title: St. Louis County Man Sentenced to 5+ Years for $777,000 Pandemic Fraud

component: USAO - Missouri, Eastern

body_text: ST. LOUIS –U.S. District Judge John A. Ross on Friday sentenced a man from St. Louis County, Missouri who submitted nearly $980,000 in fraudulent applications to a pandemic relief loan program to five years and 5 months in prison. Terrell Alexander, 46, received $777,400 in loans, but more than $200,000 has been recovered. Judge Ross ordered Alexander to repay the $511,600 remaining. Alexander admitted submitting 10 fraudulent applications to obtain Economic Injury Disaster Loans and advances from the Small Business Administration. The applications contained fraudulent information about the size and ownership of the businesses, the number of employees and revenue. Some of the businesses existed but others were fictional or inactive. Alexander used Social Security numbers belonging to others on applications, including one belonging to a child. He also used a fake name and fraudulent driver’s license on other applications and real people’s names and information, sometimes with their knowledge. The money was supposed to go businesses that had been negatively affected by the coronavirus pandemic. “You weren’t just stealing from the government,” Ross told Alexander in court Friday. “You were stealing from people who needed this money and didn’t get it because there wasn’t enough.” Alexander pleaded guilty in November to ten counts of wire fraud, five counts of aggravated identity theft, two counts of unlawful transfer of an identification document and one count of theft of government property. “Terrell Alexander misused and fabricated Social Security numbers to defraud CARES Act benefit programs,” said Gail S. Ennis, Inspector General for the Social Security Administration. “He fraudulently obtained over $770,000 from programs intended to assist businesses and individuals facing economic disadvantages due to the pandemic. This sentence holds him accountable for these egregious acts. My office will continue our work with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice. I want to thank the FBI, SBA-OIG for their work in this joint investigation, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Klocke for prosecuting the case.” The case was investigated by the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, the Small Business Administration Office of the Inspector General and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Diane Klocke is prosecuting the case.


title: Prolific Drug Trafficking Organization Dismantled

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Western

body_text: JOHNSTOWN – Fifty-seven defendants have been charged in two separate, but related Indictments, and by Criminal Complaint, with violating federal narcotics and firearms laws, Acting United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today. Agents from the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Department of Homeland Security – Homeland Security Investigations in the Western District of Pennsylvania initially began investigating a violent street gang operating in western Pennsylvania beginning in 2018. Agents received information from confidential sources, conducted more than 50 controlled buys from members of the organization, and used other investigative techniques over the course of this lengthy investigation. In May 2022, agents commenced court-authorized Title III interception of telephones used by members of the drug trafficking organization. The wiretaps revealed that the DTO was conducting drug trafficking operations in the following areas: Indiana, Westmoreland, and Armstrong counties in the Western District of Pennsylvania; Cleveland, Ohio; Phoenix, Arizona; Seattle, Washington; Minneapolis, Minnesota; Wichita, Kansas; and in Mexico. These interceptions revealed that Arizona-sourced drugs, which consisted of fentanyl (in both pill and powdered form), heroin, cocaine, crack cocaine, and methamphetamine, were being distributed in our communities by the western Pennsylvania members of the DTO. Over the past ten months, investigators have seized more than 673 pounds of fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills, over 400 pounds of methamphetamine, and more than 16 pounds each of fentanyl powder and cocaine, over $600,000 in cash, nine vehicles, and 47 firearms. “The Department of Justice is working tirelessly to remove deadly fentanyl from our communities and to dismantle and hold accountable the violent cartels and drug-trafficking organizations responsible for distributing it,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Rivetti. “We are committed to using every tool at our disposal to save lives. Operation Lake Effect exemplifies that commitment.” “These defendants exploited our neighborhoods as they dealt deadly fentanyl and other drugs without a second thought to the harm being inflicted on the community,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Mike Nordwall. “This multi-state state operation is an outstanding example of what federal, state and local law enforcement can accomplish when we work together to target the individuals who threaten the safety and stability of our neighborhoods. The FBI is committed to working with our partners to rid the streets of this type of criminal activity and the violence that so often accompanies it.” “The sheer quantity of narcotics seized and the magnitude of defendants charged in this investigation is staggering,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia William S. Walker. “But even more impactful is how this investigation disrupted nearly every distribution apparatus of a prolific drug trafficking organization peddling addictive opioids and narcotics in communities all over the United States. These are the types of far-reaching investigations that bring about real and positive change in our communities, and these successes could not have been achieved without the selfless dedication and seamless cooperation of the many investigators and prosecutors who took part. This investigation will cause ripples within drug trafficking markets throughout the country, underscoring HSI’s worldwide strategy to counter threats posed by opioids and dangerous narcotics. Most importantly, cases like this one save lives.” The 25 residents of Pennsylvania and Ohio named in a four-count indictment returned on Feb. 14, 2023, and unsealed today are: Robert Hurst, 44, of North Royalton, OH; Barry Baker, 44, of Indiana, PA; Michael Brown, 41, of Indiana, PA; Kayda Burek, 23, of New Kensington, PA; Joseph Busch, 43, of New Kensington, PA; Christine Cafazzo, 53, of New Kensington, PA; Ernest Clinton, 40, of Leechburg, PA; Misti Durante, 38, of Indiana, PA; Travis Ezekiel, 34, of Cleveland, OH; Melissa Frain, 34, of Indiana, PA; Frank Gardner, 38, of Indiana, PA; Keith Hurst, 45, of Tarentum, PA; Kasmin James, 38, of New Kensington, PA; Lamar Johnson, 40, of Indiana, PA; Thomas King, Jr., 55, of New Kensington, PA; Torrence Lyde, 33, of Cleveland, OH; Lonnie McCann, 48, of Pittsburgh, PA; Kareem Middlebrook, 41, Creekside, PA; Devan Nicholson, 29, of New Kensington, PA; Milton Paschal, 43, of Arnold, PA; Cathie Payson, 52, of Indiana, PA; Kevin Thomas, 46, of Vandergrift, PA; DeAngelo Ward, 33, of Cleveland, OH; Ashley Weston, 38, of Muncy, PA; and David Williams, 60, of Creekside, PA. The Indictment charges all defendants with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute Schedule I and Schedule II controlled substances, from August 2018 to February 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania. All defendants are facing a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration. Kareem Middlebrook is charged at Count Two with possession with intent to distribute a quantify of fentanyl, on or about May 2, 2022. The statute calls for a maximum sentence of 20 years of incarceration. Kareem Middlebrook is charged at Count Three with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, on or about May 2, 2022. The statute calls for a maximum sentence of ten years of incarceration. Kareem Middlebrook is charged at Count Four with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, on or about May 2, 2022. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration. A one-count Superseding indictment, returned on Feb. 14, 2023, and unsealed today named the following 29 individuals as defendants: Marcos Monarrez-Mendoza, 53, of Phoenix, AZ; Samuel Aguirre, 21, of Phoenix, AZ; Marcos Armenta, 22, of Phoenix, AZ; Mark Camacho, 24, of Phoenix, AZ; Robert Foster, 25, of Buckeye, AZ; Donald Garwood, 40, of Glendale, AZ; Erivan Guerrero, 22, of Phoenix, AZ; Bryce Hill, 25, Seattle, WA; Emmanuel Lopez, 27, of Glendale, AZ; Cesar Monarrez, 25, of Maricopa, AZ; Marcos Monarrez, Jr., 23, of Phoenix, AZ; Jairo Morales, 21, of Phoenix, AZ; Stephanie Ortiz, 24, of Avondale, AZ; Valerie Sanchez, 35, of Phoenix, AZ; Heaven West, 21, of Phoenix, AZ; Carlos Zamora, 27, of Peoria, AZ; Humberto Arredondo-Soto, 23, of Phoenix, AZ; Colby Barrow, 29, of Peoria, AZ; Luis Chavez-Ortega, 26, of Glendale, AZ; Donnell Collins, 27, of Cleveland, OH; Mohamed Kariye, 34, of Kent, WA; Jesus Lopez, 21, of Phoenix, AZ; Diego Monarrez, 21, of Phoenix, AZ; Avante Nix, 20, of Saint Paul, MN; Alicia Parks, 24, of Kent, WA; James Pinkston, 32, of Pittsburgh, PA; Jesus Ramirez, 25, of Phoenix, AZ; Sahal Sahal, 36, of SeaTac, WA; and Diamond Williams-Dorsey, 29, of Cleveland, OH. The Superseding Indictment charges all defendants with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine, from April 2022 to January 2023, in the Western District of Pennsylvania. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years of incarceration. Three additional defendants are charged by Criminal Complaint. Raheem Hurst, 25, of Garfield Heights, OH; Leah Jackson, 37, of New Kensington, PA; and Samantha Jones. 40. of Arnold, PA, are charged with conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine. The statute calls for a mandatory minimum sentence of five years of incarceration. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendants. Assistant United States Attorney Arnold P. Bernard, Jr. is prosecuting these cases for the government. This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Laurel Highlands Resident Agency, Homeland Security Investigations, and FBI Pittsburgh’s Southwest Pennsylvania Safe Streets Task Force conducted the investigation leading to the charges in this case. Additional federal agencies participating in this investigation include HSI and FBI in Phoenix and Seattle, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Marshals Service, and the Federal Air Marshals Service. Other participating agencies include the Pennsylvania State Police, Pennsylvania Attorney General's Office, New Kensington Police Department, Westmoreland County Detectives, Indiana Borough Police Department, Phoenix (Arizona) Police Department, Scottsdale (Arizona) Police Department, and the Arizona Department of Public Safety. Valuable assistance was provided by the Indiana County District Attorney’s Office, the Westmoreland County District Attorney’s Office, the Cambria County District Attorney’s Office, and the Beaver County District Attorney’s Office. An indictment or a superseding indictment is an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.


title: Alleged Fentanyl Trafficker Who Advertised to Carrollton Kids Federally Charged

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: A Carrollton drug dealer who allegedly capitalized on the arrest of two prominent fentanyl traffickers to entice young buyers has been charged with a federal drug crime, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton. Donovan Jude Andrews, 20, was arrested in Carrollton on Wednesday, charged via criminal complaint with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. He made his initial appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge Rebecca Rutherford Friday morning and was ordered detained pending trial. According to court documents, in early February 2023, Mr. Andrews allegedly commented on an Instagram post announcing the arrest of Luis Navarrete and Magaly Cano , the pair allegedly tied to at least ten juvenile overdoses in the Carrollton Farmers Branch School District. Posting under the handle “deegetbandz_3x,” Mr. Andrews noted that Navarrete and Cano “took all the ATTENTION” from law enforcement and divulged that he was selling M/30 pills for $10 apiece. He later shared an Instagram post announcing the overdose deaths of three kids tied to Navarrete and Cano with the caption “F**k em come get em.” Shortly thereafter, a 14-year-old girl suffering from an apparent fentanyl overdose told police that she purchased five M/30 pills from the individual using the “deegetbandz_3x” Instagram account. She said she paid the individual via cash app and he dropped the pills in her mailbox. Home surveillance video confirmed the delivery. Law enforcement surveilled Mr. Andrews’ home and observed him allegedly conducting hand-to-hand transactions on the street outside. They also located an 18-year-old girl, a student at Hebron High School, who admitted to buying pills from a man named “Donovan” who used the “deegetbandz_3x” Instagram handle. In early March, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a Toyota Camry linked to Mr. Andrews. Mr. Andrews, who had a baggie of pills stashed inside in his sock, sat in the passenger seat next to a 17-year-old driver. The 17-year-old, a student at Hebron High School, told law enforcement that he drove Mr. Andrews around in return for M30 fentanyl pills. Mr. Andrews allegedly admitted to law enforcement that he sold M/30 pills using the Instagram handle “deegetbandz_3x.” He further confirmed he delivered pills to the 14-year-old girl’s mailbox and gave the 17-year-old pills in return for his driving services. According to the complaint, law enforcement concluded that Mr. Andrews allegedly dealt fentanyl to minors knowing fully well that counterfeit M/30 pills like the ones he was distributing were responsible for multiple overdoses and deaths. “Most of us recoiled in horror when we heard that nine Carrollton children suffered ten fentanyl overdoses in the span of just six months. Mr. Andrews, on the other hand, allegedly seized on the situation as a marketing opportunity. Knowing full well that fentanyl was killing our kids, he allegedly attempted to convert survivors into customers,” said U.S. Attorney Leigha Simonton. “The Justice Department works tirelessly to investigate and prosecute fentanyl traffickers. But when we arrest one dealer, another inevitably pops up to take his place. We need the community’s help to educate our kids about the danger of fentanyl. One pill – or even half or a quarter of one pill – can kill.” “The arrest of Mr. Andrews serves as notice to those who participate in any aspect of drug trafficking: DEA Dallas will continue to partner with our communities to educate and prevent these drugs from reaching our homes and will most importantly, hold those accountable who choose to distribute and profit from this poison,” said Eduardo A. Chavez, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Dallas Field Division. A criminal complaint is merely an allegation of criminal conduct, not evidence. Mr. Andrews is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, as are Luis Navarrete and Magaly Cano. If convicted, Mr. Andrews faces up to 20 years in federal prison. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Dallas Field Division and the Carrollton Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Rick Calvert and Phelesa Guy are prosecuting the case. Note: Illicitly produced, fentanyl-laced pills often look similar to legitimate prescription pills like Oxycontin or Percocet, but can pose significantly more danger. On the street, these pills are often referred to as “M30s” (a reference to the markings on some of the pills), “blues,” “perks,” “yerks,” “china girls,” or “TNT.” DEA research shows that six out of ten pills laced with fentanyl contain a potentially lethal dose. One pill can kill. For resources, visit https://www.dea.gov/onepill .


title: Coats Drug Dealer Sentenced to More Than 12 Years in Prison

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A Coats man was sentenced today to 150 months in prison for dealing crystal methamphetamine in 2021. On October 6, 2022, Richard Gordon Frame, 35, pled guilty to the charges. According to court documents and other information presented in court, a multi-agency investigation identified that Frame and co-defendant Christopher McNeill (charged separately) were trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine in Harnett County. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made multiple controlled purchases of 100% pure crystal methamphetamine from Frame who was supplied by McNeill. A total of 194.9 grams of the substance was purchased. Frame was previously convicted of assault with a deadly weapon, larceny, trespassing, and additional drug possession charges. Details of McNeill’s sentencing in this case and prior conviction information can be found here . 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 and Firearms, Coats Police Department, Dunn Police Department, Harnett County Sherriff’s Department, and the State Bureau of Investigation investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Casey L. Peaden prosecuted the case. 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-00174-D-BM. ###


title: Lakeland Regional Medical Center Agrees to Pay $4 Million to Settle Common Law Allegations for Impermissible Medicaid Donations

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Tampa, FL – Lakeland Regional Medical Center (LRMC) in Lakeland, Florida, has agreed to pay the United States $4 million to resolve allegations that it made donations to a local unit of government to improperly fund the state’s share of Medicaid payments to LRMC. The Florida Medicaid program provides medical assistance to low-income individuals and individuals with disabilities, and is jointly funded by the federal and state governments. Under federal law, Florida’s share of Medicaid payments must consist of state or local government funds, and may not come from “non-bona fide donations” from private health care providers, such as hospitals. A non-bona fide donation is a payment — in cash or in kind — from a private provider to a governmental entity that is then returned to the private provider through a payment by Medicaid. Because Medicaid services are reimbursed jointly by the federal and state governments, a non-bona fide donation causes federal expenditures to increase without any corresponding increase in state expenditures, since the state share of the Medicaid payments to the provider comes from and is returned to the provider. The prohibition of this practice ensures that states are in fact paying a share of Medicaid payments and thus have an incentive to curb Medicaid costs and prevent unnecessary services. The United States alleged that, between October 2014 and September 2015, LRMC made improper, non-bona fide donations to Polk County, Florida by assuming and paying certain of Polk County’s financial obligations to other healthcare providers. These donations were designed to increase Medicaid payments received by LRMC, by freeing up funds for the County to make payments to the State as the state share of Medicaid payments to LRMC. This state share was “matched” by the federal government before being returned to LRMC as Medicaid payments. The Medicaid payments LRMC received were thus funded by the federal government and LRMC’s own donations, in violation of the prohibition on non-bona fide donations. “When private parties make improper donations to fund the state share of Medicaid, they undermine a key safeguard for ensuring the integrity of the Medicaid program,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “Medicaid expenditures should be determined by beneficiaries’ medical needs rather than by donations by private hospitals to local units of government.” “Protecting the Medicaid program is crucial, as millions of Floridians rely on it for their medical care and related services,” said U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg for the Middle District of Florida. “We are committed to ensuring that government funds are used for their intended purposes and are not improperly obtained.” The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, with assistance from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. The matter was handled by Fraud Section Attorneys Alison B. Rousseau and Jonathan T. Thrope and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carolyn B. Tapie. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.


title: UNITED STATES AND STATE OF WISCONSIN SECURE FALSE CLAIMS ACT JUDGMENT OF OVER $2.3 MILLION AGAINST SUBSTANCE ABUSE TREATMENT PROVIDER

component: USAO - Wisconsin, Eastern

body_text: United States Attorney Gregory J. Haanstad of the Eastern District of Wisconsin announced that on March 2, 2023, United States District Judge Joseph P. Stadtmueller entered default judgment against Dr. Siamak Arassi and his clinic, Healing Corner, LLC, in the amount of $2,346,545.78 for violations of the False Claims Act. As alleged in the United States and State of Wisconsin’s Joint Complaint in Intervention, Healing Corner and its sole practitioner, Dr. Arassi, caused the submission of false claims to the Wisconsin Medicaid Program by ordering excess Vivitrol, a medication used to treat alcohol dependance and prevent relapse to opioid dependance. Vivitrol is administered by a healthcare professional to patients monthly and reimbursed by Wisconsin Medicaid at approximately $1600 per injection. Despite prescribing, requesting refill, and receiving delivery of prescription Vivitrol from a specialty pharmacy, Healing Corner routinely did not administer the Vivitrol to the patient for whom it was prescribed, but instead, at the direction of Dr. Arassi, routinely ordered Vivitrol prescriptions in the name of former patients of Healing Corner, which were reimbursed by Wisconsin Medicaid. This practice generated a stockpile of excess Vivitrol, which Healing Corner administered to non-Medicaid patients for cash—often paying Healing Corner over $1000 out of pocket per month. Healing Corner also administered free samples of Vivitrol to Medicaid patients but still submitted claims to Medicaid for reimbursement. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office prioritizes efforts to stop healthcare fraud and is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to protect health care program beneficiaries and the American taxpayers,” said U. S. Attorney Haanstad. “This judgment demonstrates our continuing efforts to combat violations of the False Claims Act.” “Seeking reimbursement for medications that are not administered to the intended beneficiary for profit, undermines the integrity of medical professionals who we entrust to care for our most vulnerable populations,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to pursue medical professionals and others who defraud our Federal health care programs.” “Those who cheat the Medicaid system must be held accountable,” said Attorney General Kaul. “Thank you to the investigators and prosecutors who have secured this significant judgment.” The judgment includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Clarence Christiansen, the stepfather of a former Healing Corner patient. Healing Corner had ordered multiple Vivitrol prescriptions in the former patient’s name, which the former patient never requested and never received. The resolution obtained in the matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, Office of Inspector General, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the Wisconsin Department of Justice. Assistant United States Attorneys Maura Flaherty and Michael Carter represented the United States in this matter. # # # For Additional Information Contact: Public Information Officer Kenneth.Gales@usdoj.gov 414-297-1700 Follow us on Twitter


title: St. Charles County Man Accused of Defrauding Vehicle Buyers

body_text: ST. LOUIS – A man from St. Peters, Missouri has been indicted and accused of selling the same vehicle multiple times online and defrauding other vehicle owners in a scheme that allegedly cost victims at least $300,000. Ronald Johnson, 55, was indicted February 15 on two felony counts of wire fraud and one count of bank fraud. He pleaded not guilty February 24 and appeared in U.S. District Court in St. Louis Friday at a hearing that could determine if he is jailed until trial. The indictment says Johnson owned a car restoration business known as Full Out Customs LLC, and from December 2021 to December 2022 sold a 2002 Ford Excursion to multiple people via social media, including Facebook. He also received payment from people who were seeking repairs on vehicles, but never did the work, the indictment says. Johnson ordered equipment to repair vehicles but never paid, or post-dated checks drawn on closed accounts or accounts with insufficient funds, the indictment says. He also falsified car titles, emails and other documents to further his scheme, it says. The indictment says Johnson used victims’ money to take vacations with his girlfriend and to fuel a gambling habit. 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 case was investigated by the St. Charles Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Edward Dowd III is prosecuting the case.


title: Santa Rosa Man Sentenced to 10 Years for Possession of Child Pornography and Manufacturing Methamphetamine on Tohono O’odham Nation

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Stephen Folson, 37, of Santa Rosa, Arizona, was sentenced on Tuesday by United States District Judge Cindy K. Jorgenson to 10 years’ incarceration. Folson, an enrolled member of the Tohono O’odham Nation, pleaded guilty to one count of Possession of Child Pornography and one count of Endangering Human Life While Illegally Manufacturing Methamphetamine. Folson was arrested on March 2, 2021, after an investigation revealed that he was purchasing precursor chemicals from Canada and China to manufacture methamphetamine at his residence. Law enforcement agents served a search warrant at the residence, on the Tohono O’odham Nation Reservation, and discovered a substantial amount of laboratory equipment and precursor chemical that was used to manufacture methamphetamine. Folson shared the residence with another adult and two minor children. Agents also searched Folson’s cellular phone and an external hard drive located in the residence and determined that the devices contained over 1,000 images and several videos of child pornography. Upon release from prison, Folson will be placed on lifetime supervised release with conditions of supervision. He will be required to register as a sex offender and to complete a sex offender treatment program. He also was ordered to pay restitution to victims depicted in the child sex abuse images he possessed. 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, 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 . Agents from the NATIVE (Native American Targeted Investigations of Violent Enterprises) Task Force, including from Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Border Patrol, and the Tohono O’odham Police Department participated in the investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Carin C. Duryee and Ryan P. DeJoe, District of Arizona, Tucson, handled the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: CR 21-00545-TUC-CKJ CR 21-02664-TUC-CKJ RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-028_Folson # # # 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: Convicted Felon Indicted For Possession Of A Firearm And Ammunition

body_text: Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces the return of an indictment charging Martez Manning (26, St. Petersburg) with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. If convicted, Manning faces up to 15 years in federal prison. The indictment notifies the defendant that the government intends to forfeit the firearm and ammunition traceable to the offense. According to the indictment, on January 2, 2023, Manning possessed a Beretta model 21A Bobcat semiautomatic pistol and two rounds of CCI .22 caliber long rifle ammunition. Manning has seven prior felony convictions including possession of cocaine; tampering with physical evidence; and multiple convictions for either the sale or delivery of cocaine. As a previously convicted felon, Manning is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law. An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the St. Petersburg Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky. 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: Two Individuals Sentenced for Kidnapping Resulting in Death

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. – A federal judge today sentenced two individuals, in separate but related cases, for kidnapping and conspiracy to kidnap a minor victim, announced U.S. Attorney Prim F. Escalona and Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent in Charge Carlton L. Peeples. U.S. District Court Judge L. Scott Coogler sentenced Patrick Devone Stallworth, 42, and Derick Irisha Brown, 32, both of Birmingham, to life in prison. Stallworth and Brown were convicted in 2022 of one count of kidnapping and one count of conspiracy to kidnap a minor victim. The jury further found that the minor victim’s death resulted from the kidnapping. According to court documents, on October 12, 2019, Birmingham Police Department responded to a report that a three-year-old girl was missing near the Tom Brown Village Housing Development in Birmingham, Alabama. Stallworth and Brown traveled in a Toyota Sequoia to the Tom Brown Village Housing Development on that day and kidnapped 3-year-old Kamille “Cupcake” McKinney. Her body was found on October 22, 2019. “There is no greater responsibility for federal law enforcement than to investigate and prosecute those who commit senseless and horrendous acts of violence against young children.” U.S. Attorney Escalona said. “I want to personally thank the dozens of law enforcement members and community volunteers who assisted in both big and small ways in the investigation and bringing justice to the victim and her family.” "While today’s sentencing can’t take away the pain or fill the void of loss for Kamille’s family, I sincerely hope there is some comfort in knowing those who committed this heinous crime have been brought to justice,” SAC Peeples said. “The FBI and its’ law enforcement partners are committed to bringing to justice those who seek to prey on our children, the most vulnerable members of our society”. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Birmingham Police Department investigated the case, with assistance from the United States Marshals Service. Chief of the Criminal Division Lloyd C. Peeples and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Blake Milner and Brittany Byrd prosecuted the case.


title: Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 16 Years in Federal Prison for Illegal Gun Possession After Shooting of his Wife

component: USAO - Indiana, Southern

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS- Michael Ryan Mack, 41, of Indianapolis was sentenced to 16 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegally possessing a firearm. According to court documents, on November 13, 2020, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) officers were dispatched to an Indianapolis residence on reports of a person shot. When officers arrived, they learned that Michael Mack’s wife had been shot in the right arm during an altercation with Mack. During a search of the residence, officers located a 9mm handgun with a spent shell casing still inside the barrel, and 11 live rounds in the magazine. Mack was located later that day at a hotel in Greenwood, Indiana, where officers found another 9mm handgun in the room. Mack is prohibited from possessing a firearm and is considered an armed career criminal under federal law due to his previous felony convictions including Armed Robbery, Dealing in a Controlled Substance, and three convictions for Burglary. Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Chief Randal Taylor, and Daryl S. McCormick, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Columbus Field Division made the announcement. “We have prioritized federal prosecution of armed domestic abusers because of the extreme danger they pose to those in their homes and the public at large,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “The victim in this case will be protected from her abuser for many years, because of the excellent work of IMPD, the ATF, and our federal prosecutor. This sentence should serve as a warning anyone who is involved in domestic violence and illegally armed: get rid of the guns or risk a long term in federal prison.” The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives investigated this case, with valuable assistance provided by IMPD. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Court Judge Sarah Evans Barker. Judge Barker also ordered that Mack be supervised by the U.S. Probation Office for 3 years following his release from federal prison. U.S. Attorney Myers thanked Assistant United States Attorney Pamela S. Domash, who prosecuted this case. This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. This case was brought as part of the LEATH Initiative (Law Enforcement Action to Halt Domestic Violence), named in honor of Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) Officer Breann Leath, who was killed in the line of duty while responding to a domestic disturbance call. A partnership among the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), the IMPD, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Indiana, the LEATH Initiative focuses federal, state, and local law enforcement resources on domestic violence offenders who illegally possess firearms. ###


title: Four Persons Charged with Drug Offenses

component: USAO - South Dakota

body_text: PIERRE - United States Attorney Alison J. Ramsdell announced that a federal grand jury has indicted three individuals from North Dakota and an individual from Washington, DC for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance and Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance. Abdul Vann, age 47, from Mandan, ND; Samuel Vann, age 21, from Washington, DC; Monica Yellow Bird, age 40, from Fort Yates, ND; and Kerstyn Lanz, age 30, from West Fargo, ND, were indicted in February of 2023. Samuel Vann appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on February 27, 2023 and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment. Abdul Vann, Monica Yellow Bird, and Kerstyn Lanz all appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Mark A. Moreno on March 1, 2023, and pleaded not guilty to the Indictment. The maximum penalty upon conviction is up to life in federal prison and/or a $20,000,000 fine, lifetime of supervised release, and up to $200 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund. Restitution may also be ordered. The Indictment alleges that beginning at an unknown time and continuing until February 14, 2023, in Lyman County, all four defendants knowingly and intentionally distributed and possessed with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine, which is a Schedule II controlled substance. The charges are merely accusations and Abdul Vann, Samuel Vann, Yellow Bird, and Lanz are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty. The investigation is being conducted by the South Dakota Highway Patrol, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Division of Drug Enforcement, and the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan N. Dilges is prosecuting the case. All four Defendants were remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending trial, which has been set for May 9, 2023.


title: Army Reservist Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Government Funds

component: USAO - Louisiana, Eastern

body_text: NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that Army reservist CHANTELLE DAVIS has pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, having stolen $8,399.65 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for the performance of military funeral honors ceremonies that never happened. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 authorizes military funeral honors for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans. At a family’s request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honors, including the folding and presenting of the United States flag and the playing of “Taps.” By pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, DAVIS faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. DAVIS has repaid the Department of the Army for the $8,399.65 in stolen funds. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command, including Special Agents Dustin Stevens, John Hiniker, Jeffrey Riedeman, and Denny Richter. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Indianapolis Man Sentenced to over 12 Years in Federal Prison for Sharing Child Sexual Abuse Material Via Snapchat While on Bond for Similar Charges

body_text: INDIANAPOLIS: Brad Bevington, 51, of Indianapolis was sentenced to 12.5 years in federal prison for distributing child sexual abuse material. According to court documents, on April 7, 2021, Bevington was arrested for child exploitation in Marion County, Indiana in a case related to uploading files depicting children engaged in sexually explicit conduct to Twitter and Dropbox. Bevington was released on a $100,000 surety bond in April 2021. On September 3, 2021, the Indianapolis Metropolitan Police Department (IMPD) received a CyberTip, submitted by Snapchat, reporting that an account later proved to be used by Bevington had uploaded videos depicting adults engaging in sexual intercourse with prepubescent boys. Further investigation revealed that Bevington used Snapchat to send sexually explicit videos involving children to other Snapchat users while he was on bond for the Marion County offenses. Zachary A. Myers, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana, Jeffrey R. Adams, Special Agent in Charge of the USSS Indianapolis Field Office, and Chief Randal Taylor of IMPD made the announcement. “Those who sexually exploit children using online platforms are dangerous predators,” said Zachary A. Myers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Indiana. “These criminals should pay great attention to the sentence imposed today. Our law enforcement partners will identify you and make our children safer by sending you to federal prison.” The U.S Secret Service and IMPD investigated the case. The sentence was imposed by U.S. District Jude James R. Sweeney. As part of the sentence, Judge Sweeney ordered Bevington to pay $11,000 in restitution to the child victims, as well as $250 to the Amy, Vicki and Andy Act Fund. Bevington must also register as sex offender wherever he lives, works, or goes to school, as required by law. U.S. Attorney Myers thank Assistant United States Attorney Kristina M. Korobov, who prosecuted this case. This investigation was conducted by the Indiana Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force, a partnership of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies led by the Indiana State Police. The Task Force is dedicated to investigating and prosecuting crimes involving the technology-facilitated sexual exploitation of children and the trafficking of child sexual abuse material. Each year, Indiana ICAC investigators evaluate thousands of tips, investigate hundreds of cases, and rescue dozens of children from ongoing sexual abuse. In fiscal year 2019, the most recent year for which data is available, the Southern District of Indiana was second out of the 94 federal districts in the country for the number of child sexual exploitation cases prosecuted. 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 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 ###


body_text: NEW ORLEANS – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that on March 2, 2023 former United States Army reservist LYNEA SANDERS has pled guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, having stolen $21,780.18 from the United States Department of the Army by claiming reimbursement for the performance of military funeral honors ceremonies that never happened. The National Defense Authorization Act of 2000 authorizes military funeral honors for active-duty soldiers, retirees, and veterans. At a family’s request, eligible persons can receive military funeral honors, including the folding and presenting of the United States flag and the playing of “Taps.” By pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit theft of government funds, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371, SANDERS faces a maximum penalty of five (5) years imprisonment, followed by up to three (3) years of supervised release, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and a mandatory $100 special assessment fee. SANDERS has repaid the Department of the Army for the $21,780.18 in stolen funds. U.S. Attorney Evans praised the work of the United States Army Criminal Investigation Command, including Special Agents Dustin Stevens, John Hiniker, Jeffrey Riedeman, and Denny Richter. Assistant United States Attorney Andre J. Lagarde of the Public Integrity Unit is in charge of the prosecution.


title: Wichita Falls Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to 17 ½ Years Following Fatal Overdose

body_text: A Wichita Falls drug dealer who sold fentanyl to 27-year-old who suffered a fatal overdose was sentenced today to more than 17 years in federal prison, announced U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Leigha Simonton. Lionel DeSaun Henderson, 33, and his former girlfriend, Shameka Tanee Mason, 29, were first charged in July. Mr. Henderson pleaded guilty in November 2022 to possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance and was sentenced Friday by U.S. District Judge Reed O’Connor to 210 months in federal prison. Ms. Mason pleaded guilty in August 2022 to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance and was sentenced in December to 24 months in federal prison. In court documents, the pair admitted they knowingly sold counterfeit oxycodone pills laced with fentanyl to an individual who later sold them to his 27-year-old cousin, J.D.K. J.D.K. split the drugs with his coworker. On June 12, 2020, both J.D.K. and his coworker overdosed; the coworker received medical attention and recovered, but J.D.K. died of drug toxicity. During an interview at a Denton hospital, the coworker told investigators that he and J.D.K. split what appeared to be a 30mg oxycodone tablet. He said some of the remaining pills were stored at J.DK.’s home in Graham, Oklahoma. Agents searched the bedroom and recovered one round blue tablet marked M/30, three green rectangle tablets marked S/90/3, and one pink capsule with illegible markings. The blue M/30 – which appeared identical to brand name oxycodone – instead tested positive for butyryl fentanyl. Agents then cultivated a confidential source who identified Lionel Henderson as the source of the blue M/30s. He went through Mr. Henderson’s girlfriend, Shameka Mason, to arrange a meeting with an undercover agent at Ms. Mason’s residence in Wichita Falls. On June 25, agents met with Mr. Henderson and Ms. Mason and purchased five M/30 tablets, which later tested positive for fentanyl and acetaminophen. They then executed a search warrant of Mr. Henderson’s home, where they recovered 497 blue m/30s that later tested positive for fentanyl and acetaminophen, 1,035 multicolored tablets that later tested positive for ecstasy, and multiple firearms, including one that was stolen. A month later, agents interviewed Ms. Mason, who admitted that she and Mr. Henderson had been dealing illicit substances in December 2018. They began with alprazolam, or “bars,” then escalated to ecstasy, and later to M/30s, which she called “percs,” in December 2019. She claimed she did not know where Mr. Henderson obtained the pills, but admitted they sold the pills for $25 apiece. In plea papers, Mr. Henderson admitted that he had been selling fentanyl-laced counterfeit pills since March 2020. The Drug Enforcement Administration’s Dallas Field Division, the Carter County Sheriff’s Office, the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation, and the Oklahoma City Medical Examiner’s Office conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney P.J. Meitl is prosecuting the case.


title: Colorado Springs Man Convicted of Drug Trafficking

component: USAO - Colorado

body_text: DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces a federal jury found Thomas O’Hara II, age 56, of Colorado Springs, guilty of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it. According to facts presented at trial, on June 1, 2021, the Denver Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Rocky Mountain Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and the Colorado Springs Police Department executed several search warrants in the Colorado Springs area. At O’Hara’s residence, investigators recovered one-and-a-half pounds of methamphetamine, one pound of heroin, approximately 800 fentanyl pills, two loaded handguns, and drug trafficking paraphernalia. At O’Hara’s wife’s apartment, investigators found and seized $112,027 in cash and additional drug trafficking paraphernalia. Finally, at a third residence associated with O’Hara, investigators located six-and-a-half pounds of methamphetamine. Judge William J. Martinez presided over the 6-day trial, which ended on March 1, 2023. The defendant will be sentenced on October 25, 2023. Each count of which the defendant was convicted carries a sentence of no less than 10 years and up to life in prison. The jury found the defendant not guilty of possessing heroin and fentanyl with the intent to distribute them. The investigation was conducted by the FBI Denver Division, DEA Rocky Mountain Division, and the Colorado Springs Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Peter McNeilly and Alexander Duncan. This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. CASE NUMBER: 21-cr-190-WJM-1


title: U.S. Attorney Peter D. Leary Announces Implementation of New Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy

component: USAO - Georgia, Middle

body_text: MACON, Ga . – United States Attorney Peter D. Leary announced that the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Georgia has implemented the new United States Attorney’s Offices’ Voluntary Self-Disclosure Policy released this week. The policy, which is effective immediately, details the circumstances under which a company will be considered to have made a voluntary self-disclosure (VSD) of misconduct to a United States Attorney’s Office (USAO), and provides transparency and predictability to companies and the defense bar concerning the concrete benefits and potential outcomes in cases where companies voluntarily self-disclose misconduct, fully cooperate and timely and appropriately remediate. The goal of the policy is to standardize how VSDs are defined and credited by USAOs nationwide, and to incentivize companies to maintain effective compliance programs capable of identifying misconduct, to expeditiously and voluntarily disclose and remediate misconduct, and to cooperate fully with the government in corporate criminal investigations. The policy was developed pursuant to the Deputy Attorney General’s September 15, 2022, memorandum, “Further Revisions to Corporate Criminal Enforcement Policies Following Discussions with Corporate Crime Advisory Group” (Monaco Memo), which directed each Department of Justice (DOJ) component that prosecutes corporate crime to review its policies on corporate voluntary self-disclosure and, if there was no formal written policy to incentivize self-disclosure, draft and publicly share such a policy. Under the new VSD policy, a company is considered to have made a VSD if it becomes aware of misconduct by employees or agents before that misconduct is publicly reported or otherwise known to the DOJ, and discloses all relevant facts known to the company about the misconduct to a USAO in a timely fashion prior to an imminent threat of disclosure or government investigation. A company that voluntarily self-discloses as defined in the policy and fully meets the other requirements of the policy, by—in the absence of any aggravating factor—fully cooperating and timely and appropriately remediating the criminal conduct (including agreeing to pay all disgorgement, forfeiture, and restitution resulting from the misconduct), will receive significant benefits, including that the USAO will not seek a guilty plea; may choose not to impose any criminal penalty, and in any event will not impose a criminal penalty that is greater than 50% below the low end of the United States Sentencing Guidelines (USSG) fine range; and will not seek the imposition of an independent compliance monitor if the company demonstrates that it has implemented and tested an effective compliance program. The policy identifies three aggravating factors that may warrant a USAO seeking a guilty plea even if the other requirements of the VSD policy are met: (1) if the misconduct poses a grave threat to national security, public health, or the environment; (2) if the misconduct is deeply pervasive throughout the company; or (3) if the misconduct involved current executive management of the company. The presence of an aggravating factor does not necessarily mean that a guilty plea will be required; instead, the USAO will assess the relevant facts and circumstances to determine the appropriate resolution. If a guilty plea is ultimately required, the company will still receive the other benefits under the VSD policy, including that the USAO will recommend a criminal penalty of at least a 50% and up to a 75% reduction off the low end of the USSG fine range, and that the USAO will not require the appointment of a monitor if the company has implemented and tested an effective compliance program. In cases where a company is being jointly prosecuted by a USAO and another DOJ component, or where the misconduct reported by the company falls within the scope of conduct covered by VSD policies administered by other DOJ components, the USAO will coordinate with, or, if necessary, obtain approval from, the DOJ component responsible for the VSD policy specific to the reported misconduct when considering a potential resolution. Consistent with relevant provisions of the Justice Manual and as allowable under alternate VSD policies, the USAO may choose to apply any provision of an alternate VSD policy in addition to, or in place of, any provision of its policy. The Attorney General’s Advisory Committee (AGAC), under the leadership of United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York Damian Williams, requested that the White Collar Fraud Subcommittee of the AGAC, under the leadership of United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York Breon Peace, develop policies in response to the Deputy AG’s memo. The policy announced today was prepared by a Corporate Criminal Enforcement Policy Working Group comprised of U.S. Attorneys from geographically diverse districts, including U.S. Attorney Peace, as well as U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia Jessica Aber, U.S. Attorney for the District of Connecticut Vanessa Avery, U.S. Attorney for the District of Hawaii Clare Connors, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of California Stephanie Hinds, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia Christopher Kavanaugh, and U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey Philip Sellinger. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Riedel, White Collar Crimes Coordinator for the Executive Office for U.S. Attorneys, also participated in the development of the policy.


title: Inchelium Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drinking and Driving Resulting in Spokane Teenager’s Death

component: USAO - Washington, Eastern

body_text: Spokane, Washington – Senior U.S. District Court Judge Rosanna Malouf Peterson sentenced Emmalena Ann Michel, age 35, of Inchelium, Washington, to 60 months in federal prison for Involuntary Manslaughter and Assault Resulting in Serious Bodily Injury stemming from a drinking and driving incident that occurred in October 2021 on the Colville Reservation. Judge Peterson also imposed 3 years of federal supervised release. Michel pled guilty to both offenses earlier this year. According to court documents and proceedings, on October 23, 2021, officers with the Colville Tribal Police Department responded to a traffic collision wherein two minors had been struck by a drunk driver in a Tundra truck driven by Emmalena Ann Michel. The first victim was a 13-year-old female, and the second victim was a 15-year-old male. The female child was transported by helicopter to Sacred Heart Medical Center where her considerable injuries were treated. The male victim was pronounced deceased at the scene. Michel struck another vehicle after hitting the teenagers spinning the second vehicle 180 degrees. Michel then exited the truck and fled on foot. A 10-year old witness saw Defendant exit the Tundra and say, “I’m sorry,” before running from the scene. The 10-year old noted Defendant smelled of alcohol, another witness stated he was driving behind the Tundra, but had fallen back from the Tundra because the driver seemed to be drunk and was driving down the middle turn lane. Washington State Patrol prepared a collision synopsis indicating the Tundra was traveling at a rate of speed over 46 miles per hour (in a 25 mile per hour zone), when Michel struck the children. The Tundra was searched and found to have alcohol containers inside. Later that same evening, Michel turned herself into law enforcement. She provided a breath sample that showed her blood alcohol content to be above the legal limit. At sentencing, the female victim noted her continued pain. She also described a metal rod in her right femur bone and a metal plate in her right forearm. But worst of all, she lost her best friend, the male child involved in the accident. The deceased child’s mother stated losing her son “is beyond anything I have ever endured. The pain has not subsided, and it never will.” In pronouncing today’s sentence, Senior Judge Peterson emphasized the seriousness of the offense and the impact on the Colville Community, stating, “This is a very tragic situation. The offense is significant, and the impact is significant.” Speaking directly to Ms. Michel, Senior Judge Peterson added, “Whether or not you intended this damage, you did this. You have been stopped by law enforcement repeatedly for drinking and driving. While you cannot change what happened, you can change yourself.” While recognizing Ms. Michel’s remorse for what she had done, Senior Judge Peterson, emphasized, “If you cannot control the alcohol, you should never drive again.” At sentencing, Michel apologized to the victims noting, ““I want everyone to know how bad I feel for taking a life. My deepest sympathy goes out to everyone involved.” She continued, “I never should have been behind the wheel at that time . . . I have shame and guilt that will remain with me forever.” “No sentence can heal the pain the family will continue to feel from the tragic loss of this 15 year old boy,” U.S. Attorney Vanessa R. Waldref stated. “However, it is important that our whole community see such reckless actions come with very serious consequences, and we will continue to hold accountable those who engage in criminally reckless violence in our community.” “It’s sad how many people’s lives were affected by Ms. Michel’s decision to drive impaired that day” said Richard A. Collodi, Special Agent in Charge of FBI’s Seattle field office. “The actions of Ms. Michel were particularly deplorable and tragically ended the life of one child and severely affected the life of another. Rest assured the FBI is committed to holding offenders like Ms. Michel accountable for their actions.” The case was investigated by the Colville Tribal Police Department, Washington State Patrol, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Retired Assistant United States Attorney Joseph H. Harrington indicted the case. Assistant United States Attorney Alison L. Gregoire, who also serves as the Criminal Chief for the Eastern District of Washington, represented the United States at today’s sentencing. 2:22CR00049-RMP-1


title: Former Louisiana Woman Pled Guilty To Preparing Over 110 Fraudulent PPP Loans Totaling Over $1.1 Million Dollars

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – United States Attorney Duane A. Evans announced today that SHARNAE EVERY (“ EVERY ”), age 27, of Houston, Texas, pled guilty on March 2, 2023 to Conspiracy to Commit Mail Fraud in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1349. The case against EVERY began as a a referral from the COVID-19 Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (“PRAC”) regarding possible fraudulent Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans . Investigators determined there were at least 110 PPP sole proprietor loan applications in and around the Thibodeaux, Louisiana area that all contained the same invoices and federal tax forms (“Schedule C”) with the same business name and amounts. According to documents filed in federal court, EVERY created a fictitious business called “Natural Hair Afro, LLC, Houma, LA 70360” and used this fictitious business name on nearly all of the fraudulent PPP loan applications. EVERY advertised under various aliases on Facebook to recruit individuals to obtain money from the PPP program. EVERY prepared and submitted false and fraudulent PPP sole proprietor loan applications via various online portals including, but not limited, to Blueacorn. EVERY created all of the false and fraudulent invoices, bank statements, and Schedule Cs. EVERY falsely certified that the applications and the information provided in the supporting documents were true and accurate when she electronically submitted the fraudulent PPP loan applications. EVERY charged the individuals she recruited to prepare and submit the fraudulent PPP application anywhere from $45.00 to $120.00 . EVERY primarily used Cash App to receive the initial payments. EVERY then charged approximately $3,500.00 once the loans were funded. EVERY received these funds into her Current account, her Cash App account, or into her boyfriend’s Current account. EVERY faces a maximum penalty of twenty (20) years imprisonment and/or a fine of $250,000.00 or twice the gross gain to the defendant or twice the gross loss to any person, followed by a term of supervised release for up to three (3) years, and a $100.00 mandatory special assessment fee. Sentencing in this matter is scheduled for June 8, 2023 before Chief United States District Judge Carl J. Barbier. On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by, among other methods, augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the Department’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General, is an active member of the PRAC Fraud Task Force. For more information on the Department of Justice’s response to the pandemic, please visit https://www.justice.gov/coronavirus . Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form . This case was investigated by an agent assigned to the Pandemic Response Accountability Committee (PRAC) Fraud Task Force. The PRAC was established to serve the American public by promoting transparency and facilitating coordinated oversight of the federal government’s COVID-19 pandemic response. The PRAC’s 21 member Inspectors General identify major risks that cross program and agency boundaries to detect fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement in the more than $5 trillion in COVID-19 spending. The PRAC Fraud Task Force brings together agents from 15 Inspectors General to investigate fraud involving a variety of programs, including the Paycheck Protection Program. The United States Attorney’s Office would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of the Inspector General; United States Department of Labor, Office of the Inspector General; United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations; and the United States Secret Service’s Cyber Fraud Task Force, consisting of the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office, Lafourche Parish Sheriff’s Office, Thibodeaux Police Department, and the Louisiana Bureau of Investigation with this matter. The prosecution of this case is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Brian M. Klebba, Chief of the Financial Crimes Unit, and Assistant United States Attorney Edward Rivera, COVID-19 Fraud Coordinator. * * *


title: Three Women Indicted for Alleged Scheme that Used Prison  Inmates’ Identities to Fraudulently Obtain Federal Student Loans

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – Three women were arrested this week on a federal grand jury indictment alleging they ran a federal student aid fraud scheme that used the identities of California prison inmates and other victims to fraudulently enroll in an Orange County-based community college and obtain federal student loans totaling nearly $1 million, the Justice Department announced today. The six-count indictment charges the following defendants with one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud affecting a financial institution and bank fraud: Nyisha Ramsey, 43, of Lancaster; Dionne Ramsey, 36, of Las Vegas, who is Nyisha Ramsey’s sister; and Sharyn Barney, 62, of Lancaster, who is Nyisha Ramsey’s mother-in-law. Dionne Ramsey faces four additional counts of wire fraud affecting a financial institution. Dionne Ramsey and Barney also have been charged with one count of bank fraud. According to the indictment returned in December 2022 and unsealed this week, from January 2012 to August 2017, the defendants allegedly obtained personally identifying information, including names and Social Security numbers, of state prison inmates and other victims, and used this information to fraudulently enroll in community colleges. The defendants allegedly then posed as the straw students to apply for federal student aid using the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and directed those funds to bank accounts they controlled. Those funds, according to the indictment, were used for personal expenses and were not used for permitted educational costs at a community college in Orange County as they were supposed to be. As a result of their alleged scheme, the defendants fraudulently caused the United States Treasury to disburse approximately $980,000 in FSA funds on behalf of straw students. The United States Department of Education oversees the administration of Title IV Federal Student Assistance. This includes the administration of Direct Loan Programs for low-interest loans to eligible students to help cover the cost of higher education, and the Pell Grant Program to assist eligible needy students in meeting the costs of post-secondary education. According to federal regulations, federal student-loan funds can only be used to pay the cost of attending an institution of higher education. Incarcerated individuals are not eligible to receive such funds. All three defendants were arrested this week and were ordered released on bond. Nyisha Ramsey and Barney were arraigned and have pleaded not guilty to the charges against them. An April 25 trial date has been scheduled for them. Dionne Ramsey, who made her initial court appearance on Thursday in the District of Nevada, is expected to be arraigned in Los Angeles in the coming weeks. An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted of all charges, each defendant would face a statutory maximum sentence of 30 years in federal prison for each count. The United States Department of Education and Department of Housing and Urban Development investigated the matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel H. Weiner of the General Crimes Section and Maxwell K. Coll of the Asset Forfeiture and Recovery Section are prosecuting this case.


title: Terrebonne Parish Man Pleads Guilty to Violations of the  Controlled Substances Act

body_text: NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that yesterday, TATUM DARDAR , 26, from Terrebonne Parish, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 846, 841(a)(1), and 841(b)(1)(C) and possession with the intent to distribute a quantity of methamphetamine, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). DARDAR took part in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine throughout Terrebonne Parish and the surrounding areas for over a year. At sentencing and for each charge, DARDAR faces up to a maximum term of twenty (20) years imprisonment, a maximum fine of up to $1,000,000.00, at least four (4) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee. This case was investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Terrebonne Parish Sheriff’s Office, the Louisiana State Police, and the Houma Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Lynn E. Schiffman of the Narcotics Unit.


title: Man Who Allegedly Shot Two Jewish Victims Leaving Los Angeles Synagogues Indicted for Multiple Hate Crime and Firearms Offenses

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A federal grand jury today returned a four-count indictment charging a former Riverside resident with hate crime and firearms offenses for allegedly shooting two Jewish men after they left synagogues in the Pico-Robertson area of Los Angeles last month. Jaime Tran, 28, is charged with two hate crime counts for willfully causing bodily injury and attempting to kill his victims. The grand jury further charged Tran with two counts of discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. Tran has been in federal custody since his February 17 arrest on a criminal complaint in this case. His arraignment is scheduled for March 9 in United States District Court in downtown Los Angeles. According to the indictment, Tran developed and espoused antisemitic beliefs and made violent threats toward Jewish people. For example, in 2018, Tran left dental school after making hate-filled statements about other students whom he perceived to be Jewish, the indictment states. From August 2022 to December 2022, Tran’s antisemitic statements escalated and used increasingly violent language, including against a former classmate whom he repeatedly called and texted with messages such as “I want you dead, Jew. Someone is going to kill you, Jew,” and “Burn in an oven chamber,” the indictment alleges. In November 2022, Tran allegedly emailed two dozen former classmates a flyer containing antisemitic propaganda, including the statement, “EVERY SINGLE ASPECT OF THE COVID AGENDA IS JEWISH.” Tran allegedly acquired at least two firearms before the attacks and performed internet searches for “kosher markets” to learn areas where Jewish people congregate. At approximately 9:45 a.m. on February 15, 2023, Tran allegedly drove to the Pico-Robertson neighborhood of Los Angeles, located an individual identified in the indictment as “Victim A,” who was wearing a black jacket and yarmulke, and had just left religious services at a synagogue. Tran allegedly shot Victim A in the back at close range, intending to kill him, but Victim A, though wounded, survived. The following morning, Tran returned to the Pico-Robertson area, intending to kill another Jewish person, according to the indictment. At approximately 8 a.m., Tran allegedly approached an individual wearing a dark-colored jacket and yarmulke and who is identified in the indictment as “Victim B.” Tran, intending to kill Victim B, allegedly shot and wounded the victim, who survived the attack. An indictment contains allegations that a defendant has committed a crime. Every defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted of all charges, Tran would face a statutory maximum sentence of life in federal prison for each hate crime count, and a maximum of life and mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years for each firearms count. The FBI and the Los Angeles Police Department are investigating this matter. The Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the Cathedral City Police Department and the Fountain Valley Police Department provided substantial assistance. Assistant United States Attorneys Kathrynne Seiden and Maria Jhai of the Terrorism and Export Crimes Section and Frances Lewis of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section are prosecuting this case.


title: Three Individuals Plead Guilty to Laundering Money from Massage Parlor Prostitution

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – A Norfolk woman pleaded guilty today to conspiracy to engage in money laundering. Two Norfolk defendants pleaded guilty last week to the same charges. According to court documents, Si Liu, 36, and her codefendants, Yang Gao, 33, and Ye Wang, 32, conspired to move and conceal proceeds obtained through prostitution. During the conspiracy, Gao, Wang and Liu worked as operators or managers of illicit, unregistered massage parlors located in Virginia Beach and Williamsburg, which derived revenues from the prostitution of female employees for money. Women were recruited online to work for the defendants. Female employees within the massage parlors performed sex acts for customers in exchange for cash payments. Gao managed the day-to-day operations of the parlors, including collecting money obtained via commercial sex. Gao also provided transportation to women engaged in commercial sex and maintained the facilities, unlicensed massage parlors, utilized for commercial sex. Wang assisted Gao in the operation of the illicit commercial sex business. Liu helped facilitate the exploitation of women engaged in commercial sex, collected proceeds from the illegal activity, managed the web-based advertising of the illicit massage parlors, and encouraged women to perform sex acts by providing condoms and offering financial incentives. Gao, Wang, and Liu split the prostitution proceeds with the women engaged in prostitution. Gao, Wang and Liu traveled to the massage parlors located in Virginia Beach and Williamsburg to collect prostitution proceeds, and then deposited a percentage of profits into various bank accounts. Money was then transferred to other members of the larger enterprise through cash deliveries and via mobile banking. Pursuant to the plea agreements the defendants agreed to forfeit four vehicles, over $130,000 in US Currency, numerous items of jewelry, a gold bar; as well as three personal residences. Gao and Wang previously pleaded guilty to conspiracy to engage in money laundering. Gao and Wang are scheduled to be sentenced on August 4. Liu is scheduled to be sentenced on August 11. Each defendant faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia; Derek W. Gordon, Acting Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Washington, D.C.; Paul Neudigate, Chief of Virginia Beach Police; and Colonel Gary T. Settle, Superintendent of Virginia State Police, made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Arenda Wright Allen accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Megan Montoya and Matthew Heck are prosecuting the case. This case was investigated by the Hampton Roads Human Trafficking Task Force, a collaboration between federal, state and local law enforcement and prosecutors, as well as nongovernmental organizations, working together to combat human trafficking in the Hampton Roads, Virginia region. 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. 2:22-cr-108.


title: Essex County Man Charged with Stealing Federal Benefits Meant for Missing Girlfriend’s Disabled Son

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: NEWARK, N.J. – An Essex County, New Jersey, man was charged with embezzling federal benefits meant for the disabled child of his former girlfriend shortly after she went missing, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced. Asmar Earp, 37, of Newark, is charged by indictment with two counts of wire fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft. He appeared today before U.S. Magistrate Judge James B. Clark III and was detained. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Earp was in a romantic relationship and shared a house with a woman in Newark. Through a program administered by the Social Security Administration, the woman received monthly payments on behalf of her disabled minor son, who was not capable of managing these benefits on his own. On Dec. 24, 2017, the woman went missing and her whereabouts remain unknown. Six days after her disappearance, Earp fraudulently gained control of the victim’s benefits by changing the PIN code on the debit card used to access those funds. In March and April 2018, Earp also fraudulently used the woman’s name, date of birth, and Social Security number to receive a replacement debit card to continue accessing and using the victim’s benefits. From December 2017 through February 2020, Earp and others acting at his direction repeatedly and fraudulently took the money intended to help the victim. Each count of wire fraud is punishable by a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum $250,000 fine. Each count of aggravated identity theft is punishable by a sentence of two years in prison, at least one of which must be served consecutive to any other term imposed, and a maximum of $250,000. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents of the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General, Boston New York Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Sharon MacDermott, and the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Acting Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II, with the investigation leading to the charges. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica R. Ecker of the General Crimes Unit in Newark. The charges and allegations contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. earp.indictment.pdf


title: Minneapolis Felon Charged in Federal Complaint for Violent Carjacking

component: USAO - Minnesota

body_text: MINNEAPOLIS – A Minneapolis man has been charged in a criminal complaint for an armed carjacking spree and illegal possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger. “Let this be a lesson that we will not tolerate violent felons that prey on our community, especially those who endanger the police officers who courageously place their lives on the line in the protection of others,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Brian O’Hara. “I am thankful for the dozens of officers from multiple agencies who responded to swiftly bring this person to justice before he could cause any more harm in our community.” United States Attorney Luger stated, “This is a snapshot of the violent acts we are seeing in the Twin Cities on a regular basis. The full force of the U.S. Attorney’s Office is focused on reducing the levels of violent crime and we will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to bring swift and certain accountability to violent criminals.” “Callously putting multiple lives at risk while brandishing firearms, including at a responding law enforcement officer, it is completely unacceptable,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge William McCrary, of the St. Paul Field Division. “I appreciate the swift and decisive action of the brave agents and law enforcement officers who worked tirelessly to take this man into custody and prevent further danger to the public.” According to court documents, on January 30, 2023, in Little Canada, a Ramsey County Sheriff’s Deputy attempted to initiate a traffic stop on a Ford F150, which was later revealed to be stolen. The driver, Donovan Goodman, 33, fled the deputy, driving in the wrong lanes of traffic, above posted speed limits, and evading stop sticks. Law enforcement officers ultimately disabled the vehicle using a PIT maneuver. The driver of the vehicle—believed to be Goodman—fled the vehicle and jumped over a barrier separating the east and west lanes on Interstate 694. He approached an uninvolved vehicle, which had stopped in the westbound lanes of Interstate 694, pointed a firearm at the vehicle and yelled, “Get the [expletive] out of the car.” He then fled in the vehicle. The carjacked vehicle―which was subsequently recovered―had an installed dash camera that captured the entire incident. On February 25, 2023, at approximately 4:23 a.m., officers with the Minneapolis Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop of a stolen vehicle parked in a parking lot. Goodman and another male, who were standing near the vehicle, immediately fled on foot and officers pursued. One officer deployed a taser to subdue Goodman, who initially fell to the ground, rolled over and then pointed a handgun with a red laser sight in the direction of the officer. The officer immediately took cover and Goodman escaped on foot. Shortly thereafter, a carjacking victim flagged down responding law enforcement officers and reported that he was an Uber driver and had just picked up two passengers in downtown Minneapolis when a man approached the vehicle and offered the occupants $100 to let him join the Uber ride. One of the occupants agreed and opened the door. Once inside the vehicle, the man (later identified as Goodman) pulled out a firearm with a red laser and pointed it at the back of the driver’s head and ordered everyone out of the vehicle. The driver and the two occupants complied, and Goodman fled in the vehicle. Later that day, after obtaining a search warrant for Goodman’s cell phone, law enforcement tracked Goodman to a residence in St. Paul. The St. Paul Police Department’s SWAT team executed a search warrant at the residence and, after law enforcement provided numerous loud commands for over an hour, Goodman exited the residence and was taken into custody. Because Goodman has prior felony convictions, including burglary, assault, and drug sales, he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time. The complaint charges Goodman with possession of a firearm as a felon and carjacking. Goodman made his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court before Magistrate Judge Dulce J. Foster. Goodman was ordered to remain in detention pending further court proceedings. This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the St. Paul Police Department, the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan L. Sing is prosecuting the case. A complaint is merely an allegation and the defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Seven indicted in Seattle in connection with coast-to-coast drug trafficking conspiracy

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – Seven people have been indicted in the Western District of Washington in an investigation that began with a drug trafficking ring in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. Over the past 36 hours, law enforcement has taken all of the defendants into custody, with three arrested in Arizona and four arrested in Seattle. In addition, two people named in indictments in Pittsburgh were arrested in the Seattle area. Those arrested in Seattle are being detained at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac, Washington pending future hearings. “This investigation shows how drug trafficking rings interact across the country – drugs coming into Arizona are then transferred to distributors as geographically distinct as Seattle and Pittsburgh,” said U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. “Prosecutors and law enforcement here have worked cooperatively to arrest and prosecute the key players responsible for hundreds of thousands of potentially deadly doses.” “Cartel activity of this nature is of particular concern to HSI, and we continue to prioritize investigations into individuals and organizations that illicitly introduce deadly fentanyl and firearms into our communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “This national operation has brought 90 individuals to justice, taken a large amount of guns off of our streets, and serves as a message to other fentanyl trafficking organizations that we will not stop; for the safety and security of the communities that we serve, we can’t stop as innocent lives are at risk.” According to records filed in the case, a key member of the drug conspiracy was arrested in Seattle on January 11, 2023. Bryce Hill is charged in the Western District of Pennsylvania with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine. The Pittsburgh investigation began in 2018 and became a wiretap investigation in the spring of 2022. The investigation identified Bryce aka “Benji” Hill as a key distributor of drugs in the Seattle area. Hill traveled, or had his associates travel, between Arizona and Seattle, bringing in drugs and taking drug proceeds back to conspirators in Phoenix. When investigators served search warrants on residences in Seattle associated with Hill, they seized five firearms – including assault style weapons and those with extended magazines. One firearm had been modified to fire fully automatic. Hill is prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous convictions. At Hill’s apartment in Seattle, where he was arrested, law enforcement seized about 27 kilos of fentanyl pills. The drugs were still in the suitcases they had traveled in from Arizona. Law enforcement also seized more than $387,000 in cash. In all, some 60 people have been charged in the Western District of Pennsylvania. Over the past ten months, investigators in the Pennsylvania-based case have seized more than 673 pounds of fentanyl-laced fake prescription pills, over 400 pounds of methamphetamine, and more than 16 pounds each of fentanyl powder and cocaine, over $600,000 in cash, nine vehicles, and 47 firearms. Yesterday alone, in connection with the arrests in the Seattle area, law enforcement seized: Seven additional firearms for a total of 21 associated with this case Approximately $500,000 cash A half kilo of cocaine Smaller amounts of crack cocaine and fentanyl pills The seven people indicted in Seattle allegedly conspired with Bryce ‘Benji’ Hill in the drug distribution scheme. Those indicted include: Cierra Ward, 21, of Kent, Washington David Theodore Carr, 43, of Phoenix, Arizona Jaren Christopher Tran, 43, of Seattle Shaunyae Allen, 37, of Oak Harbor, Washington Jose Cortes 34, of Marysville, Washington Aliana Lyla Khan, 34 of Scottsdale, Arizona Kayla Vigil, 28, of Tempe, Arizona Additionally, two defendants from Western Washington were arrested on an indictment from the Western District of Pennsylvania: Alicia Parks, 25, of Kent, Washington Mohamed Kariye, 34 of Kent, Washington “This organization sold their illicit narcotics throughout the U.S., from the Southwest border to the Pacific Northwest and all the way to the East Coast,” said Jacob D. Galvan, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Seattle Field Division. “Our federal partnerships once again have proven invaluable in defeating these organizations and holding their members accountable. According to DEA labs, 6 out of 10 fake pills contain a potentially lethal dose of fentanyl. With the seizure in one Seattle apartment, our partnerships saved 162,000 lives.” The charges contained in the indictment are only allegations. A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law. This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF . In the Western District of Washington, the investigation was led by Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) with assistance from the FBI, DEA, and ATF. In Pennsylvania the investigation is being led by HSI and the FBI. The case in the Western District of Washington is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Vince Lombardi and Michelle Jensen.


title: Oregon Woman Indicted for Allegedly Trafficking Approximately 19 Pounds of Fentanyl

component: USAO - Utah

body_text: Salt Lake City, Utah – A federal grand jury in Utah returned an indictment March 1, 2023, charging an Oregon woman for possession with the intent to distribute illicit drugs, specifically fentanyl and heroin, and possessing a firearm during a drug trafficking crime. According to court documents, on February 9, 2023, Ruth Mery Argueta, 31, was stopped in a Nissan Frontier Pickup truck by a Utah Highway Patrol trooper for an equipment violation. Upon contact with the vehicle, the trooper detected the smell of burnt marijuana, for which Argueta, the sole occupant in the vehicle, did not have a medical marijuana card for. After being questioned by the trooper, Argueta showed the trooper additional marijuana, and a marijuana grinder. A search of the vehicle was conducted leading to the recovery of approximately 19 pounds of fake blue M30 pills purported to contain fentanyl; over one kilogram of heroin; a loaded firearm; approximately one ounce of raw marijuana; rolling papers; over $4,000; and a burnt marijuana joint. Agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration took custody of the evidence and preliminary test results of the drugs were positive for fentanyl and heroin. Argueta is charged with possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute, possession of heroin with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The defendant is scheduled for her initial court appearance March 6, 2023, at 11:45 a.m. before a U.S. Magistrate Judge via Zoom conference. U.S. Attorney Trina A. Higgins for the District of Utah made the announcement. The case is being investigated jointly by the DEA and the Department of Public Safety. Assistant U.S. Attorney, Vernon G. Stejskal, for the District of Utah is prosecuting the case. An indictment is merely an allegation and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.


title: Seattle woman convicted of multiple child sexual abuse offenses

body_text: Seattle – A 39-year-old woman from Seattle was convicted late yesterday of five federal felonies related to the sexual abuse of children, announced U.S. Attorney Nick Brown. Shabnam Dawn Pilisuk was convicted following a four-day jury trial. Pilisuk is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Tana Lin on May 31, 2023. According to records filed in the case, a Seattle Police detective uncovered information about a website that included discussion of incest and child abuse. The investigation revealed that Pilisuk was the founder and operator of the website. The investigation further revealed that Pilisuk had traveled with an 11-year-old and sexually molested the child. The website is no longer functioning. In March 2019, Seattle Police and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) served a judicially authorized search warrant on Pilisuk’s West Seattle Home. They seized her electronic devices. The devices were forensically examined and determined to have images of child sexual abuse. In November 2021, a victim disclosed the sexual abuse that began when the child was 11 years old. The jury convicted Pilisuk of: Aggravated Sexual Abuse of a Minor under 12, punishable by a mandatory minimum 30 years to life in prison; Production of Child Pornography punishable by a mandatory minimum 15 years in prison to 30 years in prison; two counts of Transportation of a Minor with Intent to Engage in Criminal Sexual Activity punishable by a mandatory minimum ten years to life in prison; and Possession of Child Pornography, punishable by up to 20 years in prison. The actual sentence will be determined by U.S. District Judge Tana Lin after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. Pilisuk remains detained at the Federal Detention Center at SeaTac. The case was investigated by the Seattle Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matt Hampton and Special Assistant United States Attorney Laura Harmon. Ms. Harmon is a Senior King County Deputy Prosecutor specially designated to prosecute child exploitation cases in federal court.


title: Last Two Defendants Sentenced To Prison For Large Methamphetamine Distribution Conspiracy

component: USAO - Nevada

body_text: LAS VEGAS – The last two of seven defendants charged in a drug trafficking conspiracy have been sentenced for their roles in distributing large quantities of methamphetamine from California and Mexico to Nevada. Ivan Salazar, a four-time convicted felon, aka “Evil,” (40) and Domingo Montes, a three-time convicted felon, aka “JR,” (36) were sentenced Tuesday by U.S. District Judge Kent J. Dawson to 140 months and 100 months in prison, respectively. According to court documents, in 2019, law enforcement began investigating co-conspirator Luis Arellano and other members of the Pomona Sur Lokotes (PSL) drug trafficking organization. In 2020, Salazar and Montes conspired with others to distribute 946 grams and 204 grams of methamphetamine, respectively, in Las Vegas. Salazar and Montes obtained the methamphetamine from Arellano, the leader of the drug trafficking organization. Salazar and Montes each pleaded guilty in November 2022 to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. The other members of the drug trafficking conspiracy were sentenced earlier. Luis Arellano, aka “Lewis Arellano” and “Laughter,” (31) pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 168 months in prison; Jacqueline Martinez (31) pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 78 months in prison; Amelio Che Medina (45) pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 97 months in prison; Anna Barrios (34) pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 90 months in prison; and Victor Manuel Rodriguez, aka “Smokey” (39) pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 100 months in prison. United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI made the announcement. The FBI’s Safe Streets Gang Task Force and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kimberly Sokolich prosecuted the case. This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF . ###