title: Felon from Turtle Creek Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearm

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Turtle Creek, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to a charge of being a felon in possession of a firearm, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. Deon Dutrieuille, 24, pleaded guilty to one count before Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer. In connection with the guilty plea, the Court was advised that, on November 25, 2023, the Monroeville Police Department went to the Monroeville Mall in connection with a retail theft investigation, and found Dutrieuille—who has multiple prior felony convictions—in the driver’s seat of a vehicle wearing a stolen jacket. Dutrieuille, who had an outstanding warrant, ran from police, was apprehended, and was then taken into custody. A later search of Dutrieuille’s vehicle revealed a stolen Glock handgun, with Dutrieuille’s fingerprints on the firearm. Federal law prohibits the possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. Judge Fischer scheduled sentencing for April 15, 2025. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to 15 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Monroeville Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Allegheny County Medical Examiner’s Office, conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Dutrieuille.


title: Charleston Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun Crime

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Thomas McNeil Hedrick II, 36, of Charleston, was sentenced today to five years and 11 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 26, 2023, Hedrick entered a Shrewsbury residence looking for his girlfriend while armed with a Ruger model AR-556 semi-automatic rifle loaded with a 60-round drum magazine and equipped with a bipod. While in the residence, Hedrick repeatedly pointed the rifle at his girlfriend and others while demanding that his girlfriend leave with him. Hedrick admitted that he knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms, and that he sought to conceal the loaded semi-automatic rifle under his jacket when he entered and left the residence. Hedrick further admitted that surveillance video at the residence captured his actions. Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Hedrick knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition because of his prior felony conviction for wanton endangerment in Kanawha County Circuit Court on March 1, 2022. Hedrick has a criminal history that also includes prior convictions for domestic assault, violation of a protective order, possession of a controlled substance, and being a person prohibited from possessing firearms. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Kanawha County Sheriff’s Office. Chief United States District Judge Thomas E. Johnston imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorneys JC MacCallum and Alexander A. Redmon prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the result. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-56. ###


title: Postal Employee and Son Sentenced for Stealing Postal Money Orders Worth More Than $5 Million

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: SAN DIEGO – Former U.S. Postal Service employee Dewayne Morris Sr. and his son and namesake were sentenced today to seven years and 12.5 years in prison, respectively, for stealing $5.1 million in postal money order forms and distributing them to co-conspirators. After a trial in January 2024, a federal jury convicted both defendants of conspiracy and bank fraud charges, finding that Morris Sr. stole the postal money order forms from a post office he supervised, and that Dewayne Morris Jr. distributed those money orders to co-defendants. Eight other defendants were previously sentenced in the Southern District of California for converting the stolen money orders to cash by depositing them at banks throughout the United States. Several co-conspirators testified at trial that Morris Jr. repeatedly provided them with money orders and counterfeit driver’s licenses, which they used to open bank accounts to deposit the money orders and quickly withdraw the cash. They also testified that Morris Jr. joined them for out-of-state trips to convert the money orders to cash—testimony corroborated by airline records—and that he collected most of the cash proceeds. Trial evidence included bank records showing Morris Jr. deposited more than $2 million in cash into his bank accounts over the course of the conspiracy. He also paid for his and Morris Sr.’s luxury cars, including a new Mercedes-Benz AMG GT, and extravagant vacations. For example, Morris Jr. paid for their three trips—in a span of just 10 weeks—to Costa Rica, Grand Cayman, and Los Cabos, Mexico, including stays at a Four Seasons Resort and a Ritz-Carlton. The jury also convicted Morris Jr. of witness tampering while he was on pretrial release. The trial evidence included threatening text messages Morris Jr. sent to the witness and videos that Morris Jr. recorded attempting to get the witness to deny that Morris Jr. ever provided him postal money orders. “These defendants ran a scheme that tricked banks into cashing millions in stolen postal orders to fund their extravagant greed,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “Today’s sentence underscores our commitment to safeguarding the integrity of the U.S. Postal Service while also holding accountable those who defraud financial institutions.” “This father and son engaged in financial fraud for their personal gain, taking advantage of financial institutions and profiting significantly in the process,” said Matt Shields, United States Postal Inspection Service, Acting Inspector in Charge of the Los Angeles Division. “Today’s sentencing demonstrates that greed and illegal activity will not be tolerated.” U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, Western Pacific Area Field Office, Acting Executive Special Agent-in-Charge Christopher Paige said “Postal money order fraud schemes negatively impact the American economy and Postal Service operations. Today’s sentencing highlights the commitment of the U.S. Postal Service-Office of Inspector General and our law enforcement partner agencies in protecting the Postal Service from financial loss.” This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric Olah. DEFENDANTS Case Number 22-CR-1037-WQH Dewayne Morris Sr. Age: 65 Inglewood, CA Dewayne Morris Jr. Age: 41 Inglewood, CA SUMMARY OF CHARGES Conspiracy—Title 18, U.S.C., Section 371 Maximum penalty: Five years in prison and $250,000 fine or twice the gross pecuniary gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greater Bank Fraud—Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1344(2) Maximum penalty: Thirty years in prison and $1 million fine Witness Tampering—Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1512(b)(1) Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison INVESTIGATING AGENCIES United States Postal Inspection Service United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General


title: Beckley Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Gun Crime

body_text: BECKLEY, W.Va. – Jalen O. Thomas, 27, of Beckley, was sentenced today to five years and 10 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents and statements made in court, on November 27, 2023, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a Beckley residence where Thomas was staying. During the search, officers seized a Smith & Wesson model SD9VE 9mm semiautomatic handgun, a loaded Glock model 17 Gen 5 9mm semi-automatic handgun with an extended magazine capable of holding 40 rounds, and a Taurus .38-caliber revolver. Thomas admitted to possessing the seized firearms. Federal law prohibits a person with a prior felony conviction from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Thomas knew he was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of his prior conviction for felony fleeing in Cabell County Circuit Court on May 11, 2018. The Court concluded that Thomas possessed firearms to facilitate drug trafficking. The Glock handgun seized on November 27, 2023, was found on a couch next to a package containing methamphetamine that was delivered to the Beckley residence as part of a controlled delivery shortly before officers executed the search warrant. Investigators intercepted the package before it was delivered, and found it contained over 400 grams of methamphetamine. Investigators removed most of the methamphetamine and replaced it with a sham substance before delivering the package to the residence. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Beckley/Raleigh County Drug and Violent Crime Unit, which consists of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Raleigh County Sheriff’s Department, and the Beckley Police Department. Chief United States District Judge Frank W. Volk imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Isabell prosecuted the case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:23-cr-197. ###


title: Idaho Falls Man and Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine

component: U.S. Attorneys (USAO)

body_text: POCATELLO – Ana Costilla, 38, and Jorge Hernandez Venegas, 24, both of Idaho Falls, were sentenced to federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. Chief United States District Judge David C. Nye sentenced Costilla to twelve and a half years and Venegas to nine years in federal prison for their roles in the conspiracy. According to court records, law enforcement learned that Costilla was arranging to have a co-conspirator drive ten pounds of methamphetamine from California to Costilla’s residence in Idaho. Law enforcement stopped Venegas as he left Costilla’s residence in Idaho Falls. Officers with the Idaho Falls Police Department searched the vehicle Venegas was driving and found one pound of methamphetamine. Officers later discovered an additional nine pounds of methamphetamine during a search of Costilla’s home. A federal grand jury indicted Costilla, Venegas, and Jesus Beltran-Zazusta, 26, a Mexican national living in Victor, Idaho, on January 23, 2024. On December 2, 2024, Judge Nye sentenced Venegas to 108 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. On January 6, 2025, Judge Nye sentenced Costilla to 150 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. Beltran-Zazusta pleaded guilty and is scheduled for sentencing on March 3, 2025. U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Idaho Falls Police Department and the Teton County Sheriff’s Office, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe H. McLane prosecuted the case. ###


title: Schenectady Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Methamphetamine

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: ALBANY, NEW YORK – Patrick Tucker, age 28, of Schenectady, New York, pled guilty today to distributing methamphetamine. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement. Tucker admitted to distributing a total of approximately 49 grams of methamphetamine through three transactions occurring between January and March 2023. Tucker faces at least 5 and up to 40 years in prison, a fine of up to $5 million, and a term of supervised release of at least 4 years and up to life. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other factors. The DEA investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin C. Segovia is prosecuting the case.


title: Boise Woman Pleads Guilty to Selling a Man Fentanyl Pills That Caused His Death

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: BOISE – Jerilyn Martel Hupp, 33, of Boise, pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl in a case involving a fatality, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. Hupp sold ten fentanyl pills to a man she met online, who subsequently died after ingesting half of a pill containing illicit fentanyl. According to court records, on August 18, 2023, the victim met Hupp at a hotel and purchased ten fentanyl pills from her. He then went back to his home, ingested half of a fentanyl pill, and died almost immediately. Coroner and pathologist reports showed a blood concentration level of 9.4 ng/ml of fentanyl and concluded the cause of death was fentanyl overdose. In fatalities from fentanyl, blood concentrations are variable and have been reported as low as 3 ng/ml. Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill will sentence Hupp on April 2, 2025. The charge in this case is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, and a minimum of 3 years and up to lifetime of supervised release. U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the investigations by the Nampa Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Boise Police Department, and the Meridian Police Department, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S Attorney David Morse is prosecuting this case. ###


title: Oregon man sentenced to more than seven years in prison for trafficking meth in Helena area

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

body_text: GREAT FALLS — A federal judge today sentenced an Oregon man to seven years and four months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, after he admitted to trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine in the Helena community, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. The defendant, Olin Carl Herendeen, 48, of Salem, Oregon, pleaded guilty in August 2024 to possession with intent to distribute meth. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. The government alleged in court documents that in June 2022, the Missouri River Drug Task Force began investigating a woman for running a large-scale drug trafficking ring that was bringing large amounts of meth and fentanyl into the Helena area from Washington. Herendeen was a member of the ring and assisted in bringing drugs from Washington to Montana. In February 20023, Herendeen, who was on state probation, went to the state probation and parole office in Helena to check in with his probation officer. Live ammunition was found on his person during a search. Herendeen admitted that there were multiple firearms in the vehicle he was driving. In a search of the vehicle, law enforcement found three firearms, AR-15 parts and approximately one ounce of meth. In an interview, Herendeen admitted to law enforcement to trafficking 50 pounds to 70 pounds of meth and 40,000 pills with the woman leading the ring in the year preceding his arrest. Seventy pounds of meth is the equivalent of approximately 253,680 doses. He also admitted to carrying a firearm for protection during some of the resupply trips to Washington. The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Missouri River Drug Task Force and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN . XXX


title: Reading Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Diego Castillo-Pedraza, 35, of Reading, Pennsylvania, was sentenced by United States District Judge Joseph F. Leeson Jr. to 240 months in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for his role in trafficking methamphetamine between July 2019 and March 2021. In July 2019, FBI agents intercepted a package containing approximately six pounds of pure methamphetamine shipped through the U.S. mail from California to a residence in Reading, Pennsylvania. At the time of the shipment, agents were conducting a wiretap investigation and later determined that the package was shipped at the direction of Castillo-Pedraza. In March 2021, Berks County Detectives executed a search warrant at the same residence in Reading and recovered approximately two pounds of methamphetamine from a safe inside of a bedroom. Fingerprint analysis revealed that Castillo-Pedraza’s fingerprint was on the exterior packaging of the methamphetamine. In April 2023, Castillo-Pedraza was charged by indictment with one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, and aiding and abetting. On September 19, 2024, he was convicted by a jury after a three-day trial. The evidence at trial established that Castillo-Pedraza orchestrated a scheme to receive and store large quantities of methamphetamine at the residence in Reading and directed at least two other individuals to assist with his trafficking operation. “For several years, Castillo-Pedraza profited by selling methamphetamine, a highly addictive and dangerous drug that’s plagued communities nationwide, including Reading,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Putting him out of business can’t make up for the damage he and his drugs have done, but it does make the city safer. Working together, my office, the FBI, and our Berks County partners will continue to target these traffickers for prosecution, to get them and the poison they’re pushing off our streets.” “We have seen the devastating impact methamphetamine has across our country, and there is no place for it in our cities,” said Wayne A. Jacobs, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Philadelphia. “This sentence is a product of a yearslong investigation and the tireless dedication of the FBI and our law enforcement partners in pursuit of those who bring these dangerous drugs into our communities.” The case was investigated by the FBI and Berks County Detectives as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin Ashenfelter.


title: Pine Ridge Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Assaulting an Infant on the Pine Ridge Reservation

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: RAPID CITY - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced today that U.S. District Judge Camela C. Theeler has sentenced a Pine Ridge, South Dakota, man convicted of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury. The sentencing took place on January 8, 2025. Sinte White Butterfly, 25, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. White Butterfly was indicted for Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury by a federal grand jury in September 2024. He pleaded guilty on October 29, 2024. The conviction stemmed from White Butterfly assaulting his infant daughter when she was between one and two months old, in August of 2024, fracturing numerous bones throughout her body and causing brain damage. In pronouncing the sentence, Judge Theeler stated the victim should have been able to count on White Butterfly as someone to protect her from harm, but instead he broke both of her legs, both of her arms, fractured nearly all of her ribs, and caused a skull fracture and a brain bleed, because he was intoxicated and lost his temper. Judge Theeler noted also that the facts of the case, coupled with White Butterfly’s history of violence, called for a strong need to protect the community. This matter was prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office because the Major Crimes Act, a federal statute, mandates that certain violent crimes alleged to have occurred in Indian Country be prosecuted in Federal court as opposed to State court. This case was investigated by Oglala Sioux Tribe Department of Public Safety Criminal Investigations Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Anna Lindrooth prosecuted the case. White Butterfly was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.


title: Chesapeake hospital indicted for healthcare fraud involving unnecessary surgical procedures

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging Chesapeake Regional Medical Center (CRMC) with healthcare fraud and conspiracy to defraud the United States and interference with government functions. As alleged in the indictment, CRMC, formerly known as Chesapeake Regional Hospital, granted privileges to Javaid Perwaiz from 1984 until his arrest in 2019, despite knowing that Perwaiz’ privileges had been terminated at another hospital for performing unnecessary surgeries and that he was convicted of two federal felonies in 1996. From 2010 to 2019, CRMC allegedly received approximately $18.5 million in reimbursements from health care benefit programs for surgical and obstetric procedures Perwaiz performed at the facility. “After Dr. Perwaiz was convicted of performing irreversible hysterectomies and other medically unnecessary surgeries on women, we continued to investigate the role that CRMC played,” said Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “As alleged in the indictment, Dr. Perwaiz did not act alone in this conspiracy to needlessly sterilize and otherwise harm women. The Grand Jury found today that CRMC was complicit in this horrifying scheme to place profits over patient care.” Beginning at least as early as January 2010 and continuing until November 2019, CRMC, Perwaiz, and others allegedly conspired to defraud the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Medicare, Medicaid, the Virginia Department of Medical Assistance Services, and TRICARE. CRMC and Perwaiz allegedly agreed to Perwaiz continually performing surgeries and other procedures at CRMC that were in violation of the rules and regulations of the healthcare benefit programs. CRMC also allegedly defrauded Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, Anthem, Optima, Humana, Cigna, Aetna, United, and others to obtain reimbursements for obstetric deliveries that were elective inductions for no medical reason before 39 weeks of gestation, contrary to medical necessity and the standard of care. CRMC allegedly submitted such reimbursements itself, and aided and abetted Perwaiz to do the same. “These latest charges are the next step toward justice for the women that were significantly impacted by Perwaiz’ predatory actions, as well as the negligence of Chesapeake Regional Medical Center,” said Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office. “The hospital’s prioritization of profits jeopardized the safety of many of their patients, many whom had full trust in them to provide reliable medical care. The FBI and our partners will continue to hold all parties responsible who abuse positions of power in such a manner, and that’s what today’s charges reflect.” As alleged in the indictment, Perwaiz exclusively performed his obstetric deliveries at CRMC and routinely scheduled them as elective inductions on Saturdays, a day when he was already scheduled to be at CRMC to perform surgeries. To schedule such deliveries, Perwaiz allegedly submitted to CRMC obstetric flowsheets that often had two different delivery dates clearly noted. One due date was accurate and within the standard of care, while the other was fabricated later by Perwaiz to appear that the patient was actually at or after 39 weeks of gestation at the time of induction or cesarean section, when she was not. A review of such forms for Medicaid patients in 2019 allegedly revealed that approximately 64% of forms were altered, resulting in about 39% of his patients of CRMC being induced before 39 weeks of gestation for no medical reason. CRMC employees and practitioners allegedly observed or were made aware of such discrepancies, but nonetheless allowed Perwaiz to continue these practices and continued billing for them. “As alleged in today’s indictment, CRMC knowingly disregarded patient care and allowed Dr. Perwaiz’s unnecessary surgeries, in order to increase its own revenue,” said Maureen Dixon, Special Agent in Charge for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG and our law enforcement partners are committed to investigating allegations of patient harm and theft from federal health insurance programs.” The indictment alleges CRMC knew that Perwaiz routinely and knowingly misclassified inpatient only surgeries as outpatient procedures but allowed him to continue performing these surgeries. CRMC also allegedly knew that certain health care benefit programs would not reimburse a hospital for an inpatient procedure performed on an outpatient basis, that the majority of private health care benefit programs reimbursed such procedures at a significantly lower rate, and that inpatient surgeries required an increased level of scrutiny. “Ensuring the full measure of justice is brought to all those complicit in the heinous acts committed by Dr. Perwaiz is of the highest priority,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher W. Dillard of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service, the law enforcement arm of the DoD’s Office of Inspector General. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to work with our partner agencies to pursue individuals and corporations for fraudulent actions, particularly those that involve patient harm.” CRMC allegedly routinely allowed Perwaiz to deviate from scheduling policies for non-emergent surgical cases. Perwaiz often scheduled his Saturday surgeries on late Friday afternoons. Perwaiz repeatedly performed sterilizations on Medicaid patients at CRMC without valid consent forms, and CRMC allegedly knowingly allowed him to continue to do so. The indictment alleges that Perwaiz was a solo practitioner who applied to CRMC for privileges in September 1983. While his application was pending, in December 1983, CRMC’s President, who remained the President/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) until 2005, was notified by Maryview Hospital in Portsmouth that Perwaiz’s privileges at Maryview had been terminated earlier that year for performing unnecessary surgeries. After review of Perwaiz’s application, it is alleged that CRMC’s Department of Surgery initially declared him unacceptable for appointment, but nonetheless granted him privileges in April 1984. The indictment further alleges that Perwaiz continued to conduct office visits, in-office diagnostic procedures, inpatient and outpatient surgical procedures, and obstetric deliveries at CRMC until his arrest on Nov. 8, 2019. Perwaiz also allegedly performed all his obstetric deliveries and inpatient surgeries, including hysterectomies, and other surgeries and procedures, at CRMC. The vast majority of these procedures allegedly took place on Saturdays when he had a reserved surgical block time at CRMC. In 1995, Perwaiz was indicted on six counts of felony tax fraud in federal court. He pled guilty to two of the counts, and admitted in public filings to extensive fraudulent conduct, including, among other things, falsely claiming a Ferrari luxury sports car as an ultrasound machine so that he could write it off as a business expense. In November 2020, Perwaiz was convicted of 52 counts of health care fraud and false statements in health care matters and was sentenced to 59 years in prison . Approximately 38 counts of the convictions were for procedures performed at CRMC, including unnecessary hysterectomies and other invasive and irreversible surgeries, elective inductions prior to 39 weeks of gestation without medical justification, and sterilizations of Medicaid patients without consent forms signed 30 days in advance. The indictment alleges that CRMC periodically reviewed the credentials of practicing physicians, including Perwaiz, every two years. Perwaiz’s re-credentialing packet allegedly contained information regarding his felony conviction, his prior hospital suspension, and notes regarding medical malpractice lawsuits resulting from procedures he performed at CRMC. It is alleged that CRMC continually re-credentialed Perwaiz approximately every two years between 1984 and 2019. Perwaiz was last re-credentialed in June 2019, just five months before his arrest. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rebecca Gantt and Elizabeth M. Yusi are prosecuting the case. Anyone who believes they may be a victim in this case or who has information regarding this matter is urged to contact the HHS-OIG tipline at 1-800-HHS-TIPS /1-800-447-8477 or online at tips.oig.hhs.gov . 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. 2:25-cr-1. An indictment is merely an accusation. Defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty.


title: Philadelphia Man Sentenced to Almost Four Years in Prison for Firearm Offenses

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Kyle Teat, 34, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge John M. Younge to 46 months in prison and three years of supervised release for firearms offenses. In July of last year, Teat pleaded guilty to dealing in firearms without a license and possession of a firearm by a felon, charges arising from the defendant unlawfully possessing and selling to an undercover federal agent a semiautomatic rifle capable of accepting a large-capacity magazine, in October 2019. “Kyle Teat knew that he wasn’t supposed to possess a firearm, given his criminal record, and he certainly knew he wasn’t permitted to sell one,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Nonetheless, he did both. Getting guns away from people who shouldn’t have them is critical to battling violent crime in Philadelphia. My office and our partners will use every tool at our disposal to do so, as we work to make the city safer.” “Keeping guns out of the hands of criminals is a key means to preventing violent crime,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF's Philadelphia Field Division. “Because of his criminal convictions Kyle Teat was prohibited from owning a gun. He further trafficked firearms, putting a semiautomatic rifle on the streets for criminals to threaten and injure or kill their victims. ATF is committed to working with our partners to keep firearms out of the hands of criminals who endanger our neighborhoods.” The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas M. Zaleski.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Washington Highlights Key 2024 Prosecutions of COVID-19 Financial Fraud

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington - U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref highlighted several prosecutions involving pandemic relief fraud during 2024 that were brought by the District’s COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force. U.S. Attorney Waldref has prioritized fighting fraud and public corruption, and her White Collar Section’s work combatting financial fraud and recovering damages continued to set the standard for medium-sized U.S. Attorney Offices. A hallmark of this work is the Eastern Washington COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force, which was launched in February 2022 by U.S. Attorney Waldref and White Collar Chief Dan Fruchter, along with members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office (USAO) and federal law enforcement agencies. The Strike Force leverages partnerships between over a dozen agencies to aggressively investigate and prosecute fraud against pandemic relief programs in Eastern Washington. The Strike Force has prosecuted cases involving fraud in the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) program, Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) program, and other pandemic relief programs, holding fraudsters accountable and recovering millions of dollars for taxpayers. “Many struggling, deserving small businesses requested money from COVID-19 relief programs. Fraudsters saw these programs as an opportunity to enrich themselves, and when funds ran out, eligible businesses were denied critical funding to keep their doors open,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “In 2024, the Strike Force continued to hold fraudsters accountable, recovering millions of dollars in settlements, seizures, and restitution judgments. By combatting pandemic-related fraud, we protect local and small businesses that play by the rules, provide critical services for our community, and support our economy.” Since the launch of the Strike Force in 2022: 37 defendants charged by indictment, information, or complaint 22 defendants have been convicted of felony fraud in connection with receipt of CARES Act funding 6 False Claims Act civil settlements Millions of dollars in forfeited assets, including cash, real property, cryptocurrency, and vehicles More than $20 Million in restitution ordered “The Eastern Washington COVID Fraud Strike Force represents the highest ideals of law enforcement and government – imagination, partnership, dedication, and service to the community. The Strike Force also involves many of the most skilled and hardworking law enforcement and other professionals, not just in Eastern Washington, but anywhere in the country,” said Assistant United States Attorney Dan Fruchter. “I’m proud and humbled to have had the opportunity to work with such a dedicated team of committed public servants on an effort that has brought accountability to an area badly in need of it, and look forward to continuing to work together to serve and protect the community.” “The SBA-OIG remains steadfast in its commitment to rooting out fraud and holding wrongdoers accountable,” said Weston King, Special Agent in Charge of the SBA Office of Inspector General’s Western Region. “The defendants exploited programs designed to help small businesses survive unprecedented challenges, undermining the integrity of critical relief efforts. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring justice to those who seek to profit illegally at the expense of taxpayers.” U.S. Attorney Waldref highlighted the following COVID-19 fraud cases prosecuted by her office in the past year: Tyler Keith Andrews took part in a scheme to obtain more than $16 million dollars in COVID-19 relief funds. Andrews assisted co-conspirators in obtaining at least $13,449,179 in COVID-19 relief funding. Andrews obtained another $4,485,541 by submitting false and fraudulent loan applications for his own companies. In December 2024, he was sentenced to more than 16 years in federal prison, 3 years of supervised release, restitution of $16,330,814.30 to the Small Business Administration, and forfeiture of $4,300,474.75. In November 2024, Taylor Jashaun Kendall and Michael Tyriq Allen , were charged with a dozen counts of fraud as part of a scheme to obtain $300,000 COVID-19 relief funding for themselves and others. Antonio Crawford submitted false applications in his name, and on behalf of others, in order to obtain more than $750,000 in COVID-19 relief funding. In November 2024, he was sentenced to 45 months in prison, 5 years of supervised release, restitution of $203,347.08, and forfeiture of $173,329.00 in cash seized during a search of Crawford’s home, and $13,642.00 in cash Crawford provided in lieu of forfeiture of his vehicle. BNL Technical Services, LLC (BNL), which provided contract labor services to Hanford Site prime contractors, pleaded guilty in October 2024, to fraudulently obtaining $493,865 as part of a scheme to obtain COVID-19 relief funding. BNL’s labor costs and payroll were paid by the Department of Energy throughout the pandemic. BNL’s owner, Wilson Pershing Stevenson III, agreed to pay $1,105,498 as part of a civil settlement in the case. William Philip Werschler, and his associated businesses , were charged with 23 counts of fraud in October 2024, for fraudulently obtaining and using approximately $1.5 million dollars in COVID-19 relief funds to purchase luxury sports cars, buy real estate, and pay off personal debt. Nathan Michael Triano , obtained six COVID-19 relief loans totaling $140,865.00 by submitting materially false and fraudulent information concerning various purported businesses. In September 2024, he was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release and restitution in the amount of $157,154.50. In August 2024, Gilbert Orosco was indicted for a scheme in which he allegedly conspired with co-conspirators to defraud the United States government and the governments of California, Nevada, and Arizona and obtain money from the states’ COVID relief programs in the form of unemployment insurance proceeds. Marisa Beck submitted false and fraudulent payroll, revenue, and other information associated with three purported businesses to obtain $368,829 in COVID-19 relief funding. In August 2024, Ms. Beck was sentenced to a year in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, as well as restitution of $402,020.32. The Strike Force consists of agency representatives from the USAO, Small Business Administration (SBA) Office of Inspector General (OIG), Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), U.S. Secret Service, U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs OIG, General Services Administration OIG, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) OIG, Internal Revenue Service, Department of Energy OIG, Department of Labor (DOL), and others. Assistant United States Attorneys Dan Fruchter, Brian M. Donovan, Tyler H. L. Tornabene, Frieda K. Zimmerman, and Jeremy J. Kelley are members of the COVID-19 Strike Force and prosecuted these cases on behalf of the United States. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Philadelphia Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Committing Two Armed Carjackings Hours Apart

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Mason Williams-Surzano, 20, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by United States District Court Judge Karen S. Marston to nine years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for committing two carjackings in a matter of hours in December 2023. In September, the defendant pleaded guilty to an information charging him with the carjackings, as well as one count of aiding and abetting the brandishing of a firearm during a crime of violence. On December 13, 2023, at approximately 6:30 p.m., the defendant and three others approached Victim 1 in the area of 1700 Brill Street in Philadelphia. They confronted him at gunpoint and forced him to surrender the keys to his vehicle, a 2016 Volkswagen Passat. Williams-Surzano and the other assailants then fled in the victim’s vehicle, which was recovered by Philadelphia police a few hours later, less than half a mile away from the scene. On December 14, 2023, at approximately 1:10 a.m., the defendant and the same three assailants approached Victim 2 in the area of 1600 Sparks Street in Philadelphia. They confronted him at gunpoint and forced him to surrender the keys to his vehicle, a 2017 Kia Forte. Williams-Surzano and the other carjackers then fled in the Kia. “Imagine staring down the barrel of a gun as a criminal crew demands your car,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Anyone committing a carjacking — let alone two in just a few hours — is a clear danger to our community. We and our partners on the Philadelphia Carjacking Task Force are working every day to make this city safer by identifying, prosecuting, and bringing to justice offenders like Williams-Surzano.” “Violence against innocent Philadelphia victims will not stand, and Williams-Surzano is going to federal prison for the dangerous and senseless crime of carjacking at gunpoint,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF's Philadelphia Field Division. “Together with our Carjacking Task Force partners, and using ATF’s unique forensic and investigative tools, we are bringing criminals like this to justice.” This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael R. Miller and Kwambina I. Coker.


title: Phoenix, Arizona Man Sentenced to 70 Months in Methamphetamine Distribution Conspiracy Case

component: USAO - Vermont

body_text: Burlington, Vermont – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on January 6, 2025, Luis Angel Gerardo Urias, 27, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Christina Reiss to a term of 70 months’ imprisonment. Gerardo Urias previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. According to court records, Gerardo Urias and his co-conspirators participated in a methamphetamine distribution conspiracy that extended from Arizona to Vermont and involved the distribution of over 4.5 kilograms of methamphetamine. The investigation conducted by Homeland Security Investigations revealed that Gerardo Urias and his co-conspirators shipped methamphetamine to Vermont, distributed methamphetamine to an undercover agent in Arizona, and received drug proceeds in cash as well as via money transfer services from Vermont. On March 15, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Gerardo Urias’s residence in Phoenix, Arizona. During the search, law enforcement recovered two firearms that Gerardo Urias possessed: a 9mm semi-automatic handgun and an assault-style rifle, as well as ammunition for those respective firearms. United States Attorney Nikolas P. Kerest commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of Homeland Security Investigations, United States Border Patrol, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Winooski Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew C. Gilman. Gerardo Urias was represented by Karen R. Shingler, Esq.


title: Former State Government Employee and Her Former Boyfriend Plead Guilty to Fraudulently Obtaining COVID Jobless Benefits

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A former employee of the California Employment Development Department (EDD), which administers the state’s unemployment insurance (UI) program, pleaded guilty this afternoon to fraudulently obtaining more than $750,000 in COVID jobless relief. Phyllis Hope Stitt, 61, of Carson, pleaded guilty today to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud and bank fraud for filing at least 29 fraudulent UI claims that caused the EDD to suffer approximately $768,958 in losses. Also pleading guilty today to the same charge was Kenneth Earl Riley, 64, of South Los Angeles, Stitt’s former boyfriend. According to their plea agreements, Stitt and Riley had been in a relationship as domestic partners with each other for over a decade at the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic when Stitt was employed by the EDD as an employment program representative. Her job duties included determining claimant eligibility for unemployment insurance (UI) benefits and performing claim processing activities. From March 2020 to September 2021, while using the access and information available to her in her position with the EDD, Stitt acquired the names, dates of birth, Social Security numbers, and other personal identifying information of victims that were used to submit fraudulent claims. Stitt then filed fraudulent applications for UI benefits without the victims’ knowledge or consent, and then increased the amount of UI benefits paid out by backdating the fraudulent requests to maximize the claims. Stitt certified the fraudulent applications alleging that the victims had submitted their employment history and driver’s license information, and she confirmed they were unemployed because of the pandemic and actively were searching for work. Many of the victims were ineligible to receive these benefits because they were currently employed, not unemployed because of the pandemic, or were deceased at the time. In filing the fraudulent applications, Stitt used mailing addresses that Riley had access to. Debit cards and accounts created as a result of these fraudulent applications were then accessed by Riley and others, who made cash withdrawals at ATMs, bank transfers and retail purchases. United States District Judge André Birotte Jr. scheduled sentencing hearings for May 9, at which time each defendant will face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison. On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . On September 15, 2022, the Attorney General selected the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Central and Eastern Districts of California to jointly head one of three national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The Department of Justice established the Strike Force to enhance existing efforts to combat and prevent COVID-19 related financial fraud. The Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors, as well as those who committed multiple instances of pandemic relief fraud. The Strike Force uses prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. Additional information regarding the Strike Force may be found at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-covid-19-fraud-strike-force-teams . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at (866) 720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . The United States Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, the FBI, and the California Employment Development Department – Investigation Division investigated this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Steven M. Arkow of the Major Frauds Section is prosecuting this case.


title: 45 Year Prison Term for Man Who Shot and Killed a 22-Year-Old in Southeast Washington D.C.

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – Bernard Matthews, 45, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 45 years in prison for the February 16, 2021, shooting of Diamonte Green in Southeast D.C. The announcement was made by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Pamela A. Smith, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). A Superior Court jury found Matthews guilty of first-degree murder while armed, possession of a firearm during a crime of violence, unlawful possession of a firearm and carrying a pistol without a license on August 12, 2024, before the Honorable Michael O’Keefe. According to the evidence presented at trial, around mid-afternoon, on February 16, 2021, Matthews walked several blocks and sought out the victim, 22-year-old Diamonte Green, who was threatening the defendant’s son via Instagram. The defendant shot the unarmed victim eight times inside the entry way of an apartment building at 33 rd and C Street SE, killing him. This case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia. It was prosecuted and tried by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrea Coronado and Kathleen Gibbons of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia.


title: Texas Man Accused of Attempting to Rob an ATM Technician is Facing Federal Charges in Utah

body_text: SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – A federal grand jury in Salt Lake City returned an indictment today charging a Texas man with a violent crime after he allegedly attempted to steal cash from an ATM technician, while armed with a weapon. Jawuan Donte Thomas, 22, of Texas, was initially charged by complaint on December 17, 2024, in Salt Lake County and taken into custody. According to court documents, on December 17, 2024, Thomas attempted to rob a bank technician outside of a Wells Fargo Bank in Draper, Utah. That same morning, a detective with the Riverton Police Department was notified of an intentionally damaged and jammed Wells Fargo ATM in Riverton, Utah. During the investigation, the detective was notified of another intentionally damaged and jammed ATM in Draper. Through surveillance video, detectives ran a license plate that came back to a Jeep. However, the suspect vehicle was not the vehicle associated with the license plate. Shortly after, detectives located the suspect vehicle at the Wells Fargo in Draper. Detectives observed the occupants inside the vehicle pull into the bank parking lot and watch the ATM technician make repairs on the machine. When the technician opened the safe to the ATM, two occupants wearing ski masks exited the vehicle. One of the occupants, later identified as Thomas, was allegedly armed with a screwdriver. Detectives apprehended Thomas, but the other suspect fled in the vehicle. Thomas is charged with one count of bank robbery. His initial appearance on the indictment is January 9, 2025, at 1:00 p.m. in courtroom 8.4 before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at the Orrin G. Hatch United States District Courthouse in downtown Salt Lake City. United States Attorney Trina A. Higgins for the District of Utah made the announcement. The case is being investigated by an FBI Task Force Officer from the South Jordan Police Department. Valuable assistance was provided by the Riverton City Police Department. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah 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 gun violence and other violent crime, 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN . An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Grand Jury Returns Two Drug-Related Indictments

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Western

body_text: MADISON, WIS. - A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and a person named as defendant in an indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. HAYWARD MAN CHARGED WITH TRAFFICKING METHAMPHETAMINE AND FENTANYL Nathanial Z. Johnson, 33, Hayward, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine intended for distribution, possessing fentanyl intended for distribution, and maintaining a drug trafficking premises. The indictment alleges Johnson possessed the methamphetamine and fentanyl and maintained a drug trafficking premises on August 5, 2024. If convicted of the count charging 50 grams of methamphetamine, Johnson faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years in prison and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. The fentanyl charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. The charge of maintaining a drug trafficking premises also carries a maximum penalty of 20 years. The charges against Johnson are the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Sawyer County Sheriff’s Office, the City of Hayward Police Department, and the Wisconsin State Patrol. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also assisted with the investigation. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from local agencies including the Dane County and Clark County Sheriff’s Offices and the Fitchburg, Madison, Sun Prairie, and La Crosse Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ayala is handling the case. HOLMEN MAN CHARGED WITH METHAMPHETAMINE TRAFFICKING Tyler J. Beeler, 33, Holmen, Wisconsin, is charged with possessing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine intended for distribution. The indictment alleges that Beeler possessed the methamphetamine on or about August 20, 2024. If convicted, Beeler faces a minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum penalty of 40 years in prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation conducted by the La Crosse Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Megan Stelljes is handling the case.


title: Marion Man Sentenced to over 17 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who attempted to entice a minor to engage in sex acts was sentenced today to 210 months in federal prison. Cory Gall, age 30, of Marion, Iowa, received the sentence after a July 3, 2024, jury verdict finding him guilty of attempted enticement of a minor. The evidence at trial showed that, in December 2023, Gall exchanged text messages with a person who stated that she was 13 years old. The person was actually an undercover law enforcement officer. Gall sent messages describing sex acts he could perform with the minor, and he traveled to Hiawatha, Iowa, to meet with her. Gall was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams. Gall was sentenced to 210 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a five-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Tremmel and was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Iowa Division of Criminal Investigation, and the Hiawatha Police Department. 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 the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.” Court file information is available at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is CR 24-32. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Des Moines Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Producing and Possessing Child Pornography

body_text: DES MOINES, Iowa – A Des Moines man was sentenced today to 30 years in federal prison for sexual exploitation and attempted sexual exploitation of a child and for possessing child pornography. According to public court documents and evidence presented in court, in 2005 and again from at least 2013 to 2015, Jeffrey Walter Gray, 62, exploited and attempted to exploit dozens of minors to produce child sexual abuse material on more than one hundred occasions. One of the ways Gray made child pornography was through the photography business he owned and operated in the Des Moines area—Wicked Imagery. Unbeknownst to his photography clients, Gray placed hidden cameras in the dressing areas at Wicked Imagery’s photography studios to capture videos of minor children undressing. Some of the child pornography Gray created depict children as young as approximately seven years old. To date, investigators have identified over 20 children depicted in Gray’s collection of child sexual abuse material. Many other children are yet to be identified. Gray also collected material containing child sexual abuse material from the internet. In all, Gray amassed a library of over 10,000 files containing child sexual abuse material, some of which depicted children less than twelve years of age. After completing his term of imprisonment, Gray will be required to serve a seven-year term of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. Restitution to the victims will be determined at a later date. “Child predators like Gray use trust as a weapon for their own depraved goals. This depravity is only outweighed by the strength and courage of the victims involved in this investigation, and the dedication of the law enforcement officers who brought him to justice,” said United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa. “Sexual predators like Gray must and will face accountability and harsh sentences for these crimes of exploitation.” “Identifying, investigating, and apprehending child predators is one of the FBI’s highest priorities. Today’s sentence ensures that Gray will be held accountable for his horrendous actions,” said Eugene Kowel, Special Agent in Charge of the Omaha FBI Field Office. “We are proud of the work of our agents and task force officers in this case. We will remain vigilant in our pursuit of justice in cases like these, ensuring children are protected and perpetrators are brought to justice by partnering with federal, state, and local law enforcement, serving victims and their families, and providing education and conducting outreach in our community.” The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Des Moines Police Department, with assistance from the Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigations. The case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In 2006, the Department of Justice created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Department of Justice’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 www.projectsafechildhood.gov .


title: Okemah Resident Pleads Guilty To Two Counts Of Felony Assault

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Victor Wayne Andrew Artussee, age 31, of Okemah, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea one count of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon with Intent to Do Bodily Harm in Indian Country, and one count of Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Harm in Indian Country. The Indictment alleged that on or about May 11, 2024, Artussee assaulted an individual with a dangerous weapon intending to do bodily harm. The crimes occurred in Okfuskee County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Police. The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Artussee was remanded into the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing.


title: Latimer County Resident Pleads Guilty To Federal Firearm Charge

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Dustin Lee Harp, age 41, of Wilburton, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Illegal Receipt of a Firearm by a Person Under Indictment or Information. The Indictment alleged that between December 12, 2020, and December 9, 2021, Harp willfully received a .22 caliber semi-automatic rifle while under indictment or information for a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jarrod Leaman and Edith Singer represented the United States.


title: Vian Resident Sentenced For Strangling Intimate Partner

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Lucas James Blackbird, age 40, of Vian, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for one count of Assault of a Spouse, Intimate Partner, or Dating Partner by Strangling or Attempting to Strangle in Indian Country. The charge arose from an investigation by the Vian Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. On August 19, 2024, Blackbird pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on February 19, 2024, Blackbird strangled the victim, causing life-threatening injuries. The crimes occurred in Sequoyah County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing in Muskogee. Blackbird will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan E. Soverly represented the United States.


title: Okemah Resident Sentenced For Felony Assault

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Tanner Wayne Hicks, age 34, of Okemah, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 60 months in prison for one count of Assault Resulting in Substantial Bodily Injury to a Spouse, Intimate Partner, or Dating Partner in Indian Country. The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Lighthorse Tribal Police. On June 11, 2024, Hicks pleaded guilty to the charge. According to investigators, on January 31, 2024, officers responding to an emergency callout discovered the victim bruised and bleeding after being struck by Hicks in the head and face with closed fists. The crime occurred in Okemah County, within the boundaries of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Hicks will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Robinson represented the United States.


title: Choctaw County Resident Pleads Guilty To Distributing Methamphetamine

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Cory Lamont Bostic, a/k/a Cory L. Neal, age 48, of Hugo, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Distribution of Methamphetamine. The Indictment alleged that on September 7, 2023, Bostic knowingly and intentionally possessed methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, which he intended to distribute. The charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, and the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police. The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Bostic will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Howanitz represented the United States.


title: Auburn Man Sentenced to 35 Months for Cocaine Base Trafficking

body_text: PORTLAND, Maine: An Auburn man was sentenced in U.S. District Court in Portland today for distributing cocaine base. U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced Devonne Scott , 31, to 35 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release. Scott pleaded guilty on September 19, 2024. According to court records, in July 2023, a confidential informant reported to the FBI that a man they knew agreed to sell the informant crack cocaine. In August 2023, the informant conducted two controlled buys of suspected cocaine base from Scott with the exchanges monitored and videotaped by the FBI and law enforcement partners. Laboratory tests confirmed the substances purchased contained cocaine base. The FBI investigated the case, together with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Lewiston Police Department. ###


title: Postal Employee Convicted for Role Supplying Checks to Telegram Scam Channel

component: USAO - Alabama, Northern

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A former U.S. Postal employee has been convicted at trial for his role in supplying stolen checks to a scam Telegram channel called “The Lucky Shop,” announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and FBI Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples, U.S. Postal Inspection Service Inspector-in-Charge Mona Hernandez, Houston Division, and United States Secret Service Special Agent in Charge Patrick Davis. The jury returned a guilty verdict against Michael Christopher Rowser, 24, of Birmingham, after three days of testimony before U.S. District Court Judge Madeline H. Haikala. Rowser was convicted of conspiracy to receive bribes and conspiracy to commit wire and bank fraud. According to evidence presented at trial, “The Lucky Shop” was a scam Telegram channel dedicated to the sale of stolen checks and bank login information. It operated as a criminal marketplace. Administrators of “The Lucky Shop” would obtain stolen checks from corrupt postal employees like the defendant, and then post redacted copies of those checks on the channel to market them for sale. When customers of “The Lucky Shop” paid the channel’s administrators to purchase stolen checks, a portion of their profits would be kicked back to the defendant. The evidence established that Rowser, a mail handler at the U.S. Postal Service’s Processing & Distribution Center in Birmingham, received approximately $106,000 in bribe payments over the course of a year for his role supplying checks to “The Lucky Shop.” Rowser is scheduled to be sentenced on April 7, 2025. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the U.S. Postal Service Office of Inspector General, and the U.S. Secret Service investigated the case, which is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Edward J. Canter and Daniel S. McBrayer.


title: New Hampshire Man Pleads Guilty to PPP, EIDL Loan Fraud Conspiracy

component: USAO - Maine

body_text: PORTLAND, Maine: A Plymouth, New Hampshire man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Portland today to conspiring to commit wire fraud. According to court records, in 2020 and 2021, Tyree Jones , 32, conspired with others to exploit the COVID19 pandemic by submitting fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) funds. Jones submitted three fraudulent applications for himself and obtained $51,666. On his applications, Jones claimed to be the sole proprietor of non-existent businesses in the agricultural and trucking industries. In addition to filing fraudulent applications for himself, Jones offered to help others obtain PPP and EIDL funds in exchange for “kickbacks” from any funds they received. Jones and coconspirators caused fraudulent applications to be filed for at least 12 other people. As part of the false applications, Jones and his coconspirators filed falsified IRS and bank documents. Jones faces up to 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of $250,000, followed by up to three years of supervised release. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act: The Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020. It was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who suffered economic effects resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act made Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) funding available to business owners negatively affected by the COVID19 pandemic. EIDL proceeds were funded by the Small Business Administration (SBA) and disbursed by the U.S. Treasury. EIDLs could only be used to pay fixed debts, payroll, accounts payable and other bills that could have been paid had the COVID19 disaster not occurred. Paycheck Protection Program (PPP): The PPP was a COVID-19 pandemic relief program administered by the SBA that provided forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses. The PPP permitted participating third-party lenders to approve and disburse SBA-backed PPP loans to cover payroll, fixed debts, utilities, rent/mortgage, accounts payable and other bills incurred by qualifying businesses during, and resulting from, the COVID-19 pandemic. PPP loans were fully guaranteed by the SBA. ###


title: Man Sentenced for Firearm and Drug Trafficking Crimes

body_text: United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Kim T. Duluony, age 32, of Omaha, Nebraska was sentenced on January 8, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine and possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Duluony to 60 months’ imprisonment on the drug charge and a consecutive 60 months’ imprisonment on the firearm charge, for a total sentence of 120 months. There is no parole in the federal system. After Duluony is released from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. On March 9, 2023, members of the Omaha Metro Fugitive Task Force went to an Omaha home to look for a wanted party. While searching for the wanted fugitive they had contact with Kim Duluony, who also lived at the home. A search of the home revealed numerous firearms and narcotics. The wanted party was not located. Within Duluony’s room, officers found two firearms, marijuana, and cocaine. A Glock 23 pistol equipped with a Glock Switch which enabled the pistol to fire fully automatically was located in a bag inside the closet. A second Glock switch was also found in the room. A second Glock 23 pistol was also found in a black nylon bag on the floor. Officers discovered a cardboard box in the corner of the bedroom which contained a bag of marijuana and a Newport cigarette pack which contained ten small baggies of powder cocaine each weighing 1 gram and consistent with narcotics trafficking. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Omaha Police Department and United States Marshals Service Omaha Metro Fugitive Task Force.


title: Omaha Woman Sentenced to 25 Months & Ordered to Pay Over $337,585 in Restitution to Victims of Catfishing Scheme

component: USAO - Nebraska

body_text: United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that Julie Okoronkwo, age 48, of Omaha, Nebraska was sentenced on January 8, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for conspiracy to commit mail fraud and aggravated identity theft. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Okoronkwo to 25 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After her release from prison, Okoronkwo will be placed on a 2-year term of supervised release. Okoronkwo was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $337,535.00 to six victims of her crimes. Julie Okoronkwo and her spouse, Edwin Okoronkwo, residing in Nebraska, used “catfishing” schemes to obtain money from victims via the Internet. In doing so, they convinced victims to send money using false online social media personas. In some instances, they claimed to be high-ranking members of the United States military on overseas missions. Through the “catfishing” schemes, victims from all over the country were tricked into sending money through the United States Postal Service (USPS) and other commercial carriers such as FedEx and UPS. The Okoronkwos used victims’ personal identifying information (PII) obtained from identity theft victims to open bank accounts and other online financial services accounts, including peer-to-peer digital payments platforms (e.g., PayPal and Venmo, Zelle, and Cash App). They directed the victims of the “catfishing” schemes to send money from the victims’ personal peer-to-peer digital payment platform accounts to the peer-to-peer digital payment platforms opened by the Okoronkwos using the names and PII of the identity theft victims. From those false accounts, the Okoronkwos would then transfer money into their personal bank accounts, to bank accounts opened using the names of identity theft victims but controlled by the Okoronkwos, or to cryptocurrency exchange platforms. Some of the money would also then be passed along to recipients overseas via international wire transfers through remittance services. Julie Okoronkwo contacted “catfishing” victims over the phone to further convince them of the legitimacy of their need for cash, frequently purporting to be a nanny to children of the fictional online personas they’d created, who were often portrayed as members of the United States military on overseas missions. Julie Okoronkwo also obtained from her workplace – a hospital – her victims’ means of identification, including their social security numbers and Nebraska driver’s license information. The means of identification were used by the Okoronkwos in furtherance of their “catfishing” schemes. The aggregate loss to the victims was determined to be between $250,000 to $550,000. Edwin Okoronkwo’s sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 29, 2025. This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.


title: Omaha Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Marijuana, and Fentanyl

body_text: United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Terrance Traynham, age 30, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced January 8, 2025, in federal court in Omaha for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, 100 grams or more of marijuana, and fentanyl. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Aaron to 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Traynham is released from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. Beginning in July 2016, and continuing until approximately July 18, 2020, Terrance Traynham was part of an agreement with other individuals to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute meth, fentanyl, and marijuana in the Omaha area. Traynham distributed 2 kilograms of meth, 130 kilograms of marijuana, and 58 grams of fentanyl during the conspiracy. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.


title: Virginia Contractor to Pay Over $2.6M to Settle Allegations of Falsely Obtaining Small Business Contracts

component: Civil Division

body_text: R&K Enterprises Inc. (R&K), headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, has agreed to pay over $2.6 million to resolve allegations under the False Claims Act and the common law that the company represented that it was a small business eligible for certain small business set-aside contracts when it did not meet the program rules to qualify as a small business. The United States alleged that R&K represented and certified in its bid that it met the size standard for the General Services Administration’s One Acquisition Solution for Integrated Services Small Business Pool 1 Contract — measured in average revenue over the previous three years from the date of the bid — when it did not. To appear to meet the size standard, R&K allegedly novated a contract to another company, K&P Management Inc. (K&P), and represented the two companies were not affiliated. The United States alleged that, under the applicable rules, the two companies were affiliated based on several factors, including that the wife of R&K’s owner owned K&P, all of K&P’s purported revenue came from R&K, the two companies shared executives and R&K exercised control over K&P. As a result, the United States contended that R&K should have included K&Ps revenue in R&K’s calculation of its size. “Small business set-aside contracts assist small businesses to compete,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “When ineligible companies fraudulently obtain contracts reserved for small businesses, they prevent the small business community from receiving the contracting opportunities that Congress intended.” “My office is committed to identifying, investigating and eradicating attempts to exploit programs intended to protect competition for contracts,” said U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Aber for the Eastern District of Virginia. “The complex, multi-agency investigation that culminated in this settlement exemplifies the importance of strong partnerships that maximize our expertise and authority to effectively enforce the law.” “We will work with law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of small business fraud, including companies that misrepresent their status to get federal contracts,” said Deputy Inspector General Robert C. Erickson of the General Services Administration (GSA). The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia with assistance from the GSA Office of Inspector General, Small Business Administration and Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General. Trial Attorney Danielle Rowan of the Justice Department’s Civil Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Clare Wuerker for the Eastern District of Virginia investigated the matter. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability. Settlement


title: Justice Department Launches 2025 Access to Justice Prize to Address the Rural Justice Gap

component: Office for Access to Justice

body_text: The Justice Department’s Office for Access to Justice today announced the launch of the Access to Justice Prize, a year-long prize competition that aims to foster innovative solutions to address critical gaps in access to justice across the United States. The inaugural competition will focus on access to justice gaps faced by rural communities across the country, aiming to advance general public awareness about rural access to justice gaps; prompt and support the development of new and innovative solutions; and promote the replication and expansion of strategies that work. “Through our engagement with courts, justice practitioners, legal aid providers, academic institutions and other organizations across the country, we’ve heard loud and clear that solutions to close the rural justice gap must begin with rural communities themselves,” said Director Rachel Rossi of the Justice Department’s Office for Access to Justice. “Through the Access to Justice Prize competition, we further this approach, empowering those who best know the barriers their communities face to drive the effective solutions that will ensure access to justice for all, regardless of geography.” Nationwide access to justice barriers are often exacerbated for rural Americans, especially when unique circumstances like long travel times, limited internet access or lack of attorneys are too often overlooked. A 2022 study by the Legal Services Corporation revealed that 77% of low-income rural households experienced at least one civil legal problem in the previous year, with 94% receiving inadequate or no legal help. Additionally, rural criminal justice systems are strained by part-time judges, contract defense counsel and lacking prosecutorial resources. Studies demonstrate that recruitment and retention challenges are increasing for criminal justice careers in rural areas, including for public defenders, prosecutors and law enforcement. And rural courts face rising caseloads, delay, uneven workloads among judges and lack of resources. The 2025 Access to Justice Prize aims to inspire and support innovative ideas that address these challenges by engaging those closest to the issues — rural courts, practitioners and organizations. Eligible participants are encouraged to submit proposals for any solutions that expand access to justice, including, for example, solutions to: Increase access to legal representation, assistance or information; Simplify legal processes, systems, forms or language; Leverage technology to enhance legal system efficiency; Expand access for underserved rural populations, including Tribal communities and individuals with disabilities; and Build innovative partnerships to address local justice needs. More information and additional examples can be found here . The competition will run on a one-year cycle, starting in January 2025, and will feature two judging phases: Finalist Selection: Up to five finalists will receive $5,000 each and then refine their proposals over a six-month phase in preparation to compete for the grand prize. Grand Prize Selection: Finalists will present their solutions at an Access to Justice Showcase, where judges will select the grand prize winner to receive $50,000. Below is the timeline for the year-long Access to Justice Prize competition cycle: Jan. 7: Submissions open March 31: Submission deadline April 30: Finalists announced May 1 – Oct. 31: Refinement Phase Early December 2025: Grand Prize Showcase and winner announcement Applicants are encouraged to visit the Access to Justice Prize website on Challenge.gov to review eligibility requirements, submission guidelines, and resources. The Office for Access to Justice will also present an informational webinar on Feb. 11 at 3:00 PM EST. Applications may be submitted beginning on Jan. 7 and must be received by 11:59 PM EST on March 31. The Access to Justice Prize competition continues the ongoing work of the Office for Access to Justice to engage with and support rural communities in closing the justice gap. This includes the publication of resources to support rural access to justice; a focus on economic barriers faced by rural communities ; and broad engagement with rural-focused court leaders , access to justice commissions , initiatives (including the Kansas Rural Justice Initiative Committee and the Alaska Legal Services Corporation’s Community Justice Workers project), criminal justice practitioners , civil legal aid providers , pro bono volunteers and more. Entities and organizations are encouraged to also review their eligibility for Justice Department grant funding opportunities that may support rural justice initiatives and programs, including those specifically focused on rural jurisdictions, such as the Rural Program administered by the Office on Violence Against Women and the Rural Violent Crime Reduction Initiative administered by the Office of Justice Programs.


title: Justice Department Modernizes Process that Federal Agencies Use to Acquire Real Property

component: Energy and Natural Resources Division

body_text: The Justice Department today announced the completion of a major effort to modernize the process that federal agencies use to acquire real property. Over the past two years, the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD) has collaborated with attorneys throughout the federal government to identify outdated provisions in delegations of authority previously issued by the Justice Department between 1970 and 1991. As a result of that effort, on Dec. 10, 2024 — pursuant to 40 U.S.C. § 3111(b) — Assistant Attorney General Todd Kim of ENRD issued 10 revised delegations of title review authority to land-acquiring federal agencies. These revised delegations should reduce the unnecessary duplication of effort by agency and Justice Department staff, promoting government efficiency and saving taxpayer funds. Before the United States may acquire real property, 40 U.S.C. § 3111 requires that the Attorney General must first determine that the purchase will include sufficient title for the United States to use the property as intended. In 1970, because most land-acquiring agencies already employed legal staff qualified to review title evidence and make that determination, Congress authorized the Justice Department to delegate title review responsibility, allowing agency counsel to approve sufficiency of title on behalf of the Attorney General subject to Justice Department supervision and regulation. The Attorney General, through the Assistant Attorney General, subsequently delegated title review authority to 10 different land-acquiring agencies. Many provisions of the original delegations are outdated, including references to since-replaced regulations and a now-unnecessary restriction on agency approval of title in certain acquisitions valued at more than $100,000. Additionally, since 1970, Congress has dissolved one affected agency, the Atomic Energy Commission, and administratively transferred another, the United States Coast Guard. The revised delegations address these issues, incorporating the Regulations of the Attorney General Governing the Review and Approval of Title for Federal Land Acquisitions (2016) , eliminating the $100,000 limitation on certain acquisitions and identifying the modern version of each relevant agency. “The revised delegations will enhance the productive working relationship that the Justice Department has always maintained with its agency partners, ensuring that each land acquisition complies with federal law while also promoting government efficiency and the conservation of taxpayer resources,” said Assistant Attorney General Kim. “This was a years-long project that will have a tangible effect on thousands of real property acquisitions by the federal government every year. I want to thank not only the Justice Department attorneys involved in this project, but also those throughout the entire federal government who contributed their ideas, experience, and expertise.” The following agencies received revised delegations of authority: the Department of Agriculture, Department of the Army, Department of Energy, Department of Homeland Security, Department of the Interior, Department of the Navy, Department of Transportation, Department of Veterans Affairs, the General Services Administration and the U.S. Section of the International Boundary and Water Commission. ENRD’s Land Acquisition Section — including Section Chief Andrew M. Goldfrank, Division Counsel for Title Matters Georgia Garthwaite and Trial Attorney Ben McMurtray — led the effort.


title: Connecticut Dentist Pays More than $600K to Settle False Claims Allegations

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, and William Tong, Connecticut Attorney General, today announced that LAKSHMI BETHI, DMD and her former businesses, NEW HAVEN DENTAL LLC, NEW HAVEN FAMILY DENTAL LLC, and NEW HAVEN FAMILY DENTAL GROUP LLC, have entered into a civil settlement agreement with the federal and state governments and have paid $608,296.39 to resolve allegations that they violated the federal and state False Claims Acts. Bethi is licensed to practice dentistry in Connecticut. Bethi, New Haven Dental LLC, New Haven Family Dental LLC, and New Haven Family Dental Group LLC were enrolled as dental providers in the Connecticut Medical Assistance Program (“CTMAP”), which includes the state’s Medicaid program. It is alleged that, in violation of their CTMAP provider agreements and the federal Anti-Kickback Statute, Bethi and her dental practices submitted claims to the CTMAP related to dental services rendered to Connecticut Medicaid patients referred to the businesses by a third-party “patient recruiting” company. Bethi and her dental practices paid a patient recruiter $110 for each Connecticut Medicaid patient the recruiter referred to them whenever the patient received services over and above routine preventative care, such as dental cleanings and exams, and submitted claims for dental services rendered to those patients. With each submitted claim, they impliedly certified that the conditions of receiving payment were met, including, but not limited to, that they did not pay kickbacks or violate any terms or provisions of the Connecticut Dental Health Partnership (“CTDHP”) provider manual concerning the submitted claim. The CTDHP provider manual, which is an addendum to both the CTMAP provider agreement and the CTMAP provider manual, expressly prohibits per-patient compensation for individuals referred to CMAP providers. To resolve the allegations under the federal and state False Claims Acts, Bethi, New Haven Dental LLC, New Haven Family Dental LLC, and New Haven Family Dental Group LLC agreed to pay $608,296.39 to reimburse the Medicaid program for conduct occurring from January 1, 2019, through April 6, 2023. Under the False Claims Act, the government can recover up to three times its actual damages, plus penalties of $13,946 to $27,894 for each false claim. In a related federal criminal case , Bethi pleaded guilty to conspiracy to violate the federal anti-kickback statute, admitting that between 2016 and 2023, she paid patient recruiters more than $360,000 in kickbacks. Connecticut Medicaid reimbursed Bethi approximately $2.2 million for services rendered to patients recruited via kickbacks. On December 18, 2024, she was sentenced in New Haven federal court to two years of probation and was ordered to forfeit $500,000. This case stems from a larger investigation into fraudulent activity by health care providers who submit kickback-tainted claims to the CTMAP for services rendered to Connecticut Medicaid patients referred by third-party patient recruiting companies. This investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of the Inspector General; the Connecticut Attorney General’s Office; and the Connecticut Department of Social Services. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Anne Thidemann and Elena Coronado, and Assistant Attorney General Joshua L. Jackson of the Connecticut Office of the Attorney General. People who suspect health care fraud are encouraged to report it by calling 1-800-HHS-TIPS.


title: Manchester Man Pleads Guilty to the Illegal Possession of Ammunition

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A Manchester man pleaded guilty today in federal court to the illegal possession of ammunition, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces. Eric Edmondson, 46, pleaded guilty to the possession of ammunition by a prohibited person. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph Laplante scheduled sentencing for April 17, 2025. On September 11, 2023, a motorist called 911 to report a potential road rage incident involving a driver, of a small black sedan with temporary NH plates, who displayed an apparent firearm. Law enforcement responded, identified the suspect vehicle, and initiated a stop along Route 101. The defendant was driving the vehicle and was arrested on an outstanding state arrest warrant. A subsequent state search warrant yielded a privately manufactured firearm and five rounds of 9 mm ammunition in the defendant’s vehicle. The defendant, a felon, is prohibited from owning or possessing ammunition. The charging statute provides a sentence of no greater than 15 years in prison, 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. The New Hampshire State Police and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives led the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles L. Rombeau is prosecuting the case. ###


title: Laconia Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Methamphetamine  and Possessing a Firearm as a Prohibited Person

body_text: CONCORD – A Laconia man pleaded guilty in federal court in connection with his distribution of methamphetamine and his possession of a firearm as a prohibited person, Attorney Jane E. Young announces. Steven Ridgeway, 50, pleaded guilty to two counts of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. U.S. District Court Judge Joseph N. Laplante scheduled sentencing for April 17, 2025. A confidential informant purchased a total of approximately 165 grams of methamphetamine from Ridgeway on July 5 and July 24, 2023. During the July 24, 2023, drug sale, Ridgeway also sold the confidential informant a pistol. Ridgeway, a felon, is prohibited from owning or possessing firearms and ammunition. The charges of distribution of methamphetamine provide a maximum prison term of 20 years, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, and at least 3 years of supervised release. The charge of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person provides a maximum prison term of 15 years, a maximum fine of $250,000, and not more than 3 years of supervised release. 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. The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Major Offender Task Force led the investigation. The Major Offender Task Force is comprised of federal agents partnered with law enforcement officers from police departments state-wide. Valuable assistance was provided by the New Hampshire Attorney General’s Drug Task Force, the New Hampshire State Police, and the Laconia Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Heather A. Cherniske prosecuted the case. ###