title: Previously Convicted Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Videos of Child Pornography

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: WASHINGTON – Bayo Thomas Bakare, 42, a previously convicted sex offender, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison for possessing six videos of child sexual abuse materials on his mobile phone in September 2023 and maintaining additional child exploitation videos on an online storage application. At the time of the offense, Bakare was on supervised release for a previous conviction of distributing child pornography. The sentencing was announced U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves and FBI Special Agent in Charge David J. Scott of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division. Bakare pleaded guilty February 8, 2024, to a charge of access with intent to view child pornography. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Trevor N. McFadden ordered Bakare to serve 15 years of supervised release. According to court documents, on April 15, 2023, law enforcement agencies conducted compliance checks of sex offenders registered within Washington, D.C. Bakare, who lived on the 3200 block of 8 th Street, NE, was a registered sex offender in the District due to a 2016 conviction on a charge of distribution of child pornography for which he was sentenced to 60 months in prison and 10 years of supervised release. Bakare met the law enforcement agents at his front door. The group was comprised of members of the U.S. Probation Office (USPO), United States Marshals Service (USMS), Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency (CSOSA), and a member of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force (CEHTTF). Bakare indicated that he needed to retrieve clothes from his bedroom. The USPO member followed Bakare into his bedroom. The USPO member spotted a Galaxy A11 cell phone, and an Apple iPhone 13 Pro Max plugged into a wall charger. Bakare said that the Galaxy phone was being monitored by USPO. Bakare reported that the Apple iPhone was not monitored. Because Bakare was on supervised release, he was forbidden to have a phone that was not monitored by the USPO. The iPhone was seized. The USPO subjected the iPhone to a forensic extraction which revealed six videos depicting child exploitation and an additional 30 video depicting likely child exploitation stored on the Discord application. This case was investigated by the U.S. Probation Office, U.S. Marshals Service, Court Services and Offender Supervision Agency, and the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Rachel Foreman. 23cr385


title: Charlotte Man With Federal Armed Bank Robbery Conviction Is Sentenced To Prison For Possession Of A Firearm By A Felon

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Jamell Tremaine Robinson, 42, of Charlotte, was sentenced today to 66 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Bennie Mims, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Charlotte Field Division, and Colonel Freddy L. Johnson, Jr., Commander of the North Carolina State Highway Patrol, join U.S. Attorney King in making today’s announcement. According to court documents and court proceedings, on October 13, 2021, around 11:30 p.m., a trooper with the North Carolina State Highway Patrol was operating stationary radar in the median of Interstate 40 in Catawba County. The trooper observed a gray Chevrolet Impala traveling at a high speed on the interstate and attempted to conduct a traffic stop. The driver of the vehicle did not comply and sped away before losing control of the vehicle and crashing off the roadway in a wooded area. The trooper approached the vehicle and the driver was taken into custody. The trooper asked the driver for his identification and vehicle registration and the driver indicated the documents were inside the vehicle. When the trooper went to the wrecked vehicle to look for the license and registration, he observed a handgun laying beside the gas pedal on the floorboard of the vehicle. The handgun was loaded with one round in the chamber. According to court records, the driver was identified as Robinson. The trooper conducted a criminal history of Robinson and discovered that he had a prior conviction for armed bank robbery in the Western District of North Carolina. Court documents show that after the vehicle was removed from the wooded area, troopers continued a search of the vehicle. During the search, troopers recovered an AR-556 rifle from the trunk of the vehicle. The rifle was loaded with one bullet in the chamber. A clear plastic bag containing 52 rounds of ammunition was also located inside the trunk next to the firearm. As a convicted felon, Robinson is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. On July 21, 2022, Robinson pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility. The ATF and the North Carolina State Highway Patrol investigated the case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA) William Wiseman of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte prosecuted the case. Mr. Wiseman is a state prosecutor with the office of the 26 th Prosecutorial District and was assigned by District Attorney Spencer Merriweather to serve as a SAUSA with the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte. Mr. Wiseman is sworn in both state and federal courts. The SAUSA position is a reflection of the partnership between the office of the 26 th Prosecutorial District and the United States Attorney’s Office.


title: Superseding Indictment Adds Three Defendants and New Charges in “Operation SLO Ride”

component: USAO - California, Eastern

body_text: FRESNO, Calif. — A federal grand jury returned a 53-count superseding indictment today adding new charges for Alberto “Beto” Alvarado, Freddy Alvarado, Yerlly Vega, and Roberto Soria-Cuevas, and newly charging Tulare County residents Manuel Diaz, Daniel Alvarado, and Rafael Alcala Jr, for their participation in the drug trafficking and money laundering conspiracies, U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced. The initial indictment in the case charged 28 individuals . The addition of Manual Diaz, Daniel Alvarado, and Rafael Alcala Jr. brings the total number now charged in the case to 31. According to court documents, beginning in July 2023, investigators gathered evidence regarding individuals involved in the distribution of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and other narcotics in Tulare County using investigative tools that included confidential sources, surveillance, and wiretaps. Operation SLO Ride ultimately resulted in the dismantling of a criminal organization operating in Tulare County. In March 2024, law enforcement executed numerous search and arrest warrants in a coordinated takedown. In the course of the operation, law enforcement seized more than 936 pounds of methamphetamine, 8.6 pounds of cocaine, 5.5 pounds of heroin, 5.5 pounds of fentanyl, more than $600,000 in currency, and 50 firearms. The 31 individuals now stand charged with various drug trafficking, money laundering, continuing criminal enterprise, and illegal possession of firearms offenses. The superseding indictment adds charges against Alberto “Beto” Alvarado for operating a continuing criminal enterprise and conspiring to commit money laundering. If convicted, Alberto “Beto” Alvarado faces a mandatory minimum of life in prison. Freddy Alvarado is additionally charged with conspiring to commit money laundering and international money laundering. Vega is additionally charged with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. Soria-Cuevas is also now charged with conspiring to commit money laundering. Diaz, Alcala, and Daniel Alvarado are each newly charged with conspiring to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and conspiring to commit money laundering. According to court documents, Alberto Alvarado, Freddy Alvarado, Daniel Alvarado, Diaz, Vega, Alcala, and Soria-Cuevas conspired to launder the proceeds of narcotics trafficking by transporting and transferring the proceeds from the United States to Mexico. On April 29, 2024, Francisco Garcia, 28, of Tulare, pleaded guilty to one count of possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Sentencing is scheduled to occur Sept. 30, 2024. This case is the product of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Tulare County Sheriff’s Office, Tulare County Tactical Narcotics Team, which is a part of Central Valley California HIDTA, the Tulare Police Department, the Visalia Police Department, the Kings County Sheriff’s Office, the Porterville Police Department, the Woodlake Police Department, the Clovis Police Department, the San Luis Obispo County Sheriff’s Office, the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office, the California Highway Patrol, the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, and the Tulare County District Attorney. Assistant U.S. Attorney Antonio Pataca is prosecuting the case. If convicted, the defendants face a range of sentences from 10 years in prison to life in prison, and some face mandatory minimum sentences of five and 10 years for drug trafficking offenses. Any sentence, however, would be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables. The charges are only allegations; the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. The case was investigated under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF). OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. For more information about Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces, please visit Justice.gov/OCDETF.


title: Brookings, South Dakota Man Sentenced for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute

body_text: United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Harley Degroat, 45, of Brookings, South Dakota, was sentenced on July 31, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Degroat to 192 months’ imprisonment with a 10-year term of supervised release to follow. There is no parole in the federal system. Degroat was found to be a career offender under federal law, and his sentence was enhanced due to a 2019 conviction for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the District of Wyoming. On October 3, 2020, a Merrick County Sheriff’s deputy stopped a driver for speeding along Highway 30 in Merrick County. Degroat was driving and a female was in the front passenger seat. The deputy learned that Degroat had an active arrest warrant out of Pottawattamie County, Iowa for violating probation. The deputy arrested Degroat on the warrant. Degroat and his passenger gave conflicting information about their travel plans. A drug dog alerted and indicated to the presence of narcotics in Degroat’s car. Investigators searched the car, locating a black case near the engine compartment containing bags of meth, heroin, THC cartridges, marijuana, and a black Ruger .380 firearm. An analyst from the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab confirmed the presence of about three pounds of meth and a half-ounce of heroin. This case was investigated by the Merrick County Sheriff’s Office and the Trident Drug Task Force, which is made up of officers from the Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff, Hastings Police Department, Adams County Sheriff, Kearney Police Department, Buffalo County Sheriff, Nebraska State Patrol, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.


title: Former Ericson State Bank President Sentenced for Bank Fraud

body_text: United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jackie Poulsen, aka Jack Poulsen, 71, of Ericson, Nebraska, was sentenced on August 1, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for bank fraud. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Poulsen to 18 months’ imprisonment with 5 years of supervised release to follow. There is no parole in the federal system. Poulsen was additionally ordered to pay a $815,000 in restitution. Poulsen was the President of Ericson State Bank (ESB) from June of 2010 until September of 2019. He was additionally on the Board of Directors for the bank. In his role as President of ESB, he was responsible for overseeing all ESB’s affairs and managing ESB’s day-to-day operations. ESB, like any other bank in Nebraska, had to undergo regular examinations conducted by the Nebraska Department of Banking and Finance (NDBF). One such examination occurred in October of 2017, which ESB passed. The next examination occurred in April of 2019. The 2019 examination revealed that ESB’s condition had significantly deteriorated since the 2017 examination. NDBF indicated in a report that this deterioration was “due in large part to [ESB] being operated without regard for laws, regulations, prudent banking policies, and practices.” During the investigation that followed the 2019 examination, the NDBF discovered that there were significant violations of the Nebraska statutory lending limits and that Poulsen had personally made, or was directly responsible for, many of the loans, lines of credit, and coverups of overdrafts that were in violation of the law, and which were adversely affecting the safety and soundness of ESB. A substantial number of the violations involved accounts and loans held by a relative of Poulsen’s and the relative’s business-related entities. NDBF examiners determined that a specific loan to Poulsen’s relative had been continuously more than the statutory lending limit since November 2017, or approximately one month after the 2017 Examination. NDBF examiners further determined that since May 29, 2019, Poulsen made multiple advances to the relative and charged off a portion of the borrowings without completing the appropriate paperwork or seeking approval from the Board or loan committee. NDBF examiners discovered that some lending limit violations had substantially increased in size through increases in operating lines of credit, additional advances, and/or payment of overdrafts since the May 29, 2019, meeting. NDBF examiners determined that as of August 26, 2019, maturity dates on loans had been extended multiple times without formal documentation; borrowers’ financial information was inadequate; collateral for loans was either non-existent or poorly documented and managed, and deposit accounts, including those held by his relative, were frequently and substantially overdrawn. Poulsen’s scheme to defraud continued until September of 2019, when Poulsen was removed from his positions of authority with ESB based on NDBF’s findings. Poulsen’s license was also revoked. As of December 31, 2019, ESB had total assets of approximately $110,879,000. However, on February 14, 2020, NDBF closed ESB and appointed the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation (“FDIC”), as liquidator and receiver of ESB. Mark Quandahl, NDBF Director issued a statement regarding the failure of ESB which stated, “The failure of Ericson State Bank resulted primarily from large out-of-territory commercial loan losses and poor management practices which led to a deterioration of the bank’s capital. When the capital was not replenished the Department was left with no option but to place the insolvent institution into receivership.” The FDIC entered into a purchase and assumption agreement with Farmers and Merchants Bank, Milford, NE, in which the purchasing bank assumed all customer deposits of ESB. At the time of ESB’s failure, ESB was a state chartered financial institution regulated and examined by the NDBF and it was determined that a loss of $815,000 was attributable to the insider-related loans which were subject to Poulsen’s scheme. The investigation and subsequent prosecution of this matter was the result of the work of multiple agencies in conjunction with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District od Nebraska. Following today’s sentencing the following comments were made: “The people of Nebraska expect their monies to be safe when they choose to place their trust in local banks.” Said United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr. “No bank officials should be permitted to abuse that trust for the sake of their and their family’s personal gain. The United States Attorney’s Office thanks all law enforcement agencies who worked diligently on the thorough investigation of this case.” FBI Omaha Special Agent in Charge Eugene Kowel said, “Not only did Jack Poulsen’s financial scheme of insider-related loans lead to his sentence to federal prison, it also led to the collapse of a bank that had served rural Nebraska for 60 years. The FBI is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to hold accountable those who exploit their positions of trust to defraud financial institutions.” “Jack Poulsen exploited his position as a bank executive to commit fraud that ultimately led to Ericson State Bank’s failure,” said Jon Ellwanger, Special Agent in Charge, Western Region, Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. “His sentencing sends a clear message that bank executives who commit fraud will be brought to justice for their actions. We are proud to have worked with our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to hold Mr. Poulsen accountable for his crimes.” “As both bank president and board member, the defendant had a duty to conduct business honestly but instead abused that trust and committed insider fraud, contributing to the failure of a bank that had been part of the Federal Home Loan Bank System for more than 60 years,” said Korey Brinkman, Special-Agent-in-Charge of FHFA-OIG’s Midwest Region. “We will continue to vigorously investigate criminal offenses involving frauds that impact the integrity, safety, and soundness of Federal Home Loan Banks and member banks. We are proud to partner with our colleagues and the United States Attorney’s Office with this investigation.” “Today's sentencing holds the defendant accountable for defrauding Ericson State Bank by misusing his position as president of the bank to conceal the true financial condition of these loans from the institution and its Board of Directors,” said Special Agent in Charge Justin R. Bundy of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG), Kansas City Region. “The FDIC OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring to justice bank insiders who violate their positions of trust and commit fraudulent acts that threaten to undermine the integrity of our Nation’s financial institutions.” This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General, Federal Reserve Board – Office of Inspector General, and the Federal Bureau of Investigations.


title: Lady Lake Man Sentenced To More Than 11 Years In Prison For Possession Of Child Sexual Abuse Material

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Ocala, FL – Senior United States District Judge Gregory A. Presnell has sentenced Aaron Taylor Lemire (29, Lady Lake) to 11 years and 3 months in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for possession of child sexual abuse material. Lemire entered a guilty plea on February 6, 2024. According to court documents, after an undercover detective received child sexual abuse images from Lemire, agents executed a search warrant on Lemire’s residence and seized his electronic devices. A forensic review of those devices revealed more than 100 files of child sexual abuse material depicting the abuse of children as young as six years old. This case was investigated by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Crockett. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’ Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Fort Dodge Woman Pleads Guilty to Meth Conspiracy Charges

component: USAO - Iowa, Northern

body_text: A woman who conspired to distribute methamphetamine pled guilty July 31, 2024, in federal court in Sioux City. Amanda Johnson, f/k/a Amanda Adams, 35, from Fort Dodge, Iowa, was convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine. In 2020, Johnson was convicted in federal court of same conduct - conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute and aiding and abetting another in the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. At the plea hearing, Johnson admitted her involvement in a conspiracy that distributed more than 150 grams of methamphetamine in the Fort Dodge area for six months in 2023. On November 15, 2023, Johnson and another distributed about ¼ pound methamphetamine in a controlled drug purchase transaction in Waterloo, Iowa. On December 4, 2023, Johnson made an agreement to distribute ¼ pound of methamphetamine to an undercover agent, distributed 2 grams of methamphetamine, then fled. Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. Johnson remains in custody of the United States Marshal pending sentencing. On the conspiracy conviction Johnson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $20,000,000 fine, and at least ten years of supervised release following any imprisonment. On the distribution conviction Johnson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a $8,000,000 fine, and at least eight years of supervised release following any imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement, the Iowa DCI Laboratory, Fort Dodge Iowa Police Department, Webster County Sheriff’s Office, and the Waterloo, Iowa, based Tri-County Drug Task Force. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 24-3005. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Sioux City Man Pleads Guilty to Possession  with Intent to Distribute Drugs

body_text: Shannon Ivory, 43, from Sioux City, Iowa, pled guilty July 31, 2024, in federal court, to four counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances. At the plea hearing, evidence showed that on March 20, 2023, Ivory was arrested on state of Iowa charges. During the arrest multiple types of illegal drugs packaged in separate bags were found on Ivory. Ivory was found in possession of over 26 grams of pure methamphetamine; over 15 grams of crack cocaine; over 4 grams of powder cocaine; and 25 morphine pills. Ivory admitted to possessing the drugs and his intent to distribute them to other persons. Sentencing before United States District Court Judge Leonard T. Strand will be set after a presentence report is prepared. On the convictions, Ivory faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and a possible maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, an $8,000,000 fine, and at least four years of supervised release following any imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Shawn S. Wehde and was investigated by the United States Marshal’s Service, the Sioux City, Iowa Police Department, and the Tri-State Drug Task Force based in Sioux City, Iowa, that consists of law enforcement personnel from the Drug Enforcement Administration; Sioux City, Iowa, Police Department; Homeland Security Investigations; Woodbury County Sheriff’s Office; South Sioux City, Nebraska, Police Department; Nebraska State Patrol; Iowa National Guard; Iowa Division of Narcotics Enforcement; United States Marshals Service; South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation; and Woodbury County Attorney’s Office. Court file information at https://ecf.iand.uscourts.gov/cgi-bin/login.pl . The case file number is 23-4038. Follow us on Twitter @USAO_NDIA.


title: Prior felon going to prison on new child pornography charge

component: USAO - New York, Western

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that Scott Millar 55, of Buffalo, NY, who was convicted of possession of child pornography, was sentenced to serve 138 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael DiGiacomo, who handled the case, stated in July 2023, Millar was under the supervision of the United States Probation Department based on a 2009 conviction for possessing child pornography. A condition of his supervision was that he was not allowed to commit another criminal offense. A probationary search of Millar’s telephone revealed images and videos of child pornography. The sentencing is the result of an investigation by the Federal bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia and the United States Probation Office, under the direction of Chief Probation Officer Timothy Englert. # # # #


title: Grand jury indicts prior felon on drug and gun charges

body_text: BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney Trini E. Ross announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a three-count indictment charging Robert L. Robinson with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and being a felon in possession of firearms. The charges carry a maximum penalty of life in prison. Assistant U.S. Attorney Louis A. Testani, who is handling the case, stated that according to the indictment and a previously filed complaint, on June 7, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Robinson’s Buffalo residence. During the search, investigators recovered quantities of suspected cocaine and marijuana, $35,869.00 in cash, two firearms, ammunition, and drug paraphernalia. One of the firearms was reported as a duty weapon stolen from a member of the Miami Dade Police Department on July 18, 2019. After the execution of the search warrant, Robinson was taken into custody. Robinson was previously convicted of felony crimes in 2003 and 2011 and is legally prohibited from possessing firearms. The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Child Exploitation Task Force, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Matthew Miraglia, and the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff John Garcia. 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: Latimer County Resident Pleads Guilty To Involuntary Manslaughter

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that David Lee Holloway, age 40, of Wilburton, Oklahoma, entered a plea of guilty to one count of Involuntary Manslaughter in Indian Country. The Indictment alleged that on February 16, 2023, Holloway killed the victim while operating a motor vehicle under the influence of any intoxicating substance other than alcohol. At the plea hearing, Holloway admitted that his actions caused the death of one person and inflicted serious bodily injury to another. The crime occurred in Latimer County, within the boundaries of the Choctaw Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The charges arose from investigations by the Choctaw Nation Lighthorse Police Department, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Holloway was remanded to the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.


title: Konawa Resident Sentenced For Involuntary Manslaughter In Indian Country

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Kristy Renee Zapata-Gutierrez, age 35, of Konawa, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 30 months in prison for one count of Involuntary Manslaughter in Indian Country. The charge arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, the Seminole Nation Lighthorse Police, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. On October 31, 2023, Zapata-Gutierrez pleaded guilty to causing the death of another while driving under the influence and in an unsafe manner. According to investigators, on the morning of March 19, 2023, while under the influence of amphetamine, methamphetamine, and clozapine, Zapata-Gutierrez pulled out onto State Highway 99 in front of oncoming traffic, causing a fatal collision. Zapata-Gutierrez’s passenger died from multiple blunt force injuries. The crime occurred in Seminole County, within the boundaries of the Seminole Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing. Zapata-Gutierrez will report to a designated Bureau of Prisons facility on August 29, 2024, to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States.


title: Stilwell Resident Sentenced For Federal Drug And Firearm Offenses

body_text: MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Justin Dale Killer, age 40, of Stilwell, Oklahoma, was sentenced to 50 months in prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and 50 months in prison for Possessing a Firearm after a Felony Conviction. The sentences are to be served concurrently. The charges arose from an investigation by the Stilwell Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. On August 7, 2023, Killer pleaded guilty to the charges. On February 6, 2023, Killer possessed methamphetamine and a firearm while traveling in a vehicle in Stilwell, Oklahoma. Killer possessed the methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it and possessed the firearm after having been previously convicted of a felony offense punishable by more than one year. The Honorable Ronald A. White, Chief Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the hearing in Muskogee. Killer will remain in the custody of the U.S. Marshal pending transportation to a designated United States Bureau of Prisons facility to serve a non-paroleable sentence of incarceration. Assistant United States Attorney Kevin Gross represented the United States.


title: Delaware County Man Sentenced to 90 Months in Prison for Using Explosives to Try to Rob Six Area ATMs

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Eastern

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Cushmir McBride, 25, of Yeadon, PA, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Joshua D. Wolson to 90 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, $417,463 in restitution, and a $300 special assessment for setting off explosives near ATMs inside a Target, a Wells Fargo bank branch, and Wawa stores. McBride and two others were charged in connection with those crimes in an April 2021 indictment and a January 2022 superseding indictment. In January of this year, McBride pleaded guilty to conspiracy to maliciously damage property used in interstate commerce by means of an explosive, and aiding and abetting, as well as five separate counts of maliciously damaging property used in interstate commerce by means of an explosive. Several of the crimes took place in the aftermath of the October 26, 2020, Philadelphia police officer-involved shooting in the Cobbs Creek section of Philadelphia that resulted in the death of Walter Wallace, Jr. Peaceful protests began that evening and continued into the following days, accompanied by a period of civil unrest, with widespread incidents of looting and violence in various neighborhoods in Philadelphia. On October 28, 2020, McBride and codefendants Nasser McFall, 25, of Claymont, DE, and Kamar Thompson, 37, of Philadelphia, PA, conspired to break into a Target in the Port Richmond section of Philadelphia and set off an explosive device in order to steal money from an ATM inside. The following day, October 29, the defendants broke into a Wawa on Richmond Street in Philadelphia, where they again set off explosive devices in order to steal money from the ATM. On October 31, 2020, the defendants broke into another Wawa in Northeast Philadelphia and detonated an explosive device. On November 4, 2020, the defendants set off an explosive device in another Wawa in Claymont, DE, in an attempt to rob this store in the same manner, and on December 2, 2020, the three defendants set off an explosive device inside an ATM at a Wells Fargo bank in Philadelphia. McBride was also charged with setting off an explosive device at a Wells Fargo ATM in Philadelphia on March 2, 2021. In total, the defendants were able to steal approximately $417,000 during the course of the conspiracy. Thompson pleaded guilty in November 2021 to conspiracy to maliciously damage property used in interstate commerce by means of an explosive, and aiding and abetting, six counts of maliciously damaging property used in interstate commerce by means of an explosive, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. McFall pleaded guilty to five counts against him in June 2022, and in January of this year was sentenced by the late U.S. District Judge Gene E.K. Pratter to 78 months’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and restitution in the amount of $256,083. “McBride and crew carried out a string of violent and dangerous crimes, looking to cash in with a bang,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “Whether you rob a bank with a note, a store with a gun, or an ATM with an explosive, you’re committing a serious federal crime and should expect to be caught and prosecuted. As this defendant and his co-conspirators are learning, crime not only doesn’t pay, it can also cost you dearly.” “McBride caused significant damage and endangered countless lives by recklessly blowing up ATMs with illegal explosive devices at least six times,” said Eric DeGree, Special Agent in Charge of ATF’s Philadelphia Field Office. “ATF is committed to protecting our communities from harm and working with our law enforcement partners to disrupt violent explosives-related activity. I want to thank the Philadelphia Police Department, Philadelphia Fire Marshals Office, Delaware State Police, Upper Chichester Police Department, and the United States Attorney’s Office for their efforts in this case.” The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department, with assistance from Delaware State Police and Upper Chichester Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert E. Eckert and Special Assistant United States Attorney David Osborne.


title: Tompkinsville Man Sentenced to Over 12 Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Online Enticement of a Minor

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Bowling Green, KY – A Tompkinsville, Kentucky, man was sentenced this week to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison for attempted online enticement of a minor. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service, and Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville made the announcement. “I commend the work of AUSA Rabold during the prosecution of this case as well as the outstanding investigative effort by the Secret Service and HSI,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Removing would be predators from our communities is key to keeping them safe for our most vulnerable citizens.” According to court documents, Matthew Warren Burkhard, 36, was sentenced to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release, for one count of attempted online enticement of a minor. Burkhard communicated with an undercover law enforcement agent he believed to be a 14-year-old female, and, during those communications, he knowingly attempted to entice the minor to engage in criminal sexual activity by exchanging sexually explicit images and making plans to meet in person for sexual contact. There is no parole in the federal system. This case was investigated by the USSS and HSI Bowling Green. Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.” ###


title: Pensacola Tax Preparer Sentenced To Federal Prison For Preparing False Tax Returns

component: USAO - Florida, Northern

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Wesner Jean-Pierre, 33, of Orlando, Florida, was sentenced to 26 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to charges of preparing false tax returns. The sentence was by Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. “The United States and its citizens rely on the payment of taxes to defend our country and maintain its operations,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “Efforts to steal from hardworking American taxpayers – here by a corrupt tax preparer – will result in swift and significant sanctions.” Between 2015 and 2019, Jean-Pierre, owner of WJP Financial Services, LLC., a tax preparation business in Pensacola, prepared and filed approximately 1,949 false tax returns with the Internal Revenue Service for various clients. Jean-Pierre falsely represented the taxpayers’ income, deductions, credits, and the refund due, to steal funds from the American taxpayers for his gain. Jean-Pierre’s prison sentence will be followed by 1 year of supervised release and he was ordered to pay $830,840.00 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. “Clients place special trust in their tax preparers, who have a duty to prepare their clients’ returns accurately and in compliance with the law,” said Ronald A. Loecker, Special Agent in Charge of IRS CI’s Tampa Field Office. “Mr. Jean-Pierre is now paying the price for violating that trust for his own personal gain. This sentencing should serve as a warning to those tax preparers who choose to line their own pockets rather than do what’s best for their clients.” This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation Division. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp. The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Lakeland Man Sentenced To More Than 3 Years For Bringing Loaded Firearm Into Tampa International Airport Terminal

body_text: Tampa, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Abraham Othman Yacoub (26, Lakeland) to three years and six months in federal prison for violating airport security requirements and attempted possession of a dangerous weapon on an aircraft. Yacoub entered a guilty plea on April 10, 2024. According to the court records, on August 4, 2023, Yacoub arrived at Tampa International Airport to board a flight to Las Vegas, Nevada. Yacoub entered the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screening line and placed his backpack, shoes, and other personal items into a TSA bin before proceeding through TSA screening. The Hillsborough County Aviation Authority Rules and Regulations for Tampa International Airport state that “[n]o person except those persons authorized by law may carry a firearm or concealed weapon inside the passenger terminal and sterile areas of the airport…” Further, the airport has clearly posted no-firearms signs at the entry of every airport security line. TSA electronically screened Yacoub’s items with an x-ray machine and observed a firearm inside of Yacoub’s bag. While TSA agents were attempting to locate the bag containing the firearm, Yacoub took his bag from the conveyor belt and proceeded to the nearest men’s restroom. Once in the restroom, Yacoub removed the firearm from his backpack, wrapped it in toilet paper, and hid it in a trashcan. A short time later, Yacoub exited the men’s restroom and returned to the TSA screening area, still holding his backpack, where he was met by a TSA agent. TSA agents rescreened Yacoub’s backpack and questioned Yacoub who lied to TSA agents and told them that he had not brought a firearm into the airport. The airport terminal had to be evacuated of passengers and numerous flights were delayed. The Tampa Airport Police Department (TPA PD) responded to the screening area, questioned Yacoub, and searched the men’s restroom that Yacoub had entered. Inside a trashcan in the bathroom, TSA and TPA PD officers located a black firearm partially wrapped in toilet paper with 14 nine-millimeter rounds of ammunition inside of a magazine loaded into the gun. Yacoub agreed to forfeit the Glock 19 and assorted ammunition, seized on August 4, 2023, which are traceable to proceeds of the offense. This is Yacoub’s second time bringing a firearm into a Florida airport. In late 2020, Yacoub brought a firearm into the TSA secured area of an airport in Miami-Dade County. Yacoub pleaded guilty on August 19, 2021, to carrying a concealed firearm for that offense. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Transportation Security Administration, and the Tampa International Airport Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Karyna Valdes.


title: Former Jacksonville Electric Authority CEO Aaron Zahn Sentenced To Four Years In Federal Prison For Conspiracy To Steal City Funds And Wire Fraud

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Aaron Zahn (44, formerly of Jacksonville Beach) to four years in federal prison for conspiracy to steal and embezzle City of Jacksonville municipal funds and for wire fraud. Zahn was found guilty after a four-week jury trial on March 14, 2024. According to court documents and evidence admitted at trial, Zahn became the interim CEO of the Jacksonville Electric Authority (JEA) in April 2018, then the permanent CEO in November 2018. During his tenure as CEO, Zahn led a process to convince the JEA Board of Directors that if JEA did not privatize or recapitalize, the historically successful municipal utility (in operation since 1895) faced daunting headwinds that it would not overcome over the ensuing decade, such that considering privatization through a statutorily required process known as an Invitation To Negotiate (ITN) was the only viable path forward. During that process in the summer of 2019, Zahn developed a bonus plan known as the Performance Unit Plan (PUP) that appeared to pay reasonable bonuses to PUP unit holders if JEA hit certain performance metrics. In reality, the PUP had hidden aspects designed to pay Zahn and other JEA executives lavish bonuses based on a calculation tethered to a sale of the municipal utility. Trial evidence showed that the 100,000 PUP units were designed to increase in value from $10 to upwards of $11,500, for a potential bonus pool of $315,000,000, which would have been funded from the sale or privatization of JEA. Zahn expected to personally benefit from the PUP if JEA was sold in the amount of approximately $40 million, and Zahn expected other high level JEA executives to make approximately $10 million. The PUP was a made-up stock tethered to a public entity (JEA) that had no concept of equity. The formula was engineered to lead to the certainty of large payouts of money if JEA was sold pursuant to minimum requirements for recapitalization that Zahn created. On November 18, 2019, after studying the PUP and asking numerous questions of Zahn and others, the City of Jacksonville Council Auditor issued a memorandum to the Members of the Jacksonville City Council that exposed the true nature of the PUP, based on potential net proceeds to the City of Jacksonville upon a sale of JEA in the amounts of $3 billion to $5 billion. After the Council Auditor revealed the intention to steal and embezzle funds from the sale of JEA, the ITN process was cancelled, and Zahn was terminated from his CEO position. “Fraud and corruption pose a fundamental threat to our national security and our way of life, and the FBI will not tolerate those who seek to deceive American citizens. As a taxpayer, you are entitled to decisions based on the public's best interest, and we take very seriously our responsibility to investigate and aggressively pursue individuals who attempt to defraud publicly funded institutions in a selfish effort to line their own pockets,” said Special Agent in Charge Kristin Rehler of the FBI Jacksonville Field Office. “FBI Jacksonville is committed to ensuring that anyone who violates the public's trust is held accountable to the fullest extent possible.” This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and investigators from the State Attorney’s Office for the Fourth Judicial Circuit assigned to the FBI. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys A. Tysen Duva and Chip Corsmeier.


title: New Jersey Man Indicted For Production Of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Jose Colon, age 50, of Bloomfield, New Jersey, was indicted on July 30, 2024, by a federal grand jury on three counts of production of child pornography. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that Colon communicated with multiple minor victims who he enticed into creating images of themselves engaged in sexually explicit activity and then directed them to send those images to him via cellphone. The case is being investigated by the Department of Homeland Security. Assistant United States Attorney Luisa Honora Berti is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood , a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. The maximum penalty under federal law for these offenses is thirty years imprisonment as to each count, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments and Criminal Informations are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Former gym owner indicted for recording minors in tanning salon and home, possessing child pornography and enticing children

component: USAO - Georgia, Southern

body_text: STATESBORO, GA: The former owner of a Toombs County fitness and tanning business has been indicted on federal charges involving the sexual exploitation of multiple children. Walter Joey Drew , 41, of Kite, Ga., is charged in a newly unsealed federal indictment with six counts of Production of Child Pornography; three counts of Attempted Production of Child Pornography; six counts of Possession of Child Pornography; and one count each of Receipt of Child Pornography and Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. The charge of Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a Minor carries a statutory minimum sentence upon conviction of 10 years in federal prison, up to life imprisonment, while production or attempted production charges carry a statutory minimum sentence upon conviction of 15 years in federal prison, up to 30 years. Conviction on any of the charges carries substantial financial penalties and restitution, a requirement to register as a sex offender, and up to lifetime supervised release upon completion of any prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. Drew is the former owner of the now-closed Legacy Performance Center in Lyons, Ga., a gym with a tanning center. The indictment alleges that from February 2021 to June of 2023, Drew produced or attempted to produce sexually explicit visual depictions of at least eight minor victims at the gym and his residence, and had those images in his possession. The indictment also alleges that Drew attempted to entice one of the minor victims to engage in sexual activity to produce child pornography. Drew faces related state charges in Toombs County, in the Southern District of Georgia, and from separate conduct at a previous residence in White County, in the Northern District of Georgia. Investigators from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) are seeking information from anyone who might be a victim or believes they have relevant information about Drew or his former business. Those with information are asked to call the HSI Tip Line at 866-347-2423. The case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney and Project Safe Childhood Coordinator Jason W. Blanchard. Anyone with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 800-843-5678, or https://report.cybertip.org/ .


title: New Albany Man Sentenced to Twenty Months in Federal Prison for Stealing Over $1.2 Million from his Employer

body_text: NEW ALBANY- Caleb Keller, 38, of New Albany, Indiana has been sentenced to 20 months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to wire fraud and money laundering. According to court documents, Keller began working for his employer in 2011, soon after graduating college. Between April 2017 and June 2021, Keller created and submitted 101 false and fraudulent invoices to his former employer through his side business, Polyglot Developers. After arranging for his employer to contract with Polyglot, he created two fictitious employees, “Matt Pearson” and “Grant Miller.” He then drafted false invoices that billed his employer for services allegedly performed by the two fake employees. For example, on April 29, 2019, Keller submitted a $19,940 invoice to his employer for services allegedly rendered by four employees, including $15,200 for services allegedly rendered by the two fictitious employees. When an executive at his employer became suspicious of the fake employees and demanded a meeting with “Matt Pearson,” Keller pretended to be Pearson on a Zoom call by using a video filter. During the meeting, it became obvious that Pearson was not real and that the person purporting to be Pearson was actually Keller. Following the meeting, Keller was fired and his employer’s relationship with Polyglot was terminated. In April 2022, Keller was interviewed by law enforcement investigators and insisted that Pearson and Miller were actual employees who provided services to his employer. In July 2022, Keller was interviewed again and admitted that the purported employees were fake and that he had impersonated Pearson on the Zoom call. Due to this years’ long scheme, Keller’s employer was deceived into paying Keller approximately $1,210,120 for work they believed was completed by fictitious employees of Keller’s business. Keller used the fraudulently obtained money to pay for personal expenses. “Trusted employees can cause tremendous harm to a business when they exploit their positions to steal and cover it up,” said Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “Protecting Hoosiers and Hoosier businesses from fraud is a top priority for federal law enforcement. Thanks to the efforts of the FBI, IRS-CI, and our federal prosecutor, this criminal has been accountable for his actions. The federal prison sentence imposed here should be a warning to would-be fraudsters that economic crimes can lead to paying a very serious price.” “The defendant betrayed the trust of his company through his deceit and web of lies for his personal gain and this sentence sends a clear message that there are consequences for such greed,” said FBI Indianapolis Special Agent in Charge Herbert J. Stapleton. “The FBI is committed to continuing to root out these white-collar criminals and ensure they are held accountable.” “Today’s sentencing sends a clear message: those who engage in wire fraud and money laundering schemes will be held accountable,” said Ramsey E. Covington, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Our dedicated special agents worked tirelessly to uncover this long-running scheme, and this outcome underscores our commitment to bringing justice to individuals like Caleb Keller, who exploit and defraud their employers. IRS Criminal Investigation and our law enforcement partners will continue to pursue and prosecute those who violate the trust placed in them, ensuring that financial crimes do not go unpunished.” The FBI and IRS-CI investigated this case. The sentence was imposed by Chief U.S. District Judge Tanya Walton Pratt. Judge Pratt also ordered that Keller pay $1,210,120 in restitution to the victim business. U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew B. Miller, who prosecuted this case. ###


title: United States Attorney Recognizes World Day Against Trafficking in Persons

component: USAO - Mississippi, Northern

body_text: OXFORD, MS – The United Nations General Assembly has declared July 30 as “World Day Against Trafficking in Persons,” and urges accelerated action to end child trafficking. Clay Joyner, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, has committed efforts to raise awareness and combat this growing epidemic. “Human trafficking, particularly the trafficking of children, is an outrage that cannot be tolerated,” remarked Joyner. “This office will do everything in our power to root out this evil and protect vulnerable victims.” What is human trafficking? The most common forms of human trafficking are sexual exploitation and forced labor. Human trafficking occurs when a trafficker uses force, fraud or coercion to control another person for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts or soliciting labor or services against his/her will. Any commercial sex act involving someone under the age of 18 is human trafficking. Traffickers can be organized groups but also the victim’s own family. One in three victims of human trafficking globally is a child, with girls being disproportionately affected. Often, child exploitation cases meet the definition of trafficking if the crime involves a sex act in exchange for something of value, including money, food, shelter, clothing, or other items. Identification and protection of child victims remain challenging due to underreporting and lack of awareness. Traffickers often employ coercion, deception, and threats to maintain control over their victims, making it difficult for authorities to intervene. Citizens should be aware of the signs to assist in recognizing and reporting trafficking. What are the signs? Lack of identifying documents such as a driver's license or passport. Traffickers seize these from their victims to restrict their freedom of movement and limit their actions. Lack of control of their own money . Traffickers withhold or deny wages, and limit access to cash in order to control their victims. Signs of physical abuse such as bruises or scars. Unusual fearfulness . Victims may be working under threats to themselves, their family, their property or their freedom. Unwillingness to communicate or socialize . Victims may be fearful to communicate with their friends, family or authorities. Lack of food, sleep or proper care . Victims may be subject to very poor living conditions and treatment. Being underage for their work , especially if it involves commercial sex. Resources are available for trafficking victims and includes response by local, state, and Federal law enforcement. If you or someone you know is a victim of human trafficking, assistance is available 24/7 immediately from local law enforcement and through the National Human Trafficking Hotline. A confidential report can be made by visiting https://humantraffickinghotline.org/ , calling 1-888-373-7888, or sending a text to BeFree (233733). Though this a crime occurring globally, trafficking is present at the local level. The U.S. Attorney’s Office urges citizens in the Northern District of Mississippi to report suspected trafficking. In Mississippi, you can make a report to the statewide human trafficking coordinator by emailing ReportHT@dps.ms.gov or calling 601-987-1671. Any report involving a victim under 18 being trafficked must be reported to the Mississippi Department of Child Protection Services online at https://reportabuse.mdcps.ms.gov/ or by calling 1-800-222-8000.


title: Niles Man Sentenced For Illegally Possessing Gun Linked To Prior Shootings

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: Prosecution Part of a Larger Effort to Disrupt String of Gang-Related, Retaliatory Shootings GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN— U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark Totten today announced that Lawrence Edward Slaughter II, 20, of Niles, was sentenced to 42 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm that was connected to shootings and modified to a fully automatic weapon. This prosecution was part of an enforcement operation aimed at disrupting a string of gang-related retaliatory shootings in Niles, which had killed two individuals and injured several more. “From large cities to small towns like Niles, Michigan, we are laser-focused on stopping the few individuals – like Mr. Slaughter – who are driving gun violence in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “Safety is a civil right. Every person, regardless of their zip code, deserves to live their life, walk their neighborhood, and play in the park free from the fear of violence and gunfire. We will not stop until this right is a reality for everyone.” On September 23, 2022, law enforcement received information that members of the Pop Out Gang of Niles, Michigan, were planning a retaliatory shooting for the recent deaths of two individuals. In particular, law enforcement learned that members of the gang planned to use firearms and ammunition located at the home of Mr. Slaughter, who was on state probation for tampering with evidence, concealing a weapon, and assaulting a police officer. After receiving this information, law enforcement accompanied probation officers from the Michigan Department of Corrections on a probation compliance check. The search located firearms inside a roommate’s bedroom. Underneath the bed, they found a Glock 9mm handgun and an AR rifle with a full “P Mag” that holds approximately 100 rounds of ammunition. The search also located two additional pistols in the bedroom closet. One of these pistols was a 9mm Glock pistol that DNA evidence connected to Mr. Slaughter. The pistol had an illegal machinegun conversion device attached. This device, often referred to as a “switch,” allows a shooter to spray bullets with a single pull of the trigger and inflict staggering harm. Moreover, the gun was a crime gun linked to four prior shootings that occurred in South Bend, Indiana. A “crime gun” is any gun previously fired in the commission of a crime. These guns are often passed around inside and outside of groups, especially after a shooting. As recently announced , the U.S. Attorney’s Office is running a summer program with other law enforcement partners focused on firearms offenders who carry crime guns. “The Niles Police Department, and the citizens of Niles, are happy to see this case concluded with the responsible individual receiving a just punishment for their crimes, and another illegal gun taken off the streets,” said Niles Public Safety Director James Millin . “The Niles Police Department remains committed to working with our citizens, as well as local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, in order to ensure our communities are safer for all.” “The combined efforts of the Niles Police Department and the FBI contributed to the successful conviction and sentencing of one the most violent offenders, who possessed an illegal firearm and conversion device within this community,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Michigan. “Those who commit crimes, especially involving firearms which can cause serious bodily injury and/or death, will be investigated and arrested by members of the FBI and our law enforcement partners." The previous press release, press conference footage, and indictment can be viewed here . Government documents filed as part of sentencing and providing further details are attached. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney LaToyia Carpenter and investigated by the Niles Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). ###


title: Four Individuals Plead Guilty To Federal Charges Arising Out Of International Mail And Wire Fraud Scheme

body_text: The scheme operated for years in West Michigan and throughout the United States GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Michigan Mark A. Totten today announced that four individuals pleaded guilty to federal charges for participating in an international mail and wire fraud scheme originating in Nigeria and frequently targeting elderly individuals. Fatai Okunola, 37, of Kalamazoo, Michigan; Oluwaseyi Adeola, 34, of Dallas, Texas; and Cory McDougal, 33, of Romeoville, Illinois, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and Ijeoma Adeola, 36, also of Dallas, Texas, pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony (the failure to report the commission of a felony to appropriate authorities and taking an affirmative step to assist in the concealment of the crime) for her role in affirmatively concealing the operations of the conspiracy. Fatai Okunola additionally pleaded guilty to making false statements on his application for naturalization as a United States citizen and money laundering related to assisting other individuals in purchasing vehicles with money from the fraud scheme and exporting the vehicles to Nigeria. “Securing these guilty pleas is a step forward to ensuring justice for the victims of this international fraud scheme,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “The defendants used modern technology, including the internet and social media platforms – something we all rely upon every day to communicate and carry out legitimate tasks in our daily lives – to prey on elderly and vulnerable victims. Some of the victims in this case lost their retirement savings, took loans against their homes, or suffered other financial distress because of the defendants’ alleged lies. My office will vigorously pursue sentences that appropriately reflect the seriousness of this financial fraud and the damage they have done to the public’s confidence in the information we all receive over the internet every day.” According to court records, the defendants conspired with individuals primarily in Nigeria to defraud individuals in the United States, many that were elderly or particularly vulnerable, through a variety of fraud schemes using interstate wire transmissions or the mail system. The conspirators in Nigeria created false online personas to develop relationships with their victims over the internet, through social media, by text messages or by telephone. These relationships centered around romantic interests, offers to buy or sell goods or services, apartment rentals, or offers to make loans or provide grant funding, among other schemes. The conspirators sent pictures or provided other information to the victims to make their schemes appear genuine. When the conspirators used telephone calls, they used voice-over-internet-protocol numbers to make it appear as if the calls were originating within the United States near the victims. After developing the relationships, the conspirators asked for money for a variety of reasons related to the scheme. After the victims agreed, the conspirators directed the victims to send the money to the defendants, who opened numerous bank accounts to receive the victims’ money. On some occasions, the defendants received the victims’ money in post office boxes maintained under alias names or through payments made payable to “shell” businesses that the defendants, including Ijeoma Adeola, created to receive fraud proceeds. The victims sent the money to the defendants through the mail, bank-to-bank transfers, or through peer-to-peer money transfer services like Zelle or PayPal. After the defendants received the money in their accounts, they transferred the money to each other, to the conspirators overseas, and to their own accounts in Nigeria. Fatai Okunola used some of the fraud proceeds he received to assist others in purchasing automobiles in the United States and then exporting them to Nigeria. According to the indictment, defendants received more than $2 million dollars in their accounts from the scheme between 2017 and 2022. All defendants will be sentenced on January 14, 2025. Fatai Okunola, Oluwaseyi Adeola, and Cory McDougal each face a maximum sentence of up to 20 years in prison for their roles in the conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud and will be ordered to pay restitution to their victims. Okunola additionally faces a maximum sentence of up to 10 years in prison for his money laundering conviction, up to 5 years in prison for his conviction related to making false statements on his naturalization application, and possible removal and deportation from the United States. Ijeoma Adeola faces a maximum sentence of up to 3 years in prison and will be ordered to pay restitution to her victims. “HSI continues to ensure that fraudsters are held accountable for their crimes and today’s guilty plea is evidence of that,” said HSI Detroit acting Special Agent in Charge Jared Murphey . “By working together at all levels of law enforcement, we can dismantle interstate and international fraud networks that prey on hard-working people across the country.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service is charged with safeguarding the nation’s mail system, and those who use it, from fraud and exploitation – a charge we take very seriously,” said USPIS Inspector in Charge Rodney Hopkins . “Particularly when it comes to our most vulnerable populations, we work tirelessly alongside our partners to prosecute such financial predators to the fullest extent of the law. I would like to thank HSI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan for their partnership and the great work on this case leading to today’s guilty pleas.” Individuals who believe they may be a victim of this fraud and who have not yet communicated with the U.S. Attorney’s Office are encouraged to visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-wdmi/victim-and-witness-assistance-program/vw-large-cases/okunola or contact Breane Warner, Victim Assistance Specialist, at (616) 808-2064. A list of post office boxes, email addresses, and fraudulent names used in this case are posted on the website. Anyone who suspects an ongoing internet crime is encouraged to file a report with the Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3.gov), the FBI’s central hub for reporting cybercrime. Those reports often provide invaluable information to help the FBI and its law enforcement partners investigate and prosecute fraud schemes like the one charged in this case. Federal law enforcement provides a number of tips on how to protect yourself from similar internet or email scams, including: Be cautious of unsolicited phone calls, e-mails, and mailings. Never give or send any sensitive information (including your date of birth, account numbers, or passwords), credit or debit card numbers, or money to unverified people or businesses. Resist the pressure to act quickly. Scammers create a false sense of urgency to lure people to immediate action. If you recognize a scam attempt, immediately end all communication with the perpetrator. The Homeland Security Investigations, and United States Postal Inspection Service, Grand Rapids offices, are investigating this case. The Kalamazoo Department of Public Safety also provided valuable assistance. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ron Stella is prosecuting the case. ###


title: Prior Felon Sentenced To Federal Prison For Drug Possession And Possession Of Firearms And Ammunition

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

body_text: PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Shaun Edward McBay, 51, of Freeport, Florida, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Jason R. Coody, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the sentence. “Methamphetamine distribution is a scourge on large and small communities of our district,” said U.S. Attorney Coody. “With our dedicated law enforcement partners, we are committed to identifying and aggressively prosecuting those who threaten our citizens’ health and safety by distributing such addictive, controlled substances. This sentence acknowledges the defendant’s continued criminal conduct and sends a straightforward message that there are real and severe consequences for federal firearm and drug offenses.” On April 9, 2023, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s deputies seized 565 grams of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine from McBay during a traffic stop in Destin, Florida. Eight days later, on April 17, 2023, Walton County Sheriff’s Office investigators executed a state search warrant at McBay’s residence in Freeport, Florida. During the search, investigators located and seized 16 grams of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia including digital scales and baggies used for drug distribution, 7 firearms and 146 rounds of ammunition. McBay’s prison sentence will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. “Meth distribution doesn’t just devastate individuals. It devastates communities,” said Okaloosa County Sheriff Eric Aden. Every time we partner together to take a meth dealer like Shaun McBay off our streets, we score a victory for the overall health, safety, and quality of life of our entire region.” “I cannot stress enough the importance of good partnerships and how those translate into successful investigations, arrests, and prosecutions,” said Walton County Sheriff Michael Adkinson. “The result is getting dangerous drugs off the streets before they poison our community.” “Our partnerships with local sheriff’s offices, and our state and federal partners make arrests like this one possible,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “This person peddled dangerous substances that rip apart families and communities. Through our joint efforts we were able to take him off the streets.” This sentencing resulted from the collaborative investigations of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Walton County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and others with the Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas Task Force (HIDTA). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney J. Ryan Love. 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. As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html .


title: Tampa Man Charged With Sex Trafficking A Minor

body_text: Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the unsealing of an indictment charging Jessie Thomas Taylor (42, Tampa) with sex trafficking of a minor. If convicted, Taylor faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. According to the indictment, Taylor advertised and transported a minor victim and caused the minor victim to engage in a commercial sex act. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Tampa Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry. This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.


title: Crystal Springs Man Pleads Guilty to Brandishing a Firearm During a Carjacking in Jackson

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A Crystal Springs man pled guilty to brandishing a firearm while carjacking a woman in front of her home in Jackson. According to court documents, Christopher Lawrence Murray, 31, brandished a pistol during a carjacking in the Jackson area. In May of 2021, Murray and another man approached a woman sitting in her car in front of her home. Working in tandem, both men pointed pistols at the woman and demanded she hand over her cellular phone and the keys to her car. The woman, at gunpoint, complied with the demands and the men left in the woman’s car. Murray was indicted by a federal grand jury on September 6, 2023. He pled guilty today to brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. He is scheduled to be sentenced on October 29, 2024, and faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 7 years and a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. “We are working to reduce carjackings in Jackson by prosecuting offenders in federal court and bringing together federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to identify and arrest individuals and groups involved in carjacking,” said U.S. Attorney Todd Gee. In an effort to focus resources on carjacking in Jackson, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Jackson Police Department and the Capitol Police Department formed a carjacking task force in April of 2024. In keeping with the Justice Department’s Comprehensive Strategy for Reducing Violent Crime , the task force represents a strategic enforcement priority for the department, focusing federal resources on identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the most significant drivers of violent crime. U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement. The Jackson Police Department and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bert Carraway is prosecuting the case.


title: Avantor, Inc. Agrees to Pay $5.325 Million  to Resolve Allegations of False Claims for Overcharging Federal Agencies and Allegations of DEA Violations and Lack of Compliance as to Listed Chemicals

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced today that Avantor, Inc., based in Radnor, PA, has agreed to pay a total of $5.325 million to resolve multiple alleged violations of federal law. False Claims Act Resolution First, Avantor has agreed to pay $5 million to resolve allegations that one of its subsidiaries, VWR International, LLC (VWR), violated the False Claims Act by fraudulently overcharging federal agencies for goods purchased between 2008 and 2017 (the “False Claims Act Settlement”). Avantor acquired VWR in 2017. VWR is a global distributor of scientific and technical laboratory supplies, including chemicals, glassware, instruments, protective clothing, and production supplies. VWR has entered into procurement contracts with agencies of the United States to sell their products under agreed terms, including provisions under which VWR agrees to offer or provide federal government purchasers buying goods from VWR with the same or better prices that VWR offered or provided to an agreed-upon, private-sector basis of award customer (“Most Favored Customer Pricing”). The United States’ allegations under the False Claims Act arise from four government contracts VWR entered into with government agencies. These contracts include two Multiple Award Schedule Contracts (“GSA MAS Contracts”) VWR entered into with the U.S. General Services Administration (GSA) in 1995 and in 2015, which provided a streamlined process for federal government buyers to purchase goods from VWR at discounted prices and required VWR to meet specified conditions. Several different United States agencies, including the Department of Defense, purchased VWR products under the GSA MAS Contracts, which provided for Most Favored Customer Pricing. The contracts at issue also include a 2001 Blanket Purchase Agreement that VWR entered into with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and a 2005 contract VWR entered into with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) under Federal Supply Schedule 65 VI. Both the NIH and VA made purchases from VWR under their respective contracts, which both contained best price provisions. The United States alleged that VWR violated the False Claims Act when performing its obligations under these government contracts (the “Schedule Contracts”) by: Failing to offer or provide federal government purchasers buying goods from VWR under the Schedule Contracts with Most Favored Customer Pricing; Increasing pricing for federal government purchasers, while not increasing prices for the Most Favored Customer; Failing to provide federal government purchasers with the same rebates, discounts, incentives, and other favorable terms offered to the Most Favored Customer; Failing to report and adjust the prices that VWR offered to federal government purchasers to be consistent with those offered to the Most Favored Customer; Failing to report and reduce prices or make refunds to federal government purchasers, as required by the Price Reductions Clauses in the Schedule Contracts; and Failing to report changes in VWR’s commercial pricing practices or policies from those disclosed to the federal government during the parties’ pricing negotiations, and to reduce federal government pricing accordingly. The United States alleged that, as a result of this conduct, VWR knowingly submitted false or fraudulent claims for payment to the United States in violation of the False Claims Act. “Contractors are expected to understand and carefully comply with the requirements of federal contracts,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “This settlement under the False Claims Act demonstrates that the federal government will hold accountable contractors that overcharge agencies by failing to follow the pricing terms of federal contracts, and should be seen as a warning to contractors that false claims have no place in government purchasing.” “GSA’s Office of the Inspector General will continue to investigate any allegations of GSA contractors overcharging federal agencies at the expense of American taxpayers,” said GSA Acting Inspector General Robert Erickson. “I appreciate the hard work of those who worked on this case.” “Companies that contract with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are required to abide by the set agreements including charging the same or better prices as other customers,” said Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Philadelphia Regional Office of the Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG takes allegations of false claims in contracts seriously and will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of the federal contracting process.” “The integrity of the DoD procurement process is of vital importance to the DoD Office of Inspector General’s Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” stated Brian J. Solecki, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DCIS Northeast Field Office. “The DoD expects its contractors to adhere to contract requirements and the DCIS will continue to work with its law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice to ensure DoD contractors who engage in fraudulent activity at the expense of the U.S. Military are held accountable for their actions.” The False Claims Act Settlement also resolves a lawsuit originally brought by Adrian G. Scioli, a former VWR employee, under the whistleblower, or qui tam , provisions of the False Claims Act. The Act permits private citizens with knowledge of fraud against the government to bring a lawsuit on behalf of the United States and to share in any recovery. Scioli will receive approximately $1,100,000 of the settlement. The lawsuit is captioned United States et al., ex rel. Scioli v. VWR International, LLC, et al. , No. 17-cv-2574 (E.D. Pa.). The False Claims Act Settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the GSA Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. The False Claims Act matter is being handled in the U.S. Attorney’s Office by Assistant United States Attorneys Lauren DeBruicker and Mark J. Sherer, and Auditor Dawn Wiggins. DEA Resolution In addition, Avantor has agreed to pay $325,000 to resolve allegations that it and its subsidiaries, including VWR, failed to comply with a number of compliance obligations between 2013 and 2023 pertaining to its dealings in listed chemicals, which are regulated by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The company also entered into an administrative agreement with the DEA that imposed a variety of heightened accountability obligations. Certain chemicals are categorized as listed precursor chemicals, i.e., chemicals, which in addition to their legitimate uses, can be used in manufacturing a controlled substance in violation of federal law and are important to the manufacture of the controlled substances. Those listed chemicals are divided into two groups: List I chemicals and List II chemicals. Avantor is a chemical importer, manufacturer, distributor, and exporter registered with the DEA at various locations across the United States. Companies that conduct international imports and exports of List I chemicals are generally required to submit at least two separate reports to the DEA for each transaction: (1) a notification of the transaction to the DEA prior to any import or export; and (2) a return declaration to the DEA containing particulars of the transaction that was completed, including the date, quantity, chemical, container, and name of transferees. In addition, when a regulated person engages in a regulated transaction involving a listed chemical, the company is required to maintain records of that transaction. The records must include the name, address, contact information, and, if required, DEA registration number of each party to the regulated transaction; the date of the regulated transaction; the quantity, chemical name, and the form of packaging; the method of transfer; and the type of identification used by the purchaser and any unique number on that identification. The DEA conducted a number of inspections of Avantor’s facilities over the past several years, during which it alleges it identified violations of its listed chemical obligations by Avantor, including inspections at its Paris, Kentucky, facility; its Manati, Puerto Rico, facility; and its Bridgeport, New Jersey, facility. The United States alleged that Avantor failed to comply with its listed chemical compliance obligations in a number of ways at these facilities, between 2013 and 2023. For example, the settlement agreement alleges that Avantor committed the following violations, at certain periods of time and at certain of its facilities: received and distributed listed chemicals while failing to properly document the correct registration number or the customer’s registration number; repackaged chemicals under an improper registration number; exported listed chemicals under the wrong registration number; failed to properly annotate information on DEA import/export forms; shipped chemicals that met or exceeded its threshold without making the required submission to DEA. Avantor self-disclosed some of the alleged violations with respect to its exporter registration in Paris, Kentucky. The United States alleged that, as a result of this conduct, it had certain civil claims against Avantor under the Controlled Substances Act. There are no allegations that the listed chemicals at issue here were used to manufacture illicit controlled substances. In addition to the monetary component, the company also entered into an administrative agreement with the DEA. The agreement imposes a number of reporting and compliance obligations on the company for a period of time. “Companies that deal in listed chemicals are held to high standards since the chemicals can be used to manufacture illicit controlled substances,” said U.S. Attorney Romero. “It is critical that companies live up to the compliance obligations imposed by federal law and regulation to ensure accountability and proper monitoring.” “Listed chemicals can be used as precursors to illicitly manufacture dangerous synthetic drugs, such as fentanyl and methamphetamine,” said Thomas Hodnett, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Philadelphia Field Division. “It is essential to public safety and the lives of Americans that all companies handling listed chemicals—including large-scale chemical enterprises operating domestically and abroad—adhere closely to DEA regulations.” The DEA Settlement was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, the DEA Philadelphia Field Division, and DEA Headquarters, including the DEA Office of Chief Counsel and the DEA Diversion Control Division Chemical Investigations Section. Additional assistance was provided by the DEA Caribbean Field Division, DEA Louisville Field Division, DEA Atlanta Field Division, DEA Chicago Field Division, and DEA New Jersey Field Division. The DEA matter is being handled in the U.S. Attorney’s Office by Assistant United States Attorney Anthony D. Scicchitano, with assistance from Frank O’Connor, Jeffrey Braun, and Andrew Schobert. The claims resolved by these settlements are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.


title: Bloods Gang Member Sentenced to Prison for Illegal Possession of Four Firearms

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: ST. PAUL, Minn. – Obuatawan Leon Holt, aka “Bone,” was sentenced to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possessing firearms as a felon, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, on November 16, 2021, approximately three months after Holt’s prior term of federal supervised release expired, officers with the Minneapolis Police Department searched the Holt’s residence in connection with a firearms investigation. Holt, 48, who is a known member and associate of the Minneapolis Bloods street gang, was found in possession of four firearms: two Smith & Wesson semi-automatic pistols, one CZ Arms semi-automatic pistol, and one Rock Armory semi-automatic pistol. Because Holt has multiple prior felony convictions, including a federal drug trafficking conviction, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time. On February 29, 2024, Holt pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm as a felon. He was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Judge Susan Richard Nelson. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Minnesota Department of Corrections, and the Minneapolis Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Esther Soria Mignanelli and Kristian C. Weir prosecuted the case.


title: Chatham County man sentenced to federal prison for lighting dumpster fire that temporarily closed a restaurant

body_text: BRUNSWICK, GA: A Chatham County man was sentenced to five years in prison after pleading guilty to setting a fire in a restaurant’s outdoor trash container. Joshua Daryl McGregor , 34, of Savannah, was sentenced to 60 months in prison after pleading guilty to Arson, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood also ordered McGregor to pay restitution for property lost in the fire, and to serve three years of supervised release upon completion of his prison term. There is no parole in the federal system. “Intentionally setting a fire in an effort to shut down or damage someone else’s property is inexcusable,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “Joshua McGregor will have substantial time to ponder his post-prison employment options.” As described in court documents and testimony, McGregor was an employee of the McDonald’s at 2701 Montgomery Ave. in Savannah, and in April 2023 was frustrated because the restaurant was very busy. He lit a piece of cardboard on fire and tossed it into the restaurant’s dumpster, which was full of cardboard and other flammable materials, and ensured the fire ignited before returning to the restaurant. The fire became so intense that customers in the drive-through lane had to back out of the parking lot, and the restaurant was forced to briefly close while the Savannah Fire Department extinguished the blaze. McGregor, who filmed the fire with his cell phone, was identified on surveillance video as starting the fire. He was arrested by Savannah Police Department investigators, and in May pled guilty to arson in U.S. District Court. “Arson is an extremely violent crime that not only destroys property but also places firefighters, first responders and the general public at great risk,” said Beau Kolodka, Assistant Special Agent in Charge for the ATF Atlanta Field Division. “The ATF, along with the Savannah Fire’s Arson Unit and our other law enforcement partners, are committed to ensuring that our communities are safe and that those who commit these dangerous acts are held accountable.” “Savannah Fire’s Arson Unit greatly appreciates our continued ability to work with our local and federal partners to successfully prosecute arson that effects interstate commerce in our jurisdiction,” said Fred Anderson, chief investigator for the Savannah Fire Arson Unit. “These efforts made as a partnership have continued to help make our community safer and greatly reduce the act of arson throughout the city.” The case was investigated by the Savannah Fire Department, the Savannah Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Makeia R. Jonese.


title: FCI Allenwood Inmate Charged With Possession Of A Weapon And A Controlled Substance

body_text: SCRANTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Thomas Burton, age 48, a New York City native, was indicted on July 30, 2024, by a federal grand jury for possessing a weapon and controlled substance while being an inmate in prison. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, the indictment alleges that Burton was discovered to be in possession of a homemade shank and synthetic marijuana on June 19, 2024. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI). Assistant United States Attorney Sarah R. Lloyd is prosecuting the case. The maximum penalty under federal law for possessing a weapon in prison is five years imprisonment, three years of supervision, and a fine. The maximum penalty under federal law for possessing a controlled substance in prison is one year of imprisonment, one year of supervision, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. Indictments are only allegations. All persons charged are presumed to be innocent unless and until found guilty in court. # # #


title: Railroad contractors indicted for obtaining and selling stolen watches

component: USAO - Kansas

body_text: KANSAS CITY, KAN. – Two Texas men made their initial appearances after a federal grand jury in Kansas City, Kansas, returned an indictment on charges related to stolen merchandise. According to court documents, Gerald Ditz, 31, and Michael Alaniz, 35, both of El Paso, Texas, are charged with one count of conspiracy to transport stolen property, one count of interstate transportation of stolen property, one count of mail and wire fraud conspiracy, and one count of mail fraud. Between May 2023 and May 2024, Ditz and Alaniz are accused of using their employment at a freight-contracting company that serves a train station in Santa Teresa, New Mexico, to unlawfully obtain Garmin brand watches that were in transit to Garmin’s warehouse in Olathe, Kansas. Ditz and Alaniz allegedly sold dozens of the stolen Garmin watches over the Internet to unwitting buyers. According to the indictment, in addition to the watches allegedly associated with or sold by Ditz and Alaniz, other watches stolen from the Garmin shipping container have registrations that appear to be connected to more than a dozen individuals (approximately fifteen percent of the workforce) assigned or formerly assigned at the Santa Teresa train station. Ditz made his initial court appearance on July 29, 2024, before a Magistrate Judge in the Western District of Texas. Alaniz made his initial court appearance July 30, 2024, before a Magistrate Judge in the Western District of Texas. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan J. Huschka is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###