title: Raleigh Eight Trey Gangster Crip Sentenced to 24 Years for Racketeering-related Violence and Drug Trafficking

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was sentenced to 288 months in prison for the distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and violent crimes in aid of racketeering (VICAR) for conspiring to kill a rival Eight Trey Gangster Crip (ETGC). On August 2, 2021, Dexter Maxwell pled guilty to charges related to this investigation. Maxwell was identified as the leader of ETGC throughout the North and South Carolina with direct ties to gang hierarchy in Los Angeles, California. "We are dismantling violent gang and drug traffickers across North Carolina with our expansive network of law enforcement partners. Maxwell was a well-known gang leader in the Carolinas who directed violence around Raleigh, while trafficking narcotics that fueled addiction throughout the region,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “This operation brings an end to Maxwell’s racketeering enterprise and dismantles his network, with over 20 co-conspirators convicted, and their leader spending the next 24 years in federal prison.” According to court documents and other information presented in court, Deandre Earp was tased and assaulted by a rival gang member on Quarry Street in Raleigh in July 2019. Earp then coordinated with Maxwell, Clinton Basco, and Rayquan Wiggins to retaliate by planning a murder of the rival gang member. Maxwell directed his underlings to commit the murder and, as the group were driving to kill the rival gang member, Raleigh Police Department personnel initiated a vehicle stop. Earp and Basco both had loaded firearms with them in the car and were taken into custody, thereby preventing the potential murder of a rival Crip gang member. “Drug trafficking networks bring serious threats to a community, including gun violence,” said Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Special Agent in Charge Bennie Mims. “To address that threat, ATF partners with local, state and other federal agencies to tackle this problem from every direction. When we remove the individuals leading gangs and drug trafficking networks from our communities, we can have a major impact on the level of gun violence and violent crime.” Maxwell was well-connected in the ETGC criminal world where he conspired with Troy Davis, a high-ranking ETGC member from Los Angeles to acquire large quantities of cocaine and methamphetamine to distribute throughout the Raleigh area. Once the illegal drugs arrived, Maxwell was responsible for overseeing the distribution operation and collecting drug proceeds to funnel back to California. For approximately two decades, ETGC has operated in North Carolina, including in the North Carolina prison system. The ETGC is recognized as a national criminal street gang originating out of Los Angeles and has a reputation for a propensity for violence that includes several homicides, aggravated assaults, and robberies. Members and associates of ETGC have been involved in numerous violent crimes that have resulted in the loss of life, decrease in quality of life, and damage to societal norms in and around Raleigh. The ETGC members committed acts of violence to maintain membership and discipline, both within the gang and against non-gang members. Maxwell has a lengthy, violent criminal history which had resulted in his rise to leadership and connection with ETGC leadership in Los Angeles, California. This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, 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. Notably, more than 20 individuals have been indicted because of this investigation, including Deandre Earp, who was sentenced in January 2022 to 40 years in prison; Troy Davis, who was sentenced in November 2022 to 35 years in prison; Chad Murray, who was sentenced in May 2023 to 17 years in prison, Clinton Basco, who was sentenced in April 2023 to 11 years in prison; and Rayquan Wiggins, who was sentenced in February 2023 to 8 years in prison. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Raleigh Police Department led the investigation with assistance from the Los Angeles Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Raleigh/Wake City-County Bureau of Identification and United States Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly L. Sandling prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on our website . Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:19-cr-00395-D-1. ###


title: Houston Woman Sentenced to 30 Months After Pleading Guilty to Conspiring to Traffic 13-Year-Old Female into the New Orleans Area to Perform Commercial Sex Acts

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that CHELSE GEE , age 20, from Houston, Texas, was sentenced on January 23, 2024 by United States District Judge Darrel James Papillion to 30 months imprisonment after previously pleading guilty to a one-count bill of information charging her with conspiracy to commit sex trafficking of a child under the age of 14, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371 and 1591(a). The charges stem from GEE’S role in recruiting and bringing a thirteen-year-old female from Houston to New Orleans in June 2021 for the purpose of her engaging in commercial sex acts. Upon her release GEE will be placed on supervised release for 3 years, and she must pay a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. According to court documents, GEE met her co-conspirator, Randi Lewis (a/k/a “Teddy,” a/k/a “Teddy P.”), when she was about sixteen years old. Lewis recruited GEE to engage in commercial sex acts under his direction, and she complied. Lewis also instituted a series of rules GEE was to follow, including how to behave, what to wear, with whom she was allowed to interact ( i.e. , look at and speak to), and how much she was expected to earn from engaging in daily commercial sex acts. Lewis routinely tracked GEE’S location using a location sharing cellular phone application. Lewis also regularly engaged in sexual acts with GEE and used violence and threats of violence against her. Together, Lewis and GEE met the victim, who was thirteen years old, in the Houston, Texas area not later than June 21, 2021. GEE recruited the victim to perform commercial sex acts under Lewis’ s direction and introduced the victim to Lewis. Lewis and GEE gave the victim instruction and guidance on the successful performance of commercial sex activities, including ways to behave, what to wear, how to identify and avoid law enforcement, and how to best solicit commercial sex customers. The victim agreed, and Lewis arranged for he, GEE , and the victim to travel to New Orleans on a Greyhound bus for the purpose of his co-conspirator and the victim to engage in commercial sex acts. Between June 22, 2021, and June 24, 2021, GEE and the victim performed multiple commercial sex acts in the New Orleans area. Lewis required the victim to turn over to him most if not all, of the money she earned from commercial sex acts. Acting at Lewis’s direction, GEE and the victim solicited commercial sex “dates” in several ways. First, they walked along streets soliciting customers. Additionally, Lewis created and caused to be created, an online classified advertisement service, commonly used to market sexual services in exchange for money. Through this online advertising service, Lewis received telephone calls, text messages, and messages via social media applications inquiring about, scheduling, and arranging prostitution dates with his co-conspirator and the victim. Lewis arranged for sexually explicit pictures of the victim to be used in the advertisements. GEE and Lewis also gave the victim illicit and mood-altering drugs, including marijuana, to numb her senses, control her behavior, and/or to encourage her to engage in commercial sex acts. Law enforcement authorities recovered the victim from a hotel in Terrytown, Louisiana, on June 24, 2021. Lewis was charged for his role in trafficking the victim in November 2022, and he was sentenced in September 2023 to 360 months in prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.” U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in this matter. Assistant United States Attorney Jordan Ginsberg , Chief of the Public Integrity Unit, was in charge of the prosecution.


title: Las Vegas Man Sentenced To 10 Years In Prison For Distributing Thousands Of Fentanyl Pills

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced Tuesday by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release for distributing large quantities of fentanyl pills in Las Vegas. According to court documents, Alphaeus Johnson (38) conspired with others to distribute fentanyl in Las Vegas. On March 21, 2022, he sold approximately 500 fentanyl pills in exchange for money. Then, in April on two separate occasions, he sold a combined total of approximately 4,000 fentanyl pills in exchange for money. Between April 29, 2022 and May 2, 2022, Johnson traveled to Arizona to be resupplied with fentanyl pills and on May 2, 2022, was stopped by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department detectives while he was traveling to Las Vegas from Arizona. During the traffic stop, law enforcement discovered approximately 10,000 fentanyl pills in Johnson’s possession. In October 2023, Johnson pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement. The case was investigated by the DEA and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Melanee Smith prosecuted the case. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles criminal organizations using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF . If you are aware of controlled substance violations in your community — which may include the growing, manufacture, distribution or trafficking of controlled substances — please submit your anonymous tip through the DEA Tip Line at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip . ###


title: Money Launderer Sentenced to 48 Months and Ordered to Pay Over $1 Million in Restitution

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Flavia Annang, 60, of Hagerstown, Maryland, was sentenced last week by United States District Judge John C. Hinderaker to 48 months in prison and ordered to pay over $1 million in restitution to 19 victims. Annang pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering on March 9, 2023. Between May 2018 and April 2022, Annang laundered money for scammers who lured victims into various online frauds. In some instances, the victims believed they were sending money to support an online romantic partner who falsely stated they needed to pay taxes and fees to release an inheritance or gold bars. The stories told to the victims by the scammers were fraudulent. The scammers directed the victims’ monies into accounts controlled by Annang and her co-conspirator. When Annang and her co-conspirator received the fraudulent monies, they kept a fee for themselves, and then transferred the funds to Ghana. Annang and her co-conspirator set up phony businesses and then opened business bank accounts to hide the transfer of the fraudulently obtained funds. The FBI traced over $4 million, sent by 106 victims, through Annang’s and her co-conspirator’s bank accounts. One Arizona victim lost nearly $5 million to the scams, sending over $1 million to Annang’s and her co-conspirator’s accounts and the remaining money to multiple other individuals. Annang’s co-conspirator pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering and was sentenced to 48 months in prison on January 3, 2024. This case was prosecuted as part of the Department of Justice’s Elder Justice Initiative. If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim, and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies, and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is staffed 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Eastern Time, Monday-Friday. English, Spanish, and other languages are available. The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Sue Feldmeier, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR-22-00893-JCH-1 RELEASE NUMBER: 2024-007_Annang # # # 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: Cousins sentenced to federal prison for roles in Treutlen County drug trafficking operation

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: AUGUSTA, GA: Two cousins have been sentenced to federal prison for their roles in operating a crack cocaine distribution network in Treutlen County. Kenyatte Harden , 39, of Soperton, Ga., was sentenced to 87 months in prison after pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Cody Harden , 35, of Soperton, Ga., was sentenced to 48 months in prison after pleading guilty to Conspiracy to Possess with Intent to Distribute and to Distribute Crack Cocaine, Cocaine, and Marijuana, said Jill E. Steinberg, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. U.S. District Court Judge Dudley H. Bowen also fined Kenyatte Harden $2,500 and Cody Harden $1,500, and ordered each defendant to serve three years of supervised release upon completion of their prison terms. There is no parole in the federal system. “Local and federal law enforcement agencies identified and disrupted an organization that was distributing illegal drugs throughout the Soperton, Ga., area,” said U.S. Attorney Steinberg. “Our office is committed to assist communities of all sizes in shutting down criminal enterprises and keeping their citizens safe.” As described in court documents and testimony, investigators from the Treutlen County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration began targeting the Hardens’ drug trafficking operation in early 2021, culminating in the arrests and indictments of both men and their 14 co-conspirators in October 2022. These cases have now been fully adjudicated with the Hardens’ sentencings. The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Treutlen County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Jeff Davis County Sheriff’s Office and other agencies, and prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys John P. Harper III and L. Alexander Hamner.


title: Two Essex County Men Charged with Seven Gas Station Gunpoint Robberies

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – Two Essex County, New Jersey, men are charged with seven gunpoint robberies of gas stations located in different parts of New Jersey in September 2023, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced today. Ahmad Singletary, 24, and Joseph Young, 26, both of Newark, are charged by complaint with one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery; one count of conspiracy to use and carry a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence; seven counts of Hobbs Act robbery, and two counts count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Singletary is also charged with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Singletary and Young each made their initial appearance on Jan. 16, 2024, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael A. Hammer in Newark federal court and were detained. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: On three occasions on Sept. 5, 2023, and four occasions on Sept. 12, 2023, Singletary and Young robbed gas stations in Middlesex, Union, and Essex counties. The defendants targeted gas stations on or near highways, used a firearm, committed the robberies in the early morning, and performed the robberies in approximately four minutes or less. During the course of four of the robberies, Singletary threatened, assaulted, and struck victims in the head with a firearm, causing physical injuries. The Hobbs Act robbery and conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery counts each carry a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison. The conspiracy to use and carry a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence count carries a maximum potential penalty of 10 years in prison. The using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence counts each carry a maximum potential penalty of life in prison and a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in prison, which must run consecutively to any other term of imprisonment imposed. Each count also carries a fine of up to $250,000 fine, or twice the gain or loss from the offenses, whichever is greatest. Singletary is subject to a maximum potential penalty of 15 years in prison for the charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Bryan Miller; the New Jersey State Police, under the direction of Col. Patrick J. Callahan; the Union County Prosecutors Office, under the direction of Prosecutor William A. Daniel; the Newark Police Department, under the direction of Director Fritz G. Fragé; the Township of Union Police Department, under the direction of Director Chris Donnelly; the Woodbridge Police Department, under the direction of Director Robert Hubner; and the West Orange Police Department, under the direction of Chief James Abbott, with the investigation leading to the charges. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ariel Douek of the General Crimes Unit in Newark. The charges and allegations contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. singletaryyoung.complaint.pdf


title: Louisiana Bounty Hunter Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Missouri Kidnapping

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. District Judge Ronnie L. White on Wednesday sentenced a bounty hunter from Louisiana to 10 years in prison for removing a woman from a St. Peters, Missouri home and taking her across state lines against her will. Wayne D. Lozier Jr., 45, of the New Orleans area, was convicted by a jury in September in U.S. District Court in St. Louis of kidnapping and conspiracy to commit kidnapping. “This sentence should reinforce that those who work in the fugitive recovery industry must comply with state and local laws and regulations and treat those they take into custody with decency,” said U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming. “They work in a dangerous industry, but that is not a license to go rogue.” "Wayne Lozier claimed he was just doing his job as a bounty hunter, but a jury convicted him of kidnapping. The evidence presented in trial proved he flagrantly ignored police warnings that he was violating the law and police commands to release his victim," said Special Agent in Charge Jay Greenberg of the FBI St. Louis Division. "We commend St. Peters Police for its thorough investigation and collaboration with us in pursuing federal prosecution.” Testimony and evidence presented at trial showed that Lozier first called and impersonated a deputy with the St. Tammany Parish Sheriff’s Office to trick the victim, who had an arrest warrant there for two misdemeanor offenses, into revealing her address. Lozier and his partner, Jody L. Sullivan, then drove to where the victim was staying in St. Peters, Missouri. They had been hired by a Louisiana bail bond company to locate and apprehend the victim. They were not licensed by Missouri’s Department of Commerce and Insurance to operate as surety recovery agents within Missouri. They also did not notify local law enforcement before entering the home. On May 9, 2019, Lozier told the homeowner he didn’t need her permission to enter the house, according to evidence and testimony, including video from Lozier’s body camera. Lozier went into the basement and handcuffed the victim, who was barefoot and clad only in pajamas. He and Sullivan then took her away in their SUV without her consent, the trial showed. The homeowner contacted police. St. Peters Police Officer Jeffrey Atkins told Lozier on the phone that he was breaking the law and needed to return the victim, but Lozier refused to do so. The victim, concerned for her safety after learning that Lozier and Sullivan were not police officers, tried to get help from clerks working at a gas station in Sullivan, Missouri. Inside the store, Lozier shocked the victim multiple times with a Taser and pulled her hair. He and Sullivan then dragged the victim out of the store by the chain that connected her handcuffs and leg shackles. That incident was partially captured in a bystander’s cell phone video. When police arrived, Lozier told them that he was a surety recovery agent and was licensed by the state of Louisiana. The officers were unaware that Lozier and Sullivan had unlawfully taken the victim from the St. Peters residence earlier that day. Once back in the SUV, Lozier repeatedly threatened the victim, both physically and by telling her that he would arrange for her to be charged with a felony offense. He told her that she would never see her children again and that she was his property, testimony and evidence at trial showed. Worried about the legality of his actions, Lozier did not take the victim to Louisiana, where her misdemeanor charges were pending. He instead dropped her at a detention facility in Mississippi. She remained there for about a week before she was released. After Lozier’s indictment and arrest, he violated his pre-trial release conditions by both possessing a firearm and continuing to apprehend fugitives in Louisiana. He also violated his travel restrictions by leaving the Eastern District of Louisiana. Sullivan, 56, of the New Orleans area, pleaded guilty Sept. 18, 2023, to the conspiracy and kidnapping charges and admitted unlawfully seizing the woman and transporting her across state lines. She was sentenced December 20 to five years of probation. The FBI and the St. Peters Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Martin and Donald Boyce prosecuted the case.


title: Opa-locka man convicted of online solicitation of two young girls

component: USAO - Florida, Southern

body_text: MIAMI – On Jan. 23, an Opa-locka man pleaded guilty in federal district court to two counts of online solicitation of a minor to commit a sexual act. As part of his guilty plea, Malik Hosea Atkinson, 25, also known online as “@jpmon8,” “@Mall9488673”and “unknown_value#5861” admitted that in 2022 and 2023 he met two teenage girls online in a social networking application. Atkinson convinced the two young girls to meet him in person. To meet the first victim, he drove from Miami-Dade County to Palm Beach County to have sex with her multiple times in his white van. To meet the second victim, he drove to Broward County to have sex with her. Atkinson’s online account and phone revealed the sexual context of Atkinson’s communications with the two minor victims and confirmed that he had video recorded himself sexually exploiting them. Sentencing is scheduled for April 16 at 3:00 p.m. before U.S. District Judge Robin L. Rosenberg in West Palm Beach. Atkinson faces up to life in prison, lifetime supervised release, and payment of restitution to his victims. U.S. Attorney Markenzy Lapointe for the Southern District of Florida and Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey B. Veltri of FBI, Miami Field Office, announced the guilty plea. FBI Miami, West Palm Beach Resident Agency investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory Schiller is prosecuting it. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov or https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdfl/project-safe-childhood . 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 23-cr-80205. ###


title: Illegal Possession of Firearms Sends Converse Man to Prison

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

body_text: SHREVEPORT, La. – Joseph Chad Castillo , 36, of Converse, Louisiana, was sentenced today announced United States Attorney Brandon B. Brown. United States District Judge Donald E. Walter sentenced Castillo to 30 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release for being a felon in possession of firearms. Information introduced in court revealed that on December 26, 2022, a deputy with the Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office attempted to serve an arrest warrant at a residence in Converse. While the deputy was at the residence, a vehicle drove down the driveway and stopped and the rear seat passenger, later determined to be Castillo, fled into the woods. After a brief pursuit, law enforcement officers stopped and searched the vehicle and found a Remington Model 1100 shotgun and a Remington Model 7600 rifle, as well as Castillo’s cell phone in the backseat. The rifle had an obliterated serial number and Castillo had previously stolen it from a private residence. Castillo has two prior felony convictions, one for attempted possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in 2018 in Sabine Parish, Louisiana, and another for possession of Schedule II CDS in Desoto Parish in 2017. He knew of his felony convictions and that he was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition. Castillo pleaded guilty to the charge on August 16, 2023. The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and Sabine Parish Sheriff’s Office and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Seth D. Reeg. 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. PSN is part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. To learn more about Project Safe Neighborhoods, go to www.justice.gov/psn . # # #


title: Convicted Felon Charged with Possession of Ammunition in Connection with Broad Daylight Shooting in Brooklyn

component: USAO - New York, Eastern

body_text: Earlier today, at the federal courthouse in Brooklyn, an indictment was unsealed charging Luis Rosario with being a felon in possession of ammunition relating to a December 3, 2023 shooting in the Red Hook section of Brooklyn. Rosario was arrested this morning and will be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Peggy Kuo. Breon Peace, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Tommy Kalogiros, Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, New York Division (ATF); and Edward A. Caban, Commissioner, New York City Police Department (NYPD) announced the arrest and indictment. “As alleged, Rosario is a convicted felon who shot and injured a man in broad daylight on a Brooklyn sidewalk without regard for the victim or passersby who were in the line of fire,” said United States Attorney Peace. “Today’s arrest and indictment demonstrates the important work that this Office and our law enforcement partners are doing to reduce gun violence in our communities.” “With today’s indictment, the NYPD continues its tireless efforts to rid our communities of gun violence,” stated NYPD Commissioner Caban. “I thank all of our law enforcement partners for their dedication to this critical aspect of our public safety mission.” “The callous disregard for life will not be tolerated under any circumstance. This indictment demonstrates the commitment of law enforcement and prosecutors working together at all levels. ATF NY is laser-focused on targeting the most significant drivers of violent crime in our communities. I commend the work of ATF NY’s Joint Firearms Task Force, NYPD’s Brooklyn South Violent Crime Squad, NYPD’s 76th Precinct, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Marshals Service, the U.S. Secret Service And the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York . We are dedicated to protecting the public and holding trigger pullers accountable for their actions,” stated ATF Assistant Special Agent-in-Charge Kalogiros. As alleged in the indictment and other court filings, on December 3, 2023, Rosario fired multiple shots from close range at three men standing on the sidewalk outside of a supermarket and restaurant located across the street from a housing development in Red Hook. Surveillance video footage shows Rosario pulling a gun from his jacket and opening fire while passersby were walking along the sidewalk. Rosario shot one man in the leg, causing him to collapse. As the wounded victim lay on the sidewalk, Rosario got into a car and drove it directly toward the victim, running over his foot. Rosario has a prior felony conviction. On June 20, 2016, he was convicted in Bronx County Supreme Court of knowingly making or possessing dangerous contraband in prison in the first degree. The charge in the indictment is an allegation, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Rosario faces up to 15 years in prison. 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 make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. As part of the program, U.S. Attorney’s Offices work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and their local communities to develop effective, locally based strategies to reduce violent crime. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of New York is currently partnering with the SCPD, the NYPD, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), ATF, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (DHS/HSI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) in its PSN mission. The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Andrew M. Roddin and James R. Simmons are in charge of the prosecution. The Defendant : LUIS ROSARIO Age: 30 Cliffside Park, New Jersey E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 24-CR-20 (RER)


title: Richmond Felon Sentenced for Possessing Machine Gun for Sale

body_text: RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to two years in prison for possessing ammunition as a convicted felon and possessing a machine gun. According to court documents, on February 1, 2023, detectives with the Richmond Police Department saw Dai’Quan Jarrvel Lane, 23, displaying a firearm in a live social media video feed. The detectives knew Lane was a convicted felon and, based on past encounters, believed him to be in the Whitcomb Court area. Officers arrived at Whitcomb Court within minutes of the live video ending and encountered Lane outside. When officers tried to stop Lane, he led them on a foot chase. During the chase, he tossed a firearm. That firearm turned out to be a privately made firearm with a machine-gun conversion device affixed to the back. It was loaded and outfitted with a 30-round extended magazine. Lane admitted that not only did he possess the firearm, but that he had been on his way to sell it for $750 when officers located him. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Jason S. Miyares, Attorney General of Virginia; Craig Kailimai, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Washington Field Division; and Rick Edwards, Chief of Richmond Police, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Roderick C. Young. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Schulz and Assistant U.S. Attorney Olivia Norman prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:23-cr-62.


title: Hardin felon sentenced to three years in prison for illegal possession of firearm

body_text: BILLINGS — A Hardin felon who illegally possessed firearms and used them to kill eagles and sell their parts for profit was sentenced today to three years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Harvey Alvin Hugs, 60, pleaded guilty in September 2023 to felon in possession of firearms. Hugs’ sentence is to run concurrently to a three-year prison sentence he received in U.S. District Court in South Dakota for conviction of violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act because his crimes there were deemed as relevant conduct to his firearms offense. U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided. The government alleged in court documents that Hugs was prohibited from possessing firearms because he was convicted in 2002 of felony involuntary manslaughter in U.S. District Court in Montana and was sentenced in 2014 for two separate state felony convictions in Big Horn County. Hugs illegally possessed firearms and used them to kill eagles and sell their parts for profit. Hugs engaged in this conduct for more than a year and sold multiple eagle parts to the same informant. When law enforcement executed a search warrant of Hugs’ property in March 2021, officers recovered ammunition in his home; a loaded rifle, spent shells, ammunition and eagle parts in his white Chevrolet Silverado; and another rifle, two boxes of ammunition, spent shells and eagle feathers in his red Chevrolet Silverado. The investigation recovered body parts from 21 different eagles. Hugs was charged and convicted in a jury trial in U.S. District Court in South Dakota on three counts of violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act for the sale and shipment of eagle parts to the informant. Hugs was sentenced to one year in prison on each count, to run consecutively, and ordered to pay $70,000 restitution. Hugs has appealed the restitution. Assistant U.S. Attorney Karla E. Painter prosecuted the case. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Montana Department of Fish, Wildlife and Parks and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation. 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. XXX


title: Boston Man Who Trafficked a Minor Victim in Three States Pleads Guilty

component: USAO - Massachusetts

body_text: BOSTON – A Boston man pleaded guilty today to transporting a minor to New York and Connecticut to engage in commercial sex. Leon Blount III, 31, pleaded guilty to three counts of transportation of minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. U.S. District Court Judge Allison D. Burroughs scheduled sentencing for April 24, 2024. Blount was indicted by a federal grand jury in January 2023. He has been in custody since September 2022. “Human trafficking is not just a crime; it is a profound violation of human dignity. The unimaginable harm inflicted upon victims is happening too frequently in our communities,” said Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy. “Our dedicated Human Trafficking & Civil Rights Unit remains committed to bringing traffickers to justice, providing unwavering support to survivors, and relentlessly pursuing those who exploit the most vulnerable.” “Blount admitted today that he sought out and took advantage of a vulnerable young woman and limited her freedom. This is a pattern we see again and again with human traffickers. Today’s plea brings us another step closer to justice for those he victimized,” said Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations in New England.” Between July and August 2022, Blount transported a 17-year-old victim, Jane Doe 2, from Massachusetts to New York and Connecticut to engage in commercial sex for his financial benefit. Blount met Jane Doe 2 while she was living at a Massachusetts group home for transitional age adolescents. He gave her alcohol and marijuana and recruited Jane Doe 2 to travel out-of-state to engage in commercial sex. While in New York, Blount directed Jane Doe 2 to solicit sex buyers in an area of Brooklyn that is known for commercial sex. Throughout this period, Blount stayed in close contact with Jane Doe 2, using text messages to ensure that she continued to perform sex acts when he was not physically present. To attract more sex buyers, Blount caused Jane Doe 2’s photo to be posted on websites that advertises commercial sex. He then put Jane Doe 2 in hotel rooms in Woburn, Mass. and Hartford, Conn. where he directed her to perform sex acts with buyers to earn more money. The charge of transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity 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 $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case. If you or someone you know may be impacted or experiencing commercial sex trafficking, please contact USAMA.VictimAssistance@usdoj.gov . Acting U.S. Attorney Levy and HSI SAC Krol made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian A. Fogerty of the Civil Rights & Human Trafficking Unit is prosecuting the case.


title: Danbury Man Charged with Child Exploitation Offenses

component: USAO - Connecticut

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, Robert Fuller, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Danbury Police Chief Patrick Ridenhour today announced that a federal grand jury in New Haven returned an indictment yesterday charging ENRIQUE PAULO PUCHA-JIMENEZ, 33, of Danbury, with child exploitation offenses. As alleged in the indictment, on multiple occasions between February 2020 and August 2023, Pucha-Jimenez sexually abused a girl (“the victim”) who was between the approximate ages of nine and 12. He also used his cell phone to take photographs and videos of his sexual abuse of the victim. On August 16, 2023, Danbury Police arrested Pucha-Jimenez on state sexual assault and risk of injury offenses. He has been detained since his arrest, and his state charges are pending. The indictment charges Pucha-Jimenez with production of child pornography, an offense that carries a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 15 years and a maximum term of imprisonment of 30 years, and with possession of child pornography, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. U.S. Attorney Avery stressed that an indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. Charges are only allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. This matter is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Danbury Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel E. Cummings with the assistance of the Office of the State’s Attorney for the Judicial District of Danbury. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com .


title: Registered Sex Offender From Sandisfield Pleads Guilty to Possessing Child Pornography and Unregistered Firearm

body_text: BOSTON – A Sandisfield man pleaded guilty today in federal court in Springfield to possession of child pornography and possession of an unregistered firearm. Brian Hohman, 60, pleaded guilty to one charge of possession of child pornography and one charge of receipt and possession of an unregistered firearm. U.S. District Court Judge Mark G. Mastroianni scheduled sentencing for May 2, 2024. Hohman remains in federal custody. During a search of Hohman’s residence in September 2023, a sawed-off shotgun not registered to Hohman and a laptop containing child pornography were found. Hohman was subsequently arrested and detained on an unrelated matter. A subsequent investigation revealed that Hohman also possessed two cell phones and a SIM card containing child pornography. Due to Hohman’s prior conviction, the charge of possession of child pornography provides for a sentence of at least 10 years and up to 20 years in prison, at least five years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. The charge of receipt and possession of an unregistered firearm provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and Michael J. Krol, Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police and the Litchfield Judicial District State’s Attorney’s Office in Connecticut. Assistant U.S. Attorney Catherine G. Curley of the Springfield Branch Office is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Dark Web Vendor Sentenced To Eighteen Months In Prison For Distributing Methamphetamine-Pressed Adderall Pills

component: USAO - California, Northern

body_text: SAN FRANCISCO – Tony Tan was sentenced to serve 18 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine in connection with his sale of counterfeit Adderall pills pressed with methamphetamine on the dark web, announced United States Attorney Ismail J. Ramsey; Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), San Francisco Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Brian M. Clark; San Francisco Division Postal Inspector in Charge Rafael Nuñez; and IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Oakland Field Office Acting Special Agent in Charge Michael Mosley. The sentence was handed down by the Hon. Richard Seeborg, Chief United States District Judge. Tan, 28, of San Francisco, pleaded guilty to the charge in May 2023. According to his plea agreement, Tan admitted that he operated a dark web vendor site, Adderall123, through which he sold counterfeit Adderall pills that were laced with methamphetamine. Tan admitted the counterfeit Adderall pills were created and stamped in such a way as to mirror legitimate Adderall pills; specifically, they were orange, circular, and pressed with the letters “dp” and the number “30.” Tan sold the drugs to buyers located throughout the United States. Over the years, Tan operated Adderall123 on numerous dark web marketplaces, including Empire, ASAP, White House Market and Torrez. During this time, Tan executed thousands of sales of the counterfeit Adderall pills in various quantities. Tan’s plea agreement contains additional details of his drug distribution operation. For example, the plea agreement describes how Tan distributed the counterfeit Adderall pills using the United States Postal Service by mailing the drugs in smell-proof bags contained within Priority Mail Flat Rate Envelopes. In addition, the plea agreement describes how Tan recruited others to assist with packaging and mailing the drugs. Further, Tan wrote fake sender names and addresses on the packages and paid postage in cash, all in hopes of thwarting law enforcement efforts to find the sender of the illicit packages. Also, Tan accepted payment for the counterfeit pills in cryptocurrency, which has privacy features that help users anonymize their transaction activity. On November 12, 2021, federal agents seized two packages mailed by Tan that contained over 640 methamphetamine-pressed Adderall pills—approximately 11.35 grams of actual methamphetamine. On March 29, 2023, Tan was charged by Information with one count of possession with intent to distribute 5 grams and more of methamphetamine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(viii). He pleaded guilty to the charge. In addition to the prison term, Judge Seeborg ordered Tan to forfeit $17,744 in U.S. currency as well as the cryptocurrency (Ethereum, Bitcoin, and Litecoin) seized from his accounts. Judge Seeborg also ordered Tan to serve three years of supervised release, to begin after his prison term. Judge Seeborg ordered Tan to self-surrender on April 2, 2024, to begin serving his prison term. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristina Green is prosecuting the case, with assistance from Pat Mahoney. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the DEA, CI, and USPIS.


title: Norwalk Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Pornography Offense

body_text: Vanessa Roberts Avery, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JAKE SCOTT FLEWELLYN, 26, of Norwalk, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for accessing and possessing images and videos depicting child sex abuse. According to court documents and statements made in court, in December 2021, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (“NCMEC”) received a report from the smartphone messenger application Kik about a Kik user who was distributing videos of child pornography through its service. Kik deactivated the user’s account. In early April 2022, while federal law enforcement was investigating this matter to determine the Kik user’s identity, Kik submitted to NCMEC another report of a user account that was being used to distribute videos of child pornography. The investigation revealed that Flewellyn created both Kik accounts and, between November 2021 and April 2022, used them to distribute approximately 107 images and videos depicting child sex abuse. On July 31, 2023, Flewellyn pleaded guilty to accessing with intent to view child pornography. Flewellyn, who is released on a $100,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 15. This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with the assistance of the Norwalk Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert S. Dearington and Neeraj N. Patel. This prosecution is part of the U.S. Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood Initiative, which is aimed at protecting children from sexual abuse and exploitation. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . To report cases of child exploitation, please visit www.cybertipline.com .


title: Former Professional Basketball Player Accused of Pandemic Loan Fraud

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A former professional basketball player has been arrested in Missouri after an indictment accused him of fraudulently obtaining pandemic relief funds. Lorenzo Gordon, 40, of Chesterfield, Missouri, was indicted in U.S. District Court in St. Louis January 17 on three counts of wire fraud and one count of theft of government money. He pleaded not guilty to the charges Wednesday. The indictment alleges that Gordon fraudulently applied for loans from the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) and Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Program, which were intended to help businesses and their employees during the COVID-19 pandemic. The indictment says Gordon applied for an EIDL loan for Logo Fitness LLC on June 19, 2020, falsely claiming the company had gross revenues of $96,475 in the 12 months prior to the COVID pandemic. He received a $9,000 advance and a loan of $39,200, the indictment says. On June 22, 2020, Gordon applied for an EIDL loan for Elite 50 Basketball Training LLC, falsely claiming gross revenues of $234,656 in the 12 months prior to the pandemic, the indictment says, and resulting in a $10,000 advance and a $107,300 loan. Both companies were only formed in 2020, the indictment says. The indictment also says that Gordon applied for a PPP loan on April 16, 2021, falsely stating he was sole proprietor of Lorenzo Gordon, janitorial services. Gordon received a $20,832 loan. Each wire fraud charge is punishable by up to 20 years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. The theft charge is punishable by up to 10 years in prison and the same fine. 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 Internal Revenue Service and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Klocke is prosecuting the case.


title: Zohannon Gang Member Pleads Guilty to Assaulting a Federal Officer

body_text: COLUMBUS, Ga. – A Columbus resident and member of the Zohannon criminal street gang pleaded guilty to forcibly assaulting a federal agent as law enforcement attempted to take him into custody. Christopher Upshaw aka “Trouble,” 25, pleaded guilty to one count of forcible assault on a federal officer with a deadly weapon before U.S. District Judge Clay Land on Jan. 23. Upshaw faces a maximum of 20 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release and a $250,000 fine. Upshaw is not eligible for parole. “Chris Upshaw violently assaulted and injured an FBI Special Agent and an FBI Task Force Officer who were simply doing their duty,” said U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary. “We will not tolerate such attacks against members of law enforcement, and Upshaw will now face justice.” “This case shows the risk law enforcement officers face on a daily basis” said FBI Atlanta’s Columbus Resident Agency Supervisory Senior Resident Agent Rich Bilson. “Upshaw violently assaulted both our Task Force Officer and a Special Agent. The FBI stands ready to investigate any crimes against officers. More than anything, we are thankful that the injuries were not more severe, and that this incident did not result in a loss of life.” “This was another bad choice made by Christopher Upshaw while engaged in criminal wrongdoing. His intent to do harm towards law enforcement officers will be met with serious consequences,” said Muscogee County Sheriff Greg Countryman. “I hope others will understand the penalties that come from this type of behavior.” According to court documents and the plea agreement, authorities identified a suspicious package from Northern California that was addressed to Upshaw’s residence on Buxton Drive in Columbus; it was set for delivery on Aug. 4, 2023. Upshaw was wanted on outstanding warrants at the time. FBI, DEA, Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office and Coweta County Sheriff’s Office members conducted physical surveillance at Buxton Drive on Aug. 4. The suspicious parcel was delivered at 3:30 p.m. and left on the front porch. The defendant drove up in his Dodge Charger approximately 30 minutes later to retrieve the package, which he put inside his vehicle and then entered the driver’s side. At this time, multiple unmarked law enforcement vehicles with at least one flashing its emergency lights approached Upshaw. Law enforcement officers and federal agents—all of whom were wearing agency issued body armor equipped with law enforcement insignia—exited their vehicles and advanced towards Upshaw’s car in an attempt to arrest him. Upshaw began forcibly operating his vehicle in an effort to evade arrest. FBI Special Agent (SA) M.M. attempted to open the passenger side door. Rather than complying with law enforcement’s demands to stop, Upshaw accelerated instead. Simultaneously, as a result of the vehicle’s acceleration, FBI SA M.M. was unable to release the passenger door handle and was forcibly pulled into a nearby stationary vehicle. Upshaw also struck and damaged three occupied law enforcement vehicles. In addition, an FBI Task Force Officer (TFO) on scene was struck by Upshaw’s vehicle. Upshaw sped away at a high rate of speed through the residential area and escaped but was captured several days later. During his flight from law enforcement, he discarded the suspicious package which was recovered by agents and contained approximately 17 pounds of marijuana divided into 14 bags. Upshaw has prior felony convictions for drug possession in Muscogee County, Georgia, Superior Court. Upshaw is a confirmed member of Zohannon, a hybrid criminal street gang based in Columbus with active conflicts among other gangs in the community. Upshaw is charged with attempted murder in Phenix City, Alabama, and is wanted for resisting arrest in Miami, Florida. These charges in Alabama and Florida are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. The case was investigated by FBI, DEA, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Muscogee County Sheriff’s Office and the Coweta County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Williams is prosecuting the case.


title: District Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison  For Distributing Fentanyl That Killed Two People

body_text: WASHINGTON – Sheldon Marbley, 44, of Washington, D.C., was sentenced today to 20 years in prison on five felony counts for running a drug trafficking operation in the Southwest section of the District that caused the deaths of two people and caused serious bodily injury to another two people. In his plea agreement, Marbley acknowledged to the Court that he caused at least 13 opioid overdoses, two of which resulted in deaths, in January 2022, near the area of First and O Streets near Nationals Park in Southwest Washington D.C. The sentence was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, Special Agent in Charge Jarod A. Forget of the Washington Division of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Chief Pamela A. Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD). “Fentanyl trafficking kills,” said U.S. Attorney Graves. “This defendant sold a dangerous poison that caused the deaths of two victims and the near-fatal overdoses of more than 10 others. He then knowingly continued to sell this poison to others. This 20-year sentence not only sends a message to other drug peddlers, it puts a full stop to this trafficker’s career.” “The DEA and the Metropolitan Police Department will continue to work side by side with the United States Attorney’s Office to hold criminals like Mr. Marbley accountable for pushing dangerous poisons like fentanyl throughout our area,” said SAC Forget of the DEA. “Today’s sentence sends a clear message to criminals who have no regard for human lives in our communities.” According to evidence presented in court, Marbley sold narcotics to L.L., 69, and G.H., 72, both of whom subsequently died from consuming the fentanyl and cocaine that Marbley provided. Marbley also admitted that he distributed narcotics to another male and female, and that they suffered serious bodily injury as a result of consuming the fentanyl and cocaine that Marbley provided. Marbley pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia on May 23, 2023, to one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and cocaine, two counts of unlawful distribution of fentanyl and cocaine resulting in serious bodily injury, and two counts of unlawful distribution of fentanyl and cocaine resulting in death. As part of his plea agreement, Marbley acknowledged that on the morning of January 28, 2022, and in the days thereafter, Emergency Medical Service (EMS) and MPD officers responded to at least 13 fatal and non-fatal opioid overdoses located near the area of First and O Streets, SW. Marbley admitted that, on that morning, he had distributed fentanyl and cocaine from the driver’s seat of a Mazda sedan in Southwest. Closed-circuit video footage captured that morning depicts numerous individuals approaching the front driver’s side of the Mazda and appearing to engage in narcotics purchases. Despite being aware of the mass overdose event on January 28, 2022, Marbley then went to stay at the residence of another drug user and customer, where he continued to sell narcotics until he was arrested on March 23, 2022. In addition to the prison term, U.S. District Court Judge Christopher R. Cooper ordered Marbley to serve three years of supervised release. This case was investigated by the DEA Washington Division and the MPD. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Sarah J. Rasalam and Assistant U.S. Attorney David T. Henek of the Violence Reduction and Trafficking Offenses Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Andy Wang. ##


title: Marco Island Felon Pleads Guilty To Unlawful Possession Of A Loaded Firearm

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Fort Myers, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Nicholas Munson Troemner (41, Marco Island) today pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Troemner faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to court documents, on February 16, 2023, in North Fort Myers, Troemner was in possession of a loaded Taurus pistol. At the time, Troemner had multiple prior felony firearm and drug-related convictions and was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Troemner agreed to forfeit the pistol and ammunition as part of a plea agreement. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan. 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: Former Munhall Resident Indicted on Narcotics and Firearm Violations

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – On January 23, 2024, a former resident of Munhall, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on charges of violating federal narcotics and firearm laws, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. The three-count Indictment named Benjamin Sabo, 35, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, on October 4, 2023, Sabo possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl. Additionally, Sabo possessed a firearm and ammunition in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime as a convicted felon. Federal law prohibits possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of not less than five years and up to life in prison, a fine of up to $8 million, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Katherine C. Jordan is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the City of Pittsburgh Police Department conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Meth Kingpin Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Drug Conspiracy and Stealing $2.1 Million from Pandemic Unemployment Insurance Agencies

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT – A Detroit man was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison today for leading a drug organization that trafficked methamphetamine across the country, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced today. United States District Judge David M. Lawson sentenced the leader of that organization for his role overseeing the drug conspiracy and in a separate $2.1 million pandemic unemployment insurance fraud conspiracy. Ison was joined in the announcement by Orville O. Greene, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Irene Lindow, Special Agent-in-Charge, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. Robert Lampkin, 41, led a drug conspiracy that purchased over 9 kilograms of methamphetamine from a supplier in California that codefendants JoShawn Bennett, 37, Tiffany Stockman, 24 and Tammie Wade, 32, brought back to Michigan in airline luggage. Lampkin and codefendant Brenden Lockridge, 26, separately used stolen personal identifying information of other individuals to file fraudulent claims for pandemic unemployment assistance in multiple states. Lampkin’s and Lockridge’s sentences also require them to pay back the $2.1 million stolen from multiple states as restitution. “We will use every resource available to combat those who spread the scourge of illegal drugs in our communities,” stated United States Attorney Dawn Ison. “We also won’t cease our efforts to hold accountable those who used a global pandemic to enrich themselves at the expense of taxpayers.” “The men and women of the DEA and our law enforcement partners remain committed to targeting interstate methamphetamine traffickers contributing to the nation’s drug crisis. This sentence reflects our continued resolve to partner with all our law-enforcement counterparts to fight greed, violence, and drug addiction,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Orville O. Greene. "Robert Lampkin conspired with Brenden Lockridge to file fraudulent unemployment insurance (UI) claims in the names of identity theft victims, receiving benefits to which they were not entitled. They enriched themselves by defrauding a program that was intended to assist struggling American workers during an unprecedented global pandemic," stated Special Agent-in-Charge Irene Lindow, Great Lakes Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. "We and our law enforcement partners are committed to identifying and prosecuting the criminals who took advantage of the COVID-19 pandemic by using stolen identities to fraudulently obtain pandemic UI benefits." The case was investigated by agents of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Department of Labor Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Paul Kuebler prosecuted the case for the United States. 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.


title: Former Monroeville Resident Indicted on Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act Violation

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A former resident of Monroeville, Pennsylvania, was indicted by a federal grand jury in Pittsburgh on January 23, 2024, on a charge of violating the Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. The one-count Indictment named John I. Park, 67, who formerly resided and practiced medicine in the Western District of Pennsylvania and currently resides in San Gabriel, California, as the sole defendant. According to the Indictment, from an unknown date until July 10, 2019, Park—who was a licensed and practicing physician in the Western District of Pennsylvania at that time—sold and administered nerve block injections to patients at his medical practice in Scottdale, Pennsylvania, which he had mixed and placed into syringes under unsanitary conditions at his Monroeville residence. The law provides for a maximum total sentence of up to one year in prison, a fine of not more than $100,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offense and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Robert S. Cessar is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Drug Enforcement Agency, and U.S. Food and Drug Administration conducted the investigation leading to the Indictment in this case. An indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Former Pharmaceutical Executive Pleads Guilty to Falsifying Financial Documentation

body_text: DETROIT - A Northville man pleaded guilty today to providing a financial institution with false documentation in connection with a bank loan, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison. Ison was joined in the announcement by Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detroit Field Division Theodore Toloff, 65, entered his guilty plea today before United States District Judge David M. Lawson. According to court records, Toloff served as the Chief Financial Officer of the Frank W. Kerr Company (“Kerr”), a now-defunct pharmaceutical wholesaler that had been based in Novi, Michigan. Kerr had a revolving credit agreement with two large financial institutions under which the company borrowed funds up to $60 million pursuant to a calculation dependent on the company’s eligible accounts receivable and inventory. Toloff admitted that he submitted false documentation to the financial institutions that included $18 million in ineligible accounts receivable and that Kerr borrowed additional funds after this false documentation was submitted. “Today’s guilty plea reflects my office’s continued commitment to ensuring that our banking and lending systems are not distorted through false financial information,” stated United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison. “The defendant admitted to providing false documents to a financial institution, undermining the law and integrity of our financial systems, said Special Agent in Charge Cheyvoryea Gibson of the FBI in Michigan. "The FBI works tirelessly with our partner law enforcement and regulatory agencies to investigate those who commit financial crimes. We urge the public to submit tips on alleged crimes such as those detailed in this case to 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or online at www.tips.fbi.gov ." Toloff faces a statutory maximum penalty of 30 years imprisonment. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Andrew J. Yahkind. The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of investigation.


title: Farrell Resident Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Firearm Charges

body_text: PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A resident of Farrell, Pennsylvania, pleaded guilty in federal court to drug trafficking and firearm violations, United States Attorney Eric G. Olshan announced today. Dimetrius Morris, 39, pleaded guilty before United States District Judge Robert J. Colville. In connection with the guilty plea, the court was advised that, on February 20, 2020, Morris possessed with the intent to distribute cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine, as well as a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on that date. Judge Colville scheduled sentencing for May 22, 2024. For the drug trafficking charge, the law provides for a maximum total sentence of not more than 20 years in prison, a fine of not more than $1,000,000, or both. For the firearms offense, the maximum penalty is not less than five years in prison and up to life, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed is based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant. Assistant United States Attorney Craig W. Haller is prosecuting this case on behalf of the government. The Sharon Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Farrell Police Department, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives conducted the investigation leading to the prosecution of Morris. 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 of Justice 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: Indian National Sentenced To 57 Months For Defrauding Scam Victims

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: HARRISBURG - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Rishi Budhadev, age 38, was sentenced yesterday to 57 months of imprisonment for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Budhadev is a citizen of India and has resided in Fredericksburg and Richmond, Virginia during visits to the United States. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Budhadev was found to be responsible at sentencing for over half a million dollars in fraudulent money transfers made to him between October and December 2015. Fraud victims transferred these funds to him through MoneyGram and Western Union wire transfers and through cash deposits to bank accounts that Budhadev opened and controlled. The government’s investigation determined that Budhadev, working with other unnamed co-conspirators, defrauded victims using common advance-fee mass marketing scams. The government found that Budhadev received nearly 500 MoneyGram money transfers worth over $500,000, including about 300 transfers that he picked up from seven different Walmart stores around the Richmond area. Budhadev also received around 20 Western Union money transfers and over $40,000 in deposits to his bank accounts. The government’s investigation also determined that around 50 people who sent funds to Budhadev subsequently identified themselves to MoneyGram and Western Union as victims of various scams, including investment scams, romance scams, person-in-need scams, internet purchase scams, IRS tax scams, and loan scams. At sentencing, dozens more individuals who sent funds to Budhadev identified themselves as fraud victims. At the time of his guilty plea, Budhadev admitted to receiving a series of fraudulent MoneyGram money transfers from several individuals he did not know in October 2015. He also admitted to receiving a fraudulent deposit for $9,000 in his checking account from a person he did not know. He admitted to receiving each of these transfers at the request of a coconspirator located in India. In each of these transactions, Budhadev admitted believing that the funds being transmitted to him had very likely been obtained through fraud. He admitted consciously using deliberate efforts to avoid confirming the fraudulent nature of these transactions, despite his concerns that they were fraudulent. Budhadev admitted to using the proceeds of the fraudulent MoneyGram money transfers to purchase iPhones, which he delivered to the same coconspirator located in India in February 2016. He also admitted to personally withdrawing the $9,000 in cash from his bank account the same day that it was deposited and later delivering the cash to the same coconspirator in India around February 2016. Budhadev maintained that he was responsible only for the fraudulent activity that he admitted to during his guilty plea. At sentencing, U.S. District Judge Jennifer P. Wilson determined that the evidence showed Budhadev to be responsible for the entire amount of fraudulent activity alleged by the United States, in the amount of $584,276.84. In addition to the sentence of 57 months, Budhadev was also ordered to pay $62,672.29 in restitution to fraud victims and to serve a period of supervised release of three years following his imprisonment. Budhadev faces potential deportation following his term of imprisonment. The case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Ravi Romel Sharma prosecuted the case. # # #


title: Prior Convicted Drug Trafficker Sentenced To More Than 10 Years In Federal Prison On Methamphetamine Offense

body_text: Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Brian J. Davis has sentenced Andrez Galarza Miranda (51, Mexico) to 10 years and 1 month in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Galarza Miranda had pleaded guilty on September 29, 2023. According to court documents, on May 6, 2022, Miranda made arrangements to sell 15 pounds of methamphetamine to a confidential informant outside a restaurant in Jacksonville. Upon arrival to the agreed upon location, a traffic stop was initiated and Miranda was found in possession of 15 pounds of methamphetamine. At the time, Miranda was on supervised release after having served 18 years in federal prison for conspiring to distribute marijuana and more than 5 kilograms of cocaine, and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking. This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Brenna Falzetta.


title: Northern Minnesota Felon Sentenced to More Than 24 Years in Prison for Illegal Possession of a Firearm

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – An Onamia man has been sentenced to 292 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for illegal possession of a firearm following a domestic assault, announced United States Attorney Andrew M. Luger. According to court documents, on November 19, 2020, Leech Lake Tribal Police were dispatched to a residence following a report that Justin Lyle Cutbank, 37, had physically assaulted a woman, held her at gunpoint, threatened to kill her, and then fled the residence into the woods. Shortly after officers arrived at the residence and took the victim’s statement, a neighbor reported that Cutbank was in their garage and refused to leave. Officers from multiple agencies responded to the location and found Cutbank barricaded in the garage. Several hours of negotiations followed with Cutbank retreating into the attic of the garage and refusing to surrender. Ultimately, officers were able to apprehend Cutbank, who continued to actively resist arrest. The following day, officers searched the wooded area where Cutbank had fled and found a Marlin Model 100 .22 caliber rifle with no serial number, a knife, and the victim’s cell phone. Because Cutbank has multiple prior felony convictions, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time. On March 17, 2023, Cutbank was convicted by a federal jury on one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. He was sentenced yesterday in U.S. District Court by Judge Michael J. Davis. This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Leech Lake Tribal Police Department, the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, and the Cass County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley M. Endicott and Ruth S. Shnider prosecuted the case.


title: Two persons sentenced for intimidation after assault and attempted theft from Fort Belknap Indian Reservation store

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: GREAT FALLS — A man and a woman who admitted to intimidation charges after they attempted to steal from a store on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation were sentenced today, U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich said. Dustin Alan Robbins, 38, and Nicole Lynn Hicks, 37, both transients, pleaded guilty to intimidation in August 2023. Robbins was sentenced to one year in prison, to be followed by two years of supervised release. Hicks was sentenced to time served of 262 days, to be followed by two years of supervised release. Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided. In court documents, the government alleged that on Nov. 1, 2021, Hicks and Robbins, who are non-Indian, entered the Red Paint Creek Trading Post in Lodge Pole, on the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation. At the time, both had been excluded from the reservation by the Fort Belknap community for an incident that occurred near Hays in September 2021. Hicks took a 30-pack of beer without paying and left the store. A store employee, who is an Indian person, followed Hicks outside. Hicks put the beer on the ground as she was going through a fence. The store employee went to retrieve the beer and picked it up. The government further alleged that Robbins assaulted the employee and threatened to burn down the store. After learning of the theft, the store manager, also an Indian person, went outside and saw Robbins assaulting the employee. The store manager yelled that she had called the police and picked up a large rock to defend the employee. Robbins stopped the assault and ran away with Hicks. As they were leaving, Hicks kept screaming and Robbins yelled threats, including that he was with the mafia and was going to burn down the store. Tribal police located Robbins and Hicks at a home on the reservation, despite their prior exclusion, and removed them from the reservation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda L. Myers prosecuted the case. The FBI and Fort Belknap Law Enforcement conducted the investigation. XXX


title: Nevada Man Sentenced to Eight Years in Prison for Child Pornography Offenses

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A Reno, Nevada man, was sentenced to 96 months in prison and five years of supervised release for the receipt and possession of child pornography, known as child sexual abuse material (CSAM). On August 30, 2023, Sean Paul Holt, 28, pled guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography. Holt will also have to register as a sex offender. According to court documents and other information presented in court, Holt was an active-duty member of the United States Army, who was stationed at Ft. Liberty (previously known as Ft. Bragg) at the time of the offense. In April 2020, Holt purchased CSAM from a Tor site dedicated to selling material depicting sadistic sexual abuse of young boys. Investigators traced the bitcoin transactions to accounts belonging to Holt and found evidence that Holt’s phone was one of several devices using the relevant IP address at the time of the transaction. Later, in Spring 2021, investigators received multiple Cybertips regarding suspected CSAM in a Tumblr account that was tied to an email address that investigators had previously identified as belonging to Holt. On May 19, 2021, investigators executed a federal search warrant at Holt’s residence, and seized multiple electronic devices. A forensic examination revealed hundreds of CSAM files, including CSAM of prepubescent minors, on Holt’s phone. Investigators also found a Mega account used to store thousands of additional CSAM files. During the search warrant, Holt consented to a voluntary, non-custodial interview and made a number of admissions, including purchasing CSAM from a website, and accessing CSAM on and off for a number of years. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge James C. Dever III. The Department of Homeland Security, and the United States Army, Criminal Investigative Division investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan M. Stephany prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc. A copy of this press release is located on our website . Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 5:22-CR-00007-D. ###


title: Halifax County Man Sentenced to More than Eight Years on Federal Drug Charges

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A Halifax County man was sentenced to 100 months in prison for trafficking methamphetamine. On October 16, 2023, Taj’ma De’yong Ussery, also known as “Pop Off,” was convicted by a federal jury. “Drug traffickers are pushing dangerous and illegal drugs in vulnerable communities, driving up rates of addiction and overdose,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “We are partnering with law enforcement to stop this cycle by investigating and prosecuting those supplying the narcotics. This conviction is a result of our strong partnership with local law enforcement, who are working tirelessly to keep their communities safe.” According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Ussery, age 26, distributed five grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance on December 21, 2022. The sale was a hand-to-hand transaction with a confidential informant. Ussery was identified as a regular dealer of fentanyl and methamphetamine in the community who worked within a network of others to distribute drugs throughout Halifax County. This indictment resulted as part of a larger effort to combat drug and gang-related violence in Halifax County North Carolina and was the result of coordination between the Halifax County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the United States Attorney’s Office. “I want to thank our dedicated drug agents along with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their hard work on this case,” said Halifax County Sheriff Tyree Davis. “A sentence like this sends a strong message to those in our community who would engage in dealing dangerous drugs. We will hold you accountable and seek justice.” Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle. Halifax County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Agency investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ashley Foxx and Phil Aubart prosecuted the case. A copy of this press release is located on our website . Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No.4:23-cr-00034-BO-RJ-1. ###


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Eastern District of Missouri Collects More than $21 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2023

body_text: ST. LOUIS – U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming announced today that the Eastern District of Missouri collected $21,046,154 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2023. Of this amount, $18,383,768 was collected in criminal actions and $2,662,385 was collected in civil actions. Additionally, the Eastern District of Missouri worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $10,675 in criminal cases pursued jointly by these offices. “Our Financial Litigation Unit works tirelessly to identify and recover assets so we can attempt to make victims whole,” said U.S. Attorney Sayler A. Fleming. Among the money collected in criminal cases last year was millions of dollars fraudulently obtained by two Jefferson County chiropractors and their co-defendants in a long-running Social Security disability fraud conspiracy. At the direction of the chiropractor, the co-defendants falsely claimed they were unable to work and underwent medically unnecessary tests to support fraudulent applications for disability benefits. After sentencing, the Financial Litigation Unit initiated various collection actions by issuing subpoenas, recording liens against the defendants’ property and garnishing the defendants’ wages, bank accounts, investment accounts, retirement and pension accounts, Social Security checks, tax refunds, and other assets. More than $3.5 million has been recovered so far, including $95,684 from Hobbs, $205,214 from Hobbs’ wife and fellow chiropractor Vivian Carbone Hobbs and amounts ranging from $70,603 to $478,336 from individual patients. Among the civil settlements was one finalized in February with Great Circle , a nonprofit behavioral health provider that admitted making false statements when billing for services that were not actually provided to foster youth. They agreed to pay $1,866,000. The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs. Additionally, the U.S. Attorney’s office in the Eastern District of Missouri, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $9,337,250 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2023. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.


title: Henderson Man Pleads Guilty to Causing Two Overdose Deaths and Faces a Minimum of 20 Years in Prison

component: USAO - Kentucky, Western

body_text: Owensboro, KY – Today, a Henderson, Kentucky man pleaded guilty to two counts of distributing fentanyl resulting in death. U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Chief Sean L. McKinney of the Henderson Police Department, and Sheriff David Crafton of the Henderson County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement. According to court documents, Elijah Lovell, 20, pleaded guilty to two counts of distributing fentanyl resulting in death. Between December 27, 2021, and January 31, 2022, Lovell distributed fentanyl that resulted in the death of another person, “J.H.” Additionally, on or about May 5, 2022, Lovell distributed fentanyl that resulted in the death of another person, “C.G.” Lovell is scheduled to be sentenced on April 17, 2024. He faces a minimum sentence of 20 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system. The Henderson Police Department and Henderson County Sheriff’s Office are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case. ###


title: Las Cruces Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Armed Robbery

body_text: ALBUQUERQUE – Alexander M.M. Uballez, United States Attorney for the District of New Mexico, and Raul Bujanda, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office announced today that Myles Delando Luciano was sentenced to 46 months in prison. Luciano, 27, of Las Cruces, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by threats or violence on May 1, 2023. In his plea agreement, Luciano admitted that on July 27, 2022, he and Joshua Lopez wrongfully obtained property from Lowe's Home Improvement by taking the property without paying for it using the threat of force, violence, and fear. Luciano admitted that the items of property they stole had moved in interstate commerce and that, as a result, interstate commerce was further delayed, obstructed, and impacted by our actions because the store was forced to expend time and resources for law enforcement to investigate the robbery. Upon his release from prison, Luciano will be subject to 3 years of supervised release. Joshua Lopez, 26, of Las Cruces, pleaded guilty to three counts of interference with commerce by threats or violence on Aug. 8, 2023. Lopez remains in custody pending sentencing, which is currently not scheduled. The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Las cruces Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Maria Y. Armijo and Ry Ellison are prosecuting the case. View the Plea Agreement # # # 24-30


title: Fort Myers Felon Pleads Guilty To Possessing Loaded Firearm

body_text: Fort Myers, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jonnetric Devonte Ivey (30, Fort Myers) today pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Ivey faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. According to the plea agreement, on March 22, 2023, Ivey was stopped by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office for a traffic stop. Ivey made a throwing motion prior to complying with the deputy’s demands. In the same area of the throwing motion, deputies located a loaded Taurus pistol. DNA evidence later linked Ivey to the loaded pistol. At the time, Ivey was a convicted felon and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. Ivey agreed to forfeit the loaded pistol as a part of the plea agreement. This case was investigated by the Lee County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan. 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: Lincoln County Man Admits Producing Child Pornography

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A Lincoln County, Missouri man on Wednesday admitted producing images of the sexual abuse of two victims who were preschool age or younger. Christopher C. Parker, 32, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court in St. Louis to two counts of production of child pornography and one count of distributing child pornography. The investigation into Parker began on March 21, 2023, when the FBI’s St. Louis office received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children about Parker’s uploading of child pornography via his Quora account. They obtained a court-approved search warrant and served it the next day, finding electronic devices with image and video files containing child sexual abuse material and an image that Parker produced and sent via Wickr. Parker also admitted sexually abusing two toddler and preschool-aged children and recording that abuse. Parker is scheduled to be sentenced on May 1. The U.S. Attorney’s office will recommend a sentence of 27 years in prison. The FBI and the St. Charles County Cyber Crime Task Force investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jillian Anderson is prosecuting the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Department of Justice Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc .


title: Level 3 Sex Offender Sentenced to 22 Years in Prison for Soliciting Minors on Social Media

body_text: BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced today for coercing a minor he found on TikTok to send him child sexual abuse material. Hector Acevedo, 33, of Jamaica Plain, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Patti B. Saris to 22 years in prison and five years of supervised release. In October 2023, Acevedo pleaded guilty to one count of receipt of child pornography by a recidivist. Acevedo, a Level 3 registered sex offender, was previously convicted in Suffolk County Superior Court on multiple child and sexual exploitation offenses including trafficking of a person for sexual servitude, extortion by threat of injury, posing or exhibiting a child in state of nudity or sexual conduct, dissemination of matter harmful to minors, dissemination of child pornography and purchase or possession of child pornography. On Feb. 13, 2018, Acevedo was sentenced to five-to-seven years in state prison and three years of probation. Just months after his release from prison, while on state probation, Acevedo contacted a 13-year-old girl via TikTok, claiming to be a 17-year-old boy, and asked for her phone number. He then began texting the victim, asking her to send nude pictures of herself to him, and eventually coerced the victim to engage in sexual conduct over video chat. Acevedo also asked for her address, although she did not give it to him. He later solicited other children online on other platforms, pretending to be a pre-teen or teenage girl, and asked them to provide him with nude pictures. Acting United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Boston Police Commissioner Michael Cox made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Arlington and Revere Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elianna J. Nuzum of the Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc .