title: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah Announces New Initiative Focusing on Environmental Justice and Public Reporting

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: Salt Lake City, Utah – United States Attorney, Trina A. Higgins, has named Assistant United States Attorney, Melina Shiraldi, to lead the District of Utah’s Environmental Justice Initiative. May marks the one-year anniversary since U.S. Attorney Higgins was sworn in as the first female presidentially appointed U.S. Attorney for the District of Utah. As part of her ongoing commitment to pursue justice and equity throughout Utah, prosecuting environmental crimes is part of that equation. The role of the U.S. Attorney’s office is to investigate any civil or criminal matter that may involve a disproportionate and adverse environmental or human health effect on identifiable low income, minority, or tribal communities. “We seek to ensure that all people of Utah have equal access to a healthy environment,” said U.S. Attorney Higgins. A seasoned federal prosecutor, Shiraldi, has 14 years legal experience and five years with the U.S. Attorney’s Office. As the Environmental Justice Coordinator, AUSA Shiraldi will lead efforts along with the U.S. Attorney to enforce environmental laws in the District of Utah’s housing, communities, and land. “We will protect environmental quality and human health in all Utah communities,” said AUSA Shiraldi. More information about the environmental justice initiative can be found on the district’s website at USAO-UT . A public service announcement video on this initiative can be found on the USAO-Utah YouTube channel. Pixabay The U.S. Attorney’s Office welcomes information from the public regarding possible environmental, health, and climate impacts on individuals and communities in Utah. You may submit information or concerns regarding Environmental Justice to the Environmental Justice Coordinator at USAUT.Enviro@usdoj.gov via phone at (801) 524-5682 or by mail at U.S. Attorney’s Office-District of Utah, Attn: Environmental Justice Coordinator, 111 South Main Street, Suite 1800, Salt Lake City, Utah 84111-2176 A focus of the Department of Justice, on May 5, 2022, the Attorney General announced actions to enhance and advance the Department’s environmental justice work. Among other EJ efforts, the Department issued a Comprehensive Environmental Justice Enforcement Strategy (the Strategy) and created the Office of Environmental Justice (OEJ) within the Environment and Natural Resources Division (ENRD). The strategy requires USAO offices to track and report annually on environmental justice matters


title: Federal Grand Jury Returns 38-Count Indictment Charging Methamphetamine and Firearms Offenses

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on May 17, 2023, charging eight Louisville men with multiple methamphetamine distribution and firearms offenses. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge J. Todd Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Bryant Jackson of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, and Chief Jacquelyn Gwinn-Villaroel of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement. According to the indictment, Dominique Lewis, 22, Bryan Foster, 28, Phillip Shoulders, 23, Laron Broome, 23, Erick Richie, 28, Chance Rogers, 22, Coreion Toogood, 26, and Devontae Lindsey, 25, all of Louisville Kentucky, are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Beginning as early as October 17, 2022, and continuing through March 29, 2023, the defendants conspired to distribute 500 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture. Lewis is also charged with twelve counts of distribution of varying amounts of a methamphetamine mixture, six counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and five counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Lewis was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On August 3, 2020, in Shelby Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of theft by unlawful taking (two counts) and criminal mischief in the first degree (two counts). On August 3, 2021, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of receiving stolen property, criminal mischief in the first degree (two counts), wanton endangerment in the first degree, and fleeing or evading police in the first degree. On March 10, 2022, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of theft by unlawful taking. Foster is also charged with five counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, three counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Foster was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following domestic violence cases. On August 2, 2016, in Henderson District Court, Foster was convicted of assault in the fourth-degree domestic violence minor injury. On May 23, 2017, in Henderson District Court, Foster was convicted of assault in the fourth-degree domestic violence minor injury. Shoulders is also charged with three counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Shoulders was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses. On January 2, 2019, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Shoulders was convicted of wanton endangerment in the first degree (three counts) and receiving a stolen firearm. Broome is also charged with one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Broome was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offense. On May 13, 2022, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Broome was convicted of receiving stolen property. Rogers is also charged with two counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture. Richie, Toogood, and Lindsey are each also charged with one count of distribution of 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture. Defendants Foster, Shoulders, Broome, Richie, Toogood, and Lindsey recently made their initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Defendants Lewis and Rogers are in state custody and will make their initial appearances later. If convicted, the defendants face a minimum sentence of ten years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system. This case is being investigated by ATF, DEA, IRS-CI, and the Louisville Metro Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Porter is prosecuting the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF. An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Two Raytown Residents Plead Guilty to Covid Fraud Conspiracy

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Raytown, Mo., residents have pleaded guilty in federal court to their roles in a conspiracy to obtain fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans being issued under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. Deanna N. Brand, 27, waived her right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty today before U.S. District Judge Brian C. Wimes to a federal information that charges her with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud. In a separate but related case, Jason Collins, 26, pleaded guilty on Thursday, May 18, to the same offense. Brand and Collins each admitted they participated in a conspiracy to defraud the U.S. Small Business Administration from April 2021 through January 2022. Both Brand and Collins provided their personal identification information to a co-conspirator, who then submitted fraudulent applications for PPP loans in their names. The applications falsely claimed business income in order to receive a $20,832 loan, although neither Brand nor Collins had a business during that time. Brand admitted she paid her co-conspirator $2,000, and spent the rest of the loan proceeds on personal expenses not associated with any business. Collins admitted he paid his co-conspirator $5,000 and spent the rest of the loan proceeds on personal expenses not associated with any business. Under the terms of their plea agreements, Brand and Collins each must pay $20,832 in restitution to the government. Under federal statutes, Brand and Collins each are subject to a sentence of up to five years in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled after the completion of presentence investigations by the United States Probation Office. These cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul S. Becker. They were investigated by IRS-Criminal Investigation and the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department.


title: Bridgeport Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Heroin Trafficking Ring

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JONATHAN BROWN, 46, of Bridgeport, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Vanessa L. Bryant in Hartford to 125 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his role in a large-scale heroin trafficking ring. According to court documents and statements made in court, Brown was a close associate of Ivan Rosario, also known as “Ghost,” who headed a Bridgeport-based heroin trafficking organization that, between approximately April 2015 and March 2017, received at least 30 kilograms of heroin that had been transported from Mexico to Bridgeport hidden inside motorcycles equipped with secret compartments. The organization then distributed the drug in the Bridgeport area. Brown, with the help of his girlfriend, a Bridgeport real estate agent, assisted Rosario in securing “stash houses” that were used by the organization to store and process narcotics. At times, he also helped package and distribute narcotics. In October 2015, law enforcement stopped a car Wilfredo Rosado-Rodriguez was driving and seized approximately $120,000 in suspected drug proceeds that he was couriering to New York. On February 14, 2017, Jose David Silva Pestano, a Mexican national, was arrested in Nogales, Arizona, after he crossed the border on a motorcycle carrying nearly 12 kilograms of heroin in a concealed compartment. Brown was arrested on March 3, 2017. On March 16, 2017, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Brown, Rosario, Rosado-Rodriguez, Silva Pestano, and three other individuals with heroin trafficking and related offenses. Following his arrest, Brown was released on a $250,000 bond. He was scheduled to plead guilty on March 5, 2018, but failed to appear for his court proceeding. Brown was located and arrested in Mexico in September 2019, and has been detained since that time. On December 22, 2022, Brown pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin. Brown’s criminal history includes a federal conviction in November 2012 for possession of ammunition by a felon. He was sentenced to 34 months of imprisonment for that offense. Rosario, Rosado-Rodriguez, and Silva Pestano were convicted of related charges. On July 18, 2019, Rosario was sentenced to 210 months of imprisonment, on April 19, 2023, Rosado-Rodriguez was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment, and on June 27, 2018, Silva Pestano was sentenced to 87 months of imprisonment. This matter was investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force, DEA’s Bridgeport High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, Bridgeport Police Department and Stratford Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert S. Ruff and Natasha M. Freismuth through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF .


title: Former City of Miami Aide Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Crime

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – Today, Rene Pedrosa, 51, pleaded guilty in federal court in Miami to receiving child pornography in 2019 from a 16-year-old boy. According to a factual proffer filed with the court, in November 2019, Pedrosa connected with the boy on social media. Pedrosa, who at the time worked as an aide to the City of Miami mayor, communicated with the boy on social media and in person about a website design job for Pedrosa’s boss. One meeting took place at Miami City Hall on November 25, 2019. Pedrosa admitted that during the meeting, he kissed and sexually touched the boy, who had been dropped off at City Hall for a website design follow-up meeting by his mother. Pedrosa also admitted that he continued communicating with the boy through an internet-based messaging application and that on December 22, 2019, Pedrosa knowingly received sexually explicit images of the boy. Pedrosa is scheduled for sentencing on August 14, at 8:30 a.m. before U.S. District Judge Robert N. Scola. Pedrosa faces between five and 20 years in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of the FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement. FBI Miami investigated the case, with assistance from City of Miami Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Obenauf and Dayron Silverio are prosecuting it. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood (PSC), 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’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 the Project Safe Childhood initiative and for information regarding Internet safety, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov under case number 21-cr-20259. ###


title: Jury Finds Former Pittsburgh Man Guilty of Possession of Contraband in Prison

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH - After deliberating thirty-five minutes, a federal jury of six men and six women found James Taric Byrd guilty of one count of possession of contraband in prison, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Byrd, age 46, was tried before United States District Judge Cathy Bissoon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. According to Assistant United States Attorney Brendan T. Conway, who prosecuted the case, the evidence presented at trial established that Byrd, while an inmate at the Allegheny County Jail, possessed a cellular telephone, which is a prohibited object inside the Allegheny County Jail. Judge Bissoon scheduled sentencing for May 30, 2023 The law provides for a total sentence of one years in prison, a fine of $100,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based on the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. The Allegheny County Police, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshal Service conducted the investigation that led to the prosecution of Byrd.


title: Two Accused of Stealing Mail from St. Louis County Collection Boxes

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – Two men appeared in U.S. District Court in St. Louis Wednesday to answer an indictment accusing them of stealing mail from collection boxes in St. Louis County, Missouri and using those checks to commit bank fraud. Dareon Graham, 22, of Ferguson, and Tyrell Hardin, 20, of Hanley Hills, pleaded not guilty Wednesday. Hardin is facing one conspiracy count and eight counts of mail theft. Graham was indicted on one conspiracy count, 13 counts of bank fraud, four counts of possession of stolen mail and four counts of aggravated identity theft. The April 26 indictment says Graham used a stolen key to open mail collection boxes and steal mail and paid money to Hardin to do the same. The pair would then open the mail and remove personal and business checks, the indictment says. Graham then recruited others to provide their banking information so he could alter the checks and deposit them into the accounts, the indictment says. Each check was written for thousands of dollars. Graham would then withdraw cash at ATMs before the banks realized the checks were fraudulent, the indictment says. The conspiracy, mail theft and stolen mail charges carry a penalty of up to five years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both. The bank fraud charges are punishable by up to 30 years in prison, a $1 million fine or both. Each aggravated identity theft charge carries a two-year prison term, consecutive to any other charge. Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Clow is prosecuting the case.


title: Hattiesburg Man Sentenced to over Ten Years in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: Hattiesburg, Miss. – A Hattiesburg man was sentenced to 125 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Special Agent in Charge Brad Byerley of the Drug Enforcement Administration. According to court records, on March 4, 2020, Nicholas Walker, 39, sold 223.5 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential source in Covington County for $2,000. Walker was indicted by a federal grand jury and pled guilty on February 16, 2023. The Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Erica Rose This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor- led, intelligence driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.


title: California Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Methamphetamine in California and New Hampshire

component: USAO - New Hampshire

body_text: CONCORD – A California man was sentenced today in federal court for trafficking methamphetamine in California and New Hampshire, U.S. Attorney Jane E. Young announces. Robert Perez, Jr., 33, formerly of Perris, California was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Steven J. McAuliffe to 10 years in prison and three years of supervised release. On February 8, 2023, Perez plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. “This office continues to aggressively prosecute those who traffic large quantities of narcotics into New Hampshire,” said U.S. Attorney Young. “Like fentanyl, methamphetamine is an insidiously dangerous drug, and its use directly contributes to New Hampshire’s overdose death toll. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of federal, state, and local law enforcement, we were able to bring the defendant to justice and ensure his incarceration for a lengthy period.” Beginning in late-2020 or early 2021, Perez conspired with individuals in California and New Hampshire to ship a total of approximately 30 pounds of methamphetamine through the U.S. Postal Service from California to several individuals in New Hampshire for distribution. In August 2022, United States Drug Enforcement agents from New Hampshire travelled to Riverside, California, and arrested Perez. “DEA stands committed to keeping highly addictive drugs like methamphetamine off the streets of New Hampshire,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Boyle. “Today’s sentence not only holds Mr. Perez accountable for his crimes but serves as a warning to those traffickers who are contributing to the drug crisis in the Granite State. This investigation demonstrates the strength of collaborative law enforcement efforts and our strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office.” “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service aims to identify and disrupt drug traffickers across the country, more importantly, here in our community” said Ketty Larco-Ward, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Division. “Postal Inspectors accomplish this by focusing on illicit drug mailers and by maintaining an aggressive drug parcel-detection program. We will continue to coordinate with our law enforcement partners to dismantle drug trafficking involving the U.S. Mail.” The United States Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service lead the investigation. Valuable assistance was provided by the New Hampshire State Police and the Nashua Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer C. Davis. ###


title: St. Louis County Felon Accused of Possessing Nearly 1 Kilogram of Fentanyl

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A convicted felon from Wellston, Missouri has been federally indicted and accused of possessing nearly one kilogram of fentanyl and 700 grams of crack cocaine. Devion X. Gordon, 28, was charged by complaint May 9 and indicted by a grand jury May 17. He now faces charges of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute cocaine base, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Charging and court documents say that an investigation by the FBI and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department resulted in a court-approved search of Gordon’s home on May 9. Investigators found a loaded Glock pistol, drug paraphernalia, about 965 grams of fentanyl, about 700 grams of cocaine base and approximately $18,000 in cash. The fentanyl charge is punishable by a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison, and the cocaine base and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug crime charges each carry a five-year mandatory minimum. Charges set forth in an indictment are merely accusations and do not constitute proof of guilt. Every defendant is presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty. The FBI and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Goeke is prosecuting the case.


title: Cocaine Trafficker Sentenced To 222 Months In Prison

component: USAO - New York, Southern

body_text: Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, announced that VICENTE ESTEVES, a/k/a “El Bori,” was sentenced to 222 months in prison for being a supervisor in a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute at least 150 kilograms of cocaine, which ESTEVES and his coconspirators hoped to import from Puerto Rico. ESTEVES was convicted on August 4, 2022 following an eight-day jury trial. Codefendants Heiver Ruiz-Patozano, Luis Gonzalez-Maldonado, and Alexander Almonte-Macea were previously sentenced for participating in the conspiracy by U.S. District Judge John G. Koeltl, who also imposed today’s sentence. U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “The business of cocaine ruins lives, destroys families, and foments violence. Vicente Esteves returned to that business barely a year removed from serving a sentence for trafficking thousands of kilograms of cocaine into our communities. Today’s sentence makes clear that this Office and our law enforcement partners will work tirelessly to ensure that the business of drug trafficking does not pay for anyone—least of all kingpins like Esteves.” According to the Superseding Indictment and the evidence at trial: Between at least in or about September 2020 and in or about December 2020, ESTEVES belonged to a New York/New Jersey-based drug trafficking organization (“DTO”) that attempted to purchase 150 kilograms of cocaine from purported Colombian suppliers, who were in fact undercover law enforcement agents. The DTO negotiated for the delivery of the cocaine in Puerto Rico, with the delivery of the purchase money in the Bronx, New York. On the day of the exchange, December 4, 2020, ESTEVES and coconspirators arrived in the Bronx to complete the transaction with two suitcases stuffed with more than $1.3 million cash, which was intended as a payment for part of the overall 150-kilogram transaction. A third suitcase, containing more than $644,000 in additional cash, was later recovered in a stash house that ESTEVES and coconspirators met at before the transaction. During the transaction, a coconspirator described ESTEVES as “El Jefe”—that is, “the boss.” ESTEVES participated in this conspiracy less than a year after being released on parole from a prior sentence for drug trafficking offenses. Specifically, ESTEVES previously pled guilty to being the leader of a transnational drug enterprise that trafficked thousands of kilograms of cocaine—worth hundreds of millions of dollars—into the U.S.. In connection with that prior drug trafficking conduct, ESTEVES also admitted to conspiring with his then-defense attorney to kill potential witnesses. * * * Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the New York City Police Department, the New York State Police, the Office of the Special Narcotics Prosecutor, Homeland Security Investigations, the Middlesex County Prosecutor’s Office, and the Edison Police Department. The case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit. Assistant United States Attorneys Jun Xiang, Ashley Nicolas, and Frank Balsamello are in charge of the prosecution. 23-193 ###


title: Pennsylvania Man Sentenced for Assaulting Officers During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach

body_text: WASHINGTON – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced today in the District of Columbia for assaulting law enforcement officers and other charges for his actions on Jan. 6, 2021. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the presidential election. Robert Morss, (29), of Glenshaw, Pennsylvania, was sentenced to 66 months in prison for assaulting, resisting, or impeding officers with a dangerous weapon, obstruction of an official proceeding, and robbery. Morss was convicted on August 23, 2022, following a stipulated trial before U.S. District Court Judge Trevor N. McFadden, who also ordered 24 months of supervised release and restitution of $2000. Morss was charged along with 8 other co-defendants. Six of the codefendants, including Morss, have now been sentenced for their roles in the riot, while three codefendants are scheduled for trial later in 2023. According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, all of the codefendants illegally entered the Capitol grounds. They joined in the violence that occurred in the tunnel area of the Capitol’s Lower West Terrace. From approximately 2:40 p.m., law enforcement officers maintained a line at the second set of glass doors inside the tunnel leading from the inaugural platform to the entrance to the Capitol. These officers fought a group of rioters – including the defendants - inside the tunnel, protecting the doors, until approximately 3:19 p.m. when they cleared them from the tunnel. Clashes continued throughout the afternoon. Morss joined the crowd gathering on the West Front of the Capitol grounds at approximately 2 p.m. He was wearing a vest with body armor plates and had a black knife sheath and scissors. Morss moved to the front of the line of rioters squaring off with law enforcement officers. He then attempted to steal a police-issued baton from an officer with the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). He also removed a bike rack fence from the immediate control of an MPD sergeant, leaving no barrier between the police officers and rioters. He yelled out to several officers, “Take a look around. We are going to take our Capitol back.” Morss then joined a line of rioters that pushed officers back and followed them up to the Lower West Terrace. At approximately 3:03 p.m., he participated in a heave-ho motion in which the rioters rocked against the police line. He wrested a riot shield from an MPD detective and passed it back in the tunnel, towards other rioters. He and others then created a wall of shields that they used to continue with the heave-ho efforts. Morss later joined several other rioters in climbing through a broken window. Morss entered an office within the Capitol, took a chair, and passed it out of the broken window to the rioters outside. Morss was arrested on June 11, 2021. This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western District of Pennsylvania, the Eastern District of Texas, and the Eastern District of Virginia. The cases were investigated by the FBI’s Washington, Pittsburgh, and Dallas Field Offices. Morss was identified as #147 on the FBI Washington Field Office’s seeking information photos. Valuable assistance was provided by the FBI’s Richmond Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department and the U.S. Capitol Police. In the 28 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,000 individuals have been arrested in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 320 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement. The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.


title: Great Falls fentanyl trafficker sentenced to 30 months in prison

component: USAO - Montana

body_text: GREAT FALLS — A Great Falls man who admitted to trafficking fentanyl in the community was sentenced today to 30 months in prison, to be followed by four years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Kevin Clarence Bell, 45, pleaded guilty in January to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. In court documents, the government alleged that in October 2021, law enforcement in Great Falls began receiving information about individuals distributing fentanyl pills and that the distributors received fentanyl pills in the mail from out-of-state sources. In November 2021, law enforcement seized 372 fentanyl pills from Bell’s son and co-defendant Ian Stewart. Following Stewart’s arrest, agents learned that Bell was making trips to Phoenix, Arizona, and the group was receiving packages of fentanyl from Phoenix. In January 2022, law enforcement seized a package intended for Bell and another individual. The package contained 642 fentanyl pills, which was worth approximately $25,000 to $30,000. Stewart has pleaded guilty to charges in the case and is pending sentencing. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica A. Betley prosecuted the case. The Russell Country Drug Task Force, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Great Falls Police Department conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Cooperation Between United States and Mexican Law Enforcement Leads to Mexican Takedown of Significant Firearms Trafficker

component: USAO - Arizona

number: 2023-075_Jose Bacasegua-Barriga

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Michel Bacasegua-Barriga, the leader of a prolific transnational firearms trafficking organization operating in Nogales, Sonora, along the U.S.-Mexico border, was arrested last week by Mexico’s Attorney General’s Office, Fiscalía General de la República (FGR). The enforcement operation last week by the FGR is the result of extensive bilateral cooperation between the United States and Mexico. In addition to Bacasegua-Barriga’s arrest, the operation resulted in the seizure of firearms and ammunition. Four U.S.-based coordinators and operators with alleged ties to the same firearms trafficking organization have been indicted. Jose Bacasegua-Barriga, Mike Anthony Gomez-Lozada, Marco Olguin-Torres, and Pedro Perez-Trujillo were indicted by a federal grand jury on firearms trafficking charges on December 8, 2022. “I would like to commend our law enforcement partners, both here in the United States and in the Republic of Mexico, for their hard work on this investigation,” said U.S. Attorney Gary Restaino. “Stopping the flow of American firearms to Mexican drug-trafficking organizations will help break the cycle of violence, death, and destabilization. This joint investigation between our two countries demonstrates how much we can achieve together for our mutual benefit.” This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) – Nogales led the investigation in the United States, working in concert with HSI-Tucson, HSI-Casa Grande, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Phoenix, Drug Enforcement Administration – Nogales, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, and the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Support by HSI – Mexico City, with the assistance of HSI's Transnational Criminal Investigative Unit (TCIU) – Mexico, was critical in facilitating coordination between United States and Mexican law enforcement agencies. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is prosecuting the four individuals named above. CASE NUMBER: CR-22-2653-TUC-JGZ (LCK) RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-075_Jose Bacasegua-Barriga, et al. # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Two Convicted for Roles in Drug Trafficking Organization with Ties to Mexican Cartel

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – Two men were convicted today by a federal jury in Boston for operating a large-scale international fentanyl trafficking and money laundering conspiracy. Fermin Castillo, 43, of Boston, and Andre Heraux Martinez, 24, of the Dominican Republic, were convicted following a seven-day jury trial of conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and conspiracy to commit money laundering. U.S. Senior District Court Judge William G. Young scheduled sentencing for Sept. 12, 2023. Castillo and Heraux were indicted on April 15, 2021. In July 2020, law enforcement began an investigation into a drug trafficking and money laundering organization distributing large quantities of fentanyl and laundering drug proceeds. Intercepted communications identified Fermin Castillo as the leader of the organization who coordinated fentanyl shipments from Sinaloa, Mexico to Massachusetts and the laundering of hundreds of thousands of dollars. As part of the conspiracy, Heraux maintained a drug stash apartment located in Hyde Park, which was used to store and process kilograms of fentanyl and delivered a total of over $500,000 in drug proceeds to undercover officers posing as money launderers. In August 2020, Castillo coordinated the delivery of $200,000 to a separate New York-based money laundering organization, as well as the delivery of $100,000 to an undercover officer in December 2020. In January 2021, Castillo coordinated the delivery of $150,000 which was ultimately seized from Heraux as he attempted to deliver the money on behalf of Castillo. Additionally, in February 2021, 197 grams of fentanyl was seized from Heraux as he attempted to deliver the drugs to a customer of the organization. In total, over 10 kilograms of fentanyl and heroin were seized from Heraux’s stash apartment along with additional fentanyl from other members of the drug trafficking and money laundering organization. The charge of conspiracy to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl provides for a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and up to life in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $10 million. The charge of conspiracy to commit money laundering provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, at least three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $500,000, or twice the value of the funds laundered, whichever is greater. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, New England Field Division; and John E. Mawn Jr., Interim Colonel of the Massachusetts State Police made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Leah B. Foley and Stephen W. Hassink of Levy’s Narcotics & Money Laundering Unit are prosecuting the case. This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Strike Force Initiative, which provides for the establishment of permanent multi-agency task force teams that work side-by-side in the same location. This co-located model enables agents from different agencies to collaborate on intelligence-driven, multi-jurisdictional operations to disrupt and dismantle the most significant drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.


title: Fentanyl Traffickers Arraigned Today In Federal Court

component: USAO - Arkansas, Eastern

body_text: LITTLE ROCK— Nine people appeared today before United States Magistrate Judge Joe. J. Volpe after being arrested Tuesday morning on charges of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl between June 2022 and March 2023. Andre Kimble, 40, of Little Rock, and nine others were named in this latest round of indictments related to “Operation Hartbreak Kid.” Kimble led a large-scale fentanyl-trafficking organization, which sold the drug from various motels in the Little Rock area. The investigation was led by the Drug Enforcement Administration, in cooperation with the Little Rock Police Department, the North Little Rock Police Department, the Pulaski County Sheriff’s Office, the Arkansas Department of Community Corrections, and the Arkansas State Police. Throughout the investigation, law enforcement seized eight firearms and more than $20,000. Several of the defendants charged have multiple prior felony convictions and, should they be convicted, will be facing enhanced penalties for drug trafficking and possessing firearms. The defendants arrested include Kimble, Jerry Wesley, 64, Henry White, 31, Eric James, 43, Frankie Webb, 44, Giovaughnie Criswell, 42, Amethyst Schmued, 33, Shelton Graham, 33, and Billy Joe Cooksey, 40, all of Little Rock. One defendant remains at large. In addition to drug conspiracy charges, some defendants are also facing charges for possession of a firearm by a felon, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and money laundering. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Anne Gardner. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . An indictment contains only allegations. Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. # # # This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar Twitter: @EDARNEWS


title: Penobscot Man Faces up to 40 Years, $5M fine for Fentanyl Trafficking

body_text: BANGOR, Maine: A Penobscot man pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Bangor to possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute. According to court records, in October 2021, Christopher Beaucage , 38, along with a co-conspirator, were stopped by a Bucksport police officer. After a search of the vehicle revealed approximately 60 grams of fentanyl, Beaucage admitted the fentanyl belonged to him and was arrested on outstanding warrants. While he was incarcerated, monitored and recorded phone calls revealed that Beaucage and others engaged in drug trafficking activities. Details discussed included traveling out of state to meet with a source, the prices of the narcotics and customers in Maine. Beaucage faces up to 40 years in prison and a $5 million fine. He will be sentenced after the completion of a presentence investigative report by the U.S. Probation Office. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, Maine Drug Enforcement Agency and Bucksport Police Department investigated the case. ###


title: Mexican Citizen Sentenced to Prison for Assaulting a Border Patrol Agent and Illegally Entering the United States

component: USAO - New York, Northern

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Nectar Alfonso-Ramirez, age 28, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced today to 12 months in prison for unlawfully entering the United States and assaulting and resisting a federal agent, announced United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Chief Patrol Agent Robert N. Garcia, United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector. As part of his prior guilty plea, Alfonso-Ramirez admitted that, on October 4, 2022, he entered the United States on foot from Canada at a location not authorized for the entrance of immigrants. Border Patrol Agents encountered Alfonso-Ramirez and ordered him to halt. Alfonso-Ramirez admitted that he initially stopped, but then fled into the nearby woods, causing a foot pursuit. While a border patrol agent attempted to place him under arrest, Alfonso-Ramirez tried to escape, yelling at the agent, thrashing his body, swinging his arms, and kicking his legs. United States District Judge David N. Hurd did not order a term of supervised release, because Alfonso-Ramirez will likely be deported to Mexico upon his release from prison. The United States Border Patrol investigated the case, and it was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica N. Carbone.


title: Charleston Man Sentenced to Prison for Federal Drug Crime

component: USAO - West Virginia, Southern

body_text: CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Dillon Shane Browning, 31, of Charleston, was sentenced today to five years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. According to court documents and statements made in court, on February 22, 2021, Browning sold approximately 13.77 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant at his Charleston residence. Browning admitted to that transaction and to selling approximately one-half of an ounce of methamphetamine to the confidential informant at his Charleston residence on March 12, 2021. After the second transaction, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Browning’s residence and found approximately 233 grams of methamphetamine in an outbuilding. Browning admitted to possessing the methamphetamine and further admitted that he intended to sell it in the Charleston area. United States Attorney Will Thompson made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT). Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Hanks prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-6. ###


title: Life In Federal Prison For Pope County Drug Trafficker Associated With White Supremacist Gang

component: U.S. Attorneys (USAO)

body_text: LITTLE ROCK— Marcus Millsap, 55, of Little Rock, was sentenced to life in federal prison for conspiracy to violate racketeering laws, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Millsap was sentenced earlier today by United States District Judge Brian S. Miller. Millsap was indicted in September 2019 for his involvement in a white supremacist prison gang known as the “New Aryan Empire,” or NAE. NAE’s slogan is “to the dirt,” referring to the fact that members must remain in the organization until they die. Millsap was charged with, and ultimately convicted of, conspiracy to violate racketeering influenced corrupt organization laws, or RICO, attempted murder in aid of racketeering, and drug conspiracy. Evidence at trial established that Millsap and others used the NAE as a corrupt organization to conduct racketeering activities, including drug distribution, solicitations of murder, and attempted murder. At trial, the prosecution presented evidence that in May 2014, Millsap sold methamphetamine to an individual named Bruce Hurley, who was working as a confidential informant. Once Hurley completed the controlled purchase of methamphetamine and reported back to law enforcement, a traffic stop located more methamphetamine in Millsap’s vehicle. Millsap was convicted in the methamphetamine case, and while on an appeal bond, Millsap solicited members and associates of NAE to kill Hurley for his work in cooperating with law enforcement against Millsap. In January 2016, other NAE members attempted to murder Hurley. That attempt failed, and NAE members and associates continued attempting to arrange Hurley’s death. This conduct resulted in Millsap’s conviction for attempted murder in aid of racketeering. “The United States will not tolerate the vile and outrageous crimes committed by members and associates of the New Aryan Empire or any other white supremacist group,” said Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas. “If you are a member or associate of this or any other violent criminal organization, know that the United States will stop at nothing to dismantle and disrupt those who pose a threat to our communities and the future of our children, and the United States will seek significant prison sentences.” In addition to the life sentence, Millsap was ordered to pay a $200,000 fine and was sentenced to 10 years of supervised release should he ever be released from prison. The investigation was conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms; the Drug Enforcement Administration; the Federal Bureau of Investigation; the Pope County Sheriff’s Office; the Russellville Police Department; the U.S. Marshals Service; the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; the Arkansas State Police; 5 th Judicial Drug Task Force; the Conway Police Department, and the Arkansas Army National Guard’s Counterdrug Unit. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Liza Brown and Stephanie Mazzanti. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . # # # This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at https://www.justice.gov/edar Twitter: @EDARNEWS


title: Jackson Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon

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

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man pled guilty to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, announced U.S. Attorney Darren J. LaMarca and Acting Special Agent in Charge Anthony Spotswood of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Jerry Shannon McAlister, 47, pled guilty in U.S. District Court in Jackson. According to court records, on July 21, 2021, officers with the Clinton Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop of McAlister. McAlister failed to stop, leading to the pursuit and detention of McAlister. He was found to be in the possession of a firearm. He has multiple previous felony convictions, and it is a violation of federal law for a convicted felon to possess any firearm. McAlister is scheduled to be sentenced on August 24, 2023, and he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The Clinton Police Department and the ATF investigated the case, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matt Allen is prosecuting. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Lame Deer man sentenced to nine years in prison for sexually abusing girl on Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation

body_text: BILLINGS — A Lame Deer man who admitted to sexually abusing a child in 2015 on the Northern Cheyenne Indian Reservation was sentenced today to nine years in prison, to be followed by 10 years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Jordan Joseph Backer, 27, pleaded guilty in February to abusive sexual contact. U.S. District Judge Dana L. Christensen presided. The government alleged that in 2021, law enforcement received a Cybertip from Facebook that indicated an account associated with Backer had an image of suspected sexual abuse of a child, resembling Jane Doe. Law enforcement responded to Backer’s residence but were unable to make any determinations about the child’s identity or what had happened. In September 2022, Jane Doe disclosed that Backer had sexually abused her in 2015, when she was approximately six years old and visiting family on the reservation. When interviewed, Backer admitted to sexually abusing Jane Doe. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zeno B. Baucus prosecuted the case. The FBI and Northern Cheyenne Investigative Services conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Owners of San Diego Restaurants Charged with COVID-Relief Fraud and Money Laundering

component: USAO - California, Southern

body_text: NEWS RELEASE SUMMARY — May 23, 2023 SAN DIEGO—A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging San Diego restaurant owners with fraud and money laundering in connection with an alleged scheme to falsify applications for pandemic relief funds. According to the indictment, Leronce Suel and Ravae Smith owned Rockstar Dough LLC and Chicken Feed LLC, both of which operated a series of restaurants in the San Diego area. From March 2020 to June 2022, Suel and Smith allegedly conspired to underreport over $1.7 million in gross receipts on Rockstar Dough LLC’s 2020 corporate tax return (Form 1120S) filed with the IRS in order to qualify for the COVID-related Paycheck Protection Program and Restaurant Revitalization Funding loans. Suel and Smith also allegedly made materially false certifications on loan applications regarding the use of the money. The indictment charges that Suel and Smith made substantial cash withdrawals from their business bank accounts to launder the fraudulently obtained funds. As part of the conspiracy, Suel and Smith allegedly concealed more than $2.4 million in cash at their residence. Suel and Smith made their initial court appearance today before U.S. Magistrate Judge William V. Gallo. “During an unprecedented public health emergency, the United States provided these loan programs to deliver economic relief to Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Randy Grossman. “This office will investigate and prosecute those who exploited the global pandemic to unjustly enrich themselves.” Grossman thanked the prosecution team and the IRS for their excellent work on this case . “The CARES Act was passed to aid those in need and provide much needed relief during the Covid-19 pandemic,” said Special Agent in Charge Tyler Hatcher of the Los Angeles Field Office. “Unfortunately, there are individuals and organizations who took advantage and targeted these programs to steal funds. Submitting false returns in support of a fraudulent loan application is a crime. IRS-CI is committed to aggressively investigating these crimes and bringing those to justice who stole funds and targeted relief programs during the pandemic.” The Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act is a federal law enacted on March 29, 2020 and is designed to provide emergency financial assistance to the millions of Americans who are suffering the economic effects caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. One source of relief provided by the CARES Act was the authorization of up to $349 billion in forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other expenses, through the PPP. In April 2020, Congress authorized over $300 billion in additional PPP funding. Anyone with general information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney Christopher Beeler and Trial Attorney Julia M. Rugg from the Department of Justice’s Tax Division. DEFENDANT Case Number 23-CR-0965-RBM Leronce Suel San Diego Age: 46 RaVae Smith San Diego Age: 45 SUMMARY OF CHARGES Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud—Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1349 Maximum penalty: Thirty years in prison, $1 million fine; forfeiture and restitution Wire Fraud—Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1343 Maximum penalty: Thirty years in prison, $1 million fine; forfeiture and restitution Money Laundering—Title 18, U.S.C. Section 1957 Maximum penalty: Ten years in prison, $1 million fine; forfeiture and restitution AGENCY IRS Criminal Investigation *The charges and allegations contained in an indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Colorado City Man and 10 Members of Polygamist Sect Charged with Illicit Sexual Conduct with Minors, and Related Crimes

number: 2023-076_Bateman, et al.

body_text: PHOENIX, Ariz. – Samuel Rappylee Bateman, 47, of Colorado City, Arizona, along with 10 of his followers, were indicted on May 18, 2023, by a federal grand jury on charges relating to a years-long conspiracy to travel across state lines in order to amass “wives” for Bateman, including minor girls. The grand jury returned a Second Superseding Indictment, which was unsealed today, in the case of United States of America v. Samuel Rappylee Bateman, et al. The Second Superseding Indictment alleges that Bateman, the self-proclaimed leader of a polygamist sect in Colorado City, Arizona, began amassing “wives” from among his followers in several states. In order to claim these “wives”—10 of whom were under the age of 18—Bateman travelled extensively between Nebraska, Utah, Colorado, and Arizona. Throughout the conspiracy, Bateman had sex with the minor girls on a regular basis. Bateman was previously charged federally by Indictment in September 2022 with destruction of records in an official proceeding, tampering with an official proceeding, and destruction of records in a federal investigation. A First Superseding Indictment was returned by the federal grand jury in December 2022, adding charges against Bateman and adding three co-conspirators—Naomi Bistline, Donnae Barlow, and Moretta Rose Johnson—on charges of tampering with an official proceeding and conspiracy to tamper with an official proceeding, as well as kidnapping and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. Among other things, all of these defendants were charged with unlawfully removing minors from the custody of the Arizona Department of Child Safety and fleeing across state lines in order to evade law enforcement. The most serious of these charges, the kidnapping counts, are punishable by up to life in prison. The Second Superseding Indictment unsealed today realleges these prior crimes and includes additional charges against Bateman. Among other things, Bateman is charged with conspiracy to transport a minor for criminal sexual activity, conspiracy to travel across state lines to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor, using a means of interstate commerce to persuade or coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity, and interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor. The Second Superseding Indictment further alleges that a number of Bateman’s followers participated in several of these alleged crimes as co-conspirators, including defendants Josephine Barlow Bistline, Leia Bistline, Torrance Bistline, LaDell Bistline, Jr., Leilani Bistline, and Brenda Barlow. The Second Superseding Indictment also charges Bateman with production of child pornography. It alleges that in late November 2020, Bateman coordinated group sexual activity in a hotel room in Colorado Springs, Colorado, with some of his followers, including minor girls. Bateman is alleged to have then coordinated a video call to a follower in Colorado City, Arizona, in which the video participants, including a minor, were naked. Production of child pornography carries a maximum term of 30 years in prison, with a mandatory minimum term of 15 years in prison. The Second Superseding Indictment also charges defendant LaDell Bistline, Jr. with receiving child pornography, while a number of the defendants, including Bateman, Josephine Barlow Bistline, LaDell Bistline, Jr., Brenda Barlow, and Marona Johnson are charged with distributing obscene material to a minor. Finally, the Second Superseding Indictment includes charges for obstructive conduct lasting into at least March 2023. Bateman is charged with witness tampering, while Josephine Barlow Bistline is charged with attempted obstruction of a criminal prosecution, making interstate threats, and cyberstalking arising out of threatening conduct toward employees of the Arizona Department of Child Safety. An indictment is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The status of the co-conspirators/defendants charged in the Second Superseding Indictment is as follows: Bateman remains in federal custody pending trial. He, along with defendants Naomi Bistline, Donnae Barlow, and Moretta Rose Johnson, who are also in federal custody, will have initial appearances and be arraigned on Friday, May 26, at 11:45 a.m. in Phoenix, Arizona. Josephine Barlow Bistline had an initial appearance Monday in federal court in Phoenix, Arizona. She also is currently detained pending trial. Leilani (Bistline) Barlow had an initial appearance this morning in federal court in Flagstaff, Arizona, during which she clarified that she is a Barlow and not a Bistline. She is temporarily detained pending a detention hearing on May 30, which also will be in federal court in Flagstaff, Arizona. LaDell Bistline, Jr., Torrance Bistline, Brenda Barlow, Leia Bistline, and Marona Johnson, were all arrested earlier this week. They will have initial appearances tomorrow, May 25, in federal court in St. George, Utah. The Phoenix Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is handling the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Phoenix, is handling the prosecution. The United States Attorney’s Office continues to extend special gratitude to the Arizona Department of Child Safety for its work protecting Arizona children impacted by this matter, as well as the Arizona Department of Public Safety, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah; the Colorado City Police Department; the Iron County (Utah) Sheriff’s Office; the Washington County (Utah) Attorney’s Office; the Washington County (Utah) Sheriff’s Office; the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations in St. George, Utah; the U.S. Marshals Service in St. George, Utah; and the St. George Resident Agency of the FBI’s Salt Lake City Field Office for their assistance in this matter. CASE NUMBER: CR-22-08092-PCT-DGC (ESW) RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-076_Bateman, et al. # # # For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/ Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on Twitter @USAO_AZ for the latest news.


title: Angelina County Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking

body_text: BEAUMONT, Texas – A Diboll man has been sentenced to over 13 years in federal prison for drug trafficking violations in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Damien M. Diggs today. Gonzalo Alonso Torres, 46, pleaded guilty on July 14, 2022, to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and was sentenced to 162 months in federal prison today by U.S. District Judge Marcia A. Crone. According to information presented in court, in 2019, local, state, and federal law enforcement began investigating Torres’ drug trafficking activities. On Sep. 18, 2019, law enforcement was able to set up a methamphetamine purchase between Torres and another person. Torres placed the methamphetamine in a mailbox for the customer to retrieve. Officers then confiscated the drugs. In October 2019 on two separate occasions law enforcement again arranged for the purchase of methamphetamine using another person. Torres was indicted by a federal grand jury on April 6, 2022 and charged with federal drug trafficking violations. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Texas Department of Public Safety, the Diboll Police Department, and the Angelina County Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Donald S. Carter. ###


title: Essex County Man Admits Shooting of Former Federal Informant

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man admitted that he attempted to kill a former federal informant by shooting him, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today. Kalil Bryant, 40, of East Orange, New Jersey pleaded guilty on May 23, 2023, before U.S. District Judge John Michael Vazquez in Newark federal court to two counts of an indictment charging him with possession of ammunition by a convicted felon and retaliating against a witness, victim or an informant. Bryant was convicted on Feb. 17, 2023, on the other two counts of the indictment – transmitting threats in interstate commerce and retaliating against a witness, victim, or informant following – following an eight-day trial. According to documents filed in this case, statements made in court, and the evidence at trial: The victim in this case previously cooperated with the FBI and provided information about federal crimes committed by one of Bryant’s longtime associates. On Aug. 24, 2019, in retaliation for that cooperation, Bryant pointed a loaded firearm at the victim, called him a “rat,” then shot the victim in the abdomen. The victim received medical treatment and survived. On Sept. 18, 2019, Bryant sent text messages to an individual associated with the victim stating: “Tell [the victim] he gonna Die soon for being a rat.” This message was accompanied by a photograph of a rat and a gun. Bryant sent additional text messages in reference to the victim stating: “Prepare to bury Him soon” and “Get your black dress ready.” The possession of ammunition by a convicted felon count to which Bryant pleaded guilty carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison; the retaliating against a witness, victim or an informant count carries a maximum potential penalty of 30 years in prison; the transmitting threats in interstate commerce count carries a maximum potential penalty of five years in prison; the retaliating against a witness, victim or an informant count carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. Each count also carries a maximum fine of $250,000. Sentencing is scheduled for Oct. 10, 2023. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy in Newark, with the investigation leading to the guilty verdict and today’s guilty plea. He also thanked the East Orange Police Department, under the direction of Police Chief Phyllis Bindi, Jersey City Police Department, under the direction of Director James Shea, Metuchen Police Department, under the direction of Police Chief Arthur Flaherty and the U.S. Marshals for their assistance. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jamel Semper and Shontae D. Gray. bryant.indictment.pdf


title: Bayside State Prison Corrections Officer Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Violating Inmates’ Civil Rights

body_text: CAMDEN, N.J. – A corrections officer at Bayside State Prison in Leesburg, New Jersey, was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for agreeing with others to physically assault inmates for actual, perceived and fabricated violations of the prison’s rules and customs in a manner that resulted in injury to the inmates. John Makos, 42, of Millville, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Karen M. Williams to conspiring with others to deprive inmates of their right not to be subjected to cruel and unusual punishment. Judge Williams imposed the sentence today in Camden federal court. “Corrections officers are responsible for protecting the civil rights of the people in their custody,” U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger of the District of New Jersey said. “Incarcerated persons may have broken the law, but equal treatment is one of our country’s founding principles, and civil rights do not cease to exist at a prison’s gates. This defendant allowed incarcerated persons under his care to be brutalized and abused his authority as a law enforcement officer. Today’s sentence is another reminder that civil rights violations by law enforcement officials will not be tolerated.” “This jail official was complicit in a series of violent assaults on inmates, turning a blind eye as the assaults were carried out as punishment for alleged violations of prison rules,” Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “This sentencing demonstrates that correctional officers who abuse their authority and violate the civil rights of inmates under their custody and control will be held accountable for their actions. The Justice Department is committed to protecting the civil rights of all people, including those held inside our jails and prisons.” “Law enforcement officers may enforce the law, but no one is above the law,” FBI Special Agent in Charge James E. Dennehy said. “Makos failed to respect and protect the basic human dignity of the inmates in his care. Let today’s sentencing be a warning to others like Makos: the FBI protects the rights of all citizens, and your badge will not shield you from justice.” According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: From at least April 2019 through December 2019, while working as a corrections officer, Makos and others at Bayside State Prison agreed to physically assault certain victim-inmates for actual and perceived violations of the prison’s rules and customs. The assaults caused physical injury and pain to the victim-inmates. These assaults took place while the victim-inmates were under Makos’ supervision and in areas of the prison’s kitchen that were out of sight of institutional surveillance cameras. For example, on Dec. 7, 2019, Makos watched and did not attempt to intervene when multiple inmates pinned a victim-inmate to the floor and, while the inmates restrained the victim-inmate, punched the victim-inmate approximately 25 times. Makos did not report this assault to his supervisors or medical personnel, despite knowing he was required to do so. In addition to the prison term, Judge Williams sentenced Makos to three years of supervised release and fined him $10,000. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the FBI Atlantic City Resident Agency, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Dennehy in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing. He also thanked the New Jersey Department of Corrections, under the direction of Commissioner Victoria Kuhn, for its assistance in the investigation. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ari B. Fontecchio and Sara Merin of the Special Prosecutions Division in Newark and Trial Attorney Shan Patel formerly of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Civil Rights Division.


title: Washington Man Indicted for Failure to Register As a Sex Offender

component: USAO - Alaska

body_text: ANCHORAGE – A federal grand jury in Alaska returned an indictment charging a Washington man with failure to register as a sex offender and as a felon in possession of a firearm. According to court documents, Dylan Scott Valin, 31, fled active felony warrants issued in the State of Washington for Burglary in the First Degree and Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. According to the affidavit supporting the complaint, the United States Marshals Service learned of Valin’s whereabouts after he sent emails to friends in custody in Washington, advising them he was fleeing Washington to commercial fish in Alaska because “they don’t extradite.” Deputy United States Marshals then searched for commercial fishing licenses issued by the State of Alaska and ascertained that Valin was residing in Craig, Alaska, where he was ultimately apprehended without incident. Valin was indicted for one count of failure to register as a sex offender in violation of 18 U.S.C. §2250(a) and one count of being a felon in possession in violation of 18 U.S.C. §924(g). The defendant made his initial court appearance on May 23, 2023, before Chief U.S. Magistrate Judge Scoble of the U.S. District Court for the District of Alaska. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. U.S. Attorney S. Lane Tucker of the District of Alaska and United States Marshal Rob Heun made the announcement. The United States Marshals are investigating the case with the assistance of the Alaska State Troopers. Law enforcement urges anyone with knowledge of Valin’s activities to contact the USMS. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Alexander is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. ###


title: Local Entrepreneur Sentenced to Federal Prison for Covid-Relief Fraud

component: USAO - Oregon

body_text: PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland entrepreneur was sentenced to federal prison today for fraudulently applying for and obtaining loans intended to help small businesses during the Covid-19 pandemic. Peter Peacock Blood, 59, was sentenced to 12 months in federal prison and 5 years’ supervised release. He was also ordered to forfeit more than $600,000 to the United States and to pay more than $590,000 in restitution to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Chase Bank. On March 25, 2020, Congress passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act to provide emergency financial assistance to American employers suffering the economic effects of the Covid-19 pandemic and resulting shutdowns. According to court documents, in early April 2020, less than two weeks after the CARES Act was passed, Blood began submitting fraudulent applications for Covid-relief benefits on behalf of his two solar energy companies, Cycle Power Partners, LLC and Cycle Holdings, LLC. Previously, Blood filed tax returns in 2019 and 2020 on behalf of Cycle Power Partners claiming the company had two or fewer employees, including Blood himself, and paid less than $9,600 in quarterly wages and other compensation. No quarterly tax returns were filed for Cycle Holdings during the same time period. Despite this, in two separate Paycheck Protection Program loan applications he submitted in April 2020, Blood claimed his companies had 10 employees and an average monthly payroll exceeding $116,000. The first application resulted in a loan of more than $332,000 and the second, a loan of more than $290,000. Blood spent more than half of the funds received on a custom, military-style truck he outfitted into a camper and another $14,000 on home improvements. On July 8, 2021, a federal grand jury in Portland returned an indictment charging Blood with two counts of loan fraud and, on December 16, 2022, he pleaded guilty to both counts. This case was investigated by the SBA Office of Inspector General, U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA), and the FBI. It was prosecuted by Ryan W. Bounds and Meredith D.M. Bateman, Assistant U.S. Attorneys for the District of Oregon. Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form .


title: U.S. Citizen and Two Mexican Nationals Charged in Failed Smuggling Event

body_text: SYRACUSE, NEW YORK – Karina Martinez, of New York, was charged yesterday with smuggling two citizens of Mexico from Canada into the United States across the St. Lawrence River in Clayton, New York. United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Chief Patrol Agent Thomas G. Martin, United States Border Patrol, Buffalo Sector, made the announcement. The criminal complaint filed in federal court alleges that on May 23, 2023, Martinez rented a boat from the Clayton Marina, in Clayton, and drove the boat illegally into Canadian waters where she picked up two Mexican citizens and returned with them to the United States illegally. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) notified U.S. law enforcement after they encountered the two Mexican citizens in Canada attempting to rent kayaks. Upon conviction, the charges filed against Martinez carry a maximum term of 10 years in prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, as well as a post-incarceration term of supervised release of up to 3 years. The two Mexican citizens, Jose Guadalupe Martinez-Peralta, and Kevin Martinez-Toral, were each charged with unlawfully entering the United States and if convicted face up to six months in jail, a fine of up to $5,000, and possible deportation and future exclusion from the United States. [1] A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors. The charges in the criminal complaints are merely accusations. The defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. The case is being investigated by the United States Border Patrol—Wellesley Island Station including several operational teams and marine (boat) units, with assistance from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Stitt is prosecuting the case. [1] Immigration proceedings related to removal or deportation are adjudicated in Immigration Court as a separate civil proceeding and not during the criminal prosecution described herein.


title: Department of Planning and Permitting Supervisor Sentenced to 60 Months in Prison for Bribery Scheme

component: USAO - Hawaii

body_text: HONOLULU – Wayne Inouye, 66, of Honolulu, was sentenced today in federal court by United States District Judge Leslie E. Kobayashi to 60 months imprisonment, two years supervised release, and a $100,000 fine for taking more than $103,000 in bribes in exchange for expediting the approval of permits issued by the Department of Planning and Permitting (DPP) of the City and County of Honolulu and for making false statements to federal investigators with intent to conceal his crimes. After a lengthy investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) into corruption at the DPP, honest services wire fraud charges were filed against six individuals, including Inouye, arising out of schemes in which employees of the DPP took bribes in exchange for performing official acts at DPP. The other five defendants have also entered guilty pleas: Jennie Javonillo, 73, of Waipahu, a former Building Plans Examiner at DPP, was sentenced on June 27, 2022, to 30 months imprisonment, two years supervised release, a $5,000 fine, and forfeiture of $58,000, in bribes in Cr. No. 21-00038 DKW; Jason Dadez, 45, of Honolulu, a former Building Inspector at DPP, was sentenced on July 6, 2022, to 18 months imprisonment, two years supervised release, and forfeiture of $12,900 in bribes, in Cr. No. 21-00037 DKW; Jocelyn Godoy, 60, of Pearl City, an employee of the Data Access and Imaging Branch at DPP, pled guilty to one count on May 17, 2023, and is scheduled for sentencing on August 30, 2023, in Cr. No. 21-00036 DKW; Kanani Padeken, 38, of Kaaawa, a former Building Plans Examiner at DPP, pled guilty to one count on April 7, 2021, and is scheduled for sentencing on August 22, 2023, in Cr. No. 21-00040 DKW; and William Wong, 73, of Honolulu, an architect, pled guilty to one count on April 7, 2021, and is scheduled for sentencing on July 27, 2023, in Cr. No. 21-00041 DKW. According to information presented to the court, while employed by DPP as the Chief Building Inspector with supervisory responsibility for approximately 20 employees, Inouye solicited bribes from architects, contractors, and others in exchange for expediting the approval of building permits by DPP. Those who paid bribes to Inouye had their permit applications sped through the DPP approval process ahead of other applications. From September 2016 to September 2017, Inouye solicited and accepted bribes of at least $89,205 from Wong. From February 2012 to August 2017, Inouye solicited and accepted bribes of at least $3,425 from a signage contractor. From April 2012 to January 2016, Inouye solicited and accepted bribes of at least $9,685 from a building contractor. From February 2012 to December 2017, Inouye solicited and accepted bribes of at least $1,825 from a second signage contractor. Other information provided to the court relates that during an interview with an Assistant United States Attorney and an FBI agent on July 11, 2019, Inouye falsely stated that the payments from Wong were a loan. Inouye claimed that he had borrowed approximately $100,000 from Wong for a real estate auction and repaid him with interest. In fact, as Inouye admitted during his guilty plea, the payments from Wong were bribes. In an effort to conceal his bribery scheme, Inouye repaid Wong in October 2017 after learning that the FBI was investigating corruption at DPP. “The integrity of all government employees is diminished by the criminal acts of those who compromise their positions for personal gain,” said United States Attorney Clare E. Connors. “The Court’s sentence reflects the damage done to the public’s trust and the need to deter such conduct from happening in the future. A top priority of our office remains ferreting out public corruption and holding all involved in such crimes accountable.” "The public deserves ethical and transparent officials and institutions" said Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Steven Merrill. “The FBI continues to vigorously pursue criminals who attempt to violate the public's trust." The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation that resulted in the convictions. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michael Nammar and Craig Nolan prosecuted the case.


title: Jury Convicts Business Owner in Healthcare Fraud and Charitable Foundation Scheme

body_text: TOLEDO - First Assistant United States Attorney Michelle M. Baeppler announced that a federal jury convicted Kevin A. Clay, age 39, of Perrysburg, Ohio of conspiracy, healthcare fraud, and making a false statement on an application for charitable tax-exempt status with the IRS on Wednesday, May 24, in Toledo, Ohio following a 4-day trial before Judge Jack Zouhary. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Kevin A. Clay was the co-owner of Theramedical, LLC, a pharmaceutical marketing company specializing in compounded pain and scar cream. The evidence showed that Clay and Theramedical recruited and paid individuals to obtain prescriptions for pain and scar cream, some of which cost approximately $15,000 for a single prescription. The prescriptions were submitted to a Cleveland-area pharmacy, which filled the prescription and billed insurance companies. Members of the scheme concealed the fact that patients were paid to get the prescriptions, and that the prescriptions were often medically unnecessary. In less than two years, Theramedical generated insurance billings of approximately $17 million from the fraudulent scheme. Clay was also convicted of making a false application for tax-exempt status for the Clay Foundation. In his application to the IRS, Clay claimed the foundation was a public charity, however, it was almost entirely funded by fraud proceeds from Theramedical, not the public. Clay conducted little or no fundraising, awarded virtually no scholarships, and purchased gold and silver in his own name with foundation funds. This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Toledo, Ohio, and the Internal Revenue Service–Criminal Investigations in Cleveland, Ohio, the Ohio Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Ohio State Medical Board. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jody L. King and Gene Crawford.


title: Former Chief Operating Office of Summit Pain Specialists Sentenced to Prison for Making and Subscribing False Tax Returns

component: USAO - Ohio, Northern

body_text: CLEVELAND – Richard Gould, 67, of Strongsville, Ohio, was sentenced on Tuesday, May 23, 2023, to seven days in prison by U.S. District Judge J. Philip Calabrese after Gould pleaded guilty to a two-count indictment that charged him with making and subscribing false tax returns. According to court documents, during the tax years of 2014 to 2016, Gould was employed as Chief Operating Officer (“COO”) of Summit Pain Specialists (“SPS”), a pain management clinic. During his time at the pain clinic, as COO for SPS, Gould directed employees to issue checks, direct deposits, and bank transfers directly to him to ensure he was treated as an independent contractor rather than as an employee. Gould prepared the joint individual federal income tax returns that he and his wife electronically filed with the IRS for 2014 and 2015 The IRS determined the tax returns to be fraudulent because Gould listed himself as unemployed and did not report any of his taxable income during those years SPS closed in 2016 due to allegations of sexual assault and medical misconduct by its doctors. Gould failed to report $469,640.56 of income for tax years 2014 and 2015, resulting in $184,195 in additional tax owed to the IRS. This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigations (CI) and was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. McDonough.


title: Grand Rapids Man Sentenced To 12 Years In Prison After Shooting Near Southeast Grand Rapids High School

component: USAO - Michigan, Western

body_text: GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN — U.S. Attorney Mark Totten for the Western District of Michigan announced today that U.S. District Judge Robert J. Jonker sentenced Donte Matthews to 120 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and other drugs within 1,000 feet of a public high school. Matthews was on supervised release for a previous federal offense and Judge Jonker imposed an additional 30 months to be served consecutively for violating the terms of his supervision. “Gun violence and illegal drugs like fentanyl are devastating to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Mark Totten . “It is also particularly troubling that a shooting and drug trafficking occurred near a school. My office is committed to enforcing federal gun and drug laws to hold offenders accountable and protect our communities.” In the early morning of August 12, 2022, Grand Rapids Police Department officers were patrolling southeast Grand Rapids when they heard multiple gunshots. The officers drove in the direction of the shooting and saw a white Chevrolet Suburban spin out and crash in the parking lot of Southeast Career Pathways, a Grand Rapids public high school. As police approached, additional shots were fired. Officers observed two subjects flee the Suburban on foot after the crash. The defendant, Donte Matthews, exited the driver’s side of the vehicle and was apprehended attempting to climb a fence. At the time, Matthews was on supervised release for a prior federal drug trafficking charge. In his waistband, police found a stolen Springfield XD 9 mm pistol, which had only two rounds in it: one in the magazine and one in the chamber. Crime scene technicians found twelve spent 9 mm casings in the street from which Matthews’s vehicle had travelled and where officers first heard the shooting. Inside the crashed vehicle that Matthews had been driving, police found bags containing fentanyl, cocaine, and a digital scale. The Grand Rapids Police Department and Drug Enforcement Administration investigated the case. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Vito S. Solitro. ###


title: Orlando Man Arrested For Possessing A Firearm As A Convicted Felon

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the arrest of Eddie Lee Parks, III (24, Orlando) on a one-count indictment charging him with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, he is faces a maximum of 15 years in federal prison. According to the indictment, on April 10, 2023, Parks was in possession of a handgun. He had previously been convicted of three felonies, including two counts of aggravated assault with a deadly weapon (2019) and possession of a controlled substance (2019). As a convicted felon, Parks is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. An indictment is merely an allegation that a defendant has committed a federal criminal offense. Every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case is being investigated by the Leesburg Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.


title: Rowlett Man Who Stalked, Murdered Ex-Girlfriend Sentenced to 43 Years in Prison

body_text: A Rowlett man who cyberstalked his ex-girlfriend and shot and stabbed her to death in the midst of a bitter custody dispute was sentenced today to 43 years in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton. Andrew Charles Beard, 36, was charged in October 2020. He pleaded guilty to cyberstalking using a dangerous weapon resulting in death and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence in June 2022 and was sentenced on Wednesday by U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle. “This case is a sobering reminder of the brutal violence some women endure at the hands of their intimate partners. The victim in this case fought valiantly until the end. We hope today’s sentence brings a measure of peace to her family,” said U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton. In plea papers, Mr. Beard admitted that he cyberstalked and murdered his ex-girlfriend, 24-year-old Alyssa Ann Burkett, in a parking lot in Carrollton on Oct. 2, 2020, in an attempt to gain custody of their young daughter. He admitted that he placed a GPS tracking device on Ms. Burkett’s car, entered a black SUV he had purchased for the occasion, followed her to the apartment complex where she worked, and donned a disguise. He then exited his vehicle with a shotgun and shot Ms. Burkett in the head as she sat behind the wheel of her car. Believing that he had fatally shot her, Mr. Beard ran back to the SUV to drive away. However, Ms. Burkett—severely injured and bloodied from the shotgun blast—staggered out of her car and attempted to enter a nearby building for help. Realizing that his ex-girlfriend was still alive, Mr. Beard exited the SUV, ran up to her, grabbed her from behind, and stabbed her 13 times through the upper body with a sharp object. She died in the parking lot as he raced away from the scene. Ms. Burkett’s mother and coworkers told responding officers that Ms. Burkett feared Mr. Beard, believed he was tracking her, and worried he would kill her. Her boyfriend told police that Mr. Beard had seemed “overly obsessed” with Ms. Burkett and their child. Three hours later, officers stopped Mr. Beard as he drove away from his residence in a white pickup truck. They seized three phones from Mr. Beard, including a prepaid burner phone. On one phone, they found an internet search for “what is the best way to remove gunpowder residue from hands.” Officers also searched his vehicle, where they found a pair of men’s hiking boots cut into pieces and soaking in bleach, and they searched his residence, where they found a battery that matched the GPS trackers affixed to Ms. Burkett’s vehicle. They also found a written script Mr. Beard had used to phone in a false drug tip against Ms. Burkett a month earlier. In plea papers, Mr. Beard admitted that he called in the fake tip on September 2, 2020, after planting drugs and a gun in her car. Identifying himself as “Frank Marrow,” he claimed Ms. Burkett was selling drugs out of the trunk of her car and advised police to check the spare tire well. Officers searched the tire well and found illegal drugs and a pistol with an obliterated serial number. Ms. Burkett vehemently denied selling drugs and stated that she believed Mr. Beard had planted the evidence in her vehicle. The day after the murder, officers found the black SUV Mr. Beard had driven to and from the murder scene abandoned in a residential neighborhood near Mr. Beard’s home. Dried blood recovered from the vehicle contained DNA that matched Ms. Burkett. A fake beard recovered from the vehicle contained DNA that matched Mr. Beard. The Carrollton Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Dallas Field Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives’ Dallas Field Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Gary Tromblay, Camille Sparks, and Andrew Briggs are prosecuting the case.


title: Spokane Woman Sentenced to a Year in Federal for Failing to File Federal Income Tax Returns

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington – Vanessa R. Waldref, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington, announced that Rhonda Sue Ackerman, age 54 of Spokane, Washington, was sentenced after having pleaded guilty to two counts of willfully failing to file her 2015 and 2016 federal income tax returns. Senior United States District Judge Rosanna Malouf Peterson sentenced Ackerman to a 12-month term of imprisonment, to be followed by a one-year term of court supervision after she is released from federal prison. Senior Judge Peterson ordered Ackerman’s federal prison term to run consecutive to the to the twelve-month prison term imposed by the Spokane County Superior Court on January 4, 2023, following her first-degree theft conviction in State of Washington v. Rhonda Sue Ackerman (Case No. 21110632-32) for stealing $1,378,541 in public funds between 2007 and 2016, while she worked at Spokane County Department of Risk Management (“SCDRM”). Senior Judge Peterson also ordered Ackerman to pay the IRS $96,363 in restitution. According to court documents, Ackerman abused her position as a liability claims technician at SCDRM. Between 2014 and 2016, she embezzled $440,315.25 and failed to file federal income tax returns reporting her income. Ackerman used her access to risk management software to enrich herself by creating bogus “vendor” and vendor IDs” for nominees (fake third-party claimants). Shen then created and submitted bogus claims vouchers to Spokane County, delivering the bogus vouchers to the auditor’s office for payment, picking up the vouchers and contacting the nominees to cash the checks for her at local banks. As part of the scheme, Ackerman would pay each nominee between $100 and $600 for cashing the checks and keeping the remaining funds for her own personal use and benefit. While Ackerman deposited some of the ill-gotten proceeds into her bank account, a large portion of the cash Ackerman received was spent gambling. At one local casino, Ackerman withdrew approximately $117,000. “Ackerman willfully disregarded the tax laws and embezzled county funds for her own personal gain. Our tax system depends on the voluntary compliance of honest taxpayers. People who intentionally fail to file tax returns are subject to prosecution. The sentence imposed in this case sends a strong message: A term of imprisonment is a reality for willfully failing to file federal income tax returns,” said U.S. Attorney Waldref. “Gamblers often tell themselves, ‘It’s only a problem if I’m losing.’ Today’s sentence is confirmation that Ms. Ackerman has indeed lost,” said Special Agent in Charge Adam Jobes, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS:CI), Seattle Field Office. “Ms. Ackerman embezzled hard-earned taxpayer funds and gambled It away. Not satisfied with that, she chose to deliberately disregard tax laws in order to try to evade paying her fair share. This is not acceptable, and IRS:CI will continue to investigate and bring these criminals to justice.” This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, with the assistance of the Spokane Police Department. This case is being prosecuted by George J.C. Jacobs, III, Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington. 2:22-CR-22-RMP