title: Construction Firm CFO Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for Employment Tax Crime

component: Tax Division

body_text: A Louisiana man was sentenced today to 24 months in prison for willfully failing to report and pay over the IRS employment taxes withheld from employees’ paychecks. According to court documents and statements made in court, Julian Russ of Houma, was the Chief Financial Officer (CFO) of Community Construction Company LLC, a pipeline-maintenance and construction company based in Hazelhurst, Mississippi. As CFO, Russ was responsible for collecting, accounting for and paying over the company’s employment taxes. From at least 2012 to 2018, Russ did not file the company’s quarterly employment tax returns or pay the IRS the taxes withheld from employees’ wages, despite knowing of his legal obligation to do so. In total, Russ caused a tax loss to the IRS of more than $6 million. In addition to the term of imprisonment, U.S. District Court Senior Judge David Bramlette III ordered Russ to serve three years of supervised release and to pay $2,714,280.71 in restitution to the United States. Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Stuart M. Goldberg of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and U.S. Attorney Todd Gee for the Southern District of Mississippi made the announcement. IRS-Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Trial Attorney Curtis J. Weidler of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles W. Kirkham for the Southern District of Mississippi prosecuted the case.


title: South Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Obstructing Justice in the Murder of a Black Transgender Woman

component: Civil Rights Division

body_text: A South Carolina man pleaded guilty today to obstructing an investigation into the December 2019 murder of a transgender woman. According to court documents, on Aug. 15, 2019, Xavier Pinckney, 24, of Allendale, provided false and misleading information to state authorities investigating the murder of Dime Doe, a transgender woman. Pinckney admitted that he concealed from state authorities the use of his phone to call and text Dime Doe the day of her murder and lied to state investigators about seeing Daqua Ritter, who allegedly shot Doe to death, on the morning of Doe’s murder. “The defendant is being held accountable for trying to obstruct an investigation into the tragic murder of a Black transgender woman,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Acts of violence against LGBTQI+ people, including transgender women of color, are on the rise and have no place in our society. The Justice Department remains steadfast in its commitment to investigating and prosecuting those who target LGBTQI+ people with acts of violence or who try to unlawfully obstruct investigations into these heinous crimes.” “Hate has no place in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “The senseless murder of Dime Doe, and any act of violence against the LGBTQI+ community, confirms the need to confront hate in all its forms. Our office will continue to pursue justice for those impacted by bias-motivated crimes.” “The defendant’s guilty plea underscores our commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions in the pursuit of justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Steve Jensen of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “The FBI and our partners remain determined to investigate crimes against marginalized communities and those who perpetrate them.” Pinckney faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the obstruction of justice offense. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI Columbia Field Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brook Andrews, Ben Garner and Elle Klein for the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Andrew Manns of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case.


title: Putnam Community Medical Center Of North Florida Agrees To Pay One Million Dollars To Settle False Claims Liability Related To Its Former Sleep Center

component: USAO - Florida, Middle

body_text: Jacksonville, FL – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces today that Putnam Community Medical Center of North Florida, who owns and operated Putnam Community Medical Center, LLC, a 99-bed hospital located in Palatka, Florida, has agreed to pay the United States $1million to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting claims to Medicare and TRICARE in connection with a now-closed sleep center that were alleged to have operated with inadequate physician supervision. According to the settlement agreement, Putnam Community Medical Center provided diagnostic sleep testing services at its now-closed sleep center, which the United States and the State of Florida allege were not provided with adequate physician supervision as required under certain Medicare coverage determinations and regulations during the period from December 2013 through February 2019. “Protecting Medicare and TRICARE patients is paramount,” said U.S. Attorney Roger Handberg. “This civil settlement demonstrates our continuing commitment to hold accountable those who abuse the nation’s healthcare programs at the expense of the taxpayers.” “Providers who participate in federal health care programs must follow the law governing the integrity of federally funded health care programs such as Medicare and Medicaid,” said Stephen Mahmood, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is committed to protecting the integrity of the Medicare and Medicaid programs and the people it serves. We will continue to work with the United States Attorney’s Office and other law enforcement partners to address allegations brought under the False Claims Act.” The settlement concludes a lawsuit originally filed in the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida by Relator Willard Revels, a former sleep center employee. Mr. Revels sued under the qui tam , or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act permitting private citizens to sue on behalf of the United States for false claims and to share in the recovery. The Act also allows the United States to intervene and prosecute the action. The Relator will receive $300,000 of the proceeds from the settlement with the defendants. This settlement resulted from effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, working with the HHS Office of Inspector General, and the Defense Criminal Investigative Service. Assistant United States Attorney Kelley C. Howard-Allen led the investigation. The government’s action in this matter illustrates the emphasis on combating health care fraud, and one of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477). The case is captioned United States, State of Florida ex rel. Willard Revels v. Putnam Community Medical Center of North Florida, LLC, et al., Case No. 3:19-cv-834-J-32JRK. The settlement agreement was filed in court today . The settlement resolves the United States’ claims in that case. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability. Putnam Community Center of North Florida denies the allegations. Download Settlement Agreement


title: Atlantic County Felon Sentenced to 170 Months in Prison for Distributing Drugs and Possessing Firearm

component: USAO - New Jersey

body_text: CAMDEN, N.J. – An Atlantic County, New Jersey, man was sentenced today to 170 months in prison for his role in drug distribution and possession of a firearm as a felon, U.S. Attorney Philip R. Sellinger announced. Clay Brown, 30, of Pleasantville, New Jersey, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Joseph H. Rodriguez to an information charging him with one count of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession of a firearm as a previously convicted felon. Judge Rodriguez imposed the sentence today in Camden federal court. According to documents filed in this case and statements made in court: Brown distributed methamphetamine and fentanyl on multiple occasions to a confidential informant. The day that agents arrested Brown for drug distribution, Brown possessed a backpack containing a firearm and controlled substances that Brown intended to distribute to others. Brown has multiple prior felony convictions that make it unlawful for him to possess a firearm. In addition to the prison term, Judge Rodriguez sentenced Brown to five years of supervised release. U.S. Attorney Sellinger credited special agents Homeland Security Investigations Newark, Atlantic City office, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Kurtz, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing. He also thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration, Newark Division, and the New Jersey State Police, Crime Suppression South Unit, for their assistance. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey Bender of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Camden.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office For The Middle District Of Florida Celebrates Funding Announced During Domestic Violence Awareness Month

body_text: Tampa, FL – U.S. Attorney Roger B. Handberg joins survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide in recognizing October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This is a time to center the experiences of survivors, honor those who lost their lives to domestic violence; express gratitude to the countless individuals in the movement to end violence; and raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. As part of its monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida is proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $1,849,837 to the Middle District to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. Data from the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Domestic violence rates are even higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals. The announced grants will reach local communities and college and campuses in the Middle District. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, improving survivor safety, and holding perpetrators accountable. Specifically, the Middle District received the following funds for the 2023 fiscal year: OVW awarded $1,050,000 under the Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program (Transitional Housing Program) to support programs that provide 6 to 24 months of transitional housing or housing assistance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. OVW awarded $799,837 under the Grants to Reduce Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking on Campus Program (Campus Program ) to support colleges and universities to develop and strengthen effective security and investigation strategies for such crimes and to develop prevention education and awareness programs. “I am pleased to announce that the Middle District of Florida has been awarded more than $1.8 million in funding from the Office on Violence Against Women,” said United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg. “These funds will help our community service provides and college campuses continue to address the systemic problem that is domestic violence.” “Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. “OVW understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities. Together, with our grantees, we are building a future where individuals and families can live and thrive without the threat of intimate partner violence.” OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw .


title: Charlotte Man Is Sentenced To 14 Years On Gun Charge In Connection With Armed Robbery And Possession Of A Weapon By An Inmate

component: USAO - North Carolina, Western

body_text: CHARLOTTE, N.C. – Today, U.S. District Judge Frank D. Whitney sentenced Antoine Marquis Williams, 35, of Charlotte, to 14 years in prison followed by three years of supervised release, for a firearms offense in connection with an armed robbery and possession of a weapon by an inmate, announced Dena J. King, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. U.S. Attorney King is joined in making today’s announcement by Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina, Terry J. Burgin, United States Marshal of the United States Marshals Service for the Western District of North Carolina, and Chief Johnny Jennings of the Charlotte Mecklenburg Police Department (CMPD). According to filed court documents and court proceedings, on February 5, 2019, at 4:37 p.m., Williams and another individual entered the NY Jewelry & Repair Store located at 6121 South Boulevard in Charlotte. Williams and his co-conspirator had their faces covered and were armed with handguns. The two men encountered the store owner who was with a customer and ordered him into the backroom with two other employees. Court documents show that Williams and his co-conspirator then went to the front of the store and began stealing jewelry. Afterwards, Williams’ co-conspirator fled the store with several items. Williams stayed behind and became involved in a struggle with the store owner. At some point during the struggle, Williams discharged his firearm two times before fleeing the store. The owner called 911 and CMPD officers located Williams hiding under a vehicle at a nearby residence. Officers also recovered the firearm Williams had used during the robbery and had attempted to discard while he was fleeing from the store. According to court documents, on September 2, 2021, the U.S. Marshals Service received a criminal investigation concerning Williams for repeated possession of weapons and use of weapons while he was in federal custody at a local detention facility. Court documents in this case indicate that, on four different occasions, Williams was found in possession of homemade weapons, generally consisting of pieces of metal filed down to a point. On one occasion, Williams used a homemade weapon to attack another inmate. During the altercation, Williams cut the victim with the homemade weapon multiple times on the face and neck. The victim required medical treatment due to injuries sustained from the attack. On April 28, 2021, Williams pleaded guilty to discharge of a firearm, in relation to, and in furtherance of a crime of violence, in connection with the armed robbery. Then on June 24, 2022, Williams pleaded guilty to possession of a weapon by an inmate. Williams remains in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility. In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney King thanked the FBI, the U.S. Marshals Service, and CMPD for their investigative efforts. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Hess of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Asheville prosecuted the case.


title: Raleigh Man Sentenced to Two Years in Prison for His Role in a  Mail Theft Scheme

component: USAO - North Carolina, Eastern

body_text: RALEIGH, N.C. – A Raleigh man was sentenced yesterday to 24 months in prison for possession of stolen mail. On July 18, 2023, Anthony Messiah Brooks, age 21, pled guilty to one count of Possession of Stolen Mail and one count of Conspiracy to Commit Theft of Mail. 500 pieces of mail recovered from a search of Brooks’ residence contained checks, U.S. currency, money orders, gift certificates, and personal identifying information for unknown individuals. At least six victims have been identified with losses of more than $30,000 although it is anticipated that there are additional victims. As part of the judgment, Brooks will be ordered to pay criminal restitution to victims in this case. According to court documents and other information presented in court, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) and the Raleigh Police Department investigated multiple occurrences of theft from U.S. Postal Service collection boxes throughout Raleigh between May and August 2022. These boxes can only be accessed by a U.S. Postal Service master key. As a result of that investigation, Brooks was found in possession of 500 pieces of mail. There is also evidence that Brooks used social media to recruit and communicate with others involved in the conspiracy. Specifically, there were direct messages to other users regarding bank account balances, photos of checks, and discussions of various meeting locations at banks. “As it has for almost 250 years, our US Postal Service operates largely upon the trust and good faith of our citizens not to abuse it,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “Unfortunately, there are those in our society who see that system of trust as an opportunity for profit, by stealing from the mail and converting the contents for financial gain. We are proud to partner with the United States Postal Inspection Service which works tirelessly to hold accountable those who abuse our mail system to enrich themselves.” “The Postal Inspection Service takes great pride in protecting postal customers from criminal activity related to the U.S. mail” said Tommy D. Coke, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “Postal Inspectors along with our local law enforcement partners will continue to vigorously investigate and seek criminal prosecution of those who use the U.S. mail to further their criminal activity.” At the sentencing hearing Brooks, who had no prior criminal record, only faced an advisory guideline sentence of 6 to 12 months. The Court, however, departed upwardly from the guideline to impose two years in prison. In doing so, the Court noted that Brooks’ conduct was egregious, and that a more significant punishment was needed to deter Brooks and others from stealing mail from, and perpetrating fraud against, the community. 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 United States Postal Inspection Service and the Raleigh Police Department investigated the case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lisa Labresh and Assistant U.S. Attorney Lori Warlick 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. 7:22-CR-00068-D. ###


title: Western Washington tribes awarded more than $5.6 million for programs that support victims of domestic violence

component: USAO - Washington, Western

body_text: Seattle – The U.S. Department of Justice Office on Violence Against Women has awarded $5.6 million to six Western Washington tribes and a non-profit entity working to combat domestic and sexual violence in tribal communities, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. The funding will be used for a range of services from emergency shelter to legal assistance to counseling for victims of domestic violence. “We know that rates of domestic and sexual violence are disproportionately higher for Alaska Native and American Indian women. These grant funds are critical to providing safety in our tribal communities,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. “We welcome the coordinated effort by the Women Spirit Coalition to bring this grant funding to Western Washington.” The tribal grants include: Port Gamble S’Klallam Tribe - $1 million for transitional housing and to strengthen tribal court system interventions. Makah Tribe - $425,000 for education and intervention strategies on domestic violence, sexual assault, and sex trafficking. Snoqualmie Indian Tribe - $998,595 for planning and implementing a supervised visitation program; providing no-cost civil legal services for survivors; and continuing their advocacy and support efforts. Confederated Tribes of the Chehalis Reservation - $650,000 – to enhance services such as crisis intervention, advocacy, emergency shelter, supportive counseling, information, and referral services. Quileute Tribe - $650,000 - the New Beginnings Program will continue effective advocacy responses for victims of domestic violence including emergency transportation, housing assistance, and transitional housing assistance. Tulalip Tribes -$1.5 million – as part of the Special Tribal Criminal Jurisdiction Program to enhance programs through the tribal prosecutor’s office that hold non-natives responsible for their crimes and provide support and safety for tribal victims. Washington State Native American Coalition against Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault - $382,188 – for the Women Spirit Coalition that works with 22 tribes on anti-violence work and community awareness. Additionally, DOJ announced $1.5 million in funding to the Washington State Attorney General’s Office to investigate Missing and Murdered Indigenous persons in “cold cases” – these are cases that occurred before 1980. The Attorney General’s Office will work with the tribes and their tribal archives to research and identify pre-1980 cold cases with civil rights violations involving Indigenous victims and create an inventory of these cases. The grant will produce a public report documenting what was found over the course of research.


title: Leader of Elizabeth City Fentanyl Trafficking Ring Sentenced to More than 12 Years in Federal Prison

body_text: WILMINGTON, N.C. – A leader of a drug trafficking organization based in Elizabeth City moving kilogram quantities of heroin and fentanyl in was sentenced today to 150 months in prison for his role as a major supplier of drugs in Eastern North Carolina. On July 26, 2023, Jamal Dance, age 31, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl analogue between 2019 and 2022. “Fentanyl is wreaking havoc on communities and tearing apart families throughout Eastern North Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Michael Easley. “This case exemplifies our unwavering dedication to thoroughly investigate and bring to justice the suppliers who are helping fuel this deadly epidemic.” "Dance distributed dangerous drugs into his own community. Each brick of fentanyl he smuggled here, equaled 50 doses. When you do the math using the results of our investigation, it is astounding to think of the damage he did to so many people's lives," said Robert M. DeWitt, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in North Carolina. "While we have taken this drug dealer off the streets, the FBI and our partners will continue working together to make our neighborhoods safe for everyone." “I would like to thank all agencies and personnel involved in this case,” said Pasquotank County Sheriff Tommy Wooten. “I’m grateful for our working relationship to ensure the safety of our respected communities. I look forward to continuing the effort to keep this poison off the streets.” According to court documents and other information presented in court, the Pasquotank Sheriff’s Office and the Elizabeth City Police Department, in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, initiated an investigation in 2020 targeting a drug trafficking organization (DTO) engaged in the importation of heroin and fentanyl from New Jersey. Through surveillance, controlled buys and investigative interviews, Dance was identified as the leader of the DTO. The investigation also revealed Dance’s role in regularly acquiring 25,000 individual dosage units of fentanyl from his source in New Jersey and distributing them through his DTO in Elizabeth City and the surrounding area. On June 2, 2022, Dance was arrested in Chesapeake, VA after returning from securing supply in New Jersey. The search of his vehicle resulted in the discovery of over $14,000 in cash, and 10,000 individually packaged dosage units of fentanyl and fentanyl analogue, totaling approximately 150 grams. On the same date, a search warrant was executed at his residence in Elizabeth City, where officers seized a loaded .40 caliber handgun, a loaded AR rifle, various ammunitions, cash and marijuana. This investigation was an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launders, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. Michael Easley, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after sentencing by Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II. The Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pasquotank, Dare and Camden County Sheriffs’ Offices, the Elizabeth City and Chesapeake (VA) Police Departments and the N.C. State Bureau of Investigation investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kate Englander 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. 2:22-cr-00022-M. ###


title: Alpine Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Possession of Child Pornography

component: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI)

body_text: ALPINE, Texas – An Alpine man was sentenced in a federal court in Alpine to 78 months in prison for possession of child sexual abuse material. According to court documents, Timothy Rey Korteland, 19, engaged in multiple conversations, sexual in nature, with a minor in another state over the messaging application Discord. An FBI agent executed a search warrant for Korteland’s Discord account, revealing multiple instances of Korteland claiming to have child sexual abuse material. Agents with Homeland Security Investigations and the FBI conducted a search warrant at Korteland’s residence, removing all electronics in his possession, and found multiple video files depicting young children engaged in sexual activity saved in an application on his cell phone. Korteland pleaded guilty to the possession of child pornography charge on March 28. “This defendant, by his own estimate, possessed around 2,000 videos of child sexual abuse material and other illicit sexual content, and was forming an online relationship with a minor,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “I appreciate the collaborative efforts by our federal law enforcement partners to prevent Korteland from causing any further harm to his victims. This federal prison sentence should serve as a warning to anyone who seeks out and possesses material of this nature, that we will be relentless in our pursuit of justice.” “The FBI remains steadfast in our commitment to protect children from those who seek to exploit their innocence,” said Special Agent in Charge John S. Morales of the FBI El Paso Field Office. “These types of cases serve as a reminder of the importance for parents/caregivers to be aware of who their children are talking to when they are online and playing in group gaming platforms.” “This sentence is a testament to the repugnant nature of child exploitation crimes which only perpetuates the trauma endured by victims,” said Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola of the HSI El Paso Division. “HSI agents make it a top priority to protect vulnerable children from victimization by working with their law enforcement partners to investigate predators involved in child sexual abuse material and ensure they are held accountable for their heinous actions.” The FBI and HSI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Greenbaum prosecuted the case. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . ###


title: Tucson Man Arrested for Mass Shooting Threat at University of Arizona

component: USAO - Arizona

body_text: TUCSON, Ariz. – Michael Lee, 27, of Tucson, was arrested yesterday on a federal complaint warrant by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Southern Arizona Violent Crime and Gang Task Force for transmitting threats through interstate communications for threatening to commit a mass shooting at the University of Arizona. The complaint alleges that Lee transmitted threats to commit a mass shooting at the university in a group chat on Snapchat. Lee is not a student at the university but expressed a desire to get revenge on “all the chads and stacies!!” “Chads” and “stacies” are commonly used terms by self-described involuntary celibates (incels). Lee made further reference to incel ideology, and finished the conversation by stating “im gonna do it guys, my mind is made up and there’s nothing u can do or say to stop me.” The United States will have 30 days from arrest to indict Lee. A complaint is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the University of Arizona Police Department, as part of the FBI’s Southern Arizona Violent Crime and Gang Task Force, conducted the investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Rossi, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution. CASE NUMBER: 23-02094MJ RELEASE NUMBER: 2023-160_Lee # # # 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: Youth Basketball Coach Sentenced to 15 years in Prison for Production of Child Pornography

component: USAO - Puerto Rico

body_text: SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico– United States District Court Judge Aida Delgado-Colón sentenced Ángel Gabriel Díaz-Rosado, a youth basketball coach from Toa Baja to 15 years in prison and 15 years of supervised release. Díaz-Rosado was arrested by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents in 2019 after being charged for attempted production of child pornography, coercion and enticement of minors, and transfer of obscene material to a minor. According to court documents, Ángel Gabriel Díaz-Rosado plead guilty on June 20, 2023, for enticement and coercion of a 13-year-old male minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct, knowing that such visual depiction would be transported in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce by using any means and facility of interstate and foreign commerce. In March of 2019, the defendant was a youth basketball coach for minor males. During such period, Díaz Rosado used his cell phone via the WhatsApp messaging application to communicate and request sexually explicit images of a 13-year-old male minor he coached. Díaz Rosado communicated with the male minor in a sexually explicit manner, requested images of the minor’s penis, and videos of the minor masturbating. The minor complied with the requests and sent the sexually explicit images to Díaz Rosado. “The actions of this individual in this case were nothing short of reprehensible,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “He shamefully targeted minors who were under his care. The U.S. Attorney’s Office remains committed to protecting children from abuse and holding accountable those individuals who would victimize minors.” HSI Special Agent in Charge Rebecca González-Ramos said: “We must be vigilant and unwavering in our commitment to stop predators, especially the ones serving in public trust positions. This individual was a former basketball coach and a Physical Education teacher; we feel that justice was served with today’s sentence. HSI will continue its efforts to protect our children and will continue to collaborate with federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies to investigate and apprehend those who attempt to abuse them.” Assistant U.S. Attorney and Chief of the Child Exploitation and Immigration Unit, Jenifer Y. Hernández-Vega, prosecuted the case. Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) led the investigation with the assistance of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau and the Puerto Rico Department of Family. For more information about HSI’s efforts to protect children from sexual predators, visit https://www.ice.gov/topics/iGuardians ; and to report suspicious activities, call 787-729-6969. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc . ### About Homeland Security Investigations HSI is the principal investigative arm of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS), responsible for investigating transnational crime and threats, specifically those criminal organizations that exploit the global infrastructure through which international trade, travel, and finance move. HSI’s workforce of more than 8,700 employees consists of more than 6,000 special agents assigned to 237 cities throughout the United States, and 93 overseas locations in 56 countries. HSI’s international presence represents DHS’s largest investigative law enforcement presence abroad and one of the largest international footprints in U.S. law enforcement. # HSI #


title: Farmington Hills Psychotherapy Clinic Owner Sentenced for  Health Care Fraud Conspiracy Charges

component: USAO - Michigan, Eastern

body_text: DETROIT - A Farmington Hills clinic owner was sentenced to 7 years and 6 months in federal prison after having pleaded guilty to health care fraud and money laundering charges, announced United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison. Joining Ison in the announcement were Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan, and Mario Pinto, Special Agent-In-Charge, United States Department of Health, and Human Services – Office of Inspector General. Sentenced was Mohamed Kazkaz, 54. Kazkaz was sentenced before United States District Judge Gershwin A. Drain in Detroit. Kazkaz was also ordered to forfeit approximately $5.3 million as the gross proceeds of his unlawful conduct. During his plea, Kazkaz admitted he owned and controlled Centre HRW, a purported psychotherapy agency in Farmington Hills, Michigan for the purpose of submitting false and fraudulent claims to Medicare, seeking reimbursement for psychotherapy services that were not provided or were otherwise not eligible for reimbursement and whose Medicare identification numbers were procured through kickbacks and bribes. Kazkaz offered and provided kickbacks and bribes to Ziad Khalel, and others, as an inducement to refer Medicare beneficiaries to Centre for psychotherapy services, even though such services were medically unnecessary and were never rendered. Khalel would require the recruited Medicare beneficiaries to sign blank Centre sign-in sheets. Kazkaz and others, completed the sheets as if the patients had been provided psychotherapy services and relied upon them to support his fraudulent claims to Medicare, through Centre, for psychotherapy services that were never rendered. In furtherance of the scheme, Kazkaz instructed employees to obtain information regarding the Medicare beneficiaries legitimate medical visits and or treatments to ensure Kazkaz did not submit a fraudulent claim for a psychotherapy appointment on the same date the beneficiary had a legitimate appointment with another medical provider. Kazkaz admitted he submitted or caused the submission of approximately $11 million dollars in fraudulent claims to Medicare, and Medicare paid approximately $5.3 million dollars to Kazkaz as a result of the fraudulent submissions. In furtherance of the conspiracy, Kazkaz would transfer the proceeds of the health care fraud scheme to various entities in an effort to conceal the proceeds. Specifically, on January 21, 2023, after his arraignment in this case, he transferred approximately $1,445,000 in a cashier’s check issued by a financial institution located in the Eastern District of Michigan to National Restaurant Chain #1 knowing the source of these funds was criminal proceeds from the health care fraud scheme. “The actions of this defendant undermine the trust we place in our health care providers,” said United States Attorney Ison. “We hope this prosecution sends a message that we will aggressively seek to hold individuals accountable who steal from federally funded programs, such as Medicare, which are meant to help those in need.” “Medical providers and others who unlawfully benefit from the payment of kickbacks in exchange for patient referrals, as well as bill our federal health care programs for medically unnecessary and non-rendered services, waste valuable taxpayer dollars and erode the trust that we place in these individuals,” said Mario M. Pinto, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to identify and investigate those who defraud our federal health care system.” "Whenever the integrity of our health care programs is compromised, it erodes the trust that patients place in providers and puts everyone at risk,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, the Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. "Health care fraud is not a victimless crime. Whenever false claims are submitted to our federal health care programs, everyone bears the cost through potentially higher insurance premiums, out-of-pocket expenses, and even reduced or lost benefits. The FBI remains committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that those who attempt to personally profit through these false claims and money laundering schemes are held accountable.” The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Regina R. McCullough and Philip A. Ross. Assistant United States Attorney K. Craig Welkener, of the Money Laundering & Asset Recovery Unit is handling related forfeiture matters. The investigation is being conducted jointly by the FBI and HHS-OIG.


title: Mexican National Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking Fentanyl

component: USAO - Texas, Western

body_text: ALPINE, Texas – A Mexican national was sentenced in a federal court in Alpine to 70 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. According to court documents, Erick Botello Reyes, 21, attempted to enter the United States from Mexico at the Presidio Port of Entry on April 2. Upon inspection of his vehicle, a Customs and Border Protection K-9 alerted CBP Officers of a possible narcotics presence inside the vehicle’s dashboard. The officers searched the vehicle, locating 9.4 kilograms of cocaine and 347.3 grams of fentanyl. Reyes was then taken into custody. He pleaded guilty on June 29 to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. “Cutting off these trafficking attempts disrupts the activities of cartels and other drug trafficking organizations,” said U.S. Attorney Jaime Esparza for the Western District of Texas. “In coordination with our federal, state and local partners, my office continues to hold accountable the individuals who bring fentanyl into the country and carelessly poison our communities.” “The sad truth is that the fentanyl epidemic in our communities continues to claim so many lives and it’s utterly unacceptable," said Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola of the HSI El Paso Division. “HSI remains committed to investigate and ultimately dismantle drug smuggling organizations who attempt to smuggle and peddle deadly drugs in our communities. This sentence will give ample time for the defendant to think about his criminal activity behind bars.” HSI investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Amy Greenbaum and Matthew Ellis prosecuted the case. ###


title: Five Sentenced to Domestic Violence Charges During  Domestic Violence Awareness Month

body_text: October marks the observance of Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson announced that five individuals were sentenced this week in federal court to domestic violence charges. Justin Samuel Barzellone , 43, of Tulsa, plead guilty on June 3, 2022, to assault of an intimate/dating partner by strangling and suffocating in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Barzellone to 37 months followed by 3 years of supervised release. In his plea agreement, Barzellone stated that he was arguing with his fiancé and placed his arm around her neck and squeezed to prevent her from breathing. He further stated that he hit her several times and slammed her head against a sliding glass door. Barzellone is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The FBI and the Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation and Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas Buscemi prosecuted the case. Patrick Ethan Brashers , 42, of Chelsea, plead guilty on June 9, 2022, to one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country, and one count of assault by striking, beating, and wounding. U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Brashers to 20 months followed by 3 years of supervised release. In his plea agreement Brashers, admitted to stomping and breaking the kneecap of his victim in front of their child. In a separate incident, Brashers admittingly pushed down his victim in front of their children and put his foot on her back, pushing her down again. Brashers is a member of the Cherokee Nation. The FBI, Rogers County Sheriff’s Office, and Chelsea Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Thomas Buscemi and Julie Childress prosecuted the case. Bryant Sosa Chavez-Danillo , 24, of Tulsa, plead guilty on July 15, 2022, to assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Chavez-Danillo to 36 months followed by 3 years of supervised release. In his plea agreement, Chavez-Danillo stated that he was arguing with the victim in a vehicle. The victim attempted to leave the vehicle and he wrapped his arm around her neck and pulled her back into the vehicle. He further stated that he stabbed the victim in the abdomen. The victim is a member of Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The FBI conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Shakema Onias, Michael Harder, and Julie Childress prosecuted the case. Jared Wayne Williams , 34, of Sand Springs, plead guilty on September 14, 2022, to two counts of aggravated sexual abuse by force and threat in Indian County and two counts of child neglect in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge John F. Heil sentenced Williams to 180 months. Following his release from prison, Williams is required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to lifetime supervision. Judge Heil further ordered Williams to pay $1,863.44 in restitution. In his plea agreement, Williams admitted that on 2 separate occasions he sexually assaulted the mother of his children. He further stated that other physical and sexual assaults took place in front of minor children. Williams is a member of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. The FBI, Bixby Police Department, and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys George Jiang and Stacey Todd prosecuted the case. Samuel Aaronson Ragster , 31, of Tulsa, plead guilty on July 15, 2022, to one count of assault of an intimate/dating partner by strangling and suffocating in Indian Country, and one count of assault resulting in serious bodily injury in Indian Country. U.S. District Judge Raul M. Arias-Marxuach sentenced Ragster to 78 months followed by 3 years of supervised release. In court documents, Ragster admitted that he grabbed his victim by her throat and slammed her into a bookcase. She suffered significant puncture wounds in her back which required surgical staples to close. He then threw her on the bed and strangled her. The victim is a member of the Cherokee Nation. The FBI and Tulsa Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Briden prosecuted the case. Every October, Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) renews our commitment to addressing and preventing domestic violence. Domestic violence, dating violence, and intimate partner violence can have long-lasting impacts and consequences. Approximately one in four women and one in seven men will experience severe domestic violence in their lifetimes; however, rates are disproportionately higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, women of Color, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and two-spirit people, and people with disabilities. DVAM provides an opportunity to spread awareness about domestic violence and encourage everyone to play a role in ending gender-based violence. “Domestic violence affects us all personally in some way,” said U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson. “And we who serve as federal prosecutors for the Northern District of Oklahoma have a duty to use all the tools at our disposal—and leverage our partnerships with local law enforcement and prosecutors—to ensure victims have a viable path to safety and justice.” As part of its monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for Northern District of Oklahoma is proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded $1,125,000 to the Northern District to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. OVW awarded $575,000 to the City of Tulsa under the Rural Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Assistance Program (Rural Program) to support programs by local government, community-based organizations, and medical providers in rural areas to improve the safety of survivors. OVW awarded $550,000 to Domestic Violence Intervention Services, Inc. (DVIS) under the Transitional Housing Assistance Grants for Victims of Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Program (Transitional Housing Program) to support programs that provide 6 to 24 months of transitional housing or housing assistance to survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. U.S. Attorney Clint Johnson joins the U.S. Department of Justice in commemorating DVAM, paying tribute to victims and survivors, and saluting the dedication of advocates, service providers, justice professionals, law enforcement officers, and first responders who tirelessly work in support of survivors. Facing domestic violence? Find support in your state through @OVWJustice's Local Resources: https://www.justice.gov/ovw/local-resources .


title: Former Hamtramck Police Officer Pleads Guilty To Bribery

body_text: DETROIT - A former police officer with the Hamtramck Police Department pleaded guilty today to taking bribes from a towing company operator, United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced. Ison was joined in the announcement by Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Michael Stout, 61, of St. Clair Shores, resigned from the Hamtramck Police Department in 2020. But while he was working as a police officer there, Stout accepted bribes, including a vehicle and $1,500 in cash, from a towing company operator. In return, Stout provided information from the Michigan Law Enforcement Information Network (or LEIN), a restricted law enforcement database, to the towing company operator. For instance, when the towing company operator told Stout that he was worried that a police vehicle had been following him, Stout called an unwitting employee to search LEIN so Stout could provide the vehicle’s registration information to the towing company operator and thereby check whether it was a law enforcement vehicle. Stout pleaded guilty to bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds, a violation of 18 U.S.C. § 666. This bribery charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. Stout is scheduled to be sentenced on February 29, 2024, at 1:30 pm before United States District Judge Matthew F. Leitman. “The public needs the commitment of their police officers to uphold the rule of law, not to break it for their own financial gain. Today’s guilty plea underscores our commitment to ensure that officers who violate the public trust and accept bribes will answer for their crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Ison. “Mr. Stout violated his oath to serve, and his misconduct was a betrayal of the trust placed upon him by the citizens of Hamtramck and his fellow officers,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “It is important to note that his actions do not represent the brave and exceptional work that our law enforcement officers perform daily. The FBI would like to thank Anne Moise, the Chief of Police in Hamtramck, for her department’s assistance throughout the investigation. The FBI is dedicated to holding corrupt police officers accountable and ensuring that the people of Michigan can have confidence in the integrity of law enforcement.” The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation's Detroit Area Corruption Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven P. Cares.


title: U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana celebrates funding announced during Domestic Violence Awareness Month

component: Office on Violence Against Women

body_text: BILLINGS — The Department of Justice joins survivors, victim service providers, advocates, and communities nationwide in recognizing October as National Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM). This is a time to center the experiences of survivors, honor those who lost their lives to domestic violence; express gratitude to the countless individuals in the movement to end violence; and raise awareness on the issues of domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. As part of its monthlong observance of DVAM, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Montana is proud to announce that the Department’s Office on Violence Against Women (OVW) awarded more than $4.7 million to Montana to bolster coordinated community responses aimed at bringing an end to domestic violence, as well as sexual assault, dating violence, and stalking. Data from the most recent National Intimate Partner and Sexual Violence Survey indicate about 41% of women and 26% of men experienced contact sexual violence, physical violence, and/or stalking by an intimate partner and reported an intimate partner violence-related impact during their lifetime. Domestic violence rates are even higher for American Indian and Alaska Native populations, Black individuals, people of color, people with disabilities, and LGBTQI+ individuals. The announced grants will reach Tribal nations, historically marginalized communities, underserved communities, college and university campuses, rural towns, culturally specific communities, and more. The funding prioritizes increasing access to justice, improving survivor safety, holding perpetrators accountable, and offering training and technical support to professionals addressing these crimes. Specifically, Montana received the following funds for the 2023 fiscal year: OVW awarded $340,618 under State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program to enhance the coordination between courts, child protective services agencies, advocates, law enforcement, and community programs to encourage trauma-informed, survivor-centered responses to domestic violence and sexual assault. The award will go to the Montana Coalition Against Domestic and Sexual Violence. OVW awarded $2.93 million under the Rural Sexual Assault, Domestic Violence, Dating Violence, and Stalking Assistance Program (Rural Program) to support programs by local government, community-based organizations, and medical providers in rural areas to improve the safety of survivors. The awards will go to Supporters of Abuse Free Environments, $743,863; Friendship Center of Helena, $748,539; St. Peter’s Health Foundation, $700,000; and Hi-Line’s Help for Abused Spouses, $743,233. OVW awarded $1.5 million under the Training and Technical Assistance Initiative to support training and technical assistance programs to enhance the efforts of grant recipients to implement projects supported by OVW funds successfully. The award will go to Inspire Action for Social Change Inc. U.S. Attorney Jesse Laslovich for the District of Montana commented: “I am pleased to announce that Montana has been awarded funding from the Office on Violence Against Women. Domestic violence in all its forms must stop. As we continue to prosecute and hold offenders accountable, we must also work to support and help survivors and victims of this violent abuse. These grants will fund services, organizations and agencies that are doing important work in communities across Montana to provide victim services and to raise awareness to end this violence.” “Every day, a vast network of dedicated individuals helps domestic violence survivors access multiple pathways to safety, justice, and healing,” said OVW Director Rosie Hidalgo. “OVW understands that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to addressing domestic violence. These funds will enable communities to increase capacity and strengthen a coordinated community approach to prevent and address violence in more comprehensive ways tailored to their communities. Together, with our grantees, we are building a future where individuals and families can live and thrive without the threat of intimate partner violence.” OVW provides leadership in developing the nation’s capacity to reduce violence through implementing VAWA and subsequent legislation. Created in 1995, OVW administers financial and technical assistance to communities nationwide that are developing programs, policies, and practices to end domestic violence, dating violence, sexual assault, and stalking. In addition to overseeing federal grant programs, OVW undertakes initiatives in response to special needs identified by communities facing acute challenges. Learn more at www.justice.gov/ovw . XXX


title: Hainze Díaz Arroyo, “La H,” Indicted for Firearms Violations

body_text: SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – A federal grand jury in the District of Puerto Rico returned an indictment charging Hainze Díaz Arroyo, also known in the music industry as “Hanzel la H”, with firearms violations. Díaz Arroyo was arrested on July 10 for violating his federal supervised release and has remained detained since his arrest. According to court documents, Díaz Arroyo was charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, that is, a convicted felon. Specifically, it was alleged that on July 10, 2023, Díaz Arroyo, knowing he had been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess a firearm. Díaz Arroyo possessed a Glock model 23 .40 caliber pistol, one 13-round capacity magazine, one 22-round capacity magazine, and 36 rounds of .40 caliber ammunition. “Fighting gun violence remains a top priority for our office and the Justice Department and, as this case shows, we are steadfast in our commitment to prosecute those who violate federal firearms laws,” said W. Stephen Muldrow, U.S. Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico. “We commend the special agents, Deputy U.S. Marshals, and prosecutors who continue working together to fight against violent crime in our communities.” HSI Special Agent in Charge Rebecca González-Ramos said: “To reduce the violence on our island, we need to focus on removing the firearms and the violent individuals from the streets; this is the second time in the last ten years that this individual has been arrested for firearm violations. As an agency, we will not tolerate violent individuals who believe they are above the law.” United States Marshal for the District of Puerto Rico, Wilmer Ocasio-Ibarra said: “This significant arrest highlights the strategic coordination and collaboration of the United States Marshal Service and Homeland Security Investigations. Hainze Díaz Arroyo thought he would evade the authorities in Puerto Rico. The U.S. Marshals Service is committed to the safety of our community, we will never stop the search of violent fugitives who are trying to evade the law. As we have always pointed out, it is a matter of time before we knock on your door.” If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Homeland Security Investigations and the U.S. Marshals are investigating the case, with the collaboration of the Puerto Rico Police Bureau. Assistant U.S. Attorney Teresa Zapata-Valladares, Deputy Chief of the Gang Unit, and AUSA Corinne Cordero-Romo are prosecuting the case. To report suspicious activities related to the illegal movement of firearms, call HSI San Juan's 24/7 phone line at 787-729-6969. 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: Detroit Man Sentenced to 9 Years In Prison  for Three Violent Carjackings

body_text: DETROIT – A Detroit man was sentenced today to 9 years in federal prison following his convictions for two attempted carjackings and one completed carjacking— including one where he fired an assault rifle at a teenager. United States Attorney Dawn N. Ison announced the sentencing today and was joined in the announcement Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation. According to court records, Gregory Horsley, 20, of Detroit, Michigan, committed the carjackings on May 14, 2021, in Beverly Hills, Michigan. During each offense, Horsley targeted strangers who were inside their vehicles near the intersection of Thirteen Mile Road and Evergreen. In the first carjacking, Horsley approached the 16-year-old victim as he was seated in his car. Horsley pulled out a loaded assault rifle and pointed it at the driver. As the teenager drove off, Horsley fired his weapon, striking the vehicle. Horsley next approached a vehicle driven by a woman. Horsley brandished his firearm and ordered her out of the car. The victim fled the driver’s seat and Horsley entered her car. But he could not drive away because the victim had the key fob in her pocket. Horsley exited that vehicle and approached a third driver. Horsley pointed his firearm at the male driver and ordered him out of the car. The driver complied. Horsley then took the keys and drove off in the car. The carjacked vehicle was found a few days later. Horsley was identified by surveillance video and taken into custody at his home in Detroit. “Those who seek to prey on motorists going about their business will continue to have our full attention, and we will not hesitate to pursue federal prosecution and significant penalties at our disposal,” stated U.S. Attorney Ison. “The FBI is committed to leveraging its assets in collaboration with our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe from gun violence,” said Cheyvoryea Gibson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI in Michigan. “We are proud of the cooperative work done by the FBI Oakland County Gang and Violent Crime Task Force. Michigan residents deserve to live in a state free from violent crime – we continue to request the public’s assistance to help us in this mission by reporting any suspicious or violent behavior to 1-800-CALLFBI (1-800-225-5324) or submitting tips online to http://tips.fbi.gov.” The case was investigated by special agents of the FBI, the Beverly Hills Police Department, the Southfield Police Department, the Detroit Police Department, and handled by Assistant United States Attorneys Jeanine Brunson and Michael Taylor.


title: Man Sentenced for Bringing Explosive Device into Bethlehem-Area ER

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

body_text: PHILADELPHIA – United States Attorney Jacqueline C. Romero announced that Brian James Kunsman, 46, of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania was sentenced to 77 months’ imprisonment and 3 years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Jeffrey L. Schmehl, for possession of an unregistered destructive device. In October of 2021, the defendant possessed a ‘pipe bomb’ inside the emergency room at St. Luke’s University Hospital in the Fountain Hill section of the City of Bethlehem. An attending nurse discovered that Kunsman had brought the homemade destructive device in his backpack while he was a patient at the emergency room. Following the discovery, the emergency department of the hospital was evacuated for a four-hour period and all incoming trauma patients had to be diverted to other local hospitals. "Homemade explosive devices are a dangerous threat in any circumstance; prompting an evacuation in an emergency department where patients are receiving acute medical care is unconscionable," said U.S. Attorney Romero. We are grateful to our law enforcement partners for working quickly and efficiently to ensure the safety of everyone impacted by Kunsman's actions." “The defendant engaged in incredibly reckless behavior, endangering the lives of the hospital staff, patients, and first responders,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Eric DeGree. “We appreciate the support of the United States Attorney’s office and our state and local law enforcement partners throughout this investigation,” The case was investigated by the Allentown Field Office of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Borough of Fountain Hill Police Department, the Allentown Bomb Squad, and the Lehigh County District Attorney’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly A. Lewis Fallenstein.


title: Non-Citizen Convicted Of Hindering Removal To Trinidad And Tobago

component: USAO - Pennsylvania, Middle

body_text: WILLIAMSPORT - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Brent Anthony Benito, age 39, citizen of Trinidad and Tobago, was convicted of hindering his removal to Trinidad and Tobago following a two-day jury trial before U.S. District Court Chief Judge Matthew W. Brann that concluded on October 24, 2023. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Benito entered the United States illegally in 2013 and in 2014, was convicted in Delaware County of sexual assault, and sentenced to 48-96 months’ imprisonment. In 2016, he was ordered removed from the United States and was scheduled for a flight back to Trinidad and Tobago in March 2022, but refused to be fingerprinted and board the plane. After another flight was scheduled to remove him from the United States in April 2022, he refused to take a Covid-19 test which was required to enter Trinidad and Tobago. This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). Assistant United States Attorneys Alisan V. Martin and Geoffrey MacArthur are prosecuting the case. Benito faces a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. # # #


title: U.S. Attorney Darcie N. McElwee Statement on Mass Casualty Shooting in Lewiston

component: USAO - Maine

body_text: The horrific violence perpetrated on our friends and neighbors in the Lewiston community last evening has been shocking and frightening for us all. The devastating impact on the families of the victims weighs heavily on everyone today. We know the events of the past day have created an atmosphere of fear and anxiety. Please know that the top priority of the entire Maine law enforcement community is to address any immediate danger. Everything possible is being done to locate the suspect and bring this situation to a safe end. The investigation is ongoing, and our local and state law enforcement partners are confidently leading the way, using every tool at their disposal. Maine enjoys uniquely strong partnerships among local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies within and beyond its borders. I assure you that hundreds of dedicated law enforcement professionals at all levels from across the Northeast have responded to Lewiston, and will continue to respond, as needed, to assist and support the officers, detectives, deputies, troopers, and wardens who are conducting the manhunt and processing these tragic events, and to offer critical victim support and resources. These experienced professionals will continue to work together around the clock to bring this incident to a close. They, too, are deeply affected by the senseless attack of this scale on the Lewiston community. Please show patience, have faith in them, and keep them in your thoughts as we witness their bravery and dedicated service. ###


title: State College Man Sentenced To Twenty Years’ Imprisonment For Child Exploitation Offense

body_text: HARRISBURG- The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Kristopher R. Hall, age 46, formerly of State College, Pennsylvania, was sentenced today by the Honorable Jennifer P. Wilson to 20 years’ imprisonment to be followed by 20 years of supervised released based upon his previously entered guilty plea for attempting to produce images containing the sexual exploitation of a child. Hall is currently incarcerated at the Dauphin County Prison on related local charges. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Hall solicited a 14-year-old female to send him sexually explicit images and engaged in a sexual relationship with that victim for approximately six months. Hall also solicited and received sexually explicit images from three additional minor females. Hall pleaded guilty in the Court of Common Pleas for Cumberland County to indecent sexual assault of a person under the age of 16 regarding his relationship with the 14-year-old female victim and is scheduled to be sentenced for that offense on October 31, 2023. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood , a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . The case was investigated by the State College Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Former Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul J. Miovas and Criminal Chief Assistant U.S. Attorney Bruce D. Brandler prosecuted the case. # # #


title: South Carolina Man Pleads Guilty to Obstructing Justice in the Murder of a Black Transgender Woman

component: USAO - South Carolina

body_text: WASHINGTON – A South Carolina man pleaded guilty today to obstructing an investigation into the December 2019 murder of a transgender woman. According to court documents, on Aug. 15, 2019, Xavier Pinckney, 24, of Allendale, provided false and misleading information to state authorities investigating the murder of Dime Doe, a transgender woman. Pinckney admitted that he concealed from state authorities the use of his phone to call and text Dime Doe the day of her murder and lied to state investigators about seeing Daqua Ritter, who allegedly shot Doe to death, on the morning of Doe’s murder. “The defendant is being held accountable for trying to obstruct an investigation into the tragic murder of a Black transgender woman,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “Acts of violence against LGBTQI+ people, including transgender women of color, are on the rise and have no place in our society. The Justice Department remains steadfast in its commitment to investigating and prosecuting those who target LGBTQI+ people with acts of violence or who try to unlawfully obstruct investigations into these heinous crimes.” “Hate has no place in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Adair F. Boroughs for the District of South Carolina. “The senseless murder of Dime Doe, and any act of violence against the LGBTQI+ community, confirms the need to confront hate in all its forms. Our office will continue to pursue justice for those impacted by bias-motivated crimes.” “The defendant’s guilty plea underscores our commitment to holding individuals accountable for their actions in the pursuit of justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Steve Jensen of the FBI Columbia Field Office. “The FBI and our partners remain determined to investigate crimes against marginalized communities and those who perpetrate them.” Pinckney faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the obstruction of justice offense. A sentencing date has not yet been scheduled. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. The FBI Columbia Field Office investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brook Andrews, Ben Garner and Elle Klein for the District of South Carolina and Trial Attorney Andrew Manns of the Civil Rights Division’s Criminal Section are prosecuting the case. ###


title: New York Man Pleads Guilty To Methamphetamine Trafficking In Susquehanna County

body_text: SCRANTON - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Pennsylvania announced that Roy Niles, age 58, of Nineveh, New York, pleaded guilty on October 26, 2023, before U.S. District Court Judge Robert D. Mariani, to the charge of conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. According to United States Attorney Gerard M. Karam, Niles admitted to conspiring with another individual to distribute between 1.5 kilograms and 5 kilograms of crystal methamphetamine in the Susquehanna County area in March 2020. The charge stems from an incident in March 2020, in which Niles arranged to purchase several pounds of crystal methamphetamine from another individual in Susquehanna County. After the methamphetamine was received by Niles, the Pennsylvania State Police moved in and attempted to arrest him. Niles fled from the police and led police on a high-speed chase from Pennsylvania into New York. Niles was later apprehended. The charge against the defendant resulted from an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Pennsylvania State Police. The New York State Police also provided assistance during the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Robert J. O’Hara is prosecuting the 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. Under federal law, the drug trafficking offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years in prison, up to a maximum sentence of life in prison, a term of supervised release following imprisonment, and a fine. A sentence following a finding of guilt is imposed by the Judge after consideration of the applicable federal sentencing statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines. # # #


title: Denver man convicted of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl

component: Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA)

body_text: Traquevis Dewayne Hardy, age 46, of Denver, Colorado, was convicted on Oct. 25 by a federal jury for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl in Wyoming. The trial lasted two days and was held before Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl in Casper, Wyoming. Hardy was indicted by a federal grand jury and pleaded not guilty to the charge in May. According to evidence presented at trial, detectives with the Cheyenne Police Department and agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted custodial interviews with several individuals who had recently been arrested and charged with drug crimes. The interviews, along with corroborating evidence from cellphones and Facebook, demonstrated that these individuals received at least 5,600 fentanyl pills from Hardy for distribution in Wyoming. Sentencing has been set for Jan. 16, 2024. Hardy faces 5 to 40 years in prison, up to a $5 million fine, and no less than four years of supervised release. The judge will determine Hardy’s sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. This crime was investigated by the Cheyenne Police Department, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Wyoming Division of Criminal Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Timothy J. Forwood and Paige Hammer. Case No. 23-CR-00053


title: Springfield Man Involved in Shooting Sentenced for Illegal Firearms

component: USAO - Missouri, Western

body_text: SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing firearms on four separate occasions, including an incident that involved a shooting in a neighborhood. Darris Lamar Mull, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 11 years and three months in federal prison without parole. On Dec. 19, 2022, Mull pleaded guilty to four counts of being a felon in possession of firearms. Mull admitted he was in possession of a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol and a Kel-Tec pistol with an extended 30-round magazine on Dec. 6, 2020. He also possessed firearms on Dec. 15, 2017, when law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at his residence and found a firearm in the dining room and another firearm in the closet; on March 30, 2018, when police officers searched Mull’s vehicle after a traffic stop and found a loaded firearm in the glove box; and on Sept. 2, 2021, when officers found a loaded firearm in his backpack following a foot chase. Mull, along with co-defendants Cartevion Marquis Chapman, 35, and Nicholas David Caligone, 45, both of Springfield, was involved in a shooting and retaliatory shooting that occurred on Dec. 5 and 6, 2020, over allegations that Mull had stolen drugs from another individual. Chapman’s vehicle was damaged in a drive-by shooting at Zan Nightclub in downtown Springfield on Dec. 5, 2020. After leaving the nightclub, Chapman met with Mull. Mull received a phone call from his girlfriend, who said the individuals responsible for the shooting at the club were armed and inside their house looking for him. Mull was upset because they went to his house when his kids were present. They went to check on Mull’s girlfriend and children, then Caligone drove Chapman and Mull to find the people who had been at his house, who were at an address on Kerr Street in Springfield. When they arrived at the Kerr Street residence at about 6 a.m. on Dec. 6, 2020, Chapman told investigators, they got out of the car and “bullets went flying.” Chapman, Mull and others fired multiple rounds; police officers recovered 40 spent shell casings from the area of the shooting. Shell casings were found in front of at least eight separate residences, indicating that Chapman and Mull sprayed the neighborhood with bullets. At least two of the homes had damage consistent with being struck by gunfire. Chapman and Mull got into Caligone’s Volkswagen immediately after the shooting and left the area. According to the evidence presented at today’s sentencing hearing, Chapman handed his Kel-Tec firearm to Mull, who put it under the front passenger seat, and put Mull’s Smith & Wesson pistol, which was stolen, in the glovebox. Springfield police officers who heard the gunshots saw Caligone’s vehicle at the intersection of East Kearney and North Delaware and conducted a traffic stop. Caligone, who was driving, Chapman, who was in the front passenger seat, and Mull, who was in the back passenger seat, were arrested. Investigators determined that some of the expended cartridges recovered from the scene of the Kerr Street shooting came from the two guns found in Caligone’s vehicle and others were fired from two other guns that were not recovered. Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Mull has two prior felony convictions for forgery and a prior felony conviction for non-support. The government’s sentencing motion notes that violent crimes committed with firearms is a significant issue in southwest Missouri. According to the National Incident Based Reporting System, the Springfield Police Department reported 734 violent crimes committed with firearms and 19 homicides in 2021, with approximately 79 percent of the homicides being committed with a firearm. The Greene County Sheriff’s Department reported 44 violent crimes committed with firearms and six homicides, all committed with firearms. Although violent crime numbers were down slightly in Springfield in 2022, illegal possession and use of firearms have increased. In 2022, Springfield police officers seized 229 illegal guns, an increase from the 150 illegal guns seized in 2021. There was also a record high of “shots fired” calls in 2022, with a total of 356 incidents that resulted in 73 injuries. Chapman was sentenced on April 4, 2023, to nine years and seven months in federal prison without parole after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearms. Caligone pleaded guilty on July 5, 2022, to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 16, 2023. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the FBI, and the Springfield, Mo., Police Department. Project Safe Neighborhoods 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: St. Joseph Man Sentenced for Heroin Conspiracy

body_text: KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A St. Joseph, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute more than two kilograms of heroin. Harvey E. Johnson, 50, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Greg Kays to 12 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Johnson to forfeit to the government $43,200, which represents the proceeds of illegal drug trafficking. On Aug. 4, 2021, Johnson pleaded guilty to participating in a conspiracy to distribute heroin in the St. Joseph area from Sept. 1, 2019, to March 26, 2021. Johnson was in possession of approximately 51 grams of heroin when he was arrested on March 16, 2021, after fleeing from law enforcement officers in a high-speed car chase. According to court documents, Johnson is responsible for distributing at least 2.835 kilograms of heroin, which is over 28,000 potentially lethal, 0.1-gram “doses” of the drug. Johnson was on state parole following his conviction on drug charges during his involvement in the drug-trafficking conspiracy. Co-defendant Roderick A. Hughes, 50, was sentenced on Oct. 10, 2023, to 17 years in federal prison without parole after pleading guilty to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy and to possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. According to court documents, Hughes is responsible for distributing at least 461.9 grams of heroin, which is over 4,600 potentially lethal, 0.1-gram “doses” of the drug. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Hughes’s apartment on Feb. 23, 2021. Officers found a silver revolver on the kitchen table. They also found a loaded Glock 9mm handgun on a nightstand in the bedroom, a Stoeger 9mm handgun and a Jennings Bryco 9mm handgun on a shelf in the bedroom, and a black safe under the bed that contained 23.4 grams of heroin and $4,703 in cash. Officers also searched the garage and found three plastic bags with a total of 96.3 grams of heroin hidden in the rafters. Co-defendant Franklin T. Hicks Jr., also known as “Frankie,” 43, of St. Joseph, pleaded guilty on May 31, 2022, to his role in the drug-trafficking conspiracy and two counts of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 1, 2023. Hicks was arrested outside of a hotel in St. Joseph on Jan. 22, 2021. He was in possession of 35.8 grams of heroin and $2,687 in cash. Officers also found a loaded Rock Island Armory .380-caliber handgun under the driver’s seat of his car and a Ruger 9mm handgun in the glovebox. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Byron H. Black. It was investigated by the St. Joseph, Mo., Police Department, the Buchanan County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.


title: Suffolk Man Pleads Guilty to $2M Medicare Fraud

component: USAO - Virginia, Eastern

body_text: NORFOLK, Va. – A Suffolk man pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud health insurance programs of more than $2 million through fraudulent claims for braces and other medical equipment. According to court documents, in 2017, Julian Latty, 40, and his co-conspirator Jordan Thomas Broome, 37, of Texas, formed a Virginia Beach company called Beach Medical Suppliers LLC (Beach Medical). They registered Beach Medical to receive Medicare reimbursements in 2018. For the next two years, Latty and Broome used Beach Medical to fraudulently bill Medicare for over $4 million in reimbursements for durable medical equipment, which included back braces and knee braces. They obtained the personally identifiable information of Medicare beneficiaries then paid doctors to sign prescriptions for braces that the beneficiaries did not need. Between December 4, 2018, and October 7, 2020, Beach Medical billed Medicare for durable medical equipment reimbursement for approximately 2,025 beneficiaries who had no prior relationship with the doctor who signed the prescription. Beach Medical also billed other health care benefit programs, such as Medicaid and Tricare, for fraudulent claims. The investigation started when beneficiaries complained to Medicare that they were receiving braces in the mail that they had never requested. In December 2019, Latty and Broome met with an attorney Beach Medical had retained who advised them that its operations were likely illegal. However, they continued to submit fraudulent reimbursements until federal authorities executed a search warrant at Beach Medical’s offices in September 2020. In March 2023, Broome was sentenced to 66 months of imprisonment for his role in the conspiracy. Latty is scheduled to be sentenced on February 29, 2024. He faces a maximum penalty of 5 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; Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office; and Maureen R. Dixon, Special Agent in Charge of the Office of Inspector General for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), made the announcement after U.S. District Judge Elizabeth W. Hanes accepted the plea. Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Gantt is prosecuting the case. A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:23-cr-121.


title: Diamond Bar Man Pleads Guilty to a Civil Rights Charge for Driving His Car into a Crowd of Demonstrators at a ‘Stop Asian Hate’ Rally

component: USAO - California, Central

body_text: LOS ANGELES – A Diamond Bar man pled guilty today to a federal criminal civil rights charge for disrupting a “Stop Asian Hate” rally in March 2021 by running a red light and driving through a crowded crosswalk of peaceful demonstrators while shouting racial slurs and epithets. On the third day of trial, Steve Lee Dominguez, 57, pleaded guilty to one felony count of bias-motivated interference with federally protected activities. “The right to political expression is a bedrock principle of this nation,” said United States Attorney Martin Estrada. “Mr. Dominguez’s decision to attack a peaceful rally meant to raise awareness of anti-Asian hate was both unlawful and un-American. My Office will remain steadfast in our commitment to safeguard civil rights against those who would seek to undermine our constitutional rights.” “The FBI safeguards the civil rights of all Americans, including the constitutionally protected right of free speech, but that right ends where violence begins,” said Donald Alway, the Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office. “We will continue to work with our partners to address these types of violations, where individuals who were simply calling for an end to violence were senselessly attacked.” “Hate has no place within Los Angeles County, and those that commit acts of hate and interfere with the civil rights of others will be held accountable,” said Los Angeles County Sheriff Robert Luna. “The Sheriff’s Department is focused on combatting hate crimes and hate incidents in our diverse communities and increasing our outreach efforts to better understand the needs of the victims and educate the public on how to report such crimes.” According to a plea agreement filed in federal court, a “Stop Asian Hate” rally occurred on March 21, 2021 in Diamond Bar. The rally was to raise awareness about the increase in hate crimes and hate incidents against members of the Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) community both locally and nationally – including the murders of six Asian American women five days earlier in Atlanta. A group of rally participants assembled at the intersection of Diamond Bar Boulevard and Grand Avenue, carrying American flags and large signs in support of their cause. The demonstrators peacefully gathered and lawfully crossed the streets using the marked pedestrian crosswalk when they had the right of way. During the rally, Dominguez was driving a black Honda Civic sedan and was stopped at a red light at the intersection. Dominguez yelled, “Go back to China!” and other racial slurs and profanities at the demonstrators. He then deliberately drove his car through the intersection’s crosswalk at the red light, made an illegal U-turn into oncoming traffic, and cut off the route of several rally participants lawfully crossing the street, primarily women and a young child. One of the victims was an Asian woman carrying a sign that read, “Stop Asian Hate.” Another victim was a minor Black female rally participant who carried a sign that read, “End the Violence Against Asians.” Another person who was cut off in the crosswalk was a 9-year-old child, and Dominguez’s car narrowly missed her and other victims. No injuries were reported. Dominguez then pulled his car over, got out of the car and continued to yell racial epithets – including the n-word – and threats at the demonstrators. He then called the police, identified himself as “John Doe” and falsely reported to police that the rally participants were blocking the street and he had to run a red light “because they were about to trample my car,” according to evidence presented at trial. He also requested that police “get some control out” at the intersection. United States District Judge Otis D. Wright II scheduled a May 6, 2024 sentencing hearing, at which time Dominguez will face up to one year in prison pursuant to the terms of the plea agreement. Dominguez has remained free on a $30,000 bond since his initial arrest in May 2022 and will remain on bond until sentencing. The FBI investigated this matter. The Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department initially responded to the scene and assisted in this matter. Assistant United States Attorneys Frances S. Lewis of the Public Corruption and Civil Rights Section and Suria M. Bahadue of the Criminal Appeals Section are prosecuting this case. Any member of the public who has information related to this incident or other hate crimes is encouraged to call the FBI’s Los Angeles Field Office at (310) 477-6565 or report tips online at https://tips.fbi.gov .


title: Jackson Man Sentenced to 21 Months in Prison for  Illegal Possession of a Firearm

body_text: Jackson, Miss. – A Jackson man was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to court documents, on March 24, 2022, Shermaine Monteil Burse, 27, was found in possession of a firearm by FBI agents and Jackson Police officers after an officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in which Burse was a passenger. A firearm was found at Burse’s feet on the floorboard. Burse has prior felony convictions out of Hinds County for possession of a stolen weapon and receiving stolen goods. As a convicted felon, Burse is prohibited by federal law from possessing a firearm. Burse was indicted by a federal grand jury and subsequently pled guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm. U.S. Attorney Todd W. Gee and Special Agent in Charge Jermicha Fomby of the Federal Bureau of Investigation made the announcement. The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Jackson Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Terrill and Matt Allen prosecuted the case. This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.