Former little league softball coach charged with producing child pornography and possessing child pornography

HONOLULU, Hawaii – Rian Harold Ishikawa, 42, of Kailua, was charged on June 29, 2020 by federal complaint with one count of producing child pornography and two counts of possessing child pornography.

U.S. Attorney Kenji M. Price for the District of Hawaii announced that the complaint alleges that the defendant has been and is currently involved with managing and/or coaching youth sports teams, and was the agent and President of Kainalu Little League, Inc. The complaint further alleges, in substance and in part, that the defendant was the subscriber of an email account that contained recorded videos and photographs of what appears to be prepubescent children in a bathroom.

“My office will continue to protect our keiki by vigorously pursuing and prosecuting those who sexually exploit them. The allegations in the complaint, if proven beyond a reasonable doubt, will trigger a penalty that sends an unequivocal message to those who exploit the precious keiki who hold our future in their hands,” said U.S. Attorney Price.

“This case is particularly troubling in light of the defendant’s access to young people,” said Lucy Cabral-DeArmas, acting Special Agent in Charge for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Honolulu. “HSI will continue to work closely with our federal and local law enforcement partners to investigate those who sexually exploit our young people and ensure that these predators feel the full weight of the law.”

The charges in the complaint are merely allegations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Craig Nolan.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s 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.

Leader of Latin Kings Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy and Drug Conspiracy Charges

Defendant was second in command of Massachusetts Latin Kings Leadership

BOSTON – The former second in command of the Massachusetts Almighty Latin King and Queen Nation (“Latin Kings”) pleaded guilty today to racketeering and drug conspiracy charges.

Jorge Rodriguez, a/k/a “King G,” 32, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy, and conspiracy to distribute cocaine and cocaine base. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Rya W. Zobel scheduled sentencing for Oct. 16, 2020. Rodriguez was arrested and charged in December 2019, at which time he was the second in command of Massachusetts for the Latin Kings, and had held leadership positions in the New Bedford Chapter.

The Latin Kings are a violent gang comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Latin Kings adhere to a national manifesto, employ an internal judiciary and use a sophisticated system of communication to maintain the hierarchy of the criminal organization. As alleged in court documents, the gang uses drug distribution to generate revenue, and is motivated by a desire to further its influence and to protect its turf from rival gangs.

In addition to his statewide leadership of the Latin Kings in Massachusetts, Rodriguez also held a leadership position in the New Bedford Chapter. In New Bedford, Rodriguez ran a vast cocaine base distribution network that used multi-unit apartment buildings known as “trap houses” to distribute the narcotics. Members of the Latin Kings dealt drugs in the trap houses, obtaining their supply of cocaine base from Rodriguez. As detailed in court filings in the case, evidence developed during the course of the investigation included multiple recordings of Rodriguez cooking cocaine base, directing violence against rival gang members, meting out discipline, and handling firearms used to protect the Latin Kings’ drug distribution network.

In December 2019, a federal grand jury issued an indictment alleging racketeering conspiracy, drug conspiracy and firearms charges against 62 leaders, members and associates of the Latin Kings. Rodriguez is the first defendant to plead guilty in the case.

Pursuant to the terms of the plea agreement, Rodriguez faces 15 – 25 years in prison and three years of supervised release. The RICO conspiracy charge provides for a sentence of up to 20 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Depending on the drug quantity, the drug trafficking conspiracy and distribution charges provide for a sentence of up to 20 years, 40 years, or life; a minimum of three, four or five years of supervised release; and fines of $1 million, $5 million and $10 million. The charge of felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition provides for a sentence of up to 10 years, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division; Commissioner Carol Mici of the Massachusetts Department of Correction; and New Bedford Police Chief Joseph C. Cordeiro made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was also provided by the FBI North Shore Gang Task Force and the Bristol County and Suffolk County District Attorney’s Offices.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard and Mark Grady of Lelling’s Criminal Division are prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The remaining defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Pittsburgh Man Charged with Arson for Setting Fire to Unmarked Police Vehicle during May 30 Pittsburgh Protests

PITTSBURGH, Pa. – A federal criminal complaint was filed today charging Devin Montgomery, 24, of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, with malicious destruction of property using fire or explosives. During a May 30, 2020 gathering of protesters, Montgomery allegedly set fire to an unmarked Pittsburgh Bureau of Police (PBP) vehicle near the Fifth Avenue entrance to PPG Paints Arena.

"Setting a police car on fire is a federal crime, and one that we will prosecute to the fullest extent of the law," said U.S. Attorney Scott W. Brady. "This is part of our commitment to protect First Amendment rights. Peaceful protesters embody those rights and have the full protections of federal law. The people who choose to disrupt those protests with violence and destruction will face prosecution."

"The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives continues to work diligently toward securing public safety," said acting Special Agent in Charge John Schmidt, ATF Philadelphia Field Division. "Setting fire to a law enforcement vehicle is never acceptable, even in these unprecedented times. The arrest of Devin Montgomery will undoubtedly send a message that violent acts will be investigated and prosecuted. ATF, with the assistance of our local and state partners in this case the Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, is dedicated to protecting the public from violent crime."

"The vast majority of protests and protesters in Pittsburgh over the past month have been peaceful, and we are committed to respecting peaceful protesters' First Amendment rights," Pittsburgh Public Safety Director Wendell Hissrich said. "To the small group of people who choose to hijack the overall peaceful message of these protests: You will be held accountable. We will review all evidence and vigorously investigate any and all violence committed at protests through the Damage Assessment and Accountability Taskforce (DAAT). Simply put: Violence will not be tolerated, by us or any of our law enforcement partners at the local, state and federal levels."

The criminal complaint alleges that on the afternoon of May 30, 2020, a public protest was occurring in downtown Pittsburgh in the area of PPG Paints Arena following the death of George

Floyd of Minneapolis Minnesota. At around 5:15 p.m., a crowd was marching down Washington Place toward Fifth Avenue. Upon reaching PBP Unit 3F04, numerous individuals began to inflict damage and access the interior of the vehicle. One of the first individuals to approach Unit 3F04 was a black male wearing a #84 Antonio Brown Steelers jersey, blue jeans and dark colored shoes. The man also wore a dark colored bandana type of face mask covering the lower portion of his face as well as a black beanie on his head. Shortly thereafter, the man can be seen on video next to the rear passenger door, standing next to a person dressed in all black whose face is covered with a mask, and who is wearing a lighter colored backpack. The man and the masked individual interact briefly with each other, as they each appear to be igniting items in their hands. Within seconds, the man in the Antonio Brown jersey and the masked individual each toss an ignited item into the rear passenger compartment of Unit 3F04, which results in an interior fire that eventually spreads and destroys the vehicle. The man can be seen quickly moving away from the unmarked Unit after setting it on fire. Other video footage from later that afternoon and evening captures the man in the Antonio Brown jersey walking in the downtown area.

On June 17, 2020, the PBP posted several photos of the man in the Antonio Brown jersey on the PBP Facebook page with a request for members of the public to come forward with information to assist in identifying him. On June 18, 2020, the PBP received tips from two separate individuals. Both callers identified the man in the Antonio Brown jersey as Devin Montgomery.

Investigators then obtained a Pennsylvania Department of Motor Vehicles driver’s license photograph of Devin Montgomery. In late June, ATF Special Agents identified a possible girlfriend of Devin Montgomery and conducted surveillance on her residence. ATF Special Agents observed an individual dressed in green pants and a black short sleeve t-shirt exit this residence with his face clearly exposed. This individual was positively identified as Devin Montgomery.

The PBP receive federal grant funds in excess of $10,000 as required under the federal arson statute.

Montgomery was taken into federal custody this afternoon in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. He made an initial appearance by video teleconference today before Chief Magistrate Judge Maureen P. Kelly in U.S. District Court in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

If convicted, Montgomery faces a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison, and a maximum fine of $250,000.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney is prosecuting this case.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police.

The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

New Britain Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Illegal Gun Transaction

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that JULIO MARTINEZ, 41, of New Britain, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Shea in Hartford to 46 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in the illegal purchase of two firearms.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in 2018, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force began investigating Ricardo Reyes, also known as “Rick the Ruler,” a member of the Los Solidos street gang who was distributing fentanyl, heroin, cocaine and crack in the area of Park Street and Hungerford Street in Hartford.  During the investigation, law enforcement conducted multiple controlled purchases of narcotics from Reyes.  Court-authorized wiretaps confirmed that Reyes was distributing narcotics to numerous customers, and identified individuals who supplied drugs to Reyes and associates who sold drugs on his behalf.  Intercepted communications also revealed that Norman Klosek of Enfield was acting as a “straw purchaser” of firearms for Reyes.  Klosek, who was addicted to heroin/fentanyl, purchased and then illegally sold, or “loaned,” a total of 47 handguns to support his drug addiction. 

On April 22, 2019, multiple intercepted communications revealed that Reyes and Carlos Soto, also known as “Puchie,” were brokering a gun deal where Martinez arranged to purchase two firearms from Reyes and Soto for $800.  On that date, Reyes picked up Klosek in Enfield and drove to a licensed gun dealer in Newington where Klosek, who had a valid state firearm permit, purchased two handguns.  Klosek then provided the guns to Reyes.  After the purchase, law enforcement observed Reyes, Soto and Martinez at a location on High Street in New Britain.  Martinez then left the High Street location and traveled by car to a nearby grocery store.  Investigators believed that Martinez was in possession of the two firearms, but Martinez, in fact, had traveled to the grocery store to use an ATM to retrieve cash for the firearms purchase.  Investigators stopped and searched Martinez as he attempted to exit the store.  The search revealed $850 in cash.  Later that day, investigators conducted a traffic stop of Reyes’ vehicle in New Britain and seized the two firearms.

Martinez, Reyes and several co-defendants were arrested on federal criminal complaints on June 17, 2019.  On that date, investigators seized two additional guns that had been purchased by Klosek.

On June 27, 2019, a grand jury Hartford returned a 32-count indictment charging Martinez, Reyes, Soto and 12 associates with various narcotics trafficking and firearm possession offenses.

Martinez has been detained since his arrest.  On December 18, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to unlawfully possess firearms by a felon.

Martinez’s criminal history includes multiple firearm and drug convictions and, in April 2019, he was on special parole for stealing a firearm during a burglary.

Reyes, Klosek and Soto have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.

To date, approximately 10 of the 47 guns purchased by Klosek have been recovered by law enforcement.  One gun was recovered after it was used in a shooting in Hartford on August 22, 2019.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.  The Hartford Police Department’s Vice and Narcotics Division and the New Britain Police Department have provided valuable assistance to the investigation.  This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian P. Leaming.

Former Colorado Judge Pleads Guilty to Obstructing Task Force Investigation of a Drug Trafficking Organization

A former Colorado judge pleaded guilty today to obstructing a federal task force investigation of a large-scale drug trafficking organization.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Jason R. Dunn of the District of Colorado and Special Agent in Charge Michael Schneider of the FBI’s Denver Field Office made the announcement.

Ryan Kamada, 41, of Windsor, Colorado, pleaded guilty to one count of obstruction of proceedings before a department or agency of the United States before U.S. District Judge William J. Martinez of the District of Colorado.  A sentencing hearing is scheduled for Dec. 4, 2020, before Judge Martinez.

According to admissions Kamada made in connection with his guilty plea, beginning in or around October 2018, a federal task force was investigating an international drug trafficking organization that was distributing large quantities of cocaine throughout northern Colorado.  One of the members of the organization was a drug trafficker who lived in Greeley, Colorado.  Kamada had known the drug trafficker since high school.

Beginning in January 2019, Kamada served as a District Court judge of the 19th Judicial District of Colorado.  While serving as the “on call” judge one evening in April 2019, Kamada received a phone call from a task force officer who was seeking a search warrant related to the investigation into the drug trafficker.  The task force officer pointed out to Kamada that he was associated with the drug trafficker on social media.  As a result, Kamada recused himself from the case.  But early the next morning, Kamada called his best friend, Geoffrey Chacon, who had also known the drug trafficker since childhood.  Kamada told Chacon that law enforcement was “watching” the drug trafficker’s house, car and phone, and instructed Chacon to “stay away” from the drug trafficker.  Chacon subsequently informed the drug trafficker about the warrant and Chacon modified his own behavior in order to avoid law enforcement attention.

The information that Chacon provided to the drug trafficker also caused the drug trafficker to change his pattern of conduct and substantially interfered with the task force’s investigation.  After Chacon relayed the information that he received from Kamada to the drug trafficker, Chacon destroyed records of his communications with the drug trafficker in order to impair efforts by law enforcement to tie Chacon to the drug trafficker.  In November 2019, Chacon pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of destruction of records with the intent to obstruct a federal investigation.

The FBI’s Denver Field Office is investigating the case, with substantial assistance from the Greeley Police Department.  Trial Attorney John Taddei of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan Fields of the District of Colorado are prosecuting the case.

Maplewood Man Charged With Arson Of St. Paul High School

United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal criminal complaint against MOHAMED HUSSEIN ABDI, 19, charging him with arson. ABDI, who was arrested on June, 29, 2020, made his initial appearance earlier today before Magistrate Judge Hildy Bowbeer in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.

According to the allegations in the complaint, on May 28, 2020, the Gordon Parks High School in St. Paul, Minnesota, suffered damage due to fire and vandalism. Surveillance cameras inside the school captured footage of ABDI and another individual intentionally setting a fire in the cafeteria. The footage shows ABDI reaching through a broken glass door and pouring a clear liquid from a white container on the floor of the cafeteria. ABDI then entered the cafeteria and poured more clear liquid onto the floor and into a trashcan. ABDI ignited a fire in the trashcan using a liquid-soaked garment. The footage shows ABDI running from the building as flames and black smoke erupt from the trashcan.

The ATF and FBI urge the public to report suspected arson, use of explosive devices, or violent, destructive acts associated with the recent unrest. Anyone with information specifically related to business fires in the Twin Cities can call 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), email ATFTips@atf.gov or submit information anonymously via ReportIt.com. In addition to fires, the FBI is looking for people who may have incited or promoted violence of any kind. Anyone with digital material or tips can call 1-800-CALLFBI (800-225-5324) or submit images or videos at FBI.gov/violence.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted jointly by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the FBI, the St. Paul Police Department, and the Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melinda A. Williams and Emily A. Polachek.

The charges contained in the complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

 

Defendant Information:

MOHAMED HUSSEIN ABDI, 19

Maplewood, Minn.

Charges:

• Arson, 1 coun

Buffalo Man Pleads Guilty To Drug Conspiracy

BUFFALO, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Kevin Miller, 30, of Buffalo, NY, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard J. Arcara to conspiring to distribute, and distribution of, controlled substances. The charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $1,000,000 fine.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joseph M. Tripi and Meghan E. Leydecker, who are handling the case, stated that between March 2016, and September 25, 2018, the defendant sold cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and heroin in the City of Buffalo and surrounding suburbs. During that time, Miller utilized residences at 45 Easton Avenue and 507 E. Ferry Street in Buffalo to store and distribute the drugs. Also during the same time period, the defendant possessed various firearms, including semi-automatic pistols he posed with online using social media.

On March 31, 2016, New York State parole officers conducted a search at Miller's parole residence after receiving evidence that the defendant violated his curfew. During the search, parole officers located and seized three digital scales with residue; two bags of ammunition; a quantity of crack cocaine; and a cell phone. Buffalo Police were called and Miller was arrested.

On September 25, 2018, the ATF and Buffalo Police Department executed federal search warrants at 45 Easton Avenue, and on a vehicle used by the defendant. As investigators prepared to enter the residence, they observed an object that was thrown from an upper window at the rear of the house. The object thrown from the window was loaded revolver. During a search of the upper apartment, three vials of marijuana, $411 cash, a large number of empty glass vials, 17 cellular telephones, and four scales were seized. The clothing Miller was wearing in the August 17, 2018, social media video depicting him with a firearm was also located inside the apartment. In addition, a scale and a loaded semi-automatic firearm were found in the basement.

The plea is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge John B. Devito, New York Field Division; the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood; and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision, under the direction of under the direction of Acting Commissioner Anthony J. Annucci. 

Sentencing is scheduled for October 8, 2020, at 12:30 p.m. before Judge Arcara.

Mexican man sentenced for transporting $250K worth of meth

LAREDO, Texas – A 48-year-old resident of Nuevo Laredo, Mexico, has been ordered to federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 32 kilograms of meth, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick.

Ramces Chavez-Gomez, pleaded guilty Jan. 7.

Today, U.S. District Judge Marina Garcia Marmolejo ordered Chavez-Gomez to serve a total of 72 months in prison. Not a U.S. citizen, he is expected to face deportation proceedings following his sentence. At the hearing, the court considered statements regarding Chavez-Gomez’s training and practice as a doctor in Mexico. In handing down the sentence, the court noted it was a shame Chavez-Gomez was trained to help and heal people, yet chose to bring poison into our country.

On Oct. 5, 2019, Chavez-Gomez attempted to drive his SUV through the Laredo North Border Patrol (BP) checkpoint on Interstate 35. During initial inspection, a K-9 alerted to the presence of narcotics in the rear of the vehicle. An x-ray scan then revealed a hidden compartment near its rear seats.

Authorities further inspected the vehicle and found the compartment under the carpeting in the cargo area. There, they found 20 bundles of meth that weighed approximately 32 kilograms.

The drugs have an estimated street value of more than $250,000.

Chavez-Gomez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul Harrison prosecuted the case.

Ex-Husband of ‘Real Housewives of New Jersey’ Star and Lucchese Crime Family Soldier Indicted for Assault and Other Crimes

NEWARK, N.J. – The ex-husband of one of the stars of the Bravo television show “The Real Housewives of New Jersey,” and an organized crime soldier were arrested today on charges of planning and carrying out an assault of the Bravo star’s current husband in exchange for a lavish wedding reception, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito announced.

Thomas Manzo, 55, of Franklin Lakes, New Jersey, and John Perna, 43, of Cedar Grove, New Jersey, are each charged by indictment with committing a violent crime in aid of racketeering activity and conspiracy to commit a violent crime in aid of racketeering activity. The indictment also charges Perna – identified in the indictment as a soldier in the Lucchese Crime Family – with conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud related to the submission of a false car insurance claim, and Manzo with falsifying and concealing records related to the federal investigation of the violent crime. Both defendants will make their initial appearances today by videoconference before U.S. Magistrate Judge Cathy L. Waldor.

According to the documents filed in this case and statements made in court:

In the spring of 2015, Manzo, one of the owners of the Brownstone Restaurant in Paterson, New Jersey, allegedly hired Perna to assault his ex-wife’s then-boyfriend in exchange for a deeply discounted wedding reception for Perna held at the upscale venue. Perna, who is a “made man” in the Lucchese Crime Family with his own crew, worked with his associates to plan and carry out the assault, which took place in July of 2015. In exchange for committing the assault, Perna held a lavish wedding reception at Manzo’s restaurant for a fraction of the price, which was paid by another Lucchese associate and close friend of Manzo’s. The wedding and reception, held in August 2015, were attended by approximately 330 people, and included many members of the Lucchese Crime Family.

Separately, prior to the date that Perna was scheduled to begin serving a state prison sentence in January 2016, he falsely reported that his Mercedes Benz was stolen and destroyed. Perna filed an insurance claim for the destruction of the Mercedes Benz in order for the balance due on the Mercedes Benz. However, Perna had staged the vehicle theft and arson with other members of the Lucchese Crime Family.

The charge against Manzo for allegedly falsifying and concealing records related to the federal investigation of the July 2015 assault relates to federal grand jury subpoenas that were sent to the Brownstone Restaurant seeking documents related to the August 2015 Perna wedding reception. Manzo failed to turn over relevant documents in response to those subpoenas and deliberately submitted a false document regarding the reception to the government, along with a false certification. In November 2019, agents with the FBI executed a search warrant at the Brownstone Restaurant and seized invoices for the August 2015 Perna wedding reception and other relevant documents that were not previously turned over.

The violent crime in aid of racketeering activity count against both defendants carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The conspiracy to commit the violent crime in aid of racketeering activity count against both defendants carries a maximum potential penalty of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud count against Perna carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years of in prison and a $250,000 fine. The falsifying and concealing records related to a federal investigation count against Manzo carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

U.S. Attorney Carpenito credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Joe Denahan in Newark, with the investigation leading to the charges and arrest.

The government is represented by Senior Litigation Counsel V. Grady O’Malley and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kendall Randolph of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Organized Crime and Gangs Unit in Newark.

The charges and allegations in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Sending Threatening Mail to Miami Federal Courthouse

MIAMI – Today, a federal judge in South Florida sentenced an inmate to three years in federal prison for mailing threatening communications to a Miami federal courthouse. Freddy Velazquez, 47, mailed the threats from a state prison in Monticello, Florida, where he was serving a sentence on a prior conviction.      

Ariana Fajardo Orshan, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida and George L. Piro, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Miami Field Office, made the announcement.  

According to court documents, Velasquez, while in state prison, wrote and mailed a letter to the Wilkie D. Ferguson Federal Courthouse in downtown Miami. Among other things, the letter said that, “[i]nside this letter, you [will] find ‘chemicals’ that are going to kill many of you…I hate all of you pigs and hope you all die. I fight you all till you all die.” Along with the letter, Velasquez put a powdery white substance inside the mailing envelope that he addressed to the courthouse.  Velazquez put his name and prison location on the return address section of the envelope.      

On February 15, 2019, a federal courthouse employee opened Velasquez’s envelope.  When the employee saw the white powder -- a possible biological substance -- the employee triggered the emergency protocols that are in place to handle such situations. Occupants of the courthouse evacuated the building.  Four federal law enforcement agencies and a City of Miami Police Department Hazardous Materials (Hazmat) Unit responded to the potential biological threat. For about eight hours, law enforcement shut down traffic on several blocks around the downtown Miami courthouse. The courthouse employee who opened the envelope and discovered the powder underwent a decontamination process inside a biohazard tent, followed by a visit to a local hospital.

Testing showed that the white powder was not hazardous or a biological material.  Additional  testing found that the powder was consistent  with detergent.  When asked about the mailing, Velazquez admitted that he wrote the letter and addressed the envelope, that the letter correctly described his feelings, and that he put white powder in the envelope to trigger an emergency response from law enforcement. 

On February 4, 2020, Velazquez pled guilty to mailing a threatening communication, a violation of federal law. 

U.S. Attorney Fajardo Orshan commended the efforts of the FBI, United States Marshals Service, Department of Homeland Security, Federal Protective Service, and City of Miami Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bertila Fernandez and Andrea Goldbarg prosecuted this case. 

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or on http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov.

Nottingham Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Crime

          CONCORD - Clifford A. Bullock, 71, of Nottingham, pleaded guilty in federal court on Friday to transportation of child pornography, United States Attorney Scott W. Murray announced today.

             According to court documents and statements made in court, in April of 2019, law enforcement officers learned that Microsoft had detected potential child exploitation materials on a Microsoft OneDrive account with an IP address that resolved to Bullock’s address.  Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Bullock’s residence on August 5, 2019.  Pursuant to the search warrant, officers seized a computer, cellular phones and numerous items of digital media that contained a large collection of child pornography.  Bullock admitted to using the internet to view and save child pornography involving girls.  He further admitted to uploading and storing files on OneDrive, including child pornography images. 

              Bullock is scheduled to be sentenced on October 5, 2020.

            “Protecting children from exploitation is a high priority for the U.S. Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Murray. “Child pornography crimes are serious offenses with significant and long term consequences.  We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who produce, possess or transport child pornography.”

            “With the recent overall increase in internet activity among the public, HSI special agents are more committed than ever to pursuing those who download and distribute child exploitation images online,” said Michael Shea, acting Special Agent In Charge, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Boston. “It is through the support and hard work of our partners in the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, the Nottingham Police Department, the Exeter Police Department, and the U.S. Attorney for New Hampshire that Bullock has been brought to justice.”

            “The dedicated law enforcement professionals from the NH ICAC Task Force and HSI will not stop searching for those predators who are producing, trading and collecting this graphic material, many of whom are also sexually assaulting children and causing them irreparable harm,” said Lieutenant John W. Peracchi, Commander of the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.

             This matter was investigated by the New Hampshire Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) with assistance from the Nottingham Police Department and Exeter Police Department.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Cam Le.

             In February 2006, the Department of Justice introduced Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse.  Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices, 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 identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

Nashville Man Facing Federal Firearms Charge After Pointing Gun At Police Officers

Convicted Felon on Parole for Attempted First Degree Murder

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – June 29, 2020 – Jotez Anderson, 27, of Nashville, has been charged with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Don Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee. 

A criminal complaint obtained Friday, alleges that on June 3, 2020, two officers with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department responded to a call on 18^th Avenue, North, regarding a person with a gun.  When the officers arrived, they saw Anderson and another individual outside the home and in a heated argument.  The officers heard someone yell “he’s got a gun,” and then saw Anderson run toward the rear of the house.  While the officers were pursuing Anderson, they noticed a firearm in his hand.  During this encounter and on two separate occasions, Anderson pointed the firearm at each officer, before being fired upon by both officers. 

Anderson continued to evade the officers until a K-9 arrived and after being deployed, Anderson surrendered and was found to have a gunshot wound to the hand.   A bloody, Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol with an extended magazine was recovered from the house where Anderson fled. 

Anderson had previously been convicted of the offense of attempted first degree murder in Davidson County Criminal Court and received a sentence of 15 years.  He was on parole at the time of this incident. 

If convicted, Anderson faces up to 10 years in prison. 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department investigated this Case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert McGuire is prosecuting the case. 

A criminal complaint is merely an accusation.  The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Jamaican National Sentenced to 40 Months in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Smuggle Cocaine Aboard a Cargo Ship

United States Attorney Brandon Fremin announced that United States District Court Judge Brian A. Jackson sentenced Stephano Walkers, age 25, of Jamaica, to serve 40 months in federal prison following his conviction for conspiracy to bring or possess cocaine on board of a vessel arriving in the United States.

According to admissions made as part of his guilty plea, Walters was arrested on February 13, 2019 by Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) agents that were conducting surveillance of cargo ships arriving into the United States.  Walters had smuggled over nine kilograms of cocaine onto a Jamaican cargo ship called the “Bulk Pangea” that was bound for the United States.  After docking in the United States, Walters then transported the cocaine to Baton Rouge.  There, he was arrested by HSI agents while attempting to deliver the cocaine to members of a drug trafficking organization. 

U.S. Attorney Fremin stated, “Aliens who come into the United States with the intent of committing crimes pose a serious threat to the safety of our citizens.  Our office is committed to working with our federal, state, and local partners to apprehend, convict, and remove this menace from our country.  I want to commend our prosecutor and our partners at HSI who worked diligently throughout this investigation and prosecution.

“HSI is committed to holding all those involved in transnational drug smuggling accountable,” said Jere T. Miles, Special Agent in Charge for HSI New Orleans.  “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Louisiana to keep our communities safe.”

This matter was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Homeland Security Investigations and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Peter J. Smyczek.

Roanoke Man Pleads Guilty to Distributing Heroin

ROANOKE, VIRGINIA – James Robert Banks, a Roanoke man responsible for distributing between one and three kilograms of heroin throughout the Roanoke area in 2019, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court to federal drug distribution charges.  United States Attorney Thomas T. Cullen announced the guilty plea this afternoon.

Criminal charges against Banks arose from his sale of heroin on specific dates in August and November 2019.  According to court documents, law enforcement agents arranged for the controlled purchase of approximately $6,000 worth of heroin from Banks on two occasions. In both instances, Banks sold the heroin from a commercial auto repair facility on Centre Avenue in Roanoke, owned by his father.  In connection with his guilty plea to distribution charges, Banks has acknowledged distributing between one and three kilograms of heroin in the Roanoke area in 2019.   

Investigation of this case was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and member agencies of the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force (HIDTA), including the City of Roanoke Police Department, Virginia State Police, Roanoke County Police Department, and Salem Police Department.  Additional support was provided by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.  Assistant United States Attorneys Kari Munro and Dan Bubar prosecuted the case for the United States.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  Through PSN, a broad spectrum of law enforcement groups use evidence-based techniques to identify and address violent and related crime in local communities with the aim of focusing law enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders.  As part of this strategy, the PSN initiative involves partnerships with locally-based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

Baxley pharmacist sentenced to four years in federal prison for conspiracy involving healthcare fraud, opioids

Defendant will be required to repay nearly $2 million in fraudulent claims

BRUNSWICK, GA:  A pharmacist who owned and operated Fulghum Pharmacy in Baxley, Ga. was sentenced today to 48 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to a conspiracy that involved health care fraud and illegal distribution of opioids.

Ray Ashley Dixon, R.Ph., 42, of Baxley, Ga., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood after pleading guilty to conspiracy, said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. In addition, Dixon will be on supervised release for three years following completion of his prison term.

There is no parole in the federal system.

“Pharmacists are entrusted with significant responsibility in our healthcare system,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “Illegally distributing drugs is a major violation of that trust, and pharmacists who do so will find, like Ray Dixon, that there is no tolerance for such crimes in the Southern District.”

According to court documents and information presented during the sentencing hearing, Dixon distributed opioids, including oxycodone and hydrocodone, to several individuals without a legitimate prescription issued by a physician in the usual course of professional practice. Upon inspection by agents from the Drug Enforcement Administration, Fulghum Pharmacy could not account for more than 10,000 units controlled substances. Dixon, through his pharmacy, also was a major source of opioids for patients of notorious convicted pill-mill operator Dr. Frank Bynes, Jr., distributing in excess of 110,000 units of opioids and other controlled substances during a 15-month period.

In addition to his drug distribution, Dixon created fake prescriptions for expensive medications and then billed insurance programs, including Medicare Part D plans and Medicaid, for those medications, despite the fact that the medications were neither prescribed nor dispensed. According to information presented during the sentencing hearing, Ray Dixon’s fraud amounted to more than $1.8 million over four years, which he will be required to pay back as restitution. Ray Dixon also agreed to forfeit cash, vehicles, and investment accounts as part of his agreement with the government.

Robert J. Murphy, the Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Atlanta Field Division commented, “This pharmacist spun a web of deception by illegally distributing prescriptions opioids and other controlled substances. Such careless behavior allows for substances to be diverted and sold on the black market with no true measure of accountability. This sentencing will discourage other negligent healthcare providers from engaging in unlawful criminal behavior.”  

“Creating fake prescriptions for expensive medications and then fraudulently billing them to Medicare and Medicaid is an appalling act,” said Derrick L. Jackson, Special Agent in Charge at the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General in Atlanta.  “Today’s sentencing should act as a fair warning to anyone who might be contemplating similarly illegal conduct.”

“A primary means of addressing opioid-addiction in this country is to ensure that only those with legitimate medical needs receive such drugs in the first place,” said Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr. “Mr. Dixon ignored his important gatekeeping function and did so for his own benefit. We commend U.S. Attorney Christine’s Office and believe that the sentence Mr. Dixon received sends a strong message that this will not be tolerated.”

“Like so many other communities, Appling County has been overcome with the struggles associated with drug abuse,” said Appling County Sheriff Mark Melton. “Specifically, the illicit pill market has hit us hard, causing many of our citizens to follow a path of destruction in which they will never return. In the law enforcement arena, we expect to deal with these problems from the corrupt drug cartels and their networks. However, we never expect it to come from our professional providers such as Mr. Dixon, who became greedy and took advantage of the system and caused many to be affected and destroyed by his unacceptable behavior.”

Patients can be the first line of defense in stopping health care fraud. If you receive an Explanation of Benefits (EOB) with medications or services that you did not receive, please contact the healthcare fraud hotline maintained by the Department of Health and Human Services at 1-800-HHS-TIPS or oig.hhs.gov/fraud/report-fraud/.

Ray Dixon was investigated by a team comprised of federal, state, and local law enforcement. U.S. Attorney Christine lauded the cooperation by the investigative team, which was comprised of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the Georgia Attorney General’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit, and the Appling County Sheriff’s Office.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jonathan A. Porter and J. Thomas Clarkson prosecuted Dixon, with significant assistance by Assistant U.S. Attorney Xavier A. Cunningham on asset recovery issues and Georgia Assistant Attorney General Jim Mooney on Medicaid fraud issues.

McLoud Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing a Fully Automatic Machinegun

OKLAHOMA CITY – Christopher Steven Ledbetter, 29, of McLoud, Oklahoma, has pled guilty to unlawfully possessing a fully automatic machinegun, announced U.S. Attorney Timothy J. Downing.

According to an affidavit in support of a criminal complaint, in March 2020, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) learned that Ledbetter might be in possession of a fully automatic machinegun.  The FBI then reviewed publicly available materials on the internet associated with Ledbetter that depicted Ledbetter on multiple occasions shooting what appeared to be a fully automatic machinegun.  The affidavit further indicates on June 4, 2020, the FBI encountered Ledbetter in Oklahoma City driving a 2017 Jeep Wrangler vehicle.  In that vehicle, the FBI discovered a fully automatic AK-47 style carbine machinegun.

Federal law prohibits the possession, except under limited circumstances, of a fully automatic machinegun as defined in the National Firearms Act.  The affidavit further indicates that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives searched its federal licensing system.  That search determined that Ledbetter does not have the required licenses to possess a machinegun.

Today, Ledbetter pleaded guilty to possessing the automatic machinegun in violation of federal law.  At sentencing, Ledbetter faces a maximum penalty of ten years in prison, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000.00 fine.  Sentencing will take place in approximately 90 days.

This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Oklahoma City Field Office, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Dallas Field Division, and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, along with other law enforcement partners.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matt Dillon and Jessica Perry are prosecuting the case.

Aurora Man Arrested On Federal Civil Disorder Charge For Allegedly Throwing An Explosive Device At A Naperville Police Vehicle

CHICAGO — An Aurora man was arrested today on a federal civil disorder charge for allegedly throwing an explosive or incendiary device at a Naperville Police Department vehicle during a protest earlier this month.

                CHRISTIAN REA threw the explosive device in the proximity of the police vehicle, and the officers that were standing near the vehicle, which subsequently detonated causing an explosion, according to a criminal complaint and affidavit filed in U.S. District Court in Chicago.  Panic ensued in the crowd of protesters, with people running in all directions, the complaint states.

The complaint charges Rea, 19, with one count of civil unrest.  Federal authorities arrested Rea Thursday morning.  An initial federal court appearance was held on June 25, 2020, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Beth Jantz.

The complaint and arrest were announced by John R. Lausch, Jr., United States Attorney for the Northern District of Illinois; Emmerson Buie, Jr., Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the FBI. Valuable assistance was provided by the Naperville Police Department, the Aurora Police Department, and the FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force. The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Barry Jonas.

“Federal law enforcement will use all tools available to hold accountable individuals who interfere with law enforcement officers performing their duties during a civil disorder,” said U.S. Attorney Lausch.  “We will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to apprehend and charge individuals engaging in violent crime.”

The public is reminded that a complaint is not evidence of guilt.  The defendant is presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial at which the government has the burden of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  The charge in the complaint is punishable by a maximum sentence of 5 years in federal prison.  If convicted, the Court must impose a reasonable sentence under federal statutes and the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines.

Eastern Iowa Nurse Sentenced to Federal Prison for Stealing Patient’s Pain Medication

Took Pain Meds from an Unconscious Patient’s IV

An intensive care unit nurse who stole fentanyl and morphine, both pain medications, from an unconscious patient by withdrawing the drugs from his IV line while he was in the hospital’s intensive care unit in December 2018 was sentenced today to more than @ years in federal prison.

Kelly Kristin Postel, age 43, from Anamosa, Iowa, received the prison term after a February 4, 2020 guilty plea to two counts of acquiring morphine and fentanyl on multiple occasions from October 2018 through December 2018.

In a plea agreement, Postel admitted that between October 2018 and December 2018, she obtained fentanyl and morphine by getting an excess amount of those pain meds from the hospital pharmacy and administering only the prescribed amount of medication to patients.  She then used the rest of the pain medication while she was still working as a registered nurse caring for patients in the hospital.  Postel also admitted that, on December 10, 2018, she was caring for patients in the intensive care unit at a Cedar Rapids, Iowa, hospital.  On that day she went into an unconscious patient’s room, used a syringe to remove fentanyl and another drug from the patient’s IV line, and then used the substances in the employee restroom at the hospital while she was still on duty.  Postel admitted she was impaired in her judgment and in being able to do routine nursing tasks after taking the pain medications, even though she was still caring for patients.    

Postel was sentenced in Cedar Rapids by United States District Court Judge C.J. Williams.  Postel was sentenced to 4 months’ imprisonment and fined $5500.  She was ordered to pay restitution for the drugs she stole, costs of prosecution and forfeit her nursing license.  She must also serve a 1-year term of supervised release after the prison term.  There is no parole in the federal system.

“Health care providers who steal drugs from the patients they care for place those patients and the medical system at risk.  This office always stands ready to protect those who are unlawfully exploited by others,” said United States Attorney Peter E. Deegan, Jr.  “We especially thank the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations and the Iowa Medicaid Fraud Control Unit for their outstanding work investigating this case.”

“Health care professionals who steal needed medications from patients put patients at increased risk of harm and disrupt the legal drug supply chain,” said Special Agent in Charge Charles L. Grinstead, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations Kansas City Field Office. “We will continue to protect the public health and bring to justice health care professionals who take advantage of their unique position and compromise their patients’ health and comfort by tampering with needed drugs.”

Postel was released on the conditions previously set and is to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on a date yet to be set.

The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Patrick J. Reinert and investigated by the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Iowa Department of Inspections and Appeals and the United States Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations.

Felon Arrested in Stolen Vehicle Sentenced to 57 Months in Prison for Possessing a Firearm

St. Louis, Missouri – Ramon Thompson, 28, of St. Louis, Missouri was sentenced to 57 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.  He appeared in federal court today before U.S. District Judge Audrey G. Fleissig. 

According to the plea agreement, on July 19, 2019, St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department  Officers responded to reports of a stolen Chrysler 300 traveling near Belt Avenue and Natural Bridge. The Officers initiated a curb stop of the stolen vehicle, and made contact with two male subjects, including Ramon Thompson in the passenger’s seat. Thompson refused the Officers’ verbal commands to exit the vehicle. Instead, Thompson pushed the driver out of the driver's seat, climbed over the center console toward the driver's seat, and attempted to put the vehicle's transmission into drive. Thompson was ultimately arrested after a physical struggle, and the vehicle was disabled.  In the course of being arrested, a 9mm semiautomatic firearm fell from Thompson’s waistband.

This case was investigated by the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

Brevard County Man Sentenced To Eighteen Years In Federal Prison For Enticement Of A Minor

Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Gregory Clive Burke (57, Mims) to 18 years in federal prison for enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Burke, a registered sex offender who was on state probation after a previous conviction for possession of child pornography, was indicted by a grand jury on December 20, 2018. He had pleaded guilty on November 21, 2019. 

According to court documents and evidence presented at the sentencing hearing, Burke initially came to the attention of law enforcement when his state probation officer found that he was in possession of a cellphone with internet access, which was a violation of the terms of his probation. A forensic review of Burke’s cellphone revealed that he was posing as a 10-year-old girl, “Emma Dixon,” and had posted a profile on Snapchat and YouTube. In addition, the forensic review revealed that “Emma Dixon” was communicating with several 12 to 13-year-old boys and girls online.

One of the children that Burke had been communicating with was a 12-year-old boy who lived in another state. During the communications, the child sent Burke images and videos of himself, including videos of his genitalia, and videos depicting him masturbating. 

“This investigation is another example of the FBI’s efforts in safeguarding children from sexual predators,” said Michael McPherson, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI-Tampa Field Office. “We share this commitment with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners so that together we can identify and rescue victims and ensure their abusers are brought to justice.”

Sheriff Wayne Ivey stated, "I applaud this partnership and the agencies involved who are devoted to protecting children from these very dangerous sexual predators. Through their outstanding efforts, an individual who actively participated in the exploitation of our children has been removed from our communities.” 

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Shawn P. Napier and Ilianys Rivera Miranda.

Jeffersonville Man Sentenced to 78 Months for Firearm Offenses and Drug Trafficking

LEXINGTON, Ky. - A Jeffersonville, Kentucky, man, Ryan Keith Herndon, 30, was sentenced on Friday to 78 months in federal prison, by U.S. District Judge Karen Caldwell, for selling a firearm to a convicted felon, possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and distributing a mixture of heroin, valeryl fentanyl, fentanyl, and methamphetamine.           

According to his plea agreement, Herndon admitted that on May 9 and 10 he sold two firearms to a Confidential Informant (CI), who Herndon knew to be a convicted felon at the time of the transactions. Herndon further admitted that he was also a convicted felon and prohibited from owning a firearm. Herndon also admitted to arranging the purchase of and providing various narcotics mixtures to another CI, on May 21 and 22, 2019.

Under federal law, Herndon must serve 85 percent of his prison sentence and will be under the supervision of the U.S. Probation Office for three years, upon his release.

Robert M. Duncan, Jr., United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Shawn Morrow, Special Agent in Charge, ATF, Louisville Field Division, and Chief Terry Landrum, Mt. Sterling Police Department, jointly made the announcement.

The investigation was directed by ATF, with the assistance of the Gateway Area AHIDTA Task Force. The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Francisco Villalobos.

Hartford Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Narcotics Distribution and Firearm Possession Offenses

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DYZHAE RICHARDSON, 23, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2019, after a spate of gun violence in Hartford, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, DEA, Hartford Police Department and other law enforcement agencies initiated an investigation targeting gang-related drug distribution and associated violence in north Hartford.  During the investigation, investigators made two controlled purchases of heroin/fentanyl from Richardson in August and September 2019.  Richardson was on state probation at the time of these drug sales.

Richardson was arrested on September 13, 2019.  On that date, a court-authorized search of his residence revealed a loaded Taurus G2C 9mm handgun, additional loose rounds of 9mm ammunition, approximately 100 wax folds of heroin, a quantity of crack cocaine and approximately $2,500 in cash.  A search of Richardson’s person also revealed approximately $1,000 in cash.

Richardson’s criminal history includes felony convictions for narcotics and firearm possession offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

Richardson has been detained since his arrest.  On January 21, 2020, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack”), and one count possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

Boise Man Sentenced to 6 Years for Distributing Methamphetamine

BOISE - Benjamin Michael Elgethun, 34, of Boise, was sentenced in U.S. District Court to 72 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Elgethun to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Elgethun pleaded guilty to the charge on January 29, 2020.

According to court records, Elgethun was a methamphetamine dealer in the Boise area between March and June 2019. Law enforcement used a confidential informant to purchase methamphetamine from Elgethun on multiple occasions. A federal grand jury indicted Elgethun on June 13, 2019. A search warrant was later executed on Elgethun’s residence where officers found more drugs and a stolen firearm. Elgethun has a lengthy criminal history including a prior conviction for aggravated battery and trafficking in cocaine. At the time he committed this federal offense, Elgethun was on parole.

This case was investigated by the Meridian Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Drug Enforcement Administration, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.

This indictment was the result of a joint investigation by the Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking, weapons trafficking and money laundering organizations, and those primarily responsible for the nation’s illegal drug supply. Program participants include Federal Bureau of Investigation; Drug Enforcement Administration; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation; and U.S. Marshals Service.

This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office and the Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Board.  The Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Board is a collaboration of local law enforcement drug task forces and prosecuting agencies dedicated to addressing regional drug trafficking organizations that operate in Ada, Canyon, and Malheur County.

Memphis Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Heroin and Fentanyl Resulting in Death

MEMPHIS, TN – Dwayne Tullous, 57, has been sentenced to 240 months in federal prison for distribution of heroin and fentanyl resulting in death. D. Michael Dunavant, U.S. Attorney announced the sentence today.

According to information presented in court, on July 30, 2018, victim Larry House was found deceased in his Lakeland, Tennessee residence from a heroin and fentanyl overdose. Investigators from the Shelby County Sheriff's Office and the United States Postal Inspection Service responded to the scene and conducted an investigation which revealed that the victim had been visited by a drug dealer, Tullous, earlier that evening. Tullous sold the victim various amounts of black tar heroin and fentanyl. A few hours later, the victim died from using the heroin and fentanyl distributed to him by the defendant, Tullous.

Investigators with the Postal Inspection Service determined that Tullous received packages from the Los Angeles, California area to a house in Cordova. Upon further investigation and after execution of a search warrant, investigators recovered black tar heroin, fentanyl, a firearm, and oxycodone pills from Tullous' residence. The heroin and fentanyl found at Tullous' residence was wrapped in the same packaging as the substances found at the residence of the victim. An autopsy revealed that the cause of victim's death was a heroin and fentanyl overdose.

On March 12, 2020, Tullous pled guilty, admitting he caused the death of Larry House by distributing heroin and fentanyl to him in July 2018.

On June 25, 2020, U.S. District Court Judge Mark S. Norris sentenced Tullous to 20 years imprisonment followed by 3 years supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant said, "Distribution of illegal narcotics is NOT a victimless crime, and poses an immense threat to public safety. The drug seller, at every level of distribution, is at the root of the pervasive cycle of drug abuse. Measured thus by the harm it inflicts upon the addict, and, through him, upon society as a whole, drug dealing of heroin and fentanyl in its present epidemic proportions is a grave offense of high rank. In order to prevent needless addiction, injury, violence, and death in our communities, we must act with urgency to stop and punish drug dealers that deliver this deadly poison to citizens in West Tennessee. This case demonstrates the significant penalty that we will use to hold dealers accountable, deter others from dealing death to our citizens, and save lives. We commend the outstanding investigative work of our federal and local law enforcement partners, and we hope this sentence will achieve some measure of justice for the House family."

Heroin and fentanyl are extremely dangerous substances that have caused the deaths and non-fatal overdoses of thousands of people every year. Fentanyl is 50 times more potent than heroin and a dosage less than a grain of table salt is enough to cause death. This year in Shelby County, over 200 people have died and over 2,000 people have suffered a non-fatal overdose as a result of the continued availability and distribution of heroin and fentanyl in our community. If you or someone you know is suffering from substance abuse or addiction, please call the Tennessee Redline for help at 1-800-889-9789, or visit the Memphis Area Prevention Coalition at https://memphisprevention.org for information and resources.

This case was investigated by the Shelby County Sheriff's Office and the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).

Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph Griffith prosecuted this case on behalf of the government. This case was part of the Heroin Initiative in collaboration with the Shelby County District Attorney General’s Office.

Man Sentenced to Prison for Child Exploitation Crimes

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – A man with citizenship in Lebanon and the United States was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for child exploitation offenses.

According to court documents, George A. Nader, 61, admitted that he arranged to transport a 14-year-old boy from Europe to Dulles International Airport for purposes of illegal sexual conduct in early 2000. Nader had met the boy in Prague, Czech Republic, and later brought him to his residence in Washington, D.C. Nader also admitted that, in September 2012, he possessed or accessed with intent to view video images of child sexual abuse while he was in New York.

Nader had previously been convicted of transporting child pornography into the Eastern District of Virginia in 1991.

In addition to his prison sentence, Nader was ordered to pay a fine of $25,000, and $150,000 in restitution to a minor victim.

G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and James A. Dawson, Special Agent in Charge, Criminal Division, FBI Washington Field Office, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge Leonie M. Brinkema. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jay V. Prabhu prosecuted the case. Additional assistance was provided by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa L. Chong, Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Young, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Laura Fong.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

This case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, composed of FBI agents and local, state, and federal partners.

The United States Attorney’s Offices for the Eastern District of New York, the District of Columbia, and the Northern District of California provided valuable assistance to the investigation, as did the Czech National Police, the Pacific Grove Police Department in California, and the FBI’s San Francisco and New York Field Offices.

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. 1:19-cr-201.

Hartford Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Narcotics Distribution and Firearm Possession Offenses

John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that DYZHAE RICHARDSON, 23, of Hartford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton to 24 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for narcotics distribution and firearm possession offenses.

Pursuant to the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the court proceeding occurred via videoconference.

According to court documents and statements made in court, in July 2019, after a spate of gun violence in Hartford, the FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force, DEA, Hartford Police Department and other law enforcement agencies initiated an investigation targeting gang-related drug distribution and associated violence in north Hartford.  During the investigation, investigators made two controlled purchases of heroin/fentanyl from Richardson in August and September 2019.  Richardson was on state probation at the time of these drug sales.

Richardson was arrested on September 13, 2019.  On that date, a court-authorized search of his residence revealed a loaded Taurus G2C 9mm handgun, additional loose rounds of 9mm ammunition, approximately 100 wax folds of heroin, a quantity of crack cocaine and approximately $2,500 in cash.  A search of Richardson’s person also revealed approximately $1,000 in cash.

Richardson’s criminal history includes felony convictions for narcotics and firearm possession offenses.  It is a violation of federal law for a person previously convicted of a felony offense to possess a firearm or ammunition that has moved in interstate or foreign commerce.

Richardson has been detained since his arrest.  On January 21, 2020, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, fentanyl and cocaine base (“crack”), and one count possession of a firearm by a previously convicted felon.

The FBI’s Northern Connecticut Gang Task Force includes members of the Hartford Police Department, East Hartford Police Department, Connecticut State Police and Connecticut Department of Correction.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael J. Gustafson as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make neighborhoods safer for everyone.

U.S. Attorney Appoints First Missing And Murdered Indigenous Persons Coordinator For Utah

SALT LAKE CITY – U.S. Attorney John W. Huber announced today the appointment of Brian Speelman as the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Persons (MMIP) coordinator in Utah.

As Utah’s first MMIP coordinator, Speelman will gather reliable data to identify MMIP cases connected to Utah; conduct outreach with tribal communities to assist in the creation and implementation of community action plans; and coordinate with tribal, local, state, and federal law enforcement in the development of protocols and procedures for responding to and addressing MMIP cases.

Speelman, who will coordinate with tribal communities and serve victims throughout Utah, will work in the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Salt Lake City.

U.S.  Attorney General William Barr launched a national strategy in November to address missing and murdered Native Americans. As a part of the initiative, the Department of Justice made funding available to hire MMIP coordinators in 11 states, including Utah.

“American Indian and Alaska Native people suffer from unacceptable and disproportionately high levels of violence, which can have lasting impacts on families and communities. Native American women face particularly high rates of violence, with at least half suffering sexual or intimate-partner violence in their lifetime. Too many of these families have experienced the loss of loved ones who went missing or were murdered,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “This important initiative will further strengthen the federal, state, and tribal law enforcement response to these continuing problems.”

“My office is fully committed to our tribal partners in Utah, and this new position will add to our combined capabilities. The position is designed to help serve crime victim families who have suffered from missing or murdered family members. It will also enable my office to better collaborate with other groups in Utah working on MMIP issues,” U.S. Attorney Huber said today.  “Brian Speelman brings decades of experience, and is committed to working with our tribal communities and other stakeholders to reduce violent crime and deliver justice.”

Prior to joining the U.S. Attorney’s Office, Speelman worked as an FBI agent, retiring as a Supervisory Special Agent in 2011.  Following his retirement, he was appointed Director of the Utah Statewide Information and Analysis Center (SIAC), which was recognized in 2015 with the Governor’s Award for Excellence in Public Services.  Most recently, Speelman worked as an associate with the Argonne National Laboratory focusing on homeland security issues.  He is a graduate of the University of Maryland.

The strategy announced in November by DOJ has three parts:

Establish MMIP coordinators: The Department of Justice is investing resources to hire 11 MMIP coordinators in 11 states to serve with all U.S. Attorney’s offices in those states, and others who request assistance. The states are Alaska, Arizona, Montana, Oklahoma, Michigan, Utah, Nevada, Minnesota, Oregon, New Mexico, and Washington. MMIP coordinators will work closely with federal, tribal, state and local agencies to develop common protocols and procedure for responding to reports of missing or murdered indigenous people.

Specialized FBI Rapid Deployment Teams: The strategy will bring needed tools and resources to law enforcement. Upon request by a tribal, state, or local law enforcement agency, the FBI will provide expert assistance based upon the circumstances of a missing indigenous persons case. FBI resources and personnel, which may be activated to assist with cases include: Child Abduction Rapid Deployment (CARD) teams, Cellular Analysis Support Teams, Evidence Response Teams, Cyber Agents for timely analysis of digital evidence/social media, Victim Services Division Response Teams, and others. MMIP coordinators will assist in developing protocols.

Comprehensive Data Analysis: The department will perform in-depth analysis of federally supported databases and analyze data collection practices to identify opportunities to improve data and share the results of this analysis with our partners in this effort.

More broadly, the MMIP Initiative will involve a coordinated effort by more than 50 U.S. Attorneys on the Attorney General’s Native American Issues Subcommittee (NAIS), the FBI, and the Office of Tribal Justice, with support from the Office of Justice Programs (OJP) and the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW).

Mariah Ferry sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for kidnapping and brutal beating of two victims suspected of stealing drugs and money

            ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Mariah Ferry, 22, of Albuquerque was sentenced today in federal court in Santa Fe, New Mexico to 30 years in prison on charges related to the kidnappings and brutal assaults of two victims suspected of stealing drugs and money from the home of co-defendant, Chase Smothermon, 32, of Albuquerque. 

            Ferry pleaded guilty on Feb. 13 to kidnapping and conspiracy to kidnap, resulting in the death of J.S.  According to Ferry’s plea agreement and other public court records, Smothermon, Ferry, and a third co-defendant, Jose Torrez, 48, of Albuquerque, and other co-conspirators took part in a scheme to retaliate against two victims who they believed stole marijuana from Smothermon’s home where he resided with Ferry.  On Aug. 8, 2017, Torrez alerted Smothermon that J.S. was present at Torrez’s home.  Smothermon went to Torrez’s home to retaliate against J.S. and try to get his drugs and money back.  Ferry drove Smothermon to Torrez’s home where Smothermon and co-conspirators brutally beat J.S. with a baseball bat and the butt of a gun.

            Smothermon and co-conspirators then put J.S. in the trunk of Ferry’s car and bound J.S.’s hands, ankles, and mouth with tape.  Ferry drove Smothermon and J.S. to another co-conspirator’s home where J.S. died shortly thereafter. Ferry and Smothermon then mutilated J.S.’s body in a shed.  Later the same day, Smothermon contacted M.T. under a ruse that Smothermon wanted to buy marijuana from M.T.  When M.T. arrived at Smothermon’s home, Smothermon, Ferry and others bound, gagged and assaulted M.T. for hours. After several hours, two other co-conspirators escorted a bound and badly beaten M.T. out of Smothermon’s home and drove him to another location where M.T. was held overnight before M.T. was released.  On Aug. 9, 2017, Ferry drove Smothermon and another co-conspirator to a rural area in New Mexico where they buried J.S.’s body in a shallow grave.

            Smothermon pleaded guilty on Jan. 24 to kidnapping and conspiracy to kidnap, resulting in the death of J.S.  Torrez pleaded guilty on Feb. 13 to conspiracy to kidnap, resulting in the death of J.S. Smothermon and Torrez are in custody awaiting sentencing.  They face up to life in prison for each offense.  However, under the terms of their plea agreements, should the sentencing court accept their plea agreements, Smothermon will receive a sentence between 40 to 60 years and Torrez will receive a sentence of 14 years. 

            The DEA and FBI investigated this case with assistance from the Albuquerque Police Department and Second Judicial District Attorney’s Office.  The Narcotics section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting the case.

Three South Dakota Men Sentenced in Meth Conspiracy

United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that three South Dakota men convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance have been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Darryl Anthony Randle, age 37, was sentenced on June 8, 2020, to 132 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  Manuel Joseph Lopez, age 33, was sentenced on August 5, 2019, to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  Dustin Wayne McGhee, age 31, was sentenced on September 23, 2019, to 120 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release.  All three defendants were ordered to pay $100 to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Randle, Lopez, and McGhee were indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on February 5, 2019.  Randle pled guilty on March 24, 2020; Lopez pled guilty on August 5, 2019; and McGhee pled guilty on June 26, 2019.

Beginning on an unknown date and continuing until on or about November 14, 2018, in the District of South Dakota and elsewhere, Randle, Lopez, and McGhee did knowingly and intentionally combine, conspire, confederate, and agree together, with others known and unknown to the Grand Jury, to knowingly and intentionally distribute a mixture and substance containing 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.

This case was investigated by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer D. Mammenga prosecuted the case.

All defendants were immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service following their respective sentencing.

Federal Inmate Indicted on Charges of Attempting to Make Threats Against Federal Agents

BOSTON – An inmate at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) Devens was indicted yesterday in connection with attempting to make threats against federal agents and to cause an explosion at a federal courthouse.

Nathan Danforth, 34, was indicted on one count of making threats to murder federal law enforcement officers and one count of threats to damage or destroy a building using fire or explosive. Danforth will appear in federal court in Worcester at a later date.

According to the charging documents, in July 2019, Danforth allegedly attempted to mail a letter from FMC Devens to a federal court in Florida, threatening to kill the agents who previously investigated him and to cause an explosion at the courthouse. In February 2020, Danforth allegedly sent an email to the Department of Justice Office of Inspector General threatening that the President would die and federal buildings would be “blown up.”    

Each charge provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. FMC Devens Special Investigation Section provided valuable assistance to the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Noto of Lelling’s Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Virginia Man Sentenced for Operating Interstate Prostitution Ring

BOSTON – A Virginia man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for his role in operating a long-running interstate prostitution ring. 

Yoon Kim, 39, of Haymarket, Va., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge William G. Young to 20 months in prison and two years of supervised release. In November 2018, Kim pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to persuade, induce, entice, or coerce individuals to travel in interstate commerce to engage in prostitution, and one count of conspiracy to engage in money laundering.

On March 15, 2018, Kim was charged and arrested with co-defendants Taehee Kim, a/k/a “Hyunsook Kim” (Yoon Kim’s wife), of Haymarket, Va.; Susan Bashir, a/k/a “Susan Redmon,” a/k/a “Susan Redmond,” of Stone Mountain, Ga.; Jineok Kim, of Watertown, Mass; and Kyung Song, of Lexington, Mass.

From at least 2013 until March 2018, Kim and his co-defendants operated an interstate prostitution network with multiple brothels in high-end apartments in Cambridge, Mass.; Atlanta, Ga.; and eastern Virginia. They advertised appointments with Asian women primarily on three websites. The women advertised on the websites were moved from city to city within the network, at Taehee Kim’s direction, working as prostitutes for the organization. Yoon Kim and co-conspirators collected a portion of the cash earnings from the women working at the brothels and funneled the money into accounts controlled by Yoon Kim and his wife. Co-conspirators also used U.S. Postal money orders and the mail to transport and launder proceeds from the prostitution network. Yoon Kim rented several of the brothel locations, including multiple apartments in and around Cambridge, managed the websites advertising the prostitution network, and handled other aspects of the business.

Taehee Kim, Jineok Kim, Susan Bashir, and Kyong Song previously pleaded guilty. Taehee Kim is pending sentencing; Jineok Kim was sentenced in April 2019 to three months in prison; Susan Bashir was sentenced in May 2019 to 45 days in prison; and Kyung Song was sentenced in March 2019 to one year of home confinement.

United States Andrew E. Lelling; Michael Shea, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in Boston; Joseph W. Cronin, Postal Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Boston Field Division; and Cambridge Police Commissioner Branville G. Bard Jr. made the announcement. Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. D’Addio of Lelling’s Civil Rights Enforcement Team prosecuted the case. 

Worcester Man Indicted on Firearms Charges

BOSTON – A Worcester man was indicted yesterday in connection with brandishing a loaded sawed-off shotgun in an apartment while arguing with teenaged residents in December 2019.

Steven Dillon, 36, was indicted yesterday on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm. Dillon was previously charged by criminal complaint in June 2020.

According to charging documents, on Dec. 25, 2019, Dillon brandished a loaded sawed-off shotgun in an apartment while arguing with teenaged residents. Police found the shotgun and ammunition in a bedroom used by Dillon, who was previously convicted of a felony punishable by more than one year in prison and therefore prohibited from possessing a firearm.

The charging statute provides for a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, three years of supervised release and a fine of $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling; Kelly D. Brady, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, Boston Field Division; and Worcester Police Chief Steven M. Sargent made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kristen Noto of Lelling’s Worcester Branch Office is prosecuting the case.

The details contained in the charging documents are allegations. The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

Maple Heights man charged with damaging by means of fire a parking lot attendant booth during May 30 demonstrations

Justin Herdman, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Ohio, announced today that Timothy James Goodner, age 19, of Maple Heights, has been charged with maliciously damaging or destroying by means of fire or explosion any building or property.  According to the criminal complaint, Goodner was involved in an act of arson concerning the Shaia’s Parking Lot attendant booth on 1242 West 3rd Street on Saturday, May 30^th, 2020.

“Today’s arrest demonstrates the continued resolve of federal law enforcement to identify, arrest, and prosecute those individuals responsible for the widespread damage in our downtown on May 30,” said U.S. Attorney Justin Herdman. “This defendant is alleged to have committed arson during the riot that followed an otherwise peaceful, Constitutionally-protected assembly of our neighbors.  Let this arrest serve as a reminder to all those who were engaged in similar crimes on that day - we are going to find you, we are going to arrest you, and we are going to hold you accountable.”

According to the criminal complaint, Goodner and other persons gathered around an attendant booth in the West 3rd Street parking lot during the demonstrations on May 30^th. Images and videos released from that day show a suspect setting fire to cardboard boxes and paper towels and then placing them inside the attendant booth. Goodner is then observed contributing to the fire by placing boxes and other combustible products inside the both to help accelerate the burning.

Afterwards, the Cleveland Division of Police released images and video of suspects committing various criminal acts from the demonstrations to the media. Goodner was identified via these images from numerous anonymous tips by his clothing and a visible tattoo. 

Goodner was arrested and booked into the Cuyahoga County Jail on June 22, 2020 by the Ohio State Highway Patrol on an active warrant obtained by the Cleveland Police Department for aggravated arson.

A charge is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is entitled to a fair trial in which it will be the government's burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

This case is being investigated by the Cleveland Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Cleveland Division of Police. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney John Hanley. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Ohio would like to acknowledge and thank the Cleveland FBI, Cuyahoga County Prosecutor’s Office and the Ohio State Highway Patrol for their assistance with this matter. 

Illegal possession of ammunition results in maximum federal prison sentence for previously convicted felon

Defendant is a member of violent criminal street gang

BRUNSWICK, GA:  A gang member and convicted felon will spend the next decade in federal prison after sentencing in U.S. District Court.

Wilbert Lee Stephens Jr., a/k/a “Lil Bill,” a/k/a “Wild Bill,” 28, of Morrow, Ga., was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Lisa Godbey Wood to 120 months in prison – the maximum for the offense, said Bobby L. Christine, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia. Stephens pled guilty to an Information charging him with Possession of Ammunition by a Convicted Felon. After completion of his incarceration, Stephens will be required to serve three years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

“As a convicted felon with a long history of violent offenses, Wilbert Stephens was prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition,” said U.S. Attorney Christine. “His history of sociopathic behavior amply demonstrates that he shouldn’t be anywhere near firearms – or free society.”

According to court documents and testimony, Stephens was pulled over for speeding in excess of 100 mph by a Georgia State Patrol trooper who smelled the odor of marijuana in the vehicle. A subsequent search discovered nearly a pound of marijuana, an Ak-47 rifle on the back seat, and ammunition in Stephens’ pocket.

Stephens, who was on state probation, was arrested and later indicted related to a criminal drug trafficking conspiracy. During the investigation he was determined to be a member of the Gangster Disciples criminal street gang.

“Stephens had a chance to turn his life around while on probation but instead chose to commit further crimes, proving that he has not learned from his prior convictions,” said Chris Hacker, Special Agent in Charge of FBI Atlanta. “He will now go back to prison where he can no longer be a threat to society.”

This investigation took place under the umbrella of Project Guardian, the Department of Justice’s signature initiative to reduce gun violence and enforce federal firearms laws.

The case was investigated by the FBI, the Georgia State Patrol and the Glynn County Police Department, and prosecuted for the United States by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Kirkland.