title: Felon Involved in Hartford Shootout Sentenced to More Than 6 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAMES DUDLEY, also known as “Pooka,” 36, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kari A. Dooley in Bridgeport to 77 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a firearm, and for violating the conditions of his supervised release from a prior federal conviction. According to court documents and statements made in court, in the early morning hours of October 4, 2020, Hartford Police officers responded to Addison Street after hearing gunfire in the area. As a car containing Dudley attempted to flee the scene, an officer on foot ordered it to stop. The driver put the car in reverse and drove at a high rate of speed before striking a parked vehicle and injuring a woman who was about to enter the car. Dudley then threw a .40 caliber pistol from the car as it successfully fled. The recovered pistol had a magazine inserted and its slide locked back, indicating that the gun was fired until empty. Officers also recovered numerous .40 caliber and 9mm shell casings from the area. According to the ShotSpotter detection system, 26 shots were fired during the incident. Subsequent forensic analysis of the seized firearm revealed Dudley’s DNA. Dudley was arrested on April 11, 2022. Dudley’s criminal history includes state convictions for robbery and narcotics offenses, and federal convictions for firearm and drug offenses for which he served 52 months of imprisonment. He was released from federal prison in November 2018 and was on supervised release at the time of the shooting incident in this case. It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce. Dudley has been detained since his arrest. On May 4, 2022, he pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. This case was investigated by the Hartford Police Department and the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, with the assistance of the Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory. The Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, New Britain Police Department, West Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction. This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming through the Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) initiative. PSN is 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. In May 2021, the Justice Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: Fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Former law enforcement officer convicted of sexually abusing young children

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Tacoma – A 69-year-old member of the Lower Elwha S’Klallam Tribe was convicted today of nine federal crimes related to the sexual abuse of minors, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. Joseph Anthony Turrey, of Port Angeles, Washington, was convicted following a seven-day jury trial. The jury deliberated for about two days before returning the guilty verdicts. Turrey was remanded to federal custody to await sentencing. U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle scheduled the sentencing for June 5, 2023. In 2021, according to records filed in the case, three victims disclosed abuse by the defendant that occurred between 2008 and 2016. The charged assaults occurred on tribal land, triggering federal jurisdiction. Two of the victims were as young as 6 and 7 years old when the sexual assaults began. Early in his career, in 1993-94, Turrey served as a law enforcement officer on the Hoh Reservation. Turrey, and those who knew him at that time, described his role as Chief of Police. The Hoh Tribe has no record of that position, but is aware that Turrey was employed by the tribe and supervised a fisheries enforcement officer. Turrey went on to serve as a police officer for the Lower Elwah Tribe and also served on the Tribal Council. Turrey was convicted of six counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor, two counts of Sexual Abuse of a Minor, and one count of Abusive Sexual Contact. Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor is punishable by a mandatory-minimum sentence of 30 years in prison and a maximum of life. Abusive Sexual Contact is punishable by a maximum of life in prison. Sexual Abuse of a Minor is punishable by a maximum of 15 years in prison. The case was investigated by the FBI and Lower Elwha S’Klallam Police Department, with assistance from the National Park Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristine Foerster, Will Dreher, and Jonas Lerman.


title: Two Men Plead Guilty in Wide-Ranging Drug Conspiracy

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – Two men pleaded guilty today in federal court in Worcester to their roles in a wide-ranging fentanyl, heroin, crack, and cocaine trafficking conspiracy. Ivan Torres, 32, of Fitchburg, and Abel Rodriguez Rivera, 35, of Ponce, Puerto Rico, pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 280 grams or more of cocaine base (commonly known as crack cocaine), and 500 grams or more of cocaine. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Timothy S. Hillman scheduled sentencings for Sept. 7, 2023. Torres and Rivera were indicted on July 22, 2020, along with 15 other defendants. According to court documents, following a fatal fentanyl overdose in September 2018, an investigation began into a drug trafficking organization in the Fitchburg area. Beginning in July 2019, court authorized interceptions of wire and electronic communications to and from telephones used by members of the drug trafficking organization and its suppliers revealed that Torres and Rivera were both cocaine dealers. Over the course of the investigation, over 1.8 kilograms of a heroin/fentanyl mixture, over 3.6 kilograms of cocaine, over 50 grams of crack cocaine, a stolen, loaded handgun, drug manufacturing equipment and over $376,000 in U.S. currency were seized. Torres and Rivera are the 16th and 17th defendants to be convicted in this case – either by guilty plea or jury conviction following trial. United States Attorney Rachael S. Rollins; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Commissioner Carol Mici of the Massachusetts Department of Correction; and John E. Mawn Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police, made the announcement today. The Fitchburg and Lunenburg Police Departments, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Massachusetts State Police provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Alathea Porter of Rollins’ Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF. The details contained in the indictment are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Former L.A. Resident Arrested on Complaint Alleging Multimillion-Dollar Frauds Targeting Members of Orthodox Jewish Community

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A former resident of the Fairfax District of Los Angeles has been arrested on a criminal complaint alleging he defrauded investors, primarily members of the Orthodox Jewish community, by inducing them into investing millions of dollars in his security camera business and his purported real estate ventures in Israel, the Justice Department announced today. Yossi Engel, 35, who moved to Israel in March 2021 but temporarily returned to the Los Angeles area last month, is charged with one count of wire fraud. Engel was arrested Wednesday night at Los Angeles International Airport as he was attempting to leave the country. He is expected to make his initial court appearance this afternoon in United States District Court. According to an affidavit filed with the complaint, Engel orchestrated a scheme in which he made false representations and used forged documents to induce victims to make investments in and provide loans for iWitness Tech Inc., a Hancock Park-based security camera company and for properties Engel falsely claimed to own and be developing in Israel. From September 2018 to January 2021, Engel allegedly used his community relationships to defraud victims, who primarily came from the Orthodox Jewish communities in the Los Angeles and New York areas. Engel allegedly claimed to need money in the form of short-term loans with high rates of return for iWitness’ business operations, namely the purported purchase and installation of security cameras for its customers. Engel offered short-term investments and loans in iWitness that ranged from $15,000 to $1.3 million. The investments and loans were for two weeks to six months and would purportedly provide investors with 10% to 60% annualized interest, according to the affidavit. Victims were duped, in part, by being shown copies of false and fraudulent invoices of work iWitness purportedly did with other companies. Engel told victims that iWitness was a large business with many clients, but in fact it did not have as much business as he claimed, and work was so slack that at times iWitness employees sat around waiting for work while Engel slept on a couch, the affidavit states. In another part of the scheme, Engel allegedly also falsely claimed to own and be developing real estate in Israel, telling victims that he needed money for redevelopment work, and falsely promising he would sell the properties and share the profits with investors. Engel showed victims a video depicting himself socializing with the mayor of Bnei Brak, Israel, and claimed to have met with the mayor concerning Engel’s purported real estate deals in the city, the affidavit states. But Engel did not have a close relationship with the mayor, and he did not discuss with the mayor these real estate ventures in the city, according to the affidavit. Engel allegedly used fraudulent Israel land documents to dupe victims into thinking he owned these properties. Through these fake documents and his own trusted position in the Orthodox Jewish community, Engel allegedly lulled existing victims and encouraged new victims to send him money. Engel lied to investors that he needed private investments for both iWitness and the Israeli real estate projects because he was from Israel and did not have sufficient credit in the United States to obtain the lower interest rates available through U.S. banks, the affidavit states. But, the affidavit alleges, Engel did not use the victims’ money as promised, and instead used it for his personal expenses – including trips via private jets and casino visits – and to make Ponzi payments to investors to perpetuate the scheme. Once the alleged scheme fell apart in early 2021, Engel fled the United States for Israel. At this time, the FBI has identified losses of approximately $5 million. The federal criminal investigation is continuing. A complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. If convicted, Engel would face a statutory maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. In January 2023, the United States Securities and Exchange Commission sued Engel , alleging he used his ties in the Orthodox Jewish community to perpetuate a multimillion-dollar million affinity fraud. The FBI is investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Steven M. Arkow of the Major Frauds Section is prosecuting this case.


title: Federal Jury Finds Louisville Woman Guilty of Mailing Threatening Communications to Neighbors Because of Their Race

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – Today a federal jury convicted a local woman of mailing communications containing threats to injure others in November and December of 2020. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jodi Cohen of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division made the announcement. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Suzanne Craft, 54, sent multiple threating communications via the United States Postal Service to a family that lived in her Lake Forrest neighborhood. Many of these communications contained threats of violence and racial slurs. The jury convicted Craft of five counts of mailing threatening communications in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 876(c). The jury further found that for each of these five counts, Craft sent the threatening communications to her neighbors because of their actual or perceived race or color. Sentencing is scheduled for June 21, 2023, before a United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky. Craft remains in federal custody pending sentencing and faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system. The FBI Louisville Public Corruption Civil Rights Task Force and the United States Postal Inspection Service are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Tieke and Stephanie Zimdahl are prosecuting the case, with assistance from paralegal Carissa Moss. ###


title: Ogden Man Sentenced to 18 Months Imprisonment for Possessing a Firearm as a Prior Convicted Felon

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: Salt Lake City , Utah – A Utah man was sentenced to a term of imprisonment of one and a half years followed by a 36-month term of supervised release for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon for a prior burglary conviction. According to court documents, on January 7, 2021, Taydon Tailor Law, 22, of Ogden, Utah, a convicted felon restricted from owning or possessing a firearm or ammunition, possessed a Ruger LC9, 9mm firearm and ammunition that he took without permission from a home where he was working. The firearm and ammunition were not manufactured in the state of Utah and travelled in interstate commerce. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah will continue to prosecute cases where individuals illegally possess and transfer firearms putting our citizens at risk,” said U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins. “Our goal is to prevent gun violence and we appreciate the commitment from our law enforcement partners who work to bring justice to victims and the community for these crimes.” The case was investigated by the Ogden Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney, Branden B. Miles, for the District of Utah prosecuted the case. This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Mexican National Pleads Guilty for Illegal Re-Entry

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS- JUAN MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA , a/k/a “Fernando A. Lopez,” a/k/a “Juan C. Martinez,” a/k/a “Oscar Flores,” a/k/a “Martin Peralta,” a/k/a “Juan Castaneda,” age 54, pled guilty on March 9, 2023 to a one-count indictment for illegal reentry of a removed alien in violation of Title 8, United States Code, Section 1326(a), announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to documents filed in court and signed by him, JUAN MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA (“ MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA ”) admitted reentering the United States after being previously deported on February 3, 2003. MARTINEZ-CASTANEDA faces a maximum term of imprisonment of two years, a maximum fine of up to $250,000, a maximum term of supervised release of up to one year, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement in investigating this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K. D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Peoria, Illinois, Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of More than 50 Grams of Methamphetamine (“Ice”) with the Intent to Distribute

component: Department of Justice

body_text: PEORIA, Ill. – A Peoria, Illinois, man, Keyshawn Q. Banks, 24, of the 1000 block of West Thrush Avenue, was sentenced on March 9, 2023, to 120 months of imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine (“Ice”). At the sentencing hearing before Senior U.S. District Judge Michael M. Mihm, the government presented evidence establishing that Banks distributed ice methamphetamine in the Peoria area from at least March 2022 to July 2022. On July 13, 2022, officers intercepted Banks in his vehicle on his way to a drug sale. When several officers surrounded his vehicle, Banks tried to flee from the scene but struck a nearby house and was apprehended. Officers then found 118 grams of methamphetamine on the backseat of his car. The methamphetamine was 99% pure. Banks was held accountable for possessing and distributing 2.78 pounds of methamphetamine over the course of the four-month investigation. A criminal complaint was filed against Banks in July 2022, and he was indicted in August 2022. He entered a guilty plea in September 2022. Judge Mihm accepted Banks’s guilty plea in December 2022. The statutory penalty for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute is a minimum of ten years to life imprisonment, a possible fine of up to $10 million dollars, and no less than 5 years to life of supervised release. The United States Drug Enforcement Administration (“DEA”), and Peoria Police Department, assisted by the Illinois State Police Tri-County Drug Enforcement Narcotics Team (“TRIDENT”), investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ronald L. Hanna represented the government in the prosecution. The case against Banks is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Waterville Man Faces Up to 20 Years, $250K Fine for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: Office of the Inspector General

body_text: BANGOR, Maine: A Waterville man pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in Bangor today to possessing child sexual abuse material. According to court records, Terrence Talbot , 56, used a government computer to search for and obtain child sexual abuse material. He stored downloaded still and video files on removable digital media devices. Talbot faces up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine and up to a lifetime of supervised release. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigation report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The U.S. Department of the Interior, Office of the Inspector General investigated this case. To report an incident involving the possession, distribution, receipt or production of child pornography: Child sexual abuse material – "child pornography" – captures the sexual abuse and exploitation of children. These images document victims’ exploitation and abuse, and they suffer re-victimization every time the images are viewed. File a report with the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children at https://report.cybertip.org or 1-800-843-5678 . If you are in Maine and you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted or abused, you can get help by calling the free, private 24-hour statewide sexual assault helpline at 1-800-871-7741 . Project Safe Childhood: This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc . # # #


title: Springfield, Illinois, Man Sentenced to 100 Months for Distributing Heroin

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A Springfield, Illinois, man, Kenneth Neal, 32, of the 1800 block of Stanhope Road, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge Sue E. Myerscough to 100 months in prison, to be followed by six years of supervised release, for distributing 110 grams of heroin between December 2019 and February 2020. Neal has been detained since his arrest and is presently serving a previously imposed state sentence in the Illinois Department of Corrections. The statutory penalties for distribution of heroin after having previously been convicted of a qualifying prior offense are: not more than 30 years in prison, not more than a $2,000,000 fine, and not less than six years of supervised release. The Drug Enforcement Administration and Springfield Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Z. Weir represented the government in the prosecution. The case against Neal is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Tampa Bowling Arcade Shooter Sentenced

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Cedric Durham, Jr. (22, Tampa) to four years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Durham had pleaded guilty on November 28, 2022. According to court documents, on March 6, 2022, a shooting occurred at the Pin Chasers Bowling Arcade in Tampa. Durham was the initial target and after being shot at, returned fire. Law enforcement arrived on scene as individuals were dispersing from the area in fear. Durham was arrested shortly after the shooting, after law enforcement observed him leaving the scene. The vehicle in which Durham was traveling was stopped and a firearm was found in Durham’s possession. The firearm matched the forensic evidence at the scene indicating that Durham had returned fire using 30 rounds of ammunition. Durham was previously convicted of a felony offense and, therefore, is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maria Guzman. 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, 2021m the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Alexandria Man Sentenced for Bank Fraud and  Aggravated Identify Theft

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALEXANDRIA, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Robert Lee Daniel, III , of Alexandria, Louisiana , has been sentenced by United States District Judge Dee D. Drell to 65 months in prison for Bank Fraud and Aggravated Identity Theft. Following his release from prison, Daniel will be placed on supervised release for a period of 3 years. The investigation revealed that in December of 2020, Daniel downloaded LA Wallet, which is a digital driver’s license mobile application, onto his smartphone. Daniel obtained the Louisiana license information of A.S.M., who Daniel knew to be a real person, and used that information to obtain a digital copy of A.S.M.’s driver’s license on LA Wallet. In January of 2021, posing as A.S.M, Daniel used the digital license of A.S.M. to open an account at Cenla Federal Credit Union. Then, again posing as A.S.M., Daniel applied for and obtained a $41,844.45 loan through Cenla Federal Credit Union to purchase a 2017 Chevrolet Silverado. Daniel not only lied about his identity, but he (posing as A.S.M.) also stated on the application that he was employed by Baker Hughes and had an annual income of $78,000. In addition to Cenla Federal Credit Union, Judge Drell identified nine other victims of Daniel’s fraud scheme. Judge Drell ordered Daniel to pay a total of $45,512.97 in restitution to the victims. At the time of his offense, Daniel was on probation in three different parishes in Louisiana for committing bank fraud. "This is a great example of federal law enforcement agencies partnering with our local partners to pursue justice for these victims. Although these are typically known as nonviolent crimes, the actions of this defendant are inherently dangerous to the community because they violate privacy interests and take advantage of the state's technological advances. For these reasons, we are pleased with this sentence." The case was investigated by the FBI and the Alexandria Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica D. Cassidy. # # #


title: New Iberia Man Sentenced for Attempted Possession of Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Louisiana, Western

body_text: LAFAYETTE, La. - United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Jaron Mitchell , 30, of New Iberia, Louisiana, was sentenced to 122 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, as a result of a conviction for attempted possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. United States District Judge David C. Joseph conducted the sentencing hearing. In this case, on May 10, 2022, a Customs and Border Protection Officer (CBPO) intercepted a package at UPS World Port in Louisville, Kentucky and Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) began an investigation. Investigators learned the package contained several smaller boxes that were destined for a home in New Iberia, Louisiana. Agents discovered that the boxes contained infant/baby equipment, toys, and a total of ten (10) large Ziplock bag bundles containing suspected methamphetamine, each weighing approximately one pound. The total suspected weight of the methamphetamine was slightly more than ten pounds. Agents tracked the package to a home associated with Mitchell and then to a car where it was found. Mitchell was observed picking up the package from the home where it was delivered and was the driver of the car when package was located by officers. A data extraction of Mitchell’s cellphone showed he had been tracking the package through the UPS app on his phone. Mitchell pleaded guilty to the charge on December 9, 2022. This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation, Customs and Border Protection and the Iberia Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney LaDonte A. Murphy. # # #


title: Springfield, Illinois, Woman Sentenced to Three Years of Probation for Pandemic Benefit Related Wire Fraud

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A Springfield, Illinois, woman, Amber Bolen, 43, of the 200 block of South Durkin Drive was sentenced today to three years of probation, to include three months’ home confinement, for three counts of wire fraud related to fraudulently obtaining pandemic related benefits. At Bolen’s sentencing hearing, Senior U.S. District Judge Sue E. Myerscough found that Bolen’s action deprived actual small businesses of receiving loan funds. Judge Myerscough also noted that some of those businesses had to close due to the effects of the pandemic and the depletion of funds. At the sentencing hearing, the government presented evidence that Bolen submitted false information to the Small Business Association to obtain an Economic Injury Disaster Loan. Bolen claimed that she operated a limousine and transportation business that employed 11 people, had over $90,000 in gross revenue in the prior year, and had operated since 2013. The information was false, as Bolen never operated any such business. Bolen pleaded guilty to the charges in October 2022 and has remained free on bond. The Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations Division investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sierra Senor-Moore represented the government in the prosecution. COVID-19 disaster relief benefits are intended to help people and businesses suffering as a result of the pandemic. If members of the public suspect that anyone fraudulently obtained or misused benefits, they should contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NDCF) Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or submit the NCDF Web Complaint Form. The NCDF is a national coordinating agency within the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division dedicated to improving the detection, prevention, investigation, and prosecution of criminal conduct related to natural and man-made disasters and other emergencies, such as the coronavirus (COVID-19). Hotline staff will obtain information regarding complaints, which will then be reviewed by law enforcement officials. More information is available at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud.


title: Three Bowling Green Residents Sentenced for Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy

body_text: Bowling Green, KY – This week, the third and final member of a Bowling Green federal drug trafficking conspiracy was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Maynard of the ATF Louisville Field Office, and Director Tommy Loving of the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force made the announcement. On March 7, 2023, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Bowling Green Division, Glenn Budd , 41, was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture. On February 1, 2023, Rickshard Collins , 31, was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 1,286.6 grams of methamphetamine. On January 17, 2023, Paige Russell , 22, was sentenced to time served followed by 4 years of supervised release for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture. “Illegal drug trafficking and the addiction which accompanies it often causes death, decimates lives, families, and even entire communities,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. “We will continue, in partnership with the ATF and Kentucky’s AHIDTA drug task forces, to identify, arrest, and prosecute those responsible for trading their poison in our communities.” “So many families have endured pain and suffering due to the drug epidemic here and across the country,” said ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Maynard. “ATF is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to pursue those who exploit the vulnerabilities that addiction creates and threaten the safety of our communities. I commend ATF’s Bowling Green Field Office, the Bowling Green/Warren County AHIDTA Drug Task Force and the prosecution team for their hard work in bringing these offenders to justice.” “Drugs are killing our citizens daily in the Commonwealth,” said AHIDTA Director Loving. “Complex investigations and prosecutions like this help make our community a safer place to live by removing these traffickers from the streets. The Bowling Green/Warren County Drug Task consists of state, local and federal partners working together as a team which is the key to successful investigations. Working with our local U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office brings these major drug traffickers to justice.” There is no parole in the federal system. The ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Bowling Green/Warren County AHIDTA Drug Task Force investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the United States Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office. ###


title: Six Houston gang members charged with using firearm in racketeering murder

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – A federal grand jury in Houston has returned an indictment charging five men and one woman with aiding and abetting the use of a firearm to commit murder in aid of racketeering. The six defendants are alleged members of the 100% Third Ward (103) Gang, which operates in and around the Third Ward area of Houston. This is the first indictment returned as part of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Violent Crime Initiative conducted in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Texas (SDTX) and local, state and federal law enforcement. This joint effort, first announced in September 2022, concentrates on addressing violent crime by employing, where appropriate, federal racketeering laws to prosecute gang members in the southwest and southeast areas of Houston. As part of the initiative, the Criminal Division has dedicated attorneys and other resources to prosecute violent offenders and to assist intervention, prevention and reentry efforts to address the root causes of violent crime, including through funding provided by the department’s Office of Justice Programs. “Since we announced the Violent Crime Initiative less than six months ago, our dedicated prosecutors and agents have been working tirelessly to target the ‘worst of the worst’ violent gang members that are terrorizing Houston residents,” said Assistant Attorney General Kenneth A. Polite Jr. of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “These efforts have led to today’s announcement of an indictment charging half a dozen 103 Gang members with murder as part of their war with a rival gang. But we recognize that the fight against violent crime requires more than just enforcement actions and we are continuing to engage directly with the community to build trust and allow for meaningful and sustained change.” “To gang members and others infecting our streets with this type of crime – the power of the federal government is here. We will not stop. We will find you. No matter how long it takes, we will prosecute and ensure you pay the price for your actions,” said SDTX U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. “A priority of this office, every day, is for the Third Ward’s children to feel safe in their homes and on the streets from the terror of local gangs, and we will work with all partners and use all tools to make that priority a reality.” The defendants are Shaquile O’Neal Richards, 29; Alexandra Elizabeth Nicks, 23; Deandre Watson, 24; Marcus Dewane Christopher, 26; Marquis Juwan Erskin, 29; and Mertroy Harris, 32. The defendants, all from Houston, are charged with their involvement in a murder that occurred on London Street in the Third Ward in Houston in October 2017. As alleged in the indictment, returned March 9, Richards was incarcerated in a state prison for aggravated robbery when he and Nicks ordered 103 Gang members to shoot members of a rival gang as part of an ongoing gang war. On Oct. 16, 2017, Watson, Christopher, Erskin and Harris allegedly saw someone they believed was a rival gang member. They allegedly opened fire at that individual, who was standing with another man. The suspected rival gang member was shot and injured, but the other victim, not part of any gang, was killed. After the shooting, Watson, Christopher, Erskin and Harris allegedly attempted to flee in a stolen car but drove into a ditch. The four allegedly fled that car, and Watson, Christopher and Erskin then carjacked another vehicle by forcing a woman and child from it. According to the indictment, the 103 Gang is an enterprise that engaged in criminal acts involving murder, robbery, narcotics distribution and assault. The 103 Gang allegedly recruits new members primarily from the neighborhoods within the Third Ward area. Gang members use violence, threats of violence and intimidation to protect the power, reputation and territory of the 103 Gang, according to the indictment. “These indictments highlight he Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) commitment to investigating and bringing to justice those who use firearms to terrorize our communities,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Fred Milanowski. “Our streets are safer today because of the diligent work done on this case by ATF and our local, state and federal law enforcement partners that comprise the Violent Crime Initiative.” “Gang violence impacts nearly every aspect of our communities, from the safety of our streets to the quality of life in our neighborhoods,” said Assistant Director Luis M. Quesada of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our partners and use every available tool to combat the fear and violence caused by these gangs and bring them to justice.” “The commitment to putting violent offenders in jail and getting guns off our streets is a high priority,” said Chief Troy Finner of the Houston Police Department (HPD). “I am so grateful and proud of this collaboration with our federal partners that allows us to continue to put criminals in jail and seek justice for those victimized by violent crime.” If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum penalty of life in prison or death. The ATF, FBI and HPD conducted the investigation the case with assistance from the Texas Anti-Gang Center. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Richard Hanes and Heather Winter are prosecuting the case along with Trial Attorneys Ralph Paradiso and Sheila Lafferty of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section. An indictment is a formal accusation of criminal conduct, not evidence. A defendant is presumed innocent unless convicted through due process of law.


title: Hudson County Man Admits Producing Images of Child Sexual Abuse

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – A Hudson County, New Jersey man, admitted producing images of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today. Ramon Zelaya, 36, of Union City, pleaded guilty by videoconference on March 9, 2023, before U.S. District Judge Claire C. Cecchi to a second superseding indictment charging him with two counts of sexual exploitation of a child. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Between Aug. 20, 2018 and Sept. 20, 2018, Zelaya used an alias Instagram account to message a minor victim and entice, threaten, and coerce the minor into creating and sending him sexually explicit images and videos. From April 2018 through May 2018, Zelaya used an alias Facebook account to conspire with an individual in the Dominican Republic to sexually abuse the individual’s minor child, create images of that abuse, and send the images to Zelaya. In May 2017, Zelaya used another messaging application to engage an additional underage victim in sexually explicit conversations during which Zelaya requested that the victim take sexually explicit photographs and videos of the victim and send them to him. The charge of sexual exploitation of a child carries a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison, and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for July 20, 2023. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Ricky J. Patel, and officers of the Union City Police Department, under the direction of Chief Anthony Facchini, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jamie H. Solano and Sophie E. Reiter of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Cybercrime Unit in Newark.


title: Waterloo Man Sentenced for  Possessing a Firearm as a Drug User

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A man who possessed a firearm as an illegal user of a controlled substance was sentenced today to almost five years in federal prison. Adaris Hawkins, age 23, from Waterloo, Iowa, received the prison term after an August 29, 2022 guilty plea to one count of possession of a firearm by a drug user. In a plea agreement, admitted that, on December 6, 2021, he knowingly possessed a firearm, a Glock G19 pistol, as a drug user. Specifically, police went to Hawkins’ residence in Waterloo to execute a search warrant. Police officers located Hawkins outside the residence in possession of the Glock pistol. The firearm was equipped with an extended magazine and 33 rounds of ammunition. Police obtained a sample of Hawkins’ urine which subsequently tested positive for marijuana. Inside the home, police located marijuana and drug paraphernalia belonging to Hawkins. Prior to the search, police officers located various social media posts depicting Hawkins using marijuana. In addition, between July 2021 and April 2022, Hawkins purchased at least ten firearms. On the ATF paperwork he completed when purchasing the firearms, Hawkins falsely claimed that he was purchasing the guns for himself and that he was not a drug user. Several of the guns Hawkins purchased were on behalf of other persons who could not lawfully obtain firearms. Hawkins was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Hawkins was sentenced to 57 months’ imprisonment. He must also serve a three-year term of supervised release after the prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Hawkins is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Lisa C. Williams and Daniel C. Tvedt and investigated by the Waterloo Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. 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. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 22-CR-2020. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Twelve Years in Federal Prison for California Man Who Tried to Take Five Pounds of Ice Methamphetamine on a Plane to Iowa

body_text: A man who was arrested in Los Angeles while trying to transport five pounds of methamphetamine to Iowa was sentenced today to twelve years in federal prison. Kiyonte Levell Sowell, age 22, from Los Angeles, California, received the prison term after a September 14, 2022 guilty plea to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. Evidence at prior hearings and court records reflect that in late 2021, the Cedar Rapids Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) conducted a wiretap investigation into a drug organization being primarily run by David Belton (a/k/a “Blood”). In February 2022, intercepted communications indicated that a shipment of 60 pounds of ice methamphetamine was going to be coming to Cedar Rapids, Iowa, from California. Investigators tracked a courier driving a rental truck from Los Angeles to Nebraska, where the truck was stopped. During a search of the cargo area of the truck, officers found a plastic tote containing 60 pounds of ice methamphetamine. Following the seizure of the 60 pounds of ice methamphetamine, Belton continued to purchase additional methamphetamine from his source in California. On February 27, 2022, Belton was intercepted speaking with Sowell, who is a relative of Belton’s. Belton told Sowell that he was booking Sowell a flight, instructed Sowell to “pack you a big ass suitcase, you already know you ain’t going to stay for that many days” and then said, “You already know what the rest is so we gonna, I’m gonna book you out a ticket in the morning.” The next day, Sowell went to Los Angeles International Airport, taking a large roller bag with him through airport security as carry‑on luggage. Airport security conducted an X‑ray of the roller bag and observed multiple bags of an unknown substance underneath the clothes inside the bag. During a secondary search of the bag, security found five vacuum‑sealed bags containing ice methamphetamine. Sowell admitted that the bag was his but said his brother had packed it. When asked if he was aware of the contents of the bag he shrugged and said, “It looks like cocaine or meth, I don’t know.” He then said he was going to Iowa, “but all I know is that I’m missing my flight and I’m going to jail.” Airport security eventually searched the bag, found that it contained approximately five pounds of ice methamphetamine, and arrested Sowell. Later testing determined the substance in Sowell’s bag was approximately 2,208 grams of 99% pure methamphetamine. The following ten co‑defendants charged in the same indictment had previously pled guilty or been found guilty in federal court and are pending sentencing: David Poitier Belton Derek Michael Mims Phillip Lanell Rogers Robert Lee Michael Bates Anton Tarrice Whitney, Jr. Christopher Eric Curley Calub Joseph Storlie Elmer Mims Timothy Michael Webber Jesus Vera “Methamphetamine is a highly dangerous drug that continues to threaten the safety of our communities,” said United States Attorney Timothy T. Duax. “We remain committed to working with the DEA and all of our law enforcement partners to protect the public from dangerous drug dealers and hold accountable those who bring methamphetamine into our communities.” Sowell was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams. Sowell was sentenced to 144 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. Sowell is being held in the United States Marshal’s custody until he can be transported to a federal prison. The case was investigated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) program of the United States Department of Justice through a cooperative effort of the DEA Task Force in Cedar Rapids and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The DEA Task Force in Cedar Rapids consists of the DEA; the Linn County Sheriff's Office; the Cedar Rapids Police Department; the Marion Police Department; and the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement. Also assisting in the investigation were the Transportation Security Administration and Los Angeles International Airport Police, and DEA LAX Group 3 in Los Angeles. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Chatham. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 22‑CR‑39‑CJW‑MAR. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Federal Grand Jury A Indictments Announced- March 2023

component: USAO - Oklahoma, Northern

body_text: United States Attorney Clint Johnson today announced the results of the March 2023 Federal Grand Jury A. The following individuals have been charged with violations of United States law in indictments returned by the Grand Jury. The return of an indictment is a method of informing a defendant of alleged violations of federal law, which must be proven in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt to overcome a defendant’s presumption of innocence. Estaban Abarca-Calbario . Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien . Abarca-Calbario, 43, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed on Aug. 11, 2009, at or near Dover Air Force Base, Delaware. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-99 Dravon Josiah Drayton . Theft of Firearms from a Federal Firearm Licensee; Possession of Stolen Firearms . Drayton, 20, of Peoria, is charged with stealing a Radical Firearm 5.56 caliber rifle; a Walther 9 mm semi-automatic pistol; a Walther .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol; and an IWI 9 mm caliber semi-automatic pistol from a pawn shop. He is further charged with possessing those stolen firearms. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niko A. Boulieris is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-90 Amanda Nicole Gossett; Shawn William Gossett . Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country (Count 1); Child Neglect in Indian Country (Counts 2-3); Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor Under 12 Years of Age in Indian Country (Counts 4-5); Child Neglect in Indian Country (Counts 6 and 7). Amanda Gossett, 34, of Bristow, is charged with the aggravated sexual abuse of a child younger than 12 years old. She is further charged with failing to provide for the proper care and protection of two children. William Gossett, 32, of Sand Springs, is charged with the aggravated sexual abuse of both children and with neglecting both children. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie Ihler is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-91 Isaias Salvador Huerta-Herrera . Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Huerta-Herrera, 36, a Mexican National, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed on July 29, 2019, at or near Paso Del Norte Bride, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert T. Raley is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-92 Kawliga Neal Kingfisher . Possession of Child Pornography . Kingfisher, 34, of Salina, is charged with possessing child sexual abuse material. Homeland Security Investigations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leah Paisner is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-93 Victor Antonio Portillo-Alvarado . Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Portillo-Alvarado, 27, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed on May 3, 2021, at or near Nogales, Arizona. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Cheryl L. Baber is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-94 Alexander Ian Reid . Advertising to Receive, Exchange, Produce, Display, Distribute, and Reproduce Child Pornography; Possession of Child Pornography in Indian Country. Reid, 24, of Bartlesville, allegedly sought and offered to produce, exchange, and distribute child sexual abuse material online. He is further alleged to have possessed child sexual abuse material. The FBI is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher J. Nassar is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-95 Rene Rodriguez-Hernandez . Unlawful Reentry of a Removed Alien. Rodriguez-Hernandez, 36, a Mexican national, is charged with unlawfully reentering the United States after having been removed on March 16, 2012, at or near Brownsville, Texas. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations is the investigative agency. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon A. Skates is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-96 Andrew Cordario Wagoner . Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Ammunition. Wagoner, 31, of Tulsa, is charged with being a felon in possession of a Taurus 9mm semi-automatic pistol and ammunition. The Tulsa Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are the investigative agencies. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric O. Johnston is prosecuting the case. 23-CR-99


title: Green Bay Man Sentenced to Ten Years of Imprisonment for Methamphetamine Distribution Conspiracy

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: United States Attorney Gregory J. Haanstad of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on March 10, 2023, Michael R. Chapman (age: 32) of Green Bay, Wisconsin, was sentenced for conspiring to distribute over 13 kilograms of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a), 841(b)(1)(A), and 846. According to court documents, between June and September of 2022, Chapman travelled to Southern California for the purpose of obtaining methamphetamine. Once in possession of the controlled substance, Chapman used the U.S. Postal system to mail the packages to his co-conspirators in Green Bay. The methamphetamine was then sold by Chapman upon his return to Wisconsin. At sentencing, Senior U.S. District Judge William C. Griesbach noted the serious nature of Chapman’s offense and the need to send a strong message of deterrence to Chapman and anyone else who might seek to distribute drugs in Northeast Wisconsin. The judge ordered Chapman to serve ten years in federal prison to be followed by ten years of supervised release. This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Brown County Drug Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble. # # # For Additional Information Contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov 414-297-1700 Follow us on Twitter


title: New Orleans Man Pleads Guilty to International Parental Kidnapping

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – KIDUS AWLACHEW , age 33, a resident of New Orleans, Louisiana, pleaded guilty today before United States District Judge Jay Zainey after previously being charged in a one-count bill of information with international parental kidnapping, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1204, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to court records, AWLACHEW and Person 1, an adult female, began dating in about 2018. Soon thereafter, Person 1 and her daughter, Minor Victim, moved into AWLACHEW’S residence. Between 2018 and January 2022, AWLACHEW often voluntarily acted in a parental capacity toward Minor Victim . In about December 2021, AWLACHEW told Person 1 that he wanted to take Minor Victim to Ethiopia to experience a different culture for about one month. Based on those representations, Person 1 agreed. In fact, AWLACHEW intended to keep Minor Victim in Ethiopia for more than one month. Thereafter, AWLACHEW purchased tickets for he and Minor Victim to travel to Ethiopia on January 14, 2022, and to return on February 21, 2022. AWLACHEW and Minor Victim did not return on February 21. On numerous occasions, Person 1 inquired why AWLACHEW had not returned with Minor Victim and to demand that he do so. AWLACHEW either ignored the inquiries or provided a false justification for not returning. Moreover, AWLACHEW usually did not allow Person 1 to correspond directly with Minor Victim. Law enforcement authorities recovered Minor Victim from AWLACHEW’S custody in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, and took AWLACHEW into custody, on July 20, 2022. United States law enforcement authorities arranged for Minor Victim to be returned to New Orleans and reunited with her mother. AWLACHEW was returned to the United States on August 24, 2022. AWLACHEW faces up to three years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000.00, up to one year of supervised release after imprisonment, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. Sentencing before Judge Zainey has been scheduled for June 13, 2023, at 10:30 am. "The ending in this case might have been much different without the coordination and cooperation between national and international partners," said FBI New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Douglas A. Williams, Jr. "We thank the Louisiana State Police, the State Department, our fellow agents in Addis Ababa, and the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia for bringing this case to a swift and positive conclusion." 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.” U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Department of State, and Louisiana State Police in investigating this matter. U.S. Attorney Evans also expressed appreciation for the cooperation provided by the Government of the Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution. * * *


title: Bronx Daycare Provider Charged With Sexual Exploitation Of A Child And Production, Receipt, And Distribution Of Child Pornography

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Patrick J. Freaney, Special Agent in Charge of the New York Field Office of the United States Secret Service (“USSS”), Michael J. Driscoll, Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and Keechant L. Sewell, the Commissioner of the New York City Police Department (“NYPD”), announced today that SILFREDO CASTILLO MARTINEZ was charged with sexual exploitation of a child and production of child pornography as well as receipt, distribution, and possession of child pornography. CASTILLO MARTINEZ will be presented today before United States Magistrate Judge Gabriel W. Gorenstein. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “Silfredo Castillo Martinez’s primary responsibility as a daycare provider was to watch over neighborhood children. Instead, he allegedly abused that role in order to sexually exploit one of the minors under his care. During the time when he was supposed to be protecting children, he also allegedly received, distributed, and possessed tens of thousands of images of child pornography. Castillo Martinez’s alleged conduct was unconscionable, and we will continue to work tirelessly to protect the children of our community.” USSS Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Freaney said: “The charges brought forth today allege reprehensible violation and exploitation committed by an individual who was expected to provide extraordinary trustworthiness and protection to the most vulnerable. Our expert investigators and partners assigned to the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force have successfully brought this individual before our justice system to face these allegations. I am thankful for their continued dedication and unending work in our shared investigative priority to keep our children safe from harm.” FBI Assistant Director Michael J. Driscoll said: “The crimes Castillo Martinez stands charged with today are nearly unimaginable. As alleged, while operating a licensed day care facility, he enticed an 11-year-old child to engage in sexually-explicit conduct and made recordings of the conduct. Our children are some of our society’s most vulnerable members, and protecting them from predators remains a top priority for the FBI. We encourage anyone who believes they may have information relevant to this investigation to contact us at 1-800-CALL-FBI or online at tips.fbi.gov .” NYPD Commissioner Keechant L. Sewell said: “This investigation highlights the most important function of law enforcement in our society: protecting the vulnerable against criminal predators who would seek to abuse, exploit, and harm them. Today’s charges affirm, again, that the NYPD and our partners will never abate our efforts to keep children safe – and we will relentlessly pursue anyone who targets them. To that end, I thank and commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District, the United States Secret Service, the New York Field Office of the FBI, and every investigator who worked on this important case.” According to the allegations contained in the Complaint: [1] From in or about July 2015 through in or about at least May 3, 2022, CASTILLO MARTINEZ operated a licensed daycare facility for children at his residence in the Bronx, New York (the “Daycare Facility”). From at least in or about May 2018 through at least in or about July 2018, CASTILLO MARTINEZ induced an 11-year-old minor (“Minor Victim-1”) who attended the Daycare Facility to engage in sexually explicit conduct at the Daycare Facility, and CASTILLO MARTINEZ recorded that conduct on his cellphone and camera. On or about May 3, 2022, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at CASTILLO MARTINEZ’s residence and seized several electronic devices belonging to CASTILLO MARTINEZ. Those devices contained, among other things, several images and a video containing child pornography depicting Minor Victim-1 and approximately 9,800 other images depicting child pornography. * * * CASTILLO MARTINEZ, 32, of the Bronx, New York, is charged with one count of sexual exploitation of a child, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison; one count of receipt and distribution of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison; and one count of possession of child pornography, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The minimum and maximum potential penalties are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge. Any individuals who believe they have information that may be relevant to this investigation should contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or https://tips.fbi.gov . Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the USSS’s Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the FBI, and the NYPD. Mr. Williams also thanked the Bronx County District Attorney’s Office for its assistance. This case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jackie Delligatti is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint constitutes only allegations, and every fact described herein should be treated as an allegation.


title: Former Finance Director Of Non-Profit Trade Association Charged With Embezzlement Scheme

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and Michael J. Driscoll, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today charges against DONNA MURRAY, a former director of finance for a non-profit financial services trade association headquartered in Manhattan, for a months-long embezzlement scheme through which she stole approximately $490,000 from her employer. MURRAY is expected to be presented later today in the Southern District of Florida. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Donna Murray betrayed her employer’s trust by using her employer’s bank account — to which she had access as its finance director — as her personal ATM, stealing nearly half a million dollars and spending the stolen money on frivolous items, even including a cat treadmill. Today’s charges send a message to would-be embezzlers: if you abuse your position of trust for personal gain, we will hold you accountable.” FBI Assistant Director Michael J. Driscoll said: “As we allege today, Ms. Murray misappropriated approximately $490,000 from her employer over several years and used the funds for a variety of personal uses. Violating her employer’s trust in the manner in which she did is a federal crime, and, as a consequence, she will now be forced to face the consequences of her actions.” According to the allegations contained in the Complaint: [1] From in or about December 2017 through in or about August 2022, MURRAY was employed as the Director of Finance for a non-profit financial services trade association located in Manhattan. The organization, which has more than 600 institutional members, works to promote industry thought leadership, participate in industry advocacy work, educate members and stakeholders, and establish industry standards and best practices. As the Director of Finance, MURRAY had access to the organization’s bank accounts. From at least October 2019 through at least in or about March 2021, MURRAY misappropriated approximately $490,000 from one of the organization’s bank accounts through more than 100 unauthorized wire transactions from the organization’s bank account to her personal bank account. To conceal the embezzlement from her employer, MURRAY fabricated recipients and invoice numbers purporting to be associated with the wire transactions in her employer’s general ledger, even though MURRAY was the true recipient of those wire transfers. After siphoning hundreds of thousands of dollars from her employer’s bank account to her own, MURRAY withdrew from her bank account over $400,000 in cash on more than 300 occasions and used the remainder of the stolen funds for peer-to-peer online money transfers, loan payments, and consumer and luxury items, including Yves Saint Laurent and Michael Kors designer apparel; beauty, wellness, and skincare products and services; home furnishings and décor; hundreds of Amazon orders; smoke shop purchases; and a treadmill for cats. * * * MURRAY, 38, of Staten Island, New York, is charged with one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. The maximum potential sentence in this case is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI. The prosecution of this case is being handled by the Office’s General Crimes Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jerry J. Fang is in charge of the prosecution. The charge contained in the Complaint is merely an accusation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint and the description of the Complaint set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.


title: Defendants Convicted And Sentenced In Long-Term Methamphetamine And Oxycodone Drug Trafficking Investigation In Bay County

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – A federal judge sentenced the seventh defendant in a large-scale methamphetamine and oxycodone trafficking organization operating primarily in Bay County. The convictions and sentences were announced by Jason R. Coody United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. “Our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners work tirelessly to keep us safe by removing addictive and deadly controlled substances from our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “We remain committed to support their efforts through the investigation and prosecution of criminals who would bringing drugs into North Florida. The imposed sentences illustrate the significant consequences of harming our citizens through their illicit drug trafficking activities.” The defendants and their sentences were: Darrell Britt, 33, of Panama City, Florida, 300 months in prison Marcel Michaud, 57, of Southport, Florida, 144 months in prison Kenneth Sizemore, 57, of Youngstown, Florida, 120 months in prison Johnny Wayne Carr, 58, of Panama City, Florida, 212 months in prison James Wilson, 60, of Panama City, Florida, 140 months in prison David Barron, 60, of Panama City, Florida, 108 months in prison Mary Ann Brown, 52, of Youngstown, Florida, 108 months in prison All will be on supervised release once they are released from custody. “We recognize the power in effective partnerships,” said Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford. “Our work with DEA and the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Florida is resulting in convictions and removing illegal narcotics from our streets. This is a win for the people of Bay County.” In August 2019, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Panama City Resident Office Task Force initiated an investigation targeting the distribution of multiple kilograms of methamphetamine and multi-thousands of prescription narcotics pills by Kenneth Sizemore, Marcel Michaud, Darrell Britt, Johnny Carr, James Wilson, David Barron, and Mary Brown and others in Bay County and surrounding areas of north Florida. Over the course of the two-year investigation, DEA, working with state and local partners, compiled evidence to secure indictments on seven Federal defendants and approximately 16 state of Florida defendants. The investigation led to the seizure of several kilograms of methamphetamine, firearms, U.S. currency, vehicles, construction machinery, and real estate purchased from the sale of narcotics. “At a time when our country is experiencing a crippling drug overdose and poisoning epidemic, we need to be doing everything we can to keep our communities safe and healthy. Those who choose to bring this poison into our communities will be held accountable for their actions,” said DEA Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “DEA remains committed to working with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to keep these highly addictive and destructive drugs out of our North Florida communities.” This case resulted from a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Panama City Police Department, Panama City Beach Police Department, Lynn Haven Police Department, Springfield Police Department, Chipley Police Department, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Department of Law Enforcement, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bay County State’s Attorney Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Walter Narramore and Amanda Gordon prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Justice Department Announces Allison Turkel as Special Master of the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund

component: Office of the Attorney General

body_text: Attorney General Merrick B. Garland today announced that he has chosen Allison Turkel to head the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund (VCF). Turkel, who has served in the Justice Department for over 14 years, most recently in the Office for Victims of Crime, will assume her new position effective March 12, 2023. She will be taking over from August Flentje, who on April 29, 2022, was appointed as Special Master on an interim basis following the departure of former Special Master Rupa Bhattacharyya. “In administering the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund, the Justice Department is committed to honoring the victims and survivors of the 9/11 terror attacks, including those who bravely responded that day and in the years after, putting themselves at great risk,” said Attorney General Garland. “I am grateful for August’s service as interim VCF Special Master and I am confident that Allison’s leadership, vision, and commitment to serving victims will enable VCF to continue its essential mission.” “As a native New Yorker, a former Philadelphia area police officer and lieutenant, and a prosecutor in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office, it is an honor and privilege to be selected by the Attorney General for this important service,” Turkel said. “I recognize I am stepping into the position to carry on the legacy of those who held the role before me, while also focusing on the future of a program that must continue to meet the needs of claimants for decades to come. I look forward to working alongside the dedicated VCF staff to ensure that 9/11 claimants promptly receive the payments to which they are entitled. I also want to thank August for serving as interim Special Master over the past 10 months, leading the team and ensuring there was no slowdown in claims processing.” The VCF has made tremendous progress since it re-opened in October 2011. As of Feb. 28, 2023, over $11.1 billion in compensation has been awarded to more than 50,000 responders and survivors who have been harmed because of their exposure to 9/11 toxins. Under Flentje’s leadership over the past 10 months, the VCF issued over 7,400 awards totaling over $1 billion dollars. Flentje continued to build upon the progress made during Bhattacharyya’s tenure, including reviewing and rendering decisions on nearly 800 appeals, meeting his goal to reduce to six months or less the waiting period for a decision after an appeal hearing is held. Flentje also saw that the VCF Transformation effort – initiated following the VCF’s Permanent Authorization in July 2019 – continued to move forward to ensure the program remains operational for decades to come. Flentje is a career civil service attorney with the Department’s Civil Division and will support the VCF and Special Master Turkel as she steps into her new role. The Department does not expect any interruption in VCF claim review or in the issuance of awards during this transition. Turkel’s career in public service has spanned decades, including her recent work with the Justice Department's Office for Victims of Crime (OVC). Prior to this role, Turkel oversaw all grant functions for the Office of Sex Offender Sentencing, Monitoring, Apprehending, Registering, and Tracking. Her prior work also included oversight of the team working with American Indian Tribes to implement the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, for which she and her team received the Assistant Attorney General Award for Exceptional Service. Turkel previously served as the Deputy Director of the Federal, International, and Tribal Division at OVC. She oversaw the Antiterrorism Emergency Assistance Program, including the International Terrorism Victim Expense Reimbursement Program, National Mass Violence Victimization Center, and OVC’s Mass Violence victim support program. As Deputy Director, she also provided guidance and resources for federal partners’ victim services programs. In addition, she led the Tribal victims’ services program, including the creation of innovative and efficient processes to help the Department effectuate a massive increase in funding for the first ever Tribal Victim Services Set Aside Program, and the creation of the Tribal Financial Management Center. Before her federal service, Turkel was the Director of the National District Attorneys Association’s (NDAA) National Center for Prosecution of Child Abuse (NCPCA), where she managed program activities and staff; and trained and provided technical assistance nationwide on child abuse, maltreatment, sexual exploitation, computer facilitated crimes against children, and domestic violence. Prior to her position at NDAA, Allison was a prosecutor for over 11 years, serving in New York and Illinois. She was an Assistant District Attorney in the New York County District Attorney’s Office for more than nine years, where she tried a wide variety of felony cases. Turkel was born and raised in New York City, and although she has lived in the Washington D.C. area for the past 20 years, considers herself a lifetime New Yorker. Before beginning her legal career, she served as a police officer and lieutenant for eight years in the Philadelphia area. She received her B.A. from the University of Pennsylvania and her J.D. from Temple University School of Law. “This is a program that has always operated with transparency and compassion, and this will not change as we continue to work to provide full compensation to those who have suffered as a result of the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001,” said Turkel. For additional information on the Victim Compensation Fund, please visit: www.vcf.gov .


title: Silver Spring Man Sentenced to Seven Years in Federal Prison for Gun And Drug Conspiracy Charges

component: USAO - Maryland

body_text: Greenbelt , Maryland – U.S. District Judge Deborah L. Boardman sentenced Darryl Colton Frazer, age 34, of Silver Spring, Maryland, yesterday to seven years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release for gun and drug conspiracy charges and for violation of supervised release. Frazer was convicted of those charges on November 3, 2022, after a three-day trial. The sentence was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Erek L. Barron; Special Agent in Charge Toni M. Crosby of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division; and Chief Marcus Jones of the Montgomery County Police Department (MCPD). According to the evidence presented at trial, on July 25, 2019, MCPD officers approached Frazer and co-defendant Shamire Moore after noting that Moore appeared to match the description of an individual involved a recent shooting. When Frazer and Moore saw the officers, they ran into a nearby residential area. Officers followed them and found Frazer in a nearby apartment building’s open stairwell attempting to enter an apartment. Witnesses testified that Frazer was ordered to stop and to drop a black bag that he was carrying. Instead, Frazer threw the black bag from the stairwell into an adjacent courtyard. The black bag was immediately recovered by police, and Frazer was arrested. The black bag contained: a loaded 9mm semi-automatic pistol; 103 grams of marijuana packaged into four separate plastic bags; a digital scale, and latex gloves. At the time of his arrest, Frazer was on supervised release for a previous federal conviction for unlawful weapons possession and had only finished his sentence for that offense the month before. Frazer knew that as a result of his previous conviction, he was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Shamire Moore pleaded guilty just before trial. According to Moore’s plea agreement, officers found Moore lying on the ground in a nearby wooded area. They ordered Moore to stand up and surrender, but instead, Moore scaled a fence and jumped onto an adjacent government property. Moore was eventually caught and arrested after a struggle. The black bag that Moore was carrying contained a loaded .38 caliber revolver, 106 grams of marijuana packaged into four separate plastic bags inside a larger Ziploc bag, and a digital scale, among other items. During a search of Moore’s clothing and effects, law enforcement also recovered $579 in cash, which represented proceeds of Moore’s drug trafficking offense. Moore admitted that he possessed the marijuana with intent to distribute it and that the firearm was in furtherance of drug trafficking since it was intended, at least in part, to defend his drug inventory and drug proceeds. Shamire Moore, age 31, of Bowie, Maryland, was sentenced on March 7, 2023, to five years in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute marijuana and to possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. 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. United States Attorney Erek L. Barron commended the ATF and the Montgomery County Police Department for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Adam K. Ake, Joel Crespo and Patrick D. Kibbe, who prosecuted the case. For more information on the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-neighborhoods-psn and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: West Tennessee Man Sentenced to 35 Years for Trafficking Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Tennessee, Western

body_text: Jackson, TN – Preston Antwan McNeal, 36, of Jackson, Tennessee, was found guilty on four counts of a seven-count indictment and sentenced to 35 years for trafficking methamphetamine. United States Attorney Kevin G. Ritz announced the sentence today. According to U.S. Attorney Ritz and information presented in court, from 2016 to 2019, McNeal formed, and was the leader, of a large methamphetamine trafficking operation in West Tennessee. In 2017, as the Lexington Police Department conducted a traffic stop on McNeal’s vehicle, he threw a bag containing 44 grams of methamphetamine, 16 grams of cocaine, and one gram of crack cocaine into a nearby yard. A total of $1,281 in cash, a drug ledger, and a digital scale were found in the car. In 2019, the Chester County Sheriff’s Department arrested McNeal at a traffic stop. The deputy searched the vehicle and found a baggie under the driver’s seat containing 14.3 grams of methamphetamine, plus $3,000 in cash in the front passenger floorboard. A total of 57.34 grams of methamphetamine was recovered. The passenger of the car testified at trial that McNeal gave her four baggies of methamphetamine to hide on her person. One of McNeal’s co-conspirators also testified that from late 2017 until February 2019, McNeal provided the witness with over 5 kilograms of methamphetamine for redistribution. United States District Judge S. Thomas Anderson sentenced McNeal to 420 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the Lexington Police Department, the Henderson County Sheriff’s Department, and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). United States Attorney Kevin Ritz thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Davis and Josh Morrow, who prosecuted this case for the government, as well as the law enforcement partners who investigated the case. ### For more information, please contact Public Information Officer Cherri Green at (901) 544-4231 or cherri.green@usdoj.gov. Follow @WDTNNews on Twitter for office news and updates


title: Montgomery Man Sentenced to 23 Years in Federal Prison for Carjacking and Federal Gun Crimes

component: USAO - Alabama, Middle

body_text: Montgomery, Alabama – Today, United States Attorney Sandra J. Stewart announced that William Kennedy Allen, II, 37, from Montgomery, Alabama, received a 23-year prison sentence for carjacking and federal gun crimes. The judge also ordered that Allen serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. According to Allen’s plea agreement and other court records, on August 9, 2021, an Alabama State Trooper attempted to stop a motorcycle traveling through Chilton County on Interstate 65 with no tag. The motorcycle driver, later found to be Allen, refused to stop and accelerated to speeds in excess of 140 miles per hour. The trooper followed and the pursuit continued as Allen exited the interstate and drove into a Clanton mobile home park. There, Allen abandoned the motorcycle and fled on foot. By this time, other law enforcement officers were assisting in the pursuit. One officer caught up with Allen and took him to the ground. Once on the ground, Allen discharged a shot from a pistol he was holding in his hand. Luckily, the bullet did not strike anyone. Roughly one month later, on September 10, 2021, agents with the United States Marshals Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force were looking for Allen to arrest him pursuant to a state warrant. Agents observed Allen driving in east Montgomery and attempted to block Allen’s car with their vehicles. Allen rammed the law enforcement vehicles and struck at least two other cars before leaving his vehicle behind and running through an assisted living facility located off Taylor Road. Allen then stepped into the middle of Taylor Road and forced a man out of his truck by pointing a gun at him. Once the man was out, Allen sped away in the victim’s vehicle. Next, Allen drove to Tuskegee and stopped at a gas station. There, he approached a man who was getting into his car. Allen grabbed the car door handle and put a gun in the man’s midsection, then Allen drove away in the vehicle. Law enforcement officers responding to the Tuskegee carjacking pursued Allen on Interstate 85. Eventually, Allen crashed the second stolen car and officers then took him into custody. On September 1, 2022, Allen pleaded guilty to carjacking, using a firearm during a crime of violence, and being a felon in possession of a firearm. On March 8, 2023, the judge imposed the 23-year sentence. “The disregard for the safety of others in this case is disturbing,” stated United States Attorney Stewart. “During just a few weeks, Allen endangered the lives of so many individuals. I am grateful for the combined effort of the local, state, and federal law enforcement officials involved. Together, they apprehended a dangerous person and made multiple communities safer as a result.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency, the Chilton County Sheriff’s Office, the Clanton Police Department, the Macon County Sheriff’s Office, the Montgomery County Sheriff’s Office, the Montgomery Police Department, and the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Justin L. Jones prosecuted this case.


title: Previously Convicted Felon Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking over Three Pounds of Methamphetamine

component: USAO - Arkansas, Western

body_text: FAYETTEVILLE – A Pea Ridge man was sentenced yesterday to 150 months in prison without the possibility of parole followed by five additional years of supervised release on one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine. The Honorable Judge Timothy L. Brooks presided over the sentencing hearing in the United States District Court in Fayetteville. According to court documents, on May 29, 2022, investigators with the Benton County Drug Unit, assisted by officers from Arkansas Probation and Parole, conducted a home compliance check with Dustin Vann , age, 33, who was on parole based on a previous felony conviction. Upon entry of his Pea Ridge residence, the investigators located Vann in his bedroom along with a backpack that contained 8 baggies of methamphetamine. The gross weight of the methamphetamine was approximately 3.6 pounds. The backpack also contained a drug ledger, clear plastic baggies, digital scales, and $764 in U.S. currency. Vann was subsequently charged in federal court via Grand Jury and pleaded guilty to possessing and intending to distribute the approximate 3 pounds of methamphetamine. U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement. The Benton County Drug Unit and Arkansas State Probation and Parole investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tyler Williams prosecuted the case. This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.


title: Rockland County Jail Inmates Charged With Production Of Child Pornography While Awaiting Trial On Murder And Other Charges

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Michael J. Driscoll, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and Louis Falco III, the Rockland County Sheriff, announced that DARIN PETERSON and ANTHONY MITCHELL were charged today with production of child pornography. According to the Complaints, PETERSON and MITCHELL enticed a child (the “Victim”) — while the Victim was 14 and 15-years-old and while the defendants were incarcerated, awaiting trial for murder and other serious charges — to send them digital content of herself engaged in sexually explicit activity. The defendants were transferred into federal custody today and presented on the charges in White Plains Federal Court. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “The harm that child sex abuse can inflict on the most innocent of victims is something no child should bear. That these defendants committed these crimes while awaiting trial for murder and other serious charges makes their conduct especially contemptible, and this Office and our FBI partners will continue to exhaustively detect, identify, and charge any individuals engaged in this sinister conduct.” FBI Assistant Director Michael J. Driscoll said: “Petersen and Mitchell, while incarcerated awaiting trial for murder and additional violent crimes, allegedly preyed on a child, inducing them to send sexually explicit content to the defendants. The FBI and our partners in law enforcement will remain tireless in our efforts to protect children from violent predators.” Rockland County Sheriff Louis Falco III said: “The Rockland County Sheriff’s Office and the Rockland County Intelligence Center were proud to assist the FBI Safe Streets Task Force in this investigation. Sexual predators who exploit children, who are among the most vulnerable members of society, will be investigated and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.” As alleged in the Complaints: [1] From on or about August 12, 2022, up to and including on or about September 25, 2022, in the case of MITCHELL, and from on or about December 7, 2022, up to and including on or about January 29, 2023, in the case of PETERSON, the defendants contacted the Victim and demanded that she take and send to them sexually explicit digital media depicting herself. The defendants committed these crimes while PETERSON awaited trial for murder, assault, and criminal possession of a weapon, and while MITCHELL awaited trial for murder, attempted murder, and criminal possession of a weapon. * * * MITCHELL, 23, of Haverstraw, New York, and PETERSON, 29, of West Haverstraw, New York, are charged with one count of production of child pornography, which carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum potential sentence of 30 years in prison. The minimum and maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendants will be determined by a judge. Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the FBI and the Rockland County Sheriff’s Office and thanked the Rockland County District Attorney’s Office for its assistance in this case. The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s White Plains Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ben Arad is in charge of the prosecution. The charges contained in the Complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. [1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the text of the Complaint, and the description of the Complaint set forth herein, constitutes only allegations, and every fact described therein should be treated as an allegation.


title: Knoxville Dentist Sentenced To Prison For Conspiring To Commit Health Care Fraud

component: USAO - Tennessee, Eastern

body_text: KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – On March 10, 2023, Clarence (“Buzz”) Nabers, 56 years old, was sentenced to six months in prison followed by six months of home detention by the Honorable Katherine A. Crytzer, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Tennessee at Knoxville. Judge Crytzer also ordered Dr. Nabers to serve one year on supervised release, pay restitution in the amount of $249,600.02, and pay a fine of $22,128. Dr. Nabers, a Tennessee licensed dentist, pleaded guilty to conspiring to commit health care fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 371 and 1347. As set forth in the written plea agreement filed with the court, during the time of the conspiracy, which began on an unknown date and lasted until at least November 1, 2018, Dr. Nabers conspired to submit more than 6,700 fraudulent claims to three health care benefit programs, resulting in a loss amount to those programs of $249,600.02. Those fraudulent claims, which were submitted using Dr. Nabers’s National Provider Identifier number, falsely represented that Dr. Nabers had either personally performed or supervised various dental procedures in his office, including but not limited to Oral Evaluations, Oral Evaluations for Patients under 3 Years of Age, and Comprehensive Periodontal Evaluations. These procedures are required to be performed or supervised by a dentist, and not by a dental hygienist or dental assistant. Dr. Nabers admitted that he had not, in fact, personally performed or supervised the performance of those procedures because he was not physically present at the office when they were performed. Instead, the procedures were performed by dental hygienists or dental assistants when the defendant was not physically present in the office. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Former Assistant United States Attorney T.J. Harker, and current Assistant United States Attorney William A. Roach, Jr., prosecuted the case. ###


title: District Man Sentenced for Killing Man Near Mount Vernon Square Metro Station

component: USAO - District of Columbia

body_text: WASHINGTON – William Whitaker 21, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 18 years in prison for the slaying of a man in January 2020, near a Metro station in downtown Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and Chief Robert J. Contee III, of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). Whitaker pleaded guilty on October 14, 2022, in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia before the Honorable Milton C. Lee. According to the government’s evidence, Whitaker used a woman’s Instagram account to message the victim, Malick Cisse, to organize a meeting near the Mount Vernon Square Metro station. Mr. Cisse, 19, arrived at the Metro station, in the 1300 block of Seventh Street NW, at approximately 11:30 p.m. on Jan. 8, 2020, thinking he was going to meet the woman. Whitaker and other unknown individuals pulled up in a white vehicle and shot and killed Mr. Cisse. Whitaker was a part of the Simple City “Avenue Crew,” and the shooting is believed to be related to crew rivalry. Whitaker was arrested on May 7, 2020 and has been detained ever since. In announcing the sentence, U.S. Attorney Graves and Chief Contee commended the work of those who investigated the case from the FBI’s Washington Field Office and the Metropolitan Police Department. In particular, they acknowledged the work of FBI Agent Eric Montgomery from CR-3, FBI Analyst Allyson Tilman from CR-6 and Detectives Michael Fulton and Krystal Boyd from the Metropolitan Police Department Homicide Division. They also acknowledged the efforts of those who worked on the case from the U.S. Attorney’s Office, including Victim/Witness Advocate Christina Bloodworth, Paralegal Specialist Meridith McGarrity, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gauri Gopal, Julia Cosans, Gregory Kimak, and Sarah Santiago, and Sharon Donovan, Deputy Chief of the Office’s Homicide Section.