title: Four People Sentenced in Federal Court for Schemes to Smuggle Drugs into the Polk County Jail

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DES MOINES, IA – Four individuals have been sentenced in federal court for schemes to smuggle drugs into the Polk County Jail. On December 19, 2022, Michael Joseph Wilson, 35 of Des Moines, was sentenced to 12 months in prison for attempt to possess contraband in a federal facility. On April 11, 2023, Fawn Ann Colyn, 57 of Des Moines, was sentenced to 30 months in prison after pleading guilty to providing contraband in a federal facility. On April 28, 2023, Randall Joseph Verbeski, 61 of Sioux City, was sentenced to thirty months in prison for possessing contraband in a federal facility. On April 28, 2023, Ashley Michelle Evans, 35 of Ottumwa, was sentenced to a term of five years’ probation for attempt to provide contraband in a federal facility. According to court documents, as well as evidence presented at the sentencing hearings, Colyn and Verbeski engaged in a scheme to mail Suboxone and other opioids into the Polk County Jail, which houses federal prisoners. The scheme involved Colyn, who was not incarcerated, hiding drugs in envelopes and documents disguised as legal mail, and then sending those envelopes to Verbeski. Verbeski was in the Polk County Jail serving a federal sentence related to a prior gun and drug trafficking offense. According to court documents, Wilson and Evans engaged in a similar scheme to mail MDMB-4en-PINACA, commonly known as K2, into the Polk County Jail. Evans, who was not incarcerated, hid the K2 in an envelope and document disguised as legal mail which she sent to Wilson. At the time, Wilson was in the Polk County Jail after officers found methamphetamine, heroin, MDMA, and a loaded revolver at his residence in Des Moines. At the time of his arrest, Wilson was on federal supervised release out of Indiana for a firearm conviction. Wilson was ultimately sentenced to a total term of 240 months, for the Iowa and Indiana federal charges. Following their prison sentences, Colyn, Verbeski, and Wilson will serve terms of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Polk County Sheriff Kevin J. Schneider said “Maintaining the highest level of security at the Polk County Jail is one of my top priorities, and a mission for our staff. Our strong working relationships with partner agencies allow us to remain successful. I am proud of the Polk County Sheriff’s Office staff, and appreciate the great work done by the United States Marshals Service and the United States Attorney’s Office in concluding these cases.” “Once again, these positive outcomes show the importance of maintaining a solid working relationship with our local partners. The communication and close bonds we’ve formed, serves as a force multiplier, to assure we can deliver the best service possible,” said United States Marshal Ted G. Kamatchus of the Southern District of Iowa. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. The investigated was conducted by the United States Marshals Service and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office—Jail Division.


title: Leader and others sent to federal prison for operating Houston stash house

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – A total of five people, all illegally residing in Houston, have been sentenced in connection with the April 2021 discovery of nearly 100 undocumented aliens in a suburban Houston residence, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. The leader in the conspiracy - Henry Licona-Larios, 34, Copan, Honduras - pleaded guilty May 24, 2022. Today, U.S. District Judge Keith Ellison ordered him to serve 41 months in federal prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face removal proceedings following his imprisonment. At the hearing, the court heard additional evidence that detailed the inhumane conditions to which these undocumented aliens were subjected and that Licona-Larios was connected to an additional stash house discovered in December 2020. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the seriousness of the offense and Licona-Larios’s verbal and physical mistreatment of the undocumented aliens. Four others had also pleaded guilty for their respective roles and were previously sentenced. Those included Marina Garcia-Diaz, 24, San Miguel, El Salvador, who received 27 months as well as Marcelo Garcia-Palacios, 23, Oaxaca, Mexico; Kevin Licona-Lopez, 27, Santa Barbara, Honduras; and Marco Baca-Perez, 22, Michoacan, Mexico, all of whom were ordered to serve 30 months. All are also expected to face removal proceedings. “You cannot trust a human smuggler. Giving them money will put your life in danger,” said Hamdani. “These five people preyed on the desperation of foreign nationals hoping to get into the country. This sentence makes it clear - we will not allow the victimization of people for profit.” The investigation began April 30, 2021, when authorities learned of a kidnapping. A woman reported that she had paid several thousand dollars for her brother to be smuggled into the country. However, the smugglers demanded more money before they would release him. They also threatened to harm him if the money was not paid. The investigation led to a residence on Chessington Drive in Southwest Houston. There, authorities ultimately found 97 illegal aliens held in two rooms of the residence. The rooms had deadbolts on the doors facing the outside which prevented escape. All of the male individuals were in their undergarments. One was told if the money was not paid, he would be put in “4 pieces of wood.” All five have been and will remain in custody. Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen M. Lansden prosecuted the case.


title: Shoreline, Washington, man sentenced to 51 months in prison for illegal possession of ammunition

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – A 45-year-old Shoreline, Washington man was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle to 51 months in prison for unlawful possession of ammunition, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. Rustam Yusupov pleaded guilty in February 2023, following his arrest in March of 2022. At today’s sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge John C. Coughenour said the prevalence of guns on the streets is leading “to a bloodbath in this country.” “Washington State is a pioneer in Red Flag laws designed to keep firearms out of the hands of those who pose a danger,” said U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. “We will never know what motivated Mr. Yusupov to bring high powered firearms and sniper rifles to a downtown hotel. This prosecution means his arsenal has been surrendered to police, and he remains prohibited from purchasing more firearms in the future.” According to records filed in the case, Seattle Police Officers were called to a downtown Seattle hotel room on March 10, 2022, with reports of a distraught man asking the hotel staff for assistance. When the officers went to the hotel room, they noted that furnishings had been over-tuned, with the mattress moved to block the door. Police found two firearms in the room – including a “ghost gun,” -- a firearm without a serial number. Due to his agitated state, Yusupov was transported for medical attention. As officers were preparing to leave the hotel, a staff member working in the garage alerted them to weapons he had seen in Yusupov’s car. In the car were multiple firearms – including two additional “ghost guns.” In all, police recovered: FMK Firearms Model AR-1 Extreme 5.56 NATO caliber rifle. Aero Precision Model X15 5.56 caliber pistol. Ruger Model 5.7 5.7x28mm caliber pistol. Ruger Model 18029 Precision 6.5mm Creedmoor/.308 Winchester Caliber rifle. Kel-Tec Model Sub 2000 9x19mm caliber rifle. A North American Arms Corp. Derringer .22 revolver. Two Polymer80 9mm caliber pistols with no serial number. A skeletonized AR-15 5.56 NATO caliber pistol with no serial number. In his plea agreement Yusupov admits that he is the subject of a domestic violence protection order. He had been ordered by King County Superior Court to surrender all his weapons. In March 2020 and again in May 2021, Yusupov was ordered to surrender his firearms and had signed paperwork and informed law enforcement that he no longer possessed any firearms. When law enforcement went to search Yusupov’s home, they found the walls smeared with blood. Testing revealed that it was the blood of a dog. A dog was also found in the home in a kennel, badly malnourished. It was taken to a shelter for care. The search of the home resulted in the recovery of two inert grenades; a container for 120mm rocket projectiles; hundreds of rounds of assorted ammunition (both handgun and rifle caliber), including 600 rounds of Israel Military Industries 5.56mm caliber ammunition; multiple handguns and rifle magazines (some loaded); assorted pistol slides; a ballistic vest with rifle plates; a bolt-action rifle; and assorted firearms accessories and firearms parts. Yusupov is forfeiting multiple firearms and ammunition to the government. The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, & Explosives (ATF). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Todd Greenberg.


title: Pharmacy Owners Charged with $26 Million Health Care Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: An indictment was unsealed today in federal court in Brooklyn charging Taesung “Terry” Kim and Dacheng “Bruce” Lu with perpetrating a health care fraud scheme to submit false and fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid for medically unnecessary prescriptions and over-the-counter products that were not actually dispensed, to pay illegal kickbacks and bribes, and to launder the proceeds of their scheme. The defendants were arrested this morning and are scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Cheryl L. Pollak. Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Kenneth A. Polite, Jr., Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Michael J. Driscoll, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Naomi Gruchacz, Special Agent-in-Charge, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), announced the arrests and charges. As set forth in court filings, the defendants owned and operated four pharmacies: 888 Pharmacy Inc. and Huikang Pharmacy Inc., located in Brooklyn, and Elmcare Pharmacy Inc. and NY Elm Pharmacy Inc., located in Queens. Between January 2015 and December 2022, Kim and Lu allegedly conspired with others to submit false and fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid for the dispensing of pharmaceutical and over-the-counter products that were medically unnecessary, procured by the payment of kickbacks and bribes, or not provided. Further, Kim and Lu allegedly conspired with others who paid illegal kickbacks and bribes, in the form of cash and supermarket gift certificates, to Medicare beneficiaries and Medicaid recipients who filled their prescriptions at their pharmacies. Kim and Lu also conspired with others to pay and paid illegal kickbacks and bribes, in the form of rent and office staff, to the doctors who prescribed the medically unnecessary medications filled at their pharmacies. Kim and Lu allegedly laundered the proceeds of their fraud through shell entities to generate cash that they could disperse as profits to themselves and the pharmacies’ other owners, and to pay pharmacy customers as kickbacks. As part of the scheme, Kim and Lu’s pharmacies submitted approximately $26 million in fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid. The charges in the indictment are allegations, and the defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. The defendants each face a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for conspiracy to commit health care fraud, 20 years in prison for conspiracy to commit money laundering, and five years in prison for conspiracy to pay illegal health care kickbacks and bribes. Trial Attorney Patrick J. Campbell and Acting Assistant Chief Miriam Glaser Dauermann of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. The Defendants: TAESUNG KIM (also known as “Terry”) Age: 58 Great Neck, New York DACHENG LU (also known as “Bruce”) Age: 44 Flushing, New York E.D.N.Y. Docket Number: 23-CR-191 (ARR)


title: Fort Myers Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Unlawfully Possessing A Firearm As A Convicted Felon

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Jontavious Jarquel Griffin (34, Fort Myers) to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a previously convicted felon. The court also ordered Griffin to forfeit the firearm and ammunition possessed during the offense. Griffin had pleaded guilty on January 25, 2023. According to court records, on July 27, 2022, deputies from the Lee County Sheriff’s Office (LCSO) conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle being driven and solely occupied by Griffin. Deputies later searched the vehicle, and inside a backpack on the front-passenger seat, they found a loaded Smith & Wesson handgun and quantities of cocaine and fentanyl. As a convicted felon, who had previously served prison time for a drug-related crime, Griffin is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Simon R. Eth. 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: Young man admits to transporting automatic weapon parts into Mexico

body_text: McALLEN, Texas – A 19-year-old Edinburg resident has pleaded guilty to smuggling goods from the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Peter Deshaewn Maldonado-Guillen admitted to attempting to export five AK-47 rifle barrels without a license or written approval. On Feb. 14, Maldonado-Guillen crossed through the Hidalgo Port of Entry (POE). However, Mexican authorities selected his vehicle for inspection and denied entry into Mexico. He was not in possession of the appropriate documentation for the vehicle and had to return to the United States. Once back at the Hidalgo POE, he denied having any firearms, but U.S. authorities referred him and his vehicle for secondary inspection. During a search of the vehicle, law enforcement discovered five AK-47 barrels in the quarter panel area of the vehicle. Maldonado-Guillen admitted to taking possession of the weapon parts in the United States, loading them into his vehicle and transporting the weapon parts into Mexico. AK-47 barrels are designated as defense articles on the U.S. Munitions List. Maldonado-Guillen did not obtain consent or a license to export the weapon parts into Mexico. U.S. Chief District Judge Randy Crane will impose sentencing July 13. At that time, Maldonado-Guillen faces up to 10 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing. Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jose A. Garcia is prosecuting the case.


title: Marijuana Vending Machine Owner Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing Firearm

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – A man who owned and operated a marijuana vending machine in Detroit has pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced today. Ison was joined in the announcement by James M. Deir, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Detroit Division. Marcellus Cornwell, 44, of Detroit, entered his guilty plea in front of United States District Judge Stephen J. Murphy, III. An anonymous tip alerted ATF agents to Cornwell’s marijuana vending machine last spring. Cornwell had been operating the marijuana vending machine for about four years. After an investigation, ATF agents executed a search warrant at Cornwell’s then-residence and discovered ammunition, marijuana, and 18 firearms in a basement gun safe. Cornwell had been previously convicted of identity theft, felony firearm, being a felon in possession of a firearm, and armed robbery, which are all felonies. Three of the guns that Cornwell possessed had had been reported as stolen. Cornwell faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and/or a fine of $250,000. “Firearms pose a danger to our community. These weapons should not be in the hands of convicted felons. The number of weapons this defendant possessed despite being a prohibited person combined with his drug dealing makes his conduct even more egregious,” U.S. Attorney Ison said. “Today’s guilty plea demonstrates ATF’s steadfast commitment to ensuring public safety in Michigan by identifying and holding anyone accountable who illegally acquires and/or possesses a firearm.” ATF Detroit Special Agent in Charge James Deir “Our highly experienced Special Agents, utilized unique information and intelligence programs working side by side our local law enforcement, and U.S. Attorney partners which was critical to the success of today’s case.” Sentencing is scheduled for September 14, 2023. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara Hindelang and Catherine Morris.


title: Dearborn Heights Doctor Pleads Guilty to $925,000 Fraud Scheme

body_text: DETROIT – A Dearborn Heights doctor pleaded guilty today to defrauding Medicare of more than $925,000 in health care payments, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison. Ison was joined in the announcement by Mario Pinto, Special Agent in Charge, United States Department of Health and Human Services – Office of Inspector General, and James A. Tarasca, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Fares Yasin, age 59, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Stephen J. Murphy, III. According to court records, Yasin operated Michigan Home Visiting Physicians, in Dearborn, Michigan. Beginning in January 2015, Yasin was suspended from submitting claims to Medicare for any services that he rendered. However, during his suspension, Yasin continued to treat Medicare beneficiaries, and then he fraudulently submitted claims to Medicare utilizing the names and identification numbers of other doctors, including co-defendant Nura Yasin, in order to receive reimbursement for the services he rendered. As part of the guilty plea, Yasin agreed to forfeit approximately $367,000 in cash seized by federal agents during the course of the investigation. A sentencing hearing is set for September 14, 2023. Yasin faces up to ten years in federal prison. “After being banned from submitting claims to Medicare, this doctor defrauded the government to continue receiving Medicare reimbursements.” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “Physicians occupy a position of trust in our community, and my office remains committed to prosecuting medical providers who abuse that trust and steal taxpayer dollars.” “Fares Yasin abused his position of trust by treating patients while on suspension and continuing to file claims with Medicare,” said James A. Tarasca, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Detroit Field Office. “The FBI and our law enforcement partners are dedicated to pursuing providers who disregard medical and regulatory requirements in order to line their own pockets.” "Not only did this provider continue to submit claims to Medicare after being suspended from Federal health care programs; he also used his patients' information to try and steal from those programs," said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). "HHS-OIG will continue in our efforts to identify and investigate those who violate the privacy and trust of their patients and steal from taxpayers for selfish financial gain." This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Wayne Pratt and Alison Furtaw.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Settles Disability Discrimination Lawsuit Against Three Michigan State Agencies

body_text: Detroit, MI – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan has reached a settlement with the Michigan Department of Treasury, the Michigan Civil Service Commission, and the State of Michigan’s Office of State Employer to resolve a disability discrimination lawsuit. The lawsuit is based on a disability discrimination claim made by an employee of the Michigan Department of Treasury. In the lawsuit, the U.S. Attorney’s Office describes how the employee needed to complete a medical treatment during work hours and submitted a reasonable accommodation request to use an empty office space for a short time each day. After initially allowing the employee to do so, the Michigan Department of Treasury revoked the accommodation, denying her subsequent requests and requiring the employee to travel back and forth from home during the workday to complete the procedure, until she filed a charge with the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission. The lawsuit also describes the roles that the Michigan Civil Service Commission and the Office of State Employer play in the reasonable accommodation process for numerous other state agencies. Under the terms of the settlement agreement, the Michigan Department of Treasury will pay $40,000 in damages to the employee’s estate. As noted in the settlement agreement, the Michigan Civil Service Commission recently revised statewide rules and regulations for employees’ reasonable accommodations. Additionally, the settlement agreement requires the Michigan Department of Treasury, the Michigan Civil Service Commission, and the Office of State Employer to review and revise their respective ADA policies, practices, procedures, and documents. Supervisors at the Michigan Department of Treasury must receive periodic training on the ADA and these revised policies. Staff at the Michigan Civil Service Commission and the Office of State Employer who are involved in reviewing, evaluating, or making decisions on reasonable accommodation requests must attend the same training programs. “At the heart of this case are the experiences of one employee, who found herself struggling with both a serious health condition and her employer,” said Dawn N. Ison, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan. “Unfortunately, the employee passed away before the case resolved, but we commend the state agencies involved for taking steps to address her individual case and their commitment to revising broader policies and procedures that will help protect the rights of other state employees who have disabilities.” The case was brought by Assistant U.S. Attorney Shannon Ackenhausen, Acting Chief of the Civil Rights Unit. The full and fair enforcement of the ADA is a priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan and the Disability Rights Section of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. The Civil Rights Unit of the U.S. Attorney’s Office was established in 2010 with the mission of prioritizing federal civil rights enforcement. For more information on the Office’s civil rights efforts, including a copy of the court’s opinion and order, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-edmi/programs/civil-rights . Individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination or experienced a civil rights violation can submit a complaint with the U.S. Attorney’s Office by email at usamie.civilrights@usdoj.gov or by phone at (313) 226-9151. Complaints can also be submitted to the Civil Rights Division through its complaint portal .


title: Former elementary school teacher sentenced for sexually abusing children

component: USAO - Georgia, Northern

body_text: ATLANTA - Stefan Zappey has been sentenced to federal prison for sexually abusing four of his former elementary school students near Stuttgart, Germany. “Zappey abused a critical position of trust as an elementary school teacher and sexually abused multiple students,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “His crimes were horrific, and the community is safer now that he no longer has access to children.” “Zappey presented himself as a dedicated teacher, but in reality, he is the most dangerous type of predator, an educator who uses his position of trust to gain access to children and victimize them for his own sick gratification,” said Keri Farley, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “The FBI remains committed to protecting children and is thankful for the law enforcement partnerships that make it possible to stop people like Zappey from victimizing anyone else.” “The successful prosecution of Stefan Zappey demonstrates the Justice Department’s commitment to prosecuting U.S. citizens who prey on young and vulnerable children regardless of where and when the crimes occurred,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Zappey’s offenses are especially egregious because he was entrusted with teaching the children of our brave service members overseas. The courage of the victims and the perseverance of investigators and prosecutors ensured that Zappey’s offenses were exposed and will prevent him from abusing even more children.” “Victimizing and preying on DoD dependents is unacceptable,” said Ryan Hall, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division’s Europe Field Office. “Army CID will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate these crimes and bring the perpetrators to justice.” According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges and other information presented in court: Stefan Zappey sexually abused four of his former elementary school students between 2006 and 2010. At the time, Zappey was employed by the Department of Defense Education Activity (DODEA) federal school system as a first- through third-grade teacher at Patch Elementary school. The school is located on a U.S. military installation near Stuttgart, Germany. Specifically, in 2019, Army criminal investigators were notified that one of Zappey’s former students reported that Zappey touched her inappropriately under her clothing when she was a student at Patch Elementary in 2009 and 2010. An investigation that followed revealed that four of Zappey’s former students reported that Zappey placed his hand inside their underwear and directly touched their genitals on multiple occasions. The victims were between six and eight years old and were elementary school students at the time of the sexual abuse. At trial, other students and faculty members of Patch Elementary reported that Zappey frequently hugged students, had them sit on his lap, and touched their backs and stomachs under their clothes. Stefan Zappey, 57, of Stuttgart, Germany, has been sentenced to life in prison, and to pay a special assessment of $800.00. Zappey was found guilty by a jury on January 18, 2023. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and U.S. Army Criminal Investigative Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leanne M. Marek and Trial Attorney Eduardo Palomo of the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section prosecuted the case. This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In February 2006, the Attorney General launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices around the country, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


title: Monroe Man Sentenced for $1.1 Million COVID-19 Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Louisiana, Western

body_text: MONROE, La. - Michael Ansezell Tolliver , 57, of Monroe, Louisiana , has been sentenced by United States District Judge Terry A. Doughty for money laundering in connection with a fraudulent scheme to obtain more than $1.1 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program loans. Tolliver was sentenced to 120 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release. In addition, Tolliver was ordered to pay $1,114,724 in restitution. “The significant sentence handed down today demonstrates that those who steal from COVID-19 relief programs for personal gain will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite, Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “We remain committed to rooting out bad actors who took advantage of federal programs meant to help those small businesses truly in need.” “This defendant stole over $1 million through fraudulent means and used those funds to support his own personal lifestyle, taking from those whose legitimate businesses were suffering from losses due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Brandon B. Brown. “Federal programs such as these are set up to help those in need, not to benefit those who do not. It is a priority for our office to prosecute those who obtain these benefits illegally. We look forward to continued collaboration with the DOJ’s fraud section in aggressively investigating similar crimes related to the COVID-19 pandemic.” In December 2022, Tolliver pled guilty to one count of money laundering. According to court documents, Tolliver submitted nine fraudulent PPP and EIDL Program loan applications on behalf of several purported companies that Tolliver owned, including Tolliver Oil & Gas Corporation of Louisiana, Inc. and Tolliver Petroleum Corporation of Louisiana. Tolliver falsified information in the loan applications and supporting documents, including falsely claiming that some of his businesses had over 100 employees. He also submitted falsified federal tax returns. “Mr. Tolliver chose greed over compassion by fraudulently obtaining funds from the PPP and EIDL programs established to assist employers severely impacted by the pandemic,” said James E. Dorsey, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Tolliver’s sentence today should stand as a warning to those who fraudulently received or may have attempted to fraudulently receive funds intended to help businesses during the COVID epidemic.” “This result reveals the excellence achieved through the combined efforts of the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to uncover and forcefully respond to PPP and EIDL fraud,” said Special Counsel Peggy Delinois Hamilton of the SBA. “SBA is strongly committed to identifying and aggressively pursuing instances of fraud perpetrated by those who took advantage of small business emergency relief programs. We applaud the work that our law enforcement partners have done to ensure fraudsters are held accountable.” In total, Tolliver sought more than $7.6 million in PPP and EIDL Program loans and obtained more than $1.1 million. Tolliver then laundered and misused the loan proceeds, including by transferring the funds to personal bank accounts and purchasing luxury goods. Authorities seized approximately $128,500 from bank accounts, as well as a 2020 Cadillac CT5 sedan, a 2021 GMC Sierra 1500 truck, two Tissot watches, two Tag Heuer watches, and three Honda all-terrain vehicles. The case was investigated by the IRS-CI and SBA and prosecuted by Assistant Chief Justin M. Woodard of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth D. Reeg of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana. The Fraud Section leads the department’s prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the PPP. Since the PPP began, Fraud Section attorneys have prosecuted more than 100 defendants in more than 70 criminal cases. The Fraud Section has also seized more than $65 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at https://www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/ppp-fraud . On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866‑720‑5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . # # #


title: Goldsboro Drug Dealer Sentenced to 21 Years in Prison

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: WILMINGTON, N.C. – Johnathan Aquavious Heath, a/k/a “Booty,” age 43, of Goldsboro was sentenced to 252 months in prison for his leadership role in a drug trafficking organization bringing significant quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine, crack, heroin, and fentanyl in the Goldsboro area. “There are serious consequences for those that are trafficking dangerous and deadly narcotics in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “This defendant will be spending the next twenty-plus years behind bars for his crimes.” According to court documents and information presented in court, in 2019, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in Wilmington, North Carolina received information that Heath was a leader of a large-scale drug trafficking organization operating in Goldsboro and distributing significant quantities of crystal methamphetamine, fentanyl, heroin, powder cocaine, and cocaine base (crack). Based on the investigation, law enforcement learned that Heath maintained several “trap houses” or “stash houses” in Goldsboro and employed people to run the stash houses and he also employed runners, often times drug users, to hand deliver drugs. During the course of the investigation, law enforcement gathered information regarding this organization from multiple confidential sources and cooperating defendants, conducted surveillance, and also conducted controlled purchases of narcotics from Heath, as well as those working for him. Over the course of the conspiracy, Heath was responsible for assisting in the distribution of at least 119.54 grams of cocaine, 401.62 grams cocaine base, 373.608 grams of actual methamphetamine, 1,500 grams of heroin, and 1,474.18 grams of fentanyl. On June 7, 2022, Heath pled guilty to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute Fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine, 5 kilograms or More of Cocaine, and 280 grams or More of Cocaine Base and Distribution of Fifty (50) grams or more of methamphetamine. Four additional defendants have previously been charged and convicted in this investigation: Aratika Omhaya Anderson, a/k/a “Tika” (5:21-CR-314-M-2): pled guilty on October 19, 2021, to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute Fifty (50) Grams or More of Methamphetamine and Distribution of 5 grams or More of Methamphetamine, aiding and abetting and was sentenced to 88 months in prison. Victoria Christine Taylor (5:21-CR-314-M-3): pled guilty on March 8, 2022, to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute a quantity of crack cocaine and was sentenced to 80 months in prison. Richard Ronald Harris, III (5:21-CR-314-M-5): pled guilty on October 6, 2021, to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute Fifty (50) Grams or More of Methamphetamine and Distribution of Five Grams or more of Methamphetamine, Aiding and Abetting. Harris was sentenced to 70 months in prison. Lelia Inez Harris (5:21-CR-314-M-5): pled guilty on November 16, 2021, to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possess With Intent to Distribute Five (5) Grams or More of Methamphetamine, Distribution of Five Grams or more of Methamphetamine, Aiding and Abetting. Harris was sentenced to 55 months in prison. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina, made the announcement after sentencing by Chief Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) in Wilmington, North Carolina and the Goldsboro Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Nucci prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for case number 5:21-CR-00314-M.


title: Auto Zone robber convicted

body_text: HOUSTON – A 31-year-old Houston resident has entered a guilty plea to two counts of Hobbs Act robberies as well as discharging a firearm during one of the crimes, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Dominique Andrews robbed two Auto Zone locations in Houston. On Feb. 4, 2022, Andrews entered the Auto Zone on Cullen Boulevard and robbed an employee at gunpoint. He produced a silver semi-automatic firearm and demanded money from the victim. Fearing for her life, the employee complied. Andrews also took two car scanners. During the robbery, he discharged a round from his firearm. The same day, Andrews went to another Auto Zone on Telephone Road. He again produced a silver semi-automatic firearm and demanded money from the employee victim. Andrews discharged several rounds from the firearm he was carrying while in the commission of the robbery. U.S. District Judge David Hittner accepted the plea and set sentencing for July 27. At that time, Andrews faces up to 20 years for the robberies as well as a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life for the firearms charge which must be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed. Both charges also carry a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Houston Police Department conducted the investigation. This case is an example of coordination between law enforcement who are part of the Houston Law Enforcement Violent Crime Initiative which combines personnel and resources from numerous federal, state and local agencies. The goal is to proactively fight and reduce violent crime across the Greater Houston area by targeting the region’s most violent offenders, augmenting investigative and prosecutorial efforts and enhancing training, public awareness and education. It stems from the Project Safe Neighborhoods ( PSN ) Program. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Porto is prosecuting the case.


title: Plaquemine Woman Sentenced to 44 Months for Pandemic Benefits Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Louisiana, Middle

body_text: United States Attorney Ronald C. Gathe, Jr. announced that U.S. District Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Lestreonia Renee Rodrigue, age 28, of Plaquemine, Louisiana, to 44 months in federal prison following her conviction for mail fraud. The Court further sentenced Rodrigue to serve three years of supervised release following her term of imprisonment and ordered her to pay $663,259 in restitution. Between July 2020 and September 2021, Rodrigue submitted fraudulent claims for unemployment insurance benefits in California in her name and in the names of other individuals. Rodrigue also submitted fraudulent claims for Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) benefits in the names of fictitious businesses and based on fictitious business profits and losses. Through her unemployment insurance scheme, Rodrigue falsely claimed that she and others were working in California prior to the coronavirus pandemic and that they lost their employment due to the pandemic. Rodrigue obtained names, birth dates, and Social Security numbers of others and submitted fraudulent claims for unemployment insurance benefits in their names, with and without their knowledge. Rodrigue captured people’s identifying information through social media. Upon submitting the claims and receiving the funds, she either gave a portion of the funds to others or kept all the funds for herself. Through her scheme, Rodrigue fraudulently obtained hundreds of thousands of dollars in unemployment insurance debit cards in the mail. Rodrigue also devised a scheme to defraud lenders and the United States, through the Small Business Administration, by filing false and fraudulent applications for PPP funds. In furtherance of the scheme, Rodrigue submitted, or had others submit, forged bank statements, false tax documents, and made misrepresentations in her PPP applications. Rodrigue also falsely reported bank cards stolen or lost so that she would receive new cards with additional pandemic benefit funds. Throughout the course of the fraudulent schemes, Rodrigue caused over $500,000 in unemployment insurance debit cards to be mailed to her addresses, to which she and others were not entitled. Additionally, Rodrigue caused $20,833 to be deposited into her bank account to which she was not entitled. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Department of Labor-OIG and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Edward H. Warner.


title: Dallas Woman Pleads Guilty in $7 Million COVID-19 Testing Fraud

component: USAO - Texas, Northern

body_text: A Dallas woman pleaded guilty today to scamming insurers out of more than $7 million for COVID-19 testing that was never actually performed, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton. Connie Jo Clampitt, 52, was indicted in December. She pleaded guilty Tuesday to conspiracy to commit healthcare fraud before U.S. Magistrate Judge Irma Carrillo Ramirez. “As the country struggled to cope with a devastating pandemic, this defendant conspired to swindle insurance providers out of millions of dollars. She exploited the healthcare system when it was at its most vulnerable, indirectly raising healthcare costs for everyday Americans. We are proud to hold her accountable for her role in this conspiracy, and look forward to proving our case against her co-conspirators in court,” said U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton. According to plea papers, Ms. Clampitt admitted that she and her co-conspirators accessed private patient information – including names, dates of birth, and insurance subscriber numbers – through various clinics where one defendant worked as a contract lab technician. They then used the patient information to submit claims to insurance providers – including Blue Cross Blue Shield, Cigna, United Healthcare, Aetna, Humana, and Molina Health Care – for COVID-19 testing that was never performed. (The patients had not requested COVID-19 testing, nor were they aware their information was being used to submit claims.) Ms. Clampitt admitted that the “labs” at which the co-conspirators claimed the testing occurred, including TC Diagnostics, ME Diagnostics, and PHR Diagnostics, were, in fact, shell entities that never operated as labs. Collectively, these three entities submitted approximately $30 million in claims and were paid more than $7 million in reimbursements for fake testing. Ms. Clampitt now faces up to five years in federal prison. According to the terms of her plea agreement, she has agreed to a $7.29 million forfeiture money judgment and will forfeit a number of items seized during the investigation, including $2.5 million in funds from numerous bank accounts, two residences, six vehicles, and six luxury watches. Also charged in the scheme are Terrance Barnard, 39, William Paul Gray, 49, and Donn Hogg, 37. Mr. Barnard, Mr. Gray, and Mr. Hogg are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. The Dallas Regional Office of the United States Department of Labor – Employee Benefits Security Administration, the Dallas Office of the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, the Texas Department of Insurance Fraud Unit's Fort Worth Field Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Dallas Field Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Renee Hunter is prosecuting the case; Assistant U.S. Attorney Dimitri Rocha is handling the forfeiture. For more information about the Justice Department’s response to wrongdoing connected to the COVID-19 pandemic, visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus.


title: Pittsburgh Man Sentenced to 130 Months for Committing Heroin and Fentanyl Trafficking and Firearm Crimes

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, PA – Michael Ginyard was sentenced to 130 months in prison for committing heroin and fentanyl trafficking and firearm crimes, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Ginyard, age 36 of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge Joy Flowers Conti. Judge Conti ordered Ginyard to serve six years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller prosecuted this case on behalf of the United States. The Pittsburgh Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Penn Hills Police Department conducted the investigation in this case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: St. Louis County Man Admits Smuggling Wildlife

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A man from St. Louis County, Missouri on Tuesday admitted smuggling regulated wildlife into the United States. Michael Amato, 68, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to a felony charge of fraudulently importing protected wildlife. He also agreed to forfeit more than six dozen taxidermy bird mounts that were seized from his home on Sept. 1, 2021 as well as bird mounts still in his possession, including owls, buzzards, hawks, eagles, harriers and cranes. Amato admitted as part of his plea that he and unnamed associates smuggled wildlife into the United States from Malta, England, Germany and other countries without declaring that wildlife and without obtaining the permits required by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora ( CITES ). From February 2018 through September 2020, Amato smuggled in 67 different birds. Some are listed as threatened with extinction, others could become so if their trade is not regulated. Amato told his international associates how to fill out export/import forms and list the wildlife to avoid law enforcement detection, his plea says. Amato is scheduled to be sentenced August 8. Both sides have agreed to recommend three years of probation and a $5,000 donation to the World Bird Sanctuary to represent a portion of the market value of the protected wildlife seized from his home. The case was investigated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dianna Collins is prosecuting the case.


title: Georgia woman sentenced to prison, ordered to pay more than $1 million in restitution for COVID fraud

component: USAO - Georgia, Southern

body_text: SAVANNAH, GA: A Georgia woman has been sentenced to prison and ordered to repay more than $1 million in fraudulently obtained funds from a COVID-19 small business relief program. Salmat Deyji , 26, of Stockbridge, Ga., was sentenced to 26 months in prison after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Money Laundering, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood also ordered Deyji to pay $1,073,307 in restitution to the government, and to serve three years of supervised release upon completion of her prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. “Congress provided substantial funding to assist struggling small businesses during the COVID-19 pandemic, and unfortunately scam artists found myriad ways to enrich themselves through those funds,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “Salmat Deyji not only helped herself to undeserved assistance, but also profited by conducting fraudulent activity on behalf of others. She’s now being held accountable for this substantial theft.” The 2020 Coronavirus Aid, Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act provided more than $650 billion in funding for qualifying small businesses facing financial challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, including grants available through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). In her plea agreement, Deyji admitted to filling out and submitting fraudulent PPP loan applications for herself and other individuals, in the Southern District of Georgia and elsewhere, who otherwise did not meet the qualifications for the program. She assisted in filing these applications using fabricated IRS forms and tax records which she created. Her scheme included soliciting information from U.S. Army service members as well as friends and family who she recruited to receive PPP funding in exchange for kickbacks. In total, the scheme caused the disbursement of more than $1 million in fraudulent CARES Act grants to more than three dozen applicants. At least six others who participated in the scheme pled guilty to related charges, with sentences ranging from probation to 22 months in prison along with substantial orders of restitution. “Today’s sentencing should serve as a stark reminder that our agents, and those of our partner law enforcement agencies, are relentless in their pursuit of those who choose to defraud the government,” said Special Agent in Charge Scott Moreland of the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, Major Procurement Fraud Field Office. “Those who illegally utilize government assistance for their own advantage undermine the efficacy and integrity of programs designed to support those who are in need of government aid,” stated Special Agent in Charge Darrin K. Jones, Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Southeast Field Office. “DCIS and our investigative partners are committed to bringing those who exploit these programs for selfish gain to justice.” “During the COVID-19 pandemic, the Paycheck Protection Program was enacted by Congress in response to helping businesses who were experiencing economic uncertainty,” said James E. Dorsey, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Unfortunately, people like Deyji and her co-conspirators fraudulently applied for and obtained those funds for their personal benefit. IRS-Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners will continue pursuing those who defrauded the government and stole from others in need of economic relief.” “The U.S. Secret Service’s investigative collaboration with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners again demonstrates our commitment to bringing to justice those who choose to exploit the systems created to help those affected by COVID-19 pandemic,” said Craig Reno, Resident Agent in Charge of the Savannah Resident Office of the U.S. Secret Service. “The results of these cases should serve as a deterrent to fraudsters that you will be held accountable to fullest extent of the law.” Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . The case was investigated by the Department of the Army Criminal Investigation Division, the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations, and the U.S. Secret Service, and prosecuted for the United States of America by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew A. Josephson.


title: Violent Felon Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Robbery

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A Cedar Rapids man who attempted to rob a marijuana dealer and later shot at least twenty‑four times at an apartment building was sentenced on May 1, 2023, to 15 years in federal prison. Lucas Frank Floyd, age 28, from Cedar Rapids, Iowa, received the prison term after a December 29, 2022 guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery. In a plea agreement, Floyd admitted that, on March 1, 2021, he agreed with others to rob a Cedar Rapids marijuana dealer. Floyd and two others, all carrying firearms, broke into the marijuana dealer’s home and demanded marijuana and money from the dealer. When the dealer told Floyd that he did not have any marijuana or money, Floyd pistol‑whipped the dealer, causing bodily injury to the dealer. Floyd and the two other individuals then left the dealer’s home without taking anything. On March 8, 2021, law enforcement officers conducted a traffic stop on a car in which Floyd was seated in the front‑passenger seat. During the traffic stop, Floyd provided false names and dates of births to officers. During a search of the car, officers recovered three firearms, extended magazines, marijuana, and a black ski mask. The next day, on March 9, 2021, law enforcement officers searched Floyd’s residence and recovered another firearm. Floyd had previously been convicted of felony offenses in September 2011, May 2012, and December 2012, and he was forbidden from possessing firearms. Floyd also admitted that, on June 5, 2022, he fired at least twenty‑four shots at an occupied apartment building, striking the apartments in the apartment building at least twenty‑three times, with seventeen bullet holes found inside one of the apartments. The next day, law enforcement officers attempted to arrest Floyd when he jumped out of an apartment window and attempted to flee. Officers eventually arrested Floyd and they recovered the firearm Floyd used to shoot at the apartment building the night before. Floyd was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Floyd was sentenced to 180 months’ imprisonment, and he was ordered to make $2,500 in restitution to the owner of the apartment building he shot. He must also serve a three‑year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. 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. Floyd is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dillan Edwards and investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Cedar Rapids Police Department. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 22-CR-00050. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Registered Nurse Sentenced to 4 Years in Prison for Tampering With and Stealing Painkillers from Detroit Hospital

body_text: DETROIT - A registered nurse was sentenced today to four years in prison after having pleaded guilty to tampering with vials and syringes of a liquid painkiller at the Detroit hospital where she worked, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison. Joining Ison in the announcement was Ronne Malham, Special Agent in Charge of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), Office of Criminal Investigations, Chicago Field Office. Mary Cheatham, 42, of Ypsilanti, Michigan, was sentenced by United States District Judge Mark Goldsmith. According to court records, in 2020, Cheatham was employed as a licensed registered nurse at a local hospital in Detroit. Cheatham admitted she tampered with vials and syringes containing the painkiller hydromorphone, which she knew were intended to be administered to patients for the purpose of pain relief in the critical care unit of the hospital. She removed the hydromorphone from the vials and syringes, replaced the hydromorphone with saline solution, and returned the adulterated containers knowing they could be administered to patients at the hospital. In total, Cheatham stole 116 vials and syringes of hydromorphone, which she then used on herself. “Patients in a hospital should be able to rely on receiving their needed medications,” said U.S. Attorney Ison. “We will not hesitate to prosecute health care workers who steal drugs and put patients at serious risk of harm.” The investigation was conducted by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Regina R. McCullough.


title: Hospers, Iowa Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Meth and Gun Convictions

body_text: A man who conspired to distribute methamphetamine and illegally possessed firearms was sentenced on May 1, 2023, to 25 years’ imprisonment. Robert Nicholas Hansen, 43, from Hospers, Iowa, was convicted by a jury of one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine; two counts of distribution of methamphetamine; and one count of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm (1 gun) on November 3, 2022. On May 18, 2022, Hansen was convicted by a jury of two counts of being a prohibited person in possession of a firearm (17 guns). The jury found that, from January 2017 through January 2021, Hansen was involved in a conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of pure methamphetamine. Evidence at trial showed that Hansen was involved with several other co-conspirators in the acquisition and distribution of more than 100 pounds of methamphetamine. Evidence further showed that on two separate occasions, Hansen distributed one-half pound of methamphetamine to individuals cooperating with law enforcement and during one of the transactions was found to possess three separate bundles of cash, totaling $14,000. The jury verdict included findings that Hansen’s methamphetamine distributions occurred within 1000 feet of Hospers Elementary School and South Side Park in Hospers, Iowa. The jury also found that Hansen illegally possessed a .223 caliber AR-15 style rifle. At trial, evidence was presented that Hansen had others store methamphetamine and guns for him when the “heat was on” him from law enforcement. At sentencing, Hansen’s illegal involvement with three other guns was also presented. During Hansen’s other trial, the jury found that, from 2017 through November 2017, Hansen illegally possessed seventeen firearms. At sentencing, Hansen’s illegal involvement with four other guns was also presented. Hansen was previously convicted of possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver in 2003 in the Iowa District Court for Sioux County. Sentencing was held before United States District Court Chief Judge Leonard T. Strand. Hansen was sentenced to 25 years’ imprisonment and must serve a 10-year term of supervised release following the imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. Hansen remains in custody of the United States Marshal until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Shawn Wehde and Patrick Greenwood and was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Sioux County Sheriff’s Office, the Orange City Police Department, the Plymouth County Sheriff’s Office, the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement and the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file numbers are 21-4014 and 21-4054. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Los Angeles Case Part of Largest International Operation Against Darknet Trafficking of Fentanyl and Opioids

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: WASHINGTON – The Department of Justice, and its Joint Criminal Opioid and Darknet Enforcement (JCODE) team and international partners, today announced the results of Operation SpecTor, which included 288 arrests – the most ever for any JCODE operation and nearly double that of the prior operation. Law enforcement also conducted more seizures than any prior operation, including 117 firearms, 850 kilograms of drugs that include 64 kilograms of fentanyl or fentanyl-laced narcotics, and $53.4 million in cash and virtual currencies. Operation SpecTor was a coordinated international effort spanning three continents to disrupt fentanyl and opioid trafficking on the darknet, or dark web. The operation was conducted across the United States, Europe, and South America, and was a result of the continued partnership between JCODE and foreign law enforcement against the illegal sale of drugs and other illicit goods and services on the darknet. Operation SpecTor builds on the successes of prior years’ operations and takedowns of marketplaces, which result in the seizure of darknet infrastructure providing investigators across the world with investigative leads and evidence. JCODE and Europol’s European Cybercrime Centre (EC3) continue to compile intelligence packages to identify entities of interest. These leads allow U.S. and international law enforcement agencies to identify darknet drug vendors and buyers, resulting in a series of coordinated, but separate, law enforcement investigations, resulting in the statistics announced today. This year’s law enforcement operation was accompanied by a public awareness campaign called Operation ProtecTor aimed to promote public safety and spread awareness of resources for those struggling with substance abuse and who go through extreme lengths to obtain opioids. JCODE has worked with every FBI field office in the country to facilitate outreach to households that have purchased individual amounts of opioids from the darknet. The interagency efforts are aimed to both identify those who use anonymizing technologies to purchase illicit narcotics and direct them to available resources. “Operation SpecTor was a coordinated international law enforcement effort, spanning three continents, to disrupt drug trafficking on the dark web and represents the most funds seized and the highest number of arrests in any coordinated international action led by the Justice Department against drug traffickers on the dark web,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “Our message to criminals on the dark web is this: You can try to hide in the furthest reaches of the internet, but the Justice Department will find you and hold you accountable for your crimes.” “The availability of dangerous substances like fentanyl on dark net marketplaces is helping to fuel the crisis that has claimed far too many American lives,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “That's why we will continue to join forces with our law enforcement partners around the globe to attack this problem together. The FBI is proud to stand with our domestic and foreign partners as we continue to shine that light into the deepest corners of the dark net and hold those accountable who continue to peddle this poison around the world.” “The Sinaloa and Jalisco drug cartels, and the global networks they operate are killing Americans by sending fentanyl into the United States. Their associates distribute this fentanyl into communities across America by every means possible, including the dark web,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “The DEA is committed to shutting down the fentanyl supply chain from beginning to end, and we will relentlessly pursue the associates of these cartels wherever they hide, even in the dark corners of the internet.” “Our coalition of law enforcement authorities across three continents proves that we all do better when we work together,” said Executive Director Catherine De Bolle of Europol. “This operation sends a strong message to criminals on the dark web: international law enforcement has the means and the ability to identify and hold you accountable for your illegal activities, even on the dark web.” “Collaboration with our law enforcement partners is key to combatting fentanyl and opioid trafficking,” said Chief Jim Lee of the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). “Under the JCODE umbrella, law enforcement agencies across the globe have joined forces to take down criminals who use the darknet to buy and sell narcotics. Our team at IRS-CI plays an integral role in these investigations by following the money trail, whether it’s in fiat currency or digital assets on the blockchain.” “The illicit movement of opioids poses a significant threat to public health and safety – whether by known transnational criminal gang members across international borders or anonymously through darknet spaces,” said Senior Official Performing the Duties of Deputy Director P.J. Lechleitner of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). “Our HSI special agents, alongside federal and international partners, continue to aggressively investigate, disrupt, and dismantle networks responsible for trafficking dangerous, deadly narcotics and other contraband across global communities we are charged with protecting. We will continue to pursue bad actors engaged in these crimes to ensure they face justice, while protecting victims from these lethal substances.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service leverages our specialized knowledge of the postal system as part of sophisticated dark web investigations such as Operation SpecTor with great results,” said Chief Postal Inspector Gary R. Barksdale of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “We are committed to taking all necessary actions to combat illicit drugs in the mail. And we thank our law enforcement partners for working with us to achieve this; removing dangerous illicit substances from the mail and American communities saves lives.” “Addressing our nation’s drug overdose crisis and epidemic of substance use disorders is an issue of great concern and remains a top public health priority for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA),” said Commissioner Robert M. Califf, M.D., of the FDA. “The FDA has undertaken strategic and impactful actions to prevent drug overdoses and reduce deaths and is committed to using all of our cyber-resources to shed light on the darkest corners of illicit medical supply chains for the health and safety of all Americans.” Operation SpecTor resulted in over 100 federal operations and prosecutions, including: On Dec. 1, 2022, Anton Peck, 29, of Boca Raton, Florida, was sentenced to 16 years in prison for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin. According to court documents, between May 2021 and May 2022, Peck distributed narcotics from various darknet markets using the vendor profile “Syntropy.” After the transactions were carried out using cryptocurrency, Peck and co-conspirators Kevin Fusco and Vincent Banner mailed parcels containing fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine to cities around the country using the U.S. Postal Service (USPS). Fusco, 35, of West Palm Beach, Florida, was sentenced to 11 years in prison for conspiring to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and methamphetamine. Banner, 31, of Boynton Beach, Florida, is scheduled to be sentenced on June 8 after pleading guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, and heroin. Law enforcement recovered kilogram quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin from business and storage locations in West Palm Beach, Boca Raton, and New York City. Peck possessed a list of more than 6,000 customers living across the United States. The DEA, FBI, USPS Office of Inspector General (USPS-OIG), U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Palm Beach County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida is prosecuting the case. On Nov. 18, 2022, a federal grand jury in Los Angeles returned an indictment charging Christopher Hampton, 36, of Cerritos , California, with heading an organization that obtained bulk fentanyl, operated labs in California that used high-speed pill presses to create fake pills containing fentanyl and methamphetamine, and sold millions of pills to thousands of customers on the darknet. Hampton was named in an 11-count indictment that charges him with various narcotics and weapons offenses that could result in a sentence of life in prison. According to court documents, he was active on at least nine darknet marketplaces where he typically used the moniker “Narco710.” Hampton allegedly sold nearly $2 million worth of narcotics on two of these darknet marketplaces alone. He was arrested on Nov. 2, 2022, at which time federal law enforcement executed search warrants that led to the discovery and seizure of 450 pounds of suspected narcotics; six pill press machines, some of which were capable of producing thousands of pills per hour; and illegal firearms that included assault rifles and a machine gun. Agents later located a storage unit linked to the drug conspiracy and seized over 80 pounds of pressed fentanyl pills, eight guns, and precursor materials to press additional pills. Hampton is scheduled to go on trial on July 25. The FBI JCODE and DEA HIDTA Tactical Diversion Squad investigated the case. Los Angeles-based Assistant United States Attorneys Ian Yanniello and James A. Santiago are prosecuting this case. On May 12, 2022, a federal grand jury in Sacramento returned a two-count indictment charging Holly Adams, 31, and Devlin Hosner, 33, of Indio , California, with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine, and with conspiracy to launder money. According to court documents, Adams and Hosner operated the vendor accounts “igogrrawwr” and “its4real” on the darknet marketplaces ToRReZ and Darkode, respectively, through which they sold tens of thousands of counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl in exchange for cryptocurrency. Adams and Hosner shipped these fentanyl pills to buyers throughout the United States, using the USPS, UPS, and other means of delivery. In the course of their conspiracy, Adams and Hosner finalized over 1,100 transactions of narcotics and other contraband and received more than $800,000 in cryptocurrency. Federal law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a hotel in Riverside county where Adams and Hosner were residing and recovered more than 10,000 counterfeit oxycodone pills as well as approximately 60 grams of methamphetamine. The IRS-CI, HSI, FBI, USPIS, and USPS-OIG investigated the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California is prosecuting the case. Operation SpecTor was a collaborative initiative across JCODE members, including the Department of Justice, FBI, DEA, USPIS, HSI, IRS-CI, ATF, Naval Criminal Investigative Service (NCIS), and the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations. This operation was aided by non-operational supporting participation from the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). Local, state, and other federal agencies also contributed to Operation SpecTor investigations through task force participation and regional partnerships. The investigations leading to Operation SpecTor were significantly aided by support and coordination by the Justice Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF); multi-agency Special Operations Division; the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section’s Digital Currency Initiative, Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, and Fraud Section; the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs; Europol and its Dark Web team; and international partners. The international partners include Eurojust; Austria’s Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt); France’s Directorate-General of Customs and Indirect Taxes (Douane); Germany’s Federal Criminal Police Office (Bundeskriminalamt), Central Criminal Investigation Department of Oldenburg (Zentrale KriminaIinspektion Oldenburg), General Prosecutor’s Office in Frankfurt/Main - Cybercrime Center (Generalstaatsanwaltschaft Frankfurt/Main, Zentralstelle zur Bekämpfung der Internetkriminalität), Berlin Police (Polizei Berlin), various police departments (Dienststellen der Länderpolizeien), German Customs Investigation (Zollfahndungsämter); the Netherland’s National Police (Politie); Poland’s Central Cybercrime Bureau (Centralne Biuro Zwalczania Cyberprzestępczości); Brazil’s Civil Police of the State of Piauí (Polícia Civil do Estado do Piauí), Civil Police of the Federal District (Polícia Civil do Distrito Federal), National Secretariat of Public Security - Directorate of Integrated Operations and Intelligence - Cyber Operations Laboratory (Laboratório de Operações Cibernéticas da Diretoria de Operações Integradas e de Inteligência - Secretaria Nacional de Segurança Pública); Switzerland’s Zurich Cantonal Police (Kantonspolizei Zürich) and Public Prosecutor’s Office II of the Canton of Zurich (Staatsanwaltschaft II); and the United Kingdom’s National Crime Agency (NCA) and National Police Chief’s Council (NPCC). Federal investigations and prosecutions are being conducted in more than 30 federal districts, including the District of Arizona, the Central District of California, the Eastern District of California, the Northern District of California, the Southern District of California, the District of Colorado, the District of Connecticut, the District of Columbia, the District of Delaware, the Southern District of Florida, the Northern District of Georgia, the Southern District of Indiana, the Eastern District of Kentucky, the District of Maryland, the District of Massachusetts, the Eastern District of Michigan, the Western District of Michigan, the Eastern District of Missouri, the Western District of Missouri, the District of Nebraska, the District of Nevada, the District of New Jersey, the Eastern District of New York, the Southern District of New York, the Western District of North Carolina, the Northern District of Ohio, the Southern District of Ohio, the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the Middle District of Pennsylvania, the District of South Dakota, the Eastern District of Tennessee, the Eastern District of Texas, the Northern District of Texas, the Southern District of Texas, the District of Vermont, the Eastern District of Virginia, and the Western District of Washington. The Justice Department established the FBI-led JCODE team to lead and coordinate government efforts to detect, disrupt, and dismantle major criminal enterprises reliant on the darknet for trafficking opioids and other illicit narcotics, along with identifying and dismantling their supply chains. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Ocean County Man Admits Money Laundering

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – An Ocean County, New Jersey, man today admitted that he illegally laundered the proceeds of a wire fraud scheme, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced. Eli Schamovic, 41, of Lakewood, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Kevin McNulty to an information charging him with money laundering. According to documents filed in the case and statements made in court: Schamovic made or caused others to make numerous fraudulent financial transactions through at least two entities that Schamovic formed and established as merchants that used multiple credit card processing companies. These transactions resulted in more than $1 million in losses to a multinational financial services corporation that specialized in payment cards. Schamovic laundered portions of the proceeds of this scheme, including through an approximately $500,000 wire transfer from a bank account under his control. The charge of money laundering is punishable by a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine $250,000, or twice the gross profits or gross loss suffered by the victims, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 8, 2023. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited postal inspectors with the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Newark, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, Philadelphia Division; special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark, and special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Tammy Tomlins in Newark, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew Kogan of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Cybercrime Unit in Newark. schamovic.information.pdf


title: Solano County Hells Angels Member Sentenced to 3 Years in Prison for Firearms Offenses

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Michael Mahoney, 30, of Fairfield, was sentenced today to three years and one month in prison for possessing a firearm with an obliterated or altered serial number and possessing an unregistered short-barreled shotgun, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, on Dec. 8, 2021, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Mahoney’s home as part of an investigation into a brutal beating at the clubhouse for the Vallejo chapter of the Hells Angels Motorcycle Club. In October 2021, two different victims—both of whom were members of a different motorcycle club that is considered a “puppet” (or subordinate) club of the Hells Angels—were beaten by Mahoney and other club members based on perceived infractions of the Hells Angels’ rules. During the December 2021 search of Mahoney’s Fairfield home, law enforcement found several firearms, including a Smith & Wesson .38-caliber revolver with a serial number that had been scratched off, as well as a Sears & Roebuck 12-gauge shotgun with a barrel that had been sawn off to approximately 12.75 inches in length. Mahoney had not registered his ownership of this short-barreled shotgun with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record, as required by federal law. This case was the product of an investigation by the Solano County District Attorney’s Office, the Solano County Sheriff’s Office, the Vacaville Police Department, the Vallejo Police Department, the Fairfield Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Aaron D. Pennekamp and Jason Hitt 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 U.S. Department of Justice launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Bergen County Man Charged in Car Theft and Fraudulent Resale Scheme

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A former Bergen County, New Jersey, man has been charged with running a large, multistate car theft and fraud ring, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced. Warren Guerrier, 46, formerly of Hackensack, New Jersey, is charged by indictment with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, five counts of wire fraud, and one count of aggravated identity theft. He was arraigned today before U.S. District Judge William J. Martini in Newark federal court and pleaded not guilty. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: From November 2016 to June 2020, Guerrier and several conspirators acting at his direction orchestrated a scheme to steal and then fraudulently sell vehicles to unsuspecting buyers. They identified vehicles to steal, then photographed, tracked, and advertised them for sale on the Internet. At the sales, the buyer victims were provided with electronically programmed keys and falsified certificates of title for the stolen vehicles in exchange for a negotiated purchase price in cash. Buyer victims also were provided with fraudulent identity documents utilized by conspirators to obscure their true identities. The scheme involved the theft of at least 40 stolen vehicles, approximately 30 of which were sold by Guerrier and his conspirators to buyer victims, and as a result of which Guerrier and his conspirators collected approximately $285,000. The conspiracy to commit wire fraud count and each count of wire fraud is punishable by a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine. The aggravated identity theft count is punishable by a sentence of two years in prison, which must be served consecutively to any other term imposed, and a maximum $250,000 fine. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited the FBI Newark Violent Incident Crimes Task Force, Garrett Mountain Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark and Special Agent in Charge Douglas Williams in New Orleans, with the investigation leading to the charges. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica R. Ecker of the General Crimes Unit and Kendall Randolph of the Organized Crime/Gangs Unit in Newark. The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. guerrier.indictment.pdf


title: Butler Man Sentenced to 8 Years of Incarceration for Drug and Gun Crimes

body_text: PITTSBURGH, PA - A former resident of Butler City, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to eight years of incarceration and three years of supervised release on his convictions for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. United States District Judge Christy Criswell Wiegand imposed the sentence on Joshua McKenzie, age 38. According to information presented to the court, in and around March 2020 and continuing until May 2020, McKenzie conspired to possess with intent to distribute and distributed fentanyl. In addition, McKenzie, a previously convicted felon, did knowingly possess a firearm in furtherance of this drug trafficking crime. Assistant United States Attorney Michael L. Mitchell prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. Acting United States Attorney Rivetti commended the Butler County District Attorney’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives for conducting the investigation that led to the prosecution of McKenzie. 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: Gloucester County Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: CAMDEN, N.J. – A Gloucester County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 120 months in prison, 10 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $73,000 in restitution for possessing images and videos of child sexual abuse. Joseph Cooper, 76, of Williamstown, New Jersey, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Renée Marie Bumb on Sept. 13, 2022, to an information charging him with one count of possession of child pornography.


title: Everett Man Indicted for Sex Trafficking

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A federal grand jury returned a four-count indictment today charging an Everett man with sex trafficking four female victims. Trevor Jones, 45, was indicted on four counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion. Jones was arrested on related state charges on March 23, 2023 and has remained in state custody since. He will appear in federal court in Boston at a later date. “The allegations against Mr. Jones are incredibly serious and disturbing. As alleged, he specifically targeted victims suffering with substance use disorder, intensified their drug dependency to gain control, violently forced them to engage in sex acts for his own profit and, in some instances, used sexual violence to ensure their compliance,” said United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins. “Sex trafficking is a very real and present threat in our Commonwealth. Every single day, Massachusetts residents are being subjected to unimaginable harm and trauma at the hands of traffickers. My office has dedicated substantial resources and created a dedicated team of prosecutors to combat this horrific conduct, hold traffickers accountable and bring justice to victims and survivors of these awful crimes.” “The conduct we allege in this case is horrific. Trevor Jones is accused of preying on, drugging, and sexually victimizing women for his own financial gain. No human being should ever be lured into servitude, exploited, and forced to live their lives in fear where escape seems all but impossible, but that’s exactly what we believe happened here,” said Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division. “The resiliency his victims have shown is commendable, and as a result, Jones will now face justice. Make no mistake, FBI Boston’s Child Exploitation – Human Trafficking Task Force will do everything in its power to help them get the services they need to heal.” According to the charging documents, Jones ran a sex trafficking operation targeting victims who were suffering from substance use disorder. As part of his sex trafficking operation, Jones allegedly provided his victims with controlled substances, including heroin, fentanyl and cocaine to intensify their drug dependence and gain their compliance, while prohibiting the victims from obtaining controlled substances from other sources. He also routinely confiscated their identifications and other personal items to impede their ability to leave. Jones required victims to earn a daily quota and provide him with all the proceeds from their commercial sex acts. Jones allegedly enforced his requirements by punishing victims with acts of violence, threats of violence and withholding controlled substance from drug-dependent victims. The charge of sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. U.S. Attorney Rollins; FBI SAC Bonavolonta; John E. Mawn, Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police; and Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Revere and Boston Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Riley, Chief of Rollins’s Civil Rights and Human Trafficking Unit is prosecuting the case along with Essex County Assistant District Attorneys Jessica Strasnick and Marina Moriarty, who are serving as Special Assistant United States Attorneys. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Delaware Man Admits Distributing Heroin in New Jersey

body_text: CAMDEN, N.J. – A Delaware man today admitted he distributed and possessed with intent to distribute heroin, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced. Carl L. Jones, 49, of Newport, Delaware, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Christine P. O’Hearn in Camden federal court to an information charging him with one count of distribution and possession with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: On March 29, 2019, Jones distributed, and possessed with intent to distribute, at least 700 grams, but less than one kilogram, of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin to a confidential source who was working with law enforcement in a commercial parking lot in Mt. Laurel, New Jersey. Jones faces a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of up to $1 million. Sentencing is scheduled for Sept. 6, 2023. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen M. Harberg in Camden. jones.information.pdf


title: American living in Mexico caught trying to export 5,680 rounds of ammunition

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: LAREDO, Texas – A 32-year-old U.S. citizen has pleaded guilty to smuggling goods from the United States, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. Jesus Alberto Olivarez admitted to attempting to export 5,680 rounds of assorted pistol ammunition. “All too often, the smuggling of illegal firearms and ammunition to Mexico is used to fuel a scourge of violence that threatens law enforcement and security officials, as well as the communities they serve,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa O. Monaco. “To protect our law enforcement partners and the people of both our nations, the Justice Department will continue to use all of the tools at our disposal to stop those who would traffic illegal guns and ammunition to Mexico.” “Olivarez was about to drive into Mexico with almost 6,000 rounds of live ammunition until the expertise and keen ear of a law enforcement officer thwarted his plan,” said Hamdani. “Stopping the illegal flow of firearms and ammunition into Mexico saves lives and will always be a priority of the Southern District of Texas and our local, state and federal law enforcement partners.” On Feb. 27, Olivarez drove his black PT Cruiser to the Lincoln Juarez International Bridge on his way home to Nuevo Laredo, Tamaulipas, Mexico. Authorities noted one of the vehicle’s doors rattled as if something was hidden in it and seemed unusually heavy. A subsequent search of all four of the Cruiser’s door panels yielded a total of 5,680 live rounds of pistol ammunition in assorted calibers - 3,600 rounds of .40 caliber S&W, 900 rounds of .380 caliber, 900 rounds of .45 caliber, 100 rounds of 9-millimeter and 180 rounds of .38 SPL +P ammunition. Olivarez admitted he had agreed to smuggle the ammunition into Mexico and had just received the ammunition a few hours prior. He personally hid the ammunition throughout the vehicle’s door and rear panels. U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo will impose sentencing Aug. 9. At that time, Olivarez faces up to 10 years in prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) assigned to the HSI-Laredo Border Enforcement Task Force, working in coordination with the Laredo Police Department’s Texas Anti-Gang Unit, conducted the investigation with the assistance of Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorney Homero Ramirez is prosecuting the case. This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state and local Project Safe Neighborhoods ( PSN ) Program. In May 2021, Attorney General Merrick B. Garland announced a new effort to reduce violent crime, including the gun violence that is often at its core. Integral to that effort was the reinvigoration of PSN, a two-decade old, evidence-based and community-oriented program focused on reducing violent crime. The updated PSN approach, outlined in the department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime is guided by four key principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities and measuring the results of our efforts. The fundamental goal is to reduce violent crime, not simply to increase the number of arrests or prosecutions.