The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, National Institute of Justice (NIJ) is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding for research and development to enhance crime laboratories’ ability to identify, characterize, capture, visualize, analyze and preserve impression evidence and pattern evidence. This program furthers the Department’s mission by sponsoring research to provide objective, independent, evidence-based knowledge d tools to meet the challenges of crime and justice, particularly at the State and local levels.
More Information
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/sl000927.pdf
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
2010 Survey of Campus Law Enforcement Agencies
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs, Bureau of Justice Statistics (BJS) is pleased to announce that it is seeking proposals to administer the 2010 Survey of Campus Law Enforcement Agencies. As the principal federal statistical agency in the U.S.
Department of Justice, BJS is responsible for the collection, analysis, publication, and dissemination of statistical information on crime, criminal offenders, victims of crime, and the operations of criminal justice systems at all levels of government. This data collection program furthers the mission of the Department and the OJP, by working in partnership with the justice community to identify the most pressing challenges confronting the justice system and to provide state-of-the-art knowledge and information in support of innovative strategies and approaches for dealing with these challenges.
More Information
http://bjs.ojp.usdoj.gov/content/pub/pdf/sclea10sol.pdf
Department of Justice, BJS is responsible for the collection, analysis, publication, and dissemination of statistical information on crime, criminal offenders, victims of crime, and the operations of criminal justice systems at all levels of government. This data collection program furthers the mission of the Department and the OJP, by working in partnership with the justice community to identify the most pressing challenges confronting the justice system and to provide state-of-the-art knowledge and information in support of innovative strategies and approaches for dealing with these challenges.
More Information
http://bjs.ojp.usdoj.gov/content/pub/pdf/sclea10sol.pdf
Two More “Wig Bandits” Sentenced to Prison
January 19, 2010 - Two of the “Wig Bandits,” Marco Antonio Serrano, 19, a Mexican citizen living in Phoenix, and Sabrina Martina Feliciano, 39, of Phoenix, were sentenced today to federal prison by U.S. District Judge David G. Campbell. Serrano, who pled guilty on July 14, 2009 to two counts of Armed Bank Robbery and one count of Use of a Firearm During a Crime of Violence, was sentenced to 22 years. Feliciano, who pled guilty on June 24, 2009 to one count of Armed Bank Robbery, was sentenced to eight years.
Marco Serrano was one of the armed “Wig Bandits” in each of the seven armed bank robberies the group committed in the summer of 2008. He brandished a loaded handgun as he jumped teller counters and threatened to kill the tellers as he stole money. Sabrina Feliciano, the wife of the group’s leader, “cased” banks for the group, bought disguises, and was a getaway driver. Both Serrano and Feliciano received some of the robbery proceeds for their work.
All but one of the seven co-defendants have been sentenced. The remaining co-defendant and leader of the group, Julio Cesar Feliciano, Jr., 46, of Phoenix, was convicted at trial of five armed bank robberies involving multiple firearms and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 82 years. He will be sentenced March 1, 2010 by Judge Campbell.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Glendale Police Department, Phoenix Police Department, and Avondale Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Alison S. Bachus and Dimitra H. Sampson, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
Marco Serrano was one of the armed “Wig Bandits” in each of the seven armed bank robberies the group committed in the summer of 2008. He brandished a loaded handgun as he jumped teller counters and threatened to kill the tellers as he stole money. Sabrina Feliciano, the wife of the group’s leader, “cased” banks for the group, bought disguises, and was a getaway driver. Both Serrano and Feliciano received some of the robbery proceeds for their work.
All but one of the seven co-defendants have been sentenced. The remaining co-defendant and leader of the group, Julio Cesar Feliciano, Jr., 46, of Phoenix, was convicted at trial of five armed bank robberies involving multiple firearms and faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 82 years. He will be sentenced March 1, 2010 by Judge Campbell.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Glendale Police Department, Phoenix Police Department, and Avondale Police Department. The prosecution is being handled by Alison S. Bachus and Dimitra H. Sampson, Assistant U.S. Attorneys, District of Arizona, Phoenix.
Capital Case Litigation Initiative
FY 2010 Competitive Grant Announcement
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under the Capital Case Litigation Initiative. This program furthers the Department’s mission by providing capital litigation training to improve the quality of representation and reliability of verdicts in state capital cases.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10CCLIsol.pdf
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under the Capital Case Litigation Initiative. This program furthers the Department’s mission by providing capital litigation training to improve the quality of representation and reliability of verdicts in state capital cases.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10CCLIsol.pdf
Wrongful Conviction Review Program
FY 2010 Competitive Grant Announcement
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under the Wrongful Conviction Review Program. This program furthers the Department’s mission by providing assistance to public and non-profit entities that seek justice for those who have been wrongfully convicted.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10WrongfulConvictionSol.pdf
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under the Wrongful Conviction Review Program. This program furthers the Department’s mission by providing assistance to public and non-profit entities that seek justice for those who have been wrongfully convicted.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10WrongfulConvictionSol.pdf
Second Chance Act Adult and Juvenile Offender Reentry Demonstration Projects
FY 2010 Competitive Grant Announcement
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs’ (OJP) Bureau of Justice Assistance and Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency and Prevention are pleased to announce that they are seeking applications for funding for the Second Chance Act Adult and Juvenile Offender Reentry Initiative. This program furthers the Department’s commitment to providing services and programs to help facilitate the successful reintegration of offenders as they return to their communities.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10BJA_JJ_SecondChanceDemonstrationSol.pdf
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs’ (OJP) Bureau of Justice Assistance and Office of Juvenile Justice Delinquency and Prevention are pleased to announce that they are seeking applications for funding for the Second Chance Act Adult and Juvenile Offender Reentry Initiative. This program furthers the Department’s commitment to providing services and programs to help facilitate the successful reintegration of offenders as they return to their communities.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10BJA_JJ_SecondChanceDemonstrationSol.pdf
Developing and Enhancing Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification (SAVIN) Programs
FY 2010 Competitive Grant Announcement
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under the Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification Program. This program furthers the Department’s mission of assisting victims of crime by providing information regarding their offender’s custody status and court events related to their case.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10SAVINsol.pdf
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Bureau of Justice Assistance (BJA) is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under the Statewide Automated Victim Information and Notification Program. This program furthers the Department’s mission of assisting victims of crime by providing information regarding their offender’s custody status and court events related to their case.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10SAVINsol.pdf
Adult Drug Court Discretionary Grant Program
FY 2010 Competitive Grant Announcement
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs' Bureau of Justice Assistance is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under the Drug Court Discretionary Grant Program. This program furthers the Department’s mission by providing resources to state, local, and tribal governments and state and local courts to establish or enhance drug courts and systems for nonviolent substance-abusing offenders.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10AdultDrugCourtSol.pdf
The U.S. Department of Justice, Office of Justice Programs' Bureau of Justice Assistance is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under the Drug Court Discretionary Grant Program. This program furthers the Department’s mission by providing resources to state, local, and tribal governments and state and local courts to establish or enhance drug courts and systems for nonviolent substance-abusing offenders.
More Information
http://www.ojp.usdoj.gov/BJA/grant/10AdultDrugCourtSol.pdf
U.S. Marshals Arrest Two California Parolees Suspected of Murder
January 19, 2010 - Yesterday afternoon at 12:30 PM, two fugitives wanted in California for Parole Violations and as suspects in a Homicide, were arrested in Springfield, Oregon by the U.S. Marshals Oregon Fugitive Task Force (OFTF) and Springfield Police Department (SPD). Robert Reil, a 30-year old male, and Amour Villamora, a 30-year old female, were arrested on “U” street in Springfield.
The investigation began in the City of Orange (Orange County, CA.) after Villamore and Reil were believed to have been involved in a robbery that took place on January 3, 2010 at approximately 10:50 PM during which one individual was shot and killed. The investigation led authorities in California to believe that the two suspects were either fleeing towards, or currently located in Oregon.
The OFTF joined the chase on January 12, 2010, and with the help of the Springfield Police Department, they gathered information leading to the location of the two fugitives in Springfield. When the OFTF and Officers moved in for the takedown, Reil was apprehended as he ran out the back of the residence and Villamore was found hiding in a bedroom closet.
The U.S. Marshals Oregon Fugitive Task Force is comprised of investigators from the U.S. Marshals Service, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Portland Police Bureau, Oregon State Police, Multnomah County Probation & Parole, Clackamas County Probation & Parole, and the Oregon National Guard. For more information you can go to http://www.usmarshals.gov/.
The investigation began in the City of Orange (Orange County, CA.) after Villamore and Reil were believed to have been involved in a robbery that took place on January 3, 2010 at approximately 10:50 PM during which one individual was shot and killed. The investigation led authorities in California to believe that the two suspects were either fleeing towards, or currently located in Oregon.
The OFTF joined the chase on January 12, 2010, and with the help of the Springfield Police Department, they gathered information leading to the location of the two fugitives in Springfield. When the OFTF and Officers moved in for the takedown, Reil was apprehended as he ran out the back of the residence and Villamore was found hiding in a bedroom closet.
The U.S. Marshals Oregon Fugitive Task Force is comprised of investigators from the U.S. Marshals Service, Washington County Sheriff’s Office, Portland Police Bureau, Oregon State Police, Multnomah County Probation & Parole, Clackamas County Probation & Parole, and the Oregon National Guard. For more information you can go to http://www.usmarshals.gov/.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Great Jobs for Criminal Justice Majors
You've worked hard for that criminal justice degree. Now what? Sometimes the choice of careers can seem endless; the most difficult part of a job search is narrowing down your options.
Great Jobs for Criminal Justice Majors will help you choose the right career out of the myriad possibilities at your disposal. It provides detailed profiles of careers in your field along with the basic skills necessary to begin a focused job search. You'll soon be on the fast track to landing a job that satisfies your personal, professional, and practical needs.
Great Jobs for Criminal Justice Majors will help you:
• Determine the occupation that's best suited for you
• Craft a résumé and cover letter that stand out from the rest
• Learn from practicing professionals about everyday life on the job
• Become familiar with current statistics on salaries and trends within the profession
Great Jobs for Criminal Justice Majors will help you choose the right career out of the myriad possibilities at your disposal. It provides detailed profiles of careers in your field along with the basic skills necessary to begin a focused job search. You'll soon be on the fast track to landing a job that satisfies your personal, professional, and practical needs.
Great Jobs for Criminal Justice Majors will help you:
• Determine the occupation that's best suited for you
• Craft a résumé and cover letter that stand out from the rest
• Learn from practicing professionals about everyday life on the job
• Become familiar with current statistics on salaries and trends within the profession
National Center for Disaster Fraud to Coordinate Haitian Fraud Complaints
The FBI and the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) have established a telephone hotline to report suspected Haitian earthquake relief fraud. The number is (866) 720-5721. The phone line is staffed by a live operator 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also e-mail information directly to disaster@leo.gov.
The National Center for Disaster Fraud was originally established by the Department of Justice to investigate, prosecute, and deter fraud in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, when billions of dollars in federal disaster relief poured into the Gulf Coast region. Its mission has expanded to include suspected fraud from any natural or man-made disaster. More than 20 federal agencies, including the FBI, participate in the NCDF, allowing it to act as a centralized clearinghouse of information related to Haitian relief fraud.
The FBI continues to remind the public to apply a critical eye and do their due diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations on behalf of Haitian victims. Solicitations can originate from e-mails, websites, door-to-door collections, mailings and telephone calls, and similar methods.
Therefore, before making a donation of any kind, consumers should adhere to certain guidelines, including the following:
• Do not respond to any unsolicited (spam) incoming e-mails, including clicking links contained within those messages.
• Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as surviving victims or officials asking for donations via e-mail or social networking sites.
• Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.
• Rather than following a purported link to a website, verify the legitimacy of non-profit organizations by utilizing various Internet-based resources that may assist in confirming the group’s existence and its non-profit status.
• Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files, because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.
• To ensure contributions are received and used for intended purposes, make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
• Do not be pressured into making contributions, as reputable charities do not use such tactics.
• Do not give your personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions. Providing such information may compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft.
• Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by debit or credit card, or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals
If you believe you have been a victim of fraud from a person or an organization soliciting relief funds on behalf of Haitian earthquake victims, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud at (866) 720-5721. You can also fax information to (225) 334-4707 or e-mail it to disaster@leo.gov.
You can also report suspicious e-mail solicitations or fraudulent websites to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at http://www.ic3.gov.
The National Center for Disaster Fraud was originally established by the Department of Justice to investigate, prosecute, and deter fraud in the wake of Hurricane Katrina, when billions of dollars in federal disaster relief poured into the Gulf Coast region. Its mission has expanded to include suspected fraud from any natural or man-made disaster. More than 20 federal agencies, including the FBI, participate in the NCDF, allowing it to act as a centralized clearinghouse of information related to Haitian relief fraud.
The FBI continues to remind the public to apply a critical eye and do their due diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations on behalf of Haitian victims. Solicitations can originate from e-mails, websites, door-to-door collections, mailings and telephone calls, and similar methods.
Therefore, before making a donation of any kind, consumers should adhere to certain guidelines, including the following:
• Do not respond to any unsolicited (spam) incoming e-mails, including clicking links contained within those messages.
• Be skeptical of individuals representing themselves as surviving victims or officials asking for donations via e-mail or social networking sites.
• Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.
• Rather than following a purported link to a website, verify the legitimacy of non-profit organizations by utilizing various Internet-based resources that may assist in confirming the group’s existence and its non-profit status.
• Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files, because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.
• To ensure contributions are received and used for intended purposes, make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
• Do not be pressured into making contributions, as reputable charities do not use such tactics.
• Do not give your personal or financial information to anyone who solicits contributions. Providing such information may compromise your identity and make you vulnerable to identity theft.
• Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by debit or credit card, or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals
If you believe you have been a victim of fraud from a person or an organization soliciting relief funds on behalf of Haitian earthquake victims, contact the National Center for Disaster Fraud at (866) 720-5721. You can also fax information to (225) 334-4707 or e-mail it to disaster@leo.gov.
You can also report suspicious e-mail solicitations or fraudulent websites to the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at http://www.ic3.gov.
Statement by Attorney General Eric Holder on MLK Day
Attorney General Eric Holder released the following statement today in recognition of Martin Luther King Day:
"Each year, Martin Luther King Day provides an opportunity for all Americans to rededicate ourselves to Dr. King’s dream of racial, social, and economic justice. Today is also a reminder of the power and importance of service to others. Dr. King’s example, and his enduring legacy, offer proof that the contributions of a single person can help to improve and inspire an entire nation.
"Without question, there are great needs to be met in America and beyond. Just this week, with the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti, we have been reminded that the work of helping others often extends beyond our borders. In the aftermath of this disaster, the outpouring of compassion, resources, and relief-delivery efforts from across our country are evidence that, even during tough economic times, the American spirit of giving remains strong.
"One of the most meaningful ways we can give life to Dr. King’s dreams is by seeking out opportunities to serve and empower others. Today, I am volunteering with DC’s Youth Service Opportunities Project to prepare and serve breakfast to the homeless. I encourage everyone who has a holiday from work or class to help make sure that Martin Luther King Day is not simply a ‘day off.’, it is truly a ‘day on.’ Together, we can ensure it becomes a day of national service and an occasion to carry on Dr. King’s work today and into the future."
To search for local volunteer opportunities, please visit: Serve.gov/mlkday.
"Each year, Martin Luther King Day provides an opportunity for all Americans to rededicate ourselves to Dr. King’s dream of racial, social, and economic justice. Today is also a reminder of the power and importance of service to others. Dr. King’s example, and his enduring legacy, offer proof that the contributions of a single person can help to improve and inspire an entire nation.
"Without question, there are great needs to be met in America and beyond. Just this week, with the catastrophic earthquake in Haiti, we have been reminded that the work of helping others often extends beyond our borders. In the aftermath of this disaster, the outpouring of compassion, resources, and relief-delivery efforts from across our country are evidence that, even during tough economic times, the American spirit of giving remains strong.
"One of the most meaningful ways we can give life to Dr. King’s dreams is by seeking out opportunities to serve and empower others. Today, I am volunteering with DC’s Youth Service Opportunities Project to prepare and serve breakfast to the homeless. I encourage everyone who has a holiday from work or class to help make sure that Martin Luther King Day is not simply a ‘day off.’, it is truly a ‘day on.’ Together, we can ensure it becomes a day of national service and an occasion to carry on Dr. King’s work today and into the future."
To search for local volunteer opportunities, please visit: Serve.gov/mlkday.
Saturday, January 16, 2010
Border Patrol Agents Working Calif. Checkpoint Find Marijuana in Vehicle Floor
January 15, 2010 – On January 14, El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents working the Highway 86 checkpoint seized more than 135 pounds of marijuana valued at more than $110,000. At approximately 3 p.m., a silver colored mini-van approached the primary inspection area at the Highway 86 checkpoint which is operated by Indio Station agents. The vehicle was referred to the secondary inspection.
While in secondary, a Border Patrol canine team conducted a cursory inspection of the vehicle. The canine team alerted to the trunk of the vehicle. In addition, a non-intrusive inspection of the vehicle using a large scale imaging system was conducted and an anomaly was discovered in the floor of the vehicle. A physical search of that area revealed 132 vacuum sealed bags containing a green leafy substance that tested positive for the properties of marijuana.
The driver of the mini-van, a United States citizen, was turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration along with the vehicle and marijuana.
According to El Centro Sector Chief Patrol Agent Jeffrey A. Calhoon, “This is a testament of Border Patrol’s effectiveness,” he said. “It shows how our checkpoints are a valuable tool when it comes to establishing a second line of defense for stemming the flow of dangerous narcotics into our country.”
The Web for Leaders
An ignorance of the language and capabilities of Internet-based tools creates a situation where today’s leader cannot see how their organization’s website can be fully integrated into their current organizational practices or integrated into their vision of the future.
More Information
http://leadership-online.blogspot.com/2010/01/web-for-leaders.html
More Information
http://leadership-online.blogspot.com/2010/01/web-for-leaders.html
Officers Seize 2 Tons of Marijuana in Less than 6 Hours at World Trade Bridge
January 15, 2010 – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Laredo port of entry seized nearly two tons of marijuana at World Trade Bridge. The total estimated street value for the narcotics seized is listed at almost $4 million.
The first seizure occurred on Wednesday, January 13, when a commercial shipment of furniture and clay pots in a Wabash trailer arrived for processing. CBP officers referred the shipment for intensive inspection.
A non-intrusive scan revealed anomalies within the merchandise. A CBP narcotics detection dog, “Eustuka,” assisted CBP officers by alerting to the odor of narcotics emanating from the shipment of chairs and pottery. A total of 997 bundles containing marijuana were removed from within the clay pots and pieces of furniture. The marijuana weighed approximately 2,674 pounds and is valued at $2.6 million.
The second seizure occurred just six hours later at the same bridge when a shipment of pharmaceuticals was referred for an X-ray scan that resulted in the detection of anomalies within the trailer that was hauling it. CBP officers probed the shipment and discovered 54 bundles of marijuana weighing more than 1,256 pounds and valued at $1.2 million.
Although there were no immediate arrests in these cases, investigations by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents remain ongoing. CBP officers seized the two tractors and trailers hauling the narcotics.
“The CBP officers at World Trade Bridge have started out the year with significant results in detecting illegal contraband. Less than two weeks ago, CBP also seized almost two tons of marijuana,” said Gene Garza, CBP port director, Laredo. “CBP fully understands the importance of facilitating legitimate cargo that is processed at commercial crossings daily. The balance that is exercised by CBP officers in facilitating lawful commerce while intercepting significant loads of contraband is what makes their work truly admirable.”
Border Patrol in Granjeno Seizes More than $1 Million in Cocaine
January 15, 2010 - U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the McAllen station seized 36 pounds of cocaine early this morning. Border Patrol agents were alerted to suspicious activity along the banks of the Rio Grande, south of Granjeno, by an agent operating a remote video surveillance system. Approximately six individuals were seen emerging from the river carrying what appeared to be bundles. Soon after, a green Chevrolet S-10 approached the river and the smugglers began tossing the bundles into the truck.
When the agents approached, all of the subjects, including the driver, dove into the river and swam back to Mexico. Agents discovered a duffle bag inside the truck containing 15 bundles of cocaine.
The cocaine has an estimated street value of more than $1 million. The Drug Enforcement Administration assumed custody of the narcotics.
To report suspicious activity, contact the Rio Grande Valley Border Patrol Sector’s toll free telephone number at 800-863-9382.
Friday, January 15, 2010
CBP in Atlanta Seizes Counterfeit MLB, Designer Logo Hats
January 15, 2010 - U.S. Customs and Border Protection in Atlanta seized a shipment of counterfeit hats officials announced today. The shipment had a total domestic value of $130,000 and a manufacturers suggested retail price of $1,307,946.
On December 17, CBP officers discovered the shipment of counterfeit hats in a container that was selected for examination. After verifying the shipment violated trademark laws, the shipment was seized on January 6. A total of 42,925 hats bearing Major League Baseball team logos and a designer logo.
“In carrying out our primary mission to detect and prevent terrorists and terrorist weapons from entering the country, CBP encounters other violations that are contrary to importation laws,” said Stephen Kremer, U.S. Customs and Border Protection area port director in Atlanta. “Intercepting and seizing shipments of goods that violate U.S. trade laws is an important facet of CBP's over all enforcement posture to protect the U.S. consumer.”
To address the ongoing threat to domestic industries and the need to identify and interdict counterfeited goods, CBP works closely with private industry, U.S. government agencies and foreign governments to stem the flow of illegal goods to protect consumers and the economy. For more information on intellectual property rights dealing with trademarks, please go to the CBP Web site.
Federal Indictment Charges Lubbock Man with Child Pornography Offenses
January 15, 2010 - U.S. Attorney James T. Jacks, of the Northern District of Texas, announced that a federal grand jury in Lubbock, Texas returned an indictment today charging Lubbock resident Dean Richard Tarkington, 57, with two counts of attempted enticement of a child, two counts of attempted production of child pornography, two counts of attempted receipt of a visual depiction of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct, two counts of attempted possession of child pornography, and one count of attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor.
Tarkington was arrested December 28, 2009, on a criminal complaint charging one count of attempted production of child pornography, and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Nancy M. Koenig to make his initial appearance on the charges. Tarkington was placed on pretrial bond at that time.
An indictment is an accusation by a federal grand jury and a defendant is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty. However, if convicted on all counts of the indictment, Tarkington faces a maximum statutory sentence of life in prison and a $2.25 million fine.
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 United States 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 http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/
U.S. Attorney Jacks commended the investigative efforts of the Louisiana State Police, the Lubbock Police Department, and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven M. Sucsy of the Lubbock, Texas, U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Tarkington was arrested December 28, 2009, on a criminal complaint charging one count of attempted production of child pornography, and appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge Nancy M. Koenig to make his initial appearance on the charges. Tarkington was placed on pretrial bond at that time.
An indictment is an accusation by a federal grand jury and a defendant is entitled to the presumption of innocence unless proven guilty. However, if convicted on all counts of the indictment, Tarkington faces a maximum statutory sentence of life in prison and a $2.25 million fine.
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 United States 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 http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/
U.S. Attorney Jacks commended the investigative efforts of the Louisiana State Police, the Lubbock Police Department, and the FBI. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Steven M. Sucsy of the Lubbock, Texas, U.S. Attorney’s Office.
Dallas Doctor Indicted in Kickback Scheme
January 15, 2010 - U.S. Attorney John M. Bales announced today that a 52-year-old Dallas doctor has been indicted on charges of receiving illegal kickbacks in the Eastern District of Texas. HAROLD WAGNER, of DeSoto, Texas, was indicted by a federal grand jury on Jan. 14, 2010, charging him with seven counts of accepting illegal kickbacks.
According to information provided by prosecutors, Wagner is alleged to have accepted cash payments, also referred to as kickbacks, from a Plano based durable medical equipment supplier in return for recommending power wheelchairs for Medicare and Medicaid recipients that were his patients. It is a violation of Medicare and Medicaid rules for a treating physician to receive any compensation from a medical equipment supplier in return for referring patients for medical supplies.
If convicted, Wagner faces up to five years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Texas Attorney General's Office and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard Blackmon.
A grand jury indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
According to information provided by prosecutors, Wagner is alleged to have accepted cash payments, also referred to as kickbacks, from a Plano based durable medical equipment supplier in return for recommending power wheelchairs for Medicare and Medicaid recipients that were his patients. It is a violation of Medicare and Medicaid rules for a treating physician to receive any compensation from a medical equipment supplier in return for referring patients for medical supplies.
If convicted, Wagner faces up to five years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Office of Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Medicaid Fraud Control Unit of the Texas Attorney General's Office and is being prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Howard Blackmon.
A grand jury indictment is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments in the Eastern District of Texas
January 15, 2010 - U.S. Attorney John M. Bales announced that a federal grand jury returned indictments today charging multiple individuals in separate cases of federal violations in the Eastern District of Texas.
MICHAEL PIAZZA, 52, of Plano, Texas, has been indicted on a charge of possession of child pornography. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being prosecuted 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 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.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Plano Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy Griffith.
ALAN JAY MACINTOSH, 46, of Corinth, Texas, has been indicted for unlawfully wearing military medals or decorations. If convicted, he faces up to one year in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Miriam E. Rea.
LAWRENCE ERIC BATES, 51, and KENNETH DEWAYNE DAVIS, 46, both of Garland, Texas, have been indicted for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and multiple counts of bank fraud and identity theft. If convicted, they each face up to 30 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Miriam E. Rea.
NATHANIEL J. COUSER, JR., 47, of Frisco, Texas, has been indicted on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Terri L. Hagan.
DENNIS RAY HIXSON, 36, of McKinney, Texas, has been indicted for mail fraud, and his wife, CYNTHIA RENEE HIXSON, 42, has been indicted for conspiracy to commit mail fraud. If convicted, Dennis Hixson faces up to 20 years in federal prison and Cynthia Hixson faces up to five years in federal prison.
Additionally, Dennis Hixson has been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, and Cynthia Hixson has also been indicted and charged with making false statements during the purchase of a firearm, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Johnson.
TOMMIE QUINDALE BRASLY, 21, of Plano, Texas, has been indicted for bank robbery in connection with the Dec. 17, 2009, robbery of the Compass Bank on 14th Street in Plano. If convicted, Brasly faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Andrew Stover.
MICHAEL CLARK NEALON, 23, of Whitesboro, Texas, has been indicted for bank robbery in connection with the Oct. 28, 2009, robbery of the First Convenience Bank on University Drive in McKinney. If convicted, Nealon faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Andrew Stover.
WILLIE EDWARD JACKSON, JR., 53, of Sherman, Texas, has been indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jackson is alleged to have been in possession of a firearm on Apr. 13, 2009 in Sherman, Texas. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Roy.
ANTOINE EUGENE MATHENIA, 30, of Sherman, Texas, has been indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Mathenia is alleged to have been in possession of a firearm on June 12, 2009 in Sherman, Texas. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Roy.
JOSE ANTONIO BELTETON-MORALES, 38, of Greenville, Texas has been indicted for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Belteton-Morales is alleged to have been in possession of a firearm on Oct. 29, 2009 while being in the United States illegally. If convicted, the Defendant faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Roy.
BENITO JUAREZ JAIMES, 41, a Mexican national, has been indicted for illegally reentering the United States after having been deported. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Johnson.
MARCELINO MARTINEZ-DON JUAN, 77, a Mexican national, has been indicted for illegally reentering the United States after having been deported. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Johnson.
STEPHEN LEWIS SMITH, 60, of Denton, Texas has been indicted for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Johnson.
It is important to note that an indictment should not be considered as evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
MICHAEL PIAZZA, 52, of Plano, Texas, has been indicted on a charge of possession of child pornography. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being prosecuted 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 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.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Plano Police Department and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Mandy Griffith.
ALAN JAY MACINTOSH, 46, of Corinth, Texas, has been indicted for unlawfully wearing military medals or decorations. If convicted, he faces up to one year in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Naval Criminal Investigative Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Miriam E. Rea.
LAWRENCE ERIC BATES, 51, and KENNETH DEWAYNE DAVIS, 46, both of Garland, Texas, have been indicted for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and multiple counts of bank fraud and identity theft. If convicted, they each face up to 30 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Miriam E. Rea.
NATHANIEL J. COUSER, JR., 47, of Frisco, Texas, has been indicted on charges of mail fraud, wire fraud, and aggravated identity theft. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Secret Service and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Terri L. Hagan.
DENNIS RAY HIXSON, 36, of McKinney, Texas, has been indicted for mail fraud, and his wife, CYNTHIA RENEE HIXSON, 42, has been indicted for conspiracy to commit mail fraud. If convicted, Dennis Hixson faces up to 20 years in federal prison and Cynthia Hixson faces up to five years in federal prison.
Additionally, Dennis Hixson has been charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison, and Cynthia Hixson has also been indicted and charged with making false statements during the purchase of a firearm, which carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Johnson.
TOMMIE QUINDALE BRASLY, 21, of Plano, Texas, has been indicted for bank robbery in connection with the Dec. 17, 2009, robbery of the Compass Bank on 14th Street in Plano. If convicted, Brasly faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Andrew Stover.
MICHAEL CLARK NEALON, 23, of Whitesboro, Texas, has been indicted for bank robbery in connection with the Oct. 28, 2009, robbery of the First Convenience Bank on University Drive in McKinney. If convicted, Nealon faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney M. Andrew Stover.
WILLIE EDWARD JACKSON, JR., 53, of Sherman, Texas, has been indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jackson is alleged to have been in possession of a firearm on Apr. 13, 2009 in Sherman, Texas. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Roy.
ANTOINE EUGENE MATHENIA, 30, of Sherman, Texas, has been indicted for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Mathenia is alleged to have been in possession of a firearm on June 12, 2009 in Sherman, Texas. If convicted, he faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Roy.
JOSE ANTONIO BELTETON-MORALES, 38, of Greenville, Texas has been indicted for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. Belteton-Morales is alleged to have been in possession of a firearm on Oct. 29, 2009 while being in the United States illegally. If convicted, the Defendant faces up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Charles E. Roy.
BENITO JUAREZ JAIMES, 41, a Mexican national, has been indicted for illegally reentering the United States after having been deported. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Johnson.
MARCELINO MARTINEZ-DON JUAN, 77, a Mexican national, has been indicted for illegally reentering the United States after having been deported. If convicted, he faces up to 20 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Johnson.
STEPHEN LEWIS SMITH, 60, of Denton, Texas has been indicted for possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. If convicted, he faces up to 30 years in federal prison.
This case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard J. Johnson.
It is important to note that an indictment should not be considered as evidence of guilt and that all persons charged with a crime are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Arrest Made in Smyrna Bank Robbery; Search Continues for Another Suspect
The Smyrna Police Department’s Criminal Investigations Division, along with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, has made one arrest in connection with a bank robbery that occurred on 01/14/2010 at 888 Concord Road (DBA- Regions Bank) in Smyrna and is looking for another suspect.
On 01/14/2010 at 11:32 a.m., a black male entered the Regions Bank armed with a handgun and demanded money from the business. The suspect was able to get away with a large sum of cash. He then got into a grey Dodge Avenger with a black male driver and 3-year-old female (back seat) and drove south on South Cobb Drive.
Lookouts were dispatched from witnesses on scene to be on the lookout for a black/white sedan and a grey Dodge sedan. Smyrna Police Officers were able to stop a grey Dodge a few miles south of the bank. Officers were able to identify the driver, Cornell Brumfield, and a female child in the back seat. No other occupants were seen in the vehicle. Upon discovering Brumfield possessed an invalid driver’s license and no insurance on the vehicle, officers placed him into custody and also took custody of the child. At this time, the vehicle was only considered a possible suspect vehicle in the robbery, and officers placed the vehicle in impound and had it towed to Smyrna Police Headquarters for further investigation.
At police headquarters, while the vehicle was being dropped off by the wrecker service, the missing suspect who had been hiding in the trunk was able to free himself from the trunk area and absconded custody.
The child, who was in the vehicle during the robbery, was not harmed and considered to be in good spirits. The child’s mother came to police headquarters and took custody of the child.
After receiving warrants to search the vehicle and further investigation, Detectives and Federal Agents were able to secure charges on the driver.
Brumfield is in federal custody and facing charges in connection with the bank robbery.
The Smyrna Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are actively searching for Ron Darnell Sterling. Sterling is believed to possibly be in the Atlanta area and should be considered armed and dangerous. If you have any information regarding Ron Sterling, please call the Smyrna Police Department at 770-434-9481, or the FBI.
On 01/14/2010 at 11:32 a.m., a black male entered the Regions Bank armed with a handgun and demanded money from the business. The suspect was able to get away with a large sum of cash. He then got into a grey Dodge Avenger with a black male driver and 3-year-old female (back seat) and drove south on South Cobb Drive.
Lookouts were dispatched from witnesses on scene to be on the lookout for a black/white sedan and a grey Dodge sedan. Smyrna Police Officers were able to stop a grey Dodge a few miles south of the bank. Officers were able to identify the driver, Cornell Brumfield, and a female child in the back seat. No other occupants were seen in the vehicle. Upon discovering Brumfield possessed an invalid driver’s license and no insurance on the vehicle, officers placed him into custody and also took custody of the child. At this time, the vehicle was only considered a possible suspect vehicle in the robbery, and officers placed the vehicle in impound and had it towed to Smyrna Police Headquarters for further investigation.
At police headquarters, while the vehicle was being dropped off by the wrecker service, the missing suspect who had been hiding in the trunk was able to free himself from the trunk area and absconded custody.
The child, who was in the vehicle during the robbery, was not harmed and considered to be in good spirits. The child’s mother came to police headquarters and took custody of the child.
After receiving warrants to search the vehicle and further investigation, Detectives and Federal Agents were able to secure charges on the driver.
Brumfield is in federal custody and facing charges in connection with the bank robbery.
The Smyrna Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation are actively searching for Ron Darnell Sterling. Sterling is believed to possibly be in the Atlanta area and should be considered armed and dangerous. If you have any information regarding Ron Sterling, please call the Smyrna Police Department at 770-434-9481, or the FBI.
“Billy Goat Bandit” Robs Again
The Houston FBI Bank Robbery Task Force is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a man who is now suspected in at least 11 Houston area bank robberies. The latest occurred at the Wells Fargo located inside the Randall’s Grocery Store located at 12860 Memorial in Houston, Texas earlier today. In previous robberies, the robber sported a unique straggly beard with extra long chin hair, earning him the nickname of the “Billy Goat Bandit.” During some recent robberies, the robber’s chin whiskers were more neatly trimmed. During this robbery, it appeared as though his whiskers were gone, but his face was unshaven.
At about 1:45 p.m., the bandit entered the Randall’s Store and approached the bank located inside the store. He held up a threatening note which demanded cash. The teller handed him some money and he fled on foot. No weapon was observed during the robbery. No one was physically hurt during the robbery.
The “Billy Goat Bandit” is described as a black male, mid-twenties, 5’10”-6’ tall, with an average build. He had a dark complexion and trimmed goatee. He wore a dark blue jacket, medium blue shirt, khaki pants, and an off-white baseball cap with an orange bill.
The “Billy Goat Bandit” is suspected in at least 11 other Houston area robberies from 10/16/2009 to the present.
Crime Stoppers is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the charging and arrest of the “Billy Goat Bandit”, or any felony suspect. If you have information about this crime, please call the Crime Stoppers Tip Line at 713-222-TIPS (8477) or the Houston office of the FBI at 713-693-5000.
Seeking Information on Robbery of Bank of America Branch in Chula Vista
Witnesses describe the robber as follows:
Sex: Male
Race: Black
Age: 40 - 50
Height: Approximately 5’9” – 5’10”
Build: Medium
Clothing: Dark colored baseball cap, dark colored do-rag, and dark colored rain jacket
Anyone with information concerning this robbery is asked to contact the FBI at telephone number (858) 565-1255.
Owners of Murfreesboro Ambulance Service Arrested on Medicare Fraud and Wire Fraud Charges
January 15, 2010 - Woody Medlock, Sr., his wife, Kathy Medlock, and son, Woody Medlock, Jr., of Murfreesboro, Tennessee, were arrested today on charges of conspiracy, Medicare fraud, and wire fraud. The indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in Nashville on January 6, 2010. Woody Medlock, Sr., 66, and his wife, Kathy Medlock, 54, are the owners and operators of the Murfreesboro Ambulance Service. Woody Medlock, Jr., 44, is a supervisor for the ambulance service. The indictment represents the culmination of a joint federal and state investigation into alleged fraudulent billing practices of Murfreesboro Ambulance Service to Medicare and Medicaid for transportation of dialysis patients.
The thirty-five count indictment alleges that from some time in 1996 through September 2008, the Medlocks conspired and engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicare and Medicaid by submitting claims for payment for the transportation of patients who were not qualified to receive ambulance transportation. The indictment alleges that the Medlocks submitted or caused to be submitted, through Murfreesboro Ambulance Service, fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid for reimbursement of ambulance transports of beneficiaries to and from dialysis totaling at least $1,000,000, and resulting in payments from Medicare of at least $ $486,813.83, and from Medicaid of at least $101,000. The indictment further alleges that the fraudulent claims falsely represented that medically necessary ambulance services were provided to beneficiaries to and from dialysis, when such services were not medically necessary; that beneficiaries were transported on a stretcher in the ambulance, when in fact, beneficiaries were seated in the front seat of the ambulance or in the captain’s chair/jump seat in the back of the ambulance and not on stretchers; that beneficiaries transported to and from dialysis suffered from various medical conditions and diagnoses identified on the claims forms in order to qualify the transports for reimbursement were false; and that beneficiaries were transported individually when multiple patients had been transported simultaneously in one ambulance.
If convicted, the Medlocks face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence following conviction will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and applicable federal statutes.
This case is being investigated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, the Memphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. The United States is represented by Assistant United States Attorneys John K. Webb and Sandra G. Moses.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A charged defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a jury trial at which the Government would bear the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt as to each count of the information.
The thirty-five count indictment alleges that from some time in 1996 through September 2008, the Medlocks conspired and engaged in a scheme to defraud Medicare and Medicaid by submitting claims for payment for the transportation of patients who were not qualified to receive ambulance transportation. The indictment alleges that the Medlocks submitted or caused to be submitted, through Murfreesboro Ambulance Service, fraudulent claims to Medicare and Medicaid for reimbursement of ambulance transports of beneficiaries to and from dialysis totaling at least $1,000,000, and resulting in payments from Medicare of at least $ $486,813.83, and from Medicaid of at least $101,000. The indictment further alleges that the fraudulent claims falsely represented that medically necessary ambulance services were provided to beneficiaries to and from dialysis, when such services were not medically necessary; that beneficiaries were transported on a stretcher in the ambulance, when in fact, beneficiaries were seated in the front seat of the ambulance or in the captain’s chair/jump seat in the back of the ambulance and not on stretchers; that beneficiaries transported to and from dialysis suffered from various medical conditions and diagnoses identified on the claims forms in order to qualify the transports for reimbursement were false; and that beneficiaries were transported individually when multiple patients had been transported simultaneously in one ambulance.
If convicted, the Medlocks face up to 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Any sentence following conviction will be imposed by the Court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and applicable federal statutes.
This case is being investigated by the United States Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, the Memphis Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tennessee Bureau of Investigation. The United States is represented by Assistant United States Attorneys John K. Webb and Sandra G. Moses.
An indictment is merely an allegation and is not evidence of guilt. A charged defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a jury trial at which the Government would bear the burden of proof beyond a reasonable doubt as to each count of the information.
Arkansas Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Commit Murders of African-Americans
Plot Included Then-Presidential Candidate Barack Obama
January 15, 2010 - The Department of Justice today announced that Paul Schlesselman pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy, one count of threatening to kill and inflict bodily harm upon a presidential candidate, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Schlesselman faces a sentence of 10 years under the plea agreement. A sentencing date of April 15, 2010, was set by Judge J. Daniel Breen, who is presiding over the case in Jackson, Tenn.
Schlesselman of West Helena, Ark., admitted to conspiring to murder dozens of people, with a focus on murdering African-Americans. He further acknowledged that he intended to culminate his killing spree by assassinating then-Senator Barack Obama, who was a presidential candidate at the time.
“Despite great civil rights progress, hate-fueled violence remains all too common in our country, as illustrated by this unthinkable conspiracy,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “Tragedy was averted thanks to the capable work of the Crockett County Sheriff’s Department and their willingness to work with the ATF, the Secret Service and the FBI.”
“Crimes committed against individuals because of their race will not be tolerated,” said Lawrence J. Laurenzi, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennesse. “I commend the work of the investigative agencies in thwarting what could have been a series of tragic events.”
Schlesselman admitted that beginning on or about Sept. 1, 2008, and continuing until Oct. 22, 2008, he conspired to transport firearms and ammunition in interstate commerce, steal firearms from a licensed firearms dealer and transport in interstate commerce a short-barreled shotgun, all for the purpose of committing murders, robberies and burglaries.
Schlesselman further acknowledged that on Oct. 20, 2008, he unlawfully transported an unregistered short barreled shotgun and a .357 magnum caliber handgun across state lines for the purpose of committing felonies, including racially targeted murders.
Schlesselman also admitted that on Oct. 23, 2008, he threatened to kill and inflict bodily harm on President Barack Obama, who was a presidential candidate at the time.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Secret Service; the FBI; and the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Larry Laurenzi, Assistant U.S. Attorney James Powell and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Jonathan Skrmetti.
January 15, 2010 - The Department of Justice today announced that Paul Schlesselman pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy, one count of threatening to kill and inflict bodily harm upon a presidential candidate, and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Schlesselman faces a sentence of 10 years under the plea agreement. A sentencing date of April 15, 2010, was set by Judge J. Daniel Breen, who is presiding over the case in Jackson, Tenn.
Schlesselman of West Helena, Ark., admitted to conspiring to murder dozens of people, with a focus on murdering African-Americans. He further acknowledged that he intended to culminate his killing spree by assassinating then-Senator Barack Obama, who was a presidential candidate at the time.
“Despite great civil rights progress, hate-fueled violence remains all too common in our country, as illustrated by this unthinkable conspiracy,” said Thomas E. Perez, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Rights Division. “Tragedy was averted thanks to the capable work of the Crockett County Sheriff’s Department and their willingness to work with the ATF, the Secret Service and the FBI.”
“Crimes committed against individuals because of their race will not be tolerated,” said Lawrence J. Laurenzi, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Tennesse. “I commend the work of the investigative agencies in thwarting what could have been a series of tragic events.”
Schlesselman admitted that beginning on or about Sept. 1, 2008, and continuing until Oct. 22, 2008, he conspired to transport firearms and ammunition in interstate commerce, steal firearms from a licensed firearms dealer and transport in interstate commerce a short-barreled shotgun, all for the purpose of committing murders, robberies and burglaries.
Schlesselman further acknowledged that on Oct. 20, 2008, he unlawfully transported an unregistered short barreled shotgun and a .357 magnum caliber handgun across state lines for the purpose of committing felonies, including racially targeted murders.
Schlesselman also admitted that on Oct. 23, 2008, he threatened to kill and inflict bodily harm on President Barack Obama, who was a presidential candidate at the time.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Secret Service; the FBI; and the Crockett County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by U.S. Attorney Larry Laurenzi, Assistant U.S. Attorney James Powell and Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney Jonathan Skrmetti.
Baton Rouge Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Bomb Threat
January 15, 2010 - TYRONE MORGAN, age 26, a resident of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, pled guilty today in a federal court before U.S. District Judge Carl J. Barbier to one count of maliciously conveying false information, announced U.S. Attorney Jim Letten. According to the factual basis, MORGAN admitted that he was a contractor employed at the Marathon Petroleum Refinery in Garyville, Louisiana and on May 4, 2009, he telephoned security personnel at the Refinery and falsely conveyed that the Refinery would be damaged or destroyed by explosives.
MORGAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of $250,000.00, and three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. Sentencing has been scheduled for April 8, 2010. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy.
MORGAN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten (10) years, a fine of $250,000.00, and three (3) years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment. Sentencing has been scheduled for April 8, 2010. The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Gregory M. Kennedy.
Defendant Pleads Guilty to Role in Mortgage Fraud Ring
January 15, 2010 - A Florida man was convicted today in federal court for his role in a large-scale mortgage fraud conspiracy. United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz; Warren T. Bamford, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Boston Field Division; Susan Dukes, Special Agent in Charge of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations – Boston Field Office; Randy Miskanic, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service; and Boston Police Commissioner Edward Davis jointly announced today that SAMUEL JEAN-LOUIS, age 25, of Florida, pled guilty before U.S. District Judge George A. O’Toole, Jr. to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and 11 counts of wire fraud.
At today’s plea hearing, the prosecutor told the Court that had the case proceeded to trial the government’s evidence would have proven that in or about 2005 and 2006, JEAN-LOUIS participated with others in a conspiracy to defraud mortgage lenders in connection with certain property transactions in and around the Boston area. JEAN-LOUIS acted as a mortgage broker and recruiter in the underlying scheme to defraud. Specifically, JEAN-LOUIS prepared several mortgage loan applications containing false representations for certain property transactions and caused these applications to be submitted to mortgage lenders. As a result, the mortgage lenders wired funds, via interstate wire, to a bank account of a Boston attorney responsible for closing the loans. JEAN-LOUIS also recruited a “straw” borrower for a fraudulent loan application on another property transaction during the course of the conspiracy.
Judge O’Toole scheduled sentencing for June 29, 2010. JEAN-LOUIS faces up to five years' imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine on the conspiracy count, and 20 years' imprisonment, to be followed by up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine on each count of wire fraud.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service, and United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Boston Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Victor A. Wild and Ryan M. DiSantis of Ortiz’s Economic Crimes Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Murrane of Ortiz’s Asset Forfeiture Unit.
At today’s plea hearing, the prosecutor told the Court that had the case proceeded to trial the government’s evidence would have proven that in or about 2005 and 2006, JEAN-LOUIS participated with others in a conspiracy to defraud mortgage lenders in connection with certain property transactions in and around the Boston area. JEAN-LOUIS acted as a mortgage broker and recruiter in the underlying scheme to defraud. Specifically, JEAN-LOUIS prepared several mortgage loan applications containing false representations for certain property transactions and caused these applications to be submitted to mortgage lenders. As a result, the mortgage lenders wired funds, via interstate wire, to a bank account of a Boston attorney responsible for closing the loans. JEAN-LOUIS also recruited a “straw” borrower for a fraudulent loan application on another property transaction during the course of the conspiracy.
Judge O’Toole scheduled sentencing for June 29, 2010. JEAN-LOUIS faces up to five years' imprisonment, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine on the conspiracy count, and 20 years' imprisonment, to be followed by up to three years of supervised release, and up to a $250,000 fine on each count of wire fraud.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Internal Revenue Service, and United States Postal Inspection Service, with assistance from the Boston Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Victor A. Wild and Ryan M. DiSantis of Ortiz’s Economic Crimes Unit and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mary Murrane of Ortiz’s Asset Forfeiture Unit.
U.S. Files Suit Against Johnson & Johnson for Paying Kickbacks to Nation's Largest Nursing Home Pharmacy
January 15, 2010 - The United States has filed a civil False Claims Act complaint against drug manufacturer Johnson & Johnson (J&J) of New Brunswick, N.J., and two of its subsidiaries, Ortho-McNeil-Janssen Pharmaceuticals Inc. and Johnson & Johnson Health Care Systems Inc., the Justice Department announced today. The complaint alleges that these companies paid millions of dollars in kickbacks to Omnicare Inc., the nation’s largest pharmacy that specializes in dispensing drugs to nursing home patients. In November 2009, the United States, numerous states, and Omnicare entered into a $98 million settlement agreement that, among other things, resolved Omnicare’s civil liability under the False Claims Act for taking kickbacks from J&J.
In its complaint against J&J, the United States alleges that the company paid kickbacks to Omnicare to induce the nursing home pharmacy company to purchase and recommend J&J drugs, including the anti-psychotic drug Risperdal, for use in nursing homes. According to the complaint, J&J understood that Omnicare’s pharmacists reviewed nursing home patients’ charts at least monthly and made recommendations to physicians on what drugs should be prescribed for those patients. The government further alleges that J&J knew that physicians accepted the Omnicare pharmacists’ recommendations more than 80 percent of the time, and that J&J viewed such pharmacists as an “extension of [J&J’s] sales force.”
The United States alleges that, in order to induce Omnicare and its pharmacists to recommend J&J drugs, the company paid kickbacks to Omnicare in numerous ways. First, the complaint alleges that J&J entered into agreements with Omnicare by which Omnicare was entitled to increasing levels of rebates from Johnson & Johnson so long as Omnicare implemented specific programs to increase the prescriptions of J&J drugs. Second, the complaint alleges that J&J paid Omnicare millions of dollars for “data,” much of which Omnicare never provided. According to the complaint, the true purpose of these payments was to induce Omnicare to recommend J&J drugs. Third, the complaint alleges that J&J made various other substantial kickback payments to Omnicare, calling the payments “grants” and “educational funding,” even though their true purpose was to induce Omnicare to recommend J&J
“We will pursue those who break the law to take advantage of the elderly and the poor,” said Tony West, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division of the Department of Justice. “Kickbacks such as those alleged here distort the judgments of health care professionals and put profits ahead of sound medical treatment.”
The United States filed its complaint in two consolidated whistleblower lawsuits presently on file in the District of Massachusetts.
Assistant Attorney General West thanked the collaborative efforts of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
In its complaint against J&J, the United States alleges that the company paid kickbacks to Omnicare to induce the nursing home pharmacy company to purchase and recommend J&J drugs, including the anti-psychotic drug Risperdal, for use in nursing homes. According to the complaint, J&J understood that Omnicare’s pharmacists reviewed nursing home patients’ charts at least monthly and made recommendations to physicians on what drugs should be prescribed for those patients. The government further alleges that J&J knew that physicians accepted the Omnicare pharmacists’ recommendations more than 80 percent of the time, and that J&J viewed such pharmacists as an “extension of [J&J’s] sales force.”
The United States alleges that, in order to induce Omnicare and its pharmacists to recommend J&J drugs, the company paid kickbacks to Omnicare in numerous ways. First, the complaint alleges that J&J entered into agreements with Omnicare by which Omnicare was entitled to increasing levels of rebates from Johnson & Johnson so long as Omnicare implemented specific programs to increase the prescriptions of J&J drugs. Second, the complaint alleges that J&J paid Omnicare millions of dollars for “data,” much of which Omnicare never provided. According to the complaint, the true purpose of these payments was to induce Omnicare to recommend J&J drugs. Third, the complaint alleges that J&J made various other substantial kickback payments to Omnicare, calling the payments “grants” and “educational funding,” even though their true purpose was to induce Omnicare to recommend J&J
“We will pursue those who break the law to take advantage of the elderly and the poor,” said Tony West, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division of the Department of Justice. “Kickbacks such as those alleged here distort the judgments of health care professionals and put profits ahead of sound medical treatment.”
The United States filed its complaint in two consolidated whistleblower lawsuits presently on file in the District of Massachusetts.
Assistant Attorney General West thanked the collaborative efforts of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, the U.S. Attorney for the District of Massachusetts, the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services, the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Real Estate Developer Admits Laundering Money for the Purpose of Making Political Contributions to a Union City Official
January 15, 2010 - Real estate developer Shimon Haber pleaded guilty today to conspiring to launder money, admitting he agreed with a cooperating witness and others to launder money for the purpose of making contributions to the political committee of a Union City official in exchange for official approvals to develop certain property in Union City, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
Haber, 34, of Brooklyn, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares to a one-count criminal Information charging him with conspiracy to launder money to conceal and promote unlawful activity. Judge Linares continued Haber’s release on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing, which is scheduled for April 28, 2010 at 11:00a.m.
At his plea hearing, Haber admitted that in March 2007, he had meetings with a cooperating witness and co-conspirators Michael Altman, 39, of Monsey, N.Y., and Isaac Friedlander, 42, of Union City, to negotiate the terms of a money laundering arrangement, whereby Altman and Friedlander would launder money from the cooperating witness through a purported charitable entity called Gmach Shefa Chaim. That money would then be funneled by Altman through Gmach Shefa Chaim to the political committee of a Union City official, in exchange for official approvals for developing a Union City property in which Haber and the cooperating witness would be partners. Haber admitted that the value of funds that he conspired to launder was in excess of $10,000 but less than $30,000.
Haber’s guilty plea stems from a two-track undercover FBI investigation into political corruption and international money laundering which resulted in the charging of 44 individuals via criminal Complaints on July 23, 2009. At that time, Altman was charged via criminal complaint with conspiracy to launder money and conspiracy to obstruct commerce by extortion under color of official right; Friedlander was charged via criminal complaint with conspiracy to launder money. The cases against Altman and Friedlander are pending.
The charge to which Haber pleaded guilty carries a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
In determining an actual sentence, Judge Linares will consult the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which recommend sentencing ranges that take into account the severity and characteristics of the offenses, the defendant’s criminal history, if any, and other factors, including acceptance of responsibility. The judge, however, has discretion and is not bound by those guidelines in determining a sentence.
Parole has been abolished in the federal system. Defendants who are given custodial terms must serve nearly all of that time.
Fishman credited Special Agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin B. Cruise, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge William P. Offord, for the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Chao of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.
Haber, 34, of Brooklyn, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jose L. Linares to a one-count criminal Information charging him with conspiracy to launder money to conceal and promote unlawful activity. Judge Linares continued Haber’s release on a $100,000 bond pending sentencing, which is scheduled for April 28, 2010 at 11:00a.m.
At his plea hearing, Haber admitted that in March 2007, he had meetings with a cooperating witness and co-conspirators Michael Altman, 39, of Monsey, N.Y., and Isaac Friedlander, 42, of Union City, to negotiate the terms of a money laundering arrangement, whereby Altman and Friedlander would launder money from the cooperating witness through a purported charitable entity called Gmach Shefa Chaim. That money would then be funneled by Altman through Gmach Shefa Chaim to the political committee of a Union City official, in exchange for official approvals for developing a Union City property in which Haber and the cooperating witness would be partners. Haber admitted that the value of funds that he conspired to launder was in excess of $10,000 but less than $30,000.
Haber’s guilty plea stems from a two-track undercover FBI investigation into political corruption and international money laundering which resulted in the charging of 44 individuals via criminal Complaints on July 23, 2009. At that time, Altman was charged via criminal complaint with conspiracy to launder money and conspiracy to obstruct commerce by extortion under color of official right; Friedlander was charged via criminal complaint with conspiracy to launder money. The cases against Altman and Friedlander are pending.
The charge to which Haber pleaded guilty carries a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
In determining an actual sentence, Judge Linares will consult the advisory U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, which recommend sentencing ranges that take into account the severity and characteristics of the offenses, the defendant’s criminal history, if any, and other factors, including acceptance of responsibility. The judge, however, has discretion and is not bound by those guidelines in determining a sentence.
Parole has been abolished in the federal system. Defendants who are given custodial terms must serve nearly all of that time.
Fishman credited Special Agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin B. Cruise, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge William P. Offord, for the investigation leading to today’s guilty plea.
The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dustin Chao of the U.S. Attorney’s Office Special Prosecutions Division in Newark.
Unauthorized Alien Convicted of Bank and Access Device Fraud
January 15, 2010 - Ibrahima Sarr, 32, a Senegalese unauthorized alien, was found guilty today of bank fraud, conspiracy, aggravated identity theft and access device fraud by a Norfolk federal jury after the conclusion of a 3-day trial before United States District Judge Rebecca Beach Smith. Neil H. MacBride, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, made the announcement. Sarr will be sentenced on April 27, 2010, and faces a maximum penalty of 95 years in prison for all counts.
According to evidence and trial testimony, Sarr engaged with four co-conspirators in cashing counterfeit checks and producing, trafficking and possessing counterfeit credit cards in late 2005 and early 2006. The four co-conspirators all pled guilty in 2006; however, Sarr remained a fugitive until May 2009 when he was arrested on the outstanding federal warrant in New York City after a traffic stop.
Sarr came to the attention of law enforcement when he and others attempted to cash a counterfeit cashier’s check for $187,200 at Monarch Bank in Virginia Beach on October 13, 2005. In addition, Sarr solicited credit card information from a co-conspirator working at the Comfort Inn Hotel at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront who supplied him with approximately 80 stolen credit card account numbers from hotel guests. Sarr used these stolen credit card numbers and stolen credit information from other sources to produce counterfeit cards in the name of the co-conspirators. The loss amount for the credit cards was over $200,000.
Today’s announcement is the result of the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Haynie and Special Assistant United States Attorney Karen Somers prosecuted the case for the United States.
According to evidence and trial testimony, Sarr engaged with four co-conspirators in cashing counterfeit checks and producing, trafficking and possessing counterfeit credit cards in late 2005 and early 2006. The four co-conspirators all pled guilty in 2006; however, Sarr remained a fugitive until May 2009 when he was arrested on the outstanding federal warrant in New York City after a traffic stop.
Sarr came to the attention of law enforcement when he and others attempted to cash a counterfeit cashier’s check for $187,200 at Monarch Bank in Virginia Beach on October 13, 2005. In addition, Sarr solicited credit card information from a co-conspirator working at the Comfort Inn Hotel at the Virginia Beach Oceanfront who supplied him with approximately 80 stolen credit card account numbers from hotel guests. Sarr used these stolen credit card numbers and stolen credit information from other sources to produce counterfeit cards in the name of the co-conspirators. The loss amount for the credit cards was over $200,000.
Today’s announcement is the result of the investigative work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Stephen Haynie and Special Assistant United States Attorney Karen Somers prosecuted the case for the United States.
Department of Justice Announces National Coordinator for Criminal Discovery Initiatives
January 15, 2010 - The Department of Justice today announced the appointment of Andrew Goldsmith as the new national coordinator for its criminal discovery initiatives. The position was established as part of the Department’s ongoing efforts, initiated last year at the direction of the Attorney General, to review and improve its criminal discovery and case management policies and procedures.
"Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in this field, and I am pleased he is taking on this crucial role," said Deputy Attorney General David W. Ogden. "He will be instrumental in overseeing our efforts to ensure all of our prosecutors and law enforcement agents have the necessary training and tools to achieve fair and just results in the nation’s courts."
As the national coordinator, Goldsmith will oversee the implementation of a number of initiatives designed to provide prosecutors with the training and resources they need to meet discovery obligations in criminal cases. These efforts include:
• Creating an online directory of resources on discovery issues available to all prosecutors at their desktop;
• Producing a Handbook on Discovery and Case Management similar to the Grand Jury Manual so that prosecutors will have an accessible and comprehensive resource on discovery obligations;
• Implementing a training curriculum and a mandatory training program for paralegals and law enforcement agents;
• Revitalizing the Computer Forensics Working Group to ensure the proper cataloguing of electronically stored information recovered as part of federal investigations; and
• Creating a pilot case management project to fully explore the available case management software and possible new practices to better catalogue law enforcement investigative files and to ensure that all the information is transmitted in the most useful way to federal prosecutors.
Goldsmith will also act as the primary liaison to all of the United States Attorneys’ Offices and Department components on these issues, as well as issues relating to electronic evidence in criminal cases.
As part of the Department-wide initiative, Deputy Attorney General Ogden issued three memoranda earlier this month regarding criminal discovery practices including a memorandum to all prosecutors containing guidance on criminal discovery obligations.
The guidance to prosecutors, United States Attorneys’ Offices and the heads of all litigating components followed a review of the Department’s policies, practices, and training related to criminal case management and discovery ordered by the Attorney General. That review determined that incidents of discovery failures were rare in comparison to the number of cases prosecuted. However, the Department has instituted a number of steps intended to further ensure the Department complies with its discovery obligations.
Goldsmith serves as the First Assistant Chief of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section, where he supervises environmental prosecutions and develops training on worker endangerment, environmental terrorism, and laboratory fraud, as well as electronic discovery. He served as Chief of the Environmental Crimes Unit of the New York Attorney General's Office and was an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of New Jersey. He previously worked as an Assistant District Attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and in private practice.
Goldsmith has received the Attorney General’s John Marshall award as well as the Justice Department’s Distinguished Service Award. He earned his law degree from Albany Law School and his undergraduate degree from Cornell University.
"Andrew brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in this field, and I am pleased he is taking on this crucial role," said Deputy Attorney General David W. Ogden. "He will be instrumental in overseeing our efforts to ensure all of our prosecutors and law enforcement agents have the necessary training and tools to achieve fair and just results in the nation’s courts."
As the national coordinator, Goldsmith will oversee the implementation of a number of initiatives designed to provide prosecutors with the training and resources they need to meet discovery obligations in criminal cases. These efforts include:
• Creating an online directory of resources on discovery issues available to all prosecutors at their desktop;
• Producing a Handbook on Discovery and Case Management similar to the Grand Jury Manual so that prosecutors will have an accessible and comprehensive resource on discovery obligations;
• Implementing a training curriculum and a mandatory training program for paralegals and law enforcement agents;
• Revitalizing the Computer Forensics Working Group to ensure the proper cataloguing of electronically stored information recovered as part of federal investigations; and
• Creating a pilot case management project to fully explore the available case management software and possible new practices to better catalogue law enforcement investigative files and to ensure that all the information is transmitted in the most useful way to federal prosecutors.
Goldsmith will also act as the primary liaison to all of the United States Attorneys’ Offices and Department components on these issues, as well as issues relating to electronic evidence in criminal cases.
As part of the Department-wide initiative, Deputy Attorney General Ogden issued three memoranda earlier this month regarding criminal discovery practices including a memorandum to all prosecutors containing guidance on criminal discovery obligations.
The guidance to prosecutors, United States Attorneys’ Offices and the heads of all litigating components followed a review of the Department’s policies, practices, and training related to criminal case management and discovery ordered by the Attorney General. That review determined that incidents of discovery failures were rare in comparison to the number of cases prosecuted. However, the Department has instituted a number of steps intended to further ensure the Department complies with its discovery obligations.
Goldsmith serves as the First Assistant Chief of the Environment and Natural Resources Division’s Environmental Crimes Section, where he supervises environmental prosecutions and develops training on worker endangerment, environmental terrorism, and laboratory fraud, as well as electronic discovery. He served as Chief of the Environmental Crimes Unit of the New York Attorney General's Office and was an Assistant United States Attorney for the District of New Jersey. He previously worked as an Assistant District Attorney in the Manhattan District Attorney’s Office and in private practice.
Goldsmith has received the Attorney General’s John Marshall award as well as the Justice Department’s Distinguished Service Award. He earned his law degree from Albany Law School and his undergraduate degree from Cornell University.
CBP Officers Seize Marijuana Hidden in Vehicle’s Back Seat
January 14, 2010 - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped a drug-smuggling attempt when they seized more than 60 pounds of marijuana concealed in the back-seat of a vehicle. On January 11 at 2:30 p.m. CBP officers were screening travelers when they became suspicious of a 2002 Nissan XTerra being driven by a 28-year-old woman from Naco, Sonora, Mexico. CBP officers searched the woman’s vehicle and discovered that a non-factory compartment had been built underneath the back seat and was loaded with packages of marijuana. The officers removed more than 60 pounds of marijuana with an estimated street value of $135,000.
CBP officers seized the vehicle and the marijuana. The woman was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.
CBP officers seized the vehicle and the marijuana. The woman was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.
Man Sentenced to Over 13 Years in $21 Million Ponzi Scheme That Cost Dozens of Victims Their Life Savings
Victims Describe Ordeals of Loss after ‘Up-Close’ Meetings with Fraudster
After hearing from 15 victims who described the ramifications of losing their life savings, a federal judge yesterday sentenced an Orange County man to 159 months in prison for operating a Ponzi scheme in which victims lost more than $21 million. John Anthony Miller, 52, of San Clemente, was sentenced Monday afternoon by United States District Judge Christina A. Snyder. Miller pleaded guilty last March to a mail fraud count related to the Ponzi scheme, as well as bribery, passport fraud, and identity fraud charges resulting from his attempt to procure a fraudulent passport and flee the country after his scheme collapsed.
From 2000 through November 2008, Miller operated a Ponzi scheme through his Newport Beach-based investment companies, JAM Jr. Enterprises and Forte Financial Partners. Miller made promises of “guaranteed” annual returns of as much as 18 percent per year, telling investors that their money would be invested in foreign currency trading, oil wells, real estate and other vehicles. During the course of the scheme, Miller provided investors with monthly account statements that falsely represented they were earning the promised returns. In fact, Miller had never earned any real profits from his investment activity and, in the pattern of a typical Ponzi scheme, used money from some investors to make Ponzi payments to other investors.
Over the course of his scheme, Miller defrauded more than 130 people out of more than $21 million, taking millions of dollars that some victims withdrew from IRA retirement savings accounts and others borrowed against their homes.
In court filings, prosecutors quoted from some of the letters victims sent to Judge Snyder. A husband and wife, one of whom was suffering from colon cancer, lost more than $800,000. Now in bankruptcy and suffering from regular nightmares, they wrote: “They say time heals all wounds, but not in this case. The impact on our lives has been like a cancer growing and festering and has caused irreparable and unrecoverable damage to our lives, not just financially but emotionally and physically.”
They added: “Miller raped us of our money, our dignity, and any hope of a decent future.”
In sentencing papers, prosecutors argued that Miller was “amongst the most egregious of any investment fraudster or Ponzi schemer this Court will ever see. He didn’t just solicit fraudulent investments through mailings or mass marketing, like many fraudsters do. He didn’t just interact with victims over the telephone or at investment seminars, like many others. [Miller] lied to people in person, up close, sitting in their living rooms or at their kitchen tables, knowing full well the vulnerability of his victims and the inevitable devastation his deceit would cause them.”
The mail fraud charge is the result of a September 26, 2008 letter that Miller sent to investors, in which he falsely stated that investments made with him were performing well despite the economic downturn, and that his companies had more than $150 million in assets and only approximately $30 million in liabilities. In reality, at that point Miller and his investment companies were nearly out of money, his fraud scheme was collapsing, and he was considering fleeing the country.
Miller was taken into custody in November 2008 as he was preparing to leave the United States. The month before, Miller told a former associate that he wanted to obtain a fraudulent United States passport under a false name that he could use to flee the country. Miller and the former associate discussed the countries that they thought would be best to flee to, including those that did not have extradition treaties with the United States. On November 12, during a meeting at the Federal Building in Westwood with an undercover State Department agent whom Miller believed was a corrupt passport officer, Miller paid a $5,000 bribe to secure a bogus passport that was to be in the name of a former high school classmate who had recently died. The $5,000 came from money collected during his fraud scheme. After Miller completed the fraudulent passport application in the name of his deceased high school classmate and handed the undercover agent $5,000 in cash, he was arrested by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of State.
After hearing from 15 victims who described the ramifications of losing their life savings, a federal judge yesterday sentenced an Orange County man to 159 months in prison for operating a Ponzi scheme in which victims lost more than $21 million. John Anthony Miller, 52, of San Clemente, was sentenced Monday afternoon by United States District Judge Christina A. Snyder. Miller pleaded guilty last March to a mail fraud count related to the Ponzi scheme, as well as bribery, passport fraud, and identity fraud charges resulting from his attempt to procure a fraudulent passport and flee the country after his scheme collapsed.
From 2000 through November 2008, Miller operated a Ponzi scheme through his Newport Beach-based investment companies, JAM Jr. Enterprises and Forte Financial Partners. Miller made promises of “guaranteed” annual returns of as much as 18 percent per year, telling investors that their money would be invested in foreign currency trading, oil wells, real estate and other vehicles. During the course of the scheme, Miller provided investors with monthly account statements that falsely represented they were earning the promised returns. In fact, Miller had never earned any real profits from his investment activity and, in the pattern of a typical Ponzi scheme, used money from some investors to make Ponzi payments to other investors.
Over the course of his scheme, Miller defrauded more than 130 people out of more than $21 million, taking millions of dollars that some victims withdrew from IRA retirement savings accounts and others borrowed against their homes.
In court filings, prosecutors quoted from some of the letters victims sent to Judge Snyder. A husband and wife, one of whom was suffering from colon cancer, lost more than $800,000. Now in bankruptcy and suffering from regular nightmares, they wrote: “They say time heals all wounds, but not in this case. The impact on our lives has been like a cancer growing and festering and has caused irreparable and unrecoverable damage to our lives, not just financially but emotionally and physically.”
They added: “Miller raped us of our money, our dignity, and any hope of a decent future.”
In sentencing papers, prosecutors argued that Miller was “amongst the most egregious of any investment fraudster or Ponzi schemer this Court will ever see. He didn’t just solicit fraudulent investments through mailings or mass marketing, like many fraudsters do. He didn’t just interact with victims over the telephone or at investment seminars, like many others. [Miller] lied to people in person, up close, sitting in their living rooms or at their kitchen tables, knowing full well the vulnerability of his victims and the inevitable devastation his deceit would cause them.”
The mail fraud charge is the result of a September 26, 2008 letter that Miller sent to investors, in which he falsely stated that investments made with him were performing well despite the economic downturn, and that his companies had more than $150 million in assets and only approximately $30 million in liabilities. In reality, at that point Miller and his investment companies were nearly out of money, his fraud scheme was collapsing, and he was considering fleeing the country.
Miller was taken into custody in November 2008 as he was preparing to leave the United States. The month before, Miller told a former associate that he wanted to obtain a fraudulent United States passport under a false name that he could use to flee the country. Miller and the former associate discussed the countries that they thought would be best to flee to, including those that did not have extradition treaties with the United States. On November 12, during a meeting at the Federal Building in Westwood with an undercover State Department agent whom Miller believed was a corrupt passport officer, Miller paid a $5,000 bribe to secure a bogus passport that was to be in the name of a former high school classmate who had recently died. The $5,000 came from money collected during his fraud scheme. After Miller completed the fraudulent passport application in the name of his deceased high school classmate and handed the undercover agent $5,000 in cash, he was arrested by agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Department of State.
Former Jersey City Housing Department Employee Indicted for Allegedly Accepting $50,000 in Corrupt Payments
A former Jersey City Housing Department employee was indicted today on charges in connection with his acceptance of $50,000 in corrupt cash payments in exchange for his official influence and assistance on real estate development matters in Jersey City, U.S. Attorney Paul J. Fishman announced.
The Indictment charges that John Guarini, 60, a Jersey City Housing Department property improvement field representative, conspired with Michael Altman, 39, of Monsey, N.Y., and Maher Khalil, 39, Jersey City, to extort cash payments from a government cooperating witness (CW) with the promise that Guarini would help the CW obtain real estate development approvals in Jersey City. The Indictment also alleges that Guarini attempted to commit extortion and bribery by accepting from the CW cash bribe payments of approximately $20,000 from in 2007, and approximately $30,000 in 2008.
The Indictment stems from an undercover FBI political corruption and international money laundering investigation that became public on July 23, 2009. Guarini, Khalil and Altman were all charged in criminal Complaints on that day. Khalil has already pleaded guilty to taking bribes from the CW for himself, and for facilitating bribes and illicit campaign contributions to public officials and political figures.
Guarini will appear in federal court for arraignment on the Indictment after the case is assigned to a U.S. District Judge.
According to the Indictment, Guarini first met the CW on July 11, 2007, after Altman arranged a meeting in the boiler room of a building owned by Altman. At that meeting, Guarini accepted two envelopes, each containing $10,000 cash, in exchange for Guarini’s official assistance in obtaining development approvals on a property located on Garfield Avenue in Jersey City. The Indictment further states that, after accepting payment, Guarini stated “everything looks good here” to create the appearance that he conducted a proper inspection and to conceal the corrupt transaction. Other meetings followed where Guarini accepted corrupt cash payments in consideration for his continued assistance on the Garfield Property, according to the Indictment. The payments were: $10,000 in cash in an envelope at a diner in Bayonne on March 26, 2008; an additional $10,000 cash in an envelope, later on March 26, that was accepted by Guarini and to be given to Khalil; and $10,000 cash in an envelope at a tavern in Jersey City on April 10, 2008.
According to the Indictment, during a meeting on March 16, 2008, Guarini touted his influence over the development approval process and reassured the CW that the CW would obtain development approvals by stating, “with me, it’s a guaranteed yes.” Also, after accepting a $10,000 payment on April 10, 2008, Guarini reiterated his importance to the approval process by advising the CW, “you’re gonna need me for everything.” On April 10, Guarini advised the CW that he had given the $10,000 payment from March 26 to Khalil, as represented by Guarini. However, at a meeting on May 8, 2008, Khalil stated that Guarini had never given him the $10,000 payment.
The Indictment charges Guarini with one count of conspiracy to obstruct commerce by extortion under color of official right, which carries a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine; four counts of attempted obstruction of commerce by extortion, each of which also carry a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine; four counts of bribery, each of which carry a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine; and one count each of aiding and assisting the preparation and presentation of a false and fraudulent tax return, and willfully subscribing to a false and fraudulent tax return, each carry a maximum penalty of 3 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. There also is a forfeiture count in which the government seeks return of the $50,000 in corrupt payments taken by Guarini.
Fishman credited Special Agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin B. Cruise, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge William P. Offord, for the investigation of Guarini. Fishman also thanked the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Luis A. Valentin, for their assistance in the investigation.
The Indictment charges that John Guarini, 60, a Jersey City Housing Department property improvement field representative, conspired with Michael Altman, 39, of Monsey, N.Y., and Maher Khalil, 39, Jersey City, to extort cash payments from a government cooperating witness (CW) with the promise that Guarini would help the CW obtain real estate development approvals in Jersey City. The Indictment also alleges that Guarini attempted to commit extortion and bribery by accepting from the CW cash bribe payments of approximately $20,000 from in 2007, and approximately $30,000 in 2008.
The Indictment stems from an undercover FBI political corruption and international money laundering investigation that became public on July 23, 2009. Guarini, Khalil and Altman were all charged in criminal Complaints on that day. Khalil has already pleaded guilty to taking bribes from the CW for himself, and for facilitating bribes and illicit campaign contributions to public officials and political figures.
Guarini will appear in federal court for arraignment on the Indictment after the case is assigned to a U.S. District Judge.
According to the Indictment, Guarini first met the CW on July 11, 2007, after Altman arranged a meeting in the boiler room of a building owned by Altman. At that meeting, Guarini accepted two envelopes, each containing $10,000 cash, in exchange for Guarini’s official assistance in obtaining development approvals on a property located on Garfield Avenue in Jersey City. The Indictment further states that, after accepting payment, Guarini stated “everything looks good here” to create the appearance that he conducted a proper inspection and to conceal the corrupt transaction. Other meetings followed where Guarini accepted corrupt cash payments in consideration for his continued assistance on the Garfield Property, according to the Indictment. The payments were: $10,000 in cash in an envelope at a diner in Bayonne on March 26, 2008; an additional $10,000 cash in an envelope, later on March 26, that was accepted by Guarini and to be given to Khalil; and $10,000 cash in an envelope at a tavern in Jersey City on April 10, 2008.
According to the Indictment, during a meeting on March 16, 2008, Guarini touted his influence over the development approval process and reassured the CW that the CW would obtain development approvals by stating, “with me, it’s a guaranteed yes.” Also, after accepting a $10,000 payment on April 10, 2008, Guarini reiterated his importance to the approval process by advising the CW, “you’re gonna need me for everything.” On April 10, Guarini advised the CW that he had given the $10,000 payment from March 26 to Khalil, as represented by Guarini. However, at a meeting on May 8, 2008, Khalil stated that Guarini had never given him the $10,000 payment.
The Indictment charges Guarini with one count of conspiracy to obstruct commerce by extortion under color of official right, which carries a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine; four counts of attempted obstruction of commerce by extortion, each of which also carry a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine; four counts of bribery, each of which carry a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine; and one count each of aiding and assisting the preparation and presentation of a false and fraudulent tax return, and willfully subscribing to a false and fraudulent tax return, each carry a maximum penalty of 3 years in prison and a fine up to $100,000. There also is a forfeiture count in which the government seeks return of the $50,000 in corrupt payments taken by Guarini.
Fishman credited Special Agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin B. Cruise, and the IRS Criminal Investigation Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge William P. Offord, for the investigation of Guarini. Fishman also thanked the Monmouth County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Luis A. Valentin, for their assistance in the investigation.
Thursday, January 14, 2010
High Fuel Costs: A Problem-Solving Challenge
As rising fuel costs put the squeeze on law enforcement department budgets, chiefs and sheriffs are searching for ways to sustain their current level of operations while using less gasoline. Some are finding their solutions in differential responses to calls for service, modified patrol methods, and use of vehicles with improved gas mileage or alternative fuels.
With the average price of regular unleaded gasoline approaching $4.00 a gallon and no end to the increase in sight, departments across the country might not yet be feeling the pressure to drive less, but they certainly are taking notice of the impact on their budgets, especially as we head into the traditionally high-demand, price-increasing summer months. For those faced with the puzzle of how to meet the increasing demands on police services while minimizing fuel costs, there are no easy answers. Officers, particularly those who patrol and answer 911 calls, need cars, and cars need gasoline.
Our review of recent news coverage of higher fuel costs as well as conversations with a variety of law enforcement officials suggest that there are a number of ways that agencies can mitigate the impact on their agency budget. This article strives to highlight some short-term as well as potentially long-term solutions we found—an important consideration because gas is unlikely to return to the lower prices enjoyed in the past.
Read On
http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/html/dispatch/May_2008/fuel_costs.htm
With the average price of regular unleaded gasoline approaching $4.00 a gallon and no end to the increase in sight, departments across the country might not yet be feeling the pressure to drive less, but they certainly are taking notice of the impact on their budgets, especially as we head into the traditionally high-demand, price-increasing summer months. For those faced with the puzzle of how to meet the increasing demands on police services while minimizing fuel costs, there are no easy answers. Officers, particularly those who patrol and answer 911 calls, need cars, and cars need gasoline.
Our review of recent news coverage of higher fuel costs as well as conversations with a variety of law enforcement officials suggest that there are a number of ways that agencies can mitigate the impact on their agency budget. This article strives to highlight some short-term as well as potentially long-term solutions we found—an important consideration because gas is unlikely to return to the lower prices enjoyed in the past.
Read On
http://www.cops.usdoj.gov/html/dispatch/May_2008/fuel_costs.htm
Dallas CBP Seizes Rain Sticks, Counterfeit BlackBerry Covers
January 14, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers made two seizures January 12, involving endangered plant species and counterfeit BlackBerry® cell phone covers. “These types of seizures illustrate our commitment to enforcing hundreds of U.S. laws and regulations,” said Jeffrey O. Baldwin Sr., director of CBP’s Houston Field Operations. “Protecting endangered species and protecting intellectual property rights cover a small spectrum of the laws we are charged with enforcing while protecting the nation from terrorists and terrorists weapons.”
A K-9 team on duty at Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport discovered the endangered plant when a trained agriculture beagle alerted to the plant material in a passenger’s luggage. When asked about the luggage, the passenger admitted to carrying 34 rain sticks from Chile.
Rain sticks are usually made from any of several species of cactus. The cacti, which are hollow, are dried by the sun. The spines are removed and driven back into the cactus, like nails. The cacti used to make the seized rain sticks are listed on the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species list.
This list is an international agreement between governments to protect 33,000 endangered species of animals and plants. The seized rain sticks were turned over to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.
In a separate seizure, CBP officers discovered 22 cartons of counterfeit silicone cell phone covers displaying the BlackBerry® word mark. The counterfeit cell phone covers have a manufactured retail suggested price of more than $135,000 and a domestic value of about $82,500.
The shipment originated in China and was destined to South America. This shipment was turned over to CBP’s Fines, Penalties and Forfeitures division for disposition.
New York CBP Officers find Marijuana in Vehicle including Under Child's Car Seat
January 13, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection Field Operations announced the seizure of 35 pounds of marijuana and the arrest of two residents of Canada in the smuggling attempt. On January 12, CBP officers encountered 24-year-old Victoria Giasson and 22-year-old Elizabeth Deer- Downes, both residents of Kahnawake, Quebec, as they applied for admission into the United States at the Champlain, N.Y. port of entry. The subjects advised the primary CBP officer that they were destined to Plattsburgh, N.Y. to shop and had nothing to declare. A cursory inspection of the vehicle’s trunk revealed vacuum-sealed bags of what appeared to be marijuana. Both subjects were secured and escorted into the CBP facility. The vehicle was taken to a secondary inspection area for further examination.
During the course of the vehicle inspection, CBP officers discovered 49 bags of marijuana concealed in the spare tire area of the trunk. Further inspection of the vehicle interior revealed an additional 12 bags of marijuana under the rear seat covered by the child’s seat in which Deer-Downes 3-year-old daughter was secured.
“The marijuana seized by CBP had a total weight of 35 pounds and a street value of approximately $100,000,” said Acting Director of Field Operations for the Buffalo Field Office James Collingwood.
Both subjects were arrested for possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, and turned over to the Clinton County Sheriff's Office for prosecution by the Clinton County District Attorney’s Office. Deer-Downes 3-year-old daughter was subsequently turned over to the custody of her grandmother. The vehicle was also seized by CBP and turned over to the Clinton County Sheriff's Office as evidence.
During the course of the vehicle inspection, CBP officers discovered 49 bags of marijuana concealed in the spare tire area of the trunk. Further inspection of the vehicle interior revealed an additional 12 bags of marijuana under the rear seat covered by the child’s seat in which Deer-Downes 3-year-old daughter was secured.
“The marijuana seized by CBP had a total weight of 35 pounds and a street value of approximately $100,000,” said Acting Director of Field Operations for the Buffalo Field Office James Collingwood.
Both subjects were arrested for possession with the intent to distribute a controlled substance, and turned over to the Clinton County Sheriff's Office for prosecution by the Clinton County District Attorney’s Office. Deer-Downes 3-year-old daughter was subsequently turned over to the custody of her grandmother. The vehicle was also seized by CBP and turned over to the Clinton County Sheriff's Office as evidence.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
CBP in Savannah Seizes Counterfeit Handbags, Nike Sneakers
January 13, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the Port of Savannah, Ga. intercepted and seized a shipment of counterfeit designer handbags and Nike sneakers, officials announced yesterday. The shipment had a total domestic value of $216,000 and a manufacturers’ suggested retail price of $7.1 million.
The shipment was selected for examination after CBP officers became suspicious of the documentation that had been submitted for the shipment. Upon physical inspection of the cargo, CBP officers found a total of 5,656 name-brand designer bags bearing the names of Chanel, Coach and Louis Vuitton as well as 4,624 pairs of Nike “Air Max” sneakers. After determining the items violated trademark laws, the shipment was seized December 30.
“CBP plays a vital role in the protection of the American consumer and businesses in the United States,” said John Porter, area port director in Savannah. “Violations such as these are very serious in nature. This seizure illustrates the hard work CBP performs daily in combating the illegitimate trade in counterfeit goods.”
To address the ongoing threat to domestic industries and the need to identify and interdict counterfeited goods, CBP works closely with private industry, U.S. government agencies and foreign governments to stem the flow of illegal goods to protect consumers and the economy.
The shipment was selected for examination after CBP officers became suspicious of the documentation that had been submitted for the shipment. Upon physical inspection of the cargo, CBP officers found a total of 5,656 name-brand designer bags bearing the names of Chanel, Coach and Louis Vuitton as well as 4,624 pairs of Nike “Air Max” sneakers. After determining the items violated trademark laws, the shipment was seized December 30.
“CBP plays a vital role in the protection of the American consumer and businesses in the United States,” said John Porter, area port director in Savannah. “Violations such as these are very serious in nature. This seizure illustrates the hard work CBP performs daily in combating the illegitimate trade in counterfeit goods.”
To address the ongoing threat to domestic industries and the need to identify and interdict counterfeited goods, CBP works closely with private industry, U.S. government agencies and foreign governments to stem the flow of illegal goods to protect consumers and the economy.
In 1 Day, Nogales CBP Officers Foil 4 Marijuana Smuggling Attempts
January 12, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the Nogales ports of entry foiled four different attempts to smuggle 159 pounds of marijuana into the United States. The street value of the illicit drug is estimated to be almost $354,000. Three United States citizens and a Mexican citizen were arrested in connection with the botched attempts.
The first attempt was at approximately 11 a.m., a Dodge Ram pick-up truck occupied by a husband and wife from Sonora, Mexico applied for entry at the Mariposa port of entry. A CBP officer and a narcotic detection dog were working the primary inspection area, when the dog alerted to the gas tank the truck. The truck was taken to X-ray where officers observed anomalies in the gas tank. Officers conducted an intensive inspection of the truck and discovered 27 packages hidden within the gas tank. The packages contained 40 pounds of marijuana.
Less than an hour and a half later, another Dodge Ram pick-up truck applied for entry at the DeConcini port of entry. The truck was driven by a 40-year-old Arizona woman. Officers utilized a narcotic detection dog who alerted to the gas tank of the truck. A total of 23 packages were removed from the tank containing 44 pounds of marijuana.
The other two seizures occurred later that night. At 7 p.m. a 40-year-old Arizona man was arrested for having four packages of marijuana hidden in a speaker box. The total weight of the packages was 21 pounds.
The final arrest was of a 23-year-old Arizona man who attempted to smuggle 54 pounds of marijuana in the backseat of a Jeep Cherokee.
In all four smuggling attempts, the narcotics and the vehicles were seized. Those arrested were turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation.
Agents Seize $4 Million in Cocaine Hidden in Sailboat
January 12, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection agents discovered 335 kilograms of cocaine hidden in a secret compartment on a sailing vessel. The drugs have an estimated value of more than $4 million. A U.S. Customs and Border Protection Marine Unit, in conjunction with Ft. Lauderdale police and the Broward County sheriffs office, conducted a boarding on a 32’ sailing vessel Friday bearing the name “Sea Ya.” While on board, CBP Agents discovered an area that appeared inconsistent with the surrounding area of the vessel.
The determination was made to drill a hole through the compartment to observe the unaccounted space. After drilling two holes through the bottom of the aft starboard deck storage locker, numerous square packages wrapped in plastic were readily visible. Subsequently, the inner deck box was removed revealing 335 kilo-sized packages of a white powdery substance which later tested positive for cocaine.
The master of the vessel was arrested at the scene and the owner of the vessel was subsequently arrested later that evening. The drugs and both individuals were turned over to ICE. The sailing vessel valued at approximately $100,000 was seized by the CBP Ft Lauderdale Marine Unit.
CBP’s Office of Air and Marine protects the American people and critical infrastructure by using an integrated and coordinated air and marine force to detect, interdict and prevent acts of terrorism arising from unlawful movement of people, illegal drugs and other contraband moving toward or crossing the borders of the United States.
The determination was made to drill a hole through the compartment to observe the unaccounted space. After drilling two holes through the bottom of the aft starboard deck storage locker, numerous square packages wrapped in plastic were readily visible. Subsequently, the inner deck box was removed revealing 335 kilo-sized packages of a white powdery substance which later tested positive for cocaine.
The master of the vessel was arrested at the scene and the owner of the vessel was subsequently arrested later that evening. The drugs and both individuals were turned over to ICE. The sailing vessel valued at approximately $100,000 was seized by the CBP Ft Lauderdale Marine Unit.
CBP’s Office of Air and Marine protects the American people and critical infrastructure by using an integrated and coordinated air and marine force to detect, interdict and prevent acts of terrorism arising from unlawful movement of people, illegal drugs and other contraband moving toward or crossing the borders of the United States.
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
Border Patrol Seizes Quarter Million in Undeclared Currency during Vehicle Stop
January 11, 2010: U.S. Border Patrol agents seized a Dodge pickup truck and more than $270,000 in cash during a vehicle stop last Monday near Blythe, Calif. At about 3:30 a.m., Border Patrol agents assigned to the Blythe Station stopped a Dodge pickup truck on Interstate 10. Prior to stopping the vehicle, agents ran registration checks on the vehicle’s license plate, but the plate was registered to a Suzuki sport utility vehicle.
During the stop, agents determined that both the driver and passenger were Mexican citizens illegally present in the United States. The agents transported the Dodge pickup and the two illegal aliens to the Blythe Border Patrol Station for processing.
While at the station, agents were performing an inventory of the vehicle’s contents when they discovered several bundles of cash inside a tarp hidden in the bed of the truck.
Agents uncovered 31 bundles containing $276,000 in cash. Agents transported the money to the San Luis, Ariz. Port of Entry where it will be held while it is being processed for seizure. The driver and passenger were processed for removal.
During fiscal year 2009, Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents seized $460,508 in U.S. currency. Since October 1, 2009, Yuma Sector has seized $547,942, already surpassing currency seizures from the previous fiscal year.
During the stop, agents determined that both the driver and passenger were Mexican citizens illegally present in the United States. The agents transported the Dodge pickup and the two illegal aliens to the Blythe Border Patrol Station for processing.
While at the station, agents were performing an inventory of the vehicle’s contents when they discovered several bundles of cash inside a tarp hidden in the bed of the truck.
Agents uncovered 31 bundles containing $276,000 in cash. Agents transported the money to the San Luis, Ariz. Port of Entry where it will be held while it is being processed for seizure. The driver and passenger were processed for removal.
During fiscal year 2009, Yuma Sector Border Patrol agents seized $460,508 in U.S. currency. Since October 1, 2009, Yuma Sector has seized $547,942, already surpassing currency seizures from the previous fiscal year.
CBP in San Diego Has Busy Enforcement Weekend
Monday, January 11, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the ports of entry in San Diego County over the weekend seized narcotics valued at $821,000, arrested nine wanted fugitives, apprehended 191 illegal aliens, and assessed six penalties for prohibited agricultural items. From 6 a.m. on Friday through 6 a.m. Monday, CBP officers at San Ysidro, Otay Mesa, and the Tecate ports of entry intercepted 11 smuggling attempts of marijuana and methamphetamine totaling 1,000 pounds. The drugs were hidden in various areas of the vehicles such as in the gas tank, in the quarter panels, and the spare tire. All 11 vehicle and the narcotics were seized by CBP. CBP officers captured nine individuals wanted on outstanding felony warrants for such crimes as homicide, larceny, and burglary during the three days.
Officers also stopped 191 illegal aliens from who attempted to illegally enter the country hidden within vehicles or by presenting fraudulent documents or valid documents not legally issued to them.
Of those apprehended, seven were aliens previously deported, five of which were criminal aliens; all seven were processed and charged criminally at the ports of entry.
Officers also prevented the entry of avocados, pork products, coconuts, and plant material, all prohibited, and assessed penalties of $2,250 over the weekend.
Officers also stopped 191 illegal aliens from who attempted to illegally enter the country hidden within vehicles or by presenting fraudulent documents or valid documents not legally issued to them.
Of those apprehended, seven were aliens previously deported, five of which were criminal aliens; all seven were processed and charged criminally at the ports of entry.
Officers also prevented the entry of avocados, pork products, coconuts, and plant material, all prohibited, and assessed penalties of $2,250 over the weekend.
Arizona CBP Officers Find Woman in Trunk
January 11, 2010: U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers stopped a human smuggling attempt when they found a woman hiding in a trunk of a vehicle. On January 10 at about 7 p.m. CBP officers were screening travelers when they became suspicious of a 2006 Hyundai being driven by a 49-year-old woman from Bisbee, Ariz. CBP officers searched the vehicle. As the CBP officers opened the trunk to investigate further, they discovered a woman who had been hiding in the trunk covered with a blanket, in hopes to enter the United Sates undetected. The woman was identified as a 26-year-old Mexican national and resident of Naco, Sonora, Mexico.
CBP officers seized the vehicle for alien smuggling. The Mexican national was processed in accordance with the Immigration and Nationality Act and returned to Mexico. The Bisbee woman was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and possible prosecution.
CBP officers seized the vehicle for alien smuggling. The Mexican national was processed in accordance with the Immigration and Nationality Act and returned to Mexico. The Bisbee woman was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and possible prosecution.
Juvenile Residential Facility Census, 2006: Selected Findings
(NCJ 228128) December 2009
OJJDP National Report Series, Bulletin, 20 page(s)
Collects information about the facilities in which juvenile offenders are held including characteristics such as size, structure, type, ownership, and security arrangements. They also describe the range of services they provide to youth in their care, including education, physical health, mental health, and substance abuse services. In addition, facilities report on the number of deaths of youth in custody during the prior 12 months. Data indicate that the population of juvenile offenders in custody decreased 3 percent from 2004, a trend that may be explained by the decline in juvenile arrests.
Download the Report
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/ojjdp/228128.pdf
OJJDP National Report Series, Bulletin, 20 page(s)
Collects information about the facilities in which juvenile offenders are held including characteristics such as size, structure, type, ownership, and security arrangements. They also describe the range of services they provide to youth in their care, including education, physical health, mental health, and substance abuse services. In addition, facilities report on the number of deaths of youth in custody during the prior 12 months. Data indicate that the population of juvenile offenders in custody decreased 3 percent from 2004, a trend that may be explained by the decline in juvenile arrests.
Download the Report
http://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/ojjdp/228128.pdf
Monday, January 11, 2010
Border Patrol in Texas Responds to Burglary Call, Arrests Member of Mexican Mafia
January 08, 2010: U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Carrizo Springs Station arrested a Mexican Mafia member Thursday morning. Agents patrolling near Asherton, Texas received a report of a burglary in progress. When agents arrived at the scene they saw a subject fleeing from a residence. Agents gave chase and took the individual into custody and recovered two rifles and a shotgun in the area.
The subject, a 24-year-old United States Citizen, admitted to being an active member of the Mexican Mafia criminal organization. Record checks indicated that he is wanted burglary of habitation and various probation violations.
The stolen property and the subject were turned over to the Dimmit County Sheriffs Office.
The subject, a 24-year-old United States Citizen, admitted to being an active member of the Mexican Mafia criminal organization. Record checks indicated that he is wanted burglary of habitation and various probation violations.
The stolen property and the subject were turned over to the Dimmit County Sheriffs Office.
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