title: Former DuPage County Assistant State’s Attorney Charged  with Communicating Interstate Threat to Two Illinois  State Representatives and Others

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A DuPage County, Illinois, man, Samuel J. Cundari, 30, has been arrested and charged by criminal complaint with transmitting in interstate commerce a threat to injure another person in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 875(c). The complaint alleges that on March 17, 2024, the Illinois State Police were contacted by two Illinois State Representatives about a threat that they had received via the social media company X, formerly known as Twitter. The social media post stated, “Our patience grows short with you. The day we put your kids’ feet first into a woodchipper so we can enjoy their last few screams is coming.” Besides the two state representatives, five other individuals or groups were “tagged” with the post to include the Illinois Attorney General. As a result, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Division began an investigation. The complaint further alleges that on May 15, 2024, the FBI’s National Threat Operations Center received an online tip regarding a post on X that seemed to be in response to an advertisement about the Springfield PrideFest which occurred on May 18, 2024. In the post, it states: “I sure hope NOBODY leaves a pressure cooker filled with bail bearings, glass, and nails, filled with diesel fuel and fertilizer, with the over pressure safety valve disabled, near a natural gas line line [sic]. That would be VERY sad and VERY unfortunate.” The complaint also alleges that law enforcement traced the two social media posts to Samuel Cundari of DuPage County, Illinois who used the internet to communicate the threats. At the time the posts were made, Cundari was an Assistant State’s Attorney in DuPage County. If convicted of communicating an interstate threat, Cundari faces a maximum sentence of imprisonment of no more than five years. The charge also carries up to three years of supervised release and a possible fine of up to $250,000. The investigation was led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Springfield Field Office with assistance by multiple law enforcement agencies including: FBI Chicago and FBI Indianapolis Field Offices, the Illinois Secretary of State Police, the Illinois State Police, the Springfield Police Department, the Pierceton Police Department (Indiana), United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, the DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Office, DuPage County State’s Attorney’s Investigations Unit, and the DuPage County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah E. Seberger. Members of the public are reminded that the charges in a complaint are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.


title: Multi-convicted felon sentenced to prison for committing multiple robberies while on supervised release

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – On May 23, a Miami multi-convicted felon was sentenced to 240 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release for two attempted credit union robberies, one credit union robbery and one bank robbery while on supervised release for a separate case. The sentence comes after the defendant was convicted in a three-day federal jury trial. On Sept. 29, 2023, Keith Bernard Miller, 54, of Miami, entered two credit unions in Miramar and attempted to rob each one but to no avail. Then, Miller drove to a credit union in Boca Raton, presented a note demanding money, and stole over $1,600. Then, on Oct. 10, 2023, Miller drove to a bank in Davie and presented a demand note to the teller. In fear for her life, the teller relinquished over $1,300 to Miller. Later that day, law enforcement officers located Miller’s getaway vehicle and arrested him. Law enforcement officers then found draft demand notes and clothing worn during the robberies. In 2020, Miller was sentenced to 65 months in prison and three years of supervised release after pleading guilty to three counts of credit union robbery. Prior to his 2020 federal case, Miller had been previously convicted of multiple robberies, aggravated stalking with a firearm, burglary with assault and battery and felony eluding, among other offenses. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, announced the sentence imposed by U.S. District Judge Roy K. Altman. FBI Miami investigated the case with assistance from the Miramar Police Department, Boca Police Department and Miami-Dade Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ajay J. Alexander and M. Catherine Koontz prosecuted the case. 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-60199. ###


title: El Sobrante Resident Charged With Fraudulently Obtaining More Than $1.1 Million In Pandemic-Relief Funds In 2020 And 2021

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: OAKLAND – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a Contra Costa County man with wire fraud and other crimes relating to a scheme in which he fraudulently obtained more than $1.1 million in government-backed COVID-19 relief funds, announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey; Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Special Agent in Charge Robert K. Tripp; and Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Inspector General (OIG) Special Agent in Charge Weston King of the Western Region. According to the indictment filed this week, Lane Jenkins, 53, of El Sobrante, California, was president of a company called A & L Investments LLC (A&L), which was founded in 2016, headquartered in El Sobrante, and purported to purchase, renovate, and sell distressed properties. The indictment alleges that, in February 2021 and April 2021, Jenkins applied for and received two Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans totaling more than $1 million on the basis of false and fraudulent representations that A&L had dozens of employees and hundreds of thousands of dollars in monthly payroll expenses. In fact, A&L had zero employees and no monthly payroll. In December 2021, Jenkins applied for and received forgiveness of the first of those two loans, falsely certifying he had used the PPP funds to make payroll for A&L’s nonexistent employees. In fact, Jenkins had used the money for personal expenses and to pay off personal debts. The indictment also states that, in July 2020, Jenkins applied for and received an Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) of nearly $95,000 for a maid and cleaning service he said he operated as a sole proprietor. The application falsely stated that Jenkins had 10 employees and gross revenues of $241,353. In fact, he had no employees and no revenues. Rather than use the EIDL funds he received on approved business expenses, Jenkins used that money to enrich himself. The PPP was administered by the SBA as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, a federal law enacted in March 2020 to provide billions of dollars in emergency financial assistance to millions of Americans suffering from the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The PPP provided forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other qualified business expenses. PPP funds were disbursed by SBA-approved third-party lenders. The EIDL program is also administered by the SBA. It provides low-interest financing to small businesses, renters, and homeowners in regions affected by declared disasters. As relevant here, the CARES Act authorized the SBA to make EIDL loans of up to $2 million to eligible small businesses experiencing substantial financial disruption due to the COVID-19 pandemic. EIDL funds are disbursed directly by the SBA. The Indictment charges three counts of wire fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1343, and one count of submitting false writings to a government agency, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1001(a)(3). An indictment merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, Jenkins faces a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years in prison on each of the three counts of wire fraud and a maximum statutory sentence of 5 years in prison on the fourth count, which charges him with submitting false writings to a government agency. However, any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553. Jenkins has not yet appeared in court to face the charges against him. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth Chambers is prosecuting the case. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI and SBA-OIG. 2024-05-23_-_1_indictment_4-24-cr-00283-amo_v.1.pdf


title: Lexington Man Sentenced for Armed Drug Trafficking

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LEXINGTON, Ky. – A Lexington man, Malachi Evans, 22, was sentenced on Friday, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny C. Reeves, to 180 months in prison, following his convictions for two counts of distribution of 10 grams or more of a fentanyl analogue, two counts of distribution of five grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a substance containing fentanyl analogue, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. According to his plea agreement, in the fall of 2021, law enforcement received information that Evans was selling large quantities of heroin and fentanyl. On three occasions in October 2021, law enforcement arranged controlled purchases with a confidential source, to purchase methamphetamine and heroin/fentanyl from Evans. During these three transactions, Evans provided a total of 141 grams of a fentanyl analogue and approximately two ounces of methamphetamine. During a planned fourth transaction, Evans was arrested by law enforcement. A search of Evans’s vehicle then uncovered marijuana, $2,400 in cash, 125.3 grams of heroin/fentanyl, 26.65 grams of methamphetamine, and a handgun. Evans admitted to possessing the drugs with the intent to distribute them and that he possessed the firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking activities. Under federal law, Evans must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for 10 years. Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky; Erek Davodowich, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Louisville Field Division; Commander Kalan Perdue, Gateway High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force; Chief James Hall, Winchester Police Department, jointly announced the sentence. The investigation was conducted by the DEA, Gateway AHITDA Task Force, and Winchester Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cynthia Rieker prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. — END —


title: Former CIA Officer Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Espionage

body_text: Alexander Yuk Ching Ma, 71, of Honolulu, a former Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) officer, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to gather and deliver national defense information to the People’s Republic of China (PRC). According to court documents, Ma and a blood relative of his (identified as co-conspirator #1 or CC #1) were naturalized U.S. citizens who were born in Hong Kong and Shanghai, respectively. Both Ma and CC #1 worked for the CIA — CC #1 from 1967 until 1983, Ma from 1982 until 1989. As CIA officers, both men held top secret security clearances that granted them access to sensitive and classified CIA information, and signed non-disclosure agreements that required them to maintain the secrecy of that information. As Ma admitted in the plea agreement, in March 2001, when he no longer worked for the CIA, at the request of intelligence officers employed by the PRC’s Shanghai State Security Bureau (SSSB), Ma convinced CC #1 to meet with SSSB intelligence officers in a Hong Kong hotel room. Over the course of three days, Ma and CC #1 provided the SSSB with a large volume of classified U.S. national defense information. At the conclusion of the third day, the SSSB intelligence officers provided CC #1 with $50,000 in cash, which Ma counted. Ma and CC #1 also agreed at that time to continue to assist the SSSB. As detailed in the plea agreement, in March 2003, while living in Hawaii, Ma applied for a job as a contract linguist in the FBI Honolulu Field Office. The FBI, aware of Ma’s ties to PRC intelligence, hired Ma, as part of an investigative plan, to work at an off-site location where his activities could be monitored and his contacts with the PRC investigated. Ma worked for the FBI from August 2004 until October 2012. Ma further admitted that in February 2006, during this monitored employment by the FBI in Honolulu, Ma convinced CC #1 to provide the identities of at least two individuals depicted in photographs that were provided to Ma by SSSB intelligence officers. The individuals’ identities were and remain classified U.S. national defense information. Ma confessed that he knew that this information, and the information communicated in March 2001, would be used to injure the United States or to benefit the PRC, and he deliberately engaged in the criminal conspiracy with CC #1 and the SSSB anyway. Under the terms of the parties’ plea agreement, Ma must cooperate with the United States, including by submitting to debriefings by U.S. government agencies. The plea agreement, if accepted by the Court, calls for an agreed-upon sentence of 10 years in prison. Sentencing is set for Sept. 11. Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, U.S. Attorney Clare E. Connors for the District of Hawaii, Assistant Director for Counterintelligence Kevin Vorndran of the FBI, and Special Agent in Charge Steven Merrill of the FBI Honolulu Field Office made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Derrick K. Watson conducted the change of the plea hearing. The FBI Honolulu and Los Angeles Field Offices investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ken Sorenson and Craig Nolan for the District of Hawaii, and Trial Attorneys Scott Claffee and Leslie Esbrook of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.


title: Two arrested and charged federally in connection with cross border human smuggling scheme

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – Two men connected to a northern border people smuggling scheme made their initial appearances in U.S. District Court in Seattle today, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Jesus Ortiz-Plata, 45, of Independence, Oregon, and Juan Pablo Cuellar Medina, 35, of Everett, Washington were arrested yesterday with three non-citizens who had been smuggled into the United States from Canada. The arrests are the result of a lengthy investigation by Homeland Security Investigation’s Border Security Enforcement Team (BEST). “These defendants have allegedly been linked to an extremely dangerous smuggling scheme where people are loaded into freight cars on trains traveling from Canada into the U.S.,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “Being locked in a freight train car is dangerous – there is no control over the heat, cold, or ventilation, and people can be injured or killed by shifting freight. In one dangerous instance last August, some 29 people were rescued from a boxcar filled with plastic pellets.” Since late 2022, as Border Patrol and investigators encountered non-citizens who had illegally attempted to cross the border, a phone number later linked to Ortiz-Plata kept coming up as the number the non-citizens were supposed to contact. Ortiz-Plata was identified, and law enforcement got court permission to locate the signal from his cell phone. On Thursday, Ortiz-Plata traveled from his home in Oregon and was followed from Seattle to an apartment in Everett. He left the apartment with three men – all non-citizens. All four were taken into custody. Two had crossed the border in a freight train car and one claimed he had walked across the border and been picked up on the U.S. side. Medina was the resident of the apartment where the men had been staying. Medina was arrested and was identified by one non-citizens as the person who had picked him up after they crossed into the U.S. Conspiracy to commit illegal transportation of a non-citizen for private financial gain is punishable by up to ten years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Border Security Enforcement Team, U.S. Border Patrol, and Border Patrol Air and Marine Group. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Celia Lee.


title: Court Sentences Prior Felon For Possessing Firearm, Firing At Customer In Liquor Store Parking Lot

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Julius Robinson, Jr., 27, of Kalamazoo, was sentenced to 97 months and three years’ supervised release for being a felon in possession of a firearm. In sentencing Robinson, U.S. District Court Judge Paul L. Maloney noted, “It is a miracle no one was hurt…Mr. Robinson represents a very, very significant risk to the law abiding public and the community needs to be protected for a long time.” “Julius Robinson is a menace to his community and Kalamazoo is a safer place because of today’s lengthy sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “In communities that experience gun violence, only a few individuals are responsible for driving that violence. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan is laser-focused on using our resources – and the lengthy federal sentences we often bring to the table – to incapacitate active shooters like Robinson.” He continued: “I’m thankful no one was harmed and grateful to the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office, Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, and the FBI who tracked Robinson down and brought him to justice.” While buying drinks from the Bronco Liquor Mart at 5036 W KL Avenue in Kalamazoo, Robinson got into an argument with another customer who was annoyed at the length of time Robinson was taking to complete his transaction at the check-out counter. Still inside the store, Robinson said to the other customer: “I’ll kill you in here, bro.” Robinson’s threat was not idle: he illegally possessed a .40 caliber Glock pistol with an extended magazine capable of housing 30 bullets. Robinson then followed the other customer out of the store into the parking lot. As the other customer walked away, got into his car, and drove away, Robinson fired four shots at the man, missing his target. The other customer did not pose a threat in any way prior to Robinson firing his gun. Members of the FBI’s Western Michigan Violent Crime Task Force identified Robinson through diligent forensic analysis of the evidence at the scene and review of the security footage at the store. Their investigation led to a search of Robinson’s home where they recovered the gun, still loaded, in Robinson’s bedroom. While in jail for the shooting and possessing the firearm, Robinson phoned his girlfriend, who was present at the scene of the crime and drove the car as Robinson fled the liquor store. Robinson repeatedly directed his girlfriend to lie so he would escape justice for his crime. Furthermore, ballistics evidence from the gun indicated that Robinson fired the gun two weeks earlier in the same liquor store parking lot. This case is Robinson’s fourth firearm-related conviction. The court increased Robinson’s sentence for being a felon in possession of a firearm on two grounds: his assault with intent to commit murder and his attempt to obstruct justice by instructing his girlfriend to lie on his behalf. “Mr. Robinson intended to cause harm and must be held accountable for placing everyone present that day in danger,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan . “Today's sentencing would not have been possible without the strong partnerships between our office, the Kalamazoo County Sheriff's Office, Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, and the U.S. Attorney's Office. We are unwavering in our commitment to safeguarding our communities by eliminating violent offenders who believe they can terrorize our communities with illegally possessed firearms.” “The Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office works proudly with local, state, and federal partners, in continued efforts to reduce gun violence in Kalamazoo County and surrounding communities,” said Kalamazoo County Sheriff Richard Fuller . “The effort in this case by investigators, the Kalamazoo County Prosecutor’s Office, and U.S. Attorney’s Office shows the commitment at every level to make Kalamazoo a safer community for all.” Gun violence is an acute problem across the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , the U.S. firearm homicide rate in 2021 was the highest documented since 1993. While the numbers have slightly declined since 2021, they remain high. Resources and information on the safe storage of firearms can be found by reviewing the U.S. Department of Justice Safe Storage of Firearms guide , Centers for Disease Control and Prevention fact sheet , and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives pamphlet . Anyone who possesses a gun must follow all local, state, and federal laws. This case was investigated by the Kalamazoo County Sheriff’s Office, Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety, and FBI. It is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. ###


title: Fort Lauderdale man indicted for kidnapping in connection with wife’s disappearance

body_text: MIAMI – On May 15, a grand jury returned an indictment charging David Knezevich, a/k/a “David Knezevic,” a/k/a “Dusan Knezevic,” with one count of kidnapping in connection with his wife’s disappearance. According to court documents, Knezevich traveled out of Miami International Airport to kidnap his wife, who was residing in Spain. Upon traveling out of Miami, Knezevich rented a car in Serbia shortly before his wife’s disappearance and drove to Spain. On the last day Knezevich’s wife was seen alive, Knezevich was captured on video surveillance in Spain, purchasing spray paint and duct tape. The same evening, an individual wearing a face covering and a motorcycle helmet, believed to be Knezevich, was captured on video spray painting the surveillance camera at his wife’s apartment building in Madrid. Knezevich’s wife has not been heard from since. Knezevich was arrested pursuant to a criminal complaint on May 4, 2024, after flying into Miami International Airport from Serbia. On May 10, 2024, Chief Magistrate Judge Edwin G. Torres ordered Knezevich detained pending trial. If convicted, Knezevich faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement. The case was investigated by the FBI and Spanish law enforcement authorities. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) provided assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Lacee Elizabeth Monk of the Special Prosecutions Section is prosecuting it. Anyone with related information should contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324). An indictment contains mere allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law. You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.usdoj.gov/usao/fls . 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 24-cr-20201. ###


title: Manager of Mexico-Based Drug Trafficking Organization Sentenced for International Methamphetamine Trafficking and Money Laundering

body_text: WASHINGTON – A manager of a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization was sentenced today to 21 years and 10 months in prison and ordered to forfeit $1,339,500 for his role in an international drug trafficking conspiracy. According to court documents, beginning around May 2013 and continuing to at least December 2016, Gabriel Cerda-Guillen, 49, of Mexico, was a manager for a Mexico-based drug trafficking organization that served as a source of methamphetamine and marijuana supply for an Omaha, Nebraska-based distribution network. Specifically, from 2013 and through 2014, Cerda-Guillen imported marijuana and methamphetamine from Mexico into the United States and subsequently distributed those controlled substances to cities across the United States, including Omaha, Nebraska, and the surrounding areas. During and in furtherance of the conspiracy, Cerda-Guillen participated in the shipment of an estimated 22 to 44 kilograms of methamphetamine and nearly one ton of marijuana. Cerda-Guillen imported drugs to Nebraska from Mexico with the expectation that members of local distribution networks would further distribute the drugs and remit the drug proceeds back to him after receiving payment. Cerda-Guillen provided drugs on credit or before payment was rendered, received reporting on the status of sales, and received drug proceeds through bulk cash transports or through established money laundering networks. Cerda-Guillen pleaded guilty in December 2023 to a two-count indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and 100 kilograms or more of marijuana and conspiracy to conduct and attempt to conduct financial transactions, affecting interstate and foreign commerce, which involved proceeds of a specified unlawful activity. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Susan T. Lehr for the District of Nebraska; Assistant Director Michael Nordwall of the FBI's Criminal Investigative Division; Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel of the FBI Omaha Division; and Special Agent in Charge Thomas F. Murdock of IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) St. Louis Field Office made the announcement. This investigation is supported by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). The FBI Omaha Field Office and IRS-CI St. Louis Field Office investigated the case. Trial Attorneys Robert Sainvil and Douglas Meisel of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Molsen for District of Nebraska prosecuted the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and Office of Enforcement Operations provided significant assistance.


title: Liberty Lake Man Sentenced to Federal Prison and Ordered to Pay $60,000 in Victim Restitution for Child Pornography Crime

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington - Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced today that Rick Lynn Johnson, age 69, of Liberty Lake, Washington, was sentenced after pleading guilty to Receipt of Child Pornography. United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice imposed a sentence of 60 months imprisonment to be followed by 5 years of supervised release. Judge Rice also ordered Johnson to pay $60,000 in restitution to seven of his victims, as well as $10,000 in special assessments under the Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act and the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act. According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, between May 30, 2021, and June 16, 2022, federal law enforcement successfully downloaded numerous child pornography files from Johnson. In November 2022, federal agents executed a search warrant at Johnson’s home in Liberty Lake and seized a phone, computers, and hard drives. Forensic analysis of these devices revealed approximately 2,506 images and approximately 97 videos of child pornography. The images and videos included depictions of minors younger than 12 years old. Johnson later admitted to using his phone and computer to download and share child pornography with others online during the last year. “All children should be safe from sexual predators. Protecting children from harm, especially online exploitation, remains a priority of my office and is critical to building a safe and strong Eastern Washington community, stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “I am grateful for the excellent work by Homeland Security Investigations and AUSA Ann Wick in securing justice for these victims. While nothing can undo the harm these victims endured, the restitution order provides a mechanism to provide these victims the support they rightfully deserve.” “Child pornography, or Child Sexual Assault Material (CSAM) perpetuates the exploitation and abuse of children, inflicting lifelong trauma that HSI along with our investigative partners are combating every single day,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “Any image or video that depicts the exploitation of a child acts like a digital scar and encourages an economy of abuse that can only be deflated by protecting our children from child predators, while ensuring those who have been harmed receive justice.” The Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018 (AVAA) , enacted on December 7, 2018, created new penalties and made a number of changes to existing child pornography laws, specifically providing that restitution must be ordered for all child pornography trafficking offenses in an amount of no less than $3,000 per victim. The AVAA also established a new reserve fund that will be funded by assessments imposed under the Act, and victims of child pornography may be entitled to a one-time payment from the fund if they have not otherwise received restitution covering their losses. The Justice for Victims of Trafficking Act (JVTA) created a mandatory $5,000 special assessment that applies to “nonindigent” defendants for each count of conviction of certain offenses, including child pornography offenses. The assessment is contributed to the “Domestic Trafficking Victims’ Fund,” which is used to support victims of trafficking. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ann Wick.


title: Mansfield Tax Preparer Convicted of 33 Counts of Tax Fraud After Bench Trial

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: A would-be lawyer who falsely inflated dozens of client tax returns was convicted Friday of 33 counts of tax fraud, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton. John Anthony Castro, 40, owner of the virtual tax preparation business Castro & Company, was indicted in January. Following a five-day bench trial before Senior U.S. District Judge Terry R Means, he was convicted on all 33 counts of assisting in the preparation of a fraudulent return and was immediately taken into custody. “While most tax preparers are honest and provide honest tax services to their clients, some like Mr. Castro victimize their clients all in the name of greed,” stated Jenifer L. Piovesan, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Newark Field Office. “Mr. Castro is now a convicted felon facing a lengthy prison sentence.” According to evidence presented in court, Mr. Castro – who had graduated law school but repeatedly failed the bar exam – held himself out as an “international tax expert” and “federal practitioner.” (He also falsely claimed to be a graduate of West Point.) He was successful at marketing to clients around the world, claiming to be an expert on certain tax issues related to Australian ex-pats, among other things. Between 2017 and 2019, he filed more than 1,900 tax returns on behalf of individuals from all over the world. As part of his pitch, Mr. Castro promised his clients a significantly higher refund than they would receive from other preparers, claiming he knew how to identify and claim deductions that others did not. He added there was no risk, as he would simply split the additional refund amount with them to account for his fee. He would not share the tax return with clients before filing, but would instead simply inform them of the amount of the anticipated refund. On many occasions, he filed tax returns on behalf of clients without their permission or knowledge. In other instances, he claimed deductions that had no basis in fact. For example, for one client, who made approximately $103,000 in income, Mr. Castro claimed over $90,000 in deductions related to unreimbursed employee expenses. Mr. Castro claimed deductions based on extreme and unsupported legal theories, including deductions such as (1) those for any expense related to preventing an illness qualified as an “impairment related work expense,” (2) those for expenses related to commuting to and from work, (3) the full value of one’s mortgage and utilities as long as the taxpayer had some type of Schedule C business to claim, (4) those related to dry-cleaning for work clothes, and (5) the full value of one’s cell phone bill even when their employer provided them with a work phone. For example, with respect to one client, Mr. Castro deducted over $26,000 in expenses that he claimed related to a nascent cupcake business that had generated only $250 in revenue. According to trial testimony, in February 2018, an undercover IRS – CI agent contacted Mr. Castro for assistance. The agent asked to meet with Mr. Castro in person, but Mr. Castro’s office told him that in-person meetings required a $5,000 retainer. They spoke via email instead. On February 13, 2018, the undercover agent submitted a W2 and a Form 1098-T showing wages of $142,217. About two weeks later, one of Mr. Castro’s employees called the agent to discuss deductions, noting that Mr. Castro would make any decisions regarding what items would be included on the tax filing. The agent denied having any unreimbursed employee expenses, charitable contributions, or other items that could lead to deductions. On March 12, 2018, Mr. Castro sent the undercover agent his tax analysis. He said that if the agent used another preparer, he would receive a refund of $373, but that if he used Mr. Castro, he would receive a refund of $6,007. Mr. Castro would take half, netting him $3,008. The analysis said the return would include $29,339 in deductions but did not specify which deductions would be used. Two days later, Mr. Castro filed the agent’s return, which claimed $29,339 in fraudulent deductions, including $2,400 in employee expenses, and 28,600 in other expenses that the undercover agent had never discussed with Mr. Castro or his employees. According to evidence presented at trial, Mr. Castro engaged in a similar pattern with his other clients. When the victim-taxpayers learned what Mr. Castro had done, many of them demanded copies of their tax returns. Mr. Castro refused to engage in conversation and even delayed providing returns for months at a time. Mr. Castro often acted in a highly vindictive manner when questioned or challenged by clients or others, often berating individuals in emails, threatening legal actions, or by filing amended tax returns, without clients’ permission or knowledge, that removed all deductions, causing the taxpayer-victim to then owe the IRS tens of thousands of dollars. During the trial, Mr. Castro took the stand in his own defense, and upon cross-examination, admitted that his positions were extreme, outlandish, and not supported by the law. He also admitted to a bevy of prior falsifications and vindictive actions. Many of the victim-taxpayers have since been audited and/or filed amended returns, causing them significant financial hardship. Mr. Castro now faces up to 99 years in federal prison, three years per count. IRS Criminal Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys P.J. Meitl and Nancy Larson are prosecuting the case.


title: USPS Mail Carrier Arrested For Targeting Victims On Mail Route In Fraud And Identity Theft Scheme

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Matthew Modafferi, the Special Agent in Charge of the Northeast Area Field Office of the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General (“USPS-OIG”), announced today that TAMEKA BABULAL, a/k/a “Tameka Williams,” a/k/a “Sharniece Williams,” a/k/a “Meek Williams,” a United States Postal Service (“USPS”) mail carrier in Mount Vernon, New York, was arrested for stealing credit cards, checks, and identities from the mail in order to carry out a scheme and conspiracy to fraudulently steal money from individuals and financial institutions. TAMEKA BABULAL, along with her husband JOEL BABULAL, a/k/a “Joel Nical Babulal,” were arrested this morning in Hempstead, New York, this morning and appeared this afternoon before U.S. Magistrate Judge Judith C. McCarthy. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “The charges against the defendants reflect this Office’s continued commitment to working with our law enforcement partners to protect the U.S. mail system. As alleged, Tameka Babulal abused her position as a mail carrier, targeted victims on her mail route, and stole their identities to carry out an extensive and calculated scheme to line her and her co-conspirators’ pockets. When those entrusted to deliver mail abuse their position to corrupt our mail system from within, this Office will hold them responsible for their conduct.” USPS-OIG Special Agent in Charge Matthew Modafferi said: “U.S. Postal Service employees who betray the American Public’s trust by using their position for personal gain will be thoroughly investigated by the Special Agents of the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General. The dedicated work of Postal Service employees should never be overshadowed by those who compromise their integrity. Our agency values all of our relationships in the law enforcement community, and we would like to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office Southern District of New York for their continued support.” As alleged in the Complaint: [1] TAMEKA BABULAL is a mail carrier who delivers mail to and from residents and businesses with mail going through the USPS Processing and Distribution Center in Mount Vernon, New York. She, however, did not perform the role entrusted to her and, instead, used her position to steal mail in furtherance of a fraud and identity theft scheme aimed at illicitly benefitting herself and her co-conspirators, including JOEL BABULAL. TAMEKA BABULAL’s alleged actions include stealing checks mailed from victims, stealing credit cards mailed to victims and then attempting to use those cards for personal gain, depositing altered checks that were stolen from victims throughout the U.S. into personal financial accounts, and coordinating with co-conspirators to obtain the personal identifying information of victims she targeted on her mail route so that she and her co-conspirators could open fraudulent accounts in the victims’ names. As detailed in the Complaint, the evidence obtained during the course of law enforcement’s investigation includes photographs from TAMEKA BABULAL’s cloud storage account connected to her phone, emails and telephone calls she made to financial institutions, fraudulent credit card applications, and messages between her and her co-conspirators in furtherance of their fraud scheme and conspiracy. JOEL BABULAL is alleged to have participated in the conspiracy. When law enforcement conducted a search of TAMEKA BABULAL and JOEL BABULAL’s residence this morning, officers recovered, among other things, dozens of credit cards and checks in other people’s names, including “washed” checks; several bundles of undelivered mail, including from financial institutions, destined for addresses on TAMEKA BABULAL’s mail route in Mount Vernon, New York; several social security cards and tax documents in other people’s names; and 17 phones, including phones alleged to have been used in the fraud scheme and conspiracy. As a result of these allegations, TAMEKA BABULAL’s employment with USPS will be suspended indefinitely pending resolution of these charges. * * * TAMEKA BABULAL, 36, of Hempstead, New York, is charged with one count of theft of mail by a postal worker, which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison; one count each of bank fraud and conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison; and one count of aggravated identity theft, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of two years in prison. JOEL BABULAL, 36, of Hempstead, New York, is charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years in prison. The mandatory minimum and maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Northeast Area Field Office of the USPS-OIG. Mr. Williams also thanked the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for its continued involvement in this investigation. This case is being handled by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Reyhan Watson is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: Operators Of Nationwide Sports And Pokémon Trading Card Fraud Arrested

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and James Smith, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the unsealing of an Indictment charging ANTHONY CURCIO, a/k/a “Brendan Wooley,” and IOSIF BONDARCHUK, a/k/a “Joe Bondarchuk,” with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and wire fraud. The charges arise from the defendants’ fraudulent scheme to defraud buyers and marketplaces to purchase sports and Pokémon trading cards at false and inflated prices by misrepresenting that low-to-mid grade cards had received high-grade ratings from a reputable card authentication company (“Company-1”), thereby causing victims to pay more money for the cards than they otherwise would have. CURCIO and BONDARCHUK were arrested this morning and are expected to be presented today before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the Western District of Washington. This case is assigned to U.S. District Judge Ronnie Abrams. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Anthony Curcio and Iosif Bondarchuk carried out a brazen, nationwide fraud scheme involving valuable sports and Pokémon trading cards to deceive buyers and marketplaces, ultimately amassing over $2 million in fraudulent and attempted sales. Curcio and Bondarchuk allegedly sold and tried to sell at inflated prices cards of various professional athletes, including, among others, Michael Jordan, Tom Brady, Nolan Ryan, Larry Bird, Julius Erving, and Magic Johnson, as well as various valuable Pokémon cards. Thanks to our law enforcement partners, the dedicated prosecutors of this Office, and the many victims who came forward, this alleged fraud has had its last dance. Our message today is clear: no matter what product you’re selling, if you try to deceive the public to make money, you will be brought to justice.” FBI Assistant Director in Charge James Smith said: “For over two years, Anthony Curcio and Joe Bondarchuk allegedly manipulated common-level trading cards to fraudulently inflate the retail price from its true market value by assigning false validity grades, resulting in more than $2 million in victim losses. This alleged scheme not only damages the reputation of a respectable authentication company, but the defendants’ alleged actions also betray the trust and wallets of avid collectors. The FBI will continue to investigate all fraudulent behavior, especially those who seek to exploit the good faith of companies and consumers.” According to the allegations in the Indictment: [1] From at least 2022 to May 2024, CURCIO and BONDARCHUK sold and attempted to sell fraudulent sports and Pokémon trading cards to victims across the country. In total, CURCIO and BONDARCHUK attempted to deprive victims of over $2 million through their sales and attempted sales by misrepresenting the grade of numerous trading cards. Sports and Pokémon trading cards containing the images of professional athletes and Pokémon can have considerable resale value depending on, among other things, their condition and authenticity. Company-1 is a prominent card authenticator and grader. For a fee, it verifies a card’s authenticity, assesses its condition, and assigns it a numerical grade from one to 10, with one being the lowest grade and 10 being the highest grade. The grade assigned is reflective of the card’s comparative market value. After grading a card, Company-1 seals the card in a distinctive, tamper-resistant plastic case that encloses the card to preserve its condition and indicates its grade on an affixed label. The card grade assigned by Company-1 significantly impacts the market value of the card. As an example, among the cards that CURCIO and BONDARCHUK sold in connection with the scheme was a misrepresented 1986 Fleer Michael Jordan #57 rookie card (the “1986 MJ Card”). The 1986 MJ Card graded as an 8 has an estimated market value of between $6,000 and $7,000. But this same card, when graded as a 10 by Company-1, has had an estimated market value of between approximately $185,000 and $203,000. In short, representations about Company-1’s grade of the card go directly to the value of the card itself and the price at which the card can be bought and sold. In May 2022, CURCIO advertised one version of the 1986 MJ Card on an online marketplace based in Manhattan (the “Manhattan Marketplace”) for sale for the amount of $171,700, as pictured below: As is depicted above, CURCIO advertised the 1986 MJ Card as having a purported grade of 10 assigned by Company-1. In truth and in fact, CURCIO knew that Company-1 had not assigned this grade to the card. To further make it appear that the 1986 MJ Card had received a rating of 10 from Company-1, CURCIO caused a purported Company-1 label to be included in the plastic case, along with a fraudulent bar code and certification number. Through the Manhattan Marketplace, CURCIO and BONDARCHUK sold various cards at inflated prices by falsely claiming the cards had been assigned higher ratings by Company-1 than was true. CURCIO and BONDARCHUK also sold and attempted to sell fraudulent cards at in-person card shops, auctions, and card shows. CURCIO further sold and attempted to sell fraudulent cards through other online platforms using third-party sellers. When victims demanded refunds and confronted CURCIO and BONDARCHUK, including by showing them confirmations from Company-1 that they had misrepresented the grade of the cards they were selling, CURCIO and BONDARCHUK feigned ignorance and often refunded the victims. Yet, after being put on notice that the cards’ grades and labels were fraudulent, CURCIO and BONDARCHUK repeatedly attempted to, and did, sell these very same cards to subsequent victims, again with fraudulent labels showing an inflated grade from Company-1. Among the fraudulent cards that CURCIO, BONDARCHUK, and others sold and attempted to sell are a 1999 Pokémon Venusaur card and a 1999 Pokémon Charizard card, pictured below. In July 2023, as part of a law enforcement undercover purchase of the above fraudulently misrepresented 1999 Pokémon Venusaur card for $10,500—a card which BONDARCHUK had previously attempted to sell on an online marketplace—CURCIO mailed the card to the undercover law enforcement purchaser in Manhattan after the undercover purchaser wired the money to a CURCIO-controlled bank account. CURCIO and BONDARCHUK repeatedly used fake names and identities in order to conceal their involvement in the fraudulent scheme. For example: after a victim complained to BONDARCHUK about his sales of fraudulent cards, including a Tom Brady rookie card, a John Elway rookie card, and various Michael Jordan cards, BONDARCHUK gave the victim CURCIO’s phone number but falsely told the victim that the phone number belonged to another individual who, in reality, was a leader of the Hells Angels motorcycle ring. After another victim complained to BONDARCHUK about his sales of fraudulent cards, including a 1968 Topps Nolan Ryan/Jerry Koosman rookie card, BONDARCHUK gave the victim CURCIO’s phone number but this time falsely told the victim that the phone number belonged to someone named, “John Steel.” Last month, in April 2024, at a card show in New Jersey, CURCIO gave a business card to a potential victim buyer, falsely claiming to be “Brendan Wooley” and listing, among other identifiers, a phone number and LinkedIn page purportedly belonging to “Brendan Wooley.” In truth and in fact, CURCIO—and not “Brendan Wooley”—created and operated the LinkedIn page and controlled the phone number. In furtherance of the fraud, CURCIO ordered from an online marketplace various items needed to create forged card cases and labels. The items included various card grading cases, thermal transfer barcode labels, a magnifier loupe optical glass, a handheld inkjet printer, a lock-cutting kit, an electric grinding pen, an abrasive buffer and polishing wheel, an abrasive and bristle brushes, and drill bits designed for engraving. * * * CURCIO, 43, of Redmond, Washington, and BONDARCHUK, 37, of Lake Stevens, Washington, are each charged with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of wire fraud, each of which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. Mr. Williams praised the investigative work of the FBI. This case is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys David R. Felton and Kingdar Prussien are in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Indictment are merely accusations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Indictment and the description of the Indictment constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah Commends the Release of Framework for Prosecutors to Strengthen National Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: Salt Lake City, Utah – U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins of the District of Utah commends the announcement of the Department of Justice’s new resource for prosecutors, “Framework for Prosecutors to Strengthen Our National Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence Involving Adult Victims.” The announcement was made Monday in Dallas, TX at the Conference on Crimes Against Women by Rosemarie Hidalgo, Director of the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW). The guide, written by prosecutors for prosecutors, sets out five principles that, if implemented, will lead to better outcomes for victims, safer communities, and greater accountability for perpetrators of sexual assault and domestic violence. “The framework announced today reaffirms our commitment to expanding access to justice for all survivors, who deserve respect and the right to be heard,” said the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) Director Rosie Hidalgo. “Enhancing the prosecution response to sexual assault and domestic violence in a trauma-informed manner is a key piece in ending gender-based violence, as part of a broader coordinated community response that includes services and support for survivors, and can have a real, immediate impact on the safety of survivors and entire communities.” Declinations of meritorious allegations may result from misconceptions about how crimes involving sexual assault and domestic violence are committed and reported, how victims give their accounts, and the evidence required to prove their accounts. This guide equips prosecutors to build provable cases by: (1) relying on the evidentiary value of the victim’s account to frame the investigation; (2) meeting with victims and working with investigators and victim specialists to do so; (3) using the law and evidentiary rules effectively; (4) being thoughtful about what justice and accountability look like; and (5) sustaining a productive, healthy, and committed workforce by redefining success– all of which are rooted in a prosecutor’s primary obligation to seek the truth and uphold the U.S. Constitution and the rule of law. More than 120 state, Tribal, military, and federal prosecutors, as well as advocates, academics, and investigators from an array of jurisdictions were consulted in developing this guide. This guide is designed to encourage prosecutors with all levels of experience to implement its principles when evaluating, investigating, and prosecuting allegations involving sexual assault and domestic violence. In conjunction with this guide, OVW launched a new webpage with resources designed to assist prosecutors in implementing the guide and its principles. This guide further serves as a complement to the Justice Department’s 2022 updated guidance on Improving Law Enforcement Response to Sexual Assault and Domestic Violence by Identifying and Preventing Gender Bias . OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through the implementation of the Violence Against Women Act and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities across the country that are developing programs, policies, and practices aimed at ending domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW funds national training and technical assistance and undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw .


title: Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission Seek Information on Serial Acquisitions, Roll-Up Strategies Across U.S. Economy

component: Antitrust Division

body_text: The Justice Department and Federal Trade Commission (FTC) jointly launched a public inquiry to identify serial acquisitions and roll-up strategies throughout the U.S. economy that have led to consolidation and harmed competition. Serial acquisitions and roll-ups are a form of corporate consolidation where a company becomes larger — and potentially dominant — by buying several smaller firms in the same or related sectors or industries. In a joint Request for Information (RFI), the agencies are seeking information from across the public, including consumers, workers, businesses, advocacy organizations, professional and trade associations, local, state and federal elected officials, academics and others to understand how these strategies can stifle competition. Corporate actors, including private equity firms, engage in these types of acquisitions across a wide array of markets and industries. These transactions often fall below minimum filing thresholds for mergers and therefore are not reported to the federal antitrust agencies, allowing the acquiring companies to amass significant control over key products, services or labor markets without government scrutiny. These serial acquisitions can reduce competition across an entire industry or business sector, which harms consumers, workers and innovation. “When companies use serial acquisitions and other roll-up strategies to consolidate industries while evading antitrust scrutiny, they deprive the American people of the benefits of competition,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Public input about where these acquisitions have occurred and how they have impacted competition will help us identify and pursue harmful conduct.” “Firms can use serial acquisitions to roll up markets, consolidate power and undermine fair competition, all while jacking up prices and degrading quality,” said Chair Lina M. Khan of the FTC. “As the FTC scrutinizes these stealth consolidation schemes, we invite the public to submit information about where serial acquisitions have occurred and their effects.” The agencies seek information from the public on serial acquisitions in all sectors and industries in the U.S. economy, including but not limited to housing, defense, cybersecurity, distribution businesses, agriculture, construction, aftermarket/repair and professional services markets. Comments submitted in response to this RFI will inform the agencies’ enforcement priorities and future actions. This RFI complements a parallel government inquiry that seeks to understand how certain health care market transactions by private equity firms and other companies may increase consolidation and generate profits while threatening patients’ health, workers’ safety, quality of care and affordable health care for patients and taxpayers. The Justice Department and FTC’s latest RFI builds on the agencies’ efforts to ensure federal antitrust enforcement tools keep pace with changes in how companies do business. The agencies have proposed amending the premerger notification forms to require merging companies to each disclose more information about their prior acquisition history. In addition, the department and FTC’s 2023 Merger Guidelines recognize that serial acquisitions may violate the antitrust laws. The public will have 60 days to submit comments at Regulations.gov , no later than July 22. Once submitted, comments will be posted to Regulations.gov.


title: Justice Department Sues Live Nation-Ticketmaster for Monopolizing Markets Across the Live Concert Industry

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: The Justice Department, along with 30 state and district attorneys general, filed a civil antitrust lawsuit against Live Nation Entertainment Inc. and its wholly-owned subsidiary, Ticketmaster LLC (Live Nation-Ticketmaster) for monopolization and other unlawful conduct that thwarts competition in markets across the live entertainment industry. The lawsuit, which includes a request for structural relief, seeks to restore competition in the live concert industry, provide better choices at lower prices for fans, and open venue doors for working musicians and other performance artists. The complaint, filed today in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York, alleges that Live Nation-Ticketmaster unlawfully exercises its monopoly power in violation of Section 2 of the Sherman Act. As a result of its conduct, music fans in the United States are deprived of ticketing innovation and forced to use outdated technology while paying more for tickets than fans in other countries. At the same time, Live Nation-Ticketmaster exercises its power over performers, venues, and independent promoters in ways that harm competition. Live Nation-Ticketmaster also imposes barriers to competition that limit the entry and expansion of its rivals. “We allege that Live Nation relies on unlawful, anticompetitive conduct to exercise its monopolistic control over the live events industry in the United States at the cost of fans, artists, smaller promoters, and venue operators,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “The result is that fans pay more in fees, artists have fewer opportunities to play concerts, smaller promoters get squeezed out, and venues have fewer real choices for ticketing services. It is time to break up Live Nation-Ticketmaster.” “Today’s announcement reflects the latest efforts by the Justice Department to combat corporate misconduct,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “Our fight against corporate wrongdoing includes an intense focus on anticompetitive conduct — which disadvantages consumers, workers, and businesses of all kinds. Today’s complaint alleges that Live Nation-Ticketmaster have engaged in anticompetitive conduct to cement their dominance of the live concert market and act as the gatekeeper for an entire industry. Today’s action is a step forward in making this era of live music more accessible for the fans, the artists, and the industry that supports them.” “The Department is committed to competition throughout the economy, including in live music,” said Acting Associate Attorney General Benjamin C. Mizer. “As our complaint alleges, Live Nation-Ticketmaster monopolizes the markets for concerts and other live events at the expense of fans, venues, and artists across the country. The Department is proud to bring this case to restore competition to this industry.” “The live music industry in America is broken because Live Nation-Ticketmaster has an illegal monopoly,” said Assistant Attorney General Jonathan Kanter of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “Our antitrust lawsuit seeks to break up Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s monopoly and restore competition for the benefit of fans and artists.” According to the complaint, Live Nation-Ticketmaster has unlawfully maintained monopolies in several concert promotions and primary ticketing markets and engaged in other exclusionary conduct affecting live concert venues, including arenas and amphitheaters. The complaint further alleges that Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s exclusionary practices fortify and protect what it refers to as its “flywheel.” The flywheel is Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s self-reinforcing business model that captures fees and revenue from concert fans and sponsorship, uses that revenue to lock up artists to exclusive promotion deals, and then uses its powerful cache of live content to sign venues into long term exclusive ticketing deals, thereby starting the cycle all over again. Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s anticompetitive conduct creates even more barriers for rivals to compete on the merits. Specifically, Live Nation-Ticketmaster engaged in a variety of tactics to eliminate competition and monopolize markets: Relationship with Oak View Group: Live Nation-Ticketmaster exploits its longtime relationship with Oak View Group, a potential competitor-turned-partner that has described itself as a “hammer” and “protect[or]” for Live Nation. In recent years, Oak View Group has avoided bidding against Live Nation for artist talent and influenced venues to sign exclusive agreements with Ticketmaster. For example, Live Nation has scolded Oak View Group multiple times for trying to compete. In one instance, Live Nation asked, “who would be so stupid to . . . play into [an artist agent’s] arms,” and on another occasion, Live Nation stated, “let’s make sure we don’t let [the artist agency] now start playing us off.” Retaliating Against Potential Entrants: Live Nation-Ticketmaster successfully threatened financial retaliation against a firm unless it stopped one of its subsidiaries from competing to gain a foothold in the U.S. concert promotions market. Threatening and Retaliating Against Venues that Work with Rivals: Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s power in concert promotions means that every live concert venue knows choosing another promoter or ticketer comes with a risk of drawing an adverse reaction from Live Nation-Ticketmaster that would result in losing concerts, revenue, and fans. Locking Out Competition with Exclusionary Contracts: Live Nation-Ticketmaster locks concert venues into long-term exclusive contracts so that venues cannot consider or choose rival ticketers or switch to better or more cost-effective ticketing technology. These contracts allow Live Nation-Ticketmaster to reduce competitive pressure to improve its own ticketing technology and customer service. Blocking Venues from Using Multiple Ticketers: Live Nation-Ticketmaster’s conduct and exclusive contracts prevent new and different promotions and ticketing competitors and business models from emerging. They block venues from being able to use multiple ticketers, who would compete by offering the best mix of prices, fees, quality, and innovation to fans. Restricting Artists’ Access to Venues: Live Nation-Ticketmaster has increasingly gained control of key venues, including amphitheaters, through acquisitions, partnerships, and agreements. Live Nation-Ticketmaster restricts artists’ use of those venues unless those artists also agree to use their promotion services. Acquiring Competitors and Competitive Threats: Live Nation-Ticketmaster strategically acquired a number of smaller and regional promoters that it had internally identified as threats. This has undermined competition and impacted artist compensation. Live Nation Entertainment Inc. is a Delaware corporation headquartered in Beverly Hills, California. It describes itself as the “largest live entertainment company in the world,” the “largest producer of live music concerts in the world,” and “the world’s leading live entertainment ticketing sales and marketing company.” Live Nation also owns or controls more than 265 concert venues in North America, including more than 60 of the top 100 amphitheaters in the United States. It generates over $22 billion globally in annual revenue from three business segments: concerts (e.g., promotions, venue management, and music festival production), ticketing (e.g., Ticketmaster business), and sponsorship and advertising. Ticketmaster LLC is a wholly owned subsidiary of Live Nation. It is a Virginia limited liability company with headquarters in Beverly Hills. Ticketmaster sells concert tickets to fans when those tickets first go on sale and operates resale platforms that enable purchasers to resell those tickets at a later time. Ticketmaster is by far the largest concert ticketing company in the United States, multiple times the size of its closest competitor. View the complaint.


title: Justice Department Reaches Agreement with the City of Pawtucket to Resolve Voting Discrimination Claims in Rhode Island

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE, RI – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island and the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division announced today that the United States has entered into a proposed consent decree with the City of Pawtucket, Rhode Island, and city election officials, to settle a voting rights lawsuit , announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha and Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. The proposed consent decree was filed in federal court in Rhode Island in conjunction with a lawsuit brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the Civil Rights Division. The lawsuit alleges that Pawtucket failed to provide election assistance and materials in Spanish for Spanish-speaking voters with limited English proficiency, in violation of Section 203 of the Voting Rights Act. Section 203 requires that certain jurisdictions, including Pawtucket, provide election materials and assistance in other languages, in addition to English. The lawsuit also alleges that Pawtucket and city election officials refused to allow individuals who were qualified to cast a provisional ballot to do so, and failed to train and instruct poll workers accurately and adequately regarding the requirements for provisional ballots, all in violation of Section 302 of the Help America Vote Act. Under the proposed consent decree, which is subject to approval by a special three-judge court in the U.S. District Court of Rhode Island, the City of Pawtucket and Board of Canvassers will provide all election-related information in both English and Spanish, including information displayed in polling places and online. The City will also ensure that in-person language assistance is available at all early voting sites and at each election precinct with at least 100 Spanish-surnamed registered voters. In addition, the consent decree provides that the City will provide specific training for poll workers. The City will recruit bilingual poll workers and provide training to all bilingual poll workers on Spanish language election terminology, how to provide effective language assistance, and voting instructions. The City will train all poll workers on the provisional ballot requirements under Section 302. The consent decree also provides that federal observers may monitor election day activities in polling places in Pawtucket. “The right to vote is the right on which all others depend.” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha, “and this Office will remain vigilant in enforcing our civil rights laws to ensure that illegal barriers to access do not keep Americans from casting their ballots. I am grateful for our continued partnership with the Civil Rights Division on this case, and commend the City of Pawtucket for taking action to ensure that these issues are addressed.” “Language barriers should never prevent an eligible voter from being able to fully participate in the democratic process,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Providing bilingual materials and language assistance for those who are limited English proficient will ensure that these citizens have a meaningful opportunity to participate in our democracy. We will continue to confront any barriers that stand between voters and the ability to cast their vote.” More information about the Voting Rights Act and other federal voting rights laws are available on the Justice Department’s website at https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section . Individuals may file voting rights complaints with the Civil Rights Division either online here or may call (800)253-3931. Individuals may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island either by emailing usari.civilrightscomplaint@usdoj.gov or by calling (401)709-5010. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy R. Romero from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island, and Deputy Chief Timothy Mellett and Trial Attorney Maria Rios of the Voting Section in the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. ### consent_order.pdf pawtucket_doj_filed_complaint.pdf


title: El Departamento de Justicia llega a un acuerdo con la ciudad de Pawtucket para resolver reclamos de discriminación electoral en Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE, RI – La Oficina del Fiscal Federal para el Distrito de Rhode Island y la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia anunciaron hoy que Estados Unidos ha firmado una propuesta de decreto de consentimiento con la ciudad de Pawtucket, Rhode Island, y funcionarios electorales de la ciudad, para resolver una demanda sobre derechos de voto , anuncio el Fiscal de los Estados Unidos Zachary A. Cunha y Asistente Fiscal General Kristen Clark de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia El decreto de consentimiento propuesto se presentó ante un tribunal federal de Rhode Island junto con una demanda presentada por la Fiscalía Federal y la División de Derechos Civiles. La demanda alega que Pawtucket no proporcionó asistencia electoral ni materiales en español a votantes que hablan español con dominio limitado del inglés, en violación de la Sección 203 de la Ley de Derecho al Voto. La Sección 203 exige que ciertas jurisdicciones, incluyendo Pawtucket, proporcionen materiales electorales y asistencia en otros idiomas, además del inglés. La demanda también alega que Pawtucket y los funcionarios electorales de la ciudad se negaron a permitir que las personas que estaban calificadas para emitir un voto provisional lo hicieran y no capacitaron ni instruyeron a los trabajadores electorales de manera precisa y adecuada sobre los requisitos para los votos provisionales, todo en violación de la Sección 302 de la Ley Ayudemos a Estados Unidos a Votar. Según el decreto de consentimiento propuesto, cual está sujeto a la aprobación de un tribunal especial de tres jueces en el Tribunal de Distrito de Rhode Island de los EE. UU., la ciudad de Pawtucket y la Junta de Encuestadores proporcionarán toda la información relacionada con las elecciones en inglés y español, incluyendo información mostrada en los lugares de votación y en línea. La Ciudad también garantizará que haya asistencia lingüística en persona disponible en todos los sitios de votación anticipada y en cada distrito electoral con al menos 100 votantes registrados de apellido hispano. Además, el decreto de consentimiento establece que la Ciudad brindará capacitación específica a los trabajadores electorales. La Ciudad reclutará trabajadores electorales bilingües y brindará capacitación a todos los trabajadores electorales bilingües sobre terminología electoral en español, cómo brindar asistencia lingüística efectiva y instrucciones de votación. La Ciudad capacitará a todos los trabajadores electorales sobre los requisitos de la boleta provisional según la Sección 302. El decreto de consentimiento también establece que los observadores federales pueden monitorear las actividades del día de las elecciones en los lugares de votación en Pawtucket. "El derecho a votar es el derecho del que dependen todos los demás". dijo el Fiscal Federal Zachary A. Cunha, “y esta Oficina permanecerá alerta para hacer cumplir nuestras leyes de derechos civiles para garantizar que las barreras ilegales de acceso no impidan que los estadounidenses emitan sus votos. Agradezco nuestra continua asociación con la División de Derechos Civiles en este caso y felicito a la ciudad de Pawtucket por tomar medidas para garantizar que se solucionen estos problemas”. “Las barreras idiomáticas jamás deben privar a un votante elegible de participar plenamente en el proceso democrático,” dijo Kristen Clarke, Secretaria de Justicia Auxiliar a cargo de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia. “Proveer materiales bilingües y asistencia para aquellas personas con conocimientos limitados del inglés asegurará que dichos ciudadanos tendrán la oportunidad de participar en nuestra democracia. Nosotros seguiremos enfrentando a las barreras que se interponen entre los votantes y sus oportunidades de emitir sus votos.” Más información sobre la Ley de Derecho al Voto y otras leyes federales sobre el derecho al voto están disponibles en el sitio web del Departamento de Justicia https://www.justice.gov/crt/voting-section . Individuos pueden presentar quejas sobre derechos de voto ante la División de Derechos Civiles ya sea en línea aqui o pueden llamar (800) 253-3931. Individuos también pueden comunicarse con la Oficina del Fiscal Federal para el Distrito de Rhode Island enviando un correo electrónico a usari.civilrightscomplaint@usdoj.gov o por llamada a (401)709-5010. El gobierno está representado por la Fiscal Federal Auxiliar Amy R. Romero de la Fiscalía Federal para el Distrito de Rhode Island, y el Jefe Adjunto Timothy Mellett y la Abogada Litigante María Ríos de la Sección de Votación de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia.. ### consent_order.pdf pawtucket_doj_filed_complaint.pdf


title: Berkeley County Business Owners Admit to Tax Fraud

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – The owners of three Inwood, West Virginia businesses have admitted to failing to pay $300,000 in income taxes. Mark L. Peters, 55, and Aimee Michelle Peters, 52, the owners and operators of Pizza Oven; Dragonfly Health, LLC; and Allied Light and Sound, pled guilty to conspiracy to obstruct or impede the Internal Revenue Service. According to court documents, Mark and Aimee Peters failed to declare nearly $1.3 million in income to the IRS for four years. Mark and Aimee Peters each face up to five years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. As a part of their plea agreements, the defendants agreed to pay $672.286.59, which includes the tax loss, penalties, and interest. The case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eleanor Hurney is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert W. Trumble presided. ###


title: U.S. Attorney Mark Totten, Law Enforcement Partners Announce Safe Summer 2024 Program to Curb Gun Violence

body_text: Effort will focus on federal firearms offenders with crime guns GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced Safe Summer 2024, a program to address the rise in gun violence that often accompanies the warmer summer months. Under this program, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will federally prosecute all firearms offenders who possess crime guns – namely, guns previously fired in the commission of a crime. “Gun violence is now the leading cause of death for youth in America and has inflicted immense trauma on communities across Michigan,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “While we will never prosecute our way out of the gun violence epidemic, Safe Summer 2024 is a part of the solution and is focused on deterring and holding accountable those few individuals driving violence.” He continued: “Safety is a civil right. Your zip code should not determine whether you can walk down the street without fear of gun fire. My team and our partners will not rest until every person, in every neighborhood, in every community is safe from violence.” WATCH: Video message from U.S. Attorney Totten announcing Safe Summer 2024 Regional press conferences will be held today in Benton Harbor (9 a.m.), Kalamazoo (11 a.m.), Lansing (1:30 p.m.), and Grand Rapids (3:30 p.m.). Each can be viewed on the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan’s Facebook Page . U.S. Attorney Totten was joined by local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to announce Safe Summer 2024 in a series of four press conferences across the District, with stops in Benton Harbor, Kalamazoo, Lansing, and Grand Rapids. The program will run from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Under this program, the U.S. Attorney’s Office will prosecute all cases that satisfy two criteria. First, the case must involve a federal firearms offense. The two most common offenses are felon in possession, which prohibits previously convicted felons from possessing a gun, and possession of a machine gun , which generally prohibits persons from possessing fully automatic guns. Second, the case must involve a crime gun, which is any gun previously fired in the commission of a crime. These criteria will focus federal efforts on the few individuals driving gun violence in their communities. For example, under Safe Summer 2023 the U.S. Attorney’s Office charged Anthony Clarence Pratt, age 24, from Kalamazoo, with being a felon in possession of a firearm and with possessing a machine gun. On August 10, 2023, law enforcement attempted to arrest Pratt on several outstanding warrants as he was walking down the street. Pratt fled but was quickly apprehended. Law enforcement recovered a firearm that Pratt tossed when he ran. The gun was a loaded, .40 caliber, Glock pistol equipped with a machine gun conversion device – sometimes called a “switch” – that allowed the gun to fire fully automatic. The gun had an extended magazine with 17 rounds. Investigators later determined the gun was stolen and was a crime gun, used in one or more previous crimes. On April 30, 2024, a federal judge sentenced Pratt to 7 years in prison. The government’s sentencing memorandum is attached to this release. This case was the first case from last summer’s program to reach sentencing; the remaining cases continue to work through the criminal justice system. “Gun violence affects us all. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is resolute and unwavering in its commitment to aggressively pursue, identify, and prosecute violent criminals, specifically those involved in gun crimes and gang violence,” said ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir . “ATF’s unique Crime Gun Intelligence and National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (NIBIN) capabilities in conjunction with our well-established mutual partnerships with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, federal, state, and local law enforcement, are fundamental to the success of making our communities safe.” “Working with our local, county and federal law enforcement partners to address gun crimes is a key component in maintaining public safety,” said Col. James F. Grady II, Director of the Michigan State Police (MSP) . “With warmer days and longer evenings upon us, spikes in the use of unlawful firearms and violent criminal activity usually follows. I’m grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for bringing this program back for a second year in recognition of the value and impact federal gun crime penalties have in deterring violence and bringing justice to crime victims.” “The Michigan State Police is committed to supporting our local partners in reducing violence in West Michigan. This announcement from U.S. Attorney Mark Totten is a clear message to the few people in our communities who would illegally use a firearm,” said Capt. Jason Nemecek, Commander of MSP’s Sixth District . “Gun violence will not be tolerated in West Michigan, and prosecution will be swift.” “Protecting our residents from the dangers of violent crime is a top priority for the Benton Harbor Department of Public Safety (BHDPS),” said BHDPS Director Daniel McGinnis . “We are pleased to partner with our law enforcement partners for the second year of the Safe Summer 2024 Initiative. This program is yet another resource for us as we continue our work to take illegal guns off our streets and hold accountable those driving the crime in our neighborhoods. We appreciate the partnerships that help provide a safer community for our residents." “As chief, my top priority is keeping our community safe,” said Benton Charter Township Police Department Chief Greg Abrams . “I am a first-hand witness that the U.S. Attorney’s Safe Summer Initiative is a vital cog in the wheels of justice when it comes to relentless prosecution of major gun crime offenders.” Chief Abrams added, “I’m especially proud of the multi-jurisdictional investigation, led by the Benton Charter Township Police Department, that resulted in the indictment of two men who stole over 120 handguns and kidnapped the manager of Dunham’s Sports at gunpoint. The suspects were apprehended in less than 24 hours and all the handguns recovered. The department and our citizens are grateful for all the partnerships that help keep our community safe.” “Keeping our community safe is our top priority at the Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety,” said KDPS Chief David Boysen . “Safe Summer 2024 will send a clear message to offenders that if you choose to be a shooter in our community, we will be working closely with our federal law enforcement partners to make sure you are held accountable. I would like to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan for making this initiative possible. We are excited to work with our federal partners to keep Kalamazoo safe.” “The Battle Creek Police Department’s primary focus is the safety of our community,” said BCPD Chief Shannon Bagley . “We will continue our collaboration with local, state, and federal partners to address gun violence. The Safe Summer Initiative is a powerful tool that we hope will deter gun violence and keep our residents safe.” “The Lansing Police Department is eager to once again partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Safe Summer 2024 project,” said LPD Chief Ellery Sosebee. “Gun violence continues to affect our community at tragic levels. Partnerships like this are crucial to stop violent crime trends and we are thankful to be a part of it.” “I’ve long said that Lansing has a three-pronged approach to handling gun violence - Prevention, Intervention, and Justice,” said City of Lansing Mayor Andy Schor. “This also must be a multi-level approach with local, state, and federal officials collaborating to combat this issue. By working together, we can ensure that those who commit gun crimes are prosecuted and taken off our streets.” “We rely on our community's help to look out for their children and neighbors; in order to know what happens, who’s involved, and not tolerate violent crime in their home or neighborhood,” said Kent County Sheriff Michelle LaJoye-Young . “We pledge to continue to prioritize the resolution of violent crime in our community.” “We are very appreciative of U.S. Attorney Mark Totten’s willingness to review cases of gun violence in our community to see if federal charges could be pursued,” said Grand Rapids Police Department (GRPD) Chief Eric Winstrom . “On average, GRPD takes one illegally possessed gun off the streets every day. I am grateful for this partnership to help keep our community safe.” Gun violence is an acute problem across the United States. In 2021, for the first time ever, firearm-related injuries became the leading cause of death for American children, ages birth to 19, according to the New England Journal of Medicine ( see also here ). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention , the U.S. firearm homicide rate in 2021 was the highest documented since 1993. While the numbers have declined since 2021, they remain high. Moreover, while gun violence has the potential to impact everyone, recent studies show that gun violence has a disparate impact on people of color. A study in the Journal of the American Medical Association shows that the disparity in shooting injuries among children before and after the pandemic in four major cities approximately tripled as between white children and children of color (Black, Hispanic, Asian). ###


title: Chicago Man Convicted of Federal Gun Charge

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

body_text: HAMMOND- Late yesterday, Hamidullah Tribble, 28 years old, of Chicago, Illinois, was convicted of being a felon in possession of a firearm following a two-day jury trial before United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon, announced United States Attorney Clifford D. Johnson. Tribble’s sentencing will be scheduled at a later date. Any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the District Court Judge after consideration of federal statutes and the United States Sentencing Guidelines. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Indiana High Intensity Drug Trafficking Task Force and the Lake County Sheriff’s Department. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly L. Schultz. 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: Gainesville Man Convicted for Making Threats Against Roanoke  Federal Credit Union

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: ROANOKE, Va. – A Gainesville, Virginia man, who threatened to “blow-up Roanoke” and to rape and kill two credit union employees, was convicted last week of making threats in interstate commerce following a two-day trial. Brandon Hayward, 35, was convicted of two counts of knowingly transmitting in interstate commerce threats to injure two employees of the InFirst Federal Credit Union. According to evidence presented at trial, on August 15, 2022, Hayward called the InFirst Federal Credit Union customer service line with a complaint about his account. Unsatisfied with the assistance he was receiving, he proceeded to threaten two different employees of the credit union. Hayward specifically threatened to rape and kill Victim 1, adding that he was going to get his shotgun. Hayward further threatened to find Victim 1 by searching for her last name and stated, “You think you’re safe in Roanoke; you’re not.” Hayward later threatened to come to Victim 2’s home and rape her. Both victims had prior experience with Hayward in the course of their employment with InFirst. At sentencing, Hayward faces a maximum statutory penalty of up to five years in federal prison. United States Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh of the Western District of Virginia made the announcement. The Department of Homeland Security and Federal Protective Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristin B. Johnson and Lee Brett are prosecuting the case for the United States.


title: Convicted Child Predator Sentenced to 40+ Years in Federal Prison

component: USAO - Illinois, Southern

body_text: EAST ST. LOUIS, Ill. – A federal district judge sentenced a registered sex offender to spend 485 months in prison after a jury convicted him of sexually exploiting another minor. In addition to imprisonment, the judge also ordered Dan R. Waeckerle, Jr., 45, of Swansea, to serve a lifetime of supervised release and pay a $1,000 fine. In January, a jury found Waeckerle 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. “Child predators like Waeckerle leave their victims with lasting trauma, and this significant prison sentence sends a strong message to abusers,” said U.S. Attorney Rachelle Aud Crowe. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to protect children from offenders. I commend the O’Fallon Police Department for their investigation which ultimately placed Waeckerle behind bars.” According to court documents, Waeckerle had sexually explicit conversations with a 15-year-old minor via text message in July 2021. Evidence presented during the trial revealed Waeckerle sent the minor a genital image, requested sexually explicit images and videos from the minor, and discussed meeting the minor for sex. “We are proud to work with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to help keep children safe from predators,” said David Bolin, Acting Supervisor for the U.S. Secret Service Springfield Resident Office. “We will continue working with our partners to protect children and deter other predators from harming them in the future.” Waeckerle was previously convicted of aggravated criminal sexual abuse against a minor in Hamilton County, Illinois, in 2010. 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: U.S. Attorney Recognizes Public Servants and Law Enforcement

body_text: WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld honored 22 public servants and law enforcement officials today for their exceptional work. The annual United States Attorney Awards were held today in Wheeling to recognize outstanding criminal investigations and community service work in the Northern District of West Virginia. Through their service and dedication, the recipients have made a transformational impact in the communities they serve. Those recognized and honored were as follows: Distinguished Law Enforcement Lifetime Achievement Awards Scott Smith, Ohio County Prosecuting Attorney, Wheeling, WV, George Swartwood, Chief (retired), Martinsburg, Police Department, Martinsburg, WV, Dean Olack, Sergeant (retired), West Virginia State Police, Martinsburg, WV, U.S. Attorney’s Award for Excellence in Law Enforcement Leadership Clayton Amsler, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent, FBI, Clarksburg, WV, U.S. Attorney’s Champion of Children Award Wesley Frederick, Deputy U.S. Marshal, United States Marshals Service, Clarksburg, WV, Outstanding Community Volunteer Jody Miller, Wheeling WV, Outstanding Investigative Effort Ellen Duffy, Special Agent, FBI, Martinsburg, WV, Outstanding Drug Investigations Ohio Valley Drug Task Force, Wheeling WV, Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Shawn Adkins, Canonsburg, PA, Marshall County Drug Task Force, Moundsville, WV, Jeffrey H. Cisar, Supervisory Senior Resident Agent, FBI, Martinsburg, WV, U.S. Attorney’s Award for Outstanding Performance in Firearms Trafficking Investigations Seth Cox, Special Agent, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Martinsburg, WV, Outstanding Identity Theft Investigation Dale Forrester, Assistant Inspector, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration, Washington, D.C., Salman Farooqui, Special Agent, IRS-Criminal Investigations, Los Angeles, CA, Victor Vanacore, Special Agent, IRS-Criminal Investigations, Los Angeles, CA, Outstanding Hate Crime Investigation Matthew Messich, Special Agent, FBI, Wheeling, WV, Grant Polson, Special Agent, FBI, Pittsburgh, PA, Madisyn Moore, Special Agent, FBI, Pittsburgh, PA, Stephanie Sikinger, Intelligence Analyst, FBI, Pittsburgh, PA, Outstanding Elder Fraud Investigation Dontuwee Boykin, Supervisory Special Agent, IRS-Criminal Investigations, Bridgeport, WV, J.W. Smith, Corporal (retired), West Virginia State Police, Clarksburg, WV, Loretta Phillips, Des Moines, WA.


title: Carbon County Man Sentenced To 132 Months’ Imprisonment For Methamphetamine Trafficking

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Curtis Margle, age 34, of Lehighton, Carbon County, was sentenced on May 21, 2024, by U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to 132 months’ imprisonment on the charge of possession with intent to distribute crystal methamphetamine. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Margle pleaded guilty and admitted to possessing between 200 grams and 350 grams of high-quality crystal methamphetamine for distribution in the Schuylkill County and Carbon County areas in 2022. The charges stem from an investigation in which investigators made a purchase of crystal methamphetamine from Margle in March 2022 in Schuylkill County and later seized an additional quantity of crystal methamphetamine from Margle. The charges against Margle resulted from an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Schuylkill County Drug Task Force. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. # # #