title: Cottage Grove Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Threatening Coworkers on Facebook

body_text: MEDFORD, Ore.—A Cottage Grove, Oregon woman was sentenced to federal prison today for threatening violence against her coworkers on Facebook. Elizabeth Ballestros West, 56, was sentenced to six months and three weeks in federal prison and three years’ supervised release. According to court documents, in late September 2023, the FBI received an anonymous tip that West was threatening coworkers on Facebook. Later, in November 2023, the FBI learned West had established an account on X (formerly known as Twitter) that she used to post and repost memes, videos and statements containing violent messages targeting particular ethnic groups. Several of West’s posts included what appeared to be self-produced photos of firearms including several handguns, a shotgun, and an AR-style assault rifle. On January 3, 2024, West admitted to posting and reposting messages on X that contained hateful and violent rhetoric. West also admitted to possessing multiple shotguns and AR-15 assault rifles at her Cottage Grove residence. One week later, on January 9, 2024, the FBI executed federal search warrants on West’s person, vehicle, and residence. They located and seized 12 handguns, 16 rifles, thousands of rounds of ammunition and firearm accessories, and a journal that appeared to contain writings and drawings that included additional hateful and violent statements. On January 12, 2024, West was charged by criminal complaint with transmitting a threat in interstate commerce and arrested by the FBI the same day at her workplace in Eugene. Approximately one week later, on January 18, 2024, a federal grand jury in Eugene indicted West on the same charge. On May 29, 2024, West pleaded guilty. This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Cottage Grove Police Department, Eugene Police Department, and Lane County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Adam E. Delph, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.


title: St. Paul Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of a Tobacco Store

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – A St. Paul man has pleaded guilty to the armed robbery of a St. Paul tobacco store, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, on February 3, 2024, Derrick Lamont Powell, 33, walked into a tobacco store in St. Paul, pointed a handgun at the clerk, and said, “this is a stickup.” Powell pointed a semi-automatic handgun at the clerk, counted to five, and demanded cash and cigarettes from the clerk. Powell then fled the store with $810 in cash and several packs of cigarettes. Powell pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court before Judge Ann D. Montgomery to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the St. Paul Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney David M. Classen is prosecuting the case.


title: Copper Wire Thief Sentenced to 18 Months Federal Prison for Stealing from U.S. Department of the Navy

component: USAO - Guam & Northern Mariana Islands

body_text: Hagatña, Guam – SHAWN N. ANDERSON, United States Attorney for the Districts of Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands, announced that defendant Albert Benavente Taimanglo, age 69, from Dededo, Guam was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment. He was charged in the U.S. District Court of Guam with Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Government Property, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 371 and 641. The Court also ordered three years of supervised release, restitution of $44,567.90, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. In January of 2019, Taimanglo and others broke into a utility station at the United States Naval Communication Station known as Radio Barrigada. Taimanglo and his co-conspirators cut and removed copper cable. They later sold it as scrap to metal recycling facilities. The wire carried a live current, which electrocuted one of the co-conspirators. It also caused an emergency power outage and hampered important military communications capabilities. “This case demonstrates the danger of stealing copper cable that is connected to a live grid,” stated United States Attorney Anderson. “The damage was beyond a simple repair, and potentially affected national security. The sentence imposed by the Court sends a strong message of deterrence. Recycling facilities are encouraged to report suspected copper theft to law enforcement at the earliest opportunity.” This investigation was conducted by Naval Criminal Investigative Service and prosecuted by Benjamin K. Petersburg, Assistant United States Attorney in the District of Guam.


title: Davenport Man Sentenced to 137 Months in Federal Prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm

component: USAO - Iowa, Southern

body_text: DAVENPORT, Iowa – A Davenport man was sentenced on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 to 137 months in federal prison, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Sylvester George Taylor Staples, 31, was found in possession of a firearm and 9.24 grams of cocaine base. Staples had multiple prior felony convictions, including a prior federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm. At sentencing, the Court also found Staples violated the terms of his federal supervised release and ordered to serve an additional 24 months of imprisonment. After completing his term of imprisonment, Staples will be required to serve 3 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.


title: United States Attorney’s Office Reaches Settlement to Reform Wayne County Jail

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Michigan has reached a landmark settlement agreement with Wayne County concerning inmates who have disabilities. After receiving numerous complaints, the U.S. Attorney’s Office opened an investigation of the Wayne County Jail under Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (“ADA”), 42 U.S.C. Sec. 12132. The complaints alleged that Wayne County routinely failed to provide crucial services to inmates who have disabilities, including access to appropriate prescription medication, mental health services, and medical equipment. Additionally, some complaints alleged a failure to conduct medical and mental health assessments. The U. S. Attorney’s Office also learned that eight inmates committed suicide over a thirteen-month period during 2016 and 2017. The investigation substantiated several of the complaints and yielded additional concerns regarding the services, programs, and activities provided in the Wayne County Jail. “Wayne County has a long and troubled history of providing inadequate services to inmates who have disabilities,” said U.S. Attorney Dawn N. Ison. “We recognize that Wayne County is transitioning inmates into a new facility. However, a new building does not ensure access to those vital services. This agreement addresses systemic issues that have prevented inmates who have disabilities from equal access to services, programs, and activities while at the Wayne County Jail. Wayne County has fully cooperated with our investigation and this settlement agreement demonstrates our shared commitment to improving services for inmates with disabilities at the Wayne County Jail.” The settlement agreement requires Wayne County to implement a series of reforms at the Wayne County Jail, including the following: Procedures to identify inmates who have disabilities when they arrive to the jail and programs that will allow each inmate access to services no matter where they are assigned within the facility; Access to physical health, mental health, and dental services for all inmates who have disabilities, including programs like detoxication and treatment for opioid use disorder; Programs to ensure the appropriate administration of medication to inmates who have disabilities; and Robust revisions to the suicide prevention program. To ensure compliance with the agreement, Wayne County will provide compliance reports to the U.S. Attorney’s Office and will also retain at least one expert consultant to help implement the terms of this agreement. The agreement will remain in effect for a term of three years, unless Wayne County demonstrates durable compliance. The investigation was led by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shannon Ackenhausen and Michael El-Zein of the Civil Rights Unit, and Executive Assistant United States Attorney Luttrell Levingston. The full and fair enforcement of the ADA is a priority of the U.S. Attorney’s Office. The Civil Rights Unit was established in 2010, with the mission of prioritizing federal civil rights enforcement. For more information on the Office’s civil rights efforts, including a copy of the agreement, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-edmi/programs/civil-rights . Individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination or experienced a civil rights violation can submit a complaint with the U.S. Attorney’s Office by email at usamie.civilrights@usdoj.gov or by phone at (313) 226-9151. Complaints can also be submitted to the Civil Rights Division through its complaint portal.


title: Former Bank Loan Officer Pleads Guilty to Defrauding Federal Credit Union

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Boston woman pleaded guilty on July 12, 2024 to conspiring to defraud the federal credit union where she worked as a loan officer by obtaining loans in the names of inmates at a Massachusetts prison where a co-conspirator was incarcerated. Nadaje Hendrix, 26, of Brighton, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud. U.S. District Judge Julia E. Kobick scheduled sentencing for Oct. 4, 2024. In January 2024 , Hendrix was indicted by a federal grand jury along with alleged co-conspirator Glenroy Miller Between December 2019 and August 2021, Hendrix and, allegedly, Miller agreed to defraud the credit union where Hendrix worked as a loan officer and assistant branch manager, by obtaining loans in the names of other individuals, including inmates at a Massachusetts prison where Miller was incarcerated. While in prison, Miller allegedly gave Hendrix information about fellow inmates for Hendrix to use in creating fraudulent loan applications, and then arranged to have additional co-conspirators go into the credit union to pretend to be the inmates, sign loan forms and obtain loans from the credit union through Hendrix. The scheme also involved obtaining loans in the names of individuals whose identities were stolen. In total, Hendrix and, allegedly, Miller stole about $134,000 from the credit union in about two months in 2021. The charge of conspiracy to commit bank fraud provides for a sentence of up to 30 years in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of $1 million. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kriss Basil of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging document are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Chester Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of a Firearm

component: USAO - South Carolina

body_text: COLUMBIA, S.C. — Montell De’Angelo Cousar, 33, of Chester, was sentenced to 33 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Evidence presented to the Court showed that on May 5, 2023, the Rock Hill Police Department officers responded to reports of a fight at a local restaurant. As officers were clearing the restaurant parking lot, Cousar dropped a loaded 9mm pistol from his clothing as he walked past an RHPD officer. The pistol was reported stolen. Cousar was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition based on his prior convictions. In 2017, Cousar was convicted of assault and battery, first degree. In that case, Cousar shot the victim twice. In 2016, he was convicted for multiple counts of distributing crack cocaine. United States District Judge Sherri A. Lydon sentenced Cousar to 33 months in prison, to be followed by a three-year term of court-ordered supervision. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Rock Hill Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher D. Taylor is prosecuting the case. ###


title: North Smithfield Resident Indicted and Arraigned on Charge of International Parental Kidnapping

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: PROVIDENCE, RI – A North Smithfield woman who allegedly abruptly and without permission removed her five minor children from the United States has been released on unsecured bond and GPS monitoring following her arraignment in federal court on Friday, charged by way of indictment with international parental kidnapping, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. It is alleged in court documents that in December 2021, Jessica Abreu, 33, abruptly and without permission, moved her five children, all under the age of 16, to Alabama, and within months moved them to Tanzania without the knowledge of the children’s father. In May of 2022, several months after a Rhode Island Family Court judge presided over a nominal divorce hearing for Abreu and the children’s father, one of the children texted her father and stated that she will miss him. The father later learned that Abreu had moved with the children to Tanzania without his knowledge. According to court documents, the father had scheduled a June 3, 2022, visitation with the children. Abreu and the children did not appear for the visit. A Rhode Island state court judge scheduled a July 19, 2022, hearing on the matter, for which Jessica Abreu failed to appear. In August 2022, a Rhode Island Family Court magistrate judge signed an order awarding joint legal custody to Abreu and her ex-husband, and determined the State of Rhode Island as the “Home State” of the children. Five days later, the family court found Jessica Abreu in violation of the court order; that she was in violation of applicable federal kidnapping statutes by taking the children to Tanzania and not returning to the United States; and she was ordered to return to the United States with all of the children. The children’s father was awarded sole legal custody and physical placement of the children. On June 1, 2024, Abreu and her children boarded a flight landing in Los Angeles International Airport. Agents from the FBI and the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth, and Families met the plane in Los Angeles. Abreu was taken into custody by the FBI and the children were reunited with their father. A federal indictment is merely accusations. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christine Lowell and John P. McAdams. ###


title: Member of Delaware Limited Liability Company Indicted for Bankruptcy Fraud

body_text: Wilmington, Del. – Deborah Evans Mott, a 69-year-old Virginia woman, has been indicted for making material false statements under oath and under penalty of perjury during a bankruptcy proceeding, announced David C. Weiss, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware. According to the indictment, in January 2022, Team Systems International, LLC (“TSI”) filed a voluntary petition for relief under Chapter 11 of the Bankruptcy Code in U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Delaware (No. 22-10066-CTG). During the relevant time period, Mott was a member of TSI, had sole signatory authority over all of its bank accounts, and acted as its bookkeeper. The indictment alleges that Mott declared under penalty of perjury that TSI’s bankruptcy filings were true and correct despite knowing that the filings failed to disclose, among other things, several million dollars in transfers to Mott and other TSI insiders. The indictment also alleges that Mott was deposed under oath during the bankruptcy and falsely testified regarding various financial transfers from TSI. Mott is charged with one count of making false statements under penalty of perjury during a bankruptcy proceeding and one count of making false statements under oath during a bankruptcy proceeding. If convicted, she faces a maximum period of five years in prison for each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The investigation was conducted by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia L. Pare and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Hannah J. McCollum are assigned to prosecute this case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information is located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER. An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent until and unless proven guilty in court. Mott Indictment


title: Felon Who Pistol-Whipped Victim Pleads Guilty  to Federal Gun Charge

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A felon who possessed a firearm pled guilty today in federal court in Cedar Rapids. Diago Davis, age 50, from Chicago, Illinois was convicted of one count of possession of a firearm as a felon. In a plea agreement, Davis admitted that on February 3, 2024, law enforcement officers searched his residence in Hiawatha, Iowa, where they found a firearm that Davis knowingly possessed. Davis has three drug‑related felony convictions. In a prior hearing, evidence showed that earlier in the day on February 3, 2024, Davis had pistol-whipped a victim with that same firearm, resulting in the victim falling down several stairs and sustaining injuries. 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. Sentencing before United States District Court Chief Judge C.J. Williams will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Davis remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. Davis faces a possible maximum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, and 3 years of supervised release following any imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Devra T. Hake and was investigated by the Hiawatha Police Department. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 24-CR-41. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Department of Justice Recognizes Assistant United States Attorney For Superior Appellate Work

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. Attorney Dena J. King announced today that Assistant U.S. Attorney (AUSA) Anthony J. Enright is the recipient of the Director’s Award for Superior Appellate Performance. The Director’s Award recognizes excellence throughout the U.S. Attorney community and honors the exceptional contributions to the Justice Department’s mission by AUSAs in criminal and civil cases, and appellate work, and other programmatic areas, across the 94 federal Districts that comprise the United States. “For nearly 10 years, Anthony has distinguished himself as one of the top appellate lawyers in the Department of Justice community,” said U.S. Attorney King. “Through this award, the Department of Justice has recognized Anthony for his superior appellate performance, his dedication, and his service to the people of the Western District of North Carolina. Anthony is a committed public servant who has helped advance my Office’s critical appellate work and further the mission of the Justice Department. Anthony’s high standards of professional conduct and his contributions as an appellate litigator have had a powerful impact in ensuring the strength of our justice system and enhancing the security of our communities.” AUSA Enright joined the Appellate Division of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in 2014. During his tenure, Anthony has written countless appellate briefs, presented more than 60 oral arguments before the United States Court of Appeals for the Fourth Circuit, and secured dozens of published appellate decisions affirming the position of the United States. He has successfully defended on appeal the convictions and sentences of violent offenders, domestic terrorists, child predators, drug traffickers, fraudsters, tax cheats, and people who didn’t follow the rules while on federal property. AUSA Enright has also won decisions about constitutional law, statutory interpretation, sentencing, and the application of our treaties that are helpful to the Justice Department’s mission. AUSA Enright is a stellar example of the best the Justice Department has to offer. Thanks to AUSA Enright’s appellate advocacy, our community in the Western District is a safer place. AUSA Enright received his Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Illinois and his law degree from the University of Notre Dame Law School. He is originally from Chicago, Illinois.


title: Sanford Man Sentenced To More Than 10 Years In Federal Prison For Armed Robbery

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Orlando, Florida– U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Cristian Manuel Rodriguez Nunez (28, Sanford) to 10 years and 5 months in federal prison for Hobbs Act Robbery and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to the robbery. Rodriguez Nunez entered a guilty plea on April 1, 2024. According to court documents, on August 10, 2019, Rodriguez Nunez, along with his co-defendants Tauri Benjamin Rivas Nunez (Rivas Nunez), Victor Hugo Castillo Vallejo (Castillo Vallejo), and Luis Miguel Valdez Mendez (Valdez Mendez) robbed a T-Mobile store in Oviedo, Florida. During the robbery, Rodriguez Nunez entered the store wearing a facemask and pointed a firearm at one of the employees. While pointing the firearm at the employee, Rodriguez Nunez forced the employee to open the store’s safe and remove the electronics and other merchandise from the safe into a trash bag. Meanwhile, Rivas Nunez approached another T-Mobile employee, who he placed in a chokehold, after which he stole that employee’s cell phone and money from the cash register. Valdez Mendez searched through a customer’s purse and assisted Rivas Nunez with taking money from the register. Once the robbery was completed, all defendants entered a vehicle driven by Castillo Vallejo, who acted as the lookout and getaway driver. Unbeknownst to Rodriguez Nunez and his co-defendants, a location tracking device placed into the trash bag containing the stolen merchandise provided law enforcement with their location, which led to the apprehension of Valdez Mendez, Rivas Nunez, and Castillo Vallejo, as well as the recovery of approximately $20,000 in stolen electronics and the firearm. Rodriguez Nunez had fled the area prior to law enforcement arriving and remained a fugitive for several years. In October of 2023, law enforcement located and apprehended Rodriguez Nunez in New York. Castillo Vallejo pled guilty and was sentenced to 90 months in federal prison on July 14, 2021. Valdez Mendez pled guilty and was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison on July 14, 2021. Rivas Nunez was found guilty by a jury on May 12, 2021, and was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison on July 21, 2021. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office, and the Orange County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael Sartoian. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Brownsburg Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 22 Years in Federal Prison for Selling Stolen Firearms to Pawn Shop

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

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS- Jason Compliment, 42, of Brownsburg, Indiana, has been sentenced to 22 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. In February of 2024, a federal jury found Compliment guilty of unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon following a two-day trial. According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, on July 16, 2022, the defendant sold three firearms to a north Indianapolis pawnshop for $725. Video surveillance footage captured him selling the firearms and receiving the pawn ticket in his own name. Mr. Compliment has numerous prior felony convictions in Hendricks and Marion Counties—including eight burglaries, resisting law enforcement, and possession of methamphetamine, making him an Armed Career Criminal under federal law. In one prior case, the defendant burglarized a church and stole funds meant for the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. Each one of these previous felony convictions prohibits the defendant from ever legally possessing a firearm again. “The defendant’s long list of prior criminal sentences, ranging from probation to incarceration, have failed to deter him from continuing to illegally possess guns,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “He showed so little respect for the law he was even willing to sell the guns under his own name. Much of the gun violence inflicted on our communities is caused by individuals who are prohibited by law from having a firearm in the first place. Thanks to the work of the ATF, IMPD, and our federal prosecutors the public will be protected from this career criminal for years to come.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and IMPD investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by U.S District Judge James P. Hanlon. U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorneys Jeremy C. Fugate and Bradley A. Blackington, who prosecuted this case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. ###


title: U.S. Attorney Easley Announces Ongoing Wilmington-Area  Violent Crime Strategy

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – Today, U.S. Attorney Michael Easley, along with federal and local law enforcement, provided an update regarding ongoing and coordinated efforts to address violent crime in Wilmington and surrounding areas. The Violent Crime Action Plan (VCAP) is a collaboration of the U.S. Attorney’s Office with the Wilmington Police Department (WPD), the New Hanover County Sheriff’s Office, the New Hanover County District Attorney’s Office, the United States Marshals Service (USMS), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). A primary objective of the VCAP is to investigate and prosecute individuals contributing significantly to crime in the city of Wilmington and surrounding areas. As part of this effort, law enforcement most recently led a coordinated apprehension operation in June to identify and arrest defendants who were wanted for various outstanding charges, including violent offenses and drug offenses. According to court documents, the following nine individuals, all from the Wilmington area, were arrested on federal charges as part of the recent enforcement effort: Steven Ray Berg III, 29, distribution of cocaine. Kevon Lamante Bracey, 26, possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base (crack), possession of a machinegun in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a machinegun and possession of a firearm by a felon. Treyquan Deonte Corbett, 25, conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, distribution of heroin, methamphetamine, and fentanyl, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Robert James Dick, 24, possession of firearm by a felon, possession of a machinegun. Kevin Emmanuel Freeman, 29, conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin, distribution of fentanyl, and aiding and abetting. Rashawn Herbert Hines, 29, conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and heroin, distribution of fentanyl, and aiding and abetting. Tyke’eke Monte Hines, 25, conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, distribution of heroin. William Rashiem Lane, 35, possession of firearm by a felon. Andre Session, 29, federal supervised release violation. Since the beginning of last year, a team of prosecutors, analysts, and investigators have collaborated to identify, charge, and arrest, individuals contributing to violent crime in Wilmington and surrounding areas, leading to 37 federal indictments and 41 guns seized, including five fully-automatic machineguns and six privately made firearms commonly known as “Ghost Guns.” In addition, over 40 grams of fentanyl have been seized – enough for 20,000 potentially fatal doses. In the cases that have already been resolved, defendants collectively face over 1,700 months in custody. “We are working around the clock to identify and prosecute anyone driving gun violence and narcotics trafficking in the Wilmington area,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “Our VCAP partnership makes public safety in Southeastern North Carolina a top priority and brings federal resources to the fight. In the heat of summer, when violence tends to spike, we want the public to know that we’re working relentlessly to keep violent crime on the decline. This partnership has already taken dozens of guns off the streets, including five fully-automatic machine guns. Any felon caught with a gun this summer faces the very real threat of federal prosecution. This team is laser focused on driving down gun violence and drug trafficking in this region.” “I am extremely proud of the dedication and hard work that our officers and detectives have put into assisting with this joint operation. Illegal narcotics in the hands of criminals is a dangerous problem that we will continue to combat on the front lines. I am thankful for the strong partnerships we have with our local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Our department will diligently work to pursue and prosecute those responsible for illegal activities to foster a safer environment for our citizens to live and work,” said Wilmington Police Chief Donny Williams. “Our federal and state partnerships are demonstrating exceptional effectiveness in catching criminals who know no jurisdictional lines,” said New Hanover County Sheriff Ed McMahon. “Our collaborative effort enhances public safety across the state. By leveraging the unique strengths and resources of both federal and state agencies, we are able to streamline operations, share critical information, and execute coordinated strategies that lead to successful apprehensions.” “These arrests demonstrate the strong partnership between state and federal authorities and are yet another step towards making Wilmington a safer community,” said New Hanover County District Attorney Ben David. “My office appreciates the collaboration with the law enforcement and prosecutorial partners and will continue to seek maximum sentences in any venue for individuals who are committing offenses involving firearms and fentanyl.” “The United States Marshals Service, through its long standing federal, state, and local partnerships ensures that violent fugitives are continuously pursued, discretely located, and safely arrested,” said U.S. Marshal Glenn McNeill for the Eastern District of North Carolina. “The Wilmington VCAP is yet another example of those efforts.” “The FBI is committed to identifying, arresting, and working with our partners at the U.S. Attorney's Office to prosecute violent criminal street gang members and drug traffickers. It doesn't matter whether it's gang violence in a major metropolitan area or fentanyl sales in a rural neighborhood, neither has a place in our communities. The FBI's Safe Streets Task Force works every day to rid our communities of these destructive illegal activities," said Robert M. DeWitt, the FBI Special Agent in Charge in North Carolina. “Collaboration is an important part of any plan aimed at addressing violent crime,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims. “ATF is proud to be a part of the Violent Crime Action Plan and we remain committed to working with our local, state, and federal partners to protect our communities.” An indictment/criminal complaint is merely an accusation. The defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. ###


title: Dominican Republic National Sentenced To Federal Prison For Passport Fraud And Aggravated Identity Theft

body_text: Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Ivan Desiderio Peralta Rosario (33, Dominican Republic) to four years in federal prison for passport fraud and aggravated identify theft. Peralta Rosario pleaded guilty to these offenses on March 20, 2024. According to the plea agreement, Peralta Rosario is a citizen of the Dominican Republic who was previously deported from the United States after being convicted of unauthorized possession of an identification card and dealing in stolen property. He subsequently reentered the United States and filed an application for a U.S. Passport. Peralta Rosario presented a false Florida Driver License and birth certificate in the name of L.J.M.M. and used the name, date of birth, and Social Security Number of L.J.M.M. in his passport application. This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement- Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Diplomatic Security Service, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the Orlando Police Department, the North Carolina DMV Police, the Georgia DMV Police, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division, and the Dickson Tennessee Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shannon Laurie.


title: Defendants Plead Guilty to Stealing Identities of the Homeless to Fraudulently Apply for Unemployment Benefits

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Olabanji Otufale and Marc Lazarre pleaded guilty without a plea agreement to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. The proceeding was held before United States District Judge Kiyo A. Matsumoto. The defendants pleaded guilty as jury selection and trial was set to begin this morning. When sentenced, the defendants each face a maximum sentence of 32 years’ imprisonment and a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years’ imprisonment. Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, Christie M. Curtis, Acting Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), and Jocelyn Strauber, Commissioner, New York City Department of Investigation (DOI), announced the guilty pleas. “The defendants shamefully stole vulnerable homeless victims’ personal identifying information for their own personal gain,” stated United States Attorney Breon Peace. “Instead of investigating fraud, as the City of New York trusted Otufale to do, the defendants abused Otufale’s position and access to sensitive data to commit fraud. That the defendants face a mandatory prison sentence of two years should serve as a deterrent message to others who think about corruptly stealing identities and taxpayer funds.” “Leveraging his position within the New York City Department of Homeless Services, Olbanji Otufale stole homeless individuals’ personal information and enlisted a co-conspirator to use these sensitive details for his own financial benefit. The defendants’ actions exemplify the harmful abuses of power the FBI is dedicated to preventing, and we applaud the efforts of our office and the Department of Investigation in bringing about this verdict,” stated FBI Acting Assistant Director in Charge Curtis. DOI Commissioner Jocelyn E. Strauber said, “These two defendants exploited the intended beneficiaries of public funds to steal those funds for their own gain. Unacceptable under any circumstances, this conduct is particularly troubling because one defendant, a City fraud investigator, had a duty to identify and prevent the very crimes in which he engaged, abusing his access and position of trust and authority. I thank the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York and the FBI for their continued partnership in protecting public funds and holding accountable those who drain these precious resources for personal profit.” As alleged in the indictment, court filings and statements made in court, in the fall of 2020, the defendants conspired to steal the personal identifying information of homeless individuals and use that stolen information to fraudulently apply for unemployment insurance benefits in the names of those homeless individuals without their knowledge or consent. At the time of the scheme, Otufale was a fraud investigator with the New York City Department of Homeless Services. In that role, Otufale was responsible for ensuring individuals who applied for homeless services—such as housing in homeless shelters—were qualified to receive New York City Department of Homeless services. Otufale, however, used his access to a Department of Homeless Services database to steal the personal identifying information—names, social security numbers, dates of birth—of vulnerable victims who had given that personal information to the Department of Homeless Services when they applied for social services. Otufale then texted this victim information to Lazarre who applied online for unemployment benefits in the names of the homeless victims. Otufale and Lazarre conspired to split the fraudulent benefits they received. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Public Integrity Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Sara K. Winik, Laura Zuckerwise and Katherine P. Onyshko are in charge of the prosecution, with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Nadya Osman. The Defendants : Olabanji Otufale Age: 41 Brooklyn, New York Marc Lazarre Age: 39 Secaucus, New Jersey E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-170 (KAM)


title: Arapahoe man is sentenced for assault by strangulation

body_text: Daniel Anthony Whiteplume, 26, of Arapahoe, Wyoming, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for assault by strangulation. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on July 10, 2024. According to court documents, on September 6, 2022, Whiteplume was receiving a ride to an uncle’s house due to his intoxication. During the ride, he became angry and jerked the steering wheel of the moving car. The driver was near the uncle’s house and pulled over. Whiteplume began beating and then strangling the victim, who was the driver. The victim was later taken to the hospital and contacted by the Wind River Police Department. Special agents and victim services personnel with the FBI were also brought in to assist with the investigation. They observed injuries consistent with the victim’s account of the incident. Whiteplume pleaded guilty to the charge on March 30, 2023. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy W. Gist prosecuted this case. Case No. 22-CR-00142


title: Former Postal Worker Pleads  Guilty to Mail Theft

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DAVID RAYFORD (“RAYFORD”) , age 40, of Kenner, La., pled guilty on July 9, 2024, to Mail Theft, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1709. His sentencing is set for October 8, 2024. According to court records , on June 14, 2021, a Postal Service customer, contacted the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General to report non-delivery of a greeting card that was sent to his address. The card was sent by a family member, in early May, 2021. The family member advised that she mailed a Navy Federal Credit Union Visa gift card and cash to the victim and was able to provide a receipt for the purchase of the gift card. RAYFORD , was an employee of the United States Postal Service and the postman on the route on which the card was stolen. RAYFORD used the stolen Navy Federal Credit Union Visa gift card at Walmart. Walmart Global Investigations identified two purchases utilizing the Navy Federal Credit Union Visa gift card made by RAYFORD . RAYFORD faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years of imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee, for the theft of mail. The case was investigated by the United States Postal Service, Office of the Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. of the General Crimes Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Allegheny County Man And Woman Charged With Fraud And Identity Theft Offenses For Fraudulently Obtaining Prescription Medications

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: HARRISBURG – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Donte Lucas, age 27, and Jania Aceituno, age 26, both of Dravosburg, Pennsylvania, were indicted on July 10, 2024, on charges of wire fraud conspiracy and aggravated identity theft. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that Lucas, Aceituno, and their coconspirators used stolen identities and DEA registration numbers of healthcare providers to order fraudulent prescription medications at various pharmacies. The indictment further alleges that Lucas, Aceituno, and their coconspirators obtained and distributed those prescription medications, including the controlled substance Promethazine with Codeine—commonly known as “Lean” on the street. “Fraudulently obtaining controlled prescription drugs violates FDA requirements which exist to ensure that the drugs are safe and used under the supervision of licensed medical practitioners,” said Special Agent in Charge George Scavdis, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office. “We will continue to thoroughly investigate those who endanger public health by undermining the integrity of the U.S. supply chain for these tightly controlled drugs.” The case was investigated by the Food and Drug Administration, Office of the Inspector General, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael Scalera is prosecuting the case. The maximum penalty under federal law for the wire fraud conspiracy offense is 20 years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. The aggravated identity theft offense carries a mandatory two-year sentence of imprisonment that is to run consecutive to any other term of imprisonment imposed. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Michigan Man Sentenced to Decade for Drug Trafficking

component: USAO - West Virginia, Northern

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Kalen Daevon Lee, age 31, of Detroit, Michigan, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. According to court documents and statements made in court, Lee, also known as “Tay,” was involved with a drug trafficking operation in Harrison, Monongalia, and Taylor Counties. Lee was using a motel room in Morgantown to sell narcotics, supplied out of Detroit, Michigan. Investigators searched the hotel room, a storage unit, and conducted a traffic stop, seizing nearly two pounds of fentanyl. Lee will report for four years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brandon Flower prosecuted the case on behalf of the government. The Mon Metro Drug Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative, investigated. Chief U.S. District Judge Thomas S. Kleeh presided.


title: Convicted Felon Indicted on Federal Firearms Charge

body_text: WASHINGTON – Charles Wesley Monroe, 19, of Washington, D.C., was indicted today by a grand jury on a federal firearms charge stemming from his possession of a loaded firearm in April 2024, announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves; Special Agent in Charge Craig Kailimai of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF); and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). The indictment, unsealed today, alleges that on April 29, 2024, Monroe unlawfully possessed a 9mm Smith & Wesson SD9 2.0 semiautomatic pistol and 9mm ammunition, knowing he previously had been convicted in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia of an offense punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. According to the government’s evidence, on April 29, 2024, MPD officers approached a man in the 1400 block of Girard Street Northwest to investigate an unrelated offense. Monroe, who was standing nearby, broke into unprovoked flight and evaded police. Moments later, officers observed Monroe return to the scene and run under an apartment building stairwell while clutching his waist. Officers apprehended Monroe and located a firearm nearby. The firearm and its magazine were swabbed for DNA and submitted to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia, for testing and analysis. The results linked both the firearm and magazine to Monroe. Monroe was arrested on April 29, 2024, and initially charged by criminal complaint in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia. He has remained held without bond since his arrest. Federal law prohibits Monroe from possessing a firearm and ammunition because, in September 2023, he was convicted in the D.C. Superior Court of robbery, an offense punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year. Monroe was on probation for that offense at the time of his arrest in this case. Monroe faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum potential penalties in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentence imposed in this case will be determined by the Court after considering the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The case was investigated by ATF and MPD as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI Laboratory in Quantico, Virginia. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kyle M. McWaters and Paul V. Courtney, with assistance from Assistant U.S. Attorney Augustin Horner. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office Secures Guilty Plea in Fatal DUI Case

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Sanostee man pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of involuntary manslaughter stemming from a fatal drunk-driving crash on the Navajo Nation that killed two people in August 2023. According to publicly available court documents, on the morning of August 12, 2023, Leonardo Robbie Duncan , 33, was driving on Navajo Route 36 near Upper Fruitland, New Mexico, which is within the exterior boundaries of the Navajo Nation. Duncan was drunk and driving in an unsafe manner when he crossed into on-coming traffic and crashed head-on into the front passenger side of Jane and John Doe’s vehicle. Instead of checking on Jane and John Doe and rendering aid, Duncan fled on foot. Jane and John Doe died shortly after. When Duncan turned himself in six hours later, he was still intoxicated with a blood-alcohol content of 0.08. Duncan will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Duncan faces up to eight years in prison and up to three years of supervised release. U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Jena Ritchey is prosecuting the case. View the Plea Agreement # # #


title: Colorado Couple Indicted for $5 Million COVID-19 Relief Program Fraud Scheme

component: USAO - Colorado

body_text: DENVER - The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Joshua Lybolt, 45, and Magdalena Lybolt, 46, of Castle Rock, Colorado, were indicted by a federal grand jury in Colorado. Joshua Lybolt has been charged with wire fraud and money laundering and Magdalena Lybolt with wire fraud. According to the indictment, from April 2020 until around August 2022, Joshua Lybolt applied for and received $4,950,000 in COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and $41,667 in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) funds from an SBA-approved lender. The indictment alleges that Joshua Lybolt falsely certified in fraudulent loan applications that the business entities suffered losses as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, despite knowing that the business entities were not in operation on the dates required to receive relief funds. The indictment further alleges that Joshua Lybolt and Magdalena Lybolt falsely certified that all the loan proceeds would be used for business expenses when, in fact, they used the bulk of the proceeds for personal expenses including a 2022 Porsche Taycan, a 2016 Land Rover Range Rover, memberships in a country club, a luxury vacation club, and real estate properties. The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act was enacted in March 2020 and was designed to provide emergency financial assistance to Americans dealing with the economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. The CARES Act created the PPP, a program administered by the SBA that provided loans to small businesses to retain workers, maintain payroll, and certain other expenses consistent with PPP rules. Additionally, the CARES Act authorized the SBA to provide EIDLs to eligible small businesses experiencing substantial financial disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The defendants made their initial appearance on July 11, 2024, in Denver in front of Magistrate Judge Scott T. Varholak. The charges contained in the indictment are allegations and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Theodore O’Brien and Craig Fansler. On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . On July 11, 2023, the Attorney General selected the District of Colorado’s U.S. Attorney’s Office to head one of five national COVID-19 Fraud Strike Force Teams. The Department of Justice established the Strike Force to enhance existing efforts to combat and prevent COVID-19 related financial fraud. The Strike Force combines law enforcement and prosecutorial resources and focuses on large-scale, multistate pandemic relief fraud perpetrated by criminal organizations and transnational actors, as well as those who committed multiple instances of pandemic relief fraud. The Strike Force uses prosecutor-led and data analyst-driven teams to identify and bring to justice those who stole pandemic relief funds. Additional information regarding the Strike Force may be found at https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/justice-department-announces-results-nationwide-covid-19-fraud-enforcement-action . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form


title: U.S. Attorney and FBI Charge Shiprock Man for  Violent Assault Against an Intimate Partner

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man was charged by criminal complaint for a brutal domestic assault that left leaving the victim with multiple injuries including fractures, lacerations requiring stitches, and extensive bruising. Deshaun Begay , 20, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, appeared before a federal judge today and will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for July 15, 2024. According to the criminal complaint, on July 4, 2024, the Navajo Nation Police Department (NNPD) responded to a report of assault in Shiprock, NM. Upon arrival, officers found the victim with multiple severe injuries to her face and head. The victim was immediately transported to Northern Navajo Medical Center for treatment. According to the complaint, the victim reported four separate additional incidents of domestic violence since May 2024 which went unreported due to the defendant’s representation that the victim would not be believed due the defendant’s purported association with local authorities. On July 4, 2024, Begay continued his angry and physically abusive behavior after drinking with the victim. He then struck the victim repeatedly with his fists before escalating the assault with various weapons including a dog leash, a 10-pound dumbbell, and a chain with a padlock. The victim sustained multiple injuries including bruising, lacerations requiring stitches and staples and a nasal bone fracture. If convicted of the current charges, Begay faces up to 10 years in prison. U.S. Attorney Alexander M.M. Uballez and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today. The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department, the Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case. View the Criminal Complaint A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. # # #


title: Alleged drug dealer to downtown Seattle, Aurora, ID, and homeless encampments indicted for drug and gun crimes

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – A 48-year-old Seattle area man is in federal custody tonight after being indicted by a grand jury for two counts of possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Simon Offord is allegedly linked to drug dealing in multiple Seattle neighborhoods and in various homeless encampments. Searches of his vehicles and a Shoreline hotel room resulted in seizures of significant quantities of fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, methamphetamine, and Alprazolam. Offord was arraigned on the indictment on July 8, 2024, and detained on July 11, 2024. According to police reports and other records filed in the case, Offord came to the attention of Seattle Police patrol officers in December 2023 when he drove the wrong way down a street in Seattle. Before police could contact him, he abandoned the car he was driving in a parking lot. Inside the car officers saw what appeared to be drugs. After getting a warrant to search the vehicle they found drugs packaged to for delivery, scales, and other indications of drug dealing as well as a ‘ghost gun’- one made without a serial number. Over a number of months, Seattle Police looked for Offord and ultimately tracked him to a Shoreline hotel, just off of Aurora Avenue. On May 30, 2024, Offord was arrested at one of his dealing locations along Aurora in North Seattle. A search of his hotel room and vehicle yielded nine pounds of fentanyl powder, approximately 2900 fentanyl pills, and more than a pound of methamphetamine, crack cocaine, heroin, and other drugs. Police also seized another firearm. Offord was booked into the King County Jail but later was released on bail. Due to the large amount of drugs involved in these seizures, the crimes are punishable by a mandatory minimum ten years in prison and up to life in prison. Possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime adds an additional five years in prison to run consecutive to any other sentence imposed. The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The case is being investigated by the Seattle Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Casey Conzatti and Brian Wynne.


title: Canadian man indicted, arrested for nearly 30-year Social Security benefit fraud scheme

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE, Alaska – A Canadian man was arrested in Los Angeles on July 8 after a federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging him with stealing over $420,000 of his mother’s Social Security benefits in a nearly 30-year complex fraud scheme. According to court documents, beginning in roughly 1995, Ellis Kingsep, aka Ellis King, 77, allegedly created private postal mailbox accounts to hide the fact that he was a sending and receiving his mother’s mail. The defendant allegedly changed the mailing addresses for his mother every few years to a new address in California, and eventually Vancouver, British Columbia, and Alaska. In 2013, the Social Security Administration received a change of address notice signed by Kingsep’s mother, stating that she was moving to Alaska and requested her address be changed to one in Fairbanks. The address in Fairbanks was for a mail forwarding service that, allegedly per instructions from the defendant, would receive the mail in his mother’s name, repackage it in his name and ship it to two different private mailbox services located in Vancouver. Those services, again allegedly per instructions from the defendant, would repackage and forward the mail to private mailbox services in Los Angeles, where Kingsep would regularly collect his mail. The indictment alleges the mother’s name or information were not used for any of the private mailbox registrations. All registrations were done with Kingsep’s information, and they were all in his name. Beginning in 1996, the Social Security Administration made direct deposits of Social Security retirement benefits for Kingsep’s mother into a different bank account than previously used. The new account was held in the names of the defendant and his mother. The Social Security Administration continued the direct deposits until 2023. Bank security video shows the defendant regularly withdrawing cash from the account in Los Angeles. The indictment alleges that the defendant’s mother would be 102 at the time of indictment, and that there has been no record of her since 1993. Kingsep is charged with five counts of mail fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1341, one count of aggravated identity theft in violation of 18 U.S.C. §1028A and one count of social security fraud in violation of 18 U.S.C. §408(a)(3). The defendant made his initial court appearance on July 11 before the U.S. District Court for the Central District of California and is awaiting transport to Alaska by the U.S. Marshal’s Service. If convicted, he faces a mandatory sentence of two years in prison for aggravated identity theft, in addition to up to 20 years in prison for his other alleged crimes. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska and Special Agent-in-Charge Christian Assaad, of the Denver Seattle Field Division, Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General made the announcement. The Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tom Bradley is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Pikeville Doctor Sentenced for Illegally Prescribing Amphetamines

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: PIKEVILLE, Ky. – A Pikeville doctor, Dr. Jason Stamper, 52, was sentenced on Monday, by Chief U.S. District Judge Danny Reeves, to 32 months for illegally prescribing amphetamines. According to his plea agreement, between April 15, 2022, and September 27, 2022, law enforcement made six undercover patient visits to Stamper’s clinic. At each of those visits, Stamper prescribed Ritalin and Adderall to the undercover officer, without a legitimate medical purpose. Stamper performed no medical examinations, did not inquire into the legitimate medical need for the prescriptions, took no action when the undercover officer failed to secure blood work for five visits, increased doses, and switched between the Ritalin and Adderall without explanation. Under federal law, Stamper must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years. Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Erek Davodowich, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Louisville Field Division, jointly announced the sentence. The investigation was conducted by the DEA. Assistant U.S. Attorney Pearce Nesbitt prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States. — END —


title: Significant member of a Whatcom County fentanyl trafficking ring sentenced to 4 years in prison

body_text: Seattle – A Bellingham, Washington woman who was a redistributor for a fentanyl distribution ring was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Seattle, announced U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Natasha Parkhill, 38, of Bellingham pleaded guilty in March 2024 and was sentenced today to 4 years in prison. At the sentencing hearing U.S. District Judge Richard A. Jones said, “You knew what the devastation would be since you had a drug addiction yet you still continued to distribute fentanyl without regard for the impact on the community.” “This drug ring, and specifically Ms. Parkhill as a drug redistributor, had a terrible impact on the Lummi Nation – a tribe that is dealing with tragically high fentanyl overdose deaths,” said U.S. Attorney Gorman. “I appreciate the Lummi Nation leadership speaking to the court today about fentanyl’s impact on the community, to hold these defendants accountable for the harm they have caused.” According to records filed in the case, Parkhill was one of six people charged federally in a months-long investigation of fentanyl dealing in Whatcom County. The ring was actively moving fentanyl from the Seattle area to redistributors in Bellingham. Law enforcement officers observed various drug transactions and interdicted the drug loads. In one instance, law enforcement was called to a mini-mart where two people involved with the drug ring overdosed on fentanyl and had to be revived and transported to the hospital. Parkhill was observed by law enforcement engaging in drug sales. In January 2023 law enforcement attempted to arrest her but she fled. Her car suffered a mechanical problem, and she was taken into custody. She had about 1,000 fentanyl pills and over $1300 in cash when she was arrested. Lummi Nation Chairman Anthony Hillaire spoke today at the sentencing of Ms. Parkhill. “Drug dealing is a crime that is very much intentional and for monetary gain at the expense of familial loss. This destruction of our generations will have a long-lasting, negative impact on our people,” he remarked. In a letter to the Court, he continued to describe the devastation of the fentanyl crisis: “In our community, I have witnessed spouses, parents, children, siblings, grandchildren, cousins, and friends plan funeral arrangement for a loved one due to a drug overdose. I will never forget the cries of elementary-aged children crying for their father at his funeral and saying, ‘I just want my daddy’.” Two other members of the drug ring have already been sentenced: 39-year-old Daniel Faix of Bellingham was sentenced in March 2024 to ten years in prison. Ahbdurman Ahmed, 33, of Seattle was sentenced in January 2024 to six years in prison. Defendant Mohamed Abdirisak Mohamed, 35, of Seattle pleaded guilty in January and will be sentenced in September. Defendant Matthew Anderson, 35, of Bellingham, pleaded guilty to drug trafficking charges on June 25, 2024. Defendant Robel Sisay Gebremedhin, 41, of Burien, WA is being sought by law enforcement. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . This investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Whatcom County Drug and Gang Task Force, with valuable assistance provided by the Whatcom County Sheriff’s Office, Washington State Patrol, the Whatcom County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Lummi Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Hobbs.


title: Two Ireland nationals are charged with wire fraud for scheme to steal from elderly homeowners

body_text: Seattle – Two individuals from Ireland are charged in U.S. District Court in Seattle with conspiracy to commit wire fraud for their theft of more than $400,000 from a Shoreline, Washington, homeowner. Patrick McDonagh and Matthew McDonagh were arrested by U.S. Customs and Border Protection in mid-June and have been held at the immigration detention center. They have been transferred to the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac and will make their first appearance on the criminal charge today at 2:00 PM. According to the criminal complaint, the pair was part of a group that traveled the country allegedly scamming homeowners – especially the elderly – by falsely representing the home needed an urgent repair. One older homeowner in the Shoreline neighborhood north of Seattle, lost about $435,000 to the scheme. “This type of fraud on our elderly neighbors is heartbreaking,” said U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “To pose as someone trying to help them, while all the while the goal is to steal as much as they can from the victim’s hard-earned retirement funds. It is a special kind of cruelty to engage in such conduct.” The men first approached the victim in January 2024, claimed they were working in the neighborhood and had noticed that the victim had a hole in his roof. The men offered to fix the hole and remove the moss from the roof. Over the course of a few days, they pressured the victim to write them checks for their “services” of $15,000, $20,000, and $26,000. They also claimed that the victim’s foundation was cracked, and they said they would repair that with a “titanium tie rod system.” The roof had no hole, and the foundation was not failing. However, the men dug trenches and poured some concrete to make it appear work was done, and each day they pressured the victim to write more checks. They even demanded an extra $20,000 for “taxes.” Ultimately, they demanded the victim wire $200,000 to a third party for building supplies – again far in excess of any work they claimed to have done. In all the brothers stole $435,000 from the victim. The FBI investigation connected the brothers to contractor fraud complaints in Washington County, Oregon and Spokane, Washington totaling about $50,000. In those cases, they used fake photos of holes in the homeowner’s roof or alleged problems with the house’s foundation or posed as local-reputable businesses. “Sadly, seniors are often an attractive target for fraudsters attempting to steal a lifetime of savings, and scammers are skilled at deceiving people, said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Seattle field office. “We encourage consumers to stay vigilant and avoid making quick decisions before doing research or getting to know someone. If you think you or someone you know could be a fraud victim, call your financial institution immediately and report suspected fraud to the FBI at tips.fbi.gov.” Red flags for contractor fraud: The contractor knocks on your door looking for business because they are “in the area” and uses aggressive sales tactics. The contractor pressures you for an immediate hiring decision. The contractor accepts only cash as payment and demands full payment before starting any work. In the sales pitch, the contractor claims to have materials left over from a previous job. Tips to avoid contractor fraud: Always get multiple estimates for any work you want done. Ensure contractors are licensed and insured. Look them up at Washington State’s Department of Labor & Industries website at https://secure.lni.wa.gov/verify/ Check with consumer protection agencies such as the Better Business Bureau and Federal Trade Commission to search for complaints against a contractor. Conspiracy to commit Wire fraud is punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The charges contained in the criminal complaint are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The case is being investigated by the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Watts Staniar. Ms. Staniar serves as the Elder Fraud Coordinator for the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Western District of Washington. To learn more about the department’s elder justice efforts please visit the Elder Justice Initiative page . mcdonagh_complaint_patrick_and_matthew.pdf


title: New Haven Man Sentenced to More Than 9 Years in Federal Prison for Narcotics and Firearms Offenses

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DONELL ALLICK, JR., also known as “D-Nice,” 25, of New Haven, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Victor A. Bolden in New Haven to 115 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses. According to the evidence presented during his trial, between April and October 2022, Allick conspired with others to distribute fentanyl and crack cocaine in the New Haven area. In September and October 2022, law enforcement made controlled purchases of fentanyl from Allick and an associate. On October 24, 2022, investigators conducted a court-authorized search of a Hamden apartment that Allick used and seized three loaded handguns with extended magazines, approximately 73 grams of fentanyl, approximately 34 grams of crack cocaine, items used to process and package narcotics for street sale, and $15,000 in cash. A related search of Allick’s car, which had been observed in suspected drug transactions, resulted in the seizure of another loaded handgun with a 30-round extended magazine, quantities of fentanyl and crack cocaine, and $2,144 in cash. Ballistics analysis of the three handguns found in Allick’s residence revealed that they had been used in six shootings, including two homicides, that occurred between September 13, 2021, and September 16, 2022. On March 21, 2023, Allick was found guilty of one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack cocaine”); one count of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, fentanyl; and one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and cocaine base. The jury found Allick not guilty of possession with intent to distribute, and distribution of, a quantity of fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute cocaine base; and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. After the trial, and before the jury returned its verdict, Allick pleaded guilty to unlawful possession of firearms by a felon. Allick’s criminal history include state convictions for escape in the first degree, assault in the second degree-serious injury, and carrying a pistol or revolver without a permit. Allick has been detained since his arrest on November 10, 2022, and is currently awaiting trial in a separate federal case . This investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF); the New Haven Police Department; and the Hamden Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara E. Levens and Rahul Kale through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Toledo Man Pleads Guilty to Robbery of Postal Employee at Gunpoint

component: USAO - Ohio, Northern

body_text: TOLEDO – Michael Bush, 22, of Toledo, Ohio, has pleaded guilty to robbery of mail, money, or other property of the United States, stealing mail collection box keys, and mail theft. The violations took place while a United States Postal Service (USPS) letter carrier was on a delivery route in July 2023. According to court documents, an individual later identified as Bush, approached the carrier while they sat in a parked USPS truck on Ryewyck Drive in Toledo, Ohio. He grabbed keys for both the mail truck and the collection box and robbed the carrier at gunpoint of their personal cellphone and a USPS parcel scanner. A witness who observed the incident provided a description of the suspect to investigators. The Toledo Police Department (TPD) recovered surveillance video of the robbery and identified the vehicle involved in the theft as being registered to Michael Bush. A large, black garbage bag containing U.S. Mail was recovered during a federal search warrant executed by the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the TPD at Bush’s residence. Nearly 200 mail theft victims were identified. Inspectors also recovered several firearms and rifle magazines. The vehicle identified in the surveillance video was later recovered at a separate location where Bush’s aunt resides. Additionally, images recovered on Bush’s cellphone show him posing with large stacks of U.S. currency and firearms. Update-Nov. 18, 2024: Bush was sentenced on Nov. 18, 2024, to 66 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Jack Zouhary for robbery of mail, money or other property of the United States, stealing mail collection box keys, and mail theft. Restitution amount to be determined at a later date. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank H. Spryszak for the Northern District of Ohio. The investigation preceding the indictment was a collaborative effort conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Toledo Police Department. About the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) USPIS is the law enforcement branch of the United States Postal Service. To report mail theft or other crimes committed through, or towards, the United States Postal Service, call the USPIS at 1-877-876-2455 or visit uspis.gov/report . For more information about combatting mail theft visit uspis.gov/project-safe-delivery.


title: Fallcatcher Principal Charged with Securities and Wire Fraud

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – An indictment has been unsealed charging Henry Ford, also known as Cleothus Lefty Jackson, with securities and wire fraud, announced United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero. A grand jury in this district returned the charges against Ford in March 2023, but the charges remained under seal until Ford’s arrest in Arizona last week. According to the indictment, Ford founded and operated a business named Fallcatcher, the stated goal of which was to develop and market an electronic system designed to track use of medication by addiction recovery patients to prevent relapse. The indictment alleges that in Spring 2018, after Ford ran out of investor funds purportedly developing this “system,” Ford used an acquaintance in the Eastern District of Pennsylvania who had access to a network of investors to raise funds from these investors. As a result, in June 2018, Ford made presentations in person to potential investors, who were part of this acquaintance’s network, at locations in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. During these presentations, Ford made false and misleading statements regarding the proposed investment and showed investors a fraudulent letter of interest in the Fallcatcher business. In addition, Ford caused his acquaintance to distribute further false and misleading statements after these presentations. According to the indictment, as a result of these deceptive fundraising efforts, Ford caused approximately 50 investors to invest approximately $5 million in total in Fallcatcher. The indictment further alleges that during an investigation by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) in Fall 2018 and the first half of 2019, Ford took various actions to conceal his fraud upon the investors in Fallcatcher. For instance, it is alleged that Ford lied in multiple SEC depositions. In addition, the indictment alleges that Ford, through his counsel, produced to the SEC a fraudulent email chain to further hide his fraud. Finally, it is alleged that in Spring 2019, Ford accessed Fallcatcher’s investor funds, obtained through fraud, for personal purposes. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum possible sentence of 160 years in prison, three years of supervised release, a $6,750,000 fine, and an $800 special assessment. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Murray. The SEC’s New York Regional Office investigated and litigated the civil securities fraud charges, which formed the basis of a portion of the criminal prosecution. An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Illegal Honduran Alien Indicted for Firearm Possession

body_text: NEW ORLEANS , LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that JOAN E. ESCOBAR-REYES (“ESCOBAR-REYES”) , age 26, a native of Honduras, was indicted on July 11, 2024 for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(5)(A). According to court documents, on or about June 30, 2024, ESCOBAR-REYES , an alien illegally present in the United States, was found in possession of a Glock Model 32, .357 SIG caliber, semi-automatic pistol and a H&R Model 92, .22 LR caliber revolver. If convicted, ESCOBAR-REYES faces a maximum penalty of 15 years of imprisonment, up to a $250,000 fine, up to three years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. U.S. Attorney Evans reiterated that an indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt. 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. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement - Enforcement and Removal Operations and the St. John the Baptist Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Spiro G. Latsis of the General Crimes Unit oversees the prosecution.


title: Preston County Man Charged with Federal Child Pornography Offenses

body_text: CLARKSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – Stephen David Seeger, 45, of Bruceton Mills, West Virginia, has been indicted on charges of coercion and enticement of a minor for sex and child pornography. United States Attorney William Ihlenfeld announced that Seeger was allegedly communicating with a 13-year-old girl online and persuaded her to produce sexually explicit images and videos. Seeger had contact with another victim, a 15-year-old female, from whom he also requested images and videos. “This case serves as a reminder to parents to be vigilant in monitoring their children’s online activity,” said United States Attorney Ihlenfeld. “Tonight is a good night to look at your child’s phone and determine if they are in contact with anyone who could cause them harm.” Seeger was arrested in California and will soon be returned to West Virginia to answer to the charges. He faces up to 30 years in federal prison for production of child pornography, and additional prison time for the charges of enticement and possession of child pornography. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine the appropriate sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberley Crockett is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the West Virginia State Police, and the Preston County Sheriff’s Office investigated. An indictment is merely an allegation, and each defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Lexington Felon Sentenced to Over 3 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a Firearm

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Paducah, KY – A Lexington, Kentucky man was sentenced today to 3 years and 1 month in prison for illegally possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a felony offense. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement. According to court documents, Gary Hoskins, 57, was sentenced to 3 years and 1 month in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for possessing a firearm after having been convicted of a felony offense. Hoskins was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offense. On or about September 24, 2007, in Laurel Circuit Court, Laurel County, Kentucky, Hoskins, was convicted of second-degree burglary. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the ATF Paducah Post of Duty with assistance from the Kentucky State Police and the Graves County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case. ###


title: Bluefield Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – Matthew Alexander Wilson, 29, of Bluefield, pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, on August 16, 2023, Wilson and Denise R. Allen were apprehended at a gun store in Princeton, West Virginia. Following their arrest, Wilson and Allen consented to a search by law enforcement officers of a truck they had rented using a stolen identity. Officers found 431 grams of methamphetamine, 21 grams of fentanyl and two Glock 9mm semiautomatic handguns during the search of the rental truck. Wilson and Allen admitted they possessed the methamphetamine and fentanyl and intended to distribute it. Allen, 30, of Bluefield, was sentenced on June 10, 2024 to five years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Wilson is scheduled to be sentenced on November 12, 2024, and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release, and a $1 million fine. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. The task force consists of members of the West Virginia State Police, the Bluefield Police Department, the Princeton Police Department, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the McDowell County Sheriff’s Department, and the Wyoming County Sheriff’s Department. Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew D. Isabell is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:23-cr-152. ###


title: Slidell Man Sentenced to 92 Months for Drug and Weapons Violations

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that on July 11, 2024, JAMILE ROBINSON (“ROBINSON”) , age 32, a resident of St. Tammany Parish, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Eldon E. Fallon to 92 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $200 mandatory special assessment fee on two-counts of the indictment pending against him. In Count 1 of the indictment, ROBINSON was charged with possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). In Count 3 of the indictment, ROBINSON was charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2). According to court documents, on June 15, 2022, the Slidell Police Department (“SPD”) officers were conducting surveillance at a hotel on Gause Blvd. in Slidell, LA. The surveillance was based upon numerous complaints of narcotics trafficking in and around the hotel. After learning that room 211 of the hotel was registered to ROBINSON , officers approached the room and smelled marijuana coming from within. Officers knocked on the door, a female answered, and the officers saw ROBINSON , in the doorway and reaching into his pocket. After conducting a protective sweep of the hotel room officers saw suspected narcotics on the television nightstand, a digital scale, methamphetamine in the bathroom, as well as a firearm. Officers then obtained a search warrant for the room and recovered a digital scale, marijuana, approximately 122 grams of methamphetamine, and a firearm. Since ROBINSON is a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm. ROBINSON subsequently admitted, both in a written and verbal statement, that the contraband in the room belonged to him. 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. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Slidell Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Inga Petrovich of the Violent Crime/Strike Force Unit.


title: Smartphone Fraudster Sentenced to 29 Months’ Imprisonment After Cheating Investors Out of $10M

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: Salt Lake City, Utah – A Utah businessman was sentenced in federal court today for the second time this year after he admitted to defrauding hundreds of trusting investors throughout the United States out of $10 million in his smartphone company, SAYGUS. Chad Leon Sayers, 60, of Midvale, Utah, was sentenced to 29 months’ imprisonment, 15 of which were ordered to run consecutively to his existing sentence of 41 months’ imprisonment, which was imposed in a separate wire fraud case, for a total of 56 months. See prior release here . The sentence imposed by U.S. District Court Judge David Sam also includes 12 months’ supervised release, and ordered to pay $10,250,834.53 in restitution and a forfeiture money judgement in the same amount. According to court documents and statements made at the change of plea hearing, from 2006 to 2020, Sayers defrauded approximately 300 investors out of $10 million by lying about SAYGUS being on the brink of a multi-billion-dollar pay-out. Sayers claimed to investors he was developing a smartphone called the “V” phone and then later the “V-Squared.” He claimed that a well-known wireless company agreed with SAYGUS to sell and support its phones. Additionally, Sayers told investors that they were capable of receiving 100 times their original investment and that funds would go toward the research, design, and manufacturing of the new smartphone, when in fact no cell phones were being manufactured. Sayers also claimed that SAYGUS was only raising funds through a stock offering to accredited investors, when in fact it was not. For over a decade, Sayers spent investment funds on various expenses, including personal loans; personal credit card bills; personal rent; personal legal fees; personal BMW car payments; office rent, ponzi-like “note repayments;” investor lawsuit settlements; legal fees and $144,773 on shopping, entertainment, food and personal care. To support his fraudulent scheme and create the impression of a successful consumer product technology company, Sayers rented office space for SAYGUS, and occupied approximately 25,990 square feet (3 floors) for approximately 10 employees. Additionally, on 26 different occasions, Sayers tweeted that the smartphone would be launching or available by a certain date, when in fact it never launched. Sayers even sent out newsletters to investors, updating them on developments. Utah Division of Securities U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins of the District of Utah made the announcement. The case was investigated jointly by the Utah Division of Securities and the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Ruth Hackford-Peer, Jacob J. Strain and Special Assistant United States Attorney Sachiko Jepson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah prosecuted the case.


title: Venezuelan Citizen Pleads Guilty to Possessing Fraudulent Green Card

body_text: MACON, Ga. – A Venezuelan citizen admitted to possessing a fraudulent green card in federal court today and will be sentenced in October. Diego Ibarra, 28, of Venezuela, pleaded guilty to two counts of possession of a fraudulent document before U.S. District Judge Tilman E. Self, III on July 15. Ibarra faces a maximum of ten years in prison to be followed by up to three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine per count. Ibarra remains in federal detention. His sentencing date is scheduled for Oct. 7. There is no parole in the federal system. According to court documents and statements referenced in court, Diego Ibarra admitted to possessing a counterfeit United States Permanent Resident Card in the name of Diego Jose Ibarra in Athens, Georgia, on Oct. 27, 2023, and Feb. 23, 2024. His sibling, Argenis Ibarra, 24, and former roommate, Rosbeli Flores-Bello, 29, both of Venezuela, are charged by federal indictment with two counts each of possession of a fraudulent document and face a maximum of ten years in prison to be followed by up to three years of supervised release and a $250,0000 fine per count. An indictment is only an allegation of criminal conduct, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law beyond a reasonable doubt. According to the filed indictment, Argenis Ibarra and Flores-Bello are alleged to have each possessed a fraudulent United States Permanent Resident Card and a counterfeit United States Social Security Card in the names of Argenis Jose Ibarra Ibarra and Rodrianny Brito Brito respectively on Feb. 23, 2024, in Athens. Argenis Ibarra had his initial appearance in Macon on July 11, and was detained. Flores-Bello’s detention hearing is scheduled for July 16, in San Antonio, Texas. A federal grand jury returned the superseding indictment charging all three co-defendants on June 11, 2024; the indictment was unsealed on July 2, 2024. The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with critical assistance from FBI, GBI, Athens-Clarke County Police Department, University of Georgia Police Department and Clarke County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mike Morrison is prosecuting the case for the Government.