title: Tucson Man Indicted on Child Sexual Exploitation Charges

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – David Berry Garmarnik, 46, of Tucson, was indicted last week on 20 counts of Attempted Production of Child Pornography, 20 counts of Attempted Enticement and Coercion of a Minor, and five counts of Receipt of Child Pornography. The indictment alleges that in July 2024, Garmarnik was identified as a suspect in a child exploitation investigation. Law enforcement officers developed evidence that Garmarnik was using Skype to conduct live streaming shows of child sexual abuse being committed in the Philippines. Garmarnik allegedly sent payments to sex traffickers via money service wire transfers, and the sex traffickers and Garmarnik would then conduct the live sex shows. Since 2017, Garmarnik allegedly participated in dozens of shows by directing traffickers on how to sexually abuse children. Attempted Production of Child Pornography carries a sentence of between 15 and 30 years in prison for each count; Attempted Enticement and Coercion of a Minor carries a sentence of between 10 years to life in prison for each count; and Receipt of Child Pornography carries a sentence of between 5 and 20 years in prison for each count. Each offense also carries a fine of up to $250,000 and at least five years to life of supervised release. An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant United States Attorney Nathaniel J. Walters, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-24-08214-TUC-RM RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-166_Garmarnik # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Three New Haven County Residents Charged with Trafficking Counterfeit Pills and Firearms

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, today announced that on November 25, 2024, a federal grand jury in New Haven returned a nine-count indictment charging LINDSEY EDWARDS , also known as “G-ride,” 45, of Hamden; MATTHEW SANTOS , 20, of Waterbury; and PARIS HUCKABY , 25, of New Haven, with various offenses related to the trafficking of counterfeit ecstasy pills and firearms. Edwards, Santos, and Huckaby were arrested yesterday. They appeared in New Haven federal court and entered pleas of not guilty to the charges. Edwards is detained and Santos and Huckaby were each released on $100,000 bonds. As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) New Haven Safe Streets Task Force has been investigating a drug trafficking organization led by Lindsey Edwards. The investigation included controlled purchases and the seizure of various narcotics, including multi-colored pills pressed to look like ecstasy, which contain methamphetamine and metonitazene, a synthetic opioid with a potency similar to or greater than fentanyl. During the investigation, law enforcement seized more than six kilograms of methamphetamine pills, approximately 600 grams of metonitazene pills, and approximately 300 grams of pills containing a synthetic amphetamine. Investigators also determined that Edwards and Santos trafficked firearms. The indictment charges Edwards and Huckaby with one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, methamphetamine and metonitazene. In addition, Edwards is charged with three counts, and Huckaby with one count, of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. As to the drug conspiracy charge, based on the type and quantity of drug attributed to each defendant, Edwards faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of life, and Huckaby faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. The substantive charge of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 40 years. The indictment also charges Edwards and Santos with one count of engaging in a firearms trafficking conspiracy, and with one count of unlawful transfer of a firearm. In addition, Edwards is charged with one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon, one count of unlawful possession of ammunition by a felon, and one count of using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The firearms trafficking and possession charges each carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 15 years. As to Edwards, the charge of using, carrying, or possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense carries a mandatory consecutive term of imprisonment of at least five years. U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This matter is being investigated by the FBI Safe Streets Gang Task Force, the New Haven Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie T. Levick and Brendan J. Keefe through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Rochester man accused of threatening and stalking a police officer

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: ROCHESTER, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Orlando Justice, 37, of Rochester, NY, was arrested and charged by criminal complaint with transmission of threats in interstate commerce and stalking, which carry a maximum penalty of five years in prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan K. McGuire, who is handling the case, stated that according to the complaint, on November 23, 2024, a Rochester Police Officer (Victim) participated in the arrest of Justice at the RTS Bus Terminal on St. Paul Street for Trespass and Resisting Arrest. Justice was intoxicated at the time of arrest and was transported to Strong Memorial Hospital. While at Strong, he threatened the arresting officers, spit at them, and told officers that he would find them and come to their houses. Justice was charged and issued an appearance ticket. The following day, the Victim received a series of phone calls on his personal cell phone from an unknown number, which he did not answer. After receiving yet another call, the Victim answered, and Justice identified himself as the caller. Justice said, “I told you that I would find you,” and that he knew the Victim’s personal information and where he lived, reciting the Victim’s home address. Justice told the Victim he “messed with the wrong one” and that he was “a different breed of human.” The Victim told Justice not to call him again and hung up the phone. A few minutes later, the Victim received a FaceTime video call from Justice, who was demanding that the Victim give him the names of the other RPD officers who were present during his arrest. On the evening of November 23, 2024, Greece Police and Rochester Police went to Justice’s residence in an unsuccessful attempt to arrest him. Moments later, the Victim answered a Facetime video call from Justice, who asked, “Why your friends come to my house?” A few minutes later, Justice called 911 and asked to speak with a sergeant, falsely claiming that the Victim was contacting him and harassing him. Justice asked to file a complaint against Victim 1 for use of excessive force. The sergeant, who was unfamiliar with Justice’s prior conduct and interactions with the Victim, offered to send officers to take his complaint, but he refused and insisted he would only meet with the sergeant one-on-one. Justice made an initial appearance this morning before U.S. Magistrate Judge Payson and was detained pending a detention hearing. The complaint is the result of an investigation by the Rochester Police Department, under the direction of Chief David Smith, the Greece Police Department, under the direction of Chief Michael Wood, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the New York State Police, under the direction of Acting Major Kevin Sucher. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: Nine Members of Multi-State Money Laundering Organization Charged in Wide-Ranging Conspiracy

component: Criminal Division

body_text: An indictment was unsealed yesterday in Nashville, Tennessee, charging nine members of a multi-state money laundering organization responsible for laundering millions of dollars derived from internet fraud, including business email compromise schemes. The nine defendants were arrested in a takedown coordinated across three jurisdictions. According to court documents, Samson A. Omoniyi, 43 of Houston; Misha L. Cooper, 50 of Murfreesboro, Tennessee; Robert A. Cooper, 66 of Murfreesboro; Carlesha L. Perry, 36 of Houston; Whitney D. Bardley, 30 of Florissant, Missouri; Lauren O. Guidry, 32 of Houston; Caira Y. Osby, 44 of Houston; Dazai S. Harris, 34 of Murfreesboro; and Edward D. Peebles, 35, of Murfreesboro, were charged with conspiracy to engage in money laundering. As alleged in the indictment, the defendants were members of a long-running money laundering organization operating since approximately November 2016 in and around Tennessee, Texas, and across the country. The conspirators allegedly structured the organization so that recruiters or “herders” recruited and directed participants or “money mules” to launder money obtained from internet frauds that targeted businesses and individuals in the United States and abroad. The defendants allegedly used sham and front companies to conceal the fraud proceeds and enrich the members of the conspiracy. The conspiracy is alleged to have agreed to launder more than $20 million in fraud proceeds. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; Acting U.S. Attorney Thomas J. Jaworski for the Middle District of Tennessee; and Assistant Director Chad Yarbrough of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division made the announcement. The defendants each face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison if convicted. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI Nashville Field Office and Salt Lake City Field Office, Boise Resident Agency are investigating the case. FBI’s Forensic Accountant Support Team provided valuable assistance in the investigation. Trial Attorneys Kenneth Kaplan and Jasmin Salehi Fashami of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney S. Carran Daughtrey for the Middle District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Second Conviction in Illegal Firearms Conversion Device Case

component: USAO - New Mexico

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque woman pleaded guilty in federal court to engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and possession of a machine gun conversion device after she and her son negotiated and sold machine gun conversion devices to an undercover ATF agent in 2023. According to court documents, the investigation began in December 2022 when the ATF identified Joe Jasso's Instagram account advertising machine gun conversion devices. Joe Jasso subsequently deleted the account in January 2023, however ATF agents were able to quickly identify a new account with similar identifiers, including Joe's distinctive skeleton hand tattoo. Undercover operations led to two controlled purchases from Joe Jasso and his mother, Rachel Jasso , 43, in February 2023. On February 7, 2023, undercover agents conducted two controlled buys with the Jassos. During the first exchange, Joe Jasso demonstrated how to install a Glock Switch on a firearm. Rachael Jasso was present at both exchanges and offered assistance if needed. On February 16, 2023, ATF agents executed a search warrant at the Jasso residence. During the search, agents recovered ten firearms, five machine gun conversion devices, a large amount of ammunition, numerous magazines, and a 3D printer used to manufacture these devices. Neither Joe nor Rachael Jasso held the necessary federal firearms license to legally possess or sell these devices. Additionally, between July 2020 and February 2023, thirteen firearms purchased by Rachael Jasso were recovered in criminal investigations. Rachael Jasso will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not yet been scheduled. At sentencing, Rachael Jasso faces up to ten years imprisonment and fines up to $250,000. Upon her release from prison, Rachael Jasso will be subject to up to three years of supervised release. On June 11, 2024, Joe Jasso pleaded guilty to engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license and possession of a machine gun conversion device. Joe Jasso remains in custody pending sentencing, which is not currently scheduled. At sentencing, he faces 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Brendan Iber, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, made the announcement today. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel A. Hurtado is prosecuting the case. Machine gun conversion devices and auto sears are illegal devices that transform semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons capable of continuous firing with a single trigger pull. The possession, manufacture, and sale of these devices without proper licensing is a federal offense carrying severe penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and fines up to $250,000. The proliferation of these devices poses an immediate and critical threat to public safety. Between 2018 and 2023, the ATF recovered thousands of machine gun conversion devices, indicating an alarming trend in their availability and use. Violent street gangs are increasingly employing these devices, devastating communities and neighborhoods with unprecedented firepower. This dramatic increase in illegal automatic weapons puts both civilians and law enforcement at extreme risk. Officers responding to incidents may find themselves severely outgunned, facing weapons capable of firing hundreds of rounds per minute. The potential for mass casualties in such encounters is staggering. Law enforcement agencies are racing against time to intercept these devices before they can be used in violent crimes. Public cooperation is crucial in combating this threat. If you have information about illegal firearms or conversion devices, please contact the ATF immediately: Call: 1-888-ATF-Tips (1-888-283-8477) Email: ATFTips@atf.gov Visit: www.atf.gov/atf-tips Your tip could save lives and prevent these dangerous weapons from falling into the wrong hands. The time to act is now, before our community fall victim to the devastating impact of these illegal automatic weapons. # # #


title: United States Attorney’s Office Honors Native American Heritage Month

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington - Each year in November, communities across the United States celebrate National Native American Heritage Month. The Department of Justice also recognizes the tremendous contributions of Native American communities to the rich heritage and culture of Eastern Washington. The 2024 national theme for Native American Heritage Month is Affirming Native Voices: Visibility, Leadership and Service . Consistent with this theme, the U.S. Attorney’s Office took part in several community events and presentations throughout November, including in Yakima, Spokane, and at the Gonzaga School of Law. On Friday, November 8, 2024, United States Attorney Vanessa Waldref, Executive Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Derrig, Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Seal, and Assistant United States Attorney Bree Black Horse attended the Yakama Nation Veteran’s Powwow in White Swan, Washington. At the Powwow, U.S. Attorney Waldref and AUSA Black Horse recognized Missing and Murdered (MMIP) survivors, families, and their advocates in a red dress special and honor song. U.S. Attorney Waldref’s efforts to improve public safety in Indian country and the leadership she has demonstrated in improving the federal response to MMIP, including bringing the Northwest MMIP AUSA position to the Eastern District of Washington, also were recognized at the event. On Friday, November 12, 2024, AUSA Black Horse presented at the Yakima Domestic Violence Coalition Meeting, where AUSA Black Horse discussed the importance of applying a trauma-informed approach to domestic violence and child abuse involving American Indian and Alaska Native survivors. AUSA Black Horse also provided a training regarding culturally sensitive practices for helping victims of violent crimes in Indian country. On Thursday, November 14, 2024, AUSA Bree Black Horse, alongside the Yakama Nation, the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), the Washington Attorney General’s Office, and the Washington State Patrol took part in a community presentation at the Yakama Nation Winter Lodge. AUSA Black Horse, along with several of our state, federal, local, and Tribal partners shared resources available to families of victims to help them achieve justice for their loved ones. On November 18, 2024, AUSA Black Horse shared experiences from her legal career and the reasons she was led to serve Tribal communities through her work at the Justice Department with the Spokane Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol. Later that same evening, U.S. Attorney Waldref and AUSA Black Horse led a panel discussion at the Gonzaga University School of Law hosted by the Center for Civil and Human Rights. Together, U.S. Attorney Waldref and AUSA Black Horse discussed the Department of Justice’s efforts to address the MMIP crisis and celebrated the advocacy of indigenous women in bringing critical resources to support Tribal justice and address the root causes of the MMIP crisis. On November 21, 2024, The Justice Management Division (JMD) Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Staff and DOJ Office of Tribal Justice hosted a nation-wide virtual program in observance of Native American Heritage Month. AUSA Black Horse presented on her role as an AUSA dedicated to prosecuting MMIP cases in the northwestern United States. “My office is committing to seeking justice for all who call Eastern Washington home,” stated U.S. Attorney Waldref. “The United States has a special trust relationship with each of the Tribes in Eastern Washington. We will continue to engage in listening sessions and engage in community outreach to ensure victims’ voices are heard and their cries for help are answered.” More information on Native American Heritage Month is available at https://www.nativeamericanheritagemonth.gov/ . Additional information regarding the Washington State Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and People Task Force is available at https://www.atg.wa.gov/washington-state-missing-and-murdered-indigenous-women-and-people-task-force .


title: Spokane Accountant Sentenced for Stealing More than $715,000 From Spokane Medical Practice

body_text: Spokane, Washington – On November 27, 2024, United States District Judge Thomas O. Rice, sentenced Carol Dacaymat Casilla to 24 months in federal prison in connection with Casilla’s fraud and embezzlement of more than $715,000 from a Spokane medical practice at which she was employed between 2020 and 2023. Judge Rice also imposed 3 years of supervised release, as well as restitution to the victims in the amount of $715,255.09. According to court documents and information presented at the sentencing hearing, between May 2020 and March 2023, Casilla was employed as an accountant by Spokane Dermatology Clinic (SDC), a dermatological practice located in Spokane. While employed at SDC, Casilla used her position to fraudulently issue company checks to herself and deposit them into her own personal accounts, and to make electronic funds transfers using company funds toward her personal credit cards. According to court documents, some of the transfers were made to a fictitious company that Casilla created in order to make it appear as though the transfers were for legitimate company expenditures. Casilla made hundreds of fraudulent transfers in this manner, stealing more than $715,000 in total. “Ms. Casilla betrayed her employer’s trust and stole hundreds of thousands of dollars,” stated United States Attorney Vanessa Waldref. “Accountants and financial professionals like Ms. Casilla are given a significant amount of control over a company’s finances. This sentence should send a message that those who abuse their positions of trust to enrich themselves will be held accountable. I want to especially commend the stellar investigative work in this case done by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Spokane Resident Agency. We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who commit fraud and financial crimes.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Spokane Resident Agency. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. 2:2023-cr-00085-TOR


title: Raleigh Basketball Scout and Life Coach Convicted for Obtaining Nearly $300,000 in Fraudulent COVID-19 Relief Loans in Nationwide Scheme

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – Following four days of testimony before a federal jury, a Raleigh man and business owner pled guilty to a Bank Fraud and Wire Fraud, that netted the man almost $300,000 in fraudulent Paycheck Protection Act (PPP) COVID-19 loans. This fraud was part of a multimillion-dollar national scheme, and, to date, more than 30 defendants have pled guilty and 26 have been sentenced. “Lamont Taylor ran a business scouting players who hustled on the court, but ran his own hustle off the court, fraudulently securing over $300,000 in PPP relief funds,” said U.S. Attorney Michael F. Easley, Jr. “While most of us were trying to help our neighbors navigate a global pandemic, this talent scout and ‘life coach’ was helping himself to relief funds. We will continue to investigate and prosecute those that choose fraud over goodwill.” “The Paycheck Protection Program was meant to aid those affected the most during the pandemic,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins, Charlotte Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Today’s plea shows the defendant conspired to fraudulently obtain federal funds. Through our partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and other federal law enforcement partners, our special agents will continue to pursue individuals who try to exploit federal relief programs for their personal gain.” According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Earl Lamont Taylor, age 52, worked with Quentin Jackson and Edward Whitaker to obtain fraudulent PPP loans. Jackson pled guilty in November 2022 and Whitaker pled guilty in January 2023. Taylor was referred to Whitaker by Jackson, and, with Whitaker’s assistance, Taylor applied for and received loans for two businesses, Get Me Recruited, LLC (a basketball scouting and tournament staging business) and Changing the Game Life Coach (purportedly a life coaching service for young athletes). The total received for both loans was $291,665.50, and Taylor paid Whitaker $72,917.24 for his assistance. In addition to the fraudulent loans, the trial evidence showed that Taylor also cashed alleged “payroll” checks for Jackson on Jackson’s PPP loans. Information presented at the trial showed that Get Me Recruited, LLC did have business in 2019 and 2020, but employees listed on the loan application testified that they never made more than $2,000 per year and were not regularly salaried employees. The loan application submitted by Taylor listed their annual salaries as being between $110,145 and $128,416. In contrast, Changing the Game Life Coach did not appear to have any meaningful business during the relevant period and employees testified that they had never done any work for the company, and the bank account associated with the business was only open to receive the loan disbursement. Taylor faces up to 30 years in prison when sentenced. Other defendants that have been sentenced in the broader “Loanstarters” PPP scheme involving Edward Whitaker include: Albert Eugene Miller, Jr. [Case No. 5-22-CR-00290-D] Jonathan Fleming [Case No. 5-22-CR-00337-D] Nekita Hooks [Case No. 5-23-CR-00025-D] Denise Coit Alston [Case No. 5-23-CR-00077-D] Monica Faye Barnes [Case No. 5:23-CR-00094-D] Dontrell Barnes [Case No. 5-23-CR-00094-D] Isaac Lamont Dawson [Case No. 5:23-CR-0097-D] Irene Edwards [Case No. 5-23-CR-00098-D] Natosia Jerome Jenkins [Case No. 5:23-CR-00167-D] Ronald L. Jones [Case No. 5:23-CR-00339-D] Delvin Dashavone Felder [Case No. 5:23-CR-00198] Shun Lamont Gibbs [Case No. 5:23-CR-00346-D] Teresa Ann McRae [Case No. 5:23-CR-00313-D] Dontae Antonio Murphy [Case No. 5:24-CR-00072] Jackson Ndoyo [Case No. 5-23-CR-00118-D] Terron Cortez Parker [Case No. 5-23-CR-00081-D] Ayyub Abdur Rasheed [Case No. 5:23-CR-00314-D] Karim Aziz Razzak [Case No. 5:23-CR-00324] Toni A. Smith [Case No. 5:23-CR-00312-D] Darian Casteele Tyler [Case No. 5:23-CR-00338-D] Shakeerah Kaneisha Yvette Vinson [Case No. 5-23-CR-00027-D] Anthony S. Whitaker [Case No. 5:23-CR-00311-D] James Elton Watson Case No. 5:23-CR-00323-D] Shara Monique Wells [Case No. 5:23-CR-00323-D] Kami D. Woodard [Case No. 5-23-CR-00095-D] Lenille Woodard [Case No. 5-23-CR-00138-D] Defendants awaiting sentencing include: Hanif Abdul-Hakim [Case No. 5:24-CR-00109-D] Schunda Coleman [Case No. 5-22-CR-00257-D] Quentin Jackson [Case No. 5-22-CR-180-D] Everett M. McBride [Case No. 5:24-CR-00036-D] Edward Whitaker [Case No. 5-22-CR-00257-D] The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who were economically suffering from the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act and additional appropriations authorized up to $649 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses through the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Financial institutions issued the PPP loans, which were guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA). Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III accepted the plea. Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations is investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys William M. Gilmore and David Beraka are prosecuting 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. 5:23-CR-00335-D.


title: Warrenton woman sentenced to two years in prison for embezzling over $1M from homeowner associations

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A Warrenton woman was sentenced today to two years in prison for wire fraud involving the pilfering of over a million dollars from homeowner associations (HOAs) she managed. According to court documents, in 2012, Rose Kasande Bailey, 60, formed Rosewood Management and Consulting Services, LLC, a property management company in Fairfax that specialized in property management for HOAs. As of March 2023, Rosewood provided management services to over 70 HOAs in Virginia, including properties in Lorton, Reston, Falls Church, and Leesburg. The HOAs contracted with Rosewood to collect dues from residents to maintain and repair the properties and common areas. Rosewood maintained two operating bank accounts, while each HOA opened one or more bank accounts into which dues and fees were deposited. Bailey maintained signing authority over all Rosewood accounts as well as HOA accounts. Rosewood was required to receive HOA board approval for any single unbudgeted disbursement in excess of $1,000. In May 2018, Bailey began transferring funds from certain HOA bank accounts to Rosewood bank accounts to cover expenses that were not approved by HOA boards. The illicit transfers, totaling approximately $1.1 million, were used to cover Rosewood payroll and business rent expenses, credit card payments, Bailey’s personal expenses, and payments on business loans associated with Bailey acquiring a new HOA management firm. When HOAs requested updates on their operating accounts, Bailey provided altered bank statements to conceal the transfers. Prior to the discovery of Bailey’s theft, one of Rosewood’s HOAs decided to seek new management. To account for her illicit transfers, Bailey provided falsified bank statements and transferred $600,000 from other HOA bank accounts to make the departing HOA whole. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and David E. Geist, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office's Criminal and Cyber Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth R. Simon Jr. prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-187.


title: Ruskin Drug Trafficker Sentenced To Federal Prison

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced Javier Alejandro Anaya-Leal (31, Ruskin) to eight years in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine, and possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute. The court also ordered Anaya-Leal to forfeit $9,750, which are traceable to proceeds of the offense. Anaya-Leal entered a guilty plea on July 11, 2024. According to court documents, from 2022 through 2023, Anaya-Leal possessed with the intent to distribute more than 1,400 grams of methamphetamine and four kilograms of cocaine. In July, August, and September 2022, Anaya-Leal sold more than 1,400 grams of 97% pure methamphetamine to a confidential informant (CI) working with the Drug Enforcement Administration. On March 4, 2024, Anaya-Leal agreed to sell two to three kilograms of cocaine. The CI met with Anaya-Leal at his residence in Hillsborough County to complete the transaction. A courier, later identified as Matias Sanchez Cardosa, arrived a short while later with the cocaine. After the courier’s arrival, the CI left the residence to retrieve payment for the drugs. During this time, law enforcement agents moved in to arrest Anaya-Leal and Cardosa. Four kilograms of cocaine were discovered in Cardosa’s vehicle. Anaya-Leal was supposed to receive all four of the kilograms to distribute throughout the Middle District of Florida. Matias Sanchez Cardosa was sentenced to 14 years in federal prison on October 21, 2024. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale.


title: Justice Department Secures Agreement with Maine to Ensure Children with Behavioral Health Disabilities Can Live at Home

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: The Justice Department announced today that it secured a settlement agreement to resolve its lawsuit alleging that Maine violates Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v. L.C . by unnecessarily segregating children with behavioral health disabilities in psychiatric hospitals, residential facilities and a state-operated juvenile detention facility. “This agreement reflects the Civil Rights Division’s commitment to ensuring that children with disabilities can live at home surrounded by the love and support of their families rather than isolated away in facilities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “We know that too many children with behavioral health disabilities end up in juvenile justice settings or in out-of-home placements, often in different states far from their families, disrupting their lives in ways that can cause permanent harm. Under this agreement, more children will have access to community-based services and in-home behavioral health services so that they can grow up surrounded by family and loved ones.” “Mainers with disabilities, particularly children, must be able to access the critical services they need in their homes and within their communities,” said U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee for the District of Maine. “Maine’s geographical expanse is a treasure, but children with behavioral health disabilities cannot be needlessly limited to accessing necessary services and supports in facilities away from their families. This agreement prioritizes Maine’s children and ensures the availability of crucial services to allow them to pursue their greatest potential and ease the emotional toll on their caregivers.” The department sued Maine in September, following a thorough investigation and a public letter of findings notifying Maine of the violation. The lawsuit alleged that Maine limited families’ access to needed behavioral health services for their children to live in the community. These services can include assistance with daily activities, behavior management and individual or family counseling. Community-based behavioral health services also include crisis services that can help prevent a child from being institutionalized during a mental health crisis. Absent these services, Maine children with disabilities would enter emergency rooms, come into contact with law enforcement and remain in institutions. The agreement resolves the department’s allegations and requires Maine to make significant improvements to ensure children with behavioral health disabilities can receive the services they need in the community, including: Help hundreds of children remain with their families or foster families with the services they need to avoid emergency department stays and institutions; Help children move out of institutions, including the Long Creek juvenile detention facility, and instead receive services at home, if their needs can be met there and they and their families want them to be at home; Identify children with behavioral health disabilities and timely furnish them the full range of services they are eligible for at home; Provide children with care coordination designed so that children with the most intense behavioral health disabilities can be successful at home; Address any current or future workforce shortages of community-service providers. This includes providing payment rates and support for community providers to enable children they serve to return to or remain at home long-term; Improve oversight of community providers and monitor desired outcomes and timeliness of services; and Provide prompt mobile crisis interventions to help children avoid entering emergency departments or law enforcement contact. The parties have agreed that the federal district court will retain jurisdiction to enforce the agreement and that an independent reviewer will evaluate the state’s compliance. Enforcement of the ADA’s Integration Mandate Nationwide This agreement is the most recent example of the Civil Rights Division’s enforcement of the ADA’s “integration mandate”—that is, the right to receive services in the most integrated setting appropriate. The Division has worked to enforce the integration mandate to address the segregation of people with disabilities in all its varied forms. For example, a 2023 agreement with Alameda County, California, provides relief to adults with mental health disabilities facing a similar dearth of services that resulted in their admission to emergency departments and jails. The Division has also won court-ordered relief for children with physical disabilities who were unnecessarily segregated in nursing homes in Florida. Florida is now required to provide those children the services they need to move out of nursing facilities. And last month, the Division secured an agreement with Colorado to ensure adults unnecessarily segregated in its nursing facilities have meaningful opportunities to live at home. The Civil Rights Division’s enforcement of the integration mandate has brought change across the country for people with disabilities of all ages and those who have been segregated from their communities. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available on its website at www.justice.gov/crt . Those interested in finding out more about the ADA may visit www.ada.gov . Members of the public may report possible civil right violations at www.civilrights.justice.gov . View the settlement agreement here .


title: Man Charged After Injuring Flight Attendant

body_text: A man who injured a flight attendant in an attempt to exit a plane mid-air has been federally charged, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton. Abdul-al-Jabbar Oloruntoba Olaiya, 29, was charged via criminal complaint with interfering with a flight crew by assault or intimidation within the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States. According to court documents, on Nov. 19, roughly two hours into the flight from Milwaukee to Dallas, Mr. Olaiya became frustrated with a flight attendant as she worked the forward galley. Witnesses told law enforcement they heard Mr. Olaiya tell her he was “captain of this flight” and needed to “get off the plane.” He then allegedly charged the flight attendant in an attempt to access the aircraft exit door. The flight attendant, identified in court documents as S.J., used her body to shield the door and was injured in the scuffle. Able-bodied passengers rushed to assist her. They subdued Mr. Olaiya and duct-taped his wrists and ankles. With only about 30 minutes left on the flight, pilots made the decision to continue to DFW, calling the tower for priority landing and taxing. Upon landing, Mr. Olaiya was removed from the plane by officers and taken in for a mental evaluation. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Mr. Olaiya is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office and the Dallas Fort Worth International Airport Department of Public Safety conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Levi Thomas is prosecuting the case.


title: Federal Judge Sentences Man to More Than 14 Years in Prison for Carjacking Vehicles at Gunpoint in Chicago

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

body_text: CHICAGO — A federal judge has sentenced a man to fourteen and a half years in prison for carjacking multiple vehicles at gunpoint in Chicago. On a single afternoon in April 2018, EARRIOUS MOORE stole three cars, attempted to steal two others, and shot two people during a series of crimes in Chicago. In the final attempted carjacking, a victim sitting in a Mercedes-Benz in the 1400 block of North DuSable Lake Shore Drive in the city’s Gold Coast neighborhood was shot in the back of the shoulder and subsequently treated at a hospital. Moore ran from that vehicle and was apprehended by Chicago Police officers in the lobby of a nearby building. Moore, 30, of Chicago, pleaded guilty earlier this year to carjacking, attempted carjacking, and firearm charges. U.S. District Judge Elaine E. Bucklo imposed the sentence on Friday during a hearing in federal court in Chicago. The sentence was announced by Morris Pasqual, Acting United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois, Christopher Amon, Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Division of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, and Larry Snelling, Superintendent of the Chicago Police Department. “The violence and terror the defendant wrought on the victims of his carjacking spree will likely never be forgotten by his victims and those who witnessed these appalling events,” Assistant U.S. Attorney Alejandro G. Ortega argued in the government’s sentencing memorandum.


title: Alabama Man Indicted For Transporting An Individual To Engage In Prostitution

body_text: Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Ray Thomas (33, Mobile, AL) with inducement to travel to engage in prostitution and transportation of an individual to engage in prostitution. If convicted on all counts, Thomas faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. According to the indictment, in December 2023, Thomas persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced an individual to travel from Massachusetts to Florida for the purpose of engaging in prostitution and sexual activity. He also transported the individual from Massachusetts to Florida. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.


title: U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Charge Man for Gas Station Robbery in Shiprock

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A man is charged with robbing the 7 2 11 Gas Station in Shiprock, New Mexico, after allegedly assaulting a cashier and stealing $276 from the register. Ryan Douglas Yazzie , 27, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. According to the criminal complaint, on the morning of October 31, 2024, Yazzie allegedly entered the 7 2 11 Gas Station in Shiprock, New Mexico, located within the Navajo Nation reservation. Yazzie is accused of pushing a cashier to the ground and stealing the cash register drawer containing $276.00 before fleeing on foot. If convicted on the current charges, Yazzie faces up to 20 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release. U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. # # #


title: Arizona Man Charged with Defrauding at Least 54 Victims in Investment Fraud Scheme

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Last week, a federal grand jury in Phoenix returned a 19-count indictment against Anthonie Ruinard, Jr., 39, of Chandler, for Wire Fraud and Transactional Money Laundering. The indictment alleges that Ruinard scammed at least 54 victims out of more than $5.6 million through an investment fraud scheme operated under the guise of a business called Legacy Investors Group Inc. Ruinard falsely portrayed himself as a successful investor worth over $470 million. He promised victim-investors guaranteed rates of return—generally 5% to 6% per month—through investments in venture capital, private equity, and real estate. While some of the early victim-investors received some initial payments to perpetuate the fraud, others lost their entire investment. Ruinard largely used the victims’ money for himself, including on luxury vehicles (for example, the purchase of an armored vehicle for $344,000), general living expenses, casino gambling, credit card payments, and rental expenses. A conviction for wire fraud carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or both. A conviction for transactional money laundering carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000, or both. An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The Federal Bureau of Investigation – Phoenix Division conducted the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution. If you believe you were defrauded by the defendant, and have not previously contacted the FBI, please reach out to the following email address: LegacyGroupVictims@fbi.gov or fill out the questionnaire at this link: https://forms.fbi.gov/legacygroupvictims/view CASE NUMBER: CR-24-01904-PHX-SMB RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-163_Ruinard # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Guilty Plea in Domestic Violence Case

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man pleaded guilty in federal court to assault of dating partner by strangling. According to court documents, between May 5 and May 11, 2022, Kevin El Cavazone , 41, assaulted his ex-girlfriend by strangling her on the Mescalero Apache Reservation. At sentencing, El Cavazone faces up to 10 years in federal prison. There is no parole in the federal system. U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant United States Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case. # # #


title: Plant City Man Indicted For Unlawfully Removing His Child From The United States

body_text: Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Jet Sern Law (36, Plant City) with international parental kidnapping. If convicted, Law faces a maximum penalty of three years in federal prison. According to the indictment, in August 2024, Law removed a minor child from the United States with the intent to obstruct the parental rights of the child’s mother. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the FBI. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.


title: U.S. Attorney's Office Secures Sentencing of Previously Convicted Felon for Firearm Offense Following Conviction by Jury

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after being convicted by a federal jury of being a felon in possession of a firearm. This was his second federal conviction for such an offense. According to court documents, on December 11, 2021, Jesus Coronado , 43, brandished a firearm at his former girlfriend and another man in a smoke shop parking lot. Following the incident, both parties fled the scene in their vehicles and the victim called 911. Screen capture of surveillance video showing Coronado confronting the victim. Coronado pointing a firearm at the victim Las Cruces Police Department (LCPD) officers obtained an arrest warrant for Coronado and located his vehicle at a Las Cruces residence. After several days of surveillance, officers observed a male matching Coronado 's description in the driveway of the residence on December 13, 2021. When commanded to stop, Coronado fled. Officers set up a perimeter around the residence and called for occupants to exit. While maintaining the perimeter, an officer observed a firearm on the roof of the residence. Coronado was later found hiding between a tree and a small cinder block wall across the street. Photo of firearm that was located on the roof The firearm recovered from the roof was sent for DNA testing, which returned a match for Coronado 's DNA As a previously convicted felon, Coronado was prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition. Coronado was federally charged on February 8, 2022, and indicted on June 21, 2023, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Following a two-day trial, a jury found Coronado guilty on February 14, 2024. Upon his release from prison, Coronado will be subject to up to three years of supervised release. U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Las Cruces Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher McNair and Richard Williams prosecuted the case. # # #


title: Worcester Man Charged with Sexually Exploiting Minors

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Worcester man has been charged for his alleged sexual exploitation of two minor females and filming the assault. Antonio Merced, 26, was charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a minor. The defendant is in state custody on related offenses and will appear in federal court in Worcester at a later date. According to the criminal complaint, on or about July 13, 2024, Merced allegedly created video recordings of himself sexually assaulting two minor victims. Merced was previously arrested in September 2024 and subsequently charged in Worcester District Court with three counts of dissemination of obscene material to a minor, and one count each of open and gross lewdness and lascivious behavior, dissemination of Child sexual abuse material (CSAM), intimidation, enticing a child under 16 and two counts of aggravated rape of a child. The charge of sexual exploitation of a minor provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to 30 years in prison, up to a lifetime of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Interim Worcester Police Chief Paul B. Saucier made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Noto of the Worcester Branch Office 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 the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc . The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in the court of law.


title: Pasco County Sex Offender Sentenced To 10 Years For Possession Of Child Sex Abuse Material

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday has sentenced Jason Alan Wacker (28, Pasco County) to 10 years in federal prison for possession of child sexual abuse material. The court also ordered Wacker to forfeit two cellphones, which are traceable to proceeds of the offense. Wacker entered a guilty plea on August 12, 2024. According to court documents, in May 2023, Wacker, a registered sex offender, was on supervised release for transportation and possession of child sex abuse material when law enforcement received a cyber tip that he was again accessing child sex abuse material. Forensic examinations of Wacker’s cellphones revealed more than 100 images and videos of child sexual abuse and exploitation. This case was investigated by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office and the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Courtney Derry and Jennifer Peresie. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Hanson Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Dogfighting Charges

body_text: BOSTON – A Hanson man pleaded guilty today to possessing dogs at his Massachusetts home for participation in a dogfighting venture. John D. Murphy, 51, pleaded guilty to nine counts of possessing animals for use in an animal fighting venture, in violation of the federal Animal Welfare Act. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Feb. 27, 2025. Murphy was indicted by a federal grand jury in March 2024 . “Mr. Murphy’s actions represent the calculated cruelty and inhumanity that dogfighting embodies – a barbaric practice that exploits and harms animals for entertainment and profit. Today’s conviction brings an end to Mr. Murphy’s reign of brutality and sends a clear message: dogfighting is a federal crime, and those who engage in this inhumane conduct will face justice,” said United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “This case marks the first time federal criminal charges have been brought in the District of Massachusetts under the Animal Welfare Act, underscoring the seriousness of these crimes and our commitment to holding those who engage in this abhorrent conduct accountable. We urge anyone with knowledge of animal fighting or abuse to come forward and report it.” “Dogfighting is a sadistic crime which subjects animals to cruel mistreatment for entertainment,” said Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). “We commend the investigators and prosecutors who worked collaboratively to bring this case to justice.” In 2021, Murphy was identified discussing dogfighting on recorded calls with a New York-based dogfighting target. A subsequent search of his Facebook accounts revealed Murphy’s years-long involvement in dogfighting. Murphy communicated with other dogfighters via Facebook where they discussed the results of dogfights, injuries sustained by fighting dogs, as well as breeding dogs. Murphy also belonged to private dogfighting Facebook groups used to share fight results, buy and sell fighting dogs and exchange information on training and conditioning fighting dogs, among other things. Photos and videos found on Murphy’s Facebook account showed a pit bull-type dog with scarring and discolorations on its head and leg consistent with that of dogfighting as well as a photo of a pit bull-type dog restrained in a breeding stand. Videos from his account showed pit bull-type dogs physically tethered to different treadmill-like devices that dogfighters commonly use to physically condition dogs for dogfights. One of the videos depicted a live raccoon caged in front of the carpet mill, to serve as a stimulus for the pit bull-type dog to run faster and harder. During a search of Murphy’s Hanson residence in June 2023, numerous items associated with possessing dogs for participation in an animal fighting venture were found including: Flirt poles, used to entice a dog to chase a stimulus; Spring poles, used to build a dog’s jaw strength and increase aggression; Several treadmills, slat mills, and carpet mills, used to condition dogs to build stamina and muscle; A jenny mill, used to develop a dog’s endurance and musculature by enticing the animal to run on a circular track; Rabbit training scent for dogs; Break sticks, used to force a dog’s bite onto another dog’s body open, specifically at the termination of a fight or while training; A dog bite sleeve; Disposable skin staplers, used to attempt to close wounds resulting from dogfights; Several types of steroids and painkillers; Fertility medications and a breeding stand, used to restrain female dogs during breeding; Printouts of fighting dog pedigrees; and Dog fighting literature, DVDs, and/or CD-ROMs. In March 2024, the United States also filed a civil forfeiture complaint against 13 pit bull-type dogs, seized in June 2023 from Murphy’s residence and another residence in Townsend, Mass., that were possessed for participation in an animal fighting venture. Pursuant to the Animal Welfare Act, animals involved in violations of 7 U.S.C. § 2156 are subject to forfeiture to the United States. In September and October 2024, the Court ordered all dogs be forfeited to the United States. The dogs are currently in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) being cared for by a USMS-contractor. To report animal fighting crimes, please contact your local law enforcement or the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Office of Inspector General complaint hotline at: https://usdaoig.oversight.gov/hotline or 1-800-424-9121. The charges of possessing animals for use in an animal fighting venture each provide for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. U.S. Attorney Levy; ENRD AAG Kim; Charmeka Parker, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, Northeast Region; Geoffrey D. Noble, Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police; and Karen L. LoStracco, Director of the Animal Rescue League of Boston – Law Enforcement Division made the announcement. Valuable assistance was provided by Homeland Security Investigations; U.S. Customs and Border Protection; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service; Maine State Police; New Hampshire State Police; Massachusetts Office of the State Auditor; Rhode Island Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; Massachusetts Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals; and the Hanson, Boston and Acton Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danial E. Bennett and Kaitlin J. Brown of the Worcester Branch Office and Trial Attorney Matthew T. Morris of the Justice Department's Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD), Environmental Crimes Section, are prosecuting the case. Carol E. Head, Chief of the Asset Recovery Unit for the District of Massachusetts, and Trial Attorney Caitlyn F. Cook of ENRD’s Wildlife and Marine Resources Section are prosecuting the civil forfeiture case.


title: North Alabama Law Enforcement Agencies Awarded More Than $7.25 Million For Community-Policing Initiatives and Technology

component: USAO - Alabama, Northern

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – The Department of Justice’s Community Oriented Policing Services (COPS) Office and Bureau of Justice Assistance have recently awarded $7,256,829 to local communities and law enforcement agencies across north Alabama for law enforcement technology and community-policing initiatives. “Local law enforcement agencies and officers are the day-to-day superheroes in our communities who keep us safe,” said United States Attorney Prim F. Escalona. “I am grateful to the Department of Justice’s COPS Office and the Bureau of Justice Assistance for this much needed support in keeping our families and communities safe.” The recently announced awards were made through the various Department of Justice grant programs listed below: COPS Office Community Policing Development Program The National Association of School Resource Officers was awarded $200,000 to provide school resource officer training. The City of Jacksonville was awarded $125,000 to hire an additional officer. The City of Pell City was awarded $219,850 to hire two additional officers. COPS Office Hiring Program COPS Office Law Enforcement Mental Health and Wellness Act Implementation Program The City of Hartselle was awarded $25,000. The Winston County Board of Education was awarded $499,598. The Cullman County District Attorney’s Office (32 nd Circuit) was awarded $110,000 to improve its computer technology and to purchase a law enforcement vehicle. The City of Fort Payne was awarded $670,000 to improve its local communications and emergency-response systems. The Jackson County Commission was awarded $250,000 for additional patrol vehicles. Jacksonville State University was awarded $656,000 to improve campus security and communications. The Limestone County Commission was awarded $425,000 to improve security and surveillance within the county courthouse. The Madison County Commission was awarded $195,000 to improve security and surveillance within the county jail. The City of Moody was awarded $245,000 to improve local emergency-communications systems. The City of Oxford was awarded $185,000 to enhance crime-fighting resources that are networked to the East Alabama Metro Area Crime Center. The City of Pell City was awarded $612,000 to improve emergency-communications systems with other local law enforcement and emergency-response agencies. The Pickens County Emergency 911 Board was awarded $1,805,000 to improve local emergency systems and communications services. St. Clair County was awarded $1,200,000 to develop a mobile command center to best prevent and respond to public safety threats and incidents. COPS Office School Violence Prevention Program COPS Office Technology and Equipment Program Bureau of Justice Assistance Body Worn Camera Program The Blount County Commission was awarded $29,996. The City of Montevallo was awarded $4,385. The full list of FY 2024 COPS awards can be found here: https://cops.usdoj.gov/grants . Information about grant awards made through the Bureau of Justice Assistance can be found here: https://bja.ojp.gov/funding/awards/list .


title: Arizona Man Sentenced to 15 Months of Imprisonment for Making Online Threats Against Public Servants Including Federal Officials

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Yesterday, United States District Judge Dominic W. Lanza sentenced Michael Lee Tomasi, 38, of Rio Verde, to 15 months in prison and 36 months of supervised release. Tomasi also was ordered to forfeit an assault rifle, handgun, shotgun, gun magazines, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. Tomasi pleaded guilty to one count of Making Threats Against Public Officials on August 13, 2024. “After making vile threats to execute and sexually assault FBI agents and employees, state and local law enforcement officials, and other public servants, Michael Tomasi told the FBI to ‘come to my house and see what happens’ – what has happened is that he will spend 15 months in federal prison,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “I am grateful to the brave public servants of the FBI for bringing this defendant to justice and for the difficult and dangerous work they do every day to keep the American people safe.” “Threatening law enforcement officers and other public officials will not be tolerated, whether it involves our own FBI personnel, police officers patrolling their communities, or government officials carrying out their work,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “I take it very personally that anyone would threaten FBI personnel who work tirelessly to protect the American people from a variety of threats and often put themselves in harm’s way while carrying out their duties. We will continue to work with our partners to hold accountable those who threaten violence against law enforcement officers and other public servants.” “Civil discourse and civic dialogue are fundamental to a democratic society,” said United States Attorney Gary Restaino. “But the incitement of violence is not: We will continue our efforts to prosecute those who make true threats against public officials and law enforcement officers.” From May 2021 through November 2023, while living in Colorado and Arizona, Tomasi used a social media platform to express a desire to incite violence and threaten a variety of individuals and groups, including a city district attorney, a state court judge, a member of Congress and other federal officials and law enforcement officers. Tomasi pleaded guilty to posting a threat on August 26, 2023, to kill FBI agents in order to impede, intimidate, or interfere with FBI agents’ performance of their official duties. Specifically, Tomasi admitted that, on that day, he posted: “Shoot the FBI first and ask questions later. . . . Any FBI [] have a problem with that[,] come to my house and see what happens. Shoot before they even pull their guns out of their trunk and you shoot to kill.” The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Raymond K. Woo and Abbie Broughton Marsh, District of Arizona, Phoenix, are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance provided by Trial Attorney Dmitriy Slavin of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. CASE NUMBER: CR-23-01751-PHX-DWL RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-164_Tomasi # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Arizona Man Sentenced for Making Online Threats Against Public Servants Including Federal Officials

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: Michael Lee Tomasi, 38, of Rio Verde, Arizona, was sentenced yesterday to 15 months in prison and 36 months of supervised release for making online threats against public servants, including federal officials. Tomasi also was ordered to forfeit an assault rifle, handgun, shotgun, gun magazines, and thousands of rounds of ammunition. Tomasi pleaded guilty to one count of making threats against public officials on Aug. 13. “After making vile threats to execute and sexually assault FBI agents and employees, state and local law enforcement officials, and other public servants, Michael Tomasi told the FBI to ‘come to my house and see what happens’ — what has happened is that he will spend 15 months in federal prison,” said Attorney General Merrick B. Garland. “I am grateful to the brave public servants of the FBI for bringing this defendant to justice and for the difficult and dangerous work they do every day to keep the American people safe.” “Threatening law enforcement officers and other public officials will not be tolerated, whether it involves our own FBI personnel, police officers patrolling their communities, or government officials carrying out their work,” said FBI Director Christopher Wray. “I take it very personally that anyone would threaten FBI personnel who work tirelessly to protect the American people from a variety of threats and often put themselves in harm’s way while carrying out their duties. We will continue to work with our partners to hold accountable those who threaten violence against law enforcement officers and other public servants.” “Civil discourse and civic dialogue are fundamental to a democratic society,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino for the District of Arizona. “But the incitement of violence is not: we will continue our efforts to prosecute those who make true threats against public officials and law enforcement officers.” From May 2021 through November 2023, while living in Colorado and Arizona, Tomasi used a social media platform to express a desire to incite violence and threaten a variety of individuals and groups, including a city district attorney, a state court judge, a member of Congress and other federal officials and law enforcement officers. Tomasi pleaded guilty to posting a threat on Aug. 26, 2023, to kill FBI agents in order to impede, intimidate, or interfere with FBI agents’ performance of their official duties. Specifically, Tomasi admitted that, on that day, he posted: “Shoot the FBI first and ask questions later. . . . Any FBI [] have a problem with that[,] come to my house and see what happens. Shoot before they even pull their guns out of their trunk and you shoot to kill.” The FBI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Raymond K. Woo and Abbie Broughton Marsh for the District of Arizona prosecuted the case, with valuable assistance provided by Trial Attorney Dmitriy Slavin of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section.


title: Pueblo Man Convicted On Drug, Felon In Possession Charges

component: USAO - Colorado

body_text: DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Dominick Jesus Salazar, 51, of Pueblo, Colorado was convicted by a federal jury on one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams and more of methamphetamine, and one count of being a felon of possession of a firearm and ammunition. According to the facts established at trial, on May 23, 2023, Salazar was arrested outside of a Pueblo area hotel room he was staying in after being observed by Pueblo Police Officers interacting with multiple people in a manner consistent with hand-to-hand drug sales. When agents arrested Salazar, he had a loaded pistol in his pocket along with drug proceeds. Inside his hotel room, agents found 184 grams of 98% pure meth. “We will do our best to send convicted felons who continue to repeat their criminal behavior back to prison,” said Acting United States Attorney for the District of Colorado Matt Kirsch. “Our communities are safer with one more repeat offender off the streets.” United States District Court Judge Charlotte N. Sweeney presided over the trial. The FBI Denver Field Office handled the investigation. The Violent Crime and Immigration Enforcement Section of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado handled the prosecution. 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. Case Number: 23-CR-00310


title: Fresno Man Sentenced for Embezzling Over $1.5 Million from His Employer in Nearly Decade-Long Scheme

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — Gabriel Ruiz De Chavez, 47, of Fresno, was sentenced Monday by U.S. District Judge Troy L. Nunley to two years and nine months in prison for a multiyear embezzlement scheme and ordered to pay over $1.5 million in restitution, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. In July 2024, Ruiz De Chavez pleaded guilty to wire fraud. According to court documents, from 2004 to 2020, Ruiz De Chavez worked as an operations manager for a Fresno-based trucking company. Between 2012 and 2019, Ruiz De Chavez used his position to generate fake invoices, purportedly created by genuine vendors for goods and services. He presented these fake invoices and corresponding checks made out to the real vendors with his employer’s signature. He would then deposit the checks into his own personal bank account. Once in his personal bank account, Ruiz De Chavez used the funds to pay for personal expenses including credit card payments, cash withdrawals, mortgage payments, vacations, and car loans. He was able to continue the scheme without notice because of the trusted position he held at the company. Ruiz De Chavez created more than 600 fake invoices and checks, causing $1,561,000 to be transferred into his account from his employer. This case was the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cody S. Chapple prosecuted the case.


title: Founder of U.S. Freight Forwarding Company Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Illegally Export Goods from the United States to Prohibited Chinese Companies

body_text: Richard Shih, 77, the founder and former chief executive officer of a California-based international logistics and freight forwarding company with offices in Grapevine, Texas, pleaded guilty today to conspiring to violate export laws by shipping goods to Chinese companies on the U.S. Department of Commerce’s Entity List. According to court documents, as of September 2018, Shih’s U.S. company had an existing business relationship with Chinese freight forwarder Seajet Company Limited (Seajet). In September 2018, Seajet and its Chinese co-owner were both added to the Entity List for engaging in activities that were contrary to the national security and foreign policy interests of the United States, to include unlawfully procuring and diverting U.S.-origin items to North Korea. In addition, in June 2021, Hisiang Logistics Company Limited (Hisiang) was added to the Entity List as an alias for Seajet. Hisiang is the Chinese transliteration of Seajet. As a result of being added to the Entity List, a specific license was required to export goods from the United States to Seajet, its co-owner, and Hisiang. Nonetheless, between September 2018 and May 2022, Shih and others at his company continued to transact with and export items to Seajet and its affiliates. Specifically, between September 2018 and May 2022, Shih’s company conducted more than 1,000 shipments of items from the United States to Seajet and its alter-ego Hisiang. During that time period, Seajet’s co-owner and his affiliated businesses, including Hisiang, transmitted 34 international wire transfers to accounts held by Shih’s company. The company used the funds to pay various expenses on the transactions, such as air carriers and trucking companies, while retaining a portion of the funds as profit. Shih and his company knew that Seajet and its co-owner were on the Entity List and that Hisiang was established as an alias for Seajet. For example, Seajet’s co-owner notified Shih by email that Seajet had changed its name to Hisiang for purposes of its international business but that “[t]here is nothing else changed such as company address, structure and policy etc.” Shih then forwarded the email to ten of his employees, copying Seajet’s co-owner and several Seajet employees. In addition, federal officials repeatedly educated Shih’s company about the Entity List and related laws. In December 2018, after Seajet and its co-owner were added to the Entity List, a BIS official visited Shih’s company to discuss the prohibition against exporting items to Seajet, because it was on the Entity List. Yet, company records from the time revealed that it had used an account code assigned to Seajet for a shipment to Hisiang. In November 2020, another BIS official reached out to Shih’s company and received a list of foreign persons and companies with which Shih’s company would not do business. Yet, the company’s list did not include Seajet, its co-owner, or Hisiang. Shih pleaded guilty to conspiring to violate the Export Control Reform Act, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371, which carries a maximum sentence of up to five years in federal prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant Attorney General Matthew G. Olsen of the Justice Department’s National Security Division, Assistant Secretary for Export Enforcement Matthew S. Axelrod of Department of Commerce Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton for the Northern District of Texas, and Executive Assistant Director Robert Wells of the FBI’s National Security Branch announced the case. The FBI and BIS are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay Weimer for the Northern District of Texas and Trial Attorney David J. Ryan of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Control Section are prosecuting the case.


title: Tampa Man Indicted For Attempting To Coerce And Entice A Minor To Engage In Sexual Activity

body_text: Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Yitzchak Reuven Baum (36, Tampa) with attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity, attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, receipt of child sex abuse material, and accessing with intent to view child sex abuse material. If convicted on all counts, Baum faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. According to the indictment, between August and October 2023, Baum attempted to persuade an individual Baum believed to be a minor to engage in sexual activity. In October 2023, Baum attempted to transfer an explicit image to an individual Baum believed to be under the age of 16. On October 30, 2023, Baum knowingly received a visual depiction that involved the sexual abuse of a minor. On December 29, 2023, Baum accessed with the intent to view an image depicting the sexual abuse of a minor. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Sacramento Man Indicted for Multiple Armed Postal Robberies

body_text: SACRAMENTO, Calif. — A four-count indictment was unsealed today, charging William Carl Jackson, 36, of Sacramento, with two counts each of armed robbery of a postal carrier and possession of mail keys, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. According to court documents, Jackson robbed postal carriers on July 11 and 31, 2024. During in each robbery, he brandished a pistol at the victim and then ordered the victim to turn over his postal keys. After taking the victim’s keys, he then fled from the scene on a bicycle. This case is the product of an investigation by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot C. Wong is prosecuting the case. If convicted, Jackson faces a maximum statutory penalty of 25 years in prison for each robbery count and 10 years in prison for each count of possession of a mail key. Each count also carries a maximum statutory fine of $250,000. Any sentence, however, would 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. The charges are only allegations; the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.


title: Bradenton Felon Sentenced To Nineteen Years In Federal Prison

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Virginia Hernandez Covington has sentenced Andre Adams, Jr. (43, Bradenton) to 19 years in federal prison for possession of 500 grams or more of cocaine, 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and 40 grams or more of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possessing firearms and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Adams to forfeit four firearms and assorted ammunition. A federal jury found Adams guilty on July 17, 2024. According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, after a complaint from a concerned citizen, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office (MCSO) began investigating an unknown individual in Bradenton for selling fentanyl and using a finance app for payment. Investigators determined the identity of the individual as Andre Adams, Jr. Over the next several months, investigators observed frequent visitors to Adams’s residence. The visitors briefly met with Adams and appeared to make exchanges with him. Adams’s finance app records showed that tens of thousands of dollars had been paid to Adams over a short period of time. Many of the senders had known drug addiction issues and used coded drug language such as “Scooby snacks,” a street term for heroin or fentanyl. On August 4, 2022, detectives with MCSO executed a search warrant at Adams’s residence and located a loaded handgun, scales, drug cutting agents, a money counter, a kilo press, $22,000 in cash, 55 grams of methamphetamine, 400 grams of cocaine, and 80 grams of fentanyl. Later that day, investigators executed a search warrant at Adams’s storage unit and located two kilograms of cocaine, more than 350 grams of methamphetamine, drug cutting agents, and a digital scale. They also seized three additional firearms, including an AK-47 rifle, and several dozen rounds of ammunition. Prior to August 2022, Adams had been convicted of trafficking in cocaine and served 15 years in Florida state prison. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shauna S. Hale. 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: Georgia Tax Preparer Guilty of Filing $3 Million in Fraudulent Returns

body_text: ATHENS, Ga. – A tax preparer who admitted to filing more than $3 million in fraudulent tax returns on behalf of her clients is facing up to 30 years in prison for her crime. Jessica Crawford, 33, of Athens, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud and one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of false income tax returns before U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self, III on Nov. 22. Crawford faces a maximum of 30 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release and a $1,000,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for March 19, 2025, in Athens. There is no parole in the federal system. “Jessica Crawford was an unscrupulous return preparer who allowed greed to cloud her judgement and neglect her responsibilities to help clients prepare and file a true and correct tax return,” said Demetrius Hardeman, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Crawford is not representative of most tax preparers who provide honest services to their clients. Taxpayers are urged to choose their tax preparer carefully, especially before tax season begins in January to have time to shop around. It is important to know that the responsibility for the information contained on the tax return is that of the taxpayer.” "Jessica Crawford lied and took advantage of funds designed to help those who were truly in need during the pandemic," said FBI Atlanta's Acting Special Agent in Charge Sean Burke. "The FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to identify and hold accountable anyone who defrauds taxpayers." According to court documents and statements made in court, FBI agents investigating a multi-state unemployment benefit scheme conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic discovered text messages between individuals involved in the scheme and Crawford, a tax preparer with Crawford Tax Services in Athens. Crawford filed for Pandemic Unemployment Assistance (PUA) benefits on behalf of those individuals, who had created fake businesses or submitted false information to fraudulently obtain benefits. In return, Crawford received a percentage of the ill-gotten gains. As part of the continuing investigation, Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations (IRS-CI) agents executed an undercover operation at Crawford’s business in April 2022. The undercover agent (UA) met Crawford to have taxes prepared, and Crawford asked if the UA did anything on the side. At first, the UA responded no, but Crawford said that expenses could be deducted if he did, and the UA said he mowed an aunt’s lawn sometimes, to which Crawford said that was good enough. The UA did not provide any income or expense amounts, but Crawford created a Schedule C business for landscaping on the UA's federal income tax return based solely on that interaction. Crawford prepared a Form 1040 and filed electronically, including a fictitious Schedule C loss of $19,373, and claimed an Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC), a Child Tax Credit (CTC), and Qualified Business Income (QBI) deduction, which were affected by the fraudulent Schedule C loss. As a result, the UA’s return claimed a fraudulent federal income tax refund of $12,359. The IRS completed a statistical review of 1,261 total tax returns filed by Crawford in tax years 2020 and 2021. Of those, the IRS determined that Crawford fraudulently filed tax returns on behalf of clients which resulted in losses to the IRS exceeding $3 million from falsely claimed Form 7202 credits for sick leave and family leave, tax credits and dependent care credits. The case was investigated by the FBI and the IRS-CI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McCullers and Criminal Chief Leah E. McEwen are prosecuting the case for the Government.


title: Six Accused of Bank Fraud Involving ATM Skimming Devices

body_text: ST. LOUIS – Six people have been accused in an indictment of installing skimming devices on St. Louis area ATMs to harvest bank account information from customers. Laurentiu Miguel Ivan, 33, Venera Isabelle Dumitru, 28, Mihai Florin Marinescu, 37, Ianus Nita, 52, and Mihai Vlaicu, 47, were indicted August 7 on one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, one count of access device fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft. Nelu Nae, 36, is facing one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. Marinescu, Vlaicu and Nae appeared in court Monday and pleaded not guilty. Ivan and Dumitru pleaded not guilty on August 13. Nita has not yet been arrested. The indictment accuses all six of a conspiracy to install skimming devices on bank ATMs to steal customer account data and PINs that they then used, or attempted to use, to defraud financial institutions. Vlaicu and Marinescu harvested information from numerous victims in January of 2024 by placing skimmers on a bank in Frontenac and a bank in Clayton, the indictment says. In April, Dumitru, Vlaicu and Ivan used cloned cards to try and withdraw cash in various St. Louis-area locations, the indictment says. On May 2, Marinescu unsuccessfully tried to install a skimming device on an ATM in south St. Louis County and Nae retrieved it the next day, the indictment says. On May 9, Marinescu installed a skimming device on an ATM in Wildwood, the indictment says. On May 11, Nita withdrew and attempted to withdraw cash from a St. Louis County ATM using the account information of at least two victims. On May 28, Marinescu and Nae installed a skimming device on an ATM in St. Louis, which was located and removed by law enforcement before Nita and Vlaicu could retrieve it, the indictment says. “It’s not uncommon for some skimmers to be hidden inside an ATM or gas pump, so there’s no way for a victim to know. To help protect yourself, review your bank or credit card statements regularly for unauthorized transactions,” said Special Agent in Charge Ashley T. Johnson of the FBI St. Louis Division. “You can also avoid a hidden skimmer by not inserting your card. Instead, go inside to pay or withdraw money with the merchant or teller.” Ivan, Dumitru, Marinescu are not legally in the United States and Nita has overstayed his visa, motions seeking to have them held in jail until trial say. The FBI, the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the Webster Groves Police Department, the Clayton Police Department and the Frontenac Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the St. Louis County Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cort VanOstran is prosecuting the case.


title: Violent Felon Sentenced to Nine and a Half Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Firearm While on Community Corrections

component: USAO - Indiana, Southern

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS— Brandon Williams, 39, of Indianapolis, has been sentenced to 115 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Williams must also pay a $1,000 fine. According to court documents, on December 2, 2022, Brandon Williams began serving a home detention sentence through Marion County, Indiana, Community Corrections, following felony convictions for Dealing in Methamphetamine and Battery Against a Public Safety Official. On October 18, 2023, officers from Community Corrections and the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department searched Williams’ home to ensure his compliance with home detention rules. In one of the drawers of William’s kitchen, officers located thirty-two grams of fentanyl, eighteen methamphetamine pills, three grams of crystal methamphetamine, and multiple THC vape cartridges and edibles. Officers also found drug paraphernalia, including scales and multiple types of baggies for packaging narcotics for sale. In another kitchen drawer, officers located $8,280 in cash. In Williams’ bedroom, officers found a plastic tote with a .40 caliber handgun with an obliterated serial number. Prior to possessing the gun, Williams was convicted of multiple felonies including Methamphetamine and Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Serious Violent Felon. As a convicted felon Williams is permanently prohibited from ever again legally possessing a firearm under federal law. “Illegally armed, repeat violent criminals are responsible for a disproportionate share of the gun violence suffered in Indianapolis and all of our communities These offenses will not be tolerated,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Every offender returning to our community has a choice. There are many services and supporters dedicated to keeping you safe, alive, and successful, and turning your life around. If instead, you choose to illegally carry a firearm, you risk serving a serious sentence in federal prison with no possibility of parole.” IMPD and the United States Postal Inspection Service investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Jayson W. McGrath, who prosecuted this case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. ###


title: U.S. Department Of Veterans Affairs’ Nurse Charged With Unlawfully Accessing Patient Health Information

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: Jessica Nicole Pitcher Charged with Misdemeanor Offense GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Jessica Nicole Pitcher, 41, of Shelbyville, Michigan, was charged by misdemeanor information with unlawfully accessing health information pertaining to a patient of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs without authorization, in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 1320d-6(a)(2). “Patients have an absolute expectation of privacy concerning the communications and information shared with medical professionals and contained within their medical records,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “Federal law has long protected such privacy to ensure that patients, without fear of any disclosure, can share with their medical providers all information critical to receiving proper medical care. My office will hold accountable those who access or disclose confidential patient health information without authorization and without justification under federal law.” According to court documents, Pitcher is a nurse with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. The misdemeanor information charges that on or about November 27, 2023, without authority, she unlawfully accessed and obtained protected health information of a patient at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Battle Creek, Michigan. If convicted, Pitcher faces a maximum penalty of 1 year in prison and a maximum fine of $100,000.00. “Protecting patient privacy is paramount to the VA Office of Inspector General,” said Special Agent in Charge Gregory Billingsley with the Department of Veterans Affairs OIG’s Central Field Office . “Unlawfully accessing patient records erodes trust in VA’s programs and services. The VA OIG will diligently investigate any employee who violates this trust.” The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General is investigating this case with the assistance of the Battle Creek VA Police. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald M. Stella. The charges in a misdemeanor information are merely accusations, and a defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty. # # #


title: Two Men Accused of Roles in Fatal Kidnapping

body_text: ST. LOUIS – Two men have been accused in charging documents of involvement in the fatal kidnapping of a woman in Clayton, Missouri last week. Anjuan Q. Mosby, 43, of St. Louis, was charged by complaint November 23 with kidnapping resulting in death. Emmanuel Suarez, 36, of St. Louis, was arrested Monday and charged by complaint Tuesday with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Mosby is scheduled to appear in U.S. District Court in St. Louis Tuesday. Affidavits filed in support of the complaints accuse Mosby of kidnapping a woman on November 20 from Clayton, Missouri, and then forcing her to withdraw cash from a bank before unsuccessfully attempting another withdrawal. Mosby fatally shot the victim in the 4700 block of Greer Avenue in St. Louis later that morning, the affidavit says. The affidavit accuses Suarez of driving a stolen Ram pickup truck during the kidnapping, and being in possession of a .45-caliber Glock handgun just before he was arrested. The affidavit says Suarez is a felon and is thus barred from possessing firearms. Charges set forth in a criminal complaint are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. The kidnapping resulting in death charge is punishable by a term of life in prison or the death penalty, a $250,000 fine, or both prison and a fine. The felon in possession charge is punishable by up to 15 years in prison and the same fine. The St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department, the FBI, the Clayton Police Department and the St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley Walker is prosecuting the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce 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.