title: Former Teacher and Volunteer Youth Ministry Leader Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: MACON, Ga. – A former teacher and volunteer leader of a youth ministry admitted to possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) in federal court today and faces a maximum of 20 years in prison for his crime. Christian Baumgarth, 27, of Atlanta and formerly of Macon, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of child pornography before U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on July 8. Baumgarth faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison to be followed by up to a lifetime of supervised release and a maximum $250,000 fine. In addition, he will have to register as a sex offender upon release from prison. Baumgarth was taken into custody pending sentencing after entering his guilty plea. The sentencing hearing is scheduled for Oct. 9. There is no parole in the federal system. “Sadly, those who perpetuate the online abuse of children can sometimes be found hiding in plain sight and interacting with children,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “Our office and law enforcement at every level are working tirelessly to protect children from predators, and I commend the investigative work done in this case.” “Those who view and distribute child sexual abuse material perpetuate the victimization of the most vulnerable members of our society,” said Anthony J. Patrone, the Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Atlanta that oversees Georgia and Alabama. “Those in positions of public trust are held to a higher standard as guardians of the innocent and HSI Atlanta, with our law enforcement partners, will continue to seek justice for these victims by pursuing and holding accountable the predators dealing in this material.” According to court documents and statements referenced in court, federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) were investigating people using encrypted applications to distribute CSAM during the summer of 2023. Baumgarth was identified; at the time, he was a teacher and a coach at First Presbyterian Day (FPD) School in Macon, a position he held from 2018-2023. Additionally, he was a volunteer small group leader in the student ministry at Northway Church in Macon from 2019-2023. On Aug. 1, 2023, agents executed a federal search warrant at Baumgarth’s residence in Macon, seizing numerous electronic devices. Agents notified FPD about the execution of the search warrant, and Baumgarth’s employment was terminated. Two of Baumgarth’s iPhones were forensically examined and found to contain 20 images and 13 videos of CSAM, including some that depicted the sexual abuse or exploitation of an infant or toddler. Baumgarth was interviewed by law enforcement and admitted to the conduct. The case is being investigated by HSI with assistance from the FBI. Deputy Criminal Chief Will Keyes is prosecuting the case for the Government.


title: Violent human smuggling stash house operation leads to significant federal prison sentences

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: McALLEN, Texas – Four individuals have been sentenced for harboring aliens, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Abel Cavazos, 45, Mission; Rodrigo Acevedo, 24, and Darrel Palomares 24, all of Donna; and Jesus Valdez, 23, San Juan, pleaded guilty at varying times in early 2021. Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Cavazos to serve a total of 63 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. Palomares and Valdez were each previously sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, while Acevedo received 87 months. At the hearings, the court heard additional evidence that described the inhumane conditions where these aliens were held and the ransoms demanded. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the brutal facts of the case. On Dec. 3, 2020, law enforcement encountered five undocumented aliens who had been released after paying a ransom to smugglers. They reported others were being held hostage at a stash house in Donna. Authorities arrived at the property where they observed several individuals fleeing from the residence, including Valdez, Palomares and Acevedo whom law enforcement eventually placed under arrest. Authorities located 17 other undocumented aliens at the stash house. Evidence revealed approximately 30 individuals were harbored at the property. The investigation revealed Cavazos was the owner of the residence. He leased the property to Valdez who was in charge of the stash house operations. Valdez further recruited Acevedo and Palomares to participate in the scheme. Upon further investigation, law enforcement discovered all four men would often carry pistols and AK-47 style rifles to intimidate the victims and assaulted both male and female undocumented aliens on multiple occasions. Multiple individuals also reported receiving death threats from the smugglers if their families did not pay their ransoms. They held the undocumented aliens on the second floor of a barn with no air conditioning, running water or bathrooms. At the time of the arrests, evidence revealed Cavazos and the others had not fed the individuals in approximately four days. The property was unsanitary, crowded and filthy. All four men will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection and San Juan Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia prosecuted the case.


title: PRC Citizens Sentenced for Conspiring to Transport Illegal Aliens to Guam

component: USAO - Guam & Northern Mariana Islands

body_text: Saipan, MP – Shawn N. Anderson, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announces that on July 2, 2024, ChangCai Dong, age 61, and YongBing Tang, age 54, both citizens of the People’s Republic of China (PRC) were sentenced in the District of the Northern Mariana Islands for Conspiring to Transport Illegal Aliens, in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1324 (a)(1)(A). The Court ordered each defendant to serve 30 days in prison, one year of supervised release, 50 hours community service, and pay a $100 mandatory assessment fee. Both defendants were also ordered to promptly return to the PRC after serving their sentence. The defendants were among 12 PRC nationals and two U.S. citizen crew members rescued by U.S. Navy helicopters during an attempted illegal transit from Saipan to Guam in July of 2023. Their boat, overloaded and poorly equipped for rough seas, ran out of fuel near the island of Rota and drifted for more than 14 hours before the crew radioed a distress call. During the sentencing hearing, both defendants expressed deep regret for getting on the boat, and one recalled fearing that the boat would capsize “under dark skies and big waves.” He thought they would all die and thanked the U.S. government for rescuing them even though they broke the law. “Our federal and local partners will continue to target unlawful travel between the CNMI and Guam,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “This activity is an abuse of the CNMI parole program. It also creates substantial risk to those involved in these voyages, in addition to the rescuers.” “Those who seek to undermine the rule of law, and in the process endanger the lives of their victims for the sake of profit, will be held accountable,” said Lucia Cabral-DeArmas, Acting Special Agent in Charge for HSI Honolulu. “It’s fortunate no lives were lost, and HSI will continue to exercise our investigative expertise to protect human rights.” The rescue was a coordinated effort by the U.S. Coast Guard and U.S. Navy, with assistance from allied military personnel and resources. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, Department of Public Safety-Rota. Assistant United States Attorney Eric S. O’Malley from the District of the Northern Mariana Islands prosecuted the case.


title: Tangipahoa Parish Residents Indicted  for Drug Distribution Resulting in  Serious Bodily Injury and Firearm Offenses

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – MARK FRIDGE, III (“FRIDGE”), age 22, SHYHEIM PINES (“PINES”) , age 29, and KAWAIISHH BROWN (“BROWN”) , age 50, all of Tangipahoa Parish, were indicted on June 28, 2024 for violations of the Federal Controlled Substances Act, including distribution of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury, and violations of the Federal Gun Control Act, announced United States Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to court documents, FRIDGE , PINES and BROWN were indicted for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a substance containing forty grams or more of a detectable amount of fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(B), and 846, and conspiracy to distribute a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury to the victim, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 846. FRIDGE was indicted on two counts of distribution of a substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl resulting in serious bodily injury to the victim, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). PINES and BROWN were indicted for possession with intent to distribute fifty (50) grams of more of methamphetamine and quantities of cocaine and fentanyl, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(A), and 841(b)(1)(B), and possession of firearms in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i). BROWN was also indicted for being a felon in possession of firearms, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). If convicted of the drug conspiracy count, FRIDGE , PINES , and BROWN face a mandatoryminimum term of imprisonment of five years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of forty years, a fine of up to $5,000,000.00, and at least four years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For the conspiracy and distribution resulting in serious bodily injury counts, FRIDGE , PINES , and BROWN face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of twenty years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For the possession with intent to distribute counts, PINES and BROWN face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of ten years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For the possession of firearms in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime counts, PINES and BROWN face a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and up to a maximum term of imprisonment of life to run consecutively to any other sentence imposed, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. For the felon in possession count, BROWN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of fifteen years, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and up to three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. FRIDGE , PINES and BROWN, individually, also face payment of a $100 mandatory special assessment fee for each count of conviction. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charging document and that the guilt of the defendants must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT), which is comprised of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Hammond Police Department, the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the St. Tammany Parish District Attorney’s Office, 21st Judicial District Court, as well as the Southeastern Louisiana University Police Department. The Fentanyl Overdose Response Team (FORT) is a Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) led initiative aimed at reducing the number of fentanyl-related poisonings. FORT investigates both fatal and non-fatal fentanyl poisonings to identify the drug trafficker(s) responsible and help bring them to justice. FORT is a multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional initiative led by DEA's New Orleans Division. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren Sarver and André Jones of the Narcotics Unit.


title: Six Indicted in Sex Trafficking Conspiracy

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – An indictment was unsealed last week in federal court in Boston charging six individuals for their alleged involvement in a sex trafficking conspiracy that victimized two minors and one adult. It is further alleged that the adult victim was trafficked throughout Massachusetts, Rhode Island and South Carolina. The defendants allegedly kept all the profits for their own financial gain and used threats and violence to maintain control over the victims. Christy Parker, 26, of Fall River; Alexander Smalls, 25, of Beaufort County, S.C.; Cory Primo, 42, of Fall River; Avvani Jeffers, 22, of Fall River; Tre’sean Reid, 21, of Beaufort County, S.C.; and Tyreik Reid, 20, of Allendale, S.C., were indicted on charges of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion; sex trafficking of a minor; and conspiracy to commit sex trafficking. Jeffers was arrested on June 27, 2024 and made an initial appearance later that day. Jeffers is currently detained pending a detention hearing on July 8, 2024. Parker and Primo will appear in U.S. District Court in Boston on July 8, 2024. Smalls is awaiting trial in South Carolina and will be arraigned in Boston at a later date. Tyreik Reid will appear in US District Court in South Carolina for a detention hearing on July 10, 2024. Tre’sean Reid is currently a fugitive. According to court filings, between January and August 2023, Parker and Smalls worked together – with assistance from Primo, Jeffers and Smalls’ brothers, Tre’sean Reid and Tyreik Reid – in a scheme to coerce one adult victim and two minor victims to engage in commercial sex in Massachusetts and surrounding states for their exclusive financial gain. It is alleged that, in early 2023, Parker reached out to the adult victim, indicating she was homeless and needed a place to live. After moving in with the victim, Parker and her boyfriend, Smalls, allegedly coerced the victim to quit her job and begin engaging in commercial sex. Parker and Smalls allegedly forced the victim to sign a “profit sharing contact,” which required the victim to “remain loyal and humble and stay focused.” Thereafter, Parker and Smalls allegedly forced the victim to engage in commercial sex – scheduling and coordinating commercial sex acts and setting prices – and took all of the profits. It is alleged that Parker used physical violence, threats of violence and other threats to maintain control. It is further alleged that, in the spring of 2023, Parker travelled with the victim to South Carolina where she continued sex trafficking the victim and collected all of the profits. Upon returning from South Carolina, Parker enlisted help from Primo and Jeffers to traffic the victim throughout Massachusetts and Rhode Island. In July 2023, Parker was introduced to a 16-year-old minor victim and, shortly thereafter, allegedly compelled the minor victim to begin engaging in commercial sex. Specifically, it is alleged that Parker used various methods to maintain control over the minor victim – including physical violence, threats of violence, alcohol, marijuana, starvation and sleep deprivation. Further, Parker would allegedly beat the minor victim if she fell asleep because a customer could request her at any time. On one occasion, Parker allegedly withheld food from the minor victim for 4-5 days after failing to collect the entire fee from a buyer. It is alleged that Parker regularly beat and choked the minor victim and did not let her receive necessary medical treatment. In August 2023, Parker allegedly began trafficking a 17-year-old minor victim who had run away from a group home. It is alleged that Parker scheduled sex buyers for the minor victim, from which Parker would collect all of the profits. It is further alleged that Parker threatened to physically assault the minor victim if she did not work. “The allegations in this case are truly chilling. One minor victim in this case was forced to engage in sex for money with many men. That young girl is someone’s daughter, she is someone’s granddaughter. It is hard to conceive of more vile conduct than what is set forth in these charges. Sex trafficking is not a distant problem – it is happening right here, in our neighborhoods, and often goes unnoticed or unreported,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “Our office is relentlessly pursuing individuals who inflict such exploitation and suffering simply to line their own pockets. We are using every resource at our disposal to hold perpetrators accountable and seek justice for every victim.” “For months, these victims endured brutality and depravity allegedly at the hands of these individuals,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of Homeland Security Investigations in New England. “While these arrests are a significant step toward securing justice, we recognize that this marks only the beginning of three survivors’ paths toward recovery. HSI New England, together with law enforcement partners, is committed to ensuring all trafficking victims are given access to the programs, services and resources necessary to their future healing and success.” If you or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking, please contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov . The charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, provides for a sentence of at least 15 years and up to life in prison, no less than five years of supervised release and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. The charge of sex trafficking of a minor provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to life in prison, no less than five years of supervised release and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $ 250,000. The charge of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, no less than five years of supervised release and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting U.S. Attorney Levy; Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division; and HSI SAC Krol made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by the Somerset Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley-Cunniffe, Chief of the Civil Rights & Human Trafficking Unit and Trial Attorney Francisco Zornosa of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case. The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.


title: United States Attorney Celebrates 60 Years of Civil Rights Progress, Reminds Community of Their Voice

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – In honor of the 60 th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, joined national leaders this week in celebrating this monumental step forward in our country’s journey towards equality. “Our office stands firmly committed to upholding the principles enshrined in the Civil Rights Act,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “We will continue our diligent efforts to protect and uphold civil rights throughout the Western District of Kentucky.” The United States Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Program seeks to protect the rights of the most vulnerable and underserved members of our community through enforcement of both federal civil and criminal civil rights laws. In addition to other Assistant U.S. Attorneys who handle civil rights cases, the office has two designated civil attorneys, Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica R. C. Malloy and Calesia Henson, who specialize in enforcing laws prohibiting discrimination. This includes protecting against discrimination based on race, color, ethnicity, religion, sex, national origin, citizenship, immigration status, sexual orientation, gender identity, familial status, or disability, as well as protecting the civil rights of servicemembers, incarcerated persons and individuals housed in public institutions, and individuals with limited English proficiency. The Office has also designated two Assistant United States Attorneys in its Criminal Division to coordinate efforts to prosecute violations of criminal civil rights statutes. Assistant United States Attorney Chris Tieke coordinates the prosecution of criminal civil rights violations, and Assistant United States Attorney Erin McKenzie coordinates the criminal prosecution of human trafficking, which involves the exploitation of a person for labor, services, or commercial sex. If you believe your civil rights have been violated, please call the United States Attorney’s Office’s Civil Rights Program at (502) 582-6023, send an email to usakyw-civilrights@usdoj.gov , or mail your complaint to: Attn: Civil Rights Program United States Attorney’s Office Western District of Kentucky Louisville, KY 40202 ###


title: Alaska Businesswoman Pleads Guilty to Tax Evasion Scheme

component: Tax Division

body_text: An Alaska woman pleaded guilty on Wednesday to evading taxes on income she earned from the business she operated. According to court documents and statements made in court, Tina H. Yi, of Anchorage, was the sole owner and operator of SJ Investment LLC, a hotel, bar and liquor store in Nome, Alaska, that did business as Polaris HBL. Yi created the business in approximately April 2007 and operated it until approximately October 2017, when the physical property was destroyed in a fire. From approximately 2014 to 2018, Yi maintained two sets of financial records relating to the business’ income and expenses, one of which accurately captured SJ Investment’s income and expenses, and one that understated the business’s income. Yi provided the false records to her accountant to prepare her tax returns. As a result, her 2014 through 2018 tax returns were all false. Yi caused a total tax loss to the IRS of over $550,000. Yi is scheduled to be sentenced on Oct. 11, and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. She also faces a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker for the District of Alaska made the announcement. IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case. Trial Attorney John C. Gerardi of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bradley for the District of Alaska are prosecuting the case.


title: Six People Indicted for Conspiracy to Commit Sex Trafficking in Massachusetts

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: An indictment was unsealed last week in Boston charging Christy Parker, 26; Alexander Smalls, 25; Cory Primo, 42; Avvani Jeffers, 22; Tre’sean Reid, 21; and Tyreik Reid, 20, with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking and other sex trafficking charges. According to the indictment, between January and August 2023, Parker, Smalls, Tre’sean Reid and Tyreik Reid used force, threats of force, fraud and coercion to compel an adult woman to engage in commercial sex. The indictment further alleges that, between July and August 2023, Parker, Smalls, Primo and Jeffers used force, threats of force, fraud and coercion to compel a minor to engage in commercial sex. The indictment further alleges that, in August 2023, Parker, Primo and Jeffers knowingly recruited, enticed, harbored, transported, provided, obtained and maintained another minor for commercial sex. Finally, the indictment alleges that all defendants conspired to commit sex trafficking between January and August 2023. Jeffers was arrested on June 27 and made an initial appearance later that day. Jeffers is currently detained pending a detention hearing on July 8. Parker and Primo will appear in U.S. District Court in Boston on July 8. Smalls is awaiting trial in South Carolina and will be arraigned in Boston at a later date. Tyreik Reid will appear in US District Court in South Carolina for a detention hearing on July 10. Tre’sean Reid is currently a fugitive. If convicted of sex trafficking by force, fraud or coercion, the defendants each face a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. If convicted of sex trafficking of a minor, the defendants face a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. If convicted of conspiracy to commit sex trafficking, the defendants face 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. Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy for the District of Massachusetts and Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) New England Field Office made the announcement. The Somerset Police Department and HSI New England Field Office are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley-Cunniffe for the District of Massachusetts and Trial Attorney Francisco Zornosa of the Civil Rights Division’s Human Trafficking Prosecution Unit are prosecuting the case. HSI asks anyone with information about the defendants to contact the HSI New England Field Office at (617) 565-7400. If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, please call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1 (888) 373-7888. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Convicted Felon Guilty of Shooting at Police Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison

body_text: MACON, Ga. – A man with a violent criminal past was sentenced to serve 25 years in prison for shooting at federal and local law enforcement officers attempting to take him into custody on felony warrants during an hours-long stand-off at a residence located in a Warner Robins, Georgia, neighborhood. Renaldo Smith, 33, of Warner Robins, was sentenced to serve a total of 300 months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release by U.S. District Judge Marc Treadwell on July 3. Smith previously pleaded guilty to one count of aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer and one count of use of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. There is no parole in the federal system. “Renaldo Smith put the lives of many people at risk when he opened fire on law enforcement officers attempting to take him safely into custody,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “These highly trained officers are to be commended for their display of bravery in the line of duty and for safely bringing the defendant into custody.” “The U.S. Marshals Service Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force is composed of Deputy U.S. Marshals and specially deputized and highly trained state and local officers whose primary mission is to arrest violent state and local fugitives. This is dangerous work that keeps our communities safe,” said U.S. Marshal Stephen Lynn. “This incident highlights the risks that these dedicated professionals face every day. It was a job well done.” According to documents and statements referenced in court, Smith was wanted on state felony warrants when the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) learned that Smith was located at a residence on Somerset Drive in Warner Robins on Jan. 31, 2023. The USMS Southeast Regional Fugitive Task Force (SERFTF) attempted to execute a search warrant at the location. Smith opened the door and quickly shut it; multiple gun shots were rapidly fired from inside the residence as SERFTF team members attempted to enter lawfully. The Warner Robins Police Department (WRPD) SWAT team arrived on scene, and the WRPD Hostage Negotiator Team communicated with Smith for hours in an attempt to get him to peacefully stand down and exit the home. After hours of negotiations, the SWAT team deployed pepper spray into the home, and gunfire was exchanged between Smith and the SWAT team. Smith was taken into custody. Inside of the residence, law enforcement recovered a Glock 9mm pistol with a 30-round drum magazine and a rifle. Smith has been convicted of several prior felonies including robbery by force and possession of methamphetamine. This case is a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results. The case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) and the Warner Robins Police Department (WRPD) with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), FBI and the Georgia Bureau of Investigation (GBI). Assistant U.S. Attorney Monica L. Daniels prosecuted the case for the Government.


title: Douglas Man Sentenced to 130 Months for Alien Smuggling Resulting in Death

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Manuel Victor Gastelum, 27, of Douglas, was sentenced last week by United States District Court Judge Rosemary Márquez to 130 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. Gastelum pleaded guilty to Transportation of Illegal Aliens for Profit Resulting in Death on January 31, 2024. Gastelum also was sentenced to 12 months in prison for violating conditions of his federal probation from a prior alien smuggling conviction. On December 4, 2020, Gastelum picked up eight undocumented noncitizens near the border to transport them further into the United States. While driving westbound on Interstate 10 near Vail, Gastelum began driving recklessly and lost control of the vehicle, rolling it multiple times. A 42-year-old male passenger was ejected from the vehicle and subsequently pronounced dead at the scene. Several other passengers were transported to the hospital with serious injuries. Gastelum fled from the crash on foot but was apprehended later that morning several miles away. Gastelum had previously been convicted of Transportation of Aliens for Profit Placing Life in Jeopardy in 2019 after he fled from law enforcement and crashed at a gas station while transporting undocumented noncitizens. For that conviction, Gastelum was sentenced to 18 months in prison and three years of supervised release. He violated his conditions of supervised release by committing this new offense three months after his release from federal prison. When imposing the 130-month sentence, Judge Márquez emphasized that a long sentence was necessary to protect the public. Homeland Security Investigations, Tucson, conducted the investigation in this case, with the assistance of the Arizona Department of Public Safety. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-21-00516-TUC-RM-MAA CR-19-01602-TUC-RM-MAA RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-088_Gastelum # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Glendale Man Arrested for Trafficking Over 450 Kilograms of Fentanyl

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – David Quintero-Mascareno, 20, of Glendale, was arrested on Monday, and charged by complaint with Knowingly and Intentionally Possessing with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. The complaint alleges that, on July 1, 2024, Quintero-Mascareno presented himself for inspection at the Port of Entry in Lukeville, driving a gray Dodge Ram towing a trailer loaded with a utility terrain vehicle. Quintero-Mascareno claimed he was returning to the United States from Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, and gave a negative customs declaration for contraband. A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) canine, trained to detect narcotics, alerted to the utility trailer. CBP officers found approximately 234 packages, containing blue pills imprinted with “M30,” concealed in the trailer’s floorboards and rails. A representative sample of the pills field-tested positive for the properties of fentanyl. The packages weighed a total of almost 460 kilograms. A conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both, and a maximum term of five years supervised release. A complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations are conducting the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: 24-07915MJ RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-089_Quintero-Mascareno # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Las Vegas Man Sentenced To Over Eight Years In Prison For Conspiracy To Distribute Methamphetamine And Heroin

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced Tuesday to 97 months in prison for selling large amounts of methamphetamine and heroin in Las Vegas. According to court documents, from January 2022 to September 14, 2022, Jacobo Aguilar Humberto (43) conspired with co-defendant Eduardo Flores-Martinez to sell methamphetamine and heroin for cash. At times, as part of the conspiracy, Humberto would call Flores-Martinez, his courier, to sell narcotics on his behalf. During the conspiracy, Humberto directly sold or dispatched Flores-Martinez to sell methamphetamine and heroin on multiple dates. On September 14, 2022, law enforcement agents recovered one pound of heroin and one ounce of methamphetamine, as well as $2,060 in cash and two loaded firearms from Humberto’s vehicle. Agents also conducted a traffic stop on Flores-Martinez’s vehicle where they recovered one pound of methamphetamine, one ounce of heroin, and a loaded firearm. During a search of Humberto’s residence, agents recovered $16,156 and three firearms. Humberto pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. In addition to 97 months in prison, United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro sentenced Humberto to five years of supervised release. Flores-Martinez pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. On July 25, 2023, United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro sentenced Flores-Martinez to 84 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release. United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement. This case was investigated by the DEA and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Brister prosecuted the case. If you are aware of controlled substance violations in your community — which may include the growing, manufacture, distribution or trafficking of controlled substances — please submit your anonymous tip through the DEA Tip Line at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip . ###


title: Rossi Sentenced to 5 Years in Prison and Ordered to Pay More than $3 Million for Scheme to Defraud Former Employer

body_text: PEORIA, Ill. – A Morton, Illinois, man, Aaron J. Rossi, 41, was sentenced on July 2, 2024, to five years in prison and ordered to pay more than $3 million in restitution and fines for his scheme to defraud his former employer and filing of false income taxes. A federal grand jury returned an indictment in March 2022, charging Rossi with three counts of filing false tax returns. A superseding indictment adding six counts of mail fraud for a fraud committed against his former employer, was returned in July 2022. Rossi entered into a plea agreement in February 2024, in which he pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return and one count of mail fraud. The remaining seven counts were dismissed. At the sentencing hearing before Chief U.S. District Judge Sara Darrow, the government presented evidence that Rossi had engaged in a practice of lying and deceiving others for his own benefit from the outset of his former employment at Central Illinois Orthopedic Surgery (“CIOS”) through the entirety of the court proceedings on these charges. The government demonstrated how Rossi had spent years lying to his employer while stealing money and then, simultaneously, providing false information on his tax returns. Rossi admitted that he had taken funds from CIOS without its knowledge or permission and had purchased personal items and services with the funds. Among other expenditures, he used the funds to purchase a home theater system, lease a luxury vehicle, and rent a private jet for his bachelor party. Further, the government demonstrated that Rossi’s scheme included falsely representing himself to others, including patients, as a doctor even though he was not a licensed physician and not authorized to practice medicine. He also wrote 29 counterfeit prescriptions, one of which was falsely written in the name of a third party who, as a result, was denied entry into a cancer trial. In imposing sentence, Judge Darrow noted that Rossi’s theft served no purpose other than his own greed and desire. She stated that he was already legally receiving a handsome salary from his former employer but stole from them to further his lifestyle. She explained that he did not use the money for necessities, or even things that were “nice to have” but rather for items that were luxuries. She further discussed Rossi’s betrayal of his former employer and his theft from innocent people who had done nothing wrong at all but instead trusted Rossi, befriended him, and offered to mentor him. Judge Darrow described that betrayal and Rossi’s squandering of opportunity and his talents as a shame. Judge Darrow ultimately found that the Federal Sentencing Guidelines did not fully capture the scope of Rossi’s fraud. As a result, she sentenced him to 60 months in the Bureau of Prisons, to be followed by a two-year term of supervised release; imposed a fine of $1,000,000, and ordered him to pay full restitution in an amount of more than $2.2 million dollars to his former employer as well as taxes to the Internal Revenue Service and the State of Illinois’ Department of Revenue. Rossi was originally released on bond following indictment, but his bond was revoked, and he was placed in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service in September 2023 after multiple bond violations. He had remained in custody pending sentencing. Rossi faced statutory penalties of up to 20 years’ imprisonment and up to a three-year term of supervised release for the mail fraud, and up to 3 years’ imprisonment and up to a one-year term of supervised release for the false tax return count. Each of the counts also carried a potential fine. “This sentence highlights the tireless effort and commitment of the investigative agencies and prosecutors who seek justice against those who commit this type of fraud.” said U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris. “Crimes such as these continue to cost employers and taxpayers billions of dollars each year. My office will maintain its fight to protect the citizens in Central Illinois from this fraudulent conduct.” “The sentencing of Aaron Rossi sends a clear message that the U.S. Postal Inspection Service will aggressively investigate and bring to justice those who use the U.S. Mail to line their pockets. We are dedicated to defending the nation’s mail system from criminal activity and preserving the integrity of the U.S. Mail. We value our law enforcement partners and their support of our mission,” said Ruth Mendonça, Inspector in Charge of the Chicago Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, which includes Peoria, Illinois. “This sentencing sends a clear message that deceit, and theft—especially in times of crisis—will not go unpunished,” said Ramsey E. Covington, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Aaron Rossi shamelessly stole from his employer, the State of Illinois, and the American public for his own personal gain during a time when many people were struggling. IRS Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners remain steadfast in our commitment to holding individuals like Rossi accountable while ensuring that justice is served.” The case investigation was conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Internal Revenue Service. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office also provided assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas F. McMeyer and Tanner K. Jacobs represented the government in the prosecution.


body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – David Quintero-Mascareno, 20, of Glendale, was arrested on Monday, and charged by complaint with Knowingly and Intentionally Possessing with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of a Mixture or Substance Containing a Detectable Amount of Fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance. The complaint alleges that, on July 1, 2024, Quintero-Mascareno presented himself for inspection at the Port of Entry in Lukeville, driving a gray Dodge Ram towing a trailer loaded with a utility terrain vehicle. Quintero-Mascareno claimed he was returning to the United States from Puerto Penasco, Sonora, Mexico, and gave a negative customs declaration for contraband. A Customs and Border Protection (CBP) canine, trained to detect narcotics, alerted to the utility trailer. CBP officers found approximately 234 packages, containing blue pills imprinted with “M30,” concealed in the trailer’s floorboards and rails. A representative sample of the pills field-tested positive for the properties of fentanyl. The packages weighed a total of almost 460 kilograms. A conviction for Possession with Intent to Distribute 400 Grams or More of Fentanyl carries a maximum penalty of life in prison, a fine of $10,000,000, or both, and a maximum term of five years supervised release. A complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. U.S. Customs and Border Protection and Homeland Security Investigations are conducting the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: 24-07915MJ RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-089_Quintero-Mascareno 2024-089_quintero-mascareno_.pdf # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Adair Police Chief Sentenced to 60 Months in Federal Prison for Fraud, False Statements, and Firearms Charges

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

body_text: DES MOINES, Iowa – The Adair Police Chief was sentenced yesterday to 60 months in federal prison for conspiring to make false statements to the ATF, making false statements to the ATF, and illegal possession of a machine gun. According to public court documents and evidence presented at trial and sentencing, since July 2018, Bradley Eugene Wendt, 47, has been the Chief of Police for Adair, Iowa. He is also the owner of BW Outfitters, a federal firearms licensee in Denison, Iowa. Evidence at trial showed that, between July 2018 and August 2022, Wendt used his position as Chief of Police to obtain machine guns for his own personal use and profit, including to buy machine guns for his own store. Generally, machine guns made after May 1986 are illegal to transfer and possess. But law enforcement agencies can buy machine guns for their official use and an authorized dealer can get machine guns to demonstrate to a police department for the department’s future possible purchase. If a police department wants to purchase or receive a demonstration of a machine gun, it can submit a letter to ATF, referred to as a “law letter,” expressing its need for and interest in the machine gun. Between July 2018 and August 2022, Wendt wrote nearly 40 law letters, requesting the purchase or demonstration of 90 machine guns for the Adair Police Department. In the law letters to purchase machine guns for his two-man department, Wendt said he was buying the machine guns for the official use of his department and was not getting the machine guns for resale. In the law letters requesting demonstrations of machine guns, Wendt said the Adair Police Department wanted a demonstration for the department’s future possible purchase of the requested machine guns. A jury found that Wendt made false statements in several of the law letters, convicting him of one count of conspiracy to make false statements to the ATF and eight counts of making a false statement to the ATF. Evidence at trial showed that Wendt purchased machine guns for the Adair Police Department, but later resold those machine guns at a personal profit of nearly $80,000. The evidence also showed Wendt used demonstration law letters to purchase machine guns for his own gun store, BW Outfitters, including a .50 caliber machine gun called a “Ma Deuce,” which he immediately mounted to his personally owned armored Humvee. Wendt was also convicted of one count of illegal possession of a machine gun, based on his personal possession of a belt-fed, M60 machine gun registered to the Adair Police Department. Wendt, along with his gun store BW Outfitters, hosted a machine gun shoot in April 2022, where he charged the public to shoot machine guns, including several registered to the Adair Police Department. The jury found Wendt was not acting within the scope of his official duties when he possessed the M60 machine gun. Wendt was ordered to pay a $50,000 fine. After completing his term of imprisonment, Wendt will be required to serve a three-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel said “We expect law enforcement officers to uphold their oath to protect and serve our communities. Instead, Brad Wendt broke the law and betrayed the community by unlawfully obtaining and selling firearms for his own personal profit. The FBI remains steadfast in aggressively investigating and bringing to justice those who misuse their authority for personal gain.” “Wendt was held accountable for committing a betrayal of the public’s trust by engaging in this machine gun trafficking scheme for personal gain,” stated Gordon N. Mallory, Acting Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Kansas City Division. “This sentence sends a loud message to anyone in public service: if they betray their oath of office and their responsibility to their community, they will be held accountable.” United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms (ATF), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) made the announcement. “At its core this case was about false statements, driven by the personal ambition of man who saw his badge as a means to an end, rather than a calling.,” stated U.S. Attorney Richard Westphal, “Thank you to our dedicated law enforcement partners at FBI and ATF, and a hard-working prosecution team for pursuing a challenging case and holding Brad Wendt accountable.” This case was investigated by ATF and FBI, and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Mikaela Shotwell, Shai Gonzales, and Ryan Leemkuil.


title: Chicago Man Sentenced to 96 Months in Federal Prison for Firearm Charge

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Chicago man was sentenced on Thursday, June 27, 2024, to 96 months in federal prison for being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm. According to public court documents, Nicolas Oneal Garrett, 35, was arrested by the Iowa City Police Department after they were notified that Garrett had taken a firearm from his ex-girlfriend’s residence in Chicago and was on his way to Iowa City on a bus. Garrett was in possession of the firearm when he was apprehended. Garrett had previously been convicted of multiple felonies and a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence and was prohibited from possessing firearms. After completing his term of imprisonment, Garrett will be required to serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Iowa City Police Department. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN .


title: Quad Cities Man Sentenced to 126 Months in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm Charges

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Quad Cities man was sentenced on Wednesday, June 26, 2024, to 126 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute less than 50 kilograms of marijuana and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. According to public court documents, Trevon Demon Horne, 23, was arrested by the Davenport Police Department following a search warrant executed at his Davenport residence. During the search of Horne’s residence, officers located approximately a pound of marijuana, digital scales, currency, and a Glock .45 caliber firearm with an auto-sear switch which made the firearm a machinegun. Horne admitted to selling marijuana and possessing the Glock in furtherance of his drug trafficking. After completing his term of imprisonment, Horne will be required to serve 5 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN .


title: Foreign National Accused of Intending to Traffic Large Amounts of Narcotics in Utah

body_text: Salt Lake City, Utah – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a foreign national living in Utah with drug crimes after she was arrested and accused of distributing methamphetamine, heroin, cocaine and fentanyl, through a drug trafficking organization, in the District of Utah. According to court documents, Leonilde Andrea Lopez Vargas, 35, of Midvale, Utah, was arrested in June 2024 following a criminal investigation that started in November 2023 by the FBI Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force. On June 18, 2024, agents seized approximately 2,813 grams of field-tested positive fentanyl that was estimated to be approximately 28,000 pills. Agents also seized approximately 1,648 grams of field-tested positive heroin, and approximately 1,182.5 grams of field-tested positive cocaine at Vargas’ residence in Midvale. In Vargas’ vehicle, agents seized approximately 478 grams of field-tested positive methamphetamine. Prior to the June seizure, agents also seized approximately 502.88 grams of field-tested positive heroin, 1,892.11 grams of field-tested positive methamphetamine, approximately 670.62 grams of field-tested positive fentanyl, and a digital scale from a storage unit believed to be connected to Vargas in West Valley City, Utah. Vargas is charged with possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of heroin with intent to distribute, and possession of cocaine with intent to distribute. Her initial appearance on the indictment is scheduled for July 08, 2024, at 11:30 a.m. in courtroom 8.4 at the United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. United States Attorney, Trina A. Higgins, of the District of Utah made the announcement. The case is being investigated by the FBI Wasatch Metro Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Seth Nielsen of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce gun violence and other violent crime, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN . The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about OCDETF, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ocdetf . 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: Clay County Convicted Felon Sentenced To Over 6 Years In Federal Prison On Drug And Firearm Charges

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – Chief United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Edward Sherwood Gustafson, IV, (31, Green Cove Springs) to 6 years and 3 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. The court also ordered Gustafson to forfeit a Smith and Wesson pistol and 15 rounds of ammunition traceable to the firearm offense. Gustafson was arrested on May 9, 2023, and ordered detained. He entered a guilty plea on August 31, 2023. According to court documents, on January 21, 2023, members of the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) were looking for Gustafson based on an active felony arrest warrant. A CCSO deputy observed him driving and initiated a traffic stop. Upon stopping, Gustafson immediately got out of his truck and a struggle ensued between him and the deputy. The deputy eventually handcuffed and arrested Gustafson based on the felony arrest warrant. During a subsequent search of Gustafson’s truck, officers located a loaded Smith and Wesson pistol. Underneath the truck’s hood, a travel bag was zip-tied to the engine bay area which contained cocaine, methamphetamine, a scale for weighing drugs, approximately 50 small baggies, and numerous pills. Further investigation determined that the total weight of the methamphetamine was approximately 22 grams and that Gustafson had seven prior felony convictions to include felony domestic battery, fleeing and eluding law enforcement, and shooting a deadly missile. As a convicted felon, Gustafson is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. “As we fight the scourge of drugs that plague our communities, we are grateful for our partnership with the US Attorney’s Office. Together we will continue to hold accountable those who choose to sell this poison in our streets,” said Clay County Sheriff Michelle Cook. This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. It was 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: Windsor Man Sentenced to 3 ½ Years for Drug Trafficking and Possession of Machinegun

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Western

body_text: MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Byron Ellison, 28, Windsor, Wisconsin, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 3 ½ years in federal prison for possessing heroin and fentanyl intended for distribution and possessing a machine gun. Ellison pleaded guilty to these charges on March 14, 2024. The prison term will be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Between September 9, 2023, and October 9, 2023, Ellison sold a heroin and fentanyl mixture to an undercover officer on four separate occasions. On October 17, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Ellison’s residence. In a safe in Ellison’s bedroom, they found a loaded Polymer 80 9mm handgun with a “Glock switch” attached to it. In the same safe was a Mini Draco AK47-variant pistol and 13 grams of a heroin and fentanyl mixture. In a backpack in Ellison’s room, investigators found a loaded .40 caliber Polymer 80 handgun. A “Glock switch” is an illegal after-market device that converts a Glock semi-automatic handgun into a fully functioning machinegun. A Polymer 80 is a privately made firearm (aka “ghost gun”) that does not have a serial number. Ghost guns are put together using components purchased either as a kit or as separate pieces. At sentencing, Judge Conley recognized that notwithstanding Ellison’s criminal history, this would be his first time being sent to prison. Judge Conley also noted that this was a serious case because Ellison was a drug dealer who had a ghost gun with a switch, a firearm capable of spraying bullets in an indiscriminate manner. The charges against Ellison were the result of an investigation conducted by the Dane County Narcotics Task Force and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey Stephan prosecuted this case. This case has been brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the U.S. Justice Department’s program to reduce violent crime. The PSN approach emphasizes coordination between state and federal prosecutors and all levels of law enforcement to address gun crime, especially felons illegally possessing firearms and ammunition and violent and drug crimes that involve the use of firearms.


title: Kissimmee Man Who Attempted To Entice A Child To Engage In Sexual Activity Sentenced To More Than 12 Years In Federal Prison

body_text: Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Damien Jesse Suhr (41, Kissimmee) to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual conduct. Suhr was found guilty by a federal jury on March 28, 2024. According to evidence presented at trial, on May 27, 2023, the FBI was involved in an operation with the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. As part of the operation, a profile was created by the FBI on a dating application, which indicated that the user, “Jack,” was an adult, but depicted a photo of a 14-year-old boy. On that dating application, “Jack” and Suhr began exchanging messages and then quickly switched to exchanging cellphone text messages, in which the “child” made clear to Suhr that he was 14 years old. For two weeks, Suhr spoke to the “child” about engaging in sex with him. Suhr explained in detail the sexual acts he wanted to perform on and with the “child.” Additionally, he directed the “child” to delete his text messages with Suhr to avoid detection by his mother or law enforcement. He selected a location at a gas station that was convenient for him to meet the “child.” Suhr sent messages to the “child” requesting that he wear a specific type of underwear to the meeting. On June 9, 2023, Suhr went to the gas station to meet with the “child,” where Suhr was arrested by law enforcement officers. Evidence presented at trial showed that Suhr had previously exchanged messages with other online users about his desire to have sexual encounters with children as young as 12. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kaley Austin-Aronson and Dana Hill. This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Catholic Medical Center to Pay $300,000 to Settle Allegations of Controlled Substances

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – Catholic Medical Center (CMC) in Manchester agreed to pay $300,000 to resolve allegations that it violated the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) by failing to keep accurate records of controlled substances, including opioids, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces. The CSA deters the illegal distribution, possession, dispensing, and improper use of controlled substances. The CSA requires the accurate inventorying, tracking and recordkeeping of controlled substances to prevent misuse. “The CSA created a ‘closed system’ of controlled substance distribution so the DEA can better monitor the movement of prescription drugs to end users. The requirement to keep complete and accurate records is crucial for accountability and transparency. In this case, an independent, certified registered nurse anesthetist was able to steal controlled substances almost every day she worked over the course of a year. Her thefts should have been detected before she was able to steal hundreds of doses of fentanyl. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate these cases to ensure that hospitals abide by the regulations of the CSA,” said U.S. Attorney Jane Young. “DEA registrants are responsible for handling-controlled substances responsibly and ensuring that complete and accurate records are being properly kept and accounted for in compliance with the Controlled Substance Act,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Stephen Belleau, Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement and regulatory partners to ensure that these rules and regulations are followed.” The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began an investigation after CMC reported that an independent, certified registered nurse anesthetist, Robin Nichols, had tampered with and diverted liquid fentanyl, a narcotic painkiller drug. On June 12, 2024, Nichols pled guilty to tampering with consumer products. Nichols admitted that on April 15, 2023, while working as a nurse at CMC, she removed a quantity of fentanyl from a syringe intended for an operating room patient and which she knew was intended for that patient. Nichols replaced the fentanyl with a quantity of liquid saline and hydromorphone (Dilaudid). She also admitted to diverting the fentanyl for her own use. The Investigation revealed that Nichols stole controlled substances approximately once every day that she worked for a year. One of the ways she diverted was by stealing fentanyl leftover from medical procedures, instead of safely discarding it. This action by Nichols resulted in the creation and retention of false wasting records. Therefore, the investigation revealed CMC’s failure to keep accurate and complete wasting records. The DEA also completed an audit of CMC’s records which found that the records did not accurately reflect CMC’s inventory for seven controlled substances, including fentanyl, because CMC possessed greater quantities than its records indicated for those drugs. The DEA also found that CMC did not have effective controls and procedures in place to guard against the theft and diversion of controlled substances. CMC did not admit to liability. CMC fully cooperated with the government’s investigation and has taken significant steps to improve its controls and procedures against future theft and diversion of controlled substances. The DEA led the investigation leading to the settlement agreement. The case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Raphael Katz.


title: Manchester Man Arrested for Manufacturing and Trafficking Counterfeit Pharmaceutical Pills

body_text: CONCORD – A Manchester man has been charged in connection with operating a counterfeit pill pressing scheme, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces. Jerry Summers, 44, of Manchester, was charged by complaint with one count of manufacturing a controlled substance, containing fentanyl and methamphetamine, two counts of distribution of a controlled substance, one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and trafficking in a drug and using a counterfeit drug mark on or in connection with such drug. The defendant’s next scheduled hearing is July 8, 2024. According to the charging documents, after a multi-month federal and state investigation, on July 1, 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Clandestine Laboratory Team executed a federal search warrant of Summer’s Manchester office suite, rented under the name of “Summertime Drywall and Maintenance LLC.” During the search, DEA agents located a pill press that was covered in powdered residue and wrapped in soundproofing material, and large amounts of colored press tablets. A drug test revealed the presence of fentanyl and amphetamines on the residue found on and around the pill press. On two prior occasions, Summers sold pills to a confidential informant. During the first sale, which occurred on March 21, 2024, Summers sold a quantity of blue pills that were marked as being OxyContin but later tested positive for fentanyl. During the second sale, on April 10, 2024, Summer sold a quantity of blue pills that were marked as being OxyContin but later tested positive for fentanyl as well as a quantity of orange pills that were marked as being Adderall but later tested positive for methamphetamine. The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Manchester Police Department led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Geoffrey W.R. Ward is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Tellico Village Property Owners' Association Agrees To Pay $1.3M Following Receipt Of PPP Loan

component: USAO - Tennessee, Eastern

body_text: KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – Tellico Village Property Owners Association, Inc. (TVPOA) has agreed to pay $1,361,992.22 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by applying for, receiving, and obtaining forgiveness of a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for which it was not eligible. Congress created the PPP in March 2020, as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, to provide relief to small businesses experiencing economic hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic. Although certain nonprofit organizations were eligible to receive PPP Loans at various times throughout the program, 501(c)(4) nonprofit organizations have never been eligible. In April 2020, TVPOA, a 501(c)(4) nonprofit organization, applied for and received a PPP loan. The PPP application required applicants to identify their business type from a list of eligible options or, alternatively, to select “Other.” The application also required applicants to certify that they were eligible to receive a PPP loan. On the application it submitted, “C-Corp” was selected as TVPOA’s entity type. In submitting its application, TVPOA represented that it was eligible to receive the applied-for loan. TVPOA later applied for and received forgiveness of its PPP loan. TVPOA cooperated fully with the United States’ investigation and contends that any misstatements in its application were inadvertent. The settlement amount reflects TVPOA’s cooperation. This Settlement resolves a lawsuit filed under the qui tam , or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to sue on behalf of the government for false claims and receive a share of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. GNGH2, Inc. v. Tellico Village Property Owners Association, Inc. , No. 3:23-cv-199 (E.D. Tenn.). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexa Ortiz Hadley and Ben Cunningham represented the United States, with assistance from the Small Business Administration. On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across the government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. ###


title: Zuni Man Pleads Guilty to Assault

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty in federal court to charges arising from 2023 assault which resulted in serious bodily injury. According to publicly available court documents, on February 25, 2023, Christopher Hannaweeke, Sr. , 49, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, assaulted John Doe. During the assault, Hannaweeke kicked John Doe in the head and body. As a result, John Doe suffered fractures to his face, extreme physical pain, and had to hospitalized for a period of time. The Court ordered that Hannaweeke remain on conditions of release pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Hannaweeke faces 21 months in prison. Upon his release from prison, Hannaweeke will be subject to up to three years of supervised release. U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case. View the Plea Agreement # # #


title: Rexburg Man Convicted of Wire Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft Sentenced to More Than 5 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: POCATELLO – Kelly Ryan McCandless, 53, of Rexburg, was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison following his convictions for defrauding his partners out of more than $580,000, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. According to court records, in 2017, McCandless and two others formed a partnership to build a 96-bed student housing property in Rexburg, Idaho. McCandless’s contribution was to build the property, using a loan secured by the partnership, at cost. In exchange for his efforts, and upon completion of the project, he would be entitled to 24.5% of the building equity and future proceeds. Over the course of the next year, however, and beginning with the very first bank withdrawal, McCandless falsified subcontractor invoices and bank withdrawal requests. He unlawfully used subcontractors’ signatures to withdraw loan proceeds from the bank at a higher amount than what was invoiced to build the project. The bank relied on those documents and wired McCandless the proceeds from the loan. McCandless continued this scheme for months and improperly took approximately $580,000, which he used to purchase personal items like a brand-new pickup truck, several snow mobiles, several dirt bikes, toy haulers, a Jeep, a Jeep Grand Cherokee, $5,000 in dental work, vacations, among other expenditures. His actions caused the project to come to a standstill, and but for one of the partners injecting more capital into the project, the student housing property would never have been completed. After a six-day jury trial, McCandless was found guilty of four counts of wire fraud and four counts of aggravated identity theft on November 29, 2023. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered McCandless to pay a $10,000 fine and to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. “The defendant defrauded partners who put their trust in him and spent the funds he stole on a lifestyle he could not legitimately afford,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “We will not tolerate this illegal conduct, which truly harms victims and threatens our local economies. I’m grateful for the FBI’s hard work in this case, and we thank the jury for its service.” “Like many fraudsters, McCandless was motivated by greed, lining his pockets with the embezzled money and spending it on expensive toys for himself,” said Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI. “While he may have benefited in the short term, he will now be held accountable for betraying and defrauding his victims.” U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the FBI, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse and former Assistant U.S. Attorney John Shirts prosecuted this case. ###


title: Eden Prairie Man Charged with Arson After Setting Fire to a Townhome with Children Inside

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – An Eden Prairie man has been charged with arson after setting fire to a townhome with four children inside, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, on May 31, 2024, at 11:27 a.m., the Eden Prairie Fire Department responded to a fire in a townhome. When the fire started, there were five people in the house, including one adult man and four children. When emergency responders arrived, they met the adult male occupant and three children outside, but the fourth child, a nine-month-old baby (Minor A), was still in the burning house. Eden Prairie firefighters entered the residence and located Minor A, who survived the fire but needed to be transported by ambulance to the hospital. After the fire, ATF investigators and Eden Prairie police officers learned that Minor A’s mother lived in the burned home and Abdirahman Abdi Abdullahi, 23, was on probation for violating a restraining order that prohibited him from contacting Minor A’s mother. Investigators also learned that two days before the fire, Abdullahi sent a threatening message to Minor A’s mother stating, “when I see u I’m smoke u.” Law enforcement obtained surveillance footage from a nearby business that showed Abdullahi shortly before the fire carrying a red gas can through a line of bushes towards the townhome. Minutes later, the footage showed Abdullahi emerge from the bushes with the gas can and return to his vehicle. Investigators determined that Abdullahi’s vehicle was a rental and were able to trace the rental agreement. Investigators also obtained surveillance footage from a nearby gas station that showed Abdullahi arrive in the rental vehicle and fill the red gas can with gasoline. Law enforcement located and arrested Abdullahi. At the time of his arrest, officers found clothing items that matched Abdullahi’s clothing in the surveillance footage. The complaint charges Abdullahi with one count of arson causing injury. Abdullahi made his initial appearance on July 1, 2024, in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung. He was ordered to remain in custody pending a formal detention hearing scheduled for July 8, 2024. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Eden Prairie Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney William C. Mattessich is prosecuting the case. A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Sweepstakes Operators Plead Guilty to Bank Secrecy Act Violations

component: Criminal Division

body_text: Two Missouri men pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiring with bankers to willfully fail to implement appropriate anti-money laundering (AML) controls at a Missouri bank, as required by the Bank Secrecy Act (BSA). Kevin Brandes, 60, and William Graham, 56, both residents of Kansas City, Missouri, owned and operated multiple sweepstakes businesses and held accounts for those businesses at the Missouri bank. According to court documents, from 2013 to 2019, Brandes and Graham abetted bank officials in failing to implement key components of the bank’s AML program. Under the BSA and its implementing regulations, the bank was required to file currency transaction reports (CTR) with the Department of the Treasury’s Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) for any transaction in currency of more than $10,000. In 2017, at the request of bank officials, Brandes and Graham signed FinCEN CTR Exemption Review Forms that classified their companies as “direct mail advertising” businesses. After receiving the signed exemption forms, the bank failed to file CTRs with FinCEN on transactions involving Brandes’ and Graham’s businesses. Additionally, Brandes’ and Graham’s companies were deemed “high risk” and subject to heightened monitoring under the bank’s policies and procedures. Brandes and Graham understood that by signing the CTR exemption forms the bank would apply less scrutiny to their companies’ transactions. Additionally, on or about Oct. 11, 2016, at the direction of two bank officials, Brandes and Graham had an outside attorney sign a legal opinion letter, then sent it to the bank, knowing that it contained false information. Specifically, the letter indicated that one of Brandes’ companies “in over 3 years has not received negative or unwanted legal action by way of regulatory bodies or private suits.” Brandes and Graham knew at the time, however, that this information was false because a state regulatory agency had filed a legal action against the company in question. Brandes and Graham both believed this letter would help the bank circumvent its requirements under the BSA. Brandes and Graham each pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to cause the willful failure to implement and maintain an appropriate anti-money laundering program. Brandes and Graham will be sentenced at a later date and face maximum penalties of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Teresa A. Moore for the Western District of Missouri, Special Agent in Charge Justin R. Bundy of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG) Kansas City Region, Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Murdock of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) St. Louis Field Office, and Assistant Director Michael Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement. FDIC-OIG, IRS-CI, and the FBI are investigating the case. Trial Attorneys Chad M. Davis and Christopher Ting of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Patrick D. Daly and Matthew N. Sparks for the Western District of Missouri are prosecuting the case. MLARS’ Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers, and employees, whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.


title: Former National Security Agency Contractor Sentenced To Thirteen Months In Federal Prison For Time And Attendance Fraud

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Baltimore , Maryland – U.S. District Court Judge Ellen L. Hollander sentenced Jacky Lynn McComber, of Elkridge, Maryland, to thirteen months in federal prison and ordered her to pay $176,913 in restitution for submitting false invoices to the National Security Agency (“NSA”) for overstating her hours worked on a contract and for making false statements to investigators from the NSA’s Office of the Inspector General (“NSA-OIG”). The sentence was announced by Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland, Kevin Garrity, Deputy Inspector General for NSA’s Office of Inspector General and Robert P. Storch, Inspector General of the Department of Defense. According to evidence presented at her four-week jury trial, McComber was the Chief Executive Officer of an information technology company that had contracts with the NSA. Because the subject matter of these contracts involved classified information, most of the work had to be performed at a secure location, and there were significant limitations to the amount of work that could be performed off-site. According to the testimony, during approximately 19 months, McComber billed for her supposed work physically at the NSA, when in reality approximately 90% of the work she billed for was not when she physically was at the NSA. The evidence further showed that McComber at times did not work the number of hours on the contract that she recorded on her timesheets. For example, on occasions when McComber billed a full day to the contract, she participated in charity events, attended a reunion, and was on vacation. As further detailed in trial testimony, McComber participated in a voluntary interview with NSA-OIG investigators as a result of information received from a whistleblower indicating that McComber was billing the government for hours that she was not actually working. U.S. Attorney Barron commended the NSA-OIG and the DOD Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service, for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jefferson M. Gray and Department of Justice Fraud Section Trial Attorney Peter L. Cooch, who prosecuted the case. For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Shelton Man Charged with Producing Child Sex Abuse Images

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), New England, and Connecticut State Police Colonel Daniel Loughman today announced that ROSS DeLIBRO, 53, of Shelton, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with production of child pornography. DeLibro has been detained since his arrest on related state charges on June 11, 2024. As alleged in court documents, in March 2024, a detective assigned to the Connecticut State Police Computer Crimes Unit began an investigation into the sharing of child sex abuse images and videos over a peer-to-peer file sharing network. The investigation revealed that an internet protocol (IP) address assigned to DeLibro’s residence in Shelton had been used to download child sex abuse videos. On May 1, 2024, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of DeLibro’s residence and seized his Apple MacBook Air, his iPhone, an external hard drive, and other items. Analysis of the seized items revealed image and video files depicting male children being sexually abused, including two images in which DeLibro appears engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a toddler. The charge of production of child pornography carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years. U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This matter is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Connecticut State Police, with the assistance of the Shelton Police Department and the Connecticut Department of Emergency Services and Public Protection’s Division of Scientific Services. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel George and Nancy Gifford. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com . The U.S. Attorney’s Office Victim Advocate can be reached at usact.vns@usdoj.gov or 203-696-3039.


title: Colorado Man Sentenced to Nearly Three Years in Prison for  Stealing $2.1 Million of Cryptocurrency

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Adam Davis, 47, originally from Coatesville, PA, and now residing in Colorado, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Wendy Beetlestone to 33 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and more than $2.1 million in restitution for his theft of cryptocurrency from a Bucks County victim. On January 25, 2024, the defendant pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. From January 2014 to May 2021, a Bucks County victim invested approximately $395,000 in cryptocurrency. She hired the defendant to assist her with these investments and gave him direct access to her digital wallets. As the value of Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies increased, Davis began stealing the victim’s cryptocurrency. He transferred the stolen funds through numerous cryptocurrency addresses under his control, using peel chains and other tactics in an attempt to hide his theft. While the stolen funds were valued at approximately $2.1 million at the time of his theft, they reached a high of over $8 million in 2021, when the victim discovered the theft. By that point, the defendant had already cashed out most of the stolen cryptocurrency and spent those funds on his own living expenses and a business endeavor. “Whether we’re talking cryptocurrency or cold hard cash, stealing money that doesn’t belong to you is a crime,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Adam Davis took advantage of someone who’d turned to him for guidance, stringing the victim along as he drained assets from her accounts. My office and the Secret Service won’t hesitate to hold cybercriminals accountable for the laws they’ve broken and the harm they’ve caused their victims.” “Mr. Davis earned the victim’s trust in order to steal millions,” said Michael Centrella, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Secret Service’s Philadelphia Field Office. “The U.S. Secret Service will continue to investigate crimes involving the theft of cryptocurrency and work to hold individuals, like Mr. Davis, responsible for their actions.” The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah M. Wolfe. United States Secret Service analysts played a significant role in this case.


title: Georgia Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Drug Trafficking Offense

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Jeru-Ahmad Jibad Shakur, 49, of Hampton, Georgia, was sentenced to 210 months in federal prison, after previously pleading guilty for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the sentence. “Methamphetamine distribution is a scourge on large and small communities of our district,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “With our dedicated law enforcement partners, we are committed to identifying and aggressively prosecuting those who threaten our citizens’ health and safety by distributing such addictive, controlled substances.” The evidence showed that Shakur, along with co-conspirators, conspired to receive and distribute pound quantities of high-purity methamphetamine in the Northern District of Florida and elsewhere. Investigation revealed that Shakur supplied three pounds of high-purity methamphetamine to a co-conspirator, and personally sold four pounds of high-purity methamphetamine to an undercover agent in the Northern District of Florida. Investigation led to the seizure of approximately seven pounds of methamphetamine, as well as the indictment and conviction of two co-conspirators. “Methamphetamine is a highly-addictive substance that destroys families and communities,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “Our DEA agents will continue to work with law enforcement partners to stop those who traffic this illicit and dangerous drug.” Shakur’s prison sentence will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration in coordination with the Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, Suwanee County Sheriff’s Office, Columbia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Perry Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney David Byron prosecuted the case. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Former St. Charles County Youth Hockey Coach Sentenced to 75 Years in Prison for Recording His Sexual Abuse of Two Minors

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Pitlyk on Tuesday sentenced a former youth hockey coach who sexually abused two boys and recorded the abuse to 75 years in prison. James R. Lambert, 42, of Lake St. Louis, sexually abused one victim over 50 times between 2007 and 2018, starting when the victim was 6 years old. The sexual abuse occurred in St. Charles County, Missouri and in other states and foreign countries where the victim was taken by Lambert. Lambert also recorded his sexual abuse of the victim on numerous occasions. Lambert also admitted sexually abusing a second victim in St. Charles and St. Louis counties when that victim was between 6 and 9 years old. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson said Lambert displayed a “psychopathic level” of manipulation of his victims to keep them from disclosing the abuse and “true sadism” towards the children. After the first victim came forward, an investigation discovered hundreds of files on Lambert’s electronic devices documenting his abuse of the second victim. They also found at least 1,185 files containing child sexual abuse material that Lambert obtained online. Lambert pleaded guilty in February to two counts of production of child pornography, one count of transporting a minor across state lines to engage in criminal sexual activity, one count of receiving child pornography and one count of aggravated sexual abuse. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Lake St. Louis Police Department, the St. Charles County Cybercrime Task Force and the Maryland Heights Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case. "On behalf of the Lake Saint Louis Police Department we want to recognize all the hard work and effort put forth by our officers and staff, specifically Detective Sergeant Rick Frauenfelder and Detective Rebecca Hurwitz,” said Lake St. Louis Police Chief Chris DiGiuseppi. “We also appreciate our federal partners and the U.S. Attorney's Office who helped us seek justice for this horrific crime. Protecting children from those who would commit such heinous acts is one of the fundamental principles of why we, in law enforcement, serve in the criminal justice system." “This sentencing shows the magnitude of what can happen when predators commit these types of heinous crimes that exploits the most vulnerable among us,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Kansas City, Mark Zito. “HSI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to eradicate child exploitation and protect our children from harm.” 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 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .