title: One-Time ‘Shot-Caller’ of MS-13 in Los Angeles, Second Senior Member of Gang Found Guilty of Federal RICO and Drug Offenses

body_text: LOS ANGELES – Two senior members of Mara Salvatrucha, a transnational criminal street gang commonly called MS-13, including the one-time shot-caller of all MS-13 in Los Angeles, have been found guilty of federal racketeering and drug trafficking charges, the Justice Department announced today. José Balmore Romero, 49, a.k.a. “Porky,” the case’s lead defendant, and Erwin Alexander Melgar, 45, a.k.a. “Snoopy,” each were found guilty late Friday of one count of conspiracy to violate the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act and one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. Melgar also was found guilty of two counts of distribution of methamphetamine. According to evidence presented at a four-day trial, Balmore was the overall shot-caller for MS-13 in Los Angeles in 2013 and 2014. As the leader of the gang, Balmore oversaw MS-13’s activities in Los Angeles, serving as the leader for the more than 20 cliques of MS-13 in Los Angeles. In this role, Balmore oversaw MS-13’s drug trafficking activities and the collection of extortionate “taxes” and “rent,” some of which was then distributed to Mexican Mafia members. Balmore also conducted gang leadership meetings, where he brought together leaders from the various Los Angeles-based MS-13 cliques to discuss coordinated efforts in strengthening and organizing the gang in Los Angeles. He also disseminated gang orders, including authorizing the initiation of new members and the assault of members who were in bad standing. As for Melgar, evidence at trial showed he was the shot-caller of the Normandie clique of MS-13 in Los Angeles, a clique based in the Koreatown area of Los Angeles. In this role, Melgar controlled and gave orders to the clique members, including to engage in acts of violence. Melgar also directed the clique’s extortion and drug sales. In addition to narcotics trafficking and violent crimes, members of MS-13 also engaged in a wide range of criminal conduct that includes the extortion of street-level drug dealers and innocent business owners who were threatened with death if they did not make payments to the gang. Under Melgar, the gang also operated illegal after-hours clubs, commonly known as “casitas,” where it generated profits from illegal narcotics and alcohol sales. United States District Judge Otis D. Wright II scheduled an October 16 sentencing hearing, at which time Balmore and Melgar will face statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison and a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison. Federal prosecutors have secured 28 convictions so far in this case, which targeted the leadership of MS-13 in Los Angeles. The investigation into MS-13 was conducted by the Los Angeles Metropolitan Task Force on Violent Gangs and was led by the FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department. The LAMTFVG includes personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Southern California Drug Task Force pursuant to the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; and the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the United States Bureau of Prisons participated in the investigation. Other agencies provided substantial assistance during the investigation, including the Los Angeles Regional Criminal Information Clearinghouse (LA CLEAR), the Los Angeles City Attorney's Office, the Los Angeles County Probation Department, and the Los Angeles County Department of Children and Family Services. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Chemerinsky, Chief of the Violent and Organized Crime Section, and Assistant United States Attorneys Shawn T. Andrews and Amy E. Pomerantz, also of the Violent and Organized Crime Section, are prosecuting this case.


title: Woman Guilty of Using Threats and Intimidation to Bilk Elderly Victim Out of More Than $1.6 Million

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: CHICAGO — A woman has admitted in federal court that she used a series of threats and intimidation to bilk an elderly victim out of more than $1.6 million. LEE TURNER, also known as “Ashley Turner,” 40, of Joliet, Ill., pleaded guilty on May 16, 2023, to one count of using a facility of interstate commerce to promote and carry on unlawful activity, namely theft and intimidation. The conviction is punishable by a maximum sentence of five years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000. U.S. District Judge Manish S. Shah set sentencing for Sept. 8, 2023. Turner admitted in a plea agreement that from 2018 to 2021 she communicated numerous threats and fraudulent statements to the victim, who was in his seventies and had limited vision. Turner’s communications threatened to expose the victim’s purported criminal activity, even though Turner had no knowledge of any such activity committed by the victim. Turner took on false personas to convey false statements purportedly from others, including alleged gang members, individuals involved in organized crime, prosecutors, journalists, and corrupt law enforcement officers. In one example cited in the plea agreement, Turner, using the alias “Big Joe,” sent a series of messages to the victim, claiming that the victim had to pay $30,000 to prevent law enforcement from raiding the victim’s residence and a relative’s residence. On June 13, 2019, the victim paid Turner $30,000 to avoid the purported raids, the plea agreement states. The money was one of dozens of similar payments, ranging in value from $5,000 to $66,000, that the victim made to Turner. In all, Turner received $1,611,975 from the victim as a result of the scam, the plea agreement states. The guilty plea was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Robert W. “Wes” Wheeler, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago Office of the FBI, and Eric Rossi, Chief of the Orland Park Police Department. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney David B. Green.


title: South Bay Man Found Guilty of Selling Fentanyl-Laced Pills That Caused Fatal Poisoning of 15-Year-Old Rolling Hills Estates Boy

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A South Bay man has been found guilty by a jury of distributing pills laced with the powerful opioid fentanyl to a 15-year-old boy who ingested them and died in May 2020, the Justice Department announced today. Alexander Declan Bell Wilson, 22, of Rolling Hills, was found guilty late Friday of one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. According to evidence presented at a five-day trial, on the evening on May 14, 2020, Wilson agreed to distribute five “percs” –slang for pills typically laced with fentanyl – to the victim, Nathan Young-Nichols, 15, of Rolling Hills Estates. Evidence seized from Young-Nichols’ cellular phone shows he believed the pills were authentic pharmaceutical pills that contained the opioid oxycodone. At around 11:30 p.m. that night, the victim’s 13-year-old brother met Wilson outside the family’s house to pick up the five pills. Wilson then handed a plastic bag containing the pills to the victim’s brother through the window of Wilson’s vehicle. The victim’s brother took the bag from Wilson, went back inside the house, and gave the pills to the victim. Shortly afterward, Young-Nichols posted a photograph of the pills on his Snapchat social media account and then ingested the pills. From approximately 1:50 a.m. to 5:30 a.m. on May 15, 2020, Wilson and the victim argued on Snapchat about the proper way to consume the pills Wilson had sold to the victim. During those chats, Wilson chastised Young-Nichols for chewing the pills, and then shared screenshots of their conversation with his Snapchat followers. On the morning of May 15, 2020, the victim’s grandmother found him dead in his bedroom. Expert testimony at trial confirmed the victim’s death was caused solely due to fentanyl poisoning. United States District Judge Fernando L. Aenlle-Rocha scheduled an October 20 sentencing hearing, at which time Wilson will face a mandatory sentence of 20 years and a potential sentence of life imprisonment. Wilson has been in federal custody since May 2021. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Overdose Justice Task Force and the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department investigated this matter. The Overdose Justice Task Force is a project designed to investigate fatal fentanyl poisonings and identify the individuals who provided the fentanyl that directly caused the deaths. Under the Overdose Justice program for the DEA’s Los Angeles Field Division, DEA agents have established collaborative relationships with local law enforcement agencies across the seven counties that make up the Central District of California. Local authorities are almost always the first to respond to an overdose death, and DEA agents have provided training to dozens of local agencies to help them analyze evidence to determine if there are circumstances that might lead to a federal criminal prosecution. Assistant United States Attorneys Ian V. Yanniello and Daniel H. Weiner of the General Crimes Section are prosecuting this case.


title: Tulare County Man Sentenced to over 17 Years in Prison for Gun and Drug Charges

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — Jonathan Gallegos, 32, of Ivanhoe, was sentenced to 17 years and seven months in prison for trafficking methamphetamine and marijuana and using a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, the charges arose from a long-term investigation that uncovered evidence of a scheme involving the trade of illegal drugs sourced in Mexico and California for firearms sourced in Texas. In 2021, a team of local, state, and federal law enforcement officers partnered in an investigation into the Tulare County Surenos Street Gang. Part of the investigation focused on Gallegos and his associates, who were involved in shipping illegal drugs and firearms across state lines. Between April 6, 2021, and Dec. 17, 2021, Gallegos and associates shipped kilograms of methamphetamine and marijuana from post offices in Central California to residences in San Antonio, Texas. Gallegos’s drug-buying customers shipped firearms back to Gallegos and his associates in California, as payment for the narcotics they had received. This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, the Tulare County Area Regencies Gun Enforcement Team, the Visalia Police Department, the California Department of Justice’s Bureau of Investigation, the California Highway Patrol’s Special Operations Unit, and the Tulare County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin J. Gilio and Antonio J. Pataca are prosecuting the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF. 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: Registered Sex Offender Arrested on Child Pornography Charge

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE – A registered sex offender living in Woonsocket made an initial appearance in federal court on Friday, charged by way of a criminal complaint with possessing and accessing with intent to view child pornography, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. According to documents filed with the court, a member of the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force received information from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that an IP address, later determined to originate from a Woonsocket residence where Matthew S. Hathaway, 25, resided, was allegedly being used to possess and transfer child pornography. On March 16, 2023, members of the ICAC Task Force executed a court-authorized search warrant at Hathaway’s residence and seized a desktop computer and cell phone belonging to Hathaway. A forensic audit of the electronic devices by Homeland Security Investigations determined that the devices allegedly contained 7,984 images and 192 videos of child sexual abuse material. A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dulce Donovan. ###


title: Louisville Men Sentenced in Federal Court for Multi-Drug Trafficking Conspiracy and Firearms Offenses

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – Three members of a large-scale, multi-drug trafficking conspiracy were recently sentenced for their roles in the conspiracy and for firearms offenses. Two were also sentenced for using a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime resulting in murder. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department, Sheriff John E. Aubrey Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and Chief Richard Sanders of the Jeffersontown Police Department made the announcement. Dwayne C. Castle , 49, of Louisville, was sentenced on May 19, 2023, to 30 years in prison, followed by a 20-year term of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute controlled substances to include heroin and methamphetamine and for use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime resulting in murder. Javier H. Rodriguez , 32, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced on May 18, 2023, to 40 years in prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances to include heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana and for use of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime resulting in murder. Charles Orlando Cater , 47, of Louisville, was sentenced on April 11, 2023, to 21 years and 10 months in prison, followed by an 8-year term of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute controlled substances to include heroin and marijuana and for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court records, Rodriguez was the leader and organizer of a sophisticated drug trafficking organization distributing kilogram amounts of controlled substances, including heroin, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana, primarily in the Louisville Metro area. Castle was his “right-hand man” who operated multiple stash house locations storing and distributing controlled substances on behalf of the organization. Cater assisted the organization and primarily acted as a “bodyguard” for Rodriguez . On January 16, 2018, Rodriguez and his organization arranged the sale of a kilogram of heroin to individuals in the Victory Park neighborhood for $70,000. That sale, however, became a robbery and, following a shootout in broad daylight, the kilogram of heroin was stolen from Rodriguez , Castle , and Cater . In retribution for the stolen heroin, Rodriguez ordered the murder of Vincente Ramirez. On January 20, 2018, Rodriguez , Castle , and Cater all traveled together to a Newburg neighborhood where Ramirez was shot to death in his vehicle. Through a collaborative investigation between federal and state agencies lead by DEA and LMPD Homicide , Rodriguez , Castle, and Cater were all arrested on February 23, 2018, and subsequently federally indicted for drug trafficking and murder in furtherance of drug trafficking. At the time their arrests, Castle and Cater blamed the other as the actual shooter of Ramirez. On August 19, 2019, Castle , pursuant to a plea agreement, entered a guilty plea to all the indicted charges. On October 18, 2022, Rodriguez , without a plea agreement, entered a guilty plea to all the indicted charges. Following a nine-day jury trial in November 2022 Cater was convicted of the drug trafficking conspiracy and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon but acquitted of murder in furtherance of the conspiracy. This case was investigated by the DEA, FBI, ATF, the IRS Criminal Investigation, the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jeffersontown Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mac Shannon and Rob Bonar prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF . ###


title: Stonington Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation Offense

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that MATTHEW X. SMITH, 29, of Stonington, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Jeffery A. Meyer in New Haven to 60 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for a child exploitation offense. According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 12, 2021, Smith, using the Kik social media application, initiated contact with an FBI Online Covert Employee (“OCE”) who was posing as a 14-year-old girl. Smith sent sexually explicit messages to the OCE, requested the OCE send him sexually explicit pictures, and discussed meeting the OCE to engage in sexual conduct. As the Kik communication continued in the following days, investigators also determined that Smith, using a different Kik user account, had engaged in sexually explicit exchanges with the OCE in 2020. Smith and the OCE agreed to meet on August 18, 2021. On August 18, 2021, Smith was arrested by New London Police on state charges after he arrived at the agreed upon meeting location. He was charged by federal criminal complaint in February 2022. On January 10, 2023, he pleaded guilty to soliciting child pornography. Smith, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on June 26. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the New London Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patricia Stolfi Collins. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com .


title: Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare Agrees To Settle Allegations That It Violated The Americans With Disabilities Act

component: USAO - Tennessee, Middle

body_text: NASHVILLE – Memphis-based Methodist Le Bonheur Healthcare has agreed to resolve allegations that it violated the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by failing to provide effective communication to individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, announced United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. As part of the settlement, Methodist will pay $5,000 in penalties to the United States and $18,000 to the complainant. “We are committed to enforcing the rights of persons with disabilities in Tennessee,” said United States Attorney Henry C. Leventis. “It is vital that individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing can communicate with health care professionals and the Americans with Disabilities Act requires as much.” The United States alleged that on multiple occasions, Methodist failed to provide the complainant, a deaf individual, with an on-site American Sign Language (ASL) interpreter, and in one incident Methodist used the complainant’s minor child to interpret on her behalf, which the United States contends violates the ADA. The United States also alleged that the use of an interpreter was necessary for effective communication and the lack of a requested interpreter resulted in the complainant either rescheduling medical care for her children or proceeding without the assistance of an interpreter or using other auxiliary aids. During the investigation, the United States also became aware of additional complaints concerning Methodist’s failure to provide effective communication to several other individuals who are deaf at various Methodist locations. Under the terms of the Settlement Agreement, Methodist has agreed to provide effective communication to its patients and companions on a timely basis and will train its personnel and physicians as to effective communication at multiple hospital locations. Methodist also will designate an ADA liaison who can be contacted 24 hours a day, seven days a week, by patients and/or companions who are deaf or hard of hearing. Significant reporting requirements have also been instituted during the two-year term of the Settlement Agreement, including a requirement to notify the United States of any complaints related to the failure to provide effective communication to deaf or hard of hearing patients and their companions. The civil claims settled by this Settlement Agreement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kara F. Sweet investigated the complaint and negotiated the Settlement Agreement. The Department of Justice has a number of publications available to assist entities in complying with the ADA including a Technical Assistance Publication entitled: ADA Requirements: Effective Communication and a Business Brief on Communicating with People Who Are Deaf or Hard of Hearing in Hospital Settings. For more information on the ADA and to access these publications, visit http://www.ada.gov or call the Justice Department’s toll-free ADA information Line at 800-514-0301 or 800-514-0383 (TDD). ADA complaints may be filed by email to ada.complaint@usdoj.gov . # # # # #


title: Joint State and Federal Operation Seizes Kilograms of Drugs, Multiple Firearms, and Arrests Five in Southeastern N.C.

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley, along with federal and local law enforcement, provided information related to ongoing and coordinated efforts to target drug distribution in Sampson and Duplin Counties. Last week, a joint operation took place with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation (NCSBI), the Sampson, Duplin and New Hanover County Sheriffs’ Offices, and the Jacksonville, Goldsboro, and Wilmington Police Departments. A primary objective of this operation was to target suspected armed drug dealers. As part of the operation, search warrants and arrest warrants were executed at multiple locations in Duplin and Sampson counties and the following items were seized: Approximately eight pounds of suspected cocaine; Over four ounces of suspected fentanyl; Over an ounce of suspected crack cocaine; Drug packing materials; Drug distribution materials; Approximately $10,000 cash; and Multiple firearms and ammunition. “Our office is working closely with our state and local partners to get illegal drugs and guns off the streets and put those fueling the drug epidemic behind bars,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “We are using every tool available to make our communities safer.” Sampson County Sheriff Jimmy Thornton stated, “I am thankful for the cooperation of our federal and state partners in combating the drug epidemic. While these seizures don’t solve the problem, they send the message that this activity is not welcomed or tolerated in our community.” “Drug trafficking too often fuels the violent crime law enforcement is working hard to address,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims. “Disrupting these networks has a major impact on fighting violent gun crime.” “Dangerous drugs have taken a terrible toll on our communities,” said Robert J. Murphy, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Division. “Drug traffickers should know they will face the consequences of their actions.” According to court documents, on the same day the search warrants were executed, the following individuals were arrested on federal charges: Christopher Hill, 42, of Sampson County, distribution of methamphetamine; Cheri Boyette, 45, of Duplin County, distribution of methamphetamine; Peyton McBride, 42, of Sampson County distribution of cocaine; Rashawn Ray McDuffie, 43, of Duplin County, conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine; Dennis Ray Taylor, 57, of Duplin County, distribution of methamphetamine. An indictment/criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. ###


title: Mexican National Sentenced to over 11 Years in Prison for Drug Lab in Madera

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — Jose Monge-Ponce, 33, of Mexico, was sentenced today to 11 years and four months in prison for conspiring to manufacture, to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, and marijuana, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, in January 2019, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at an unoccupied residence in Madera and found Ponce and his co-defendants, Oscar Rene Marrot-Garcia, 30, of Chowchilla and Francisco Alcantar-Miranda, 34, of Mexico. Inside the residence, the detectives found a methamphetamine lab, along with 22.4 pounds of methamphetamine in solution, 17 pounds of finished methamphetamine, 4 pounds of heroin, 1 pound of cocaine, 24 pounds of marijuana, and $18,000 in cash. Ponce was in possession of a loaded unregistered firearm, three cellphones, and pay-owe sheets. On Feb. 13, 2023, Ponce pleaded guilty to the conspiracy. Alcantar and Marrot also previously entered guilty pleas and were sentenced to 10 years and six and a half years in prison, respectively. This case was the product of an investigation by the Madera County Sheriff’s Office Narcotic Enforcement Team (MADNET) and the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) High Impact Investigation Team (HITT), consisting of agents of Homeland Security Investigations, the California Department of Justice, the California Highway Patrol, the Sheriff’s Offices of Fresno, Tulare, and King Counties, and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karen A. Escobar prosecuted the case.


title: Warwick Woman Admits Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy

body_text: PROVIDENCE – A thirty-eight-year-old Warwick woman today admitted to a federal judge that she participated in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine during which, on at least ten occasions, she sold crystal meth to others, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. According to information presented to the court, between March and June 2021, Wendy Greene sold a total of 447 grams of crystal meth to various individuals. Greene personally sold the drugs on nine occasions while being surveilled by members of the FBI’s Rhode Island Safe Streets Gang Task Force. On at least one occasion, she enlisted another individual to make the delivery. Appearing in U.S. District Court, Greene pleaded guilty to a charge of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. She is scheduled to be sentenced on August 22, 2023. The defendant’s sentence will be determined by a federal judge after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Christine D. Lowell. The matter was investigated by the Rhode Island FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force, with significant assistance provided by the Warwick Police Department. The Rhode Island FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force consists of agents and law enforcement officers from the FBI, United States Marshals Service, Central Falls Police Department, Cranston Police Department, Pawtucket Police Department, Providence Police Department, West Warwick Police Department, Woonsocket Police Department, and Rhode Island State Police. ###


title: United States Attorney’s Office Announces 20th Annual Project Safe Neighborhoods Logo Contest Winners

component: USAO - South Carolina

body_text: COLUMBIA, SOUTH CAROLINA --- United States Attorney Adair F. Boroughs announced today the winners of the United States Attorney’s Office’s 20th Annual Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Logo Contest. The theme was “Preventing Gun Violence in Our Schools,” and the contest was open to all SC grade school students. Judges sought logos that demonstrated a successful collaboration between schools, communities, and law enforcement to reflect (1) warning signs that students should be looking for related to gun violence; (2) resources to help students who have concerns about gun violence; and (3) general messages to prevent gun violence in South Carolina schools. The overall winning logo will be displayed on our website and used in various presentations. “Every year, we look forward to the entries submitted by SC students and gathering their input on how to curb gun violence in our schools. These students are important voices that we all need to listen to in addressing this national issue,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs. “We hope that the winning artwork will capture the attention of other students and inspire them to use their voices in combatting gun violence.” The winner from each grade division and the overall winner, along with their schools, are named below. Media should contact the respective schools to determine details of any award presentations to be held: K–2ND GRADE DIVISION Winner - Harlem Foster, 2nd grade Fairfield Magnet School for Math & Science, Winnsboro, SC Honorable Mention - Rocco Fuhr, 2nd grade Memminger Elementary, Charleston, SC 3RD–5TH GRADE DIVISION/ OVERALL WINNER Winner/ Overall Winner - Andrea Gaston, 5 th grade Wallace Elementary Middle School, Wallace, SC Honorable Mention - Kaylee Summers, 5 th grade Fairfield Magnet School for Math & Science, Winnsboro, SC 6TH–8TH GRADE DIVISION Winner - Ky’Mari Johnson, 8 th grade William J. Clark Middle School, Orangeburg, SC Honorable Mention - Abryelle Bignal, 6 th grade Fairfield Magnet School for Math & Science, Winnsboro, SC 9TH–12TH GRADE DIVISION Winner - Samantha Morales, 9th grade C. A. Johnson High School, Columbia, SC Honorable Mention - Paige Shea, 11th grade Battery-Creek High School, Beaufort, SC The winning entries were chosen by “The Insiders,” a select group of young leaders at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice who act as role models for the other youth. The South Carolina Sheriffs’ Association is providing $50.00 awards to each division winner, as well as an additional $50 to the overall winner. Additionally, all students who participated will receive a Certificate of Appreciation for their submissions. The annual logo contest is a long-running part of the district’s PSN program and an important prevention initiative to engage our students in meaningful conversation about preventing gun crimes amongst our young people and ensuring a safe learning atmosphere for our children. PSN focuses on reducing violent crime in our communities through prevention, enforcement, and re-entry initiatives. View this year’s winning submissions and learn more about the contest at https://www.justice.gov/usao-sc/programs/ceasefire/project-sentry/contest-winners . ###


title: Montana Man Sentenced for Assault on Flight Crew on Flight to Juneau, Alaska

body_text: JUNEAU – A Montana man was sentenced on May 19, 2023, for assaulting a flight crew member on a commercial airline flight while the plane was landing at the Juneau airport. According to court documents, on April 1, 2023, Eric Richard Bruns, 42, was a passenger aboard Alaska Airlines Flight 67 with service from Sitka, Alaska to Juneau, Alaska. While the aircraft was in flight, Bruns started acting erratically and refused crew members instructions to remain seated while the plane was on approach to the Juneau airport. Bruns remained standing in the aisle and began moving towards the front of the aircraft and was physically obstructed by the flight crew member. Bruns made verbal threats to assault the flight crew member and physically tried to shove his way past the flight crew member, striking the crew member with his hands. At that time, while the aircraft was landing at the Juneau airport, two federal law enforcement officers and a civilian assisted the flight crew member and physically restrained Bruns in an unoccupied seat until the plane arrived at the gate. The defendant pled guilty on May 17, 2023, before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Matthew S. Scoble to an Information charging Assault in the Special Aircraft Jurisdiction of the United States, in violation 49 U.S.C. § 46506 and 18 U.S.C. § 113. He was sentenced to time served. “The safety and security of air travel is paramount, and we will continue to prosecute offenders in order to ensure that all passengers are able to travel without fear of assault or harm,” said U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker. “We hope that this case will serve as a warning to others who may consider committing similar acts in the future, and that it will encourage everyone to follow the rules and regulations designed to keep our skies safe and secure.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Schmidt prosecuted the case. ###


title: Orange County Man Sentenced to 7 Years in Prison for Using Stolen Identities to Apply for Over $1 Million in COVID Jobless Benefits

body_text: SANTA ANA, California – An Orange County man was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison for fraudulently applying for more than $1.2 million in COVID-19 pandemic unemployment insurance (UI) benefits – and receiving more than $400,000 of the same – by using the stolen identities of two dozen victims. Nhan Hoang Pham, 37, of Santa Ana, was sentenced by United States District Judge James V. Selna, who also ordered him to pay $408,496 in restitution. Pham pleaded guilty on January 23 to one count of wire fraud in relation to benefits connected to a presidentially declared emergency. From July 2020 to April 2021, Pham acquired without authorization or permission the personal identifying information (PII) – including names, dates of birth and Social Security numbers – of people living in California, Texas and Michigan, people he had never met. Pham then created and submitted fraudulent online applications to the California Employment Development Department (EDD), which administers the state’s unemployment insurance program. Pham’s fraudulent applications sought federally funded pandemic benefits intended for the jobless and represented that the victims whose PII was unlawfully used received mail at Anaheim addresses that, in fact, Pham controlled. Upon receipt of the applications, EDD transmitted the claimant information to Bank of America, which caused the issuance and mailing of debit cards to Anaheim addresses that Pham controlled. Pham then took the fraudulently obtained debit cards and used them to withdraw money at ATMs throughout Orange County. While Pham tried to obtain approximately $1,255,350 through fraudulent applications containing the PII of 24 identity theft victims, he received approximately $408,496. The United States Secret Service; the United States Department of Labor’s Office of Inspector General; the California Employment Development Department Investigation Division; the Orange County District Attorney’s Office Bureau of Investigation; and the Santa Ana Police Department investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Lawrence E. Kole of the Santa Ana Branch Office prosecuted this case. 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 Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .


title: New Orleans Man Sentenced  For Role in Federal Car Theft Ring

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – GREGORY BUTLER ( “BUTLER” ), age 37, was sentenced on May 18, 2023, for conspiring to transport and sell stolen vehicles in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 371, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to court documents, BUTLER and his co-conspirators stole cars from car dealerships and rental car facilities in Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, and George. After the cards were stolen, BUTLER and his co-conspirators retitled the cards under fraudulent Vehicle Identification Numbers (VINS) with the Louisiana Office of Motor Vehicles. After the cars were retitled and cloned with fraudulent VINS, the defendants resold the cars to buyers in the New Orleans metro area at discounted prices. U.S. District Court Judge Nanette Jolivette Brown sentenced BUTLER to serve one year and one day in prison, to be followed by three (3) years of supervised release and imposed a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. The court also set a restitution hearing for June 15, 2023. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Department of Homeland Security, the Louisiana State Police, the D’Iberville Police Department, and the New Orleans Police Department in investigating this matter. Assistant U. S. Attorneys Spiro G. Latsis and Jon Maestri of the General Crimes Unit are in charge of the prosecution.


title: Four KC Metro Men Indicted for Illegally Trafficking Machineguns, Other Firearms

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Kansas City, Mo., men and an Independence, Mo., man have been indicted by a federal grand jury for illegally selling machine guns and other firearms, some of which have been linked to prior shootings. Antonio Manning, 21, his brother, Sheron Lamont Manning, 20, and Michael Dewayne Hardy, 20, all of Kansas City, Mo., and Dejohuan Mietz Huntley, 25, of Independence, Mo., were charged in a 23-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Mo., on Wednesday, May 17. That indictment was unsealed and made public today upon the arrest and initial court appearance of Antonio Manning. The federal indictment alleges that all four defendants participated in a conspiracy to illegally traffic in firearms from May 24, 2022, to April 20, 2023. The 22 firearms included five Glock 9mm handguns, five Glock .40-caliber handguns, nine Anderson Manufacturing AR-15 style, multi-caliber pistols, a Romar/Cugir Mini Draco 7.62 x 39 caliber pistol, a Century Arms 7.62 x 39 caliber pistol, and a Glock .45-caliber pistol. Nine of the firearms allegedly were altered into machineguns. In addition to the conspiracy, they are each charged with engaging in firearm sales without a license. According to a detention motion filed by the government, the firearms allegedly were sold to a confidential informant monitored by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Investigators have linked several of the firearms identified in the trafficking conspiracy to other crimes of violence by utilizing the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (“NIBIN”). For example, according to the government’s detention motion, a Glock .45-caliber sold by Sheron Manning to the confidential informant was linked to a shooting at the Winnwood Skate Center, 4426 N.E. Winn Road in Kansas City, Mo., on Nov. 13, 2022. A Glock .40-caliber pistol sold by Sheron Manning was linked to an occupied residence that was struck with gunfire on Feb. 5, 2022, and another Glock .40-caliber pistol sold by Sheron Manning was linked to a shooting at North 59 th and Cemech Road in Kansas City, Kansas, on Jan. 20, 2023. A Glock 9mm pistol sold to the confidential informant by Huntley was linked to a homicide that occurred on April 9, 2019. In that incident, witnesses reported that two or three young black males armed with handguns and an AK-47-type rifle began shooting at a residence while individuals were sitting on the front steps of the house. One victim was shot and died at the hospital as a result of the gunshot wound. The same firearm was also involved in shooting the rear passenger window of a vehicle on Oct. 16, 2019. Antonio Manning is also charged with three counts of trafficking firearms and one count of possessing an unregistered machinegun. Sheron Manning is also charged with five counts of trafficking firearms and four counts of possessing unregistered machineguns. Hardy is also charged with one count of trafficking a firearm and one count of possessing an unregistered machinegun. Huntley is also charged with two counts of trafficking firearms, two counts of possessing unregistered machineguns and two counts of being a felon in possession of firearms. The charges contained in this indictment are simply accusations, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charges must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Trey Alford. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Project Safe Neighborhoods This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Unrepentant Gang Member  Who Led Police on High-Speed Chase Receives 10 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Firearm Charges

body_text: NEW BERN, N.C. – Veshon Lendell Shaw, aka “Play Maker”, 29, of Wilmington, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for possession of a firearm by a felon and possession with intent to distribute MDMA (Ecstasy) and marijuana. He pled guilty to the charges on February 13, 2022. “This defendant led law enforcement on a high-speed chase and crashed into a police vehicle,” said U.S. Attorney Easley. “When apprehended, he bragged that he wasn’t afraid to spend time in prison. Today’s sentence makes the Wilmington community safer by putting him behind bars for the next 10 years.” “Violent criminals have no place on our streets. We will continue to do everything we can to ensure that those who are responsible for criminal activity are held accountable for their actions. We appreciate the partnerships we have with various agencies who helped us bring this case to a close. I am also grateful to the women and men of the Wilmington Police Department for their continued pursuit of justice to ensure a safe community for all,” said Chief Donny Williams. According to court documents and other information presented in court, on July 29, 2021, a Wilmington Police Officer attempted to stop a car driven by Shaw for a revoked license and a traffic violation. Shaw pulled into a parking lot in the Creekwood area of Wilmington then sped off at a high rate of speed onto North 30 th street. Shaw’s car struck a law enforcement van on Market Street, and law enforcement was then able to box in Shaw’s car following this collision. Shaw exited the car and fled on foot but was ultimately apprehended. At the time of his arrest, Shaw was in possession of an ounce of MDMA and $1,200 cash. Law enforcement found a stolen 9mm handgun and marijuana in the car. Following Shaw’s arrest, he told officers that he was not afraid to “sit down.” Law enforcement knew this to mean that Shaw was claiming that he was not afraid to serve a prison sentence. Shaw said that it would give him a chance to meet a new “plug” (a source of supply for drugs). According to law enforcement, Shaw was a member of the 720 Folk Nation Gang. Shaw has prior convictions for Selling a Controlled Substance (2012), Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon (2013), Common Law Robbery (2015), and Selling Heroin (2015). This is part of operation “Golfer” which 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 U.S. District Judge Louise W. Flanagan. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the New Hanover and Brunswick County Sheriffs’ Offices and the Wilmington Police Department investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Severo and Gabe Diaz prosecuted the case. Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 7:21-cr-00103-FL-1.


title: Third Superseding Indictment Charges 22 Members and Associates of Violent Gang with Racketeering, Murder, Attempted Murder, Robbery and Drug and Firearm Offenses

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – In a 42 count third superseding indictment, 22 members and associates of the Boston-based Cameron Street gang have been charged with various crimes including racketeering (RICO) conspiracy, gun and drug trafficking, illegal possession of firearms, and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. According to court documents, the Cameron Street gang is a violent criminal enterprise whose members and associates are involved in a variety of criminal activities – including murders, attempted murders, armed robberies, carjackings, home invasions, human trafficking, as well as drug and firearms trafficking, among other offenses – in the Dorchester neighborhood of Boston and surrounding areas. While the gang is primarily based in Boston, Cameron Street criminal activity has spanned other communities, including Brockton, Cambridge, Somerville, Quincy, Everett, Randolph, Taunton and elsewhere in Massachusetts. It is alleged that Cameron Street members use violence against rival gangs and witnesses, typically with the use of firearms, to maintain and enhance their status and the overall reputation of the gang, as well as to protect the gang’s power, reputation and territory. Cameron Street members are allegedly responsible for assisting one another with obtaining and accessing firearms, forming and maintaining drug trafficking connections, resolving territorial disputes with rival gangs and providing safe havens for fellow members who are wanted by law enforcement. It is further alleged that Cameron Street gang members regularly post videos or use social media to promote Cameron Street, denigrate gang rivals and to celebrate murders and other violent crimes committed by the gang. To identify themselves as members of the gang, members obtain tattoos, use hand signs and wear jewelry and clothing involving the letters “C,” “A” and “M,” or numbers corresponding with the letters’ places in the alphabet, “3-1-1-3.” Members engage in drug trafficking activity and distributed kilograms of cocaine, cocaine base (crack cocaine), oxycodone and marijuana throughout Massachusetts. During the investigation, 21 firearms and hundreds of rounds of ammunition were allegedly seized from 11 of the defendants. The third superseding indictment adds three Cameron Street members to the RICO conspiracy count: Takari Elliot, a/k/a “T-Paper”; Daronde Bethea, a/k/a “Freeze”; and Michael Nguyen, a/k/a “Asian.” The third superseding indictment alleges that, as part of the Cameron Street enterprise, Elliot was paid to commit the Oct. 13, 2020 murder of a gang rival in Brockton. It is further alleged that Cameron Street members committed previously uncharged attempted murders, including Eric Correia and Clayton Rodrigues’ attempted murder of a gang rival in Boston as well as the June 11, 2018 attempted murder of a gang rival in Boston by Betha and Anthony Centieo. Additionally, the indictment alleges that Bethea and Nguyen worked with Cameron Street associate Brendan Amado to commit a home invasion robbery of a Canton home in July 2018. The charge of RICO conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Because Elliot is alleged to have committed a murder during the Cameron Street enterprise, Elliot faces an increased penalty of life in prison on the RICO conspiracy count. The charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm and/or ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime provides a mandatory minimum sentence of five years and up to life in prison, up to five of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charges of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine or 50 grams or more of methamphetamine provide for a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison, up to 40 years in prison, supervised release of at least 4 years, and a fine of up to $5 million. The charges of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances each provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. The charge of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by threat or violence provides for a sentence of up to 20 years, a fine of up to $250,000, and supervised release for three years. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. This operation is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua S. Levy; James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police; Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office; Suffolk, Plymouth, Norfolk and Bristol County District Attorney’s Offices; and the Canton, Quincy, Randolph, Somerville, Brockton, Malden, Stoughton, Rehoboth and Pawtucket (R.I.) Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Pohl and Alathea E. Porter of Levy’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ### APPENDIX 1. Kenny Romero, a/k/a “KG,” 28, charged with RICO conspiracy, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, distribution of cocaine base and cocaine; 2. Anthony Centeio, a/k/a “Wheezy,” a/k/a “Taliban Wheeze,” 33, charged with RICO conspiracy, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine; 3. Felisberto Lopes, a/k/a “Phil,” a/k/a “CheeB,” 36, charged with RICO conspiracy, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, possession of 500 grams or more of cocaine with intent to distribute; 4. Keiarri Dyette, a/k/a “Kemo,” 24, charged with RICO conspiracy, dealing in firearms without a license, and conspiracy to distribute cocaine; 5. Eric Correia, a/k/a “Bubba,” 24, charged with RICO conspiracy and distribution of marijuana; 6. Paulo Santos, a/k/a “Bucky,” 33, charged with RICO conspiracy, possession of 500 grams or more of cocaine with intent to distribute, felon in possession of a firearm, and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense; 7. Devante Lopes, a/k/a “D-Lopes,” 27, charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to distribute marijuana, and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine; 8. Charod Taylor, a/k/a “Pachino,” 33, charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and cocaine; 9. Jose Afonseca, a/k/a “Zay,” 30, charged with RICO conspiracy, dealing in firearms without a license, and conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine; 10. James Rodrigues, a/k/a “Bummy,” 32, charged with RICO conspiracy and conspiracy to distribute cocaine base; 11. Jonathan Darosa, a/k/a “Jeezy,” 29, charged with RICO conspiracy, felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, and distribution of cocaine and oxycodon; 12. Clayton Rodrigues, a/k/a “Loo,” a/k/a “C-Loo,” 26, charged with RICO conspiracy and possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number; 13. Wilter Rodrigues, a/k/a “Walt,” a/k/a “Wo-Wo,” 35, charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base; 14. Michael Lopes, a/k/a “Meech,” 34, charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and cocaine; 15. Victor Nunez, a/k/a “Tito,” 41, charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and cocaine; 16. FNU LNU, a/k/a “Smoke,” charged with conspiracy to distribute cocaine base and cocaine; 17. Jamaal Davis, a/k/a “Marley,” 29, charged with distribution of cocaine and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense; 18. Michael Nguyen, a/k/a “Asian,” 22, charged with RICO conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute marijuana and possession of a firearm during a drug trafficking offense; 19. Steve Depina, a/k/a “Stizz,” 35, charged with felon in possession of a firearm and distribution of cocaine base and cocaine; 20. Daronde Bethea, a/k/a “Freeze,” 30, charged with RICO conspiracy, conspiracy to interfere with commerce by threat or violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm; 21. Takari Elliot, a/k/a “T-Paper,” 31, charged with RICO conspiracy; and 22. Brendon Amado, 27, charged with conspiracy to interfere with commerce by threat or violence.


title: Dallas Man Sentenced to 14 years in Federal Prison for Supplying Fentanyl in Rowlett Overdose

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: PLANO, Texas – A Dallas man has been sentenced to 14 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations related to a 2021 overdose death, announced Eastern District of Texas U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs today. Robel Habtemariam, 20, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to manufacture and deliver fentanyl and was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison on May 19, 2023, by U.S. District Judge Sean D. Jordan. According to information presented in court, on March 16, 2021, law enforcement authorities responded to a parking lot regarding an unconscious person. Upon arrival, they found the victim lying on the ground just outside of a vehicle with two teenagers attempting to move him into the vehicle. The victim was administered Narcan and was transported to a hospital where he died. An investigation revealed that Habtemariam provided the victim with a pill and had left the scene before law enforcement arrived. Habtemariam returned to the scene at the request of officers and granted consent to search his vehicle. Officers located 25 pills that appeared to be Oxycodone but were later determined to be “pressed” pills containing Fentanyl. The investigation determined that Habtemariam provided one of the pills to the victim which caused his overdose. Instead of calling 911, Habtemariam called the victim’s girlfriend and left the scene. Habtemariam ultimately identified his original source of supply as Antonio Havis. Havis was previously convicted and sentenced to 20 years in federal prison by Judge Jordan on December 9, 2022. “Fentanyl overdose deaths are tragic and heartbreaking,” said U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs. “As long as fentanyl plagues our community and causes tragic, unnecessary deaths, we will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute overdose cases. Friday’s sentencing of Robel Habtemariam sends a clear message that this Office and our state and federal law enforcement partners will continue to prosecute and hold accountable dealers who distribute this poison, exploit addictions, and cause senseless deaths in the Eastern District of Texas.” “Today’s sentence is just another consequence of deadly illicit fentanyl in our neighborhoods,” said Eduardo A. Chávez, Special Agent in Charge of DEA Dallas. “Mr. Habtemariam will spend the next 14 years in federal prison because of one deadly pill. Because of that same pill, a life was lost and families have been forever changed. DEA Dallas and our law enforcement partners throughout the region will continue to investigate overdose and poisoning deaths and bring those responsible to justice; however, every one of us must do our part to prevent and educate others that truly One Pill Can Kill.” This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Rowlett Police Department and the Rowlett Fire and Emergency Services and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew T. Johnson. ###


title: New Jersey Man Sentenced to 6.75 Years in Prison for Schemes to Steal California Unemployment Insurance Benefits and Economic Injury Disaster Loans

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Eric Michael Jaklitsch, 40, of Elizabeth, New Jersey, was sentenced today to six years and nine months in prison for two related COVID-19 fraud cases, one case alleging wire fraud and aggravated identity theft in California and the other case alleging wire fraud in New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. “This defendant carried out two separate wire fraud schemes to bilk the federal government out of millions of dollars during the Covid-19 pandemic,” U.S. Attorney Talbert said. “Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s conduct that has harmed the federal government along with all the individuals whose information was used in the fraudulent applications. Our office is proud to be included as a part of the California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force, and we remain committed to leading investigations and vigorously prosecuting those who commit COVID-19 fraud.” “Eric Jaklitsch used stolen identities to fraudulently obtain millions of taxpayer dollars meant to help unemployed workers make ends meet during the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of prompt action by federal law enforcement, Jaklitsch’s scheme was curtailed. Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who defraud the unemployment insurance system will be held accountable for their actions. We remain fully committed to investigating these types of crimes with our law enforcement partners,” said Quentin Heiden, Special Agent-in-Charge, Western Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. “The FBI, in collaboration with our state and federal partners, exposed and dismantled this major fraud scheme. This scheme aimed to defraud the United States Government, the State of California, and unsuspecting residents of our state. Eric Jaklitsch represents one of several individuals who sought to take advantage of vulnerable victims during the recent pandemic,” said FBI Sacramento Special Agent in Charge Sean Ragan. “Today’s sentencing of Jaklitsch marks a significant milestone in the joint efforts of the FBI, the United States Attorney’s Office, and our partners within the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force.” DHS Inspector General, Dr. Joseph V. Cuffari, stated, “Eric Jaklitsch defrauded government programs meant to help Americans at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. DHS OIG will continue to prioritize pandemic-related fraud investigations and work with our law enforcement partners to bring perpetrators to justice.” The California EDD Case According to court documents, between October 2020 and December 2021, Jaklitsch executed his first fraud scheme by filing at least 180 fraudulent unemployment insurance claims with California Employment Development Department (EDD), seeking Pandemic Unemployment Assistance and other benefits under the federal Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. During the scheme, Jaklitsch collected personally identifiable information (PII) of numerous individuals from the dark web — including names, birth dates, and Social Security numbers — and used their identities to file fraudulent unemployment insurance claims. Typically these unemployment insurance claims were fraudulent because the claimants were not unemployed, they were not eligible for California unemployment insurance benefits, or Jaklitsch never had authority to file claims on their behalf. Since at least October 2020, EDD has partnered with ID.me — a private company used by the EDD for ID verification of claimants — to implement a system for verifying claimant identities before EDD can process unemployment insurance claims. An internal investigation conducted by ID.me identified Jaklitsch as a person conducting a possible fraud scheme and referred the case to federal law enforcement. In executing his fraudulent scheme, Jaklitsch submitted false information to ID.me. Jaklitsch requested that the unemployment insurance benefits be mailed to various addresses under his control. EDD approved dozens of the fraudulent claims and authorized Bank of America to mail out debit cards containing unemployment insurance benefits. Jaklitsch then activated the debit cards and used them to withdraw the benefits at ATMs. The scheme sought over $7.5 million in unemployment insurance benefits and caused EDD and the United States to incur actual losses of at least $3.4 million. The New Jersey SBA Case For the second case, according to court documents, between July 2020 and August 2020, Jaklitsch executed a scheme to defraud the Small Business Administration (SBA) by fraudulently acquiring COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL), which were loans meant to provide low-interest financing and grants to small businesses, renters, and homeowners in regions affected by declared disasters, like the COVID-19 pandemic. To obtain an EIDL, a qualifying business applied to the SBA and provided certain information about its operations through an online portal. The EIDL approval process required applicants to supply minimal eligibility documentation and to affirm that the information in the application was true and correct under the penalty of perjury and applicable criminal statutes. The amount of an EIDL was based, in part, on the information provided by the applicant, including the business’s gross revenue and cost of goods sold. Qualifying entities could use EIDL funds only on certain expenses, including fixed debts, payroll, and accounts payable. Jaklitsch or one or more co-schemers knowingly submitted fraudulent EIDL loan applications to the SBA in the names of entities that did not authorize the applications. The false information included, among other things, that (a) the schemers had the authority to submit the loan applications on behalf of the applying entities, (b) the entities’ gross revenues; (c) the entities’ costs of goods sold; and (d) bank account information purportedly belonging to the entities. These fraudulent applications sought and received over $1.2 million in EIDL loan funds that were sent to at least 14 separate bank accounts. Jaklitsch used a cellphone application to withdraw over $777,000 in cash out of the $1.2 million. This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Department of Labor – Office of the Inspector General, the Department of Homeland Security – Office of the Inspector General – Covid Fraud Unit, and the California Employment Development Department (EDD) – Investigation Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise N. Yasinow prosecuted the case. This effort is part of a California COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Strike Force operation, one of three interagency COVID-19 fraud strike force teams established by the U.S. Department of Justice. The California Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources in the Eastern and Central Districts of California and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors. The strike forces use prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds.


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

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – KEITH BOURGEOIS pled guilty on May 18, 2023 to violating the Federal Controlled Substances and Gun Control Acts before United States District Judge Eldon Fallon, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to court records, on April 21, 2022, law enforcement executed a search warrant of BOURGEOIS’s residence. During the search, agents seized drug paraphernalia from the apartment, including scales, packaging material, and razor blades. Agents also seized 27.054 grams of cocaine base and .645 grams of fentanyl from inside the apartment. Law enforcement also seized four firearms, several boxes of ammunition, and several thousand dollars in cash. BOURGEOIS pled guilty to Count 1 of the superseding bill of information, that charged him with possession with intent to distribute cocaine base in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). BOURGEOIS also pled guilty to Count 2, that charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). For Count 1, BOURGEOIS faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000, and a period of at least 3 years of supervised release. For Count 2, BOURGEOIS faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000 and a period of up to 3 years of supervised release. For each count, BOURGEOIS also faces payment of $100 mandatory special assessment fee. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The case was investigated by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Louisiana State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Jonathan L. Shih, Melissa Bücher, Rachal Cassagne, and Lynn Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit. * * *


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office to receive four additional prosecutors, including two for Indian Country cases

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: BILLINGS — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana will be receiving four new full-time federal prosecutor positions, including two positions dedicated to addressing cases arising in Indian Country, one position for violent crime and one position for eLitigation work, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said today. The U.S. Department of Justice allocated additional resources for U.S. Attorney’s Offices throughout the country from funding within the President’s budget passed last year. “These new Assistant United States Attorney positions are a significant investment from the Justice Department and will strengthen our ability to address public safety across the state, especially in Indian Country,” U.S. Attorney Laslovich said. One of the new Indian Country prosecutors will be located in either the Great Falls or Helena branch office, while the second new position will be in the Billings branch office. Duties will include prosecuting assaults, burglaries, sexual assaults, murders, and drug cases, and serving as a liaison between the reservation and the U.S. Attorney. Prosecutors assigned to Indian Country, which is a legal term in federal law, prosecute major crimes arising in six Montana Indian reservations within federal jurisdiction, including the Blackfeet, Rocky Boy’s, Fort Belknap, Fort Peck, Crow and Northern Cheyenne. The new violent crime prosecutor will be assigned to the Billings branch office, while the eLitigation prosecutor will be assigned to either Missoula, Helena or Billings. The eLitigation position will be the district’s first lawyer assigned to this field and will focus on enhancing the District’s electronic litigation efforts, particularly in the intake, processing, and production of discovery in criminal and civil cases. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana currently has 31 Assistant U.S. Attorneys working in its criminal and civil divisions in branch offices located in Missoula, Helena, Great Falls, and Billings. The hiring process is underway and expected to take several months. When the four positions are added, the office will have a total of 35 assistant U.S. attorneys. XXX


title: Picayune Man Sentenced to over 6 Years in Prison  for Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl

body_text: Gulfport, Miss. – A Picayune man was sentenced to 77 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration. Jourdan Rayshade Bolton, 20, was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Gulfport. According to court records, in December 2021, law enforcement became aware of a possible drug trafficking organization in Pearl River County involving Bolton and a co-conspirator. On February 8, 2022, a controlled purchase of fentanyl pills was conducted with Bolton and his co-conspirator at a Picayune residence in Pearl River County. On July 8, 2022, a search warrant was executed at the defendant’s residence. 60 fentanyl pills were recovered as well as four firearms. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose.


title: Ceres Man Pleads Guilty to Cyberstalking Two Victims

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — Kevin James Strutz, 51, of Ceres, pleaded guilty today to two counts of cyberstalking, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, Strutz secretly made a video recording of an adult female who stayed, as an Airbnb tenant, at the residence where Strutz was living in Ceres in February 2020. The victim ended her stay at the residence when she discovered a message on a cellphone that Strutz had left in a shared bathroom. Over the next several months, Strutz continued to contact the victim through multiple Facebook accounts. The messages became increasingly aggressive, and one included an image of the victim exiting a shower at the Airbnb residence that had been taken without her knowledge or consent. Strutz sent the image to her with a demand that she send him a sexually explicit video or he would send the photo to her friends and family. When investigators reviewed evidence, they learned that Strutz previously had sent a series of electronic messages and handwritten letters to a different female victim. More specifically, from approximately September 2018 through late December 2018, Strutz left 15 handwritten letters that the defendant had placed on the victim’s vehicle. Many of the letters contained threats designed to coerce the victim into engaging in sexual acts with Strutz. He also sent messages to the victim from five different Facebook accounts and attempted to contact the victim using phone calls and messages. This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Ceres Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa is prosecuting the case. Strutz is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Thurston on Nov. 4, 2023. Strutz faces a maximum statutory penalty for each count of five years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.


title: United States Attorney Ritz Announces Recent Prosecutions for “Switches” and Releases Public Service Announcement about Illegal Machine Gun Conversion Devices

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Memphis, TN – Today, United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz, along with federal and local law enforcement partners, announced the prosecution of 26 individuals for crimes involving machine gun conversion devices, also known as “switches” or auto sears. These switches transform a semiautomatic firearm into a machine gun capable of firing dozens of rounds of ammunition in a couple of seconds. United States Attorney Ritz also released a 60-second public service announcement, available here , about the danger posed by switches. The PSA features a trained agent demonstrating how these illegal devices turn a firearm into a machine gun that is essentially impossible to control. In the PSA, United States Attorney Ritz also explains that simply possessing a switch can result in significant penalties—up to 10 years in federal prison. United States Attorney Ritz said: “Switches are illegal and highly dangerous devices that convert semiautomatic firearms into machine guns. These devices threaten public safety and make the gun violence problem even worse. As our recent prosecutions show, we are vigorously enforcing the federal laws prohibiting machine gun conversion devices. I encourage the public to watch our new public service announcement and spread the word: anyone with a switch will face significant time in federal prison.” The U.S. Attorney’s Office has made prosecution of crimes involving switches a top priority. In recent months, Assistant United States Attorneys in both Memphis and Jackson have prosecuted 26 individuals for illegally possessing switches. These cases, which are detailed below, were investigated by federal and local law enforcement partners, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Memphis Police Department (MPD), and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO). “These illegal machine gun conversion devices more commonly referred to as ‘switches’ can significantly enhance the rate of fire of a semi-automatic firearm. This enhancement adds to the potential lethality of the weapon. Our communities are experiencing an unacceptable increase in firearm related violence and these devices have no place on our streets,” said Marcus Watson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Nashville. Memphis Police Chief, Cerelyn “CJ” Davis said, "Gun violence has increasingly plagued our city in recent years, causing death and trauma throughout. Switches and similar devices have only exacerbated these urgent issues in our community, prompting the need for stronger enforcement. We are grateful for U.S. Attorney Kevin Ritz and his team of prosecutors for aggressively seeking the maximum penalties for individuals who brazenly commit violence." “The illegal importation and use of switches create a significant threat to public safety. As simple to manufacture as they are quick to install, conversion devices turn regular firearms into a machine gun capable of inflicting tremendous harm in a split second. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) is committed to stopping the transnational criminal organizations that conspire to import these illegal firearm conversion kits used for violent criminal acts and harming the communities we serve,” said Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud, HSI Nashville. “The United States Marshals Service always stands ready to assist our local, state, and federal partners in executing arrest warrants for suspects who possess weapons with ‘switches’ or modifications. These suspects pose a consequential threat to our communities and will be a priority for our fugitive task forces,” said Tyreece Miller, United States Marshal, Western District of Tennessee. The following defendants have been convicted and sentenced for federal crimes involving switches. There is no parole in the federal system. • Prenagio Baines , 21. Baines was a member of AOB, a violent hybrid street gang operating in Memphis. On March 13, 2022, MPD officers encountered a vehicle parked on the wrong side of the road. Baines got out of the vehicle. Officers discovered a .40 caliber pistol with a machine gun conversion device attached. Baines admitted that he left the gun in the vehicle. He pled guilty to possessing a machine gun and was sentenced on February 27, 2023, to 24 months in prison. • Daniel Banks , 23. Banks fled from officers on foot during a traffic stop. He dropped a firearm with a switch after he jumped over a fence. Banks pled guilty to drug and gun crimes, including possession of a machine gun, and was sentenced on March 24, 2023, to 84 months. • Justin Hardaway , 23. Hardaway was a member of the Grape Street Crips, a violent street gang operating in Memphis. In March 2022, officers followed Hardaway driving a stolen Dodge Charger into the parking lot of a convenience store. The officers placed Hardaway into custody and recovered a .40 caliber Glock handgun with a machine gun conversion device attached. Hardaway pled guilty to possessing a machine gun and was sentenced on February 14, 2023, to 30 months. • Terrance Jones , 24. ATF learned that Jones was selling drugs, which led to a search warrant executed on his trap house. Jones had a home camera system that recorded him selling drugs with firearms. The switch charge derived from a separate incident—a shooting at Young Dolph’s memorial. Jones was in the car that fled the scene, and the evidence showed that he discarded a firearm with the switch. Jones pled guilty. He was sentenced on October 27, 2022, to 30 months on the switch charge and a consecutive 60 months on a separate firearm charge. • Daniel Kirtman , 25. Kirtman, a convicted felon, sold a short-barreled rifle. Agents arrested Kirtman and seized a Glock pistol equipped with an extended magazine and a machinegun conversion device. Kirtman pled guilty to firearm crimes and was sentenced on December 7, 2022, to 102 months in prison. • Michael Thomas , 24. Thomas sold and possessed multiple machine gun conversion devices. Thomas pled guilty to possessing the switches and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. He was sentenced on December 1, 2022, to 84 months. • Michael Naylor , 26. Investigators discovered Naylor worked at a gun store and was selling machine guns, switches, and other firearms. During the investigation, agents met with Naylor on two different occasions to purchase switches. In the first meeting, undercover ATF agents purchased three switches, and in the second meeting agents purchased one switch. On the final occasion, Naylor brought twenty switches to sell. ATF agents arrested him. Naylor pled guilty and was sentenced on March 3, 2023, to 27 months. The following defendants have been convicted of federal crimes involving switches and are awaiting sentencing. Under federal law, the penalty for possession of a machine gun is up to 10 years in prison. • Kameron Chatman , 20. Chatman was seen in a Facebook video with a switch. On March 9, 2023, he pled guilty in federal court in Jackson, Tennessee, to firearm crimes, including possession of a machine gun. • Avonta Gregory , 21. Gregory, a member of the AOB violent hybrid street gang in Memphis, pled guilty on May 1, 2023, to possessing a Glock firearm with a 22- round magazine and a machine gun conversion device. • Martavious Hodges , 23. Hodges, a member of the Fast Cash violent hybrid street gang in Memphis, sold firearms with switches on January 7, 2022, and January 26, 2022. On February 9, 2022, officers arrested Hodges with six switches before the third controlled delivery. He pled guilty on March 22, 2023, to possession of a machine gun. • Cameron Person , 20. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Person’s residence and located four switches, materials to put together another one, and two firearms. He pled guilty in federal court in Jackson, Tennessee, on March 7, 2023, to possession of a machine gun. • Michael Rimmer, Jr. , 21. Law enforcement recovered five firearms possessed by Rimmer. Two had switches. Rimmer pled guilty on March 20, 2023, to a drug crime and possession of machine guns. • Mitchell Shaw , 23. Shaw pled guilty on September 28, 2022, in federal court in Jackson, Tennessee, to possessing a machine gun. • Maurice Wilson , 38. Defendant possessed a switch and pled guilty on March 14, 2023, to firearm crimes. • Dionco Lowe , 25. During the investigation into Lowe, law enforcement recovered four firearms and a machine gun conversion device. Lowe pled guilty on May 9, 2023, to being a felon in possession of a firearm. The following defendants have been charged with federal crimes involving switches. Members of the public are reminded that an indictment is an accusation and only contains charges. Each defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and it is the government’s burden to prove each defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. • Nakiel Addison , 25. Addison was indicted on March 30, 2023, for federal gun crimes, including possessing a firearm with a switch. • Khamron Roberts , 25. Roberts was indicted on April 27, 2023, for federal gun crimes, including possessing a firearm with a switch. • Roosevelt Wilson , 42. Wilson was indicted on April 27, 2023, for federal gun crimes. His alleged crime involved ordering 25 switches from China. • Jaquan Bridges , 22. Bridges was indicted on April 27, 2023, for possessing a machine gun. His alleged crime involved shooting at a SCSO deputy on the interstate. Investigators recovered a gun with a switch. • Jaqerious Conner , 25. Conner was indicted on November 10, 2022, for drug and gun crimes, including possession of a machine gun. Conner was investigated for trafficking drugs and switches. Officers recovered multiple firearms, one of which was a Glock with a machine gun conversion device. • Quatavious Doggett , 23. Doggett was indicted on March 16, 2023, for being a felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a machine gun. His alleged crime involved possession of a firearm with a switch. • Pariss Johnson , 36, Paris Brown, 22, and Leroy Cloyd, 22. These three defendants were indicted on February 16, 2023, for possessing machine guns. During the investigation, law enforcement performed undercover purchases of machine gun conversion devices. • Timothy Williams , 25. Williams was indicted on February 7, 2023, for being a felon in possession of firearms and other crimes. During the investigation, law enforcement recovered four firearms and a machine gun conversion device. • Eddie Martinez , 25. Martinez was indicted on January 26, 2023, for possession of a machine gun. During the investigation agents recovered a Glock 9mm pistol with a switch and loaded with 23 rounds. Several defendants charged in this series of indictments are alleged to be convicted felons. Under federal law, is it illegal for an individual convicted of a felony to possess a firearm or ammunition. Anyone with information about switches or other federal gun crimes can call 1-800-ATF- GUNS (1-800-283-4867). United States Attorney Ritz offered his gratitude to the Assistant United States Attorneys who are prosecuting these cases, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated cases.


title: Huntington Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Crime

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Craig Alexander Halstead, 36, of Huntington, pleaded guilty today to receipt of child pornography. According to court documents and statements made in court, Halstead admitted to receiving 87,993 digital media files of child pornography via peer-to-peer file sharing programs from about August 2, 2019, until about August 18, 2022. Halstead further admitted that one of the digital media files was a video of an adult male sexually assaulting a prepubescent female. On May 20, 2021, Halstead possessed 3,970 images and 443 videos on his laptop and external hard drive depicting minor children subjected to sexually explicit conduct. Halstead admitted that many of the images and videos depict prepubescent minors and that several of the images and videos depict known child victims. On or about August 30, 2022, Halstead possessed 3,188 images and videos of child pornography in Huntington. Over 400 of those images and videos depict known child victims. Halstead admitted that the images included infants subjected to sadistic or masochistic conduct. Halstead further admitted to accessing and receiving digital media files of child pornography using peer-to-peer programs on November 29, 2022. Halstead is scheduled to be sentenced on August 21, 2023, and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 20 years in prison, five years and up to a lifetime of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Huntington Police Department. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Julie M. White is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:22-cr-231. ###


title: Michigan Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun Crime

body_text: HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Monroe Avant, 33, of Inkster, Michigan, was sentenced today to three years and six months in prison, to be followed by three years years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents and statements made in court, on September 13, 2021, law enforcement officers responded to a shooting on the 1600 block of 11th Avenue in Huntington. Officers encountered a vehicle with two men passed out in the driver and front passenger seats. Officers saw that the passenger had a semi-automatic pistol in his waistband. Avant admitted that he was the passenger and possessed a Taurus Model 709 9mm handgun. Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Avant is prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his felony conviction for first-degree robbery in Cabell County Circuit Court on May 6, 2014. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Huntington Police Department. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Stephanie S. Taylor prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:21-cr-245. ###


title: Methuen Man Pleads Guilty to Disaster Fund Fraud Scheme

body_text: BOSTON – A Methuen man pleaded guilty on May 18, 2023 in federal court in Boston to using stolen identities to fraudulently obtain Economic Injury Disaster Loan funds from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and to launder the funds. Ramon Joseph Cruz, Jr., 27, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and four counts of wire fraud and aiding and abetting. U.S. District Court Judge Richard G. Stearns scheduled sentencing for Aug. 20, 2023. Cruz was arrested and charged by criminal complaint in December 2020 along with alleged co-conspirator Darwyn Joseph. The defendants were subsequently indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2021. According to the charging documents, the defendants were involved in a conspiracy to use stolen identity information of United States citizens to apply for SBA Economic Injury Disaster Loans. Specifically, Cruz and, allegedly, Joseph used stolen identity information of U.S. citizens to open fraudulent bank accounts which were then linked to other fraudulent bank accounts set up to receive the SBA funds. Cruz and, allegedly, Joseph also received some of the debit cards associated with fraudulent bank accounts into which SBA funds were deposited, and then laundered those funds by using them to purchase large numbers of iPhones for re-sale. Cruz and, allegedly, Joseph also wired a portion of the funds to the Dominican Republic in furtherance of the scheme. Over $452,000 in SBA funds were fraudulently obtained in connection with this scheme. Approximately $250,000 of this money was used allegedly to purchase iPhones in Massachusetts and New Hampshire. The charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Michael J. Krol, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Elianna Nuzum and Adam Deitch of Levy’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case. 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 . The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Detroit Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug Crime

body_text: HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – Desmond Devon Magee, also known as “Rich,” 27, of Detroit, was sentenced today to four years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for distribution of a quantity of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, on October 18, 2022, Magee sold approximately 29 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant inside an Eighth Street business in Huntington. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Cabell County Sheriff’s Department. United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph F. Adams prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:22-cr-210. ###