Prince George’s County Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Bank Robbery Charge

 Admits Committing the Bank Robbery While on Supervised Release for a Previous Federal Conviction

Greenbelt, Maryland – Donnell Duane Berry, age 44, of Forestville, Maryland, pleaded guilty today to a federal bank robbery charge.  Berry also admitted that he committed this crime while on supervised release for a previous federal conviction.  

The guilty plea was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer C. Boone of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and Interim Chief Hector Velez of the Prince George’s County Police Department.

According to his guilty plea, on September 4, 2019, Berry and two other individuals committed the robbery of a bank in Lanham, Maryland.  Berry, who had previously committed a robbery at this same location, wrote the demand note and provided it to his co-defendant, who entered the bank and provided the demand note to the teller, while Berry and the third individual waited in the getaway car.  In fear for her life, the victim teller gave the co-defendant over $4,000 in cash along with a GPS tracker.  The co-defendant took the cash and fled the bank, getting into the waiting getaway car.

As detailed in the plea agreement, a short time later police located the getaway car, which was disabled in an intersection approximately five miles from the bank.  Berry and the other robbers attempted to run away from police, but were all subsequently apprehended.  Officers recovered the following items from a bin underneath the deck of a house near the intersection: the hat worn by the co-defendant during the robbery; the co-defendant’s wallet; and $3,050 in cash, which still had the bank’s GPS tracker in it.  Near the wood line several yards east of the intersection officers also recovered a black and gray backpack with Berry’s identification and credit cards in it.

Berry and the government have agreed that, if the Court accepts the plea agreement, Berry will be sentenced to between 144 and 204 months in federal prison.  U.S. District Judge George J. Hazel has scheduled sentencing for December 16, 2020 at 10:00 a.m. 

United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI and the Prince George’s County Police Department for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin B. Pulice and Dwight Draughon, who are prosecuting the case.

Risk Assessments for Tribal Person Re-entering Society

 

Thursday, September 10th 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. EDT

Presented by Gwendolyn Redhair of the Salt River Pima-Maricopa Indian Community of Phoenix, Arizona, this webinar will provide tribal probation officers and those managing caseloads of individuals where identifying and prioritizing risk and need factors is demanded, information on how the use of screening tools create more successful probation outcomes. Ms. Redhair's presentation will provide relevant knowledge regarding risk assessments and how the use of such tools can generate long-lasting impacts for those on probation. The learning objectives of this presentation include:

1.Will learn how screening tools conducted early in the justice process can guide decisions made throughout the system.

2.Acknowledge the importance of coordination with federal, state, and tribal partners to support information sharing and support system.

3.Identify factors so that appropriate referral(s) based on the resources available in your community and work with the treatment providers, reaching out to other sources.

This is a unique opportunity to build on Reentry and dive into how risk assessments can have an impact for those on probation.

REGISTER HERE.

Sincerely,

The CTAS Team

 

 

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Columbia Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Attempting To Entice a Minor for Illicit Sex

 JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Columbia, Missouri, man was sentenced in federal court today for attempting to entice a minor, who was actually an undercover law enforcement officer, to engage in criminal sexual activity.

Jeffrey Charles Johnson, 52, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Roseann Ketchmark to 15 years in federal prison without parole. The court also sentenced Johnson to 10 years of supervised release following incarceration.

On Jan. 21, 2020, Johnson pleaded guilty to attempting to entice a minor for illicit sex. Johnson admitted that he responded to a post on a website frequented by prostitutes, asking another person to help him find a juvenile female for a sexual encounter. A detective with the Boone County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department then assumed the identity of a single mother who was willing to allow Johnson to have sex with her 13-year-old daughter.

Johnson communicated with undercover law enforcement officers on several occasions and arranged to meet the mother and daughter at a Columbia, Mo., motel on Aug. 7, 2019. Johnson was arrested when he arrived at the motel.

According to court documents, Johnson has previously engaged in this type of conduct. In September 2012, Johnson’s former wife discovered a bag containing numerous VCR tapes. On two of the tapes, Johnson discusses his desire to have sexual relations with a minor. On one of the tapes, Johnson states he would pay $500 to have sexual relations with a 15-to-16-year-old child. On another tape, Johnson speaks with a woman who tells him she has a 13-year-old and a 14-year-old child in mind and could get him a child as young as 10. Johnson tells the woman 10 years old is too young, and he would prefer a child 12-to-13 years old. The woman and Johnson discuss a price of $800 for the children. It is unknown whether Johnson followed through with the commercial sex transaction in 2012. 

As part of this investigation, images depicting child pornography were located on a tower computer hard drive with file names suggesting they were downloaded using peer-to-peer file-sharing software.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ashley S. Turner. It was investigated by the Boone County Cyber Crimes Task Force and the FBI. 

Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."

Teacher Sentenced to Five Years in Federal Prison for Traveling to Have Sex with Student and Selling Adderall

HUNTINGTON, W.Va. – A former high school Spanish teacher from Huntington was sentenced to federal prison for traveling across state lines to have sex with one of her students and selling Adderall, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. Amy Adkins, 30, was sentenced to five years in prison for travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct and distribution of Adderall. Adkins also was ordered to complete 20 years of supervised release and to register as a sex offender.

“Adkins abused her position of authority as a teacher to betray the trust of this student and his family,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “Parents expect their kids to be safe from predatory behavior at school, not preyed upon.”

Adkins previously admitted that while she was a Spanish teacher at Fairland High School in Proctorville, Ohio during the 2017 to 2018 academic year, she communicated frequently with one of her young male students on social media. This student was under 16 years old at the time. On April 7, 2018, Adkins admitted that she drove from her home in Huntington to Proctorville, where she picked up her underage student and brought him back to Huntington with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct. Ultimately, Adkins had sex with the victim that day at her home in Huntington.

In addition to traveling with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, Adkins admitted that from September 2017 to May 2018 she frequently sold a portion of her Adderall prescription to her friends and acquaintances. Specifically, Adkins admitted that she sold one close friend five pills of Adderall on March 9, 2018. Adderall is a Schedule II controlled substance.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), the West Virginia State Police and the Lawrence County, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services conducted the investigation.

United States District Judge Robert C. Chambers imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Kristin F. Scott handled the prosecution.

The case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:20-cr-00044.

Operation X-Nation: New York Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug Crime

 BLUEFIELD, W.Va. – A New York man pled guilty today for his participation in a drug trafficking organization (DTO) in Mercer County, announced United States Attorney Mike Stuart. James Walker, 43, pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine, oxymorphone, oxycodone and hydromorphone. Walker was charged as a result of a long-term, multi-state investigation known as Operation X-Nation. As part of the plea agreement, Walker also agreed to forfeit $150,000, which represents proceeds generated from his drug trafficking activity. 

“The diversion of prescription opioids has devastated our southernmost counties,” said United States Attorney Mike Stuart. “We are holding pill pushers like Walker accountable through criminal prosecution and forfeiture of illegal proceeds.” 

Walker admitted that between August 2017 and August 31, 2019, he participated in a DTO operating in Mercer County. During this time, Walker worked with other members of the DTO to distribute prescription pills and cocaine in and around Mercer County. More specifically, Walker admitted to facilitating drug transactions with people he now knows were working with law enforcement as confidential informants, who would call him to purchase drugs. Walker would then direct the informant to one of several trailers he owned in different trailer parks in Mercer County. Once the informants arrived at the trailer park, Walker would then direct them to meet with a particular member of the DTO to purchase the drugs. Walker and other members of the DTO also had telephone calls intercepted by law enforcement. In these calls Walker and others were discussing drug transactions including the pricing and quantities of different substances. Walker further admitted that he was arrested in New York after having calls intercepted by law enforcement. At the time of his arrest, Walker was in possession of approximately 1,500 prescription pills that he intended to distribute. He also was arrested in Princeton on January 10, 2020. At that time Walker was driving a car that had a hidden mechanical trap that he admitted was used to transport controlled substances. 

Walker faces up to 20 years in federal prison and $1 million fine, to be followed by at least three years of supervised release, when he is sentenced on December 14, 2020.   

The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Southern Regional Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, which is composed of officers from the West Virginia State Police, the Mercer County Sheriff’s Department, the Princeton Police Department and the Bluefield Police Department. 

Senior United States District Judge David A. Faber presided over the hearing. Assistant United States Attorney Timothy D. Boggess is handling the prosecution.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:19-cr-00307.

Sacramento Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Prison for Sex Trafficking

 SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Jaquorey Rashawn Carter, 24, of Sacramento, was sentenced today by Senior U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb to 14 years in prison for sex trafficking of a child, United States Attorney McGregor W. Scott announced.

According to evidence presented at a February 2020 jury trial, between 2013 and October 2018, Carter used a minor female and other adult women to work as prostitutes for him. As part of Carter’s pimping operation, he put the minor victim and other adult women in motel rooms and had them engage in prostitution on the street in order to make money from their prostitution activity. Carter ran his pimping operation in Sacramento, Stockton, Oakland, Sunnyvale, and Santa Ana.

In 2013, Carter began recruiting a then-14-year-old girl to work as a prostitute for him. In the years that followed, Carter took that minor victim to other cities where he would rent motel rooms in which the victim engaged in acts of prostitution. Carter continued to be involved in the use of this victim for acts of prostitution until 2018.

Evidence presented at the jury trial also showed that Carter had been arrested or contacted by law enforcement while he was transporting women to or from his illegal business opportunities. In September 2018, a federal judge authorized the wiretap of Carter’s cell phone. Sacramento-based task force agents then intercepted calls demonstrating that Carter was actively recruiting, harboring, transporting, and managing several women engaged in prostitution throughout California.

This case is the product of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the California Department of Justice’s Special Operations Unit, and the Sacramento Police Department. The California Highway Patrol, Sacramento Sheriff’s Department, and the Sacramento District Attorney’s Office assisted in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian A. Fogerty and Jason Hitt prosecuted the case.

Waterbury Man Charged with Fentanyl Distribution Offenses

 John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that MARBIN JIMENEZ, also known as “Rabia,” 32, of Waterbury, was arrested on August 31, 2020, on a criminal complaint charging him with possession with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl, and conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin and fentanyl.

As alleged in court documents and statements made in court, this matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department into a Waterbury-based drug trafficking operation headed by Nestor Sosa-Ortiz.  The investigation, which has included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance, and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Sosa-Ortiz’s organization received large quantities of heroin and fentanyl from suppliers in Connecticut and New York and distributed the narcotics throughout New Haven County.  After Sosa-Ortiz was arrested in New York City on a separate federal heroin and fentanyl trafficking charge in May 2019, he continued to control his drug network while incarcerated by using smuggled cell phones to communicate with various co-conspirators, including his sisters, Isamelis Sosa-Ortiz and Imirici Sosa-Ortiz, in Waterbury.

On November 6, 2019, a federal grand jury returned an indictment charging 15 members of the Sosa drug trafficking organization with conspiring to distribute heroin and fentanyl.  A superseding indictment returned in January 2020 added a sixteenth defendant.

Jimenez was subsequently identified as a redistributor for the Sosa-Ortiz drug trafficking organization.  In addition, on three occasions in July and August 2020, investigators conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl from Jimenez.

Jimenez was arrested on August 31, 2020, in Waterbury.  It is alleged that he possessed a distribution quantity of fentanyl at the time of his arrest.

Jimenez, who has been detained since his arrest, has a detention hearing scheduled for tomorrow at 11 a.m. before U.S. Magistrate Judge Sarah A.L. Merriam.

U.S. Attorney Durham stressed that a complaint is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt.  Charges are only allegations and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Nestor Sosa-Ortiz, Isamelis Sosa-Ortiz and Imirici Sosa-Ortiz have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.

This investigation is being conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury Police Department.  The DEA New Haven Task Force includes participants from the U.S. Marshals Service, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation Division, and the New Haven, Hamden, West Haven, North Haven, Branford, Ansonia, Meriden, Derby, Middletown, Naugatuck, and Waterbury Police Departments.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Tara E. Levens, Lauren C. Clark and Jocelyn Courtney Kaoutzanis.

Salina Man Pleads Guilty To Distributing Child Porn

 Charges of threatening the President dropped

WICHITA, KAN. – A Salina man pleaded guilty Tuesday to distributing child pornography. As part of a plea agreement in the case, prosecutors agreed to drop charges that the defendant threatened the life of the President of the United States, U.S. Attorney Stephen McAllister said.

Aaron McDowell, 25, Salina, Kan., pleaded guilty to one count of distributing child pornography. Investigators discovered the child pornography while investigating charges that McDowell posted a threat to kill the president on social media.

Investigators examining McDowell’s phone found images of child pornography. They went on to discover that for about a year McDowell used an online chat application to trade child pornography with other users.

Sentencing is set for Nov. 20. The plea agreement recommends McDowell be sentenced to not less than 168 months and not more than 216 months in federal prison. McAllister commended the U.S. Secret Service, the Sedgwick County Sheriff’s Office, the Kansas Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jason Hart for their work on the case.

Former United Nations Employee Charged With Making False Statements To Cover Up Sexual Assaults

 Karim Elkorany Allegedly Drugged and Sexually Assaulted Multiple Women While Working for the United Nations

Audrey Strauss, the Acting United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, and William F. Sweeney Jr., Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today that KARIM ELKORANY, a former communications specialist with the United Nations (“UN”) in Iraq, was charged in an Indictment in Manhattan federal court with two counts of making false statements to special agents of the FBI in an effort to conceal his drugging and sexual assault of multiple women while he worked for the UN.  ELKORANY was arrested in New Jersey today and is expected to be presented before Magistrate Judge James L. Cott this afternoon.  The case is assigned to District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald.

Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “Karim Elkorany, a former United Nations communications specialist, was accused of furtively drugging and sexually assaulting several women.  When questioned by the FBI, Elkorany compounded his alleged unconscionable conduct by making false statements to the special agents investigating the assaults.  Thanks to the diligence of the FBI, Elkorany now faces serious time in an American federal prison.  We urge any individuals who may have information concerning Elkorany or any similar conduct to please contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL- FBI or tips.fbi.gov.”

FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said:  “Investigated by UN officials for allegedly drugging and sexually assaulting a woman in Iraq in 2016, Elkorany caught the eye of the FBI.  Elkorany’s conduct, as detailed in today’s charges, is abhorrent, and the false statements made to the FBI Special Agents conducting this investigation are federal offenses. Our investigation continues, and if anyone has information about Elkorany, please contact us at 1-800-CALL- FBI or via our tipline at tips.fbi.gov.”

According to the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court and publicly available information:[1]

Since at least in or about 2005 up to at least in or about April 2018, ELKORANY worked in international aid, development, and/or foreign relations.  From in or about October 2013 up to in or about April 2016, ELKORANY worked for the UN Children’s Fund in Iraq.  From in or about July 2016 up to in or about April 2018, ELKORANY worked as a Communications Specialist for the UN in Iraq. 

In or about November 2016, ELKORANY drugged and sexually assaulted a woman (“Victim-1”) in Iraq, where he was stationed while working for the UN.  Victim-1 had food and alcoholic beverages with ELKORANY at a restaurant, after which ELKORANY brought Victim-1 to his apartment.  While at ELKORANY’s apartment, Victim-1 was rendered unconscious.  Victim-1 regained consciousness for brief periods, during which she observed ELKORANY sexually assaulting her but was physically unable to stop him.  ELKORANY, among other things, put his penis in Victim-1’s mouth and anally penetrated Victim-1. 

In or around December 2016, Victim-1 reported the sexual assault to the UN.  The UN initiated an investigation, through which ELKORANY was notified of the substance of Victim-1’s allegations against him.

Federal agents subsequently uncovered evidence that ELKORANY had engaged in a pattern of similar conduct involving other women.  In each instance, ELKORANY drugged the victim before sexually assaulting or attempting to sexually assault the victim while the victim was unconscious or partially conscious.  In particular, between in or around 2009 and in or around 2016, ELKORANY sexually assaulted or attempted to sexually assault at least five victims after the victims were rendered unconscious after consuming alcoholic beverages prepared by ELKORANY.  When some of the victims regained consciousness, some or all of their clothing had been removed.  In some instances, after they awoke, ELKORANY informed the victims, in substance and in part, that they had sexual intercourse, oral sex, and/or anal sex with him.  In some instances, when or after the victims regained consciousness, the victims experienced genital and anal discomfort and pain.

On or about November 3, 2017, special agents working with the New York Field Office of the FBI conducted a voluntary interview of ELKORANY outside of his residence in New Jersey.  Agents conducting the interview identified themselves and informed ELKORANY that they were investigating, among other things, his interactions with Victim-1.  During that interview, ELKORANY, who expressed familiarity with the nature and substance of the allegations made by Victim-1 to the UN, stated that the allegations Victim-1 had made to the UN were false.  ELKORANY also stated that he had not used drugs with Victim-1 or provided Victim-1 with any drugs.

*                *                *

ELKORANY, 37, of West Orange, New Jersey, is charged with two counts of making false statements to federal law enforcement agents, each of which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

Acting U.S. Attorney Strauss praised the outstanding work of the FBI.  Ms. Strauss also thanked the United States Department of State and the UN for their assistance, and noted that the investigation is ongoing.  Any individuals who believe they have information concerning ELKORANY or any similar conduct should contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL- FBI or tips.fbi.gov.           

The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Public Corruption Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel C. Richenthal, Amanda L. Houle, and Lara Pomerantz are in charge of the prosecution.

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

 

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[1] As the introductory phrase signifies, the entirety of the Indictment and the descriptions of the Indictment set forth herein constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

Las Cruces man charged with using internet in attempt to entice minor into sex

             ALBUQUERQUE, N.M. – Robert Jasso, 23, of Las Cruces, New Mexico, appeared in federal court on Aug. 25 for a detention hearing on charges of attempted coercion and enticement of a minor child, attempted production of child pornography and attempted solicitation of child pornography. Jasso will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled at this time.

            According to a federal criminal complaint, on July 18 Jasso allegedly used the social networking application Skout to contact what he thought was a 13-year-old girl. The complaint alleges, Jasso then attempted to entice the person he thought was a minor to travel to him to engage in sexual activity. Jasso later allegedly asked the person he thought was a minor to recruit another minor to engage in sexual activity with the two of them. Jasso allegedly requested that the person he thought was a minor send him sexually explicit photographs that would constitute child pornography.

            After additional conversations, according to the complaint, on Aug. 14 Jasso travelled to a location near Sonoma Elementary School in Doña Ana County, New Mexico, where he expected to meet two 13-year-old girls to engage in sexual activity and was arrested.

            A criminal complaint is only an accusation.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. If convicted, Jasso faces 5 to 20 years in prison for attempted solicitation of child pornography, 15 to 30 years for attempted production of child pornography and 10 years to life for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor child.

            The FBI investigated this case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Matilda McCarthy Villalobos is prosecuting the case.

Third major takedown of drug trafficking ring nets 14 arrests

 Coordinated law enforcement efforts against cartel connected traffickers bringing fentanyl, meth and heroin into Western Washington

(Seattle) - The third major drug ring takedown in as many months resulted in 14 arrests today of members of the drug trafficking network.  U.S. Attorney Brian T. Moran and DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Weis announced the culmination of these three wiretap investigations.  Those arrested today will appear in U.S. District Court in Seattle at 2:00.

“With this third law enforcement takedown in six weeks, we continue to root out those who seek to poison our communities with fentanyl, heroin and methamphetamine,” said U.S. Attorney Moran.  “Despite the challenges of tracking criminal activity during a pandemic, the dedicated men and woman of law enforcement continue to investigate and interdict drug shipments while building legal cases against these defendants.”

“Even during this Covid-19 crisis, these alleged drug traffickers preyed on Washingtonians, using extraordinary violence to increase their wealth and power,” said DEA Acting Administrator Timothy J. Shea. “However, as this operation shows, DEA and our law enforcement partners will never stop working – even during a global pandemic – to protect the communities we serve.  Operation Lockdown successfully removed a number of violent drug traffickers from the streets of the Seattle-Tacoma area, and will enable these communities to focus on what matters most – the health and safety of their loved ones.”

“With today’s operation we have surpassed 60 arrests of members of highly organized transnational groups with tentacles reaching from Mexico to Puget Sound.  They profit by pushing extremely dangerous narcotics such as methamphetamines, heroin and the worst of the worst – fentanyl,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Keith Weis. “With our partners, even before today’s action, we took over 300 pounds of methamphetamine, 55 pounds of heroin, 41,200 fentanyl pills, 30 firearms; and more than $1. 3 million in drug trafficker assets off the streets. The dealers of these drugs are responsible for increasing levels of violence, addiction and overdose deaths in our communities.”

Today’s arrests come on the heels of two other major drug takedowns: On August 5, 2020, law enforcement rolled up a drug trafficking ring that distributed large amounts of fentanyl, heroin and meth in the Seattle area and North Puget Sound region.  During that investigation law enforcement seized more than14 pounds of heroin and 15 pounds of methamphetamine.

On July 28, 2020, law enforcement arrested 13 people named in an indictment for drug trafficking connected to the violent CJNG Mexican cartel.  Much of the drug trafficking activity in that case was in the South Sound region, including the Kitsap Peninsula.  More than 100 pounds of meth were seized in that investigation, and law enforcement had to intervene at times when they heard threats being made over the wire to enforce cartel rules with violence.

Today’s takedown involves drug defendants who distributed fentanyl, meth and heroin in Seattle and North Puget Sound communities.  They discussed or conducted their drug deals in a wide variety of locations, such as a Mexican restaurant in Kent, a bank parking lot at the Northgate shopping mall and a 7-11 in Snohomish County.  The members of the drug distribution ring were frequently armed – one was pulled over after waving a firearm at another vehicle on I-5 North near Bellingham.  In December 2019, law enforcement seized 10 kilos of methamphetamine, 1,000 fentanyl-tainted pills and a loaded firearm from the lead defendant in this case.

Those named in the indictments or taken into custody on criminal complaints week include:

Gonzalo Villasenor, 23, Lynnwood

Julio Cesar Ramirez-Meneses, 32, Kent

Jocelyn Leyva-Castellanos, 21, Lynnwood

Edgar Efren Olivas-Armenta, 43, Edmonds

Rozzy Marie McGee, 34, Everett

Emanuel Campos-Pantoja, 23, SeaTac

Francisco Javier Carrillo, 33, Marysville

Anthony Michael Shepherd, 33, Marysville

Julius B. Supnet, 27, Edmonds

Jesus Israel Tapia-Alvarado, 24, Bellevue

Bryan Michael Pollestad, 33, Everett 

Travis Eugene Keel, 52, Everett  

Laura Rodriguez-Moreno, 44, Marysville

Jose Morales-Flores, 39, Marysville

Omar Israel Morales, 18, Marysville

Joaquin Guerrero-Serrano, 34, Marysville

Gerardo Arias-Garcia, 32, Renton

Samantha Hernandez, 38, Lynnwood

Lionel Gonzalez-Torres, 24, Burlington

Jesus Daniel Lerma-Jaras, 40, Everett  

Prior to today’s takedown law enforcement seized more than 8,000 pills tainted with suspected fentanyl, 22 pounds of heroin, 70 pounds of methamphetamine, one kilo of cocaine, two firearms and approximately $500,000 cash in drug proceeds.  Today, law enforcement seized: 36 pounds of heroin, 1,600 suspected fentanyl pills, a pound of methamphetamine, and seven firearms.

“I’m grateful for the dozens of arrests and the seizure of many pounds of illegal drugs, including thousands of pills likely tainted with fentanyl,” Seattle Police Chief Adrian Diaz said Tuesday.  “What’s far more difficult to count; the number of lives saved and the number of parents who have been spared the trauma of burying their child, thanks to the on-going partnerships between local and federal law enforcement agencies.”

“The Skagit County Interlocal Drug Task Force is pleased to have played a small role in this larger multi-jurisdictional law enforcement effort that will have a significant and sustained impact on the organized drug trade in Washington State,” said Tobin Meyer, Chief Criminal Deputy, Skagit County Sheriff’s Office

Due to the amount of narcotics involved in this case, some defendants face a mandatory minimum ten years in prison.

The charges contained in the indictments and complaints are only allegations.  A person is presumed innocent unless and until he or she is proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

This was an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation, providing supplemental federal funding to the federal and state agencies involved. The investigation was conducted by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Snohomish Regional Drug Task Force, Seattle Police Department, Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Skagit Interlocal Drug Enforcement Unit.  The investigation was supported by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA). 

In addition, to the agencies listed above, these law enforcement agencies assisted with arrests and search warrants executed today:  Snohomish County Sherriff’s Office, Everett Police Department, Marysville Police Department, Skagit County Sherriff’s Office, Valley SWAT, Region 1 SWAT, North Sound Metro SWAT, Olympic Peninsula Narcotic Enforcement Team, Washington State Patrol, King County Sherriff’s Office, Auburn Police Department, Kent Police Department, Federal Way Police Department, Shoreline Police Department, Renton Police Department, Bothell Police Department, Lake Stevens Police Department, Mountlake Terrace Police Department, Arlington Police Department, Snoqualmie/North Bend Police Department, Burien Police Department, Tacoma Police Department, DEA Special Response Team, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), United States Marshals Service (USMS), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Stephen P. Hobbs and C. Andrew Colasurdo.

Shakopee Man Charged With Being An Armed Career Criminal In Possession Of A Firearm

 United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a federal indictment charging MICHAEL ALLEN BURRELL, 40, with one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. BURRELL was ordered to remain in custody following a detention and arraignment hearing held today before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung, in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

According to allegations in the indictment, on June 23, 2020, BURRELL possessed a .45 caliber Sig Sauer semi-automatic pistol, model P250. Because BURRELL has multiple prior felony convictions he is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minneapolis Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. This case was brought as part of the Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force, a multi-agency effort that brings together additional federal and state resources to assist local law enforcement to investigate, arrest, and prosecute individuals responsible for gun violence in the Twin Cities. For more information about the Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/united-states-attorney-announces-new-twin-cities-violent-crime-task-force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin A. Wesley is prosecuting the case.

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

 

Defendant Information:

MICHAEL ALLEN BURRELL, 40

Shakopee, Minn.

Charges:

• Felon in possession of a firearm- Armed career criminal, 1 count

Second Minneapolis Man Charged With Armed Robbery Spree Of Twin Cities Businesses

 United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced a criminal complaint charging DAIJON LEWIS MILES, 28, with three counts of Hobbs Act robbery and one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. MILES, who was arrested on August 27, 2020, made an appearance today before Magistrate Judge Tony N. Leung in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

According to the allegations in the criminal complaint and law enforcement affidavit, on July 28, 2020, between 2:16 p.m. and 8:55 p.m, MILES used force, violence, and fear of injury to commit three armed robberies of businesses located in St. Paul and Minneapolis, including one gas station and two liquor stores.

The Hobbs Act, passed by Congress in 1946, allows federal prosecutors to prosecute individuals who commit armed robberies of businesses engaged in interstate commerce.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the Minneapolis Police Department, the Fridley Police Department, the Brooklyn Center Police Department, the New Hope Police Department, and the St. Paul Police Department. This case was brought as part of the Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force, a multi-agency effort that brings together additional federal and state resources to assist local law enforcement to investigate, arrest, and prosecute individuals responsible for gun violence in the Twin Cities. For more information about the Twin Cities Violent Crime Task Force, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mn/pr/united-states-attorney-announces-new-twin-cities-violent-crime-task-force.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin A. Wesley is prosecuting the case.

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

 

Defendant Information:

DAIJON LEWIS MILES, 28

Minneapolis, Minn.

Charges:

• Hobbs Act robbery, 3 counts
• Using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, 1 count

St. Paul Man Sentenced To 10 Years In Prison For Child Pornography

 United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of BRANDON JAMES JOTBLAD, 29, to 120 months in federal prison for possession of child pornography. JOTBLAD pleaded guilty and was sentenced yesterday before Judge Eric C. Tostrud in U.S. District Court in St. Paul, Minnesota.

“Downloading sexually explicit images or videos involving children is not victimless crime. These are real children who are re-victimized every time the images are downloaded and shared,” said United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “Individuals who chose to participate in this type of victimization will face significant prison time.”

According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed with the court, on July 30, 2019, JOTBLAD knowingly possessed video files containing visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. During this time JOTBLAD was on probation for a prior Ramsey County felony conviction for possession of child pornography.

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

This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, the St. Paul Police Department, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, with assistance from the Minnesota Attorney General’s Office and the Anoka County Attorney’s Office.

This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander D. Chiquoine.

 

Defendant Information:

BRANDON JAMES JOTBLAD, 29

St. Paul, Minn.

Convicted:

• Possession of child pornography, 1 count

Sentenced:

• 120 months in prison
• 15 years of supervised release

Two Baltimore County Men Facing Federal Indictment for Murder-For-Hire, Extortion, and Related Charges

 Allegedly Planned to Murder Victims Over a Debt

Baltimore, Maryland – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging Clement Robert Mercaldo, Jr., age 61, of Timonium, Maryland and Stepfen Gerard Gaither, age 29, of Randallstown, Maryland, for a murder-for-hire conspiracy, use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire, collection of credit by extortion, and for interstate communications with intent to extort.  Gaither is also charged for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin.

The indictment was announced by United States Attorney for the District of Maryland Robert K. Hur; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer C. Boone of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Baltimore Field Office; and Chief Melissa R. Hyatt of the Baltimore County Police Department.

According to the 16-count indictment and other court documents, Mercaldo loaned money to a Baltimore County restaurant owner.  The indictment alleges that from March 2019 through February 2020, Mercaldo and Gaither conspired to commit a murder in exchange for cash.  Further, the defendants allegedly sent numerous text messages threatening harm to the restaurant owner, his business partner, and their families, related to non-payments of this loan.  Mercaldo and Gaither allegedly discussed and planned the murder of one or both of the victims.

Finally, the indictment alleges that on June 23, 2020, Gaither possessed with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of a mixture of fentanyl and heroin.

If convicted, Mercaldo and Gaither face a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison for the murder-for-hire conspiracy and for use of interstate commerce facilities in the commission of murder-for-hire; a maximum of 20 years in federal prison for both collection of credit by extortionate means and for interstate communications with intent to extort.  Gaither also faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and heroin.  Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.  The defendants will have an initial appearance in U.S. District Court in Baltimore at a later date.  Mercaldo and Gaither are currently detained on related federal charges.

An indictment is not a finding of guilt.  An individual charged by indictment is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty at some later criminal proceedings. 

United States Attorney Robert K. Hur commended the FBI and Baltimore County Police Department for their work in the investigation.  Mr. Hur thanked Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul E. Budlow, who is prosecuting the case.

Two Men Plead Guilty to Drug Trafficking in Operation Dirty Bird

 TEXARKANA, Texas – Two Texas men have pleaded guilty to drug trafficking in the Eastern District of Texas, announced U.S. Attorney Stephen J. Cox today.

Rodolfo Javier Falcon, 36, of Titus County, Texas, pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute controlled substances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Caroline M. Craven on August 20, 2020. Falcon agreed to forfeit $5 million in drug proceeds.

Jose Armando Rosales-Bernal, 27, of Dallas County, Texas, pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute controlled substances before U.S. Magistrate Judge Caroline M. Craven on September 1, 2020. Rosales-Bernal agreed to forfeit $4 million in drug proceeds; $234,971.00 in U.S. currency; his home in Dallas, Texas; numerous firearms; two luxury watches; a gold necklace with a rooster-shaped pendant covered in jewels; and three vehicles, including a Dodge Charger Hellcat.

According to information presented in court, Falcon, Rosales-Bernal, and others conspired to distribute more than 150 kilograms of Mexican cocaine in Dallas, East Texas, and beyond. In fact, Falcon and others—including two children—were stopped in Tennessee carrying nine kilograms of cocaine to distribute in North Carolina. The organization was also responsible for shipping drug proceeds, in the form of bulk cash, back to Mexico. For example, law enforcement intercepted one bulk cash shipment of approximately $350,000.00. Rosales-Bernal and Falcon both occupied leadership roles in the drug trafficking organization, which also distributed methamphetamine. During the investigation, law enforcement observed several members of the organization—including Rosales-Bernal—carrying firearms. Rosales-Bernal admitted that he possessed multiple firearms because he knew that the large quantity of drugs being trafficked by the organization made their activities inherently dangerous. Rosales-Bernal also described how he spent his drug proceeds on lavish lifestyle items, including a Dodge Charger Hellcat, flashy watches, a jewel encrusted rooster necklace, and numerous pairs of shoes and boots.

Under federal statutes, Falcon faces at least 10 years and up to life in federal prison at sentencing; Rosales-Bernal faces at least five years and up to 40 years in federal prison at sentencing. The statutory sentence prescribed by Congress is provided here for information purposes, as the sentencing will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the U.S. Probation Office.

Operation Dirty Bird is a long-term drug trafficking and money-laundering investigation that has already led to the seizure of more than $500,000.00 in U.S. Currency, almost 40 kilograms of cocaine, more than a quarter kilogram of methamphetamine, nine firearms, and multiple vehicles.

Rosales-Bernal, Julio Villarreal, Armando Moreno Jr., Falcon, Gerardo Cabrera Ramirez, Claudia Claribel Gardea, Jose Geraldo Ornelas-Pineda, Dalia Janes Campos Rosales, Eleazar Martinez Reyes, and David Martinez were previously charged and arrested as a result of this investigation. Ornelas-Pineda and Moreno have pleaded guilty and have been sentenced. Rosales-Bernal, Villarreal, Falcon, Ramirez, Reyes, and Gardea have pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Campos Rosales and Martinez have pleaded not guilty and are awaiting trial. This case is pending in the Texarkana Division of the Eastern District of Texas.

If convicted, Campos Rosales and Martinez face a minimum of 15 years and as much as life in federal prison.

This case is being investigated by the Mount Pleasant office of the Texas Department of Public Safety, Criminal Investigation Division and the Dallas office of Homeland Security Investigations SRT. In addition, the following agencies have played critical roles in this investigation: the Mesquite, Texas, Police Department SWAT team; the Texas National Guard; the Texas Department of Public Safety, Highway Patrol Division and Aircraft Division; the George West, Texas, Police Department; the 23rd Judicial Drug Task Force in Dickson, Tennessee; and the Mount Pleasant, Texas, Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan R. Hornok.

New Britain Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking Firearms

 John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that CARLOS SOTO, also known as “Puchie,” 39, 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 trafficking 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 Soto were brokering a gun deal where Julio Martinez, of New Britain, 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.

Soto, Reyes, Martinez 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 Soto, Reyes, Martinez and 12 associates with various narcotics trafficking and firearm possession offenses.

Soto has been detained since his arrest.  On December 12, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.

Reyes, Martinez and Klosek also pleaded guilty.  On June 30, 2020, Martinez was sentenced to 46 months of imprisonment.   Reyes and Klosek await sentencing.

To date, approximately 11 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.

Six Defendants Arrested, Charged With Narcotics Conspiracy; Two Of The Defendants Charged In Triple Homicide Murder, While Third Charged With Helping Murderers To Burn The Bodies And Destroy Evidence

BUFFALO, N.Y.-U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy Jr. announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a 24-count indictment charging six defendants with narcotics conspiracy, a conspiracy that ultimately led to the deaths of three individuals, and the burning of their bodies. Named in the indictment are:

• Jariel Cobb, a/k/a Doobie, a/k/a Black, 47, of Buffalo, NY;
• James Reed, a/k/a Fatts, 38, of Buffalo, NY;
• Jahaan McDuffie; a/k/a Wanka, 29, of Buffalo, NY;
• Destenee Bell, a/k/a K, 27, of Cheektowaga, NY;
• Deandre Wilson, a/k/a D, 49, of Buffalo, NY; and
• Deshema Clark, 42, of Buffalo, NY.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brendan T. Cullinane and Michael J. Adler, who are handling the case, stated that according to the indictment, between 2014 and September 25, 2019, the defendants are accused of conspiring to sell cocaine, heroin, marijuana, and fentanyl in the Buffalo area. In furtherance of this conspiracy, defendants Jariel Cobb, James Reed, and Destenee Bell are accused of maintaining a drug involved premises by utilizing residences at 211 Box Avenue and 973 Fillmore Avenue in Buffalo, to facilitate their drug trafficking activities. Defendants Wilson and Deshema Clark are accused of utilizing 164 Parkridge Avenue, also in Buffalo, for drug trafficking activities. Defendant Jahaan McDuffie is charged with distributing significant quantities of marijuana and heroin.

The indictment further states that between September 15 and 16, 2019, defendants Cobb and Wilson committed murder while engaged in a narcotics conspiracy and Hobbs Act conspiracy. Cobb and Wilson allegedly murdered Miguel Anthony Valentin-Colon, Nicole Marie Merced-Plaud, and Dhamyl Roman-Audiffred and stole from them certain personal property, including cocaine, cellular telephones, and a white Chrysler Pacifica minivan. 

Following the murders, Cobb, Wilson, and defendant Reed are accused of obstruction of justice for burning the bodies of Valentin-Colon and Merced-Plaud, and mutilating and burning the body of Roman-Audiffred. Cobb and Wilson are also accused of conspiracy to damage and destroy a vehicle used in interstate commerce by fire, and damaging and destroying a vehicle used in interstate commerce by fire. Defendant Reed is charged with being an accessory after the fact for assisting Cobb and Wilson.

“The Department of Justice has a capital case review process which culminates in a decision by the Attorney General regarding whether to seek, or not to seek, the death penalty against a particular defendant,” stated U.S. Attorney Kennedy. “That process is underway in this case as it pertains to defendants Jariel Cobb and Deandre Wilson.”

“For the families of Miguel, Nicole, and Dhamyl, we hope that the charges announced today will ease some of your suffering,” said Stephen Belongia, Special Agent- in-Charge of the FBI's Buffalo Office. “And to gang members and other violent criminals, if you choose to live a life fueled by greed and violence, you should know that the FBI and our law enforcement partners stand ready to do everything in our power to ensure you are held accountable for your crimes. While we can’t bring back Miguel, Nicole, and Dhamyl, we hope it brings the families some bit of peace to know that the Western New York law enforcement community came together and threw everything we had at this investigation.”

The indictment also seeks the forfeiture of currency and firearms which resulted from the drug trafficking activities of the defendants, including $16,900 in cash, two 9mm handguns, and 22 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The indictment is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia; the Buffalo Police Department, under the direction of Commissioner Byron Lockwood; the Erie County Sheriff’s Office, under the direction of Sheriff Timothy Howard; the Erie County Central Police Services Forensic Laboratory, under the direction of Commissioner James Jancewicz. Additional assistance was provided by the Erie County District Attorney’s Office, under the direction of District Attorney John Flynn.

The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Volunteer And Former Employee Of Minneapolis Charter School Sentenced To 20 Years In Prison For Child Pornography

 United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald today announced the sentencing of JOSIAH RAUL MOSQUEDA, 28, to 20 years in federal prison. MOSQUEDA, who pleaded guilty to one count of production of child pornography on December 6, 2019, was sentenced today before Judge Patrick J. Schiltz in U.S. District Court in Minneapolis, Minnesota.

“The defendant was a school employee with direct access to students. He presented himself as someone the students could trust and rely on,” said United States Attorney Erica H. MacDonald. “Instead of being that trusted adult, he exploited that trust, groomed young and vulnerable victims, and preyed upon them for his own sexual gratification. I am grateful the Court recognized this egregious conduct and sentenced him accordingly.”

According to the defendant’s guilty plea and documents filed with the court, MOSQUEDA was a volunteer and former employee of a Minneapolis charter school and a volunteer at a different Minneapolis middle school. MOSQUEDA used social media and electronic communication platforms – specifically Skype, Facebook Messenger, Instagram, Twitter, Kik, WhatsApp, and Snapchat – to communicate with at least ten minor male victims. MOSQUEDA repeatedly solicited the victims to send him naked images of themselves, or videos of sexually explicit acts. MOSQUEDA would suggest in-person sexual encounters and offered economic or other favors in exchange for sexual contact. MOSQUEDA also engaged the victims in sexually explicit conversations and sent sexually explicit pictures of himself to victims. In addition to his conduct involving known victims, MOSQUEDA sought out and curated a collection of additional images and videos containing child pornography on his laptops and cell phone.

In issuing today’s ruling, the Court described MOSQUEDA as a serial sexual predator and “a wolf who pretended to be a shepherd in order to gain access to the sheep.”

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

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.

This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Lindsey Middlecamp and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Carol M. Kayser.

Defendant Information:

JOSIAH RAUL MOSQUEDA, 28

Minneapolis, Minn.

Convicted:

• Production of child pornography, 1 count

Sentenced:

• 20 years in prison
• 10 years of supervised releas