title: McFarland Man Sentenced to Prison for Lying to Illegally Purchase Firearms

body_text: MADISON, WIS. – Timothy M. O’Shea, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Erik Smay, 45, McFarland, Wisconsin was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 3 months in federal prison for making a false statement during the purchase of firearms from a federally licensed firearms dealer. The prison term will be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Smay pleaded guilty to this charge on August 29, 2024. In 2022, Smay purchased several firearms from federally licensed firearms dealers in and around Madison, Wisconsin. Law enforcement found some of the firearms that Smay purchased were used by others to facilitate crimes in the area. On January 23, 2024, law enforcement interviewed Smay about his firearms purchases, and he admitted to lying to the firearms dealers when asked about his unlawful drug use and addictions. During each purchase, Smay certified his answers to the federal firearms dealers were true, correct, and complete. At sentencing, Judge Conley found a custodial sentence was necessary to disrupt Smay’s polysubstance addictions given his challenges complying with his release conditions during this case. Judge Conley acknowledged Smay’s extensive history battling addictions made him vulnerable to exploitation by those prohibited from possessing firearms. Judge Conley asserted Smay was likely trading firearms to support a drug habit, which highlighted the poignance of asking firearms purchasers about their possible unlawful drug use or addictions. The charge against Smay was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Fitchburg Police Department, McFarland Police Department, and DeForest Police Department. The ATF Madison Crime Gun Task Force also investigated the case. The task force consists of federal agents from ATF and Task Force Officers (TFOs) from local agencies including the Dane County and Clark County Sheriff’s Offices and the Fitchburg, Madison, Sun Prairie, and La Crosse Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ayala prosecuted this case.


title: Council Bluffs Man Sentenced to 84 Months for Drug Charges

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – A Council Bluffs man was sentenced today to 84 months in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance. According to public court documents, in 2023, Carlos Garcia Garcia, 41, distributed large quantities of methamphetamine in the Council Bluffs area. Drug proceeds seized during the investigation totaled $58,700, which was forfeited by the investigating agency. After completing his term of imprisonment, Garcia Garcia will be required to serve a four-year term 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 Drug Enforcement Administration. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Omaha Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Federal Prison for Ammunition Charges

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

body_text: COUNCIL BLUFFS, Iowa – An Omaha man was sentenced to two years in federal prison for possessing ammunition as a felon. According to public court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, in April 2024, law enforcement responded to a report and identified that Lual Lul Nguot, 32, struck a woman and threatened to shoot bystanders who confronted him. Law enforcement later found Nguot and he was in possession of ammunition and two fake handguns. Nguot is prohibited from possessing ammunition because he is a felon. After completing his term of imprisonment, Nguot will be required to serve a three-year term 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 Council Bluffs Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.


title: Columbus man sentenced to more than 11 years in prison for role in conspiracy involving drugs mailed from Arizona

component: USAO - Ohio, Southern

body_text: COLUMBUS, Ohio – Ontario M. Yarbrough, 26, of Columbus, was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 135 months in prison for his involvement in a narcotics conspiracy involving kilogram quantities of drugs being mailed from Arizona to Columbus. According to court documents, from April until October 2023, Yarbrough received and accepted at least five packages of narcotics. In addition to receiving five packages himself, Yarbrough tracked on the USPS website nine additional packages which were sent from Arizona to Columbus. Yarbrough maintained a property on South Burgess Avenue in Columbus where he received the drugs, re-packaged them and distributed them. One intercepted package contained approximately half a kilogram of fentanyl. When a search warrant was executed at his home, agents discovered fentanyl, cocaine and firearms. The defendant was charged by criminal complaint and arrested in October 2023. Yarbrough pleaded guilty in May 2024 to conspiring to distribute and possessing with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Kenneth L. Parker, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Lesley Allison, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Pittsburgh Division, announced the sentence imposed on Nov. 12 by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Sarah D. Morrison. Assistant United States Attorney Damoun Delaviz is representing the United States in this case. # # #


title: Palo Alto Man Convicted of Drug Offense Near Emmetsburg High School

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: David Specketer, 57, from Emmetsburg, Iowa, pled guilty in federal court in Sioux City on November 14, 2024, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine within 1,000 feet of a protected location. Specketer was previously convicted of conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine in 2013. At the plea hearing, Specketer admitted that on April 15, 2024, while living in Emmetsburg, Iowa, law enforcement attempted to arrest him at his residence for an outstanding arrest warrant. That warrant involved a pending 2022 case in Woodbury County for possession with intent to deliver methamphetamine. Specketer attempted to flee back into his residence after initial contact with law enforcement at his door. Law enforcement apprehended Specketer in his residence with approximately 1 ounce of methamphetamine. At the hearing, Specketer admitted he intended to distribute all or some of the methamphetamine to another. Specketer’s residence is within 1,000 feet of the Emmetsburg High School, a protected location. Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Specketer remains in custody of the United States Marshals Service pending sentencing. Specketer faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 80 years’ imprisonment, a $10,000,000 fine, and at least eight years of supervised release following any imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick T. Greenwood and was investigated by Emmetsburg Police Department, Palo Alto County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa DCI Laboratory, and the Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 24-3024. Follow us on X @USAO_NDIA.


title: Canadian National Convicted by Jury for Drug and Gun Charges after Interstate Pursuit

component: USAO - Nebraska

body_text: United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that a federal jury in Lincoln, Nebraska, returned a guilty verdict on November 13, 2024, against John Francis, age 23, of Canada, for one count of possession with intent to distribute MDMA and one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. The verdict subjects Francis to a potential prison term of up to life and a minimum of five years on the firearm count. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis presided over the trial and set sentencing for February 6, 2025. On March 4, 2023, a Saline County Sheriff’s Deputy performing patrol and drug interdiction duties on I-80 westbound initiated a traffic stop of a 2023 Chevy Tahoe. Instead of slowing, the Tahoe accelerated, resulting in a 30-minute pursuit over three counties for approximately 50 miles, at sustained speeds of over 100 mph. More county Sheriff’s Deputies and the Nebraska State Patrol were called in to assist with the stop due to the excessive speed of the fleeing Tahoe. Officers had to deploy three sets of spike strips (tire deflation devices) across the interstate. The spike strips ultimately caused three of the four tires on the Tahoe to fail and caused the Tahoe to come to rest in the middle of the passing lane on the interstate. Francis emerged from the Tahoe with his hands in the air and immediately laid down on his chest in the median. The driver and only occupant of the vehicle was eventually identified as John Francis, although another person’s Canadian driver’s license was found in the Tahoe. Francis had a loaded handgun in the cupholder and a duffle bag on the passenger seat. The duffle bag contained approximately 6.65 pounds of 3,4-Methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA) in crystalline form. Officers also found over $6,000 and other indicators of drug trafficking on Francis and in the Tahoe. This case was investigated by the Saline County Sheriff’s Office, Seward County Sheriff’s Office, York County Sheriff’s Office, Hamilton County Sheriff’s Office, the Nebraska State Patrol, and the Lincoln Police Department.


title: Omaha Man Sentenced for Possession of Methamphetamine as Repeat Offender

body_text: United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Zachary McElderry, age 35, of Omaha, Nebraska was sentenced November 14, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced McElderry to 250 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After McElderry’s release from prison, he will begin a 10-year term of supervised release. On February 7, 2024, a confidential informant ordered three pounds of meth from McElderry. McElderry told the informant to meet at a QuikTrip in Omaha. At QuikTrip, DEA agents drove toward McElderry’s vehicle to arrest him. McElderry avoided the DEA vehicles and escaped. He drove recklessly for more than three miles, driving the wrong way on a street and passing vehicles faster than the speed of traffic. McElderry parked his vehicle, which had a blown tire, near some apartment buildings. He was eventually arrested in a residential neighborhood. During McElderry’s drive, a backpack with eight pounds of meth was thrown from the vehicle. Another two pounds of meth was found in the vehicle. McElderry faced an enhanced mandatory minimum because of a prior conviction for possession with intent to distribute meth in Douglas County District Court. The advisory guideline sentencing range was also enhanced because of reckless endangerment during flight from law enforcement. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.


title: Federal grand jury indicts Jamestown couple on multiple drug charges

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has indicted Jensen Vazquez, 38, and Kylah Seiberg, 29, both of Jamestown NY, on charges of narcotics conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and using and maintaining a drug-involved premises. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life. Assistant U.S. Attorney Evan K. Glaberson, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, in August 2024, Vazquez, who is currently on federal supervised release, falsely informed his supervising probation officer that he was changing residences and moving into a room on Victoria Avenue in Jamestown, with another individual. Vazquez actually moved in with Seiberg. In the early morning hours of August 17, 2024, Jamestown Police received a 911 call requesting emergency assistance for a serious head injury at the Victoria Avenue residence. Paramedics found a victim laying in a pool of blood at the bottom of a staircase and appeared to have been shot. The investigation remains ongoing. The victim survived and told police that shortly before the shooting, an individual known as “Billy” purchased a firearm from Vazquez. Shortly after first responders arrived, officers found Vazquez coming down the stairs from an upper apartment. Officers also encountered Seiberg standing on the side porch. Vazquez claimed to police that his e-bike appeared to have been stolen, suggesting that the stolen e-bike was connected to the shooting. Investigators subsequently executed a search warrant at the Victoria Avenue residence, recovered the e-bike, quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl and xylazine, cocaine, drug paraphernalia, handgun magazines and ammunition, Investigators also recovered a 9mm handgun from Seiberg’s vehicle, the same caliber as the bullet that shot the victim. Vazquez and Seiberg left the residence before completion of the search warrant, hiding out in Jamestown for two days before fleeing to Florida and remaining at large until September 3, 2024. After losing the keys to Seiberg’s vehicle in Florida, they stole another vehicle, driving it back to Jamestown. On September 3, 2024, investigators received information that people were inside the Victoria Avenue residence. Officers arrived and encountered Seiberg, who was taken into custody. As they searched for Vazquez, Seiberg attempted to flee by climbing out of a second story window. When confronted by the uniformed officers, she climbed back inside the apartment and refused to go outside. Seiberg was eventually taken back into custody and Vazquez was later found hiding in the insulation in the attic. Investigators also recovered approximately 65 grams of fentanyl. Later, after complaining of stomach pain, Seiberg was treated at local hospital while in police custody, and was found to possess over seven grams of fentanyl in a plastic bag hidden inside of her body. The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson, the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarentino, and the United States Probation Office, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Timothy C. Englerth. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. # # # #


title: Falconer woman pleads guilty to sex trafficking and drug charges

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Cora Waddington, 25, of Falconer, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John L. Sinatra, Jr. to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute, and to distribute, 40 grams or more of fentanyl and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, and benefitting financially from trafficking in persons. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in prison and a maximum of life. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua A. Violanti and Maeve E. Huggins, who are handling the case, stated that between October and December 2022, Waddington conspired with Zaid Mendoza a/k/a Diamond, and Kelvin O. Thomas to conduct a sex trafficking operation utilizing two victims with drug addictions. Waddington, Mendoza, and Thomas provided shelter to the victims at a W. Main Street residence in Falconer, and provided them with food, clothing, and daily quantities of heroin and fentanyl in exchange for their performance of commercial sex acts for money. The proceeds went to Mendoza who then provided clothes, food, spending money, heroin, and methamphetamine to Waddington. The victims, through force and threats of force, performed commercial sex acts at both “in calls” at the W. Main Street residence, and “out calls.” Waddington transported the victims to “out calls.” Waddington, Mendoza, and Thomas utilized the website Skipthegames.com to entice customers for their sex trafficking scheme. Waddington was also an organizer, leader, manager, and supervisor in Mendoza’s drug trafficking operation. She provided heroin and fentanyl, and methamphetamine to the victims, as well as Mendoza’s other drug customers. In October 2022, law enforcement stopped Waddington’s vehicle, which included Mendoza as a passenger. Waddington had an outstanding warrant and was arrested. Officers recovered methamphetamine on her person, as well as a bag of fentanyl on Mendoza’s person. On December 7, 2022, a search warrant was executed at the West Main Street residence, during which cash, drug paraphernalia, a semi-automatic pistol, and multiple plastic bags of narcotics were recovered. The plea is the result of an investigation by the Jamestown Police Department Metro Drug Task Force, under the direction of Chief Timothy Jackson; the Chautauqua County Sheriff’s Office County Drug Task Force, under the direction of Sheriff James Quattrone; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia; Homeland Security Investigations, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Erin Keegan; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Bryan Miller, New York Field Division; the Drug Enforcement Administration, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Frank Tarantino III, New York Field Division; and the Town of Ellicott Police Department, under the direction of Chief William Ohnmeiss Jr. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . This investigation is also assisted by the Western New York Human Trafficking Task Force, a multi-disciplinary task force that brings law enforcement and social service agencies together to identify and investigate human trafficking utilizing a victim centered and trauma informed response, was also part of this effort. Sentencing is scheduled for May 13, 2025, before Judge Sinatra. # # # #


title: Computer Intrusion and Theft Charges Unsealed Against Two Men

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – The government unsealed charges today against two individuals for their scheme to allegedly intrude Massachusetts tax preparation firms’ computer networks to steal confidential client information and then file fraudulent tax returns seeking tax refunds to be deposited in bank accounts they controlled. Matthew A. Akande, 35, of Mexico and Nigeria, was arrested on Oct. 15, 2024 at Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom at the request of the United States. Akande was indicted by a federal grand jury in Boston on July 19, 2022, on one count of conspiracy to obtain unauthorized access to protected computers in furtherance of fraud and to commit theft of government money and money laundering, one count of wire fraud, four counts of unauthorized access to protected computers in furtherance of fraud, 13 counts of theft of government money and 14 counts of aggravated identity theft. The United States will be seeking Akande’s extradition to the United States. Kehinde H. Oyetunji, 33, of North Dakota and Nigeria, pleaded guilty in federal court in Boston on Dec. 22, 2022 to one count of conspiracy to obtain unauthorized access to protected computers in furtherance of fraud and to commit theft of government money and money laundering. Sentencing before U.S. District Judge Angel Kelley will be scheduled at a later date. Between in or about June 2016 and June 2021, Akande, Oyetunji and others are alleged to have worked together to steal money from the United States government using taxpayers’ personally identifiable information (PII) to file fraudulent tax returns in the taxpayers’ names. In addition, between in or about February 2020, the scheme involved stealing taxpayers’ PII from Massachusetts tax preparation firms via phishing attacks and computer intrusions. To carry out the scheme, Akande is alleged to have caused fraudulent phishing emails to be sent to five Massachusetts tax preparation firms. The emails purported to be from a prospective client seeking the tax preparation firms’ services but in truth were used to trick the firms into downloading remote access trojan malicious software (“RAT malware”), including RAT malware known as Warzone RAT. Akande allegedly used the RAT malware to obtain the PII and prior year tax information of the tax preparation firms’ clients, which Akande then used to cause fraudulent tax returns to be filed seeking refunds. The tax returns directed that the fraudulent tax refunds be deposited in bank accounts opened by Oyetunji and others. Once the refunds were issued, Oyetunji and others withdrew the stolen money in cash in the United States and then transferred a portion to third parties in Mexico, allegedly at Akande’s direction, while keeping a portion for themselves. In total, Akande and his coconspirators are alleged to have filed more than 1,000 fraudulent tax returns seeking over $8.1 million in fraudulent tax refunds over approximately five years. They are alleged to have successfully obtained over $1.3 million in fraudulent tax refunds. Federal authorities encourage all businesses that suspect they have been the target and/or victim of a cyberattack to file a complaint with the Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.ic3.gov . Taxpayers and tax preparation firms that suspect they have been the target and/or victim of a phishing attack can also forward phishing email(s) to phishing@irs.gov . The charge of conspiracy provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of wire fraud provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of unauthorized access to protected computers in furtherance of fraud provides for a sentence of up to five years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of theft of government money provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. The charge of aggravated identity theft provides for a mandatory sentence of two years in prison to be served consecutive to any other sentence imposed, one year of supervised release and a fine of $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Harry Chavis, Jr., Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigations in Boston made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney James R. Drabick of the Securities, Financial & Cyber Fraud Unit is prosecuting the cases. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Sebring Man Sentenced to 22 Years in Prison  for Possessing with Intent to Distribute Over 8 Kilos of Fentanyl

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – On Nov. 7, Joseph Christopher Copeland, 57, was sentenced to 264 months in federal prison, to be followed by ten years’ supervised release, by U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon, for possessing with the intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Copeland imported 8.9929 kilograms of fentanyl from Mexico to his residence in Sebring, Fla., using a vehicle with hidden compartments. The Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and Highlands County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant on Copeland’s residence, and discovered the fentanyl partially unloaded from the vehicle, along with 111.6 grams of methamphetamine, and two firearms. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; Special Agent in Charge Anthony Salisbury of the HSI, Miami Field Office, and Highlands County Sheriff Paul Blackman made the announcement. HSI Fort Pierce and Highlands County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Hudock prosecuted it. According to the DEA’s National Drug Threat Assessment , synthetic drugs, such as fentanyl, are poisoning our nation. Fentanyl has proven to be a deadly poison that does not discriminate. Its victims include every gender, race, age, and economic background, and its debilitating effects are the same across all demographics. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Even in small doses, fentanyl can be deadly. Just one fentanyl pill can kill, as noted in DEA’s One Pill Can Kill campaign. As little as two milligrams, about the size of 5 grains of salt, can be fatal. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), fentanyl and other synthetic opioids are the most common drugs involved in overdose deaths. Over 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl. The State of Florida has also seen an exponential increase in overdoses associated with fentanyl. In 2022, more than 5,622 people died from overdoses involving fentanyl and fentanyl analogs in Florida. For more information visit: https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/MEC/Publications-and-Forms/Documents/Drugs-in-Deceased-Persons/2022-Annual-Drug-Report-FINAL-(1).aspx ; https://www.cdc.gov/opioids/basics/fentanyl.html# ; and https://www.dea.gov/factsheets/fentanyl . You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 24-cr-14017. ###


title: Tewksbury Man Pleads Guilty to Sex Trafficking

body_text: BOSTON – A Tewksbury man pleaded guilty yesterday to sex trafficking and the interstate transportation of seven separate victims for the purposes of prostitution. Jermall Anderson, 45, pleaded guilty to seven counts of sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion, one count of coercion and enticement, and one count of interstate transportation for the purpose of prostitution. U.S. District Court Judge Denise J. Casper scheduled sentencing for March 12, 2025. Anderson was indicted in August 2023 , along with two co-conspirators. “This case highlights both the horrors of human trafficking and the myriad ways the opioid crisis plagues our communities,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “Jermall Anderson exploited his victims’ drug addictions to force these women to sell their bodies many times a day, with Anderson pocketing all the money. He also used physical force and threats of harm to coerce these victims and keep them in line. Our office and are partners are dedicated to fighting on behalf of sex trafficking victims and bringing their traffickers to justice.” “Anderson and his co-conspirators exploited women in the most inhumane ways possible. He tactically prowled substance abuse rehabilitation facilities to find women with vulnerabilities he could exploit for his own profit. Human traffickers like Anderson and his collaborators are predators who ensnare victims by offering safety only to create a climate of dependence and fear that keeps victims under their control,” said HSI New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol. “The survivors of Anderson’s trafficking ring have been through so much and we hope that today’s plea is a positive landmark in their healing.” From 2012 through 2016, Anderson, along with his alleged co-conspirators, used physical violence, threats and the giving and withholding of heroin and cocaine to force seven different victims to prostitute on their behalf. Anderson and his alleged co-conspirators targeted vulnerable victims, specifically those struggling from drug addiction, homelessness and lack of economic resources. Anderson recruited women struggling with drug addiction directly from detox and drug rehabilitation facilities and forced and coerced them into providing commercial sex for his financial benefit. The defendants are alleged to have trafficked these victims throughout New England, New York and New Jersey. The charges of sex trafficking by force, fraud and coercion each provide for a sentence of at least 15 years and up to life in prison, up to five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. The charges of coercion and enticement and interstate transportation for prostitution provide for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Members of the public who have questions, concerns or information regarding this case should call 617-748-3274 or contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov . Acting U.S. Attorney Levy and HSI SAC Krol made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the HSI Office in New Haven, Conn., the Lynn and Tewksbury Police Departments (Mass.) and the Hampden (Conn.) Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephen W. Hassink and Leah B. Foley of the Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case. The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Arkansas Burglary Leads Law Enforcement Officers from Arkansas to Monroe Using Firearm Tracker

body_text: MONROE, La. – United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown announced that Nocalm Robinson , 32, of Monroe, Louisiana, has been sentenced to 60 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release for illegally possessing firearms. United States District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Robinson in this case in which he was charged in an indictment in March 2024 with being a felon in possession of firearms. The charge was the result of an investigation into a burglary that took place on December 4, 2023, in East Whelen, Arkansas. The burglars stole a safe that contained a “bait gun” equipped with a tracker that could be used to track the gun. Deputies with the Clark County Sheriff’s Office in Arkansas were able to track the gun to a residence in Monroe. Law enforcement officers obtained a search warrant for the residence and learned that Robinson lived there with his wife and children. A search of the residence revealed that Robinson had four guns inside, including the Intratec 22 firearm that was equipped with a tracker. In addition, officers found a stolen Ruger 10/22, a stolen Century Arms 7.62x39 firearm, and a loaded Taurus G3 pistol inside the residence. Robinson has previous felony convictions for attempted possession of marijuana with intent to distribute in 2016 and attempted aggravated battery in 2013. As a convicted felon, Robinson knew he was prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition and pleaded guilty to the charge on July 19, 2024. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Monroe Police Department and Clark County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert F. Moody. # # #


title: Kalamazoo Man Convicted Of Fentanyl Trafficking, Distribution Of Fentanyl Causing Death

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: GRAND RAPIDS – U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that a federal jury convicted Antjuan Pierre Jackson, 39, of Kalamazoo, of distribution of fentanyl causing death and possession of 40 grams or more of fentanyl with intent to distribute. The Court will sentence Jackson on February 27, 2024. “Illicit street drugs claim more lives across Michigan and the United States than ever before,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “Only a speck of fentanyl can kill. And because drug suppliers are mixing fentanyl into almost every illicit drug, users may not even realize they’re taking a lethal dose of fentanyl that will leave them dead in minutes. My office is committed to disrupting the pipelines that distribute these poisons in our communities.” The evidence at trial demonstrated that, on November 23, 2022, Jackson sold fentanyl, a synthetic opioid up to 100 times more potent than heroin, to the victim. That fentanyl caused the victim to die from an overdose. Less than three weeks later, in December 2022, investigators found Jackson with more than 80 grams of fentanyl in his home, as well as all the hallmarks of drug trafficking, including cash, a digital scale, a cell phone, and packaging materials. The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety (KDPS) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) investigated the case with additional assistance provided by the Michigan State Police (MSP). Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie Carowan and Timothy Verhey represented the United States at trial.


title: Whitley County Man Sentenced for Threatening a Federal Law Enforcement Agent

component: USAO - Kentucky, Eastern

body_text: LONDON, Ky. – A Woodbine, Ky., man, William H. Nantz, 66, was sentenced to 63 months in prison on Friday, by U.S. District Judge Robert Wier, for retaliation against a witness. This is his second conviction involving threats to a federal law enforcement agent. On March 21, 2019, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Daniel Nantz with methamphetamine trafficking. Then, on July 24, 2019, a superseding indictment added charges against Daniel Nantz, including murder with the intent to obstruct justice related to his drug trafficking. William Nantz is the father of Daniel Nantz. Thereafter, on October 2, 2021, William Nantz made a threat against the lead case agent investigating his son’s murder case, to one of the agent’s neighbors. Ultimately, the elder Nantz pled guilty to retaliation against a witness for this initial threat; and as part of his sentencing on that initial charge, the agent submitted a victim impact statement, describing the impact the threat had on he and his family. On October 11, 2022, the elder Nantz was sentenced to 70 months in prison. The day after his sentence was imposed on that initial charge, October 12, 2022, Nantz again threatened the agent, during a recorded video jail call. This time he threatened to sexually assault and murder the agent. In the recorded call, the elder Nantz referenced his agitation with the content of the victim impact statement. And, in conversations that followed the call Nantz reinforced his threats, referencing his desire to “take care of” the agent upon his release from prison. Nantz eventually pled guilty to this second threat as well. Nantz’s 63 months sentence for this second threat will run consecutively with his previous sentence of 70 months for the first threat. Under federal law, Nantz must serve 85 percent of his prison sentences. Upon his release from prison, he will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years. “The brazen disregard for the victims and the law in this case is nothing short of appalling,” said Carlton S. Shier, IV, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky. “Just a day after receiving an initial federal prison sentence, the defendant issued more threats. This case reminds us of the dangers and sacrifices law enforcement personnel face, on a daily basis, while protecting and serving our communities. Fortunately, it now also serves as a warning to those who issue such threats: you face significant prison sentences for your conduct.” “This case highlights the dangers our public officials face every day,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Shawn Morrow of the Louisville Division. “Law enforcement, and our judicial system, must never waiver even when threatened with violence or facing danger. The ATF London office and the entire investigative team should be commended for their work seeking justice for Ms. Johnson, and for not being deterred by William Nantz’s persistent threats. We’re thankful for our investigative partners and for the United States Attorney’s Office for ensuring William Nantz was held accountable.” United States Attorney Shier and ATF SAC Morrow, jointly announced the sentencing. The investigation was conducted by the ATF. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Parman is prosecuting the case on behalf of the United States. — END —


title: Frederick County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Coercing and Enticing Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity

component: Criminal - Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section

body_text: Defendant used mobile phones to lure two victims – including while on bail pending charges related to his arrest. Baltimore , Maryland – Today, U.S. District Judge Richard D. Bennett sentenced Michael Vance Culpepper, 56, Walkersville, Maryland, to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 25 years of supervised release, for the enticement and coercion of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Judge Bennett also ordered that upon his release from prison, Culpepper must register as a sex offender in the places where he resides, is employed, and/or is enrolled as a student, pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). Erek L. Barron, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland; Inspector General Teri L. Donaldson, United States Department of Energy’s Office of the Inspector General (DOE-OIG); Special Agent in Charge Michael S. McCarthy, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Baltimore Field Office; Colonel Roland L. Butler, Jr., Superintendent, Maryland State Police (MSP); Paul Joey Kifer, Chief , Hagerstown Police Department (HPD); and State’s Attorney Anne Colt Leitess, Office of the State’s Attorney for Anne Arundel County, Maryland. According to his guilty plea, in April and May 2023, Culpepper used mobile phones and online applications to persuade, induce, entice, and coerce two victims whom he believed to be 13- and 14-year-old females to engage in sexual activity. With the first victim — an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 13-year-old girl — Culpepper used the internet and his phones to exchange sexually explicit messages and request sexually explicit images. Culpepper encouraged the victim to hide her conversations from her parents, writing, “you DEFINITELY need to delete these texts when we are done.” On May 8, 2023, Culpepper drove approximately 50 miles to meet the victim at a restaurant in Hanover, Maryland. When he arrived, he was arrested. After Culpepper was released on May 9, 2023, with the condition that he have no further contact with minors, Culpepper initiated online contact with Jane Doe 1, a 14-year-old female. Culpepper used the internet to entice Jane Doe 1 to engage in sexually explicit conversations. Culpepper also sent Jane Doe 1 sexually explicit photos of himself and requested that Jane Doe 1 produce nude images of herself to send to him. Culpepper arranged a meeting with Jane Doe 1 for the purpose of engaging in unlawful sexual activity. On May 28, 2023, Culpepper picked up Jane Doe 1 near her home, and then drove her around for approximately one hour before stopping at a park. Culpepper used ice cream, money, a hotel room, and vaping devices to entice Jane Doe 1 to engage in sexual contact. Jane Doe 1 refused, but following the meeting, Culpepper continued to use the internet to entice Jane Doe 1 to meet with him and engage in sex acts. This case is part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.justice.gov/psc and click on the “Resources” tab on the left of the page. U.S. Attorney Barron commended the DOE-OIG, HSI, ARMY CID, MSP, HPD, and the Anne Arundel County State’s Attorney’s Office for their work in the investigation. Mr. Barron also thanked Assistant U.S. Attorneys Paul E. Budlow and Reema Sood, who prosecuted the case. For more information about the Maryland U.S. Attorney’s Office, its priorities, and resources available to help the community, please visit www.justice.gov/usao-md/project-safe-childhood and https://www.justice.gov/usao-md/community-outreach . # # #


title: Dublin Man Pleads Guilty to Prescribing Pain Medication Without a License

component: USAO - Virginia, Western

body_text: ROANOKE, Va. – A Dublin, Virginia man, who continued to prescribe pain medication even after he was informed he lacked the necessary license to do so, pled guilty recently to federal charges. Ehikioya Osemobor, 47, waived his right to be indicted and pled guilty last week to a one count Information charging him with using an expired Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Number. According to court documents, the Virginia Board of Medicine issued Osemobor a license to practice medicine and surgery in error in 2009. At the time of his application for licensure, Osemobor had not yet met all the necessary requirements of the United States Medical Licensing Examination. The error was discovered in 2019. When the error was discovered, Osemobor was practicing medicine at River Valley Healthcare Associates in Dublin, Virginia. He was registered with the DEA as a practitioner with authority to dispense and distribute controlled substances. His DEA registration was issued on the premise that Osemobor had a valid license to practice medicine. The Virginia Board of Medicine notified Osemobor of the error and required him to provide evidence that he had fulfilled the necessary requirements under the United States Medical Licensing Examination. In February 2020, Osemobor notified the Board of Medicine that he was voluntarily surrendering his license to practice medicine. A consent order to that effect was entered on April 6, 2020. Osemobor continued to issue patients prescriptions for Schedule II controlled substances under his DEA registration number between April 6, 2020, and April 15, 2020. Osemobor has admitted that he knew he was not permitted to write prescriptions after voluntarily surrendering his license. U.S. Attorney Christopher R. Kavanaugh, Jarod Forget, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA’s Washington Division, and George Scavdis, Special Agent in Charge, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations, Metropolitan Washington Field Office made the announcement. The Drug Enforcement Administration and The Food and Drug Administration - Office of Inspector General, investigated the case, with assistance from the Virginia State Police and the Virginia Department of Health Professions. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kristin B. Johnson and Keith Parella are prosecuting the case.


title: Eugene Man Pleads Guilty to Three Federal Hate Crimes for Defacing Synagogue

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: EUGENE, Ore.—A Eugene man pleaded guilty to three federal hate crimes today for intentionally defacing a Eugene synagogue on multiple occasions. Adam Edward Braun, 34, pleaded guilty to two counts of intentionally defacing a synagogue and one count of attempting to deface religious property because it was a place of religious worship for Jewish people. According to court documents, between September 2023 and January 2024, Braun intentionally defaced Temple Beth Israel, a Jewish synagogue in Eugene, by repeatedly targeting the synagogue with graffiti, some of which used antisemitic symbols and phrases. Braun’s pattern of behavior culminated in the early morning hours of January 14, 2024, when he traveled to Temple Beth Israel with a hammer and prepared to swing at the glass doors of the synagogue. Braun stopped when he saw he was being recorded by a surveillance camera, and then moved to a different area of the property and used spray paint to write “White Power” in large letters on the building’s exterior. On January 31, 2024, officers from the Eugene Police Department, with assistance from the FBI, executed a state search warrant on Braun’s Eugene residence. Investigators located multiple pieces of evidence connecting Braun to the attacks on Temple Beth Israel, along with several items and writings belonging to Braun that were consistent with antisemitic beliefs and biases. Braun was initially charged by criminal complaint on March 4, 2024. Later, on May 9, 2024, Braun was charged by criminal information with five counts of defacing and attempting to deface religious property because it was a place of religious worship for Jewish people. Braun faces a maximum sentence of one year in prison, a $100,000 fine, and one year of supervised release for each count. He will be sentenced on February 18, 2025, before U.S. District Court Judge Michael J. McShane. As part of the plea agreement, Braun has agreed to pay restitution in full to the victim. This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Eugene Police Department. Gavin W. Bruce, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon, and Cameron A. Bell, Trial Attorney for the Civil Rights Division Criminal Section, are prosecuting the case.


title: Ex-Banker Pleads Guilty in $16M International Bribery and Money Laundering Scheme Involving Former Comptroller General of Ecuador

component: Criminal Division

body_text: A Miami man pleaded guilty yesterday for his role in a multimillion-dollar international bribery and money laundering scheme. According to court documents, John Christopher Polit, 43, a former banker, laundered the bribe proceeds paid for the benefit of his father, Carlos Ramon Polit Faggioni, the former Comptroller General of Ecuador, through the U.S. financial system and into various investments in South Florida. From approximately 2010 to 2015, Carlos Polit solicited and received bribe payments from Odebrecht S.A., the Brazil-based construction conglomerate, in exchange for using his official position to remove fines and not impose fines in order to benefit Odebrecht and its business in Ecuador. Additionally, Carlos Polit received a bribe from an Ecuadorian businessman in or around 2015 in exchange for assisting the businessman and his company in connection with certain contracts from the state-owned insurance company of Ecuador. Between approximately 2010 and 2018, John Polit helped his father launder these bribe proceeds. John Polit caused the bribe proceeds to “disappear” by layering transactions through Panamanian accounts of intermediary companies and using Florida companies registered in the names of certain associates. John Polit used the laundered funds from his father’s bribery scheme to purchase and renovate real estate in South Florida and elsewhere and to purchase restaurants, a dry cleaner, and other businesses. John Polit pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 30, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. On Oct. 1, Carlos Polit was sentenced to 10 years in prison following his April trial conviction. Odebrecht S.A. pleaded guilty in December 2016 to conspiring to violate the anti-bribery provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) in connection with a broader scheme to pay nearly $800 million in bribes to public officials in 12 countries, including Ecuador. Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; and Special Agent in Charge Anthony Salisbury of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement. The HSI Miami Field Office’s El Dorado Task Force is investigating this case. The FBI’s International Corruption Squad investigated the Odebrecht case and provided substantial assistance in this case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided substantial assistance. The Justice Department thanks Ecuadorian law enforcement authorities for their assistance with the investigation. Trial Attorney Jil Simon and Assistant Chief Alexander Kramer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Senior Litigation Counsel Michael N. Berger for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case. The Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting FCPA and Foreign Extortion Prevention Act matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa .


title: New York Man Sentenced for Traveling to Louisiana to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct with Minor

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that PETER NEALON (“NEALON”) , age 66, from Schenectady, New York, was sentenced today to 60 months in prison by United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion, after previously pleading guilty to interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2423(b). NEALON was also sentenced to 5 years of supervised release and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. According to court documents, beginning on or about July 17, 2023, NEALON met undercover law enforcement personnel posing as a fifteen-year-old female (FM1) on Instagram. Over the next several months, NEALON engaged FM1 in overtly sexual conversations and, on multiple occasions, transmitted images and videos depicting what he claimed to be his erect penis. Beginning in about July 2023, and continuing on multiple occasions until on or about March 27, 2024, NEALON communicated his intention to visit FM1 in Louisiana for the purpose of engaging in sex with FM1, explaining in detail the sex acts he intended to perform. In February 2024, NEALON used a messaging application to communicate with who he believed to be a fourteen-year-old female who was FM1’s friend (FM2). During conversations with FM1 and FM2, NEALON expressed an intent and expectation to engage in various forms of sexual contact with FM1 and FM2, individually and collectively. In March 2024, NEALON discussed the logistics of his trip with FM1 and, on about March 19, 2024, booked flight and hotel reservations from Albany, New York, to New Orleans, Louisiana. NEALON travelled by plane to New Orleans on about March 27, 2024, to his intent to engage in sexual acts with FM1 and FM2. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation in investigating this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Briana Williams, of the Narcotics Unit, and Jordan Ginsberg, Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, were in charge of the prosecution.


title: Justice Department Secures Agreement with Providence, Rhode Island, Public Schools to Protect Civil Rights of Immigrant Students

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: The Justice Department today announced a settlement agreement with the Providence, Rhode Island, Public School District to resolve an investigation into the district’s programs and services for new immigrant English learner students with limited or interrupted education, known in the district as “newcomers.” The Providence Public School District is the largest school district in Rhode Island, serving thousands of English learner students, including hundreds of newcomers. “New immigrant students and families bring great promise and a wealth of strengths to school communities, but they too often face great adversity in accessing educational opportunities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Schools far too frequently shut their doors to newcomers or divert them into segregated programs with few opportunities and inadequate services. Federal law is clear: all students, including immigrant students, have a right to meaningfully participate in their district’s educational programs, and the Justice Department is committed to enforcing that right in Rhode Island and across the country.” “The Providence Public School District’s failure to meet its civil rights obligations to newcomer students is unacceptable,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha for the District of Rhode Island, “particularly coming as it does in the wake of an earlier, 2018 civil rights agreement that addressed the school district’s failure to accommodate English language learners. Providence’s woeful history of half measures and consistent failures to meet the critical needs of its most vulnerable students has necessitated today’s action: a more closely targeted and stringent agreement focused on the newcomer program.” The agreement resolves the department’s investigation into complaints about civil rights violations at the district’s “Newcomer Academy,” a program intended to provide accelerated learning to newcomers aged seventeen and older. The Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island found that the district had failed to provide adequate English language instruction to over 200 students at the Newcomer Academy. Indeed, dozens of students at the Newcomer Academy signed a petition during the 2023-24 school year stating that they wanted to learn English at their school. The department also found that the district failed to staff the program with qualified, trained teachers and administrators and unnecessarily segregated newcomers, depriving them of equal opportunities to receive special education and participate in programs such as career and technical education. The district cooperated with the department during the investigation and has started to take steps to address some of the concerns identified by the department. Under the agreement, the district will ensure that all students in newcomer programs receive adequate instruction in the English language and that teachers in newcomer programs are appropriately trained and qualified. In addition, the district will provide language translation and interpretation of important school information to parents of newcomers who are not fluent in English. The district will also ensure that newcomers have equal access to specialized programs and are appropriately integrated with other English learners and native English speakers. The department conducted its investigation under the Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974 and the department’s 2018 agreement with the district (extended in 2021), addressing all of the district’s English learner services and programs. Today’s settlement, which focuses on newcomers, will supersede the previous agreement. Enforcement of the Equal Educational Opportunities Act is a top priority of the Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available at www.justice.gov/crt , and additional information about the work of the division’s Educational Opportunities Section is available at www.justice.gov/crt/combating-national-origin-discrimination-schools . Members of the public can report possible civil rights violations at civilrights.justice.gov/report/ or by emailing usari.civilrightscomplaint@usdoj.gov . Anyone in Rhode Island may also report civil rights violations directly to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island at www.justice.gov/usao-ri/civil-rights-enforcement or 401-709-5000. View the settlement summary here. View the settlement summary in Spanish here.


title: El Departamento de Justicia Logra un Acuerdo con las Escuelas Públicas de Providence, Rhode Island para Proteger los Derechos Civiles de los Estudiantes Inmigrantes

body_text: El Departamento de Justicia anunció hoy un acuerdo de conciliación con el Distrito de Escuelas Públicas de Providence, Rhode Island, para resolver una investigación sobre los programas y servicios del distrito para nuevos inmigrantes estudiantes de inglés con educación limitada o interrumpida, conocidos en el distrito como “recién llegados”. El Distrito de Escuelas Públicas de Providence es el distrito escolar más grande de Rhode Island y atiende a miles de estudiantes de inglés, incluidos cientos de recién llegados. “Los nuevos estudiantes y familias inmigrantes aportan grandes promesas y una gran cantidad de fortalezas a las comunidades escolares, pero con demasiada frecuencia enfrentan grandes adversidades para acceder a oportunidades educativas”, dijo la Fiscal General Adjunta Kristen Clarke de la División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia. “Con demasiada frecuencia las escuelas cierran sus puertas a los recién llegados o los desvían hacia programas segregados con pocas oportunidades y servicios inadecuados. La ley federal es clara: todos los estudiantes, incluidos los estudiantes inmigrantes, tienen derecho a participar significativamente en los programas educativos de su distrito, y el Departamento de Justicia está comprometido a hacer cumplir ese derecho en Rhode Island y en todo el país”. “El incumplimiento por parte del Distrito de Escuelas Públicas de Providence de sus obligaciones de derechos civiles para con los estudiantes recién llegados es inaceptable”, dijo el Fiscal Federal Zachary A. Cunha para el Distrito de Rhode Island, “particularmente a raíz de un acuerdo de derechos civiles del año 2018 que abordó la incapacidad del distrito escolar para acomodar a los estudiantes que aprenden el idioma inglés. La lamentable historia de medidas a medias y fracasos constantes de Providence para satisfacer las necesidades críticas de sus estudiantes más vulnerables ha requerido la acción de hoy: un acuerdo más estricto y centrado en el programa para recién llegados”. El acuerdo resuelve la investigación del departamento sobre quejas sobre violaciones de derechos civiles en la “Academia para recién llegados” del distrito, un programa destinado a brindar aprendizaje acelerado a recién llegados de diecisiete años o más. La División de Derechos Civiles del Departamento de Justicia y la Fiscalía Federal para el Distrito de Rhode Island determinaron que el distrito no había proporcionado una enseñanza adecuada del idioma inglés a más de 200 estudiantes de la Academia para Recién Llegados. De hecho, docenas de estudiantes de “Newcomer Academy”, como es conocida en inglés, firmaron una petición durante el año escolar 2023-24 indicando que querían aprender inglés en su escuela. El departamento también encontró que el distrito no dotó al programa de personal con maestros y administradores calificados y capacitados y segregó innecesariamente a los recién llegados, privándolos de igualdad de oportunidades para recibir educación especial y participar en programas como educación profesional y técnica. El distrito cooperó con el departamento durante la investigación y comenzó a tomar medidas para abordar algunas de las preocupaciones identificadas por el departamento. Según el acuerdo, el distrito garantizará que todos los estudiantes en programas para recién llegados reciban instrucción adecuada en el idioma inglés y que los maestros en programas para recién llegados estén capacitados y calificados adecuadamente. Además, el distrito proporcionará traducción e interpretación de información escolar importante a los padres de los recién llegados que no dominan el inglés. El distrito también garantizará que los recién llegados tengan igualdad de acceso a programas especializados y estén integrados adecuadamente con otros estudiantes de inglés y hablantes nativos de inglés. El departamento llevó a cabo su investigación bajo la Ley de Igualdad de Oportunidades Educativas de 1974 y el acuerdo del departamento de 2018 con el distrito (ampliado en 2021) que aborda todos los servicios y programas para estudiantes de inglés del distrito. El acuerdo de hoy, que se centra en los recién llegados, sustituirá al acuerdo anterior. La aplicación de la Ley de Igualdad de Oportunidades Educativas es una de las principales prioridades de la División de Derechos Civiles. Información adicional sobre la División de Derechos Civiles está disponible en la página web www.justice.gov/crt , e información adicional sobre el trabajo de la Sección de Oportunidades Educativas de la división está disponible en la pagina web www.justice.gov/crt/combating-national-origin-discrimination-schools . El público puede denunciar posibles violaciones de derechos civiles en la página web civilrights.justice.gov/report/ o enviando un correo electrónico al correo electrónico usari.civilrightscomplaint@usdoj.gov . Cualquier persona en Rhode Island también puede denunciar violaciones de derechos civiles directamente a la Oficina del Fiscal Federal para el Distrito de Rhode Island en la página web www.justice.gov/usao-ri/civil-rights-enforcement o llamando al número 401-709-5000. Vea el resumen del acuerdo aquí.


title: Country Club to Pay Over $630,000 to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Improper Receipt of Paycheck Protection Program Loan

component: USAO - Arizona

number: 2024-153_Briarwood Country Club

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Briarwood Country Club, Inc., a private country club located in Sun City has agreed to pay $631,400 to resolve allegations that it violated the False Claims Act by knowingly obtaining a loan under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) for which it was not eligible. When Congress enacted the Coronavirus, Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act, it authorized forgivable PPP loans to eligible small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses. The PPP loan program was administered by the Small Business Administration (SBA). At the time of the loan covered by this settlement, certain entities organized under section 501(c) of the Internal Revenue Code were not eligible for PPP loans, including 501(c)(7) organizations. In May 2020, Briarwood applied for a PPP loan in the amount of $431,800 and certified that it was eligible to receive the loan even though it was ineligible as a 501(c)(7) nonprofit organization. After receiving the PPP loan, Briarwood sought and received forgiveness of the loan. The United States contended that Briarwood knew or should have known it was ineligible to receive the PPP loan, and that it caused the SBA to pay lender fees to the bank that processed the loans. Briarwood will pay $631,400 to the United States to resolve these allegations. “PPP loans were an important but finite resource to help save small businesses across America during a generational pandemic,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino. “But Congress did not intend this vital resource to cover 501(c)(7) ‘social clubs’ like Briarwood. Thanks to the Small Business Administration for vindicating program rules and protecting the public fisc.” SBA’s General Counsel Therese Meers stated, “[t]he favorable settlement in this case is the product of enhanced efforts by federal agencies such as the Small Business Administration working with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, SBA’s Office of Inspector General and other Federal law enforcement agencies, as well as private individuals who uncover fraudulent conduct to recover the product of this fraud as well as penalties.” The settlement resolves claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under these provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of the recovery. The qui tam complaint was filed by Relator Wade Riner and is captioned United States ex rel. Riner v. Recreation Centers of Sun City West, et al ., No. 22-cv-01421 (D. Ariz.). Mr. Riner will receive a total share of approximately $63,400 in connection with the settlement. The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona and the SBA’s Office of General Counsel and Office of the Inspector General. The Affirmative Civil Enforcement Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Arizona handled this matter. Individuals with information regarding fraud, waste, or abuse related to federal programs should contact the relevant federal agency. A list of agencies and contact information can be found at https://www.justice.gov/usao-az/agency-links. briarwood_country_club_settlement_agreement.pdf CASE NUMBER: CV-22-01421 RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-153_Briarwood Country Club # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Idaho Man Sentenced for Computer Hacking and Extortion Scheme

body_text: NEWNAN, Ga. - Robert Purbeck, who hacked into the computer servers of the City of Newnan, a Griffin, Georgia, medical clinic, and 17 other victims across the United States, and stole personal information belonging to more than 132,000 people, has been sentenced to federal prison. Purbeck also attempted to extort a Florida orthodontist for payment in Bitcoin, threatening to disclose stolen patient records and other personal information. “Purbeck’s crimes reflect the efforts of a callous and brazen cybercriminal who not only hacked into numerous computer servers and stole sensitive personal information from both private and public actors, but also threatened to extort many of his victims and disclose their data,” said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan. “Thanks to the tireless work of law enforcement, Purbeck’s time of hiding behind a computer to steal, threaten, and intimidate is over.” “Cyber extortion is unfortunately a rapidly growing threat and highlights the ever-growing need for corporations to remain vigilant in cybersecurity efforts,” said Sean Burke, Acting Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “This sentencing is just one example of the FBI working together to hold criminals that hide behind their computers accountable, regardless of their location.” According to U.S. Attorney Buchanan, the charges, and other information presented in court: In June 2017, Purbeck purchased access to the computer server of a Griffin medical clinic on a darknet marketplace. He then used the stolen credentials to illegally access the computers of the medical clinic and removed records that contained the sensitive personal information of more than 43,000 individuals, including names, addresses, birth dates, and social security numbers. In February 2018, Purbeck purchased access to a City of Newnan Police Department server on a darknet marketplace. Purbeck used the stolen credentials to hack into the City of Newnan’s computer systems and stole police reports and other documents, including personal information of more than 14,000 individuals. Purbeck also attempted to extort a Florida orthodontist in July 2018, demanding a ransom payment in Bitcoin in return for his stolen patient files, threatening to sell the patient and personal information unless the orthodontist paid the ransom. Additionally, Purbeck threatened to sell the personal information of the orthodontist’s minor child. Purbeck harassed the orthodontist and his patients for 10 days with numerous threatening emails and text messages. On August 21, 2019, FBI special agents executed a federal search warrant at Purbeck’s home in Meridian, Idaho. During the search, agents seized multiple computers and electronic devices, which contained personal information of over 132,000 individuals, obtained through Purbeck’s numerous data breaches, including the City of Newnan, the Griffin medical clinic, and at least 17 other victims throughout the United States. Many of these victims incurred substantial expenses, including remediation costs and disruption to business operations because of Purbeck’s conduct. Robert Purbeck, 45, of Meridian, Idaho, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Timothy C. Batten, Sr. to 10 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. He was also ordered to pay restitution to his victims in the amount of $1,048,702.98. Purbeck was convicted of two counts of computer fraud and abuse on March 19, 2024,after he pleaded guilty. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Atlanta Field Office, with valuable assistance provided by the FBI Boise (Idaho) Resident Agency. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Herskowitz, Nathan Kitchens, Alex R. Sistla, and Trial Attorney Brian Mund of the U.S. Department of Justice Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) prosecuted the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho also provided valuable assistance in this case. For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at USAGAN.PressEmails@usdoj.gov or (404) 581-6016. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga .


body_text: MIAMI — A Miami man pleaded guilty yesterday for his role in a multimillion-dollar international bribery and money laundering scheme. According to court documents, John Christopher Polit, 43, a former banker, laundered the bribe proceeds paid for the benefit of his father, Carlos Ramon Polit Faggioni, the former Comptroller General of Ecuador, through the U.S. financial system and into various investments in South Florida. From approximately 2010 to 2015, Carlos Polit solicited and received bribe payments from Odebrecht S.A., the Brazil-based construction conglomerate, in exchange for using his official position to remove fines and not impose fines in order to benefit Odebrecht and its business in Ecuador. Additionally, Carlos Polit received a bribe from an Ecuadorian businessman in or around 2015 in exchange for assisting the businessman and his company in connection with certain contracts from the state-owned insurance company of Ecuador. Between approximately 2010 and 2018, John Polit helped his father launder these bribe proceeds. John Polit caused the bribe proceeds to “disappear” by layering transactions through Panamanian accounts of intermediary companies and using Florida companies registered in the names of certain associates. John Polit used the laundered funds from his father’s bribery scheme to purchase and renovate real estate in South Florida and elsewhere and to purchase restaurants, a dry cleaner, and other businesses. John Polit pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 30, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. On Oct. 1, Carlos Polit was sentenced to 10 years in prison following his April trial conviction. Odebrecht S.A. pleaded guilty in December 2016 to conspiring to violate the anti-bribery provisions of the Foreign Corrupt Practices Act (FCPA) in connection with a broader scheme to pay nearly $800 million in bribes to public officials in 12 countries, including Ecuador. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida; Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; and Special Agent in Charge Anthony Salisbury of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement. The HSI Miami Field Office’s El Dorado Task Force is investigating this case. The FBI’s International Corruption Squad investigated the Odebrecht case and provided substantial assistance in this case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs also provided substantial assistance. The Justice Department thanks Ecuadorian law enforcement authorities for their assistance with the investigation. Senior Litigation Counsel Michael N. Berger for the Southern District of Florida and Trial Attorney Jil Simon and Assistant Chief Alexander Kramer of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section are prosecuting the case. The Fraud Section is responsible for investigating and prosecuting FCPA and Foreign Extortion Prevention Act matters. Additional information about the Justice Department’s FCPA enforcement efforts can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal/fraud/fcpa . You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Florida at www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl . Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov , under case number 24-cr-20390. ###


title: New Orleans Man Sentenced for Federal Gun Control and Controlled Substances Act Violations

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – TRAVIS JACKSON (“JACKSON”) , age 34, a resident of New Orleans, was sentenced on November 12, 2024, by United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion, for conspiring to distribute, and possess with the intent to distribute, fentanyl and, being a felon in possession of a gun, announced U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans. According to court records, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), made several controlled purchases of drugs from JACKSON and his co-defendant. The FBI then conducted wire intercepts of two phones belonging to the co-defendant. During the wiretaps, the FBI heard multiple calls related to drug trafficking, including calls with buyers and larger-scale dealers, as well as calls warning other dealers of police activity. The FBI later executed search warrants, arresting the co-defendant with a gun and fentanyl and, also, arresting JACKSON with a gun. JACKSON’s prior felony convictions prohibited him from possessing a firearm. Judge Papillion sentenced JACKSON to 60 months imprisonment on each count to run concurrently, 4 years of supervised release on the drug count and 3 years of supervised release on the felon in possession of a firearm count, and a mandatory special assessment fee of $200. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the New Orleans Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David Haller, Senior Litigation Counsel and PSN Coordinator.


title: Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to Federal Prison for Attempted Enticement of a Minor, Child Pornography Charges

component: USAO - Rhode Island

body_text: PROVIDENCE, RI – A registered sex offender has been sentenced to ten years in federal prison, having previously pleaded guilty to charges of attempted inducement of a minor to engage in illicit sexual activity, possession with intent to view child pornography, and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha. Mathew Hoard, 40, of Smithfield, was sentenced today by U.S. District Court Judge Mary S. McElroy to 120 months in federal prison to be followed by eight years of federal supervised release. In July 2020, Hoard began communicating online and by text messaging with a person he believed to be a 14-year-old girl, but who was in fact an undercover Newport Police Department Detective. According to information presented to the court, during those communications, which lasted for more than two months, Hoard sent a sexually explicit image and sexually graphic messages, repeatedly requested that the “girl” send nude pictures of herself to Hoard. He also attempted to arrange a meeting to engage in sex. In February 2020, while conducting an unrelated investigation, the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force learned from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that an individual had uploaded child pornography to a social media platform. Members of the Task Force later determined that the upload came from an IP address utilized by Mathew Hoard. On September 29, 2020, members of the ICAC Task Force executed a court-authorized search of Hoard’s residence and seized a cell phone and a laptop computer. The devices were found to contain videos and images of child pornography. Among the images was an image exchanged between Hoard and the undercover Newport Police Department detective. In 2011, Hoard was convicted in the State of Rhode Island for possession of child pornography, and as a result of that conviction, he was required to register as a sex offender. This Project Safe Childhood case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Denise M. Barton and Julie M. White. The matter was investigated by the Rhode Island State Police Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Newport Police Department, and Homeland Security Investigations. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc ###


title: Former IRS Employee Pleads Guilty to Fraudulent Tax Returns

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A former IRS employee pleaded guilty in federal court today to preparing fraudulent tax returns that illegally claimed more than $200,000 in refunds for her clients. Sandra D. Mondaine, 64, of Grandview, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to one count of aiding and abetting in the preparation and filing of false tax returns. Mondaine previously worked for the IRS as a contact representative before retiring. By pleading guilty today, Mondaine admitted that she prepared federal income tax returns for clients that contained false and fraudulent claims. The indictment charged her with assisting at least 11 individuals to file at least 39 false and fraudulent income tax returns for the tax years 2019 through 2021. The tax loss associated with those false returns is approximately $237,329. The parties do not agree on the total tax loss. By including fraudulent items on her clients’ tax returns, Mondaine was able to manufacture substantial refunds to her clients that they would not have been entitled to if the returns had been accurately prepared. Mondaine charged her clients a fee, which was either a fixed dollar amount and/or a percentage of the tax refund. Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, Mondaine must pay restitution to the Internal Revenue Service, as determined by the court, representing the total tax loss associated with the conduct to which she is pleading guilty. Mondaine also consents to a permanent injunction in a separate civil action, under which she will be permanently enjoined from preparing, assisting in, directing or supervising the preparation or filing of federal tax returns for any person or entity other than herself. Under federal statutes, Mondaine is subject to a sentence of up to three years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. It was investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation.


title: Department of Justice Secures Settlement with Providence Public Schools to Protect Civil Rights of Immigrant Students

body_text: PROVIDENCE, RI – The United States has reached a settlement agreement with the Providence Public School District to resolve an investigation into the district’s programs and services for new immigrant English learner students with limited or interrupted education, known in the district as “newcomers,” United States Attorney for the District of Rhode Island Zachary A. Cunha announced today. The Providence Public School District is the largest school district in Rhode Island, serving thousands of English learner students, including hundreds of newcomers. Earlier this year, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island received multiple complaints about civil rights violations at Providence’s “Newcomer Academy,” a program intended to provide accelerated learning to newcomers ages seventeen and older. A Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division and U.S. Attorney’s Office investigation found that Providence schools failed to provide adequate English language development instruction to over 200 students participating in the Newcomer Academy. Indeed, dozens of students at the Newcomer Academy signed a petition during the 2023-24 school year stating that they wanted to learn English at their school. The Department also found that Providence failed to staff the program with trained and qualified staff and administrators, unnecessarily segregated newcomers, and deprived them of equal opportunities to participate in specialized programs, such as special education and career and technical education. “The Providence Public School District’s failure to meet its civil rights obligations to newcomer students is unacceptable,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Cunha for the District of Rhode Island, “particularly coming as it does in the wake of an earlier, 2018 civil rights agreement that addressed the school district’s failure to accommodate English language learners. Providence’s woeful history of half measures and consistent failures to meet the critical needs of its most vulnerable students has necessitated today’s action: a more closely targeted and stringent agreement focused on the newcomer program. ” “New immigrant students and families bring great promise and a wealth of strengths to school communities, but they too often face great adversity in accessing educational opportunities,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Schools far too frequently shut their doors to newcomers or divert them into segregated programs with few opportunities and inadequate services. Federal law is clear: all students, including immigrant students, have a right to meaningfully participate in their district’s educational programs, and the Justice Department is committed to enforcing that right in Rhode Island and across the country.” The district cooperated with the Department during the investigation and has started to take steps to address some of the concerns identified by the Department. Under the agreement, the district will ensure that all students in newcomer programs receive adequate instruction in the English language, and that teachers in newcomer programs are appropriately trained and qualified. In addition, the district will take steps to provide language translation and interpretation of important school information to parents of newcomers who are not fluent in English. And the district will ensure that newcomers have equal access to specialized programs, and are appropriately integrated with other English learners, and native English speakers. The Department of Justice conducted its investigation under the Equal Educational Opportunities Act of 1974, and the Department’s 2018 agreement with the district (extended in 2021) addressing all of the district’s English learner services and programs. Today’s settlement, which focuses on newcomers, will supersede the previous agreement. The matter was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy R. Romero of the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island and Trial Attorneys Ajay Saini and Laura Tayloe of the Education Opportunities Section, Civil Rights Division of the Department of Justice. Enforcement of the Equal Educational Opportunities Act is a top priority of the Civil Rights Division. Additional information about the Civil Rights Division is available at www.justice.gov/crt , and additional information about the work of the division’s Educational Opportunities Section is available at www.justice.gov/crt/combating-national-origin-discrimination-schools . Members of the public can report possible civil rights violations at civilrights.justice.gov/report/ or by emailing usari.civilrightscomplaint@usdoj.gov . Anyone in Rhode Island may also report civil rights violations directly to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island at https://www.justice.gov/usao-ri/civil-rights-enforcement or 401-709-5000. View a copy of the settlement agreement here . View the settlement summary here . ###


title: Missouri Man Sentenced to 75 Months in Prison for Possessing Child Pornography

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig on Wednesday sentenced a man who admitted possessing child pornography and participating in online discussions about the rape of children to 75 months in prison. Stephen E.R. Marez, 32, of St. Francois County, was also ordered to pay $9,000 in restitution. Marez pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis in August to one count of receiving child pornography. He admitted exchanging child pornography and discussing the rape of children with two people online. The Indiana State Police were investigating one of the men participating in those discussions, who led them to Marez. On July 14, 2023, a Missouri State Highway Patrol trooper conducted a traffic stop and seized Marez’ cell phone, which contained child sexual abuse material. A July 19, 2023, court-approved search of his home recovered electronic devices that contained more than 2,000 files containing child pornography, including 249 images and 137 videos depicting minors who have been identified by law enforcement, his plea agreement says. The Missouri State Highway Patrol, the Missouri State Technical Assistance Team, the St. Francois County Sheriff’s Office, the Farmington Police Department, the Park Hills Police Department and the Indiana State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Houston dental clinic employee imprisoned for role in $6M bribery scheme

component: USAO - Texas, Southern

body_text: HOUSTON – A 54-year-old man has been sentenced following his conviction for conspiring to pay and receive health care kickbacks and payment of kickbacks to marketers, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. A federal jury deliberated for an hour following a three-day trial before finding Ifeanyi Ozoh guilty on all counts Feb. 14. U.S. District Chief Judge Randy Crane has now ordered Ozoh to serve 72 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. Ozoh was also ordered to pay restitution to Medicaid in the amount of $4.9 million. At the hearing, the court heard Ozoh was integral to the kickback scheme as he bribed marketers and parents to bring their Medicaid-insured children to a sham dental clinic. In handing down the sentence, the court noted the overwhelming evidence of Ozoh’s guilt presented at trial. Ozoh worked at a local dental clinic known as Floss Family Dentalcare Center from January 2020 to February 2021. At the time of trial, the jury heard how Ozoh paid marketers $20 to $100 for each Medicaid-insured child referred to Floss. The marketers testified that Ozoh secretly paid them in cash and out of sight of other witnesses, sometimes putting their illegal kickback payments on top of a vending machine down the hall from the clinic. One clinic manager testified that she repeatedly warned Ozoh that paying marketers was illegal. The jury also heard that Ozoh paid out over $163,000 in bribes to marketers and received bonuses for reaching a quota of patients. From 2020 to 2021, Floss billed Medicaid over $6 million. Floss received over $4 million on those claims, most of which were predicated on a kickback paid to marketers and for dental services that were not provided. During the trial, a representative testified that Medicaid prohibits the payment of kickbacks for referrals of medical services. Ozoh was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future. FBI, Texas Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and the Department of Health and Human Services - Office of Inspector General conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kathryn Olson and Lauren Valenti prosecuted the case.


title: California Teenager Pleads Guilty in Florida to Making Hundreds of ‘Swatting’ Calls Across the United States

body_text: Alan W. Filion, 18, of Lancaster, California, pleaded guilty today to four counts of making interstate threats to injure the person of another. Filion faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison on each count. Filion is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 11, 2025. “This prosecution and today’s guilty plea reaffirm the Justice Department’s commitment to using all tools to hold accountable every individual who endangers our communities through swatting and hoax threats,” said Deputy Attorney General Lisa Monaco. “For well over a year, Alan Filion targeted religious institutions, schools, government officials, and other innocent victims with hundreds of false threats of imminent mass shootings, bombings and other violent crimes. He caused profound fear and chaos and will now face the consequences of his actions.” “Alan Filion not only intended to cause as much harm as possible, but he also attempted to profit from these criminal activities by offering swatting-for-a-fee services,” said FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate. “Swatting poses severe danger to first responders and victims, wastes significant time and resources, and creates fear in communities. The FBI will continue to work with partners to aggressively investigate and hold accountable anyone who engages in these activities." According to the plea agreement, from approximately August 2022 to January 2024, Filion made more than 375 swatting and threat calls, including calls in which he claimed to have planted bombs in the targeted locations or threatened to detonate bombs and/or conduct mass shootings at those locations. He targeted religious institutions, high schools, colleges and universities, government officials, and numerous individuals across the United States. Filion was 16 at the time he placed the majority of the calls. Filion intended for his calls to cause large-scale deployment of police and emergency-services units to the targeted locations. During these calls, he provided information to law enforcement and emergency services agencies that he knew to be false, such as false names, false claims that he and others had placed explosives in particular locations, false claims that he and others possessed dangerous weapons, including firearms and explosives, and false claims that he and/or other individuals had committed, or intended to imminently commit, violent crimes. During the time that dispatchers spent on the phone with Filion, they were unavailable to respond to other emergencies. Additionally, in response to many of his calls, armed law enforcement officers were dispatched to the targeted addresses, and likewise were made unavailable to respond to other emergencies. In some instances, armed law enforcement officers approached and entered targeted residences with their weapons drawn and detained individuals who occupied the residences. In a post on Jan. 20, 2023, Filion claimed that when he swats someone, he “usually get[s] the cops to drag the victim and their families out of the house, cuff them and search the house for dead bodies.” According to court documents, Filion became a serial swatter for both profit and recreation. He claimed in a Jan. 19, 2023, online post that his “first” swatting was like “2 to 3 years ago” and that “6-9 months ago [he] decided to turn it into a business. . .” On several occasions, Filion placed posts on social-media channels advertising his services and swatting-for-a-fee structure. On Jan. 18, Filion, then 17-years-old, was arrested in California on Florida state charges arising from a May 2023 threat he made to a religious institution in Sanford, Florida. In that threat, he claimed to have an illegally modified AR-15, a Glock 17 pistol, pipe bombs, and Molotov cocktails. He said that he was going to imminently “commit a mass shooting” and “kill everyone” he saw. Filion pleaded guilty today in federal court to making that threat. Filion’s federal charges were brought under the Federal Juvenile Justice & Delinquency Prevention Act (JDA). As noted in the criminal information filed on Oct. 21, Filion was 17 when the instant charges were filed against him. Filion has remained in custody since his arrest on state charges in January. Filion also pleaded guilty to making three other threatening calls – an October 2022 call to a public high school in the Western District of Washington, in which he threatened to commit a mass shooting and claimed to have planted bombs throughout the school; a May 2023 call to a Historically Black College & University in the Northern District of Florida, in which he claimed to have placed bombs in the walls and ceilings of campus housing that would detonate in about an hour; and a July 2023 call to a local police-department dispatch number in the Western District of Texas, in which he falsely identified himself as a senior federal law enforcement officer, provided the officer’s residential address to the dispatcher, claimed to have killed his (federal officer’s) mother, and threatened to kill any responding police officers. The FBI and U.S. Secret Service are investigating the case. Valuable assistance was provided by the Seminole County (Florida) Sheriff’s Office; the Anacortes (Washington) Police Department; the Florida Department of Law Enforcement; the California Department of Justice; the Los Angeles County (California) Sheriff’s Office; and the Volusia County (Florida) Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Cherie L. Krigsman and Kara Wick for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Jacob Warren of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case, with valuable assistance from the State Attorney’s Office for Seminole County, Florida, 18th Judicial Circuit, and the U.S. Attorneys Offices for the Western District of Washington, Northern District of Florida, Western District of Texas, and District of Columbia.