title: Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Running Child Sexual Abuse Material Website

component: Criminal Division

body_text: An Alabama man was sentenced yesterday to life in prison for his involvement with a website dedicated to the advertisement and distribution of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. According to court documents, William Michael Spearman, 58, of Madison, was the lead administrator of the website, which had been operating for many years. The website included a section devoted to the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers, a section devoted to images and videos depicting children being subjected to pain and torture, and a section devoted to avoiding detection by law enforcement, among others. As the lead administrator, Spearman managed numerous other “staff” members, directed them on how to help run the site, recommended other users for promotion, kept records of child sexual abuse material advertised and distributed over the site, presided over staff meetings, praised and scolded users, and counseled users and other managers about the functions and expectations of the website. Spearman also advertised and distributed over the website images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. On June 12, 2023, Spearman pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. The following defendants have also been convicted and sentenced in the Southern District of Florida for their involvement with the same website: Defendant Residence Case Status Selwyn David Rosenstein Boynton Beach, Florida Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography, five counts of advertisement of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. Sentenced on Dec. 12, 2022, to 28 years in prison and ordered to pay $80,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Gregory Malcolm Good Silver Springs, Nevada Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 22, 2023, to 25 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $93,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Robert Preston Boyles Clarksville, Tennessee Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 15, 2023, to 23 years and four months in prison and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Matthew Branden Garrell Raleigh, North Carolina Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 1, 2023, to 20 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $158,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Joseph Addison Martin Tahuya, Washington Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. Sentencing is scheduled for April 2 in Ft. Pierce, Florida. Joseph Robert Stewart Milton, Washington Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentencing is scheduled for April 18 in Ft. Pierce, Florida. Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement. The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit and Miami Field Office, West Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the cases. Trial Attorneys Kyle P. Reynolds and William G. Clayman of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller for the Southern District of Florida prosecuted this case. Substantial assistance for these cases was provided by FBI Field Offices and Resident Agencies in Huntsville, Alabama; Reno, Nevada; Clarksville, Tennessee; Raleigh, North Carolina; and Madison, Wisconsin; CEOS’s High Technology Investigative Unit; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Northern District of Alabama, District of Nevada, Middle District of Tennessee, Eastern District of North Carolina, and Western District of Wisconsin. 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 Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . We encourage anyone who suspects or has information regarding trafficking of minors, sextortion, child pornography or any other means of child exploitation to immediately contact law enforcement. You can file a report on the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)'s website at www.cybertipline.com, call 1-800-843-5678, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or call 877-4-HSI TIP.


title: New Britain Man Involved in Coast-to-Coast Drug Trafficking Pleads Guilty

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division. today announced that RAMON RAMOS-ACEVEDO, 48, of New Britain, pleaded guilty yesterday in Hartford federal court to a charge stemming from the large scale trafficking of fentanyl and cocaine. According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2022, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s (USPIS) Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force identified suspicious packages that were being to a New Britain address connected to Ramos-Acevedo and his associate, Victor Rodriguez-Gomez, also known as “Calami,” of Desert Hot Springs, California. A court-authorized search of one package, which had been mailed from California, revealed approximately one kilogram of fentanyl and one kilogram of heroin. In July 2022, USPIS investigators in San Bernardino, California, contacted Connecticut investigators to report that a court-authorized search of a package that was addressed to a residence on Willow Street in New Britain revealed eight cell phones. On August 1, 2022, investigators conducted a controlled delivery of the package in New Britain and observed Ramos-Acevedo and Rodriguez-Gomez take possession of it. Investigators identified several additional suspicious packages associated with Ramos-Acevedo and, on August 11, 2022, observed Ramos-Acevedo in California mailing packages to an address in New Britain. Investigators also developed evidence that Rodriguez-Gomez had an associate who used a van to transport narcotics from California, or another location in the southwestern United States, to addresses in Connecticut associated with Ramos-Acevedo. On August 25, 2022, investigators observed Ramos-Acevedo unloading items from the van in New Britain. On September 7, 2022, the Connecticut State Police, which was assisting with surveillance, stopped a vehicle that Ramos-Acevedo was driving in Newington for a motor vehicle violation. Rodriguez-Gomez was a passenger in the vehicle. After a K-9 alerted to several items within the vehicle, a search revealed $179,578 in cash and nine cellphones. A subsequent search of a house in Farmington where Ramos-Acevedo claimed he was living resulted in the seizure of an additional $30,426 in cash. On November 30, 2022, the Iowa State Patrol stopped Rodriguez-Gomez’s associate, who was driving the van that had been identified in August 2022. A search of the van revealed approximately 22 kilograms of cocaine and two kilograms of fentanyl, which was destined for Ramos-Acevedo in New Britain. Ramos-Acevedo, who has been detained since his arrest on December 1, 2022, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and five kilograms or more of cocaine, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea on April 15. Rodriguez-Gomez, 48, who has been detained since his arrest on December 4, 2022, pleaded guilty to the same charge on December 4, 2023. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Shea on March 8. This investigation is being conducted by the DEA’s Hartford Task Force and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s Narcotics and Bulk Cash Trafficking Task Force. The DEA Task Force includes personnel from the DEA Hartford Resident Office, the Connecticut State Police, and the Bristol, Hartford, East Hartford, Enfield, Manchester, New Britain, Rocky Hill, Wethersfield, and Windsor Locks Police Departments. The USPIS Task Force includes members from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service – Office of the Inspector General, the Connecticut Army National Guard, and the Hartford, New Britain, Meriden, and Town of Groton Police Departments. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Geoffrey M. Stone and Shan Patel.


title: Dallas Business Owner Charged With Tax Evasion

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: A Westlake man who owns several businesses, bars and nightclubs in the DFW area who allegedly hasn’t paid taxes since 1992 has been federally charged, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton. Dhanesh Deoraj Ganesh was indicted Wednesday, January 17th on five counts of tax evasion, one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and one count of conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. He was arrested on Friday and made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Rebecca Rutherford Monday. According to the indictment, Mr. Ganesh, 62, allegedly concealed his ownership in his businesses by using nominee names, including his ex-wife, his brothers, and his sons. Mr. Ganesh did not have bank accounts in his personal name and did not have signatory authority on bank accounts opened in the names of the companies he controlled. Payments from these businesses were collected in check and cash form. The checks were cashed at check-cashing businesses and then used to purchase cashier’s checks in amounts under $3,000. Mr. Ganesh has not filed a personal or business income tax return since 1992. The scheme allegedly resulted in approximately $1.6 million in unpaid taxes. In addition, Mr. Ganesh and others used some of the restaurants and bars to sell cocaine. An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Mr. Ganesh is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in prison for each of the five counts of tax evasion, 20 years in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and 20 years in prison for conspiracy to launder monetary instruments. IRS – Criminal Investigations’ Dallas Field Division conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Walters of the Northern District of Texas is prosecuting the case.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Collects Over $20 Million in  Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2023

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTESVILLE- Va.- United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh announced today that the Western District of Virginia collected $20,747,820.84 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2023. Of this amount, $13,068,847.12 was collected in criminal actions and $7,678,973.72 was collected in civil actions . Additionally, the Western District of Virginia worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $40,042,441.35 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. “My Office is committed to pursuing justice, both criminally and civilly, in order to protect the interests of the United States in every city, town, and county in the Western District of Virginia,” United States Attorney Kavanaugh said today. “As federal prosecutors, we have numerous tools we use to ensure that defendants are deprived of the ill-gotten financial gains of their criminal activity. These numbers, along with other metrics, prove that the Western District of Virginia is the wrong place for criminals to operate.” In July 2023, the Western District of Virginia recovered $4.6 million as part of the settlement in the Health Connect America (HCA) case. HCA, headquartered in Franklin, Tennessee with locations in Big Stone Gap and Culpeper, Virginia, agreed to pay $4,611,375 to resolve allegations that it billed Virginia Medicaid for services not provided. Specifically, the allegations involved HCA billing Medicaid improperly for three separate behavioral health services available to children who qualify. The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office for the Western District of Virginia, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $19,321,456 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2023. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.


title: Member of Violent Gang Pleads Guilty to Racketeering, Drug and Firearm Offenses

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Boston man pleaded guilty yesterday in connection with his role in Cameron Street, a violent Boston gang. Paulo Santos, a/k/a “Bucky,” 35, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to participate in a racketeering enterprise (commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy), possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for April 24, 2024. According to court documents, Cameron Street is a violent gang based largely in the Dorchester section of Boston that uses violence and threats of violence to preserve, protect and expand its territory, promote a climate of fear and enhance its reputation. Cameron Street members possess, carry and use firearms to murder and assault gang rivals as well as protect narcotics and drug proceeds. As part of his role in the gang Santos, and another Cameron Street member, assaulted and robbed a rival gang member outside the Dorchester District Court on Dec. 6, 2019. In a video posted on Snapchat later that day, Santos identified the victim as a Wendover gang member and encouraged his fellow Cameron Street member to attack the victim. At the time of Santos’ arrest, approximately 900 grams of cocaine, 500 grams of marijuana, a loaded Smith and Wesson .38 caliber revolver and $15,597 in cash were seized from his stash house in Hingham. Santos was previously convicted of unlawfully possessing a firearm in Suffolk County, for which he served a four-to-five-year state prison sentence. The charge of RICO conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to 40 years in prison, at least four years of supervised release and a fine of up to $5 million. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years 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. This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher J. Pohl and Charles Dell’Anno of the Criminal Division are prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.


title: New Orleans Man Indicted for Machinegun Possession

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

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – XAVION WATTS , age 19, a New Orleans resident, was indicted on January 19, 2023 for possession of a machinegun, in violation of 18 U.S.C. 922(o). WATTS faces up to 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, up to three years of supervised release, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $100. The indictment alleges that the Glock nine-millimeter pistol he possessed had been converted into a fully automatic weapon. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the New Orleans Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Miller of the Violent Crime Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: U.S. Attorney's Office Collects More Than $7.5 Million In Civil and Criminal Actions In Fiscal Year 2023

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Western

body_text: MADISON, WIS. – U.S. Attorney Timothy M. O’Shea announced today that the Western District of Wisconsin collected $7,596,171.74 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2023. Of this amount, $5,862,991.16 was collected in criminal actions and $1,733,180.58 was collected in civil actions. “Collecting money owed to crime victims and to the United States in criminal and civil cases is a priority of our office,” said U.S. Attorney O’Shea. “Our collections program is committed to holding defendants financially accountable for their illegal activities and ensuring that their debts, particularly to victims, are paid.” The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the United States and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in the Western District of Wisconsin, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $1,043,540 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2023. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.


title: New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Violating Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LA , - United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that TYRONE SMOTHERS , age 41, of New Orleans, plead guilty on January 18, 2024, to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1), 841(b)(1)(C), and 841(b)(1)(D); possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A)(i); and being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). According to court documents, SMOTHERS was previously convicted of felony offenses in Orleans Parish. Due to his criminal history, he is prohibited from having a firearm. He was indicted for possessing multiple firearms on May 17, 2023. He was also charged in the indictment with possessing fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and marijuana with the intent to distribute as well as possessing the firearms in furtherance of his drug distribution. For the possession with intent to distribute charge, SMOTHERS faces up to twenty (20) years imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three (3) years of supervised release. For the possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking charge, SMOTHERS faces a minimum of five (5) years up to life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to five (5) years of supervised release. For the possession of a firearm as a convicted felon charge, SMOTHERS faces up to fifteen (15) years imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, and up to three (3) years of supervised release. For each charge, SMOTHERS faces payment of a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing is scheduled for April 25, 2024. 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. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. The case is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas Rayburn of the Violent Crime Unit.


title: Milwaukee Man Convicted of Sex Trafficking

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: Gregory J. Haanstad, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on January 19, 2024, a jury found defendant Samuel L. Spencer, who used the alias “Bin Laden,” guilty of four counts of Sex Trafficking by Force, Fraud, or Coercion, and one count of Conspiracy to Engage in Sex Trafficking following a two-week trial in Milwaukee. The evidence presented at trial established that between 2005 and 2020, Spencer was a street-level drug dealer who used crack cocaine and heroin, along with false promises of a romantic relationship, to lure female victims to earn money for him by performing commercial sex acts in southeastern Wisconsin, northern Illinois, and other midwestern states. The victims testified that Spencer took everything they earned, controlling them with severe physical violence, the threat of withholding drugs, isolation, and other forms of coercion to ensure they complied with his demands. “The jury’s verdict in this case was the result of tireless work by federal, state, and local law enforcement as well as Mr. Spencer’s victims having the courage to give voice to the trauma they suffered,” said U.S. Attorney Haanstad. “January is Human Trafficking Awareness month, and this case serves as another example of the fact that sex trafficking and labor trafficking can happen anywhere. If you suspect that someone is being trafficked, please report it to law enforcement or call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1-888-373-7888. The hotline is staffed around the clock.” Spencer faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and up to a maximum sentence of life in prison. Sentencing has been set for May 16, 2024, before Chief Judge Pamela Pepper. The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated the case, with the assistance of the Milwaukee Police Department, the Glendale Police Department, the Oak Creek Police Department, and the Franklin Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Erica J. Lounsberry and Julie F. Stewart prosecuted the case. # # # For Additional Information Contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov 414-297-1700 Follow us on Twitter


title: Jury Convicts Registered Sex Offender of Sexually Exploiting a Minor

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: BENTON, Ill. – A federal jury convicted a registered sex offender in St. Clair County of sexually exploiting another minor. Members of the jury found Dan R. Waeckerle, Jr., 44, of Swansea, guilty of soliciting an obscene visual depiction of a minor, transferring obscene matter to a minor, sexual exploitation of a minor and offense by a registered sex offender. “I’m grateful for the law enforcement agencies who investigated this case and pursued justice for Waeckerle’s victim and prevented other children from his abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. According to court documents, Waeckerle had sexually explicit conversations with a minor via text message in July 2021. Evidence presented during the trial revealed Waeckerle sent the minor a nude image, requested sexually explicit images from the minor, and discussed meeting the minor for sex. “We are thankful for the training and resources provided by our federal partners which have allowed our detectives to be extremely successful in investigating cases such as these,” said O’Fallon Police Captain Mike Mojzis. “We appreciate the hard work and dedication of our detectives in striving to seek justice for the victim.” Waeckerle was previously convicted of aggravated sexual abuse against a minor in Hamilton County in 2010. “The U.S. Secret Service remains committed to investigating and arresting individuals who sexually exploit children and transmit child sexual abuse material,” said Stephen S. Webster, Resident Agent in Charge of the Secret Service Springfield Resident Office. “We are proud of our partnerships with the federal, state, and local agencies who work collectively to investigate and prosecute crimes against minors. These predators cause significant and long-lasting damage, and we are dedicated to holding them accountable.” Sexual exploitation of a minor carries a statutory minimum of 25 years’ imprisonment due to Waeckerle’s prior criminal history. Waeckerle’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. on May 21, 2024, at the federal courthouse in Benton. This investigation was conducted by the U.S. Secret Service Central and Southern Illinois Financial and Cyber Crimes Task Force, with members from the O’Fallon Police Department leading the investigation. Additional support was provided by the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, Swansea Police Department and the Illinois State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ali Burns and Zoe Gross prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood , a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims.


title: Honduran National Indicted for Illegal Re-Entry of Removed Alien

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – HIBIS TURCIO-SANCHEZ , age 44, a native of Honduras, was indicted on January 19, 2024, for illegal re-entry of a removed alien, in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to the indictment, TURCIO-SANCHEZ reentered the United States illegally after being previously deported on October 14, 2016. If convicted, TURCIO-SANCHEZ faces an enhanced sentence of up to 10 years imprisonment, up to 3 years of supervised release, up to a $250,000 fine, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. TURCIO-SANCHEZ faces an enhanced sentence due to his 2016 felony conviction for assaulting a federal official. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Homeland Security Investigations in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Paul J. Hubbell of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Approximately 40 Individuals Arrested in Multi-State Drug Trafficking Takedown

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – Approximately 40 individuals were arrested today pursuant to 10 federal indictments filed in the Southern District of Mississippi charging defendants from Lauderdale, Newton, Neshoba, Scott, and Jasper counties in Mississippi, as well as Mexico, California, Texas, and Alabama. The charges stem from a four-year federal investigation of multiple drug trafficking operations distributing methamphetamine, cocaine, and other illegal drugs. The indictments charge various drug trafficking crimes, including, but not limited, to possession with intent to distribute controlled substances and conspiracy to do so. Several defendants face mandatory minimum sentences because of the significant quantities of illegal drugs involved, and some defendants face enhanced penalties for crimes involving methamphetamine where minors were present, or for drug trafficking near schools. Additionally, some defendants have been charged with firearms-related crimes or using a telephone to threaten injury or death to another by means of an explosive device. The following defendants were arrested today: Tavia Armstrong, 32, of Meridian; Alyssia Boose, 32, of Newton; Billy Boose, 46, of Newton; Fred Campbell, 49, of Meridian; Jacoby Clayton, 29, of Meridian; Mario Cole, 37, of Meridian; Bobby Coleman, 35, of Union; George Collier, 46, of Pelahatchie; Christopher Evans, 47, of Union; Tabbgrinn Graham, 33, of Decatur; James Green, 52, of Meridian; Cassady Harris, 37, of Union; Yvette Herring, 45, of Riverside, CA; Dakota Holt, 32, of Meridian; Edward House, 46, of Meridian; Jeffery Jennings, 40, of Meridian; James Johnson, 50, of Louin; Cedric Jones, 52, of Houston, TX; Lajason Jones, 43, of Decatur; Markee Jones, 44, of Meridian; Nathan Kendricks, 46, of Meridian; Kevin King, 41, of Meridian; Todrian Laphand, 30, of Meridian; John Little, 31, of Meridian; Nicholas Massey, 35, of Decatur; Kenneth McCurdy, 43, of Forest; Jeffery Murrell, 54, of Newton; Johnny Patton, 42, of Quitman; Darius Powell, 35, of Meridian; Marcus Powell, 38, of Meridian; Raykeitdgrith Ricks, 41, of Lawrence; Znthony Ruffin, 38, of Toomsuba; Dustin Jamal Russell, 33, of Newton; Steven Savell, 48, of Union; Carlos Seals, 42, of Meridian; Brandon Slaughter, 31, Meridian; Jacorie Smith, 27, of Meridian; Curtis Spivey, 39 of Philadelphia; Billy Wilson, 52, of Cuba, AL; and Crisseta Woods, 46, of Union. Additional defendants charged in the indictments have not yet been arrested. Initial court appearances are scheduled to begin on Wednesday, January 24, 2024, at 9:00 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judges F. Keith Ball and LaKeysha Greer Isaac in U.S. District Court in Jackson. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee of the Southern District of Mississippi, Acting Special Agent in Charge Eric DeLaune of Homeland Security Investigations, Acting Special Agent in Charge Steve Hofer of the Drug Enforcement Administration, Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and U.S. Marshal Mark Shepherd. The cases are being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the East Mississippi Drug Task Force and Lauderdale County Sheriff’s Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Alabama 17th Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force, the Newton County Sheriff’s Department, and the Scott County Sheriff’s Department. The following agencies also assisted in the investigation: U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Mississippi Highway Patrol, Mississippi Bureau of Investigations, Neshoba County Sheriff’s Office, Philadelphia Police Department, Decatur Police Department, Union Police Department, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, Mississippi Commercial Truck Enforcement Division, Mississippi Department of Wildlife, Fisheries, and Parks, Mississippi Alcoholic Beverage Control, and the Mississippi Department of Corrections. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carla J. Clark is prosecuting the cases. The Office of Enforcement Operations in the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division also provided assistance. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. 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: Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Running  Child Sexual Abuse Material Website

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – An Alabama man was sentenced yesterday, in Ft. Pierce, Florida, to life in prison for his involvement with a website dedicated to the advertisement and distribution of images and videos depicting child sexual abuse. According to court documents, William Michael Spearman, 58, of Madison, was the lead administrator of the website, which had been operating for many years. The website included a section devoted to the sexual abuse of infants and toddlers, a section devoted to images and videos depicting children being subjected to pain and torture, and a section devoted to avoiding detection by law enforcement, among others. As the lead administrator, Spearman managed numerous other “staff” members, directed them on how to help run the site, recommended other users for promotion, kept records of child sexual abuse material advertised and distributed over the site, presided over staff meetings, praised and scolded users, and counseled users and other managers about the functions and expectations of the website. Spearman also advertised and distributed over the website images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of children. On June 12, Spearman pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. The following defendants have also been convicted and sentenced in the Southern District of Florida for their involvement with the same website: Defendant Residence Case Status Selwyn David Rosenstein Boynton Beach, Florida Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography, five counts of advertisement of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. Sentenced on Dec. 12, 2022, to 28 years in prison and ordered to pay $80,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Gregory Malcolm Good Silver Springs, Nevada Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 22, 2023, to 25 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $93,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Robert Preston Boyles Clarksville, Tennessee Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 15, 2023, to 23 years and four months in prison and ordered to pay $7,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Matthew Branden Garrell Raleigh, North Carolina Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentenced on Aug. 1, 2023, to 20 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to pay $158,500 in restitution to victims of his offense. Joseph Addison Martin Tahuya, Washington Pleaded guilty to engaging in a child exploitation enterprise. Sentencing is scheduled for April 2, 2024, in Ft. Pierce, Florida. Joseph Robert Stewart Milton, Washington Pleaded guilty to conspiracy to advertise child pornography and conspiracy to distribute child pornography. Sentencing is scheduled for April 18, 2024, in Ft. Pierce, Florida. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida, Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement. The FBI’s Child Exploitation Operational Unit and Miami Field Office, West Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the cases. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorneys Kyle P. Reynolds and William G. Clayman of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) prosecuted this case. Substantial assistance for these cases was provided by FBI Field Offices and Resident Agencies in Huntsville, Alabama; Reno, Nevada; Clarksville, Tennessee; Raleigh, North Carolina; and Madison, Wisconsin; CEOS’s High Technology Investigative Unit; and the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Northern District of Alabama, District of Nevada, Middle District of Tennessee, Eastern District of North Carolina, and Western District of Wisconsin. 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 Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . We encourage anyone who suspects or has information regarding trafficking of minors, sextortion, child pornography or any other means of child exploitation to immediately contact law enforcement. You can file a report on the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC)'s website at www.cybertipline.com , call 1-800-843-5678, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324), or call 877-4-HSI TIP. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 22-CR-80173. ###


title: Former Police Chief And Doctor Plead Guilty To Insider Trading Around Alexion Pharmaceuticals’ Acquisition Of Portola Pharmaceuticals

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced today that SHAWN CRONIN and PAUL FELDMAN each pled guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah Netburn to one count of securities fraud in connection with their participation in an insider trading scheme surrounding the announcement of Alexion Pharmaceutical, Inc.’s acquisition of Portola Pharmaceuticals, Inc. CRONIN and FELDMAN were arrested in June 2023. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As a law enforcement leader, Cronin was sworn to uphold the law and was trusted to set an example for junior officers. And as a medical doctor, Feldman held a position of trust and respect in our society. Rather than live up to their posts, these men broke the rules to try to make a quick buck. Their convictions reflect my Office’s ongoing commitment to relentlessly rooting out corruption in our financial markets.” According to the allegations in the Indictment and statements made in public court proceedings: In 2020, CRONIN, FELDMAN, and others engaged in an insider trading scheme surrounding the announcement of Alexion’s acquisition of Portola. In April 2020, before that acquisition was publicly announced, CRONIN’s childhood friend, a then-vice president at Alexion, misappropriated material, non-public information (“MNPI”) about the acquisition and provided it to CRONIN so that CRONIN could profitably trade in securities. In turn, CRONIN, who, at the time, was a police sergeant in Dighton, Massachusetts, and went on to become the police chief, provided another friend with the MNPI about Portola’s pending acquisition, both so that that friend could trade in advance of the acquisition and so that that friend would assist CRONIN in formulating trading strategies to maximize CRONIN’s trading profits. The friend CRONIN tipped was a physician who went on to tip his friend and colleague, FELDMAN. FELDMAN, for his part, aggressively bought Portola call options and also tipped at least five additional individuals who traded on the tip. After Alexion’s acquisition of Portola was publicly announced on the morning of May 5, 2020, causing Portola’s stock price to increase significantly, CRONIN, FELDMAN, and others who had purchased shares and options based on the inside information sold their securities, reaping millions of dollars of illegally obtained profits. * * * CRONIN, 44, of Dighton, Massachusetts, and FELDMAN, 49, of Poughquag, New York, each pled guilty to one count of securities fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. CRONIN and FELDMAN will be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gregory H. Woods on May 13, 2024. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Mr. Williams also thanked the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission, which has filed a parallel civil action. This case is being handled by the Office’s Securities and Commodities Fraud Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Margaret Graham, Sarah Mortazavi, and Samuel P. Rothschild are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Troy man charged with evidence tampering in grizzly bear killing

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: MISSOULA — A Troy man was charged this week with evidence tampering related to the shooting and killing of a grizzly bear on his property in 2020 and the discarding of the bear’s GPS collar in the Yaak River, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today. An information filed in U.S. District Court on Jan. 22 charges Othel Lee Pearson, 80, of Troy, with tampering with evidence, a felony, and failure to report taking of grizzly bear, a misdemeanor. Pearson faces a maximum of 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and three years of supervised release on the evidence tampering charge and a maximum of six months in prison and a $25,000 fine on the failure to report charge. A court date for Pearson’s appearance has not yet been set. The charging documents are merely accusations and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. “As alleged, Pearson discarded a GPS collar on a grizzly bear and hid the bear’s claws and an ear tag in an attempt to avoid criminal prosecution for unlawfully killing a grizzly bear. Such conduct is illegal and, as shown here, will result in the prosecution of a federal felony,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said. The parties informed the court that there is a plea agreement in the matter, and it is anticipated that Pearson has agreed to plead guilty to both charges in the information. The plea agreement calls for the government and defendant to jointly recommend a sentence of three years of probation and an $8,000 fine. In exchange for guilty pleas, the United States agrees not to prosecute another individual in connection with the taking of the grizzly bear, and Pearson agrees to cooperate with the United States regarding the skull of a second grizzly bear discovered on National Forest System lands near his property. As alleged in court documents, on Nov. 19, 2020, Pearson shot and killed a sow grizzly bear on his residential property, using a .270 rifle. Pearson cut a GPS collar that had been fitted to the bear and discarded the collar nearby in the Yaak River. Pearson also cut paws, ear tags and an identifying lip tattoo from the bear carcass. Pearson then concealed the bear’s claws and an ear tag in a hollowed-out tree on National Forest System land near his residence. As further alleged, Pearson tampered with these identifying objects to impair the criminal prosecution for the unlawful killing of the grizzly bear. Pearson did not report the killing of the grizzly bear to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service within five days of occurrence. Assistant U.S. Attorney Randy Tanner is prosecuting the case. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducted the investigation. PACER case reference. 24-4. The progress of cases may be monitored through the U.S. District Court Calendar and the PACER system. To establish a PACER account, which provides electronic access to review documents filed in a case, please visit http://www.pacer.gov/register.html . To access the District Court’s calendar, please visit https://ecf.mtd.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/PublicCalendar.pl . XXX


title: Current and Former Owners of Center City Philadelphia Pharmacy Agree to Pay Over $4.6 Million to Resolve Civil Investigations of Improper Medicare and Medicaid Billing

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced today that Jai Shri Krishna LLC, the current owner of Pennmark Pharmacy in Philadelphia, and Pennmark Pharmacy Inc., the former owner of the pharmacy, have separately agreed to pay, in total, over $4.6 million to resolve the False Claims Act liability of Jai Shri Krishna and its pharmacist and the unjust enrichment liability of Pennmark Pharmacy Inc. Jai Shri Krishna LLC has operated Pennmark Pharmacy on South Street in southwestern Center City since January 2018. During that time, Antim Patel, a member of the LLC, has been Pennmark Pharmacy’s principal pharmacist. Jai Shri Krishna LLC and Mr. Patel will jointly pay $3,955,173.79 to the federal government to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by billing Medicare and Medicaid for prescription medications that were not actually dispensed during the period from January 12, 2018, through September 30, 2020. These medications include but are not limited to Latuda, Sprycel, Metformin Hydrochloride, Truvada, Advair Diskus, Genvoya, Triumeq, Tremfya, Tivicay, Breo Ellipta, Anoro Ellipta, Spiriva Respimat, Januvia, Vanos 0.1% cream, Isentress, and Biktarvy. In some cases, such as for Metformin Hydrochloride and Vanos 0.1% cream, the government alleges that Jai Shri Krishna LLC billed Medicare for high-cost formulations of the medications while dispensing lower-cost formulations to beneficiaries. As part of their resolution with the United States, Jai Shri Krishna LLC and Antim Patel have entered into an integrity agreement with the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General. The integrity agreement requires them to undertake substantial compliance obligations and to contract with an Independent Review Organization that will conduct third-party audits of their Medicare claims and drug inventory. Pennmark Pharmacy Inc. has separately agreed to pay $700,530 to resolve allegations that it and its principal, Engin Celik, were unjustly enriched as a result of billing Medicare and Medicaid, during the period from June 17, 2015, through January 11, 2018, for prescription medications that were not actually dispensed. These medications include but are not limited to Symbicort, Aripiprazole, Ventolin HFA, Isentress, Sensipar, Advair Diskus, Prezista, Renvela, and Flovent HFA. “Pharmacies and pharmacists are in a position to serve their communities as vital components of our medical system; they have a responsibility not to abuse their positions for profit,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Taxpayers expect that their dollars will be spent on medications needed by Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries. The U.S. Attorney’s Office works every day to ensure that taxpayer dollars are not wasted on fraud and abuse.” “Pharmacies are responsible for all claims they submit to Medicare and Medicaid,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General. “HHS-OIG and the U.S. Attorney’s Office take allegations of health care fraud seriously and will work together to ensure taxpayer dollars are only spent on bona fide medical claims.” The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General. It was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elizabeth L. Coyne and Rebecca S. Melley and Auditor George Niedzwicki.


title: New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun and Drug Violations

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – ASHTON CAUSEY , age 22, a resident of Orleans Parish, pled guilty on January 19, 2024, before U.S. District Judge Darrel James Papillion to Counts 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, and 8 of the indictment pending against him. Count 1 charged CAUSEY with the illegal possession of a machinegun, in violation of Title 18 USC § 922(o). Count 3 charged him with possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of marijuana, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. § §841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(D). Counts 4 and 7 charged him with possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of a mixture or substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl and marijuana, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) and (D). Count 5 charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. § 922(g). Count 8 charged him with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. § 924(c). Based on his guilty plea, CAUSEY will face the following sentences as to each count: As to Count 1, CAUSEY faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to years of supervised release. . As to Count 3, CAUSEY faces up to 5 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine, and up to years of supervised release. As to Counts 4 and 7, CAUSEY faces up to 20 years in prison, up to a $1,000,000.00 fine, and up to years of supervise release. As to Count 5, CAUSEY faces up to 10 years in prison, up to a $250,000.00 fine , and up to years of supervised release. As to Count 8 , CAUSEY faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years up to a maximum of life in prison, up to a $250,000 fine , and up to years of supervise release. Any jail sentence imposed in connection with Count 8 must be served consecutive to any other count. Additionally, as to each charged count, CAUSEY faces payment of a mandatory $100 special assessment fee . 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. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the New Orleans Police Department, the Louisiana State Police, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Maurice E. Landrieu, Jr of the Narcotics Unit.


title: National Human Trafficking Prevention Month: U.S. Attorney and HSI Announce Partnership in Tornado Alley Child Exploitation and Trafficking Task Force

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: As part of National Human Trafficking Prevention Month, U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson is announcing partnership in the Tornado Alley Child Exploitation and Trafficking Task Force (TACETT) created by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). TACETT will be proactive on crimes against children relating to the internet including the distribution and production of child pornography, child enticement or exploitation, and human trafficking. The task force will also investigate other child-related cases, including, but not limited to, missing / abducted children, sexting and indecent exposure where children are victims. In addition, the task force will conduct outreach in communities in Oklahoma in an attempt to identify unreported crimes involving children, as well as conducting educational outreach at schools and various youth community organizations. This partnership will multiply each agency’s resources, authorities, and jurisdictions to prevent, identify, investigate, and ultimately prosecute child exploitation and human trafficking related crimes. This will also enable HSI and its partners to share resources, best practices and intelligence assets thereby maximizing their ability to conduct effective investigations to combat human trafficking and ever-evolving crimes against children. “This task force is designed to foster closer relationships between the Northern District of Oklahoma and federal, state, tribal and local law enforcement who are actively involved in any child exploitation and human trafficking related investigations,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “Federal prosecutors and law enforcement will do everything within our power to protect victims of child exploitation and human trafficking.” “Protecting our most marginalized and vulnerable is a major priority for HSI,” said Lester R. Hayes, Jr., Special Agent in Charge, HSI Dallas. “The creation of this task force will enhance our law enforcement capabilities immensely.” The TACETT incorporates personnel from HSI Tulsa, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigations, Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Tulsa Police Department, Oklahoma Attorney General’s Office, Rogers County Sheriff’s Office, LeFlore County District Attorney’s Office, Muskogee Police Department, Tulsa County District Attorney’s Office, Pryor Creek Police Department, Skiatook Police Department, Broken Arrow Police Department, Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office, Collinsville Police Department, Owasso Police Department, Mayes County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, Checotah Police Department, Sapulpa Police Department, Bristow Police Department, Glenpool Police Department, Tahlequah Police Department, Coweta Police Department, Muscogee Creek Nation Lighthorse Police Department, Osage County Sheriff’s Office, McCurtain County Sheriff’s Office, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. If you or someone you know is a victim of child exploitation or experienced human trafficking, confidential help is available. Resources and contact information for child exploitation is available through the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children . Human trafficking resources and contact information is available through the National Human Trafficking Hotline Call: 1-888-373-7888; Text: HELP to 233733 (BEFREE); or Chat: humantraffickinghotline.org/chat .


title: Orleans Parish Woman Sentenced for Federal Drug and Gun Offenses

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – DANIELLE REED , age 43, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on January 17, 2024 to 130 months imprisonment, three (3) years supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. REED previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C) and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 924(c)(1)(A). According to court documents, a Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) investigation revealed that REED was a drug dealer who primarily sold crystal methamphetamine. DEA agents utilized a confidential source to conduct two controlled purchases of methamphetamine from REED . On April 19, 2022, DEA agents seized a quantity of methamphetamine and two firearms from REED . 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. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney J. Benjamin Myers of the Financial Crimes Unit.


title: Federal Jury Finds Hernando Man Guilty Of Destruction Of Evidence And Accessing With Intent To View Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that a federal jury has found Basilio Jim Diaz (64, Hernando County) guilty of destruction of evidence and accessing with the intent to view child sexual abuse material. Diaz faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for each offense. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 17, 2024. Diaz has also agreed to forfeit his electronic devices which were used in the commission of the offense. According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on March 9, 2023, the FBI executed a search warrant at Diaz’s home seeking evidence of child exploitation. When the FBI announced their presence, Diaz refused to exit his home. FBI SWAT members used an armored vehicle to break through the front door and obtain a visual inside the home. The SWAT agents also deployed two drones to better assess the situation inside the home. After nearly an hour, Diaz disabled one of the drones and while holding the second drone, the SWAT agents safely entered the home and detained Diaz. A search of the home revealed that Diaz had spent those 45 - 50 minutes destroying evidence. Despite Diaz’s efforts, the FBI used forensic tools to recover thousands of images and videos depicting the child sexual abuse and exploitation of children from Diaz’s laptop. Agents also recovered two child-like sex dolls. This case was investigated by the FBI, the Hernando County Sheriff’s Office, and Task Force Officers from the Tampa Police Department and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ilyssa M. Spergel and Ross D. Roberts. 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: Drug Kingpin Pleads Guilty to Trafficking Mexican-Origin Cocaine into Georgia


title: Nashville Man Sentenced to 32 Months in Federal Prison for Assault Committed as an Escaped Federal Inmate

component: USAO - Tennessee, Middle

body_text: NASHVILLE -- Marchello Shobe, who committed a violent assault after escaping from a federal facility, was sentenced to 32 months in federal prison for his actions, announced United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. Shobe, 42 of Nashville, Tennessee, had previously been convicted of violent felonies. He was sentenced to ten years in federal prison in 2011 for throwing a Molotov cocktail at an ex-girlfriend. In March of 2021, Shobe arrived at a halfway house maintained by the U.S. Bureau of Prisons and designed to help inmates transition back to civilian life from a prison setting. He escaped from the halfway house barely a month after arriving there. The day after he escaped, on April 21, 2021, Shobe violently assaulted a Nashville woman in a business parking lot in Nashville. Further investigation revealed that he had previously exchanged letters with the woman while he was in prison. Shobe was later indicted by a federal grand jury and convicted of Escape. Yesterday, U.S. District Judge Eli Richardson sentenced Shobe to 32 months in federal prison and ordered that this sentence be served consecutively to the prior sentence Shobe received for assaulting the woman while on escape status. Shobe was also sentenced to three years of supervised release to follow his prison sentence. “This defendant has a long history of violence,” said United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. “Today’s sentence holds him accountable for his actions and should send a message that those who escape from federal custody will be prosecuted to the fullest extent under the law.” This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire prosecuted the case for the United States. #####


title: Murderer of Deputy U.S. Marshal Sentenced to Life Imprisonment

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Ryan Schlesinger, 31, of Tucson, was sentenced yesterday by United States District Court Judge Raner C. Collins to life in prison for second-degree murder, plus consecutive sentences of 20 years for attempted murder and 50 years for discharging a firearm during the commission of a violent offense. In November 2023, a federal jury convicted Schlesinger of second-degree murder of a federal officer, three counts of attempted murder of a federal officer, four counts of assault of a federal officer, and five counts of discharging a firearm during the commission of a violent offense. On November 29, 2018, deputies with the United States Marshals’ Arizona Wanted Violent Offender Task Force attempted to serve a felony arrest warrant on Schlesinger for allegedly stalking a Tucson Police Department (TPD) sergeant. While the Task Force attempted to execute the arrest warrant, Schlesinger outfitted himself in body armor. Schlesinger refused to exit his residence and opened fire on the deputies who were outside his window. Deputy U.S. Marshal Chase White was shot twice in the upper torso and died a short time later. Prior to the murder, Schlesinger had been in a yearlong dispute with the TPD. Schlesinger sent multiple threatening emails, went to a TPD officer’s parents’ home, and attempted to arrest a TPD sergeant. Despite being under multiple active injunctions against harassment, Schlesinger possessed three firearms in violation of those court-issued injunctions. Schlesinger sent a final threatening email to the TPD hours before the murder. After murdering Deputy White, Schlesinger surrendered to the TPD, wearing the body armor and a ballistic helmet. Deputy White was 41 years old. He is survived by his wife and four children. He was also a lieutenant colonel with the United States Air Force Reserve. Deputy White was the first Deputy U.S. Marshal killed in the line of duty in Tucson in 66 years. “The courage of survivors was on display this week in federal court,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “I am grateful to the family of Deputy U.S. Marshal Chase White for sharing poignant memories of their wonderful son, husband and father; and I am mindful of the valor of the men and women of the Marshals Service.” “This sentencing finalized the FBI’s efforts to hold Ryan Schlesinger accountable for his senseless act of violence. The diligence and fairness of the legal process has guaranteed Schlesinger will no longer be able to cause harm to law enforcement or members of the Tucson community," said Special Agent in Charge Akil Davis of the FBI’s Phoenix Field office. "The FBI will not waiver in its pursuit of justice no matter how long it takes." “Deputy U.S. Marshal Chase White tragically lost his life in the line of duty while bravely safeguarding the community from a dangerous and violent individual,” said Acting U.S. Marshal Van Bayless. “Chase epitomizes the ideals of a dedicated Guardian and compassionate man who extended his help to those in need. His legacy will live on through the United States Marshals Service and his extraordinary family." The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Sarah B. Houston and Jane L. Westby, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-18-02719-TUC-RCC RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-006_Schlesinger # # # 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 Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Colorado Man Sentenced for Church Arson in Federal Hate Crime Case

body_text: A Colorado man was sentenced today to 39 months in prison for a hate crime charge in connection with a fire that he set to a church in Loveland, Colorado, on Jan. 19, 2023. Darion Ray Sexton, 22, pleaded guilty to a federal hate crime charge on May 5, 2023. “This defendant has now been held accountable for his deliberate attack on the church,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “No one should live in fear because of their religious beliefs. The Justice Department will continue to vigorously prosecute those who seek to destroy houses of worship and interfere with the fundamental right to practice religion freely.” “Places of worship are critical for our communities, and this office stands ready to protect them,” said U.S. Attorney Cole Finegan for the District of Colorado. “Religious freedom means being free to worship without fear. Our office will take every appropriate action to ensure that every Coloradan enjoys this essential freedom.” “This defendant admitted he set out to destroy this church, which was determined to be a federal hate crime,” said Special Agent in Charge Mark D. Michalek of the FBI Denver Field Office. “FBI Denver worked with the Loveland Police Department to bring this man to justice. Anyone who attacks a house of worship will get the full attention of the FBI. In addition to seeking justice for these crimes, the FBI remains committed to providing resources for potential victims, such as the event with faith leaders held in this county the day before the crime occurred.” “Arson is not only destructive and deadly, but also undermines the sense of safety within places of worship,” said Special Agent in Charge Brent Beavers of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “We immediately committed all ATF resources to addressing the impact of this arson by deploying our certified fire investigator, an ATF Task Force Officer with their ATF trained accelerant detection canine and ATF Laboratory services to analyze fire debris and evidence. Early and continued collaboration with our local and federal partners ensured justice once again prevailed.” According to court documents, Sexton pleaded guilty to intentionally setting fire to the church in the evening hours of Jan. 19, 2023. Sexton admitted that he set this fire by throwing two Molotov cocktails at the church — one at the front door and the other at the basement. Sexton further admitted that he was motivated to set this fire due to the religious character of the church and that he intended to destroy the church. The FBI, ATF and the Loveland Police and Fire Departments conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan D. Fields for the District of Colorado and Trial Attorney Maura White of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division prosecuted the case.


title: Moline Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography Charges

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Moline man was sentenced January 18, 2024, to 25 years in federal prison for Producing, Possessing, and being in Receipt of Child Pornography. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Jason Richard Heider, 48, was responsible for producing and receiving child sexual abuse material. Heider pleaded guilty in July of 2022. 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 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 Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . For information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the resources tab.


title: Republic Man Indicted for Illegal Firearm Following Shooting at Private Party

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Republic, Mo., man who was providing security at a private party where four individuals were injured by gunfire was indicted by a federal grand jury today for illegally possessing a firearm. Timothy Johnell Smith, 37, was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint that was filed against Smith on Jan. 3, 2024. The federal indictment alleges that Smith was in possession of a Bear Creek Arsenal rifle between Dec. 31, 2023, and Jan. 1, 2024. According to an affidavit filed in support of the original criminal complaint, deputies with the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department responded to a call for service at a private party at The Barnhouse in Springfield on Jan. 1, 2024. Smith and his wife had been hired to provide security at the New Year’s Eve party. Deputies were arriving at the scene when another call was dispatched for shots fired at the same location. Six people were injured; four victims sustained gunshot wounds and were transported to local hospitals. A witness at the party told deputies that Smith had attempted to break up a fight involving several people, and had fired an AR-style rifle into the ceiling. Witnesses reported they heard four to five additional gunshots. Deputies found the rifle near a storage area on the upper level of the venue. Deputies interviewed Smith, the affidavit says, who told them he carried the AR-style rifle for “intimidation.” Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Smith has prior felony convictions for burglary, receiving stolen property, and theft of a motor vehicle. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Greene County Sheriff’s Department. Project Safe Neighborhoods 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: Drug trafficker who illegally possessed more than 20 guns – twelve purchased by a “straw buyer” -- pleads guilty

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – a 32-year-old Federal Way man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to four federal felonies involving guns and drugs, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. De’ondre Lamontia Phillips, aka Deondre Lamontia McDougle, is half of a pair of defendants involved in a firearms straw purchasing scheme that involved the purchase of 100 firearms in a two-year period. Phillips pleaded guilty today to possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and two counts of illegal possession of firearms. Philips is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ricardo S. Martinez on April 26, 2024. According to records filed in the case, the investigation began in late January 2023, with the assault and attempted robbery of a woman in Rainier Valley. The victim was able to flee in her car. Police found a firearm in her vehicle that had been dropped by one of the assailants. A check of the firearm revealed it had been purchased by 31-year-old Kent resident Dion Jamar Cooper in December 2022. That recovery led the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) to check Cooper’s purchase history. Cooper had purchased 107 firearms since June 2021. On 24 different instances he purchased multiple firearms – sometimes four or more. Of the 107 firearms identified as being purchased in this scheme, 24 of the guns have been recovered and linked to crimes. During March and April of 2023, agents surveilled Cooper as he made arrangements to purchase additional firearms. Agents identified De’ondre Lamontia Phillips as the person who drove Cooper to the gun shops where he purchased the firearms. Phillips is prohibited from purchasing and possessing firearms due to convictions for distribution of heroin (2014) and convictions for illegal firearms possession and two counts of assault (2009). Surveillance of the two revealed Cooper turning the firearms over to Phillips who stored them in his residence. On April 12, 2023, investigators arrested Phillips and searched his apartment, his car, and his storage unit. They found distribution amounts of fentanyl pills and methamphetamine as well as drug packaging materials and scales. In all, Phillips possessed 23 firearms – most of them handguns – and some firearms that were privately manufactured with no serial numbers. Ten of the firearms had been purchased by co-defendant Cooper on the day of the search and arrest. Possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime is punishable by a mandatory minimum five years in prison to run consecutive to any sentence imposed on the other charges. Unlawful possession of firearms is punishable by up to fifteen years in prison. Prosecutors have agreed to recommend no more than eight years in prison. Judge Martinez is not bound by the recommendation and is free to recommend any sentence allowed by law. The case is being investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) and the Seattle Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Greenberg.


title: Burlington County Man Charged With Possessing Explosive Devices

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: TRENTON, N.J. – A Burlington County, New Jersey, man was charged with possessing four destructive devices, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today. Jeremy Giliberti, 52, of Mount Laurel, New Jersey, is charged by complaint with one count of possessing destructive devices. He is scheduled to appear this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Douglas E. Arpert in Trenton federal court. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: On July 26, 2023, Hamilton Township Police Division officers conducted a motor vehicle stop of Giliberti. During a subsequent search of Giliberti’s vehicle, one of the officers found a duffle bag on the front passenger-side floorboard which contained four pipe bombs. Two of the devices were encased in 5-inch steel pipes and two of the devices were encased in cardboard tubing wrapped in duct tape. All four of the devices contained numerous metal pellets, an explosive mixture, and a pyrotechnic fuse. The possession of a destructive device charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller; members of the Hamilton Township Police Division, under the direction of Chief Kenneth R. DeBoskey; members of the New Jersey State Police Bomb Unit, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; and members of the Mercer County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Angelo J. Onofri, with the investigation leading to this arrest. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Tracey Agnew of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Trenton. The charge and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. giliberti.complaint.pdf


title: Forsyth Man Indicted for Springfield Bank Robbery

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Forsyth, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for robbing a Springfield bank. Richard Campbell, 59, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Today’s indictment alleges that Campbell robbed Guaranty Bank, 1905 W. Kearney St., in Springfield, on Jan. 5, 2024. The charge contained in this indictment is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney James J. Kelleher. It was investigated by the Springfield, Mo., Police Department and the FBI.


title: Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission Hold Trilateral Meeting with Competition Enforcers from Mexico and Canada

component: Antitrust Division

body_text: Today, the Justice Department participated in a trilateral meeting with enforcers from Mexico’s Federal Economic Competition Commission (COFECE), Canada’s Competition Bureau and the Federal Trade Commission (FTC). Discussions were held among Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division, Chair Lina M. Khan of the FTC, Canadian Commissioner of Competition Matthew Boswell and President Andrea Marván Saltiel of COFECE. The meeting, which took place in Mexico City, included discussions on competition in the technology and platform sectors and the impact of competition on labor markets, as well as discussions on new enforcement tools and bringing a whole-of-government approach to competition law. “The competition law agencies of Canada, Mexico and the United States share the common goal to preserve and protect fair and lawful competition,” said Assistant Attorney General Kanter. “I am grateful for the opportunity to meet with our fellow enforcers and discuss opportunities to promote competition and enhance enforcement in North America.” “This annual trilateral with our enforcement partners lets us share expertise and learning, strengthening our work to promote fair competition and protect the American public from anticompetitive and monopolistic tactics,” said Chair Khan. Assistant Attorney General Kanter of the Antitrust Division (far right) meets with Chair Lina M. Khan of the FTC, Canadian Commissioner of Competition Matthew Boswell and President Andrea Marván Saltiel of COFECE. The 1995 cooperation agreement between the United States and Canada, the 1999 agreement between the United States and Mexico and the 2001 agreement between Canada and Mexico laid the foundation for these meetings. The agreements commit the agencies to coordinating and cooperating with each other to ensure consistent and effective antitrust enforcement. Tomorrow, Assistant Attorney General Kanter will deliver a keynote speech at an event hosted by COFECE commemorating the release of a special anniversary book reflecting on the development of competition policy in Mexico. The book includes essays from competition experts around the world and is being released in honor of the 10th anniversary of the agency and 30th anniversary of the passage of Mexico’s first competition law.


title: Football ticket scammer sent to prison

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – A 49-year-old California resident has been sentenced for orchestrating a ticket scam across the United States that included a Texas A&M football game, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Derrick Langford pleaded guilty Aug. 24, 2023. U.S. District Judge Charles Eskridge has now ordered Langford to serve 24 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by one year of supervised release. “For years, Langford engaged in a multi-level fraud,” said Hamdani. “In doing so, he victimized identity theft victims, unsuspecting internet buyers and, ultimately, the venues, from football stadiums to music arenas, who bore the monetary loss. But the perceived anonymity of the internet did not protect him. His scheme unraveled thanks to the efforts of the 12 th Man Foundation at Texas A&M University. At the time of his plea, Langford admitted he used email to obtain stolen credit card information from victims across the United States. He used that data and false identities to buy tickets for sporting events, concerts and other entertainment venues nationwide. He then re-sold the tickets on internet-based resale sites like Ticket Liquidator. One such event tied to Langford was the Texas A&M football game against Clemson Sept. 8, 2018. At the time of the plea, Langford admitted he created false buyer accounts and used stolen credit card numbers to buy tickets to that game and then resold the fraudulently purchased tickets on resale sites to unsuspecting buyers. Texas A&M discovered the fraud and invalidated the tickets. However, some tickets had already been sold to unsuspecting buyers which caused the university to incur a 100% loss on the fraudulent tickets. As the scheme continued, Langford received stolen credit card information and personal identifying information of more than 75 victims in one of his email accounts. Langford was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. The FBI conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Texas A&M University Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Quincy Ollison and Belinda Beek prosecuted the case.


title: Tampa Man Sentenced To 15 Years In Prison For Enticing A Filipino Child Into Producing Child Sexual Abuse Material

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has sentenced Joshua Friedbauer (61, Tampa) to 15 years in federal prison for enticement of a minor and receipt of child sex abuse material. Friedbauer is also responsible for an Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act assessment of $3,000 and a Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act assessment of $10,000. Friedbauer had pleaded guilty on July 5, 2023. According to court documents, around June 2021, Friedbauer visited the Philippines and met the impoverished 13-year-old child victim through her mother, with whom Friedbauer shared a romantic relationship. Thereafter, Friedbauer coerced, persuaded, and used the child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing photos of this conduct. In return, Friedbauer gave the child money and other gifts. When the child victim resisted and did not fully cooperate with his requests, Friedbauer continued to pressure and guilted her for more images. “This predator traveled internationally and exploited the impoverished financial status of a mother and her child to create sexually explicit imagery for his perverse conduct,” said Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kristopher Pagitt. “The vile actions of child predators make lifetime victims of their prey and cause irreparable harm. This successful sentencing is a testament to the strength of our global network of law enforcement partnerships, including the Philippine National Police, and our commitment to serve and protect victims of human trafficking and exploitation.” This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Tampa, with substantial assistance from the Philippine National Police. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Erin Claire Favorit. 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: Miami cryptocurrency exchanger pleads guilty to running unlicensed money transmitter business

body_text: MIAMI – The owner of a Miami-based digital currency exchange business pleaded guilty to operating an unlicensed money transmitting business, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1960. Raul Rodriguez, aka raultiovigia, 43, of Miami, Florida, was in the business of converting cash into bitcoin and other digital currency in exchange for a fee. Rodriguez provided these services to the public through an online digital currency exchange platform known as “LocalBitcoins.com.” According to his plea agreement, Rodriguez exchanged at least $5,047,462 in digital currency from 2016 through 2022; during the first two years of that period, he was the highest-volume trader of digital currency on the LocalBitcoins.com platform in the State of Florida. Rodriguez further admitted that his customers included an online narcotics trafficker and a professional money launderer, both of whom were previously prosecuted in the Southern District of Florida. Rodriguez’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for April 2 nd at 11:00 a.m. in Miami. He faces up to five years in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Matthew D. Line of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), Miami Field Office, announced the guilty plea. IRS-CI Miami investigated the case with assistance from FBI, Miami Field Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Miami Field Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Browne is prosecuting it. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Marx Calderon and Emily Stone are handling asset forfeiture. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 23-cr-20474. ###


title: Local gang member imprisoned for trafficking over 900 grams of heroin and various narcotics

body_text: CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 28-year-old Corpus Christi man has been sentenced following his conviction of drug trafficking, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Arturo Bazan pleaded guilty Nov. 14, 2023. U.S. District Judge David S. Morales has now ordered Arturo Bazan to serve 228 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by five years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court viewed evidence from the crime scene and reviewed Bazan’s gang activities on social media. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the seriousness of the crime and its negative impact on the community. In 2023, authorities began investigating a local heroin distributor which ultimately led authorities to Bazan and his associates operating out of a Corpus Christi residence. On Aug. 9, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Bazan’s residence, at which time they discovered over a kilogram of meth, three kilograms of cocaine, over 900 grams of heroin and more than $20,000. They also found other controlled substances such as alprazolam pills, Xanax and marijuana. They also recovered multiple firearms throughout the residence, to include a Ruger 5.7 handgun and an Anderson Arms AM-15 in Bazan’s bedroom. Those two firearms were each loaded with a full magazine. Further investigation revealed Bazan was a local gang member who distributed narcotics on both an individual and large-scale basis. Bazan will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Corpus Christi Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney John Lamont prosecuted the case.


title: Federal Attorney Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Sexually Exploit Numerous Children

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A former Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (FDIC) attorney pleaded guilty today to conspiring to sexually exploit numerous children. According to court documents, between January 2018 and October 2021, Mark Black, 50, of Arlington, Virginia, was a member of two online groups dedicated to exploiting children. The goal of the two groups was to locate prepubescent girls online and convince them to livestream themselves engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Black and his co-conspirators would covertly record this conduct and share the videos with each other. In July 2019, Black induced a prepubescent minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct on a live-streaming application while screen-recording that activity. That same month, Black and a co-conspirator also groomed another prepubescent minor to engage in sexually explicit acts on a photo and video-sharing application. The co-conspirator surreptitiously hacked into that girl’s live-video feed and recorded the sexual acts before sending them to Black. Black was formerly the Arlington Aquatic Club (AAC) board president. Black pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to produce child pornography and one count of coercion and enticement. He is scheduled to be sentenced on April 30 and faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Acting Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Aber for the Eastern District of Virginia, Assistant Director Michael D. Nordwall of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, and Assistant Inspector General for Investigations Shimon Richmond of the FDIC Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG) made the announcement. The FBI and FDIC-OIG investigated the case. Trial Attorneys McKenzie Hightower, Kaylynn Foulon, and James E. Burke IV of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren Halper for the Eastern District of Virginia are prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . Any individuals who believe they or someone they know may have been victimized by Black are encouraged to contact the FBI at 202-278-2000 and ask to speak to the Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.


title: St. Louis County Man Sentenced to 78 Months in Prison for Possessing Child Pornography

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Henry E. Autrey on Tuesday sentenced a St. Louis County, Missouri man who had amassed at least 30,000 images containing child sexual abuse material to 78 months in prison. Daniel Hass, 66, pleaded guilty in August to three counts of possession of child pornography. He admitted using peer-to-peer file sharing programs to download and view child sexual abuse material. In conversations with St. Louis County Police, Hass estimated that he had 20,000 images containing the material and that he had been viewing such materials for about 20 years. Investigators located at least 30,000 images and hundreds of videos containing child pornography, as well as videos Hass had surreptitiously recorded of adult women undressing. The St. Louis County Police Department and the FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kyle Bateman prosecuted the case.