respect to software, Google deploys several layers of software, referred to in the indictment as the “software platform,” to orchestrate machine learning workloads efficiently. For example, one component of the software platform is the Cluster Management System (CMS), which functions as the “brain” of Google’s supercomputing data centers. The CMS organizes, prioritizes, and assigns tasks to the hardware infrastructure, allowing the advanced chips to function efficiently when executing machine learning workloads or hosting AI applications. According to the indictment, Google hired Ding as a software engineer in 2019. Ding’s responsibilities included developing the software deployed in Google’s supercomputing data centers. In connection with his employment, Ding was granted access to Google’s confidential information related to the hardware infrastructure, the software platform, and the AI models and applications they supported. The indictment alleges that on May 21, 2022, Ding began secretly uploading trade secrets that were stored in Google’s network by copying the information into a personal Google Cloud account. According to the indictment, Ding continued periodic uploads until May 2, 2023, by which time Ding allegedly uploaded more than 500 unique files containing confidential information. In addition, the indictment alleges that Ding secretly affiliated himself with two PRC-based technology companies. According to the indictment, on or about June 13, 2022, Ding received several emails from the CEO of an early-stage technology company based in the PRC indicating Ding had been offered the position of Chief Technology Officer for the company. Ding allegedly traveled to the PRC on Oct. 29, 2022, and remained there until March 25, 2023, during which time he participated in investor meetings to raise capital for the new company. The indictment alleges potential investors were told Ding was the new company’s Chief Technology Officer and that Ding owned 20% of the company’s stock. According to the indictment, unbeknownst to Google, by no later than May 30, 2023, Ding had founded his own technology company in the AI and machine learning industry and was acting as the company’s CEO. Ding’s company touted the development of a software platform designed to accelerate machine learning workloads, including training large AI models. As alleged in the indictment, Ding applied to a PRC-based startup incubation program and traveled to Beijing, to present his company at an investor conference on Nov. 24, 2023. As set forth in the indictment, a document related to Ding’s startup company stated, “we have experience with Google's ten-thousand-card computational power platform; we just need to replicate and upgrade it - and then further develop a computational power platform suited to China's national conditions.” The indictment alleges Ding’s conduct violated his employment agreement as well as a separate code of conduct that Ding signed when he became a Google employee. Further, the indictment describes measures that Ding allegedly took to conceal his theft of the trade secrets. For example, he allegedly copied data from Google source files into the Apple Notes application on his Google-issued MacBook laptop. By then converting the Apple Notes into PDF files and uploading them from the Google network into as separate account, Ding allegedly evaded detection by Google’s data loss prevention systems. Likewise, the indictment describes how in December 2023 Ding allegedly permitted another Google employee to use his Google-issued access badge to scan into the entrance of a Google building – making it appear he was working from his U.S. Google office when, in fact, he was in the PRC. Ding is charged with four counts of theft of trade secrets. If convicted, Ding faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and up to a $250,000 fine for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI and Commerce Department are investigating the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of California and Justice Department National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case. Today’s action was coordinated through the Justice and Commerce Departments’ Disruptive Technology Strike Force. The Disruptive Technology Strike Force is an interagency law enforcement strike force co-led by the Departments of Justice and Commerce designed to target illicit actors, protect supply chains, and prevent critical technology from being acquired by authoritarian regimes and hostile nation-states. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ding_indictment_filed.pdf


title: Five New Mexico Compound Defendants Sentenced to Life in Prison in Connection with Kidnapping and Terrorism Plot

body_text: A federal judge in New Mexico today sentenced five defendants: Jany Leveille, Siraj Ibn Wahhaj, his sisters Hujrah Wahhaj and Subhanah Wahhaj, and Subhanah’s husband, Lucas Morton. Siraj, Hujrah and Subhanah Wahhaj, and Lucas Morton were sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole. Per the terms of her plea agreement, Leveille was sentenced to 15 years in prison. Upon her release from prison, Leveille will enter removal proceedings. On Oct. 17, 2023, after a three-week trial, a federal jury convicted Siraj Wahhaj and Lucas Morton of conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists, providing material support to terrorists and conspiracy to murder an officer or employee of the United States. Hujrah Wahhaj, Subhanah Wahhaj and Lucas Morton were additionally convicted of conspiracy to commit kidnapping resulting in death and kidnapping resulting in death. Jany Leveille pleaded guilty to conspiracy to provide material support to terrorists and being in possession of a firearm while unlawfully in the United States on Aug. 8, 2023. According to publicly available court records, in December 2017, the group, led by Leveille, abducted Siraj Wahhaj’s three-year-old son, Abdul Ghani, from his mother in Georgia and transported him to a remote property in Amalia, New Mexico. The group intended to use the child as a prop in a plan to rid the world of purportedly corrupt institutions, including the FBI, CIA, and U.S. military, and to kill those who did not convert and follow Leveille. The planning and training for this conspiracy took place at a heavily fortified, purpose-built, militarized compound in Amalia. After Abdul Ghani died at the compound, Leveille prophesized, and the rest of the group believed, that Abdul Ghani was going to resurrect on Easter, which was April 1, 2018, and that he would lead the group to face society and kill those who did not join them. In response, the group’s firearms and tactical training ramped up in frequency, intensity, and complexity in anticipation of the Easter resurrection. When Abdul Ghani did not resurrect on Easter, Leveille began to talk about him returning around the time of his birthday (Aug. 6, 2018) or as Subhanah Wahhaj’s soon-to-be born child. On Aug. 3, 2018, the Taos County Sheriff’s Office’s Tactical SRT Unit integrated with agents from New Mexico Office of the Superintendent of Insurance and executed warrants on the heavily fortified compound. SRT was able to secure the compound and the suspects without incident or a single shot fired. Additionally, the children in the compound were secured and safely turned over to child welfare authorities. While clearing the compound, weapons, ammunition, and training documents were discovered confirming intelligence that had been received. During a subsequent search of the compound on Aug. 6, 2018, Abdul Ghani’s birthday, law enforcement located the remains of Abdul Ghani in an underground tunnel. The investigation found Abdul died on Christmas Eve, 2017, before anyone was aware the group was in New Mexico. The FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Taos County Sheriff’s Office, NM Office of the Superintendent of Insurance, and the 8th Judicial District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kimberly Brawley and Tavo Hall for the District of New Mexico and Trial Attorneys Jessica Joyce and George Kraehe of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted the case.


title: Aberdeen Man Sentenced to 8 Years for Felony Death by Motor Vehicle in DWI Crash on Fort Liberty

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – An Aberdeen man was sentenced to 96 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release following a fatal DWI crash in January of 2023. Joel Newton Brewer, age 34, pled guilty to felony death by motor vehicle on November 30, 2023. According to court documents and other information presented in court, on January 3, 2023, United States Army Military Police responded to emergency calls regarding a traffic collision at Fort Bragg Military Reservation (now Fort Liberty). Officers arrived to find two vehicles involved in the crash. One vehicle contained Brewer and the other contained an infant passenger with serious injuries. The driver of the vehicle with the infant had been ejected upon impact. The investigation revealed that Brewer was driving 89 miles per hour in a 55 miles per hour zone as he drove left of the center line and struck the front of the victim’s vehicle. The victim then lost control of her vehicle and it veered toward the right shoulder of the road. When the victim’s vehicle came to a stop, the victim was ejected from the vehicle and partially decapitated. She was pronounced dead at the scene. The infant suffered life-threatening injuries but survived. Brewer’s alcohol concentration was 0.15. In North Carolina, it is illegal to drive a vehicle while noticeably impaired or with an alcohol concentration of 0.08 or higher. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the sentencing was concluded. U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III presided over the sentencing. The Office of Provost Marshal and Army Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sebastian Kielmanovich and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Brickey prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-CR-00146-D-RN.


title: Gun smuggler sent to prison for second illegal re-entry conviction

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: LAREDO, Texas – A 23-year-old Mexican man has been sentenced following another conviction for illegally re-entering the United States following an order of removal, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Jose Luis Arevalo Gonzalez pleaded guilty Jan. 4. U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo has now ordered Arevalo to serve 23 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. Not a U.S. citizen, Arevalo is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard how Arevalo was a member of the Paisas gang and was previously convicted of trafficking firearms. In that case, law enforcement discovered Arevalo was attempting to smuggle 11 semi-automatic rifles and 85 rifle magazines into Mexico. Arevalo was released from prison Oct. 18, 2023, and was ordered removed the following week. A week after his removal, authorities encountered Arevalo near Laredo. Arevalo will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Border Patrol conducted the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Terence A. Check Jr. prosecuted the case.


title: District Man Charged with First-Degree Murder for Killing a Teenager on the Metro

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON- Keith Williams, 23, of the District of Columbia, was indicted today on the charge of first-degree murder while armed for the shooting death of 17-year-old Brendan Ofori, on board a green line Metro rail car, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves. The Honorable Michael O’Keefe ordered that Williams be held without bond pending trial. According to the indictment, on May 28, 2023, Williams and the victim were both traveling on the Metro rail system separately. Surveillance video captured the victim get on a southbound Green Line train at the West Hyattsville Metro Station. The defendant was captured entering the Stadium Armory Metro Station and transferring to a Green Line train at L’Enfant Plaza Metro Station. At approximately 11:40 a.m., while both were on the same train traveling to the Waterfront station, Williams shot the victim multiple times following an altercation between the two. The victim was found to be unresponsive by emergency personnel and pronounced dead a short time later. This case is being investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Interrante. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Justice Department Sues New Mexico Property Manager for Sexually Harassing Tenants

body_text: The Justice Department filed a lawsuit today against Ariel Solis Veleta, of Albuquerque, New Mexico, for sexually harassing female tenants in violation of the Fair Housing Act (FHA). Solis was employed as a leasing agent and property manager at St. Anthony Plaza Apartments in Albuquerque between 2010 and 2022. The lawsuit, filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico, alleges that between 2010 and 2022, Solis requested sex acts from female tenants, subjected female tenants to unwelcome sexual touching, made unwelcome sexual comments and advances to female tenants, locked female tenants in his office to demand sex acts, demanded that female tenants engage in sex acts with him in order not to lose housing and entered female tenants’ homes in the guise of conducting property management work to demand sex acts. “The Justice Department is firmly committed to holding property managers and landlords accountable when they abuse their power and prey on vulnerable tenants,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This action represents our latest effort to ensure that no one lives in fear of experiencing sexual harassment in their home.” “Women and children deserve to live free from sexual predation,” said U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez for the District of New Mexico. “And everybody deserves safe and affordable housing for their families. When property managers use their power over housing as a weapon to extort sexual favors from tenants, they exploit one fundamental right in order to violate another. Our office is committed to protecting both the sanctuary of the home and the basic human rights of tenants. These cases are made possible by the bravery of tenants. I thank each of the alleged victims for having the courage to come forward and to tell their story.” “Every person deserves to feel safe in their homes without facing the threat of being sexually harassed or abused by a property manager or others who have control over housing,” said Inspector General Rae Oliver Davis of the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). “Victims should not hesitate to report such harassment and abuse to law enforcement authorities. HUD’s Office of Inspector General (HUD OIG) will continue to work with our prosecutorial and law enforcement partners to hold housing providers accountable for this type of depraved conduct.” The lawsuit also names as defendants the owners of St. Anthony Plaza Apartments, St. Anthony Limited Partnership and PacifiCap Holdings XXXVIII LLC and Solis’ employer, PacifiCap Properties Group LLC. It also seeks monetary damages to compensate persons harmed by the alleged harassment, a civil penalty to vindicate the public interest and a court order barring future discrimination. The Justice Department and HUD OIG jointly investigated the case. The FHA prohibits discrimination in housing based on race, color, religion, national origin, sex, disability and familial status. It also prohibits sexual harassment, a form of sex discrimination. Individuals who believe they may have been victims of sexual harassment or other types of housing discrimination by Ariel Solis or at St. Anthony Plaza Apartments, or who have information that may be relevant to this case, may contact the Housing Discrimination Hotline at 1-833-591-0291. Individuals may also send an email to Solis.Investigation@usdoj.gov or may submit a report online . The Justice Department’s Sexual Harassment in Housing Initiative is led by the Civil Rights Division, in coordination with U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country. The initiative seeks to address and raise awareness about sexual harassment by landlords, property managers, maintenance workers, loan officers and other people who have control over housing. Since launching the initiative in October 2017, the department has filed 39 lawsuits alleging sexual harassment in housing and recovered nearly $12 million for victims of such harassment.


title: Driver Who Crashed During a Police Chase Gets 12 Year Prison Sentence

body_text: WASHINGTON – Shaquille Taylor, 28, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced to 12 years in prison, yesterday, for causing near-fatal injuries to another motorist in May 2022, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, Special Agent in Charge Michael Buck of the U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division (USSS), and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). A Superior Court jury convicted Taylor, in November 2023, of aggravated assault while armed, assault with a dangerous weapon, fleeing a law enforcement officer, and destruction of property. According to the government’s evidence, a USSS officer had initiated a traffic stop of Taylor, near 17th Street and Massachusetts Avenue NW, at approximately 2:00 AM on May 6, 2022. Taylor had initially complied with the stop and started to get out of his car, but then got back in the car and drove off at a high rate of speed. As he did so, Taylor ran a red light at 12th Street and Massachusetts Avenue, NW, travelling just under 100 MPH, and crashed into the victim’s car. As a result of the crash, the victim sustained near-fatal injuries and spent weeks on a ventilator. As a result, the victim will suffer chronic pain for the rest of his life. Taylor sustained a broken arm and leg. Police officers later recovered a firearm from Taylor’s car. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves, Special Agent in Charge Buck, and Chief Smith commended the work of those who investigated the case from the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division and the Metropolitan Police Department. They also acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Paralegal Specialist Antoinette Sakamsa, Supervisory Paralegal Specialist Renee Prather, Victim Witness Service Coordinator Maenylie Watson, Victim Witness Program Specialist Lakeisha McFall, Supervisory IT Specialist Leif Hickling, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathleen Houck and Jamie Carter who assisted with the investigation of the matter. Finally, they commended the work of Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn Bartz and Benjamin Helfand, who investigated and prosecuted the case.


title: Mobile Man Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Illegally Possessing an Unregistered Machinegun

component: USAO - Alabama, Southern

body_text: MOBILE, AL – A Mobile man was sentenced to 57 months in prison for illegally possessing an unregistered machinegun. According to court documents, Zukinski Marquis Tomon Spelton, 25, was arrested in December 2021 after he fled from the passenger seat of a car that Mobile police were attempting to pull over for a traffic violation. As Spelton fled from the car, officers saw the impression of a firearm concealed under his shirt. Officers chased Spelton, who jumped several fences and ran through the backyards of several houses, ultimately taking him into custody. Along the path of Spelton’s flight, police found a Glock 9mm pistol equipped with a machinegun conversion device, commonly referred to as a “Glock switch.” The pistol also had a fully loaded 30-round extended magazine and a chambered round. A forensic DNA analyst found Spelton’s DNA on the pistol. Additionally, a firearms expert test fired the pistol, which operated as a fully automatic pistol. It is illegal under federal law for any person to possess such a machinegun without registering it in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Spelton had not registered the above-referenced machinegun at the time he possessed it. In addition to the 57-month prison sentence, Senior United States District Judge Callie V.S. Granade ordered Spelton to serve a three-year term of supervised release upon his release from prison, during which time he will undergo drug testing and treatment, and will receive a mental health evaluation and treatment. The court did not impose a fine, but Judge Granade ordered Spelton to pay $100 in special assessments and forfeited his pistol and ammunition to the United States. U.S. Attorney Sean P. Costello of the Southern District of Alabama made the announcement. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Mobile Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Roller prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.


title: Connecticut Dentist Sentenced to Prison for Tax Evasion

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that BOULOS HANNA, also known as “Paul Hanna,” 66, of East Lyme, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Omar A. Williams in Hartford to 10 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for tax evasion. Judge Williams also ordered Hanna to pay a $25,000 fine in addition to his restitution obligation. According to court documents and statements made in court, Hanna is the sole owner of Paul Hanna DMD PC, a dental practice in New London. Hanna takes fees from dental patients in the form personal checks, cash, and credit card payments. Hanna owns the building where his dental practice is located and the practice pays rent to Hanna individually. For each of the 2000 through 2009 tax years, Hanna filed a Form 1040, U.S. Individual Income Tax Return for himself and his wife, and paid the tax due and owing for those years, typically by having withholdings during the year sufficient to cover his tax liability. For the 2010 through 2012 tax years, Hanna filed a Form 1040 for himself and his wife, but did not pay the tax due and owing. As a result, from approximately April 2012 through 2017, Hanna was subject to IRS collections enforcement for the 2010 through 2012 tax years, including forced collection activity, such as liens placed on property and seized payments taken by way of levy. From 2013 through 2020, Hanna earned approximately $1.6 million in taxable income from his work as a dentist and from rental income. However, he failed to file tax returns for any of those years, resulting in a loss to the IRS of $244,541. In addition to failing to file personal federal income tax returns, Hanna attempted to evade the assessment of tax by paying himself “management fees” instead of a reasonable wage, operating in cash by self-endorsing business checks to himself and cashing these checks to keep money out of his personal bank accounts, and paying personal expenses directly from his business accounts without reflecting those payments as income. Hanna is required to pay $244,541 in restitution. Hanna pleaded guilty on July 17, 2023. He is required to report to prison on May 6. This matter was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Susan Wines.


title: New York Man Sentenced to Prison for Threatening to Kill United States Senator

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of New York City was sentenced in federal court in West Virginia to 16 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, on his conviction for threatening a federal official, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. United States District Judge Gina M. Groh of the Northern District of West Virginia imposed the sentence on Robert F. Crosson, 60, who pleaded guilty to the charge in October 2023. According to information presented to the Court in connection with Crosson’s guilty plea, on February 9, 2022, the defendant placed a telephone call to the Martinsburg, West Virginia, office of a United States Senator and left a voicemail that included the threat that there was “a bullet coming to your head soon.” In imposing the sentence, Judge Groh noted the seriousness of the offense and also stressed the importance of deterring threats of violence against public officials. This prosecution was handled by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, following the recusal of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of West Virginia. Assistant United States Attorney DeMarr W. Moulton prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. U.S. Attorney Olshan commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and United States Capitol Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Crosson.


title: Founder of LGBTQ+ Non-Profit Arrested, Ordered Held on Fraud and Money Laundering Counts

body_text: WASHINGTON – Ruby Corado, 53, the founder of Casa Ruby, Inc., a Washington D.C.-based non-profit that provided services to the LGBTQ+ community, had her first appearance in U.S. District Court today to face charges of defrauding Paycheck Protection and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan programs, and money laundering. Corado allegedly diverted at least $150,000 of $1.3 million in taxpayer-backed emergency relief funds, intended for Casa Ruby, to private bank accounts off-shore for her personal use. Corado is charged by complaint with bank fraud, wire fraud, laundering of monetary instruments, monetary transactions in criminally derived proceeds, and failure to file a report of foreign bank account. According to court documents, Corado received more than $1.3 million from the Paycheck Protection Program and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan program. Instead of using the funds as she promised, Corado stole at least $150,000 by transferring the money to bank accounts in El Salvador, which she hid from the IRS. During 2022, when financial irregularities at Casa Ruby became public, Corado sold her home in Prince Georges County and fled to El Salvador. FBI agents arrested Corado on March 5, 2024, at a hotel in Laurel, Maryland, after her unexpected return to the United States. Corado is being held pending a detention hearing on Friday. Casa Ruby effectively ceased operations in July 2022 when it shuttered its transitional housing, failed to pay its employees, and faced eviction from multiple properties for failure to pay rent. Bank fraud carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison. Wire fraud carries a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison. The money laundering charges carry a maximum penalty of 20 years. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes. If convicted of any offense, a defendant’s sentence will be determined by the court based on the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. This case is being investigated by the FBI Washington Field Office and the D.C. Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Borchert, Madhu Chugh, and Kathryn Rakoczy. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Columbia Man, Woman Sentenced in $1.1 Million Insurance Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – Two Columbia, Mo., residents were sentenced in federal court today for their roles in a $1.1 million insurance fraud scheme that involved false claims of injuries suffered in faked car accidents. Michael Lee Gene Stapleton, 37, and Latoya Marie Brown, 37, were sentenced in separate appearances before U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark. Stapleton was sentenced to four years and three months in federal prison without parole and ordered to pay $166,363 in restitution to his victims. Brown was sentenced to four years in federal prison without parole and ordered to pay $72,069 in restitution to her victims. On April 6, 2023, Stapleton pleaded guilty to two counts of aiding and abetting mail fraud. On Feb. 14, 2023, Brown pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud. This case stems from a long investigation by the FBI into co-defendant Lawrence Courtney Lawhorn, 36, of Kansas City, Mo. (formerly of Columbia), for a series of automobile accidents throughout Missouri. All but one of those accidents were staged. The conspiracy defrauded six insurance companies of a total of $1,234,581 from June 2017 to July 2020. Lawhorn recruited friends, acquittances, family, and friends of friends to participate in the staged accidents. Conspirators went to various medical providers, claiming injuries from the staged accidents and requesting various testing, such a MRIs, CT scans, and/or X-rays. Conspirators then submitted false claims to insurance companies that they had suffered bodily injuries and that they would be personally liable for any medical bills related to insurance claims. Conspirators, some of whom were involved in multiple incidents, received thousands of dollars, and in some cases tens of thousands of dollars, based on these false claims. However, none of the conspirators made any payments to medical providers and instead used the funds for their personal expenses. Brown admitted she was involved in three incidents and received a total of $44,269 in insurance payments. Two of the accidents were in Boone County, Mo., and one of the accidents was in Kansas City, Mo. Stapleton admitted that he and co-defendant Tara Colleen Jackson, 60, of Independence, Mo., who is Lawhorn’s mother, participated in a staged automobile accident in Kansas City, Mo. State Farm issued a $50,000 check to Stapleton and a $50,000 check to Jackson. None of the medical bills totaling $188,920 at Research Medical Center (where Stapleton was treated) and St. Luke’s East Hospital (where Jackson was treated) have been paid. Stapleton and Brown are among 16 defendants who have been sentenced in this case. Lawhorn pleaded guilty on June 8, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft. Lawhorn also pleaded guilty in a separate and unrelated case to commit wire fraud. His sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. Jackson pleaded guilty on April 6, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and awaits sentencing. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron M. Maness. It was investigated by the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.


title: Spokane Man Who Transported Tens of Thousands of Fentanyl Pills and Pound Quantities of Meth Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that David Lee Fullmer, 61, of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to one count of Conspiracy to Distribute Fentanyl. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 60 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. According to court documents and information disclosed at sentencing, in November of 2022, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) opened an investigation into a supplier of methamphetamine and fentanyl laced pills that was operating in the Eastern District of Washington. The investigation ultimately identified this source of supply as David Velasquez. During the investigation, agents reviewed records and linked Velasquez with an address in Phoenix, Arizona. Investigators also learned Velasquez made regular cell phone contact with Fullmer. In July of 2023, agents learned that Fullmer and Velasquez appeared to have arranged two separate meetings near Brigham City, Utah. On August 10, 2023, agents learned Fullmer had rented a Dodge Ram van in downtown Spokane. Later that day, Fullmer’s phone location was observed traveling eastbound on I-90 leaving Washington. Also that day, Velasquez’s phone was observed leaving Phoenix and heading north. On August 11, FBI special agents observed Velasquez and Fullmer meet at a location in Blackfoot, Idaho. Agents observed Velasquez get an object from the rear passenger door of his vehicle and walk to the front passenger door of Fullmer’s truck. After speaking briefly, the two drove off in different directions. On August 12, 2023, Fullmer, driving the rented Dodge Ram, returned to Washington on I-90 and entered the watercraft inspection station in Spokane County. A Washington State Patrol Trooper initiated a vehicle stop and detained Fullmer. Agents executed a search warrant on the Dodge Ram and seized a black backpack from the front passenger seat. Inside the backpack was a stolen 9mm pistol, a box of ammunition, a package filled with approximately 18,000 multi-colored fentanyl pills, and two cell phones that had text messages about drug distribution. Agents also executed a search warrant at Fullmer’s home in Spokane. Agents seized multiple small plastic baggies containing a total of 1,000 multi-colored fentanyl pills, two small digital scales, a shotgun, a .22 caliber rifle, and ammunition. Velasquez was arrested in Iowa and is currently facing separate drug trafficking charges. “Fentanyl poisons our neighbors, harms our friends and family, and attracts violence that plagues our community, Mr. Fullmer furthered the damage of the opioid epidemic by transporting tens of thousands of fentanyl pills into Spokane,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Together with our law enforcement partners, we will ensure that those who engage in drug trafficking are brought to justice to keep our community safe.”. “Mr. Fullmer was putting countless lives at risk each time he facilitated the distribution of these drugs into our community.” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Seattle field office. “This sentencing shows the unwavering commitment by the FBI and our law enforcement partners to remove traffickers who conspire to distribute harmful drugs in our communities. We will continue to relentlessly pursue those involved in narcotics trafficking to safeguard Washington’s streets and communities.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick Cashman.


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

component: USAO - Wyoming

body_text: Drug Trafficking Miguel Angel Guerrero-Castaneda, age 27, of Mexico, was sentenced to 57 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. The sentencing judge also recommended that the Bureau of Customs Enforcement begin removal proceedings so that the defendant is deported upon his release from prison. According to court documents, beginning in December 2022, Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigators learned that several individuals were distributing large amounts of fentanyl in Laramie County, Wyoming. The investigation revealed that these individuals were acquiring fentanyl from sources in northern Colorado, including Guerrero-Castaneda. When Guerrero-Castaneda was arrested in Thornton, Colorado, on Jun. 6, 2023, he was found with approximately 9,000 fentanyl pills. The investigation also revealed that Guerrero-Castaneda was responsible for the distribution of approximately another 25,000 fentanyl pills in Wyoming from December 2022 through June 2023. Guerrero-Castaneda pled guilty to the charges on Dec. 18, 2023. This crime was investigated by the DEA and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Forwood. Bobby James Hainsworth , age 41, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Senior U.S. District Court Nancy D. Freudenthal imposed the sentence on Mar. 5. According to court documents, on May 9, 2023, a Laramie County Sheriff’s deputy conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Hainsworth was a passenger. The deputy located a Coca-Cola can containing fentanyl that belonged to the defendant. On Dec. 13, 2023, Hainsworth pled guilty to the charges. The crime was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Laramie County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Forwood. Bradley Aaron Lieurance , age 24, of Cheyenne, Wyoming, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin. Chief U.S. District Court Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on Mar. 5. According to court documents, in May 2021, the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation conducted several controlled purchases as part of an investigation into a larger drug operation within Natrona, Laramie, Albany, Campbell and Fremont Counties. While undercover, agents were led directly to Lieurance by a supplier and were told he was the source. Agents conducted three different controlled purchases from Lieurance, including 95 grams of methamphetamine and smaller quantities of heroin and fentanyl. Lieurance pled guilty to the charges on Nov. 22, 2023. This crime was investigated by the Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. Domestic Violence Vincent Acosta, age 46, of Moran, Wyoming, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for sexual abuse. Senior U.S. District Court Nancy D. Freudenthal imposed the sentence on Mar. 4. According to court documents, Acosta and the victim were seasonal employees working for a business operating in Grand Teton National Park. Park Rangers were called to the employee housing for the business for a report of a sexual assault. Acosta pled guilty to sexually assaulting the victim on Nov. 16, 2023. The crime was investigated by the National Park Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore. Illegal Re-entry of a Previously Deported Alien Jose De La Cruz Guerra Torres, age 42, of Mexico City, Mexico, was sentenced to 12 months’ imprisonment for illegal re-entry into the United States of a previously deported alien. According to court documents, on Dec. 28, 2023, the defendant was convicted for manufacturing or delivery of controlled substances in Park County, Wyoming. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) verified that Guerra Torres had previously been deported and was in the United States illegally. This case was investigated by ICE and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cameron J. Cook. U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson imposed the sentence on Mar. 4. About the United States Attorney’s Office The United States Attorney’s Office is responsible for representing the federal government in virtually all litigation involving the United States in the District of Wyoming, including all criminal prosecutions for violations of federal law, civil lawsuits brought by or against the government, and actions to collect judgments and restitution on behalf of victims and taxpayers. The Office is involved in several programs designed to make our communities safer. They include: Environmental Justice The fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies. Project Safe Childhood Project Safe Childhood (PSC) is a DOJ initiative that combats the proliferation of technology-facilitated sexual exploitation crimes against children. The threat of sexual predators soliciting children for sexual contact is well-known and serious. Project Safe Neighborhoods Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is a nationwide commitment to reducing gun and gang crime in America by networking existing local programs that target gun crime and providing these programs with additional tools necessary to be successful. Victim Witness Assistance The Victim Witness Coordinator for the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Wyoming is dedicated to making sure that victims of federal crimes and their family members are treated with compassion, fairness, and respect. To report a federal crime, go to: https://www.justice.gov/actioncenter/report-crime#trafficking


title: Fort Washakie man arraigned on assault charges

body_text: Aaron Clair Bigknife, age 30, of Fort Washakie, Wyoming, was arraigned on Mar. 6 for assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. Bigknife pleaded not guilty. A trial has been scheduled to begin on May 13 before U.S. District Court Judge Alan B. Johnson. Bigknife was detained at the request of the government and remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service. If convicted, Bigknife faces up to 20 years in prison, six years of supervised release and up to a $500,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. This crime is being investigated by the FBI and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Elmore. An indictment merely contains allegations, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Case No. 23-CR-00134