Friday, January 29, 2021

ATF Offers $10,000 Reward for Information in Clark County Arson

Side by side comparison of before and after the arson that left buildings being constructed damaged.

 

Las Vegas- The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is offering a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for setting a fire located at the Ely at Fort Apache apartment complex construction site, located at 5055 South Fort Apache, Las Vegas, NV.

The multi-alarm fire that occurred at the structure on January 18, 2021, was determined to be arson. The fire damaged three buildings, which included 206 apartment homes and the complex’s clubhouse, all of which were in various stages of construction. The fire resulted in approximately $35 million dollars of financial loss. 

Special agents from ATF’s San Francisco Field Division’s Las Vegas Field Offices and personnel from ATF’s National Response Team (NRT) responded to the fire scene to assist the Clark County Fire Department with this investigation. The Las Vegas Fire and Rescue and the Henderson Fire Department also provided assistance. 

ATF and the Clark County Fire Department are continuing to investigate.

Anyone with any information on the suspect(s) should contact ATF at 1-888-ATF-FIRE (1-888-283-3473) or ATFtips@atf.gov, or by using www.reportit.com (also through the mobile “reportit” app, available both on Google Play and the Apple App Store). All calls and tips can remain confidential.

Police Officer Indicted for Theft of Firearms from Police Weapons Vault and Tampering with Multiple Witnesses

 SAN JUAN, Puerto Rico – On January 20, 2021, a federal grand jury returned an eight-count indictment charging William Cintrón Rivera, a.k.a. “El Kid”/“Kid”  with the theft of 54 guns and thousands of rounds of ammunition, announced W. Stephen Muldrow, United States Attorney for the District of Puerto Rico.  A federal grand jury further charged defendant Cintrón Rivera with tampering with multiple witnesses, by requesting that they provide false information to federal investigators. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives is in charge of the investigation of the case.

According to the indictment, on July 17, 2019, in the District of Puerto Rico, defendant Cintrón Rivera stole 54 firearms from the Puerto Rico Police Bureau (PRPB), Guayama headquarters.  At the time of the theft, defendant Cintrón Rivera was a police officer in the PRPB.  In addition, the defendant is charged with the possession of six of the stolen firearms and thousands of rounds of ammunition.

In an effort to cover his crime, Cintrón Rivera attempted to intimidate and corruptly persuade M.T.A. and E.C.R. by requesting that they provide false information to federal investigators relevant to the theft, such as Cintrón Rivera’s whereabouts on the night of the crime.

Subsequently, on December 12, 2020, Cintrón Rivera also attempted to intimidate and corruptly persuade G.A.C. by requesting that she falsely provide information to federal investigators regarding (a) the nature and duration of their relationship; (b) Cintrón Rivera’s whereabouts during the timeframe of the theft; (c) the identity of an alleged informant; and (d) communications involving Cintrón Rivera and G.A.C., including payment for an alleged cell phone.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Luis A. Valentin and Jonathan L. Gottfried, Chief of the Violent Crimes and National Security Section, are in charge of the prosecution of the case. If convicted, the defendant faces up to 10 years in prison for each firearms count, and 20 years for each witness-tampering count.  

An indictment contains only charges and is not evidence of guilt. Defendants are presumed to be innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Thursday, January 28, 2021

Former Marion High School Guidance Counselor Indicted For Producing Child Pornography

FORT WAYNE – Ryan Christian Vermilion, age 46, of Marion, Indiana was charged with production of child pornography by way of a single count Grand Jury Indictment, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Gary T. Bell.

According to documents in this case, from on or about January 26, 2020 through February 18, 2020, Mr. Vermilion allegedly enticed a minor to send him sexually explicit pictures.  Also alleged is that the victim met the defendant through cross-platform social media sites, engaging in chat and photo sharing while believing the defendant was an ill teenage boy.   

The United States Attorney’s Office emphasizes that an Indictment is merely an allegation and that all persons are presumed innocent until, and unless proven guilty in court.

If convicted, any specific sentence to be imposed will be determined by the Judge after a consideration of federal statutes and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines.

This case is a result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Indiana State Police and Wells County Sheriff’s Department This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lesley J. Miller Lowery.   

Parents are strongly encouraged to speak with their children about similar conversations and contact the FBI at 317-595-4000 if anything similar is found on any of their devices.

Jury Convicts Inmate of Attacking BOP Employee

 A federal jury has convicted a prison inmate of attacking a Bureau of Prisons employee, announced Acting U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Texas Prerak Shah.

After just over an hour of deliberations, a jury on Tuesday found 44-year-old William Lee Terrell guilty of assault of a federal officer resulting in bodily injury. 

According to evidence presented at trial, Mr. Terrell was convicted in 2010 of bank robbery and ordered to serve his 235-month sentence at FCI Big Spring.  On March 23, 2019, Mr. Terrell, who was on suicide watch, was placed under the observation of Human Resource Specialist Krista Coccozza.

As HR Specialist Coccozza attempted to retrieve trash from a meal he had just eaten, Mr. Terrell reached through the food slot in the door, grabbing Specialist Coccozza. He struggled with her, attempting to free the keys to the cell attached to her belt.

Additional guards responded to Coccozza’s calls for help and they were able to eventually free the keys from Terrell and secure his cell.

Specialist Coccozza suffered a bruised lung, bruised ribs, sprained wrist, sprained elbow, sprained fingers, skin abrasions, pain, and redness on her body, and was unable to return to work for a period of time due to her injuries.

Mr. Terrell now faces up to 20 additional years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has been set for April 29. 

The Federal Bureau of Investigation conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Callie Woolam and Stephen Rancourt are prosecuting the case.  U.S. District Judge James Wesley Hendrix presided over the trial.

The Bronx Defenders Holistic Defense Model Rated No Effects

 

This is a program that uses an interdisciplinary team to address factors contributing to clients' contact with the court.

The program is rated No Effects. Although participants showed a statistically significant lower likelihood of receiving jail time and were sentenced to fewer days in jail, there were no statistically significant effects on overall conviction rate and likelihood of future arrest. The preponderance of evidence suggests the program did not have the intended effects.

LEARN MORE

Inmate Sentenced to Another Year for SORNA Violation

 ERIE, Pa. – An inmate at the Pamunkey Regional Jail in Hanover, Virginia pleaded guilty and was sentenced in federal court to 13 months in jail on his conviction of failure to register under SORNA, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

United States District Judge Susan Paradise Baxter imposed the sentence on Jeremy Christopher Ester, 42.

According to information presented to the court, Ester traveled from Virginia, without the permission of his probation officer, to Erie, Pennsylvania, where he stayed for months before his arrest and knowingly failed to register as a sex offender in Pennsylvania as required by the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act.

Assistant United States Attorney Christian A. Trabold prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the United States Marshals Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Ester.

Wednesday, January 27, 2021

Nixa School Official Charged with Producing Child Pornography

 SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – An assistant principal at Nixa Junior High School in Nixa, Missouri, was charged in federal court today with the sexual exploitation of a child for the purpose of producing child pornography.

Colby Fronterhouse, 41, was charged in a criminal complaint filed in the U.S. District Court in Springfield, Mo., with one count of producing child pornography. Fronterhouse was employed at the junior high school at the time of the alleged offense.

According to an affidavit filed in support of the federal criminal complaint, a Christian County sheriff’s deputy was contacted by a 13-year-old child victim and his father in September 2020. The child victim, identified in court documents as “John Doe,” had been engaging in a series of text messages for approximately a week with Fronterhouse, whom the affidavit says posed as a 14-year-old girl. Fronterhouse, posing as a 14-year-old, allegedly encouraged John Doe to transmit sexually explicit images of himself to Fronterhouse, made specific requests for poses or types of images, and had sexually explicit conversations with John Doe.

Investigators learned that the phone used by Fronterhouse was a burner phone number with a Voice Over Internet Protocol (VoIP) account, the affidavit says, but they were able to trace the account to Fronterhouse. Officers executed a search warrant at Fronterhouse’s residence on Tuesday, Jan. 26, and he was arrested. Investigators seized Fronterhouse’s cell phone and found evidence linking his cell phone to the burner account. Investigators confirmed that Fronterhouse had access to the child victim’s cell phone number through school records.

The public’s assistance is being sought in this investigation. Anyone with information regarding additional potential victims is asked to contact Homeland Security Investigations Task Force Officer Joseph Fletcher at (417) 573-2606.

The charge contained in this complaint is simply an accusation, and not evidence of guilt. Evidence supporting the charge must be presented to a federal trial jury, whose duty is to determine guilt or innocence.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie L. Wan. It was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Office of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Southwest Missouri Cyber Crimes Task Force, the Greene County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department, and the Christian County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department. 

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."

Convicted Felon Sentenced to 51 Months Imprisonment for Possessing a Firearm in a Crowded Austin Parking Lot

 A federal judge in Austin sentenced 27-year-old convicted felon Perry Lee Parks to 51 months imprisonment for illegally possessing a loaded 9 mm pistol in a crowded parking lot in downtown Austin, announced U.S. Attorney Gregg N. Sofer and Austin Police Chief Brian Manley. 

According to court records, Austin Police officers arrested Parks on September 8, 2019, in a crowded parking lot behind a Sixth Street business.  At the time of his arrest, Parks was in possession of a Glock 9mm pistol with a 31-round extended magazine loaded with 24 rounds of ammunition.  Parks’ criminal history reveals six prior felony convictions ranging from theft to delivery of a controlled substance.

“We cannot live in a society where an individual who has six felony convictions over 10 years is permitted to roam our streets with a 9mm handgun loaded with 24 rounds of ammunition.  Thanks to the hard work of the Austin Police Department, this particular individual will be off the streets and in federal prison.  People may deserve a second chance – not seven, said U.S. Attorney Sofer.

Parks pleaded guilty to the felon-in-possession charge on October 26, 2020.  In addition to the 51-month prison term handed down yesterday, U.S. District Judge Lee Yeakel ordered that Parks be placed under supervised release for a period of three years after completing his prison term.

The Austin Police Department investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel Castillo prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

This case is part of Operation Undaunted, a program which draws on the partnerships among federal, state and local law enforcement coupled with prosecution authorities to tackle the rising violent crime rate, interrupt violence, protect innocent life and restore peace to central and west Texas communities

Lapwai Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison

 COEUR D'ALENE – Sade Tyel Bronson, 34, of Lapwai, was sentenced in U.S. District Court to ten years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today. U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Bronson to serve five years of supervised release following her prison sentence. Bronson pleaded guilty to the charge on October 14, 2020.

According to statements made in court, Bronson was the target of a Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) drug investigation and was identified as a methamphetamine supplier on the Nez Perce Indian Reservation. On February 4, 2020, an Idaho State Police Trooper stopped the vehicle Bronson was driving near the Clearwater River Casino in Lewiston. Bronson was in possession of 88 grams of pure methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia indicating that she was a methamphetamine dealer. Because the methamphetamine weighed over 50 grams, a federal grand jury charged Bronson with a crime mandating a ten-year mandatory minimum sentence.

This case was investigated by the Hells Canyon Narcotics Working Group which includes the FBI, Idaho State Police, Nez Perce Tribal Police Department, Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office, and the Lewiston Police Department. The Nez Perce County Prosecutor’s Office also assisted this prosecution.

This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.

Pennsylvania man admits to role in drug conspiracy

 WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Zjaondezel Solomyn Douglas, of Zelionople, Pennsylvania, has admitted to his role in a cocaine, crack cocaine, heroin, and fentanyl distribution operation, U.S Attorney Bill Powell announced.
 
Douglas, 37, pleaded guilty today to one count of “Aiding and Abetting Distribution of Cocaine Base.” Douglas admitted to working with another to distribute cocaine base, also known as “crack,” in August 2018 in Hancock County.

Douglas faces up to 20 years of incarceration and a fine of up to $1,000,000. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed will be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history, if any, of the defendant.

Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danae DeMasi-Lemon is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Drug Enforcement Administration; the Hancock-Brooke-Weirton Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the West Virginia State Police; the Marshall County Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; The Ohio Valley Drug & Violent Crimes task Force, a HIDTA-funded initiative; the Jefferson County, Ohio, Drug & Violent Crimes Task Force; the Hancock County Sheriff’s Office; the Brooke County Sheriff’s Office; the Weirton Police Department; and the West Virginia Division of Natural Resources Police investigated. 

This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks. 

U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone presided

Three Defendants Charged In Methamphetamine Ring

 Audrey Strauss, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, William F. Sweeney Jr., the Assistant Director-in-Charge of the New York Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), and Geraldine Hart, Commissioner of the Suffolk County Police Department (“SCPD”), announced a criminal Complaint charging three defendants with narcotics and firearms offenses.  JOSEPH SWEENEY, JASMINE TABAK, and KEVIN TURNER, a/k/a “Tex,” were arrested yesterday on Long Island, New York, and will be presented today in Manhattan federal court.

U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said:  “As alleged in the Complaint, the defendants were responsible for trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine throughout New York City.  Thanks to the extraordinary work of our partners at the FBI and the Suffolk County Police Department, the defendants now face federal charges for their alleged crimes.” 

FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said:  “As this case demonstrates, illegal narcotics continue to plague our communities.  As alleged, Sweeney, Tabak, and Turner conspired to distribute methamphetamines, and Sweeney brandished a firearm in furtherance of his crimes.  Our action today should demonstrate the FBI’s Long Island Safe Streets Task Force, working together with our partners from the Suffolk County Police Department, remains committed to protecting the public from those who would seek to perpetuate the damage caused by the distribution of illegal narcotics.”

Suffolk County Police Commissioner Geraldine Hart said:  “A highly addictive and dangerous stimulant, methamphetamine cannot be trafficked in our communities.  This trio allegedly spent months distributing poison into the hands of the addicted, furthering the damaging impacts of narcotics in countless families’ lives.  I would like to commend the Southern District of New York, the FBI, and the members of the SCPD who took these dangerous individuals off the street and held them accountable for their alleged crimes.”

According to the allegations contained in the Complaint:[1]

From at least 2020 up to an including the present, defendants SWEENEY, TABAK, and TURNER conspired to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine, some of which was obtained from suppliers in New York, New York.  Law enforcement officers seized at least approximately 1.5 kilograms of methamphetamine from SWEENEY, TABAK, and TURNER during controlled purchases and a parcel seizure.  In multiple recorded conversations with an undercover law enforcement officer and a cooperating witness, SWEENEY claimed that TURNER manufactured methamphetamine at SWEENEY’s Suffolk County residence.

On November 23, 2020, SWEENEY was arrested in Suffolk County after law enforcement officers observed SWEENEY engage in a hand-to-hand narcotics sale.  In connection with the November 23, 2020, arrest, law enforcement officers seized methamphetamine and a loaded .38 caliber revolver from SWEENEY.  In addition, on January 18, 2021, in connection with an undercover purchase of methamphetamine, TURNER told an undercover law enforcement officer that SWEENEY pointed a 9mm firearm at TURNER’s head because SWEENEY suspected that the undercover was a law enforcement officer.

SWEENEY, 39, TABAK, 34, and TURNER, 43, all from Bayport, New York, are each charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute, or possess with intent to distribute, methamphetamines, a charge that carries a maximum term of life in prison and a mandatory minimum term of 10 years in prison.  In addition, SWEENEY, is charged with one count of possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking offense, which carries a mandatory minimum term of five years in prison, to be served consecutively to any other sentence.

Ms. Strauss praised the outstanding investigative work of the SCPD and the FBI’s Long Island Resident Agency.

This case is being handled by the Office’s Narcotics Unit.  Assistant United States Attorneys Benjamin Woodside Schrier and Emily A. Johnson are in charge of the prosecution.

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

 

 


 

 

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

Judge sentences Jefferson County man to statutory maximum of 10 years for being a felon in possession of a firearm

 ST. LOUIS – United States District Court Judge Stephen R. Clark sentenced Joshua Braman to 120 months in prison today. The 37-year-old Crystal City, Missouri resident previously pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, specifically a sawed-off shotgun.

In fact, on September 17, 2019, Joshua Braman beat a victim with the sawed-off shotgun and punched her dozens of times, causing her to bleed from her mouth and nose, to black out, and to ultimately need medical treatment.  During the course of the assault, Braman bit his victim, keeping her in a stolen Mercury Grand Marquis, as he continued his assault.  Braman also threatened to shoot this victim, dump her body in the river, and kill himself. 

On October 23, 2019, Braman was apprehended at a residence in Campbell, Missouri.  Not only did Braman have the stolen Grand Marquis parked outside the residence, but the sawed-off shotgun used to assault Braman’s victim, a 12 gauge Ever Best shotgun, was inside the vehicle. 

“The courage the victim demonstrated during the judicial process is admirable,” said Colonel Mary T. Barton, St. Louis County Chief of Police. “I appreciate the manner in which the United States Attorney’s Office handled this case, and as always, I am extremely proud of the dedication of the officers of the St. Louis County Police Department.”

Sarah Pingsterhaus, Victim’s Advocate for the U.S. Attorney’s Office says, “Felon in possession offenses are often viewed as victimless crimes, but this is not always the case.” Oftentimes, these cases come to fruition as a result of law enforcement responding to a domestic violence call and discovering the abuser is a previously convicted felon who is in possession of a firearm.”

Domestic violence is growing at an alarming rate across the country, enhanced by the current pandemic.  Stay-at-home orders were put in place to keep the public safe from the spread of the virus, but it also forced survivors to shelter in place with their abusers. 

In June 2020, a representative from the Crime Victim Center reported “in April 2020 there was a 225% increase in domestic violence calls in the county and a 25% increase in the city." 

If you are a victim of domestic violence, visit www.startherestl.org, for a list of organizations that can help, or call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at (800) 656-4673.

The St. Louis County Police Department investigated the case.

Miamisburg man pleads guilty to coercing minors online

 Defendant, a registered sex offender, solicited more than 170 minors online

DAYTON – Steven Shawn Smith, 48, of Miamisburg, Ohio, pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court today to attempting to coerce a minor while registered as a sex offender.

Parties involved in Smith’s case have recommended a sentence of 25 years in prison.

According to his plea, Smith created nine online dating profiles with the names “Sammy” and “Shaw.” From April 2020 through October 2020, Smith communicated with an undercover FBI agent posing as a minor. Smith requested nude images from the undercover agent on multiple occasions. The defendant also sent images of his nude genitalia to the undercover agent.

In one communication, when the undercover agent refused to send nude photos, Smith said, “I know that you don’t want to send me those pictures but I was hoping that you would understand just how much it would mean to me and how close it would bring us.”

Court documents detail that Smith discussed meeting with the undercover agent to engage in sexually explicit conduct and sent the officer $75 via Cash App so that the purported minor could buy a one-way bus ticket to Ohio.

In addition to communicating with the undercover agent, Smith messaged more than 170 other online users who identified themselves as minors. He received sexually explicit images from at least 21 of the purported minors and sent nude images of himself to at least 70 users.

Smith was convicted in 1994 in Athens County Common Pleas Court of one count of rape of a child, and as a result, is required to register as a sex offender.

David M. DeVillers, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Ohio, and Chris Hoffman, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Cincinnati Division, announced the plea entered into today before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Newman. Assistant Deputy Criminal Chief Laura I. Clemmens and Assistant United States Attorney Rob Painter are representing the United States in this case.

Connecticut Mother of Three Sentenced to 14 Years for Traveling to Pennsylvania to Attempt to Have Sex with Teenager

 PHILADELPHIA – Acting United States Attorney Jennifer Arbittier Williams announced that Sarah Norton, 41, of Jewett City, Connecticut, was sentenced to 14 years in prison, followed by 20 years of supervised release by United States District Court Judge Joseph P. Leeson for child exploitation offenses stemming from her sexually explicit interactions with a 14-year-old boy.

In December 2019, Norton was found guilty after a three-day trial of one count of attempted enticement of a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity, and one count of traveling to engage in illicit sexual conduct with a minor.

The defendant, a mother of three, met the victim while “gaming” online. She then used online and cell phone communications to attempt to seduce the victim into engaging in sexually explicit contact. In late 2017, Norton traveled from her home in Connecticut to Pennsylvania to meet with the boy for sex in a hotel room that she had rented in the vicinity of Allentown, PA. Norton’s plan was foiled after the victim’s father became suspicious of the messages the victim had on his cell phone and interrupted the plan.

“Sarah Norton deliberately and aggressively manipulated a 14-year-old boy, a child that was around the same age as her own children, for her own sexually deviant motives,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Williams. “Her predatory behavior is difficult to comprehend; as a mother herself, she knew the damage she was causing and simply did not care. Our Office will continue to investigate and prosecute sexual predators like the defendant so that they can no longer harm innocent children.”

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 United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Upper Macungie Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sherri A. Stephan.

Ohio County man faces child pornography charge

 WHEELING, WEST VIRGINIA – Ryan Nicholas Wolf, of Wheeling, West Virginia, appeared in federal court today on a criminal complaint alleging child pornography possession, U.S. Attorney Bill Powell announced.

The complaint was filed today after the Wheeling Island home of Wolf, 34, was searched and officers found evidence of child pornography. According to the complaint, the search found a thumb drive containing over a thousand images of what appeared to be juveniles. Wolf was charged with “Possession of Child Pornography.” He was arrested, appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge James P. Mazzone, and released.

Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Perri is prosecuting the case on behalf of the government. The Department of Homeland Security and Wheeling Police Department are investigating. 

A complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

Pittsburgh-area Man Headed to Halfway House for Damaging Pittsburgh Police Vehicle during Protest

 PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A suburban Pittsburgh resident has been sentenced in federal court to one day in the custody of the U.S. Marshals, six months in a halfway house, three years of supervised release, and $1,000 restitution to be paid to Pittsburgh Police for the destruction of one of their motor vehicles on his conviction of Obstruction of Law Enforcement During Civil Disorder, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.

Senior United States District Judge Arthur J. Schwab imposed the sentence on Brian Jordan Bartels, 21, Allison Park, PA 15101.

According to information presented to the court, on May 30, 2020, Bartels interfered with and obstructed the Pittsburgh Police during the course of the civil disorder that occurred in connection with the protests which took place in downtown Pittsburgh on that day. In particular, Bartels was convicted of initiating the destruction of a marked police vehicle that was parked on Centre Avenue above the PPG Arena. Bartels admitted to spray painting the vehicle, breaking a window out of the vehicle and smashing the windshield of the vehicle. Bartels also acknowledged that, when he did this, his actions encouraged others in the crowd to join in the destruction of the police vehicle. Several members of the crowd set fire to that vehicle shortly after Bartels left the area.

"Bartels’s actions incited riots in which police cars were burned, police officers were attacked and millions of dollars in property damage occurred in the city of Pittsburgh," said U.S. Attorney Brady. "This office will protect ordered liberty and apply the rule of law to those who would use the cover of protest to incite violence, whether in Pittsburgh or at our national’s Capitol."

"Inciting violence is not something we will tolerate," said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. "The actions and decisions Mr. Bartels made that day, while he said were a mistake, should be a reminder to everyone of the consequences that come with putting people in danger. A federal felony conviction carries with it a life time of explanation. I hope this makes others think twice before deciding to incite violence."

Assistant United States Attorney Shaun E. Sweeney prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.

United States Attorney Brady commended the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Pittsburgh Police for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Bartels.

South Carolina Woman Pleads Guilty To Assaulting A Postal Worker

 MACON, Ga. – A Charleston, South Carolina, woman is facing a maximum eight years in prison for attacking a postal worker, said Peter D. Leary, the Acting U.S. Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia.

Kelly Lynne McCormick, 33, of Charleston, formerly of Bonaire, Georgia, pleaded guilty to one count assault on a federal employee before U.S. District Judge Tilman E. “Tripp” Self, III. McCormick faces a maximum eight years in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for April 6.

On April 23, 2019, a female United States Postal Service (USPS) employee was on duty delivering mail at the Exxon convenience store at 4290 Dellwood Avenue in Macon. After parking her USPS vehicle in front of the store and delivering mail to the store clerk, the USPS employee received consent from the clerk to use the store’s bathroom. The USPS employee was given the key to the bathroom and went inside. A clearly intoxicated female, later identified as McCormick, was pacing back and forth outside the bathroom occupied by the USPS employee.

As the USPS employee exited the bathroom and attempted to shut the bathroom door and lock it, McCormick tried to force her way into the bathroom without having first gained consent from the store clerk. The USPS employee attempted to shut the door and eventually had to push McCormick back away from her once McCormick became angry and screamed in the USPS employee’s face. The two women grappled briefly before they pushed one another away and disengaged. The USPS employee then went about her business as McCormick stormed out of the store. As the USPS employee walked to her vehicle, McCormick began yelling at her. McCormick then charged at the USPS employee and struck her in the head with a closed fist and briefly grappled with her until several bystanders were able to separate the two women. The entire incident was recorded on the convenience store’s surveillance camera system.

“Attacks on federal postal employees will not be tolerated. Those who harm a postal worker will face prosecution and the possibility of federal prison, without parole,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Leary. “I want to thank the U.S. Postal Inspection Service for its work investigating this case.”

“U.S. Postal Inspectors are committed to the safety of our Postal employees and will vigorously investigate all acts of violence against our employees and USPS infrastructure,” said USPS Miami Division Inspector In Charge, Tony Gomez.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven Ouzts is prosecuting the case for the Government. Questions can be directed to Pamela Lightsey, Public Information Officer, U.S. Attorney’s Office, at (478) 621-2603 or Melissa Hodges, Public Affairs Officer (Contractor), U.S. Attorney’s Office, at (478) 765-2362.

New Bern Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Distribution and Tax Fraud

 WILMINGTON, N.C. – A New Bern woman pleaded guilty today to Distribution of Fifty Grams or More of Methamphetamine and Aiding and Abetting (Count One) and Conspiracy to Defraud the Internal Revenue Service (Count Two).  

According to court documents, on January 22, 2020, Antoinette Charmane Becton, age 40, aided and abetted the distribution of fifty grams or more of methamphetamine.

Law enforcement agents used a confidential informant and an undercover agent to arrange the purchase of one pound (approximately 453 grams) of methamphetamine from Becton, who stated that she would reach out to her supplier to obtain the methamphetamine.

Becton and her supplier then met with the confidential informant and undercover agent in a parking lot in Greenville, North Carolina where the transaction was completed. The drugs were field tested for the presence of methamphetamine, with positive results. 

Prior to this crime, Becton owned and operated a tax return business known as Carolina Tax Services in New Bern. From 2014 to 2019, Becton conspired with others to electronically file false tax returns with the IRS.  

By including false wage income, Becton caused the IRS to issue refunds the taxpayers were not entitled to. 

At today’s hearing, the government proffered that Becton caused the filing of at least 489 false returns, seeking approximately $3.2 million in fraudulent refunds. 

Becton faces a mandatory minimum of five years and maximum of 40 years in prison for the methamphetamine distribution offense. She faces a maximum of five years’ imprisonment for the tax fraud conspiracy when sentenced.

Robert J. Higdon, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after Chief U.S. District Judge Richard E. Myers II accepted the plea. The Greenville Police Department, the Craven County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Internal Revenue Service are investigating the case and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Scott Lemmon and Susan Menzer are prosecuting the case.

Waterbury Heroin Trafficker Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison

 John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that KEITH JORDAN, also known as “Knowledge,” 52, of Waterbury, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Janet C. Hall to 120 months of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for trafficking heroin.

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, this matter stems from a joint investigation headed by the DEA New Haven Task Force and the Waterbury and Naugatuck Police Departments.  The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, physical surveillance and controlled purchases of narcotics, revealed that Jordan was receiving large quantities of heroin from various suppliers and selling the drug to other drug distributors and street-level customers.  Jordan also purchased and distributed cocaine.

On March 13, 2019, a grand jury in Hartford returned an indictment charging Jordan and 28 other individuals with various offenses related to the distribution of heroin, fentanyl, cocaine and crack cocaine.

Jordan and several codefendants were arrested on March 20, 2019.  In association with the arrests, investigators seized approximately 3,000 bags of heroin, 400 grams of cocaine, 350 grams of fentanyl/heroin mixed, 400 grams of heroin, 10 grams of crack, 20 pounds of marijuana, fentanyl patches, a one-kilogram press, four handguns, approximately $120,000 in cash and four vehicles.

On January 23, 2020, Jordan pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, one kilogram or more of heroin.

Jordan, who is released on a $250,000 bond, is required to report to prison on March 31, 2021.

This investigation has been conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration New Haven Task Force, Waterbury Police Department and Naugatuck Police Department, with the critical assistance of the U.S. Secret Service, New York Field Office.  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 S. Dave Vatti and Nathaniel J. Gentile through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

Nashville Murder Suspect Charged With Federal Firearms Violation

 NASHVILLE, Tenn. – January 27, 2021 – Robert Rasean Smith, 28, of Nashville, was charged yesterday with being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm, announced U.S. Attorney Don Cochran for the Middle District of Tennessee.   

According to the criminal complaint, Smith was wanted for the murder of an individual on November 14, 2020, outside of the Wireless Z store on D.B. Todd, Jr. Boulevard in North Nashville.  On December 5, 2020, officers with the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department located Smith sleeping in a car in the area of Haynes Park Court and arrested him.  At the time of his arrest, Smith had a .45 caliber pistol in his waistband.  Smith is a convicted felon and under federal law, is prohibited from possessing a firearm.

Smith’s prior felony convictions listed in the complaint include convictions in May 2011 for attempted aggravated burglary, for which he received a two-year prison sentence; aggravated robbery, for which he received an eight-year prison sentence; and evading arrest, for which he was sentenced to two years in prison. 

If convicted of the instant offense, Smith faces up to 10 years in federal prison.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Metropolitan Nashville Police Department.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert E. McGuire is prosecuting the case. 

The defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Tuesday, January 26, 2021

Stratford Man Sentenced to More Than 5 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm Offenses

 John H. Durham, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that LUIS MARTINEZ, also known as “Macho,” 55, of Stratford, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Alvin W. Thompson to 63 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for narcotics distribution and ammunition 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 the summer of 2017, members of the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and Bridgeport Police Department began investigating individuals who were distributing narcotics in and around Bridgeport.  The investigation, which included the use of court-authorized wiretaps and controlled purchases of narcotics, resulted in federal charges against 19 defendants and the seizure of narcotics, items used to process and package drugs for street sale, eight firearms, and more than $360,000 in cash.  The investigation revealed that Martinez was supplying another narcotics distributor with cocaine and opioid pills.

A subsequent investigation of an unrelated drug distributor revealed that Martinez was also acquiring and distributing heroin.

Martinez was arrested on November 6, 2018.  On that date, investigators searched Martinez’s residence and seized boxes of .45 caliber hollow-point ammunition and $11,132 in cash.

Martinez has been detained since his arrest.  On October 25, 2019, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin, and one count of possession of ammunition by a convicted felon.

Martinez’s criminal history includes state convictions for manslaughter, assault, weapons and larceny offenses, and a federal conviction stemming from his role in a crack cocaine distribution ring.

Judge Thompson ordered Martinez to forfeit the cash and ammunition seized on the date of his arrest.  Martinez previously forfeited more than $56,000 in cash that he had shipped to a drug supplier in California, but was seized by law enforcement at a parcel delivery hub.

This matter is being investigated by the FBI’s Bridgeport Safe Streets Task Force and the Bridgeport Police Department, as well as the DEA, Connecticut State Police, and the Stratford, Norwalk, Seymour and Trumbull Police Departments.

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karen L. Peck and Patrick J. Doherty through the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) Program.  OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.  Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

Charlotte Man Is Sentenced To 17 ½ Years For Child Pornography

 The Defendant Continued to Communicate Online with an Underage Female While on Pretrial Release on Federal Charges

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – U.S. District Judge Robert J. Conrad Jr. sentenced today George Malcolm Hargrove, 30, of Charlotte, to 17 ½ years in prison on child pornography charges, announced Andrew Murray, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of North Carolina. Judge Conrad also ordered Hargrove to serve 30 years supervised release and to register as a sex offender after he is released from prison.

Robert R. Wells, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Charlotte Division, joins U.S. Attorney Murray in making today’s announcement.  

According to court documents and today’s sentencing hearing, on or about June 11-12, 2018, the FBI determined that an individual, later identified as Hargrove, was using an online file sharing network to exchange child pornography with another user. Court records show that, in October 2018, the FBI executed a search warrant at Hargrove’s residence and seized Hargrove’s laptop and other devices. A forensic examination of the seized items revealed that Hargrove possessed hundreds of images and videos depicting the sexual abuse of minors, including prepubescent children.  Hargrove was arrested on state offenses. In April 2019, Hargrove was indicted on federal child pornography charges and was released on pretrial probation.

On July 19, 2019, the U.S. Probation Office conducted an inspection of Hargrove’s residence. U.S. probation officers discovered that Hargrove was using the internet to contact a 14-year-old girl. According to court records, Hargrove, who knew the age of the minor, began communicating with her online prior to his arrest, and continued his communication with her while on pretrial release.

On October 7, 2019, Hargrove pleaded guilty to possession, distribution and attempted receipt of child pornography. He is in federal custody and will be transferred to the custody of the federal Bureau of Prisons upon designation of a federal facility.

In making today’s announcement, U.S. Attorney Murray commended the FBI for their investigation of the case and thanked the U.S. Probation Office for their invaluable assistance.

Assistant United States Attorneys Emily Wasserman and Cortney Randall, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Charlotte, prosecuted the case.

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

Leader of Portland-Area Prescription Drug Trafficking Scheme Sentenced to Federal Prison

 PORTLAND, Ore.—A Portland man was sentenced to federal prison today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute oxycodone fraudulently obtained from local pharmacies.

Chase Adam Conway, 36, was sentenced to four years in federal prison and three years’ supervised release.

According to court documents, in June 2018, agents from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) began investigating Conway. They learned that Conway, who had a long history of committing drug frauds, was enlisting female runners to fraudulently obtain oxycodone from pharmacies in the Portland area. Conway would deliberately seek out runners who were heavily addicted to oxycodone and willing to risk criminal liability in exchange for a portion of the prescriptions filled or a small amount of cash.

Conway obtained medical prescription paper and used a home printer to place the names and DEA registration numbers of real doctors on the prescriptions. He would then provide his co-conspirators with fraudulent identification to use in conjunction with the fake prescriptions at various pharmacies. After obtaining the oxycodone pills, Conway redistributed to them for profit to large quantity vendors and street customers.

In the fall of 2018, agents tracked Conway’s car and obtained evidence from several pharmacies where he and his accomplices filled prescriptions. In February 2019, agents executed a search warrant on Conway’s rented room and mobile phone, seizing prescription paper, lists of runners and pharmacies, doctors’ names and DEA numbers, and dozens of communications call logs and text messages with various co-defendants.

On October 6, 2020, Conway was charged by criminal information with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute oxycodone and, one week later, he pleaded guilty. As part of his plea agreement, Conway is also subject to a $10,000 money judgement.

This case was investigated by the DEA. It was prosecuted by Kemp Strickland, Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon.

Member of White Supremacist Prison Gang Guilty of Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering

 A Texas man pleaded guilty today to violent gang-related activities in the Eastern District of Texas.

According to information presented in court and contained in court filings, Glynnwood Derrick, 46, of Texarkana, joined the Aryan Circle (AC) while in state prison in Texas in 2000, and received his “patch,” or gang tattoo, in 2004 while serving a sentence in federal prison. Derrick held various ranks within the organization over the years, including the ranks of Captain and Major. Derrick attended “church,” or gang meetings, on numerous occasions at the homes of other AC members.

The AC is a violent, white supremacist organization that operates inside federal prisons across the country and outside prisons in states including Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana, and Missouri. The AC enforces its rules and promotes discipline among its members, prospects and associates through murder, attempted murder, assault, and threats against those who violate the rules or pose a threat to the organization. Members, and oftentimes associates, are required to follow the orders of higher-ranking members without question.

Prior to Oct. 2, 2016, AC members learned that an AC member wanted to switch his gang affiliation, or “patch over,” from the AC to a different gang. AC members were ordered to attack the former member in order to “X” him, or attack and remove him from the gang, because it violated the AC’s rules to join another organization. A meeting was held at an AC member’s home in the Tyler, Texas area where AC members planned the logistics of the assault.

On Oct. 2, 2016, Derrick and other AC members met at a park near Tyler, Texas, where they had planned to attack the former member, who was also present. Multiple AC members violently beat the victim, including kicking the victim in the head while he was on the ground.  This attack resulted in the victim seeking medical care.

Derrick will be sentenced at a date to be determined.

Nicholas L. McQuaid, Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Nicholas J. Ganjei, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Texas, made the announcement.

This case is part of a larger investigation into the Aryan Circle by an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) consisting of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Drug Enforcement Administration; Federal Bureau of Prisons; Texas Department of Public Safety; Houston Police Department-Gang Division; Montgomery County (TX) Precinct One Constable’s Office; U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; Texas Department of Criminal Justice; New Jersey Department of Corrections-Special Investigations Division; Indiana State Police; Fort Smith (AR) Police Department; Arkansas Department of Corrections; Arnold (MO) Police Department; Jefferson County (MO) Sheriff’s Department; St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department; St. Louis County (MO) Police Department; Indiana Department of Corrections; Carrollton (TX) Police Department; Waller (TX) Police Department; Montgomery County (TX) Sheriff’s Office; Travis County (TX) Sheriff’s Office; Tarrant County (TX) Sheriff’s Office; Evangeline Parish (LA) Sheriff’s Office; Smith County (TX) Sheriff’s Office; McCurtain County (OK) Sheriff’s Office; Montgomery County (TX) District Attorney’s Office; Liberty County (TX) District Attorney’s Office; Harris County (TX) District Attorney’s Office; Mercer County (NJ) District Attorney’s Office; Evangeline Parish (LA) District Attorney’s Office; and the Sebastian County (AR) District Attorney’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Bethany Lipman of the Criminal Division’s Organized Crime and Gang Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Rapp of the Eastern District of Texas.

Former Wheeler H.S. Teacher Sentenced To 144 Months in Prison For Receiving Child Pornography

HAMMOND - Brian Kunze, 32, of Valparaiso, Indiana, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Philip P. Simon following his guilty plea to receiving child pornography, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Bell. 

Mr. Kunze was sentenced to 144 months (12 years) in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release and ordered to pay $30,000 ($10,000 each) in restitution to the identified victims of this case.

According to documents in the case, Mr. Kunze, a former Wheeler High School teacher, used his position of authority at the school to cause one of his minor students to take and send him sexually explicit photos. A digital forensic examination of devices seized by federal law enforcement agents from Mr. Kunze’s home also revealed that he knowingly obtained sexually explicit photos of other minors whom he knew to be under the age of 18 because they attended the school where he taught. In total, Mr. Kunze admitting to knowingly receiving and possessing over 150 images depicting minors being caused to engage in sexually explicit conduct.   

This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with the assistance of the Porter County Sheriff’s Department and Michigan City Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jill Koster.

 

Rochester Woman Pleads Guilty To Production Of Child Pornography Involving 8 And 5-Year-Old Children

ROCHESTER, N.Y. - U.S. Attorney James P. Kennedy, Jr. announced today that Rebecca Wilson, 31, of Rochester, NY, pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Frank P. Geraci, Jr. to two counts of production of child pornography. The charges carry a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison, a maximum of 30 years, and a $250,000 fine. 

Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa M. Marangola, who is handling the case, stated that between June and August 2018, the defendant engaged in an ongoing pattern of sexual abuse, subjecting an eight-year-old to multiple instances of sexual acts, while producing multiple videos and images of those sexual acts. Between January and April 2020, Wilson engaged in another ongoing pattern of sexual abuse, subjecting a five-year-old to multiple instances of sexual acts, during which the defendant once again produced video and images.

Wilson made these videos and images at the request of James Oliver Young and transferred them to him via Facebook messenger. Charges remain pending against Young. The fact that a defendant has been charged with a crime is merely an accusation and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.  

The plea is the result of an investigation by the New York State Police, under the direction of Major Barry Chase, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent-in-Charge Stephen Belongia.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 14, 2021, at 3:00 p.m. before Chief Judge Geraci.

Brookings Man Sentenced for Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography

 United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced that a Brookings, South Dakota, man convicted of Distribution and Receipt of Child Pornography was sentenced on January 25, 2021, by U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.

Tyler Powers, age 26, was sentenced to 75 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and a special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund in the amount of $100.

Powers was indicted by a federal grand jury on October 8, 2019.  He pleaded guilty on July 20, 2020.

The conviction stemmed from internet activity on May 30, 2019, when Powers downloaded child pornography onto his computer.  When law enforcement searched his residence, they discovered an extensive collection of child pornography on an external hard drive. 

This case was investigated by the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeffrey C. Clapper prosecuted the case.

Powers was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.