January 20, 2010 - Matthew Wyrick 35, of Olathe, Kansas, and his father-in-law, Robert Steele, 64, of Gardner, Kansas, have been charged in a federal indictment, returned in Fort Worth last week, on charges of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney James T. Jacks of the Northern District of Texas. Steele surrendered to federal authorities in Kansas City, Kansas last Friday. After an initial appearance there, he was ordered to appear before Magistrate Judge Charles Bleil in Fort Worth on Friday, January 29, 2010.
According to the one-count indictment, Wyrick was an employee of Burlington Northern Santa Fe Railway (BNSF) and was authorized to approve certain invoices for payment to BNSF contractors. Between March 2005 and August 2007, Wyrick and Steele, who operated “S&S Erectors,” conspired together to defraud BNSF.
As part of the scheme, Wyrick recruited BNSF vendors, including S&S Erectors, to submit fraudulent invoices to BNSF. Wyrick would approve the invoices, causing BNSF to pay the vendors. After the vendors received payment from BNSF for the fraudulent invoices, they would pay Wyrick a portion of the proceeds.
In March 2005, Wyrick recruited Steel to become a contractor for BNSF. Wyrick then prepared a “Vendor Master and Accounts Payable” request for S&S Erectors, which failed to disclose that Steele was his father-in-law. In September 2005, Steele executed a contract to provide services to BNSF. Over the course of the scheme, Wyrick and Steele caused S&S Erectors to bill BNSF over $1.8 million. Steel paid Wyrick more than $600,000 of the proceeds from S&S Erectors’ contract with BNSF
Between April 5, 2006, and June 11, 2007, for example, Wyrick and Steele caused S&S Erectors to submit 21 invoices totaling $328,948 to BNSF for hazardous waste disposal associated with a BNSF project. Those invoices were fraudulent because the waste disposal was not “hazardous” and, in fact, was disposed of by S&S Erectors for less than $10,000.
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, each defendant faces a maximum statutory sentence of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.
The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert A. Klinck is in charge of the prosecution.
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Seeking Information on Robbery of Wachovia Bank Branch on Garland Road
January 20, 2010 - Robert E. Casey Jr., Special Agent In Charge, Dallas FBI, is seeking the public’s assistance for information concerning the bank robbery which occurred at the Wachovia Bank, 9508 Garland Road, Dallas, Texas on January 19, 2009.
Preliminary investigation indicates one (1) white male and one (1) black male entered the Wachovia Bank at approximately 3:05 p.m. The white male robber approached one of the tellers and verbally announced the robbery and demanded money. A handgun was shown. No one was hurt.
One robber is described as a male, white, approximately 30-40 years old, 5’09 tall, weighing approximately 150 pounds, with brown hair. This robber was last seen wearing a striped stocking cap, sunglasses, a dark jacket that had the appearance of being a security guard jacket, dark slacks, dark shoes, and gloves. The second robber is described as male, black, 5’10 tall, weighing approximately 180-200 pounds, with black hair. This robber was last seen wearing striped stocking cap, sunglasses, a dark jacket that had the appearance of being a security guard jacket, dark slacks, dark shoes, and light colored gloves. The robbers were seen leaving the bank on foot, no known direction of travel.
It is believed these two robbers were also responsible for the January 8, 2010, robbery of the Liberty Federal Savings located at 6220 Gaston Avenue, Dallas, Texas.
The FBI and Dallas Police Department are jointly investigating this robbery.
Anyone recognizing these robbers or having information about their current whereabouts should call the Dallas FBI Office of the FBI at 972-559-5000 or their local police agency. These persons should not be approached by citizens who may recognize them or know their whereabouts.
Preliminary investigation indicates one (1) white male and one (1) black male entered the Wachovia Bank at approximately 3:05 p.m. The white male robber approached one of the tellers and verbally announced the robbery and demanded money. A handgun was shown. No one was hurt.
One robber is described as a male, white, approximately 30-40 years old, 5’09 tall, weighing approximately 150 pounds, with brown hair. This robber was last seen wearing a striped stocking cap, sunglasses, a dark jacket that had the appearance of being a security guard jacket, dark slacks, dark shoes, and gloves. The second robber is described as male, black, 5’10 tall, weighing approximately 180-200 pounds, with black hair. This robber was last seen wearing striped stocking cap, sunglasses, a dark jacket that had the appearance of being a security guard jacket, dark slacks, dark shoes, and light colored gloves. The robbers were seen leaving the bank on foot, no known direction of travel.
It is believed these two robbers were also responsible for the January 8, 2010, robbery of the Liberty Federal Savings located at 6220 Gaston Avenue, Dallas, Texas.
The FBI and Dallas Police Department are jointly investigating this robbery.
Anyone recognizing these robbers or having information about their current whereabouts should call the Dallas FBI Office of the FBI at 972-559-5000 or their local police agency. These persons should not be approached by citizens who may recognize them or know their whereabouts.
Gibson Woman Pleads Guilty to Defrauding American Red Cross
SANDRA D. WILLIAMS, age 45, a resident of Gibson, LA, pled guilty in federal court today before U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. to one count of mail fraud relating to fraudulent applications for financial assistance she submitted to the American Red Cross between September 2005 and October 2005, announced U.S. Attorney Jim Letten.
According to court documents, the Red Cross made disaster assistance money of up to $1,565 available to those affected by the hurricanes of 2005 on a one-time only basis. WILLIAMS admitted that on 12 occasions during the fall of 2005, she applied for and received disaster assistance funds from the American Red Cross. In each application, she indicated she had not yet received any money from the Red Cross. In all, WILLIAMS fraudulently obtained $9,390 from the American Red Cross.
WILLIAMS faces a possible maximum sentence of twenty (20) years' imprisonment, a $250,0000 fine, three (3) years supervised release, and restitution to the American Red Cross. Sentencing has been scheduled for April 28, 2010.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan E. Lieberman
According to court documents, the Red Cross made disaster assistance money of up to $1,565 available to those affected by the hurricanes of 2005 on a one-time only basis. WILLIAMS admitted that on 12 occasions during the fall of 2005, she applied for and received disaster assistance funds from the American Red Cross. In each application, she indicated she had not yet received any money from the Red Cross. In all, WILLIAMS fraudulently obtained $9,390 from the American Red Cross.
WILLIAMS faces a possible maximum sentence of twenty (20) years' imprisonment, a $250,0000 fine, three (3) years supervised release, and restitution to the American Red Cross. Sentencing has been scheduled for April 28, 2010.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan E. Lieberman
Slidell Woman Sentenced for Defrauding American Red Cross
STACIE M. DAWSON, age 47, a resident of Slidell, Louisiana, was sentenced in federal court today in front of U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval Jr. to four (4) months' imprisonment after pleading guilty to one count of wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Jim Letten. In addition, DAWSON was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $7,860.00 to the American Red Cross and serve three (3) years of supervised release, during which time she will be under federal supervision and risks additional imprisonment should she violate any terms of the release.
According to court documents, the Red Cross made disaster assistance money of up to $1565 available to those affected by the hurricanes of 2005 on a one-time only basis. DAWSON admitted that she applied for and received disaster assistance funds from the Red Cross up to seven times between September 9, 2005 and October 6, 2005. DAWSON repeatedly applied for these funds throughout the early fall of 2005, each time indicating that she had not yet received any money from the Red Cross. In all, DAWSON fraudulently obtained $7,860.00 from the American Red Cross.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ginsberg.
According to court documents, the Red Cross made disaster assistance money of up to $1565 available to those affected by the hurricanes of 2005 on a one-time only basis. DAWSON admitted that she applied for and received disaster assistance funds from the Red Cross up to seven times between September 9, 2005 and October 6, 2005. DAWSON repeatedly applied for these funds throughout the early fall of 2005, each time indicating that she had not yet received any money from the Red Cross. In all, DAWSON fraudulently obtained $7,860.00 from the American Red Cross.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Louisiana. The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jordan Ginsberg.
LaPlace Man Pleads Guilty to Defrauding American Red Cross
January 20, 2010 - WALLACE BOURGEOIS, JR., age 35, a resident of LaPlace, Louisiana, pled guilty in federal court today before U.S. District Judge Stanwood R. Duval, Jr. to one count of wire fraud relating to fraudulent applications for financial assistance he submitted to the American Red Cross between September 2005 and October 2005, announced U.S. Attorney Jim Letten.
According to court documents, BOURGEOIS applied for and received disaster assistance funds from the American Red Cross six times. The Red Cross made disaster assistance money of up to $1565 available to those affected by the hurricanes of 2005 on a one-time only basis. BOURGEOIS repeatedly applied for these funds throughout the early fall of 2005, indicating he had not yet received any money at all from the Red Cross. In all, BOURGEOIS fraudulently obtained $7,525 from the American Red Cross.
BOURGEOIS faces a possible maximum sentence of twenty (20) years' imprisonment, a $250,0000 fine, and three (3) years of supervised release. Sentencing has been scheduled for April 28, 2010.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan E. Lieberman.
According to court documents, BOURGEOIS applied for and received disaster assistance funds from the American Red Cross six times. The Red Cross made disaster assistance money of up to $1565 available to those affected by the hurricanes of 2005 on a one-time only basis. BOURGEOIS repeatedly applied for these funds throughout the early fall of 2005, indicating he had not yet received any money at all from the Red Cross. In all, BOURGEOIS fraudulently obtained $7,525 from the American Red Cross.
BOURGEOIS faces a possible maximum sentence of twenty (20) years' imprisonment, a $250,0000 fine, and three (3) years of supervised release. Sentencing has been scheduled for April 28, 2010.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The prosecution is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Sharan E. Lieberman.
Franklin Man Pleads Guilty to Child Pornography Charges
January 20, 2010 - WILBER RAY CRAIN, 36, of Franklin, Louisiana, pled guilty in federal court today before U.S. District Judge Ivan L. R. Lemelle to felonies involving the sexual exploitation of children, announced U.S. Attorney Jim Letten today.
According to the factual basis, CRAIN admitted that on July 8, 2008, agents from the Attorney General’s Office and Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office executed a state search warrant at CRAIN’s Franklin residence and found the defendant in possession of a computer and related computer equipment that contained approximately 60 images and eight videos depicting the sexual victimization of children.
CRAIN faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in federal prison. Upon his release from custody he will be placed on supervised release up to a term of life, be required to give a DNA sample, and will have to register as a sex offender. Sentencing has been scheduled for April 28, 2010.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States 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 High Tech Crimes Unit of the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by Project Safe Childhood Coordinator Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba.
According to the factual basis, CRAIN admitted that on July 8, 2008, agents from the Attorney General’s Office and Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office executed a state search warrant at CRAIN’s Franklin residence and found the defendant in possession of a computer and related computer equipment that contained approximately 60 images and eight videos depicting the sexual victimization of children.
CRAIN faces a maximum sentence of ten (10) years in federal prison. Upon his release from custody he will be placed on supervised release up to a term of life, be required to give a DNA sample, and will have to register as a sex offender. Sentencing has been scheduled for April 28, 2010.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by United States 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 High Tech Crimes Unit of the Louisiana Attorney General’s Office, the Washington Parish Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The prosecution of this case is being handled by Project Safe Childhood Coordinator Assistant U.S. Attorney Brian M. Klebba.
CBP in San Diego Seizes $2.2 Million in Narcotics, Catches 13 Fugitives, Undeclared Money
January 19, 2010 - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at ports of entry along the California/ Mexico border seized almost 2,900 pounds of narcotics valued at $2.2 million, captured 13 fugitives, and stopped the illegal entry of 417 persons over the busy holiday weekend.
From 6 a.m. on Friday through 6 a.m. on Tuesday, CBP officers at the six land ports of entry intercepted 16 smuggling attempts involving marijuana and methamphetamine. The drugs were hidden in various areas of the vehicles such as in the gas tank, in the bumpers and the spare tire.
The largest seizure occurred at the San Ysidro border station on Sunday at about 1:30 p.m. after a detector dog alerted to a the back wall of a motor-home pulled by a Ford F-350 pickup as it and the two female occupants waited in line to be inspected. The women and conveyance were escorted into the secondary area for a more intensive examination.
Officers subsequently discovered 78 wrapped packages of marijuana in the rear wall of the motor home weighing 1,764 pounds, valued at more than $1 million.
Both the driver, a 34-year-old U.S. citizen from Big Bear, Calif., and her passenger, a 46-year-old U.S. citizen from West Covina, Calif., were turned over to Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents and transported to the Metropolitan Correctional Center. CBP seized the narcotics and conveyance.
Also on Sunday, at approximately 8:40 a.m. while conducting a primary vehicle inspection at the Calexico downtown port, a detector dog alert to a 1998 Ford Windstar driven by a 44-year-old male who was accompanied by his 36-ear-old spouse and 10-ear-old son, all of whom are Mexican citizens.
Further inspection on the vehicle resulted in the discovery of 118 “brick-like” packages concealed in the dashboard, seats, quarter-panels, spare tire and roof. The packages tested positive for marijuana weighing just over 234 pounds with an estimated value of more than $140,000. The driver was arrested and turned over to ICE agents.
On Monday morning, at about 7:40 a.m. while conducting southbound inspections at the Calexico downtown port of entry, an officer received a negative declaration for weapons and money in excess of $10,000 from a male 34-year-old Mexican citizen driving a 1999 Ford F-150. At the same time a canine unit alerted to a black jacket inside the vehicle.
Further vehicle inspection and a routine pat-down revealed $31,477 in undeclared cash that was concealed in the suspect’s jacket, jean pockets, socks and gym bag in the vehicle. The suspect was arrested and turned over to ICE agents.
CBP officers captured 13 individuals wanted on outstanding felony warrants for such crimes as larceny, fraud, and parole violations during the four days.
Officers also stopped 417 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.
Border Patrol in Arizona Assists Task Force in Currency Seizure
January 19, 2010 - U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to the Ajo Station assisted the High Intensity Drug Traffic Area (HIDTA) task force yesterday in discovering close to $400,000 hidden in a vehicle. Ajo Patrol Agent in Charge Brian Hastings said, “Defense in depth, operations, utilizing checkpoints and partnerships with other agencies continue to prove effective in disrupting criminal activities.” He further said, “This is another example of dividends gained from law enforcement partnerships and the utilization of advanced technology to provide national security.”
Officers assigned to the HIDTA task force pulled over a suspicious vehicle and requested assistance from Border Patrol agents assigned to the Ajo Station. The vehicle was transported to a Border Patrol checkpoint in the West Desert where a canine team alerted to the vehicle. Agents utilized non-intrusive X-ray technology and discovered an anomaly in the trunk of the vehicle, revealing close to $400,000 in U.S. Currency. The HIDTA task force took possession of the money and the vehicle pending further investigation.
The Tucson Sector Border Patrol continues working in conjunction with local and federal law enforcement agencies to achieve our shared goal of reducing crime within our communities and improving the quality of life.
Hartford Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to Federal Prison
January 20, 2010 - Nora R. Dannehy, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, today announced that JOSE CARABALLO, also known as “Vidal” and “El Baboso,” 41, a citizen of the Dominican Republic last residing on Nahum Drive in Hartford, was sentenced yesterday, January 19, by Senior United States District Judge Warren W. Eginton in Bridgeport 12 months and one day of imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for his participation in a Hartford-area narcotics trafficking ring. On October 30, 2009, CARABALLO pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine.
This matter stems from “Operation Solid Gold,” a joint law enforcement investigation headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force. The year-long investigation included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of cocaine and heroin, and physical surveillance. As a result of the investigation, 55 individuals were charged with various offenses related to the distribution of cocaine and heroin in and around Hartford.
According to court documents and statements made in court, CARABALLO was intercepted over a wiretap negotiating the purchase of cocaine from another member of the conspiracy. CARABALLO then sold some or all of the cocaine to his own customers.
CARABALLO has been detained since his arrest on February 26, 2009. He faces immigration proceedings after he completes his prison term.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, the Statewide Cooperative Crime Control Task Force of the Connecticut State Police and the Hartford Police Department, with assistance from the Statewide Organized Crime Investigative Task Force of the Connecticut State Police, Connecticut State Police, Troop H, and the Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brian P. Leaming and Geoffrey M. Stone.
This matter stems from “Operation Solid Gold,” a joint law enforcement investigation headed by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force. The year-long investigation included the use of court-authorized wiretaps, controlled purchases of cocaine and heroin, and physical surveillance. As a result of the investigation, 55 individuals were charged with various offenses related to the distribution of cocaine and heroin in and around Hartford.
According to court documents and statements made in court, CARABALLO was intercepted over a wiretap negotiating the purchase of cocaine from another member of the conspiracy. CARABALLO then sold some or all of the cocaine to his own customers.
CARABALLO has been detained since his arrest on February 26, 2009. He faces immigration proceedings after he completes his prison term.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Northern Connecticut Violent Crimes Task Force, the Statewide Cooperative Crime Control Task Force of the Connecticut State Police and the Hartford Police Department, with assistance from the Statewide Organized Crime Investigative Task Force of the Connecticut State Police, Connecticut State Police, Troop H, and the Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brian P. Leaming and Geoffrey M. Stone.
New Haven Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking Cocaine
January 20, 2010 - Nora R. Dannehy, United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut, announced that RUBEN GARCIA, 34, of Middletown Avenue, New Haven, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Stefan R. Underhill in Bridgeport to 30 months of imprisonment, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking cocaine. Judge Underhill also imposed a $5,000 fine. On August 28, 2009, GARCIA pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
This matter stems from an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) investigation dubbed “Operation Brass Deal,” which was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force in New Haven. As a result of the investigation, a total of 16 individuals have been charged with various narcotics offenses related to the large-scale distribution of cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and oxycodone in New Haven, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, and other towns in New Haven County. During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized more than $75,000 in cash, more than one kilogram of cocaine, and approximately 750 grams of crack cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 1, 2009, GARCIA was arrested after accepting delivery of approximately 500 grams of cocaine, which he intended to distribute.
This matter was investigated by the FBI New Haven Safe Streets Task Force, which is composed of representatives of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Haven Police Department, the Ansonia Police Department, the Milford Police Department, the East Haven Police Department, the Connecticut State Police, and the Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher M. Mattei and Robert M. Spector.
This matter stems from an Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) investigation dubbed “Operation Brass Deal,” which was spearheaded by the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Safe Streets Task Force in New Haven. As a result of the investigation, a total of 16 individuals have been charged with various narcotics offenses related to the large-scale distribution of cocaine, crack cocaine, marijuana, and oxycodone in New Haven, East Haven, Branford, West Haven, and other towns in New Haven County. During the investigation, law enforcement officers seized more than $75,000 in cash, more than one kilogram of cocaine, and approximately 750 grams of crack cocaine.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on May 1, 2009, GARCIA was arrested after accepting delivery of approximately 500 grams of cocaine, which he intended to distribute.
This matter was investigated by the FBI New Haven Safe Streets Task Force, which is composed of representatives of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the New Haven Police Department, the Ansonia Police Department, the Milford Police Department, the East Haven Police Department, the Connecticut State Police, and the Connecticut Department of Correction. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christopher M. Mattei and Robert M. Spector.
Former Mayoral Assistant Indicted on Bribery and Extortion Charges
January 20, 2010 - Today a federal grand jury returned a five-count indictment against DeDan C. Milton, 37, of Detroit, charging him with one count of conspiracy to commit bribery and extortion and two counts each of bribery and extortion, United States Attorney Barbara L. McQuade announced.
McQuade was joined in the announcement by Andrew G. Arena, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
DeDan Milton had served as an executive assistant to former Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick. The charges stem from the federal government’s investigation into bribes and kickbacks involving the sale of City of Detroit owned properties, including Camp Brighton in Livingston County and the Detroit Police Department’s 8th Precinct Station near West Grand River and Six Mile Road in Detroit.
Each extortion count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years and each bribery count a maximum of 10 years.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark D. Chutkow and R. Michael Bullotta.
McQuade was joined in the announcement by Andrew G. Arena, Special Agent in Charge of the Detroit Field Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
DeDan Milton had served as an executive assistant to former Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick. The charges stem from the federal government’s investigation into bribes and kickbacks involving the sale of City of Detroit owned properties, including Camp Brighton in Livingston County and the Detroit Police Department’s 8th Precinct Station near West Grand River and Six Mile Road in Detroit.
Each extortion count carries a maximum sentence of 20 years and each bribery count a maximum of 10 years.
The investigation of this case was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark D. Chutkow and R. Michael Bullotta.
Former Chief of Police for Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians Charged with Conspiracy to Defraud the United States
January 20, 2010 - Frederick James Paquin, age 52, of St. Ignace, Michigan, the former Chief of Police for the Sault Tribe of Chippewa Indians, was charged by a grand jury with multiple offenses related to a scheme to defraud the United States by dishonest means, U.S. Attorney Donald A. Davis announced today. In addition, the grand jury charged Paquin and his daughter, Mary Christine Cullen, age 28, also of St. Ignace, with multiple offenses related to an alleged conspiracy to pay Cullen as a full-time employee of the Tribe after she had moved on to a different job and was no longer working for the Tribe as a full-time employee.
The charges stem from Paquin’s alleged misuse of federal grant funds awarded to Paquin’s police department under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Tribal Resources Grant Program (TRGP) between 2002 and 2008. Grants awarded under the TRGP are intended to help Native American Tribes address their most serious unmet financial needs for law enforcement. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General, Fraud Detection Office.
U.S. Attorney Davis stated: “The respect and confidence that tribal members place in their tribal institutions is dependant upon receiving honest and faithful services from their tribal officials. This office will aggressively pursue and prosecute tribal officials who violate the law and their solemn oath and duties.”
Elise Chawaga, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of the Inspector General Fraud Detection Office, said “the Office of the Inspector General is committed to holding accountable public officials who betray the trust placed in them by using for personal gain Department of Justice grant funds that were intended to benefit the public.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Andrew G. Arena noted that “these charges are examples of corrupt government officials who have abused their positions for personal gain.” He added that “public corruption is a top criminal priority of the FBI and will not be tolerated. This investigation demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to investigating public corruption on every level and bringing those who betray the public’s trust to justice.”
The charges in this indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maarten Vermaat.
The charges stem from Paquin’s alleged misuse of federal grant funds awarded to Paquin’s police department under the U.S. Department of Justice’s Tribal Resources Grant Program (TRGP) between 2002 and 2008. Grants awarded under the TRGP are intended to help Native American Tribes address their most serious unmet financial needs for law enforcement. This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of the Inspector General, Fraud Detection Office.
U.S. Attorney Davis stated: “The respect and confidence that tribal members place in their tribal institutions is dependant upon receiving honest and faithful services from their tribal officials. This office will aggressively pursue and prosecute tribal officials who violate the law and their solemn oath and duties.”
Elise Chawaga, Special Agent in Charge for the Office of the Inspector General Fraud Detection Office, said “the Office of the Inspector General is committed to holding accountable public officials who betray the trust placed in them by using for personal gain Department of Justice grant funds that were intended to benefit the public.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Andrew G. Arena noted that “these charges are examples of corrupt government officials who have abused their positions for personal gain.” He added that “public corruption is a top criminal priority of the FBI and will not be tolerated. This investigation demonstrates the FBI’s commitment to investigating public corruption on every level and bringing those who betray the public’s trust to justice.”
The charges in this indictment are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Maarten Vermaat.
Former Koss Corporation Executive Charged in $31 Million Dollar Fraud
January 20, 2010 - United States Attorney James L. Santelle announced that a grand jury sitting in Milwaukee returned a six-count indictment charging Sujata Sachdeva (46) of Mequon, who is also known as Sue Sachdeva, with six counts of wire fraud. Ms. Sachdeva is the former Vice President of Finance, Secretary, and Principal Accounting Officer for Koss Corporation, a publicly traded company located in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
The indictment alleges that Sachdeva used her position at Koss to fraudulently obtain more than $31 million from Koss, which she used to purchase personal items and pay for personal expenses. According to the indictment, Sachdeva authorized numerous wire transfers of funds from bank accounts maintained by Koss to pay for her American Express credit card bills. In addition, Sachdeva used money from Koss’s bank accounts to fund numerous cashier’s checks, which she also used to pay her personal expenses. Sachdeva used the money she fraudulently obtained from Koss to purchase personal items including women’s clothing, furs, purses, shoes, jewelry, automobiles, china, statues, and other household furnishings. Sachdeva also used the money to pay for hotels, airline tickets, and other travel expenses for herself and others, to pay for renovations and improvements to her home, and to compensate individuals providing personal services to her and her family.
According to the indictment, Sachdeva sought to conceal her fraud by directing other Koss employees to make numerous fraudulent entries in Koss’s books and records to make it appear that Sachdeva’s fraudulent transfers were legitimate business transactions. Sachdeva directed Koss employees to conceal her fraudulent transfers as well as the fraudulent entries in Koss’s books and records from Koss’s management and auditors.
Each of the charges against Sachdeva is based on a specific wire transfer of funds from Koss’s bank account to American Express to pay for Sachdeva’s credit card bills.
The indictment also seeks the forfeiture of property alleged to have been purchased with the proceeds of Sachdeva’s fraud should she be convicted in this matter. Among this property is her residence located in Mequon, Wisconsin, a 2007 Mercedes Benz, and clothing, jewelry, art objects, and household items seized from Sachdeva’s home and two storage units she maintained in Milwaukee. In addition, the indictment seeks the forfeiture of various items of clothing, jewelry, art objects, and other items currently in the possession of five merchants in the Milwaukee area, as well as a hand-carved door and a vacation ownership interest in a resort property.
According to United States Attorney James L. Santelle “this case is one of the largest embezzlement cases ever brought in this district, and demonstrates the ongoing commitment of this office and the FBI to investigate and prosecute white collar offenses.”
Each count of the indictment carries a maximum possible penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sachdeva, therefore, faces a total maximum penalty of up to 120 years in prison and fines of up to $1.5 million, plus forfeiture of the items identified in the indictment and restitution.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and has been assigned to Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew L. Jacobs and Scott J. Campbell for prosecution.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The indictment alleges that Sachdeva used her position at Koss to fraudulently obtain more than $31 million from Koss, which she used to purchase personal items and pay for personal expenses. According to the indictment, Sachdeva authorized numerous wire transfers of funds from bank accounts maintained by Koss to pay for her American Express credit card bills. In addition, Sachdeva used money from Koss’s bank accounts to fund numerous cashier’s checks, which she also used to pay her personal expenses. Sachdeva used the money she fraudulently obtained from Koss to purchase personal items including women’s clothing, furs, purses, shoes, jewelry, automobiles, china, statues, and other household furnishings. Sachdeva also used the money to pay for hotels, airline tickets, and other travel expenses for herself and others, to pay for renovations and improvements to her home, and to compensate individuals providing personal services to her and her family.
According to the indictment, Sachdeva sought to conceal her fraud by directing other Koss employees to make numerous fraudulent entries in Koss’s books and records to make it appear that Sachdeva’s fraudulent transfers were legitimate business transactions. Sachdeva directed Koss employees to conceal her fraudulent transfers as well as the fraudulent entries in Koss’s books and records from Koss’s management and auditors.
Each of the charges against Sachdeva is based on a specific wire transfer of funds from Koss’s bank account to American Express to pay for Sachdeva’s credit card bills.
The indictment also seeks the forfeiture of property alleged to have been purchased with the proceeds of Sachdeva’s fraud should she be convicted in this matter. Among this property is her residence located in Mequon, Wisconsin, a 2007 Mercedes Benz, and clothing, jewelry, art objects, and household items seized from Sachdeva’s home and two storage units she maintained in Milwaukee. In addition, the indictment seeks the forfeiture of various items of clothing, jewelry, art objects, and other items currently in the possession of five merchants in the Milwaukee area, as well as a hand-carved door and a vacation ownership interest in a resort property.
According to United States Attorney James L. Santelle “this case is one of the largest embezzlement cases ever brought in this district, and demonstrates the ongoing commitment of this office and the FBI to investigate and prosecute white collar offenses.”
Each count of the indictment carries a maximum possible penalty of up to 20 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000. Sachdeva, therefore, faces a total maximum penalty of up to 120 years in prison and fines of up to $1.5 million, plus forfeiture of the items identified in the indictment and restitution.
This matter was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and has been assigned to Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew L. Jacobs and Scott J. Campbell for prosecution.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Serial Bank Robbery Suspect Identifed
The FBI, the Philadelphia Police Department, and the Upper Dublin (Pennsylvania) Police Department are seeking the public's assistance in locating William J. Gill, 32 years of age, 5’9” tall, last known to be living in the 5000 block of Homestead Street in Philadelphia. Gill was charged today by the Upper Dublin Police Department in Montgomery County, Pennsylvania with the robbery of the PNC Bank branch located at 1015 South Bethlehem Pike in Ambler, Pennsylvania this morning, and he is also believed to be the subject responsible for the attempted robbery of the Wachovia Bank branch located at 2 West Girard Avenue, and the robbery of the TD Bank branch located at 3930 Woodhaven Boulevard, both yesterday.
At approximately 8:45 a.m. today, the subject, who was later identified as Gill, entered the PNC Bank branch, made a threatening verbal demand to a teller indicating that he was armed with a gun, then fled the bank after obtaining an undisclosed amount of cash. The subject was wearing a black zip-up jacket, and was last seen fleeing the area of the bank in a white or light-colored mini-van. As visible in the security camera images from the bank, the subject’s left hand is stained red, possibly from a dye-pack taken in yesterday’s robbery.
Two photographs from the robbery of the PNC Bank and two photographs of Gill are below. Gill is considered armed and dangerous, and anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 215-418-4000, the Philadelphia Police Department, or the Upper Dublin Police Department. There may be a reward for information leading to the location and apprehension of this subject. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
Two Charged in Murder-for-Hire Plot
January 20, 2010 - The United States Attorney's Office announced that two DuPage County, Illinois men were arrested last week after being charged by complaint in a murder-for-hire plot targeting an Assistant United States Attorney and a Drug Enforcement Administration agent assigned to Chicago.
Frank Caira, 39, of Downers Grove, Illinois, and Jack Mann, 41, of Naperville, Illinois, were charged with solicitation to commit a crime of violence, specifically attempting assault or intimidation of a federal officer, and attempting to kill a law enforcement official of the United States.
Both men appeared before Magistrate Judge Nan R. Nolan in Chicago Saturday afternoon, January 16, 2010. Mann has subsequently appeared in court today and remains detained. Caira is scheduled to appear for a detention hearing before Magistrate Judge Nolan on Thursday, January 21, 2010.
This case was investigated jointly by the Chicago Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crimes Task Force and the United States Marshal’s Service Northern Illinois Threat Assessment Task Force.
Frank Caira, 39, of Downers Grove, Illinois, and Jack Mann, 41, of Naperville, Illinois, were charged with solicitation to commit a crime of violence, specifically attempting assault or intimidation of a federal officer, and attempting to kill a law enforcement official of the United States.
Both men appeared before Magistrate Judge Nan R. Nolan in Chicago Saturday afternoon, January 16, 2010. Mann has subsequently appeared in court today and remains detained. Caira is scheduled to appear for a detention hearing before Magistrate Judge Nolan on Thursday, January 21, 2010.
This case was investigated jointly by the Chicago Federal Bureau of Investigation Violent Crimes Task Force and the United States Marshal’s Service Northern Illinois Threat Assessment Task Force.
Former Bookkeeper Sentenced to 17 Months in Jail for Embezzling from Virginia Beach Law Firm
January 20, 2010 - Norma Blackwell, age 47, of Sebring, FL, was sentenced today in Norfolk federal court to 17 months in prison for embezzling $153,203.71 from a Virginia Beach law firm. Neil H. MacBride, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, made the announcement after Blackwell was sentenced by Senior United States District Judge Robert G. Doumar. Judge Doumar also ordered Blackwell to pay $153,203.71 in restitution and to serve three years of supervised release following her imprisonment. Blackwell previously pled guilty on September 29, 2009 to committing mail fraud.
According to court documents, for approximately six years Blackwell worked as a bookkeeper at the Virginia Beach law firm of Shuttleworth, Ruloff, Swain, Haddad & Morecock, P.C. Beginning in April 2004 and continuing through July 2007, Blackwell defrauded and stole from the firm. Blackwell engaged in this fraud, in significant part, by manipulating the signing and issuance of numerous firm checks. Blackwell then mailed such checks to her family’s creditors. In addition to making payments for cruises and trips to Disney World, Blackwell used the law firm’s funds to make payments to Capital One, Card Services, Direct Merchant Bank, Exchange Credit, Home Depot, HSBC Bank, J.C. Penney’s, Juniper Bank, and Target. Blackwell also wire transferred and deposited stolen funds into a family member’s account at a local credit union. To hide her fraud, Blackwell then made false entries in the firm’s books and records. As a result of this misconduct, the law firm suffered losses of approximately $153,203.71.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Robert Krask prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
According to court documents, for approximately six years Blackwell worked as a bookkeeper at the Virginia Beach law firm of Shuttleworth, Ruloff, Swain, Haddad & Morecock, P.C. Beginning in April 2004 and continuing through July 2007, Blackwell defrauded and stole from the firm. Blackwell engaged in this fraud, in significant part, by manipulating the signing and issuance of numerous firm checks. Blackwell then mailed such checks to her family’s creditors. In addition to making payments for cruises and trips to Disney World, Blackwell used the law firm’s funds to make payments to Capital One, Card Services, Direct Merchant Bank, Exchange Credit, Home Depot, HSBC Bank, J.C. Penney’s, Juniper Bank, and Target. Blackwell also wire transferred and deposited stolen funds into a family member’s account at a local credit union. To hide her fraud, Blackwell then made false entries in the firm’s books and records. As a result of this misconduct, the law firm suffered losses of approximately $153,203.71.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorney Robert Krask prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
FBI Seeks Female Felon Photographed by Bank
January 20, 2010 - The Houston FBI Bank Robbery Task Force is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying a female felon who was photographed during a robbery at the Wells Fargo Bank located inside the Randall’s Grocery Store, address 11041 Westheimer in Houston, Texas earlier today.
At about 11:45 a.m., the woman entered the Randall’s store and approached the bank located inside the store. She waited her turn in the teller line, and when called to the teller, she placed a threatening note on the counter which announced she was committing a robbery. The woman was given some cash which she placed inside her large, cream colored purse. No one was hurt during the robbery. No weapon was observed during the robbery. She was last seen exiting the Randall’s store.
The woman is described as a white female, 48-55 years old, 5’4”-5’ tall, with a slender build and a light complexion. She wore glasses, a grey sweatshirt, and jeans and carried a large cream colored purse. Witnesses advised she may have had crooked teeth.
Crime Stoppers is offering up to $5,000 for information leading to the charging and arrest of this robber, 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.
CEO of Seafood Importer Pleads Guilty to Importing and Selling Falsely Labeled Fish from Vietnam Attempts to Evade $60 Million in Federal Tariffs
January 20, 2010 - The chief executive officer of Sterling Seafood Corporation located in Cresskill, N.J., pleaded guilty today to importing falsely labeled fish from Vietnam and evading over $60 million in federal tariffs, as well as selling over $500,000 in similarly misbranded fish purchased from another importer in the United States, the Justice Department announced.
Thomas George, 61, of Old Tappan, N.J., made his first appearance in federal court and pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Patty Shwartz for the District of New Jersey to a two-count information charging him with one count of importing falsely labeled goods into the United States and one of selling falsely labeled fish in the United States with the intent to defraud. Sentencing is scheduled for April 28, 2010, before U.S. District Judge Faith S. Hochberg.
"This case is an example of effective coordination among federal law enforcement agencies to investigate illegal activity that hurts economic markets, defrauds consumers and masks the depletion of fishery resources by substituting a lower value farmed species for one being depleted in the wild," said Ignacia S. Moreno, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.
"Today’s plea reflects this office’s commitment to enforcing customs duties and prosecuting consumer fraud," said Paul J. Fishman, U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey. "This office will continue to protect fair competition in the marketplace and consumers’ right to know what they are purchasing."
"ICE will use its global law enforcement experience, expertise and proficiency to investigate, disrupt and dismantle organizations that engage in grand scale consumer fraud, "said Peter T. Edge, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Office of Investigations in Newark. "While the monetary loss to the U.S. government in this case was significant, American consumers have a right to be protected from improperly labeled seafood."
An investigation by special agents with ICE revealed that from January 2003 to June 2006, George maintained a business relationship through Sterling Seafood with a seafood distribution company located in Vietnam. As part of that business relationship, Sterling Seafood regularly purchased a type of fish, specifically Pagasius hypophthalmus, sometimes referred to as Vietnamese catfish. Sterling Seafood would then resell the product in the United States.
In the interest of fairly regulating commerce in the United States, the U.S. Department of Commerce establishes antidumping duties or tariffs on certain imported products. In January 2003, an anti-dumping duty or tariff was placed on all imports of Vietnamese catfish into the United States because the Vietnamese catfish was being marketed at a significantly lower price than was market rate at the time. That initial anti-dumping order imposed a duty of up to 63.88 percent on fish subject to the order which was adjusted at various later dates based on market conditions.
At his plea hearing, George admitted that from 2004 to 2006, he agreed with the Vietnamese distribution company to engage in a scheme to falsely identify and declare the purchase and importation of the Vietnamese catfish in order to evade the applicable anti-dumping duties. George stated he specifically instructed the Vietnamese company to fraudulently identify the Vietnamese catfish as "grouper" on commercial contracts, purchase orders, and other documents because grouper fish was not subject to any anti-dumping duties. George further admitted that, based upon these false statements and fraudulent documents, he, through Sterling Seafood, avoided over $60 million in anti-dumping duties.
Additionally, George admitted that from 2004 to 2005 he purchased over $500,000 of similarly misbranded fish that was imported by a Virginia corporation from Vietnam and then sold that misbranded fish throughout the United States.
The charge of importing of falsely labeled goods into the United States carries a maximum statutory sentence of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the monetary gain derived from the offense. The second count, which charges selling misbranded fish in the United States, carries a maximum statutory sentence of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the monetary gain derived from the offense.
In addition, George has agreed to make a $50,000 community service payment to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to be expressly designated for research into the identification of fish and other marine organisms.
The case was investigated by special agents with ICE, NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s office for the District of New Jersey and the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section in Washington, D.C.
Thomas George, 61, of Old Tappan, N.J., made his first appearance in federal court and pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Patty Shwartz for the District of New Jersey to a two-count information charging him with one count of importing falsely labeled goods into the United States and one of selling falsely labeled fish in the United States with the intent to defraud. Sentencing is scheduled for April 28, 2010, before U.S. District Judge Faith S. Hochberg.
"This case is an example of effective coordination among federal law enforcement agencies to investigate illegal activity that hurts economic markets, defrauds consumers and masks the depletion of fishery resources by substituting a lower value farmed species for one being depleted in the wild," said Ignacia S. Moreno, Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department’s Environment and Natural Resources Division.
"Today’s plea reflects this office’s commitment to enforcing customs duties and prosecuting consumer fraud," said Paul J. Fishman, U.S. Attorney for the District of New Jersey. "This office will continue to protect fair competition in the marketplace and consumers’ right to know what they are purchasing."
"ICE will use its global law enforcement experience, expertise and proficiency to investigate, disrupt and dismantle organizations that engage in grand scale consumer fraud, "said Peter T. Edge, Special Agent in Charge of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Office of Investigations in Newark. "While the monetary loss to the U.S. government in this case was significant, American consumers have a right to be protected from improperly labeled seafood."
An investigation by special agents with ICE revealed that from January 2003 to June 2006, George maintained a business relationship through Sterling Seafood with a seafood distribution company located in Vietnam. As part of that business relationship, Sterling Seafood regularly purchased a type of fish, specifically Pagasius hypophthalmus, sometimes referred to as Vietnamese catfish. Sterling Seafood would then resell the product in the United States.
In the interest of fairly regulating commerce in the United States, the U.S. Department of Commerce establishes antidumping duties or tariffs on certain imported products. In January 2003, an anti-dumping duty or tariff was placed on all imports of Vietnamese catfish into the United States because the Vietnamese catfish was being marketed at a significantly lower price than was market rate at the time. That initial anti-dumping order imposed a duty of up to 63.88 percent on fish subject to the order which was adjusted at various later dates based on market conditions.
At his plea hearing, George admitted that from 2004 to 2006, he agreed with the Vietnamese distribution company to engage in a scheme to falsely identify and declare the purchase and importation of the Vietnamese catfish in order to evade the applicable anti-dumping duties. George stated he specifically instructed the Vietnamese company to fraudulently identify the Vietnamese catfish as "grouper" on commercial contracts, purchase orders, and other documents because grouper fish was not subject to any anti-dumping duties. George further admitted that, based upon these false statements and fraudulent documents, he, through Sterling Seafood, avoided over $60 million in anti-dumping duties.
Additionally, George admitted that from 2004 to 2005 he purchased over $500,000 of similarly misbranded fish that was imported by a Virginia corporation from Vietnam and then sold that misbranded fish throughout the United States.
The charge of importing of falsely labeled goods into the United States carries a maximum statutory sentence of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the monetary gain derived from the offense. The second count, which charges selling misbranded fish in the United States, carries a maximum statutory sentence of three years in prison and a $250,000 fine, or twice the monetary gain derived from the offense.
In addition, George has agreed to make a $50,000 community service payment to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to be expressly designated for research into the identification of fish and other marine organisms.
The case was investigated by special agents with ICE, NOAA Fisheries Office of Law Enforcement, FDA Office of Criminal Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s office for the District of New Jersey and the Justice Department’s Environmental Crimes Section in Washington, D.C.
Bossier City Doctor and Two Others Sentenced for Prescription Fraud Scheme
January 20, 2010 - Dr. Tandy McElwee, Jr., 62, of Natchitoches, La., formerly of Bossier City, La., was sentenced today by United States District Judge S. Maurice Hicks, Jr., to five years in prison for his role in a wide-ranging scheme to obtain controlled substances by fraud, Acting United States Attorney William J. Flanagan announced. McElwee also received a $550,000.00 fine, was ordered to serve three years of supervised release at the conclusion of his prison sentence, and was ordered to forfeit his medical license through the term of supervised release. McElwee was ordered taken into custody by the U.S. Marshals immediately after sentencing.
Tandy McElwee, his wife Ava Cates McElwee, and Catherine Cockrell were convicted at trial of conspiracy to obtain hydrocodone, a Schedule III controlled substance, by fraud over a three-and-a-half-year period from January 2004 through August 2007, by submitting improper prescriptions to pharmacies in the Shreveport-Bossier area in one another’s names as well as the names of family members and fictitious names. One prescription was written for an individual named Brandi McElwee, who in fact is one of the McElwee’s dogs.
In addition to the conspiracy, Tandy McElwee was sentenced on 19 counts of obtaining or acquiring a controlled substance by fraud, nine counts of possession of hydrocodone with intent to distribute, one count of conspiracy to possess hydrocodone with intent to distribute, one count of providing false information in records of dispensed controlled substances, and one count of health care fraud related to fraudulently billing Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana.
Catherine Cockrell, who was convicted of an additional six counts of obtaining or acquiring hydrocodone by fraud, was sentenced today to three years' supervised probation, including 90 days of home confinement, a $5,000.00 fine, and $700.00 to the crime victim fund.
Kristina Randall, 31, of Shreveport, La., pleaded guilty to obtaining a controlled substance by fraud and was sentenced today to two years probation.
Wendy Chriss, 33, of Stonewall, La., was sentenced last week to 21 months' imprisonment and three years of supervised release following her guilty plea to conspiracy to possess hydrocodone with intent to distribute. Chriss was a medical assistant in the office of Tandy W. McElwee, Jr.
Susan Hotard, 54, of Benton, La.; Carla Huff, 37, of Keithville, La.; and Sandra Brannon, 50, of Baton Rouge, La., were each sentenced last week to three years of supervised probation and ordered to pay a $1,000.00 fine. All three pled guilty to one count of obtaining hydrocodone by fraud and testified at trial about the scheme.
Ava McElwee, wife and nurse practitioner employed at Dr. McElwee’s office, will be sentenced on January 26, 2010 at 2:30 p.m. on one count of conspiracy to obtain hydrocodone by fraud and one count of obtaining or acquiring hydrocodone by fraud.
Acting U.S. Attorney William J. Flanagan stated: “Dr. McElwee, trained in the healing arts, was unfortunately reduced to dispensing illegal drugs under cover of a professional practice, violating the public trust and bringing harm to the community. Reducing the supply of illegal drugs, regardless of the source, remains a major law enforcement priority.”
The case was investigated by the Shreveport Offices of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Allison D. Bushnell and C. Mignonne Griffing.
Tandy McElwee, his wife Ava Cates McElwee, and Catherine Cockrell were convicted at trial of conspiracy to obtain hydrocodone, a Schedule III controlled substance, by fraud over a three-and-a-half-year period from January 2004 through August 2007, by submitting improper prescriptions to pharmacies in the Shreveport-Bossier area in one another’s names as well as the names of family members and fictitious names. One prescription was written for an individual named Brandi McElwee, who in fact is one of the McElwee’s dogs.
In addition to the conspiracy, Tandy McElwee was sentenced on 19 counts of obtaining or acquiring a controlled substance by fraud, nine counts of possession of hydrocodone with intent to distribute, one count of conspiracy to possess hydrocodone with intent to distribute, one count of providing false information in records of dispensed controlled substances, and one count of health care fraud related to fraudulently billing Blue Cross Blue Shield of Louisiana.
Catherine Cockrell, who was convicted of an additional six counts of obtaining or acquiring hydrocodone by fraud, was sentenced today to three years' supervised probation, including 90 days of home confinement, a $5,000.00 fine, and $700.00 to the crime victim fund.
Kristina Randall, 31, of Shreveport, La., pleaded guilty to obtaining a controlled substance by fraud and was sentenced today to two years probation.
Wendy Chriss, 33, of Stonewall, La., was sentenced last week to 21 months' imprisonment and three years of supervised release following her guilty plea to conspiracy to possess hydrocodone with intent to distribute. Chriss was a medical assistant in the office of Tandy W. McElwee, Jr.
Susan Hotard, 54, of Benton, La.; Carla Huff, 37, of Keithville, La.; and Sandra Brannon, 50, of Baton Rouge, La., were each sentenced last week to three years of supervised probation and ordered to pay a $1,000.00 fine. All three pled guilty to one count of obtaining hydrocodone by fraud and testified at trial about the scheme.
Ava McElwee, wife and nurse practitioner employed at Dr. McElwee’s office, will be sentenced on January 26, 2010 at 2:30 p.m. on one count of conspiracy to obtain hydrocodone by fraud and one count of obtaining or acquiring hydrocodone by fraud.
Acting U.S. Attorney William J. Flanagan stated: “Dr. McElwee, trained in the healing arts, was unfortunately reduced to dispensing illegal drugs under cover of a professional practice, violating the public trust and bringing harm to the community. Reducing the supply of illegal drugs, regardless of the source, remains a major law enforcement priority.”
The case was investigated by the Shreveport Offices of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Allison D. Bushnell and C. Mignonne Griffing.
National Dental Management Company Pays $24 Million to Resolve Fraud Allegations
Medically Unnecessary Dental Services Allegedly Performed on Children
January 20, 2010 - WASHINGTON - The United States today announced that it has settled False Claims Act allegations against FORBA Holdings LLC, a dental management company that provides business management and administrative services to 69 clinics nationwide known as "Small Smiles Centers." Under the agreement, FORBA will pay the United States and participating states $24 million, plus interest, to resolve allegations that it caused bills to be submitted to state Medicaid programs for medically unnecessary dental services performed on children insured by Medicaid, which is funded jointly by the federal and state governments. FORBA has further agreed to put in place various remedial measures designed to prevent similar unlawful conduct from occurring in the future. The government’s investigation of individual dentists is ongoing, and FORBA is cooperating with that investigation by providing information about dentists who may have violated professional standards.
The United States alleged that FORBA was liable for causing the submission of claims for reimbursement for a wide range of dental services provided to low-income children that were either medically unnecessary or performed in a manner that failed to meet professionally-recognized standards of care. These services included performing pulpotomies (baby root canals), placing crowns, administering anesthesia (including nitrous oxide), performing extractions, and providing fillings and/or sealants.
"We have zero tolerance for those who break the law to exploit needy children," said Tony West, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division of the Department of Justice. "Illegal conduct like this endangers a child’s well-being, distorts the judgments of health care professionals, and puts corporate profits ahead of patient safety."
Assistant Attorney General West praised the collaborative efforts of the federal and state agencies that made this result possible. The Justice Department’s Civil Division and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Maryland, the Western District of Virginia, the District of South Carolina, and the District of Colorado handled these cases. The Civil Division led the nationwide investigation, which was conducted by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units.
To resolve the allegations against it, FORBA will pay $24 million, plus interest. The federal share of the civil settlement is $14,285,645, and the states’ Medicaid share is $9,714,355.25. In addition, as part of the settlement, FORBA has agreed to enter into an expansive five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services. The agreement provides for procedures and reviews to be put in place to avoid and promptly detect conduct similar to that which gave rise to this matter. Specifically, FORBA must engage external reviewers to monitor its quality of care and reimbursement processes. In addition, the chief dental officer must develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure that the Small Smiles clinics provide services consistent with professionally recognized standards of care. FORBA has also agreed to cooperate in the government’s continuing investigation of individual dentists.
"We will not tolerate Medicaid providers who prey on vulnerable children and seek unjust enrichment at taxpayers’ expense," said Daniel R. Levinson, Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. "This settlement reaffirms our commitment to protect the health and well-being of Medicaid beneficiaries and to ensure the integrity of this essential health care program."
"Health care providers must be held accountable when they mistreat patients and overcharge insurers," said Rod J. Rosenstein, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland. "We are committed to using our affirmative civil enforcement authority to protect patients from inadequate care and protect governmental health coverage programs from fraudulent charges."
The government’s investigation was initiated by three lawsuits filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private citizens to sue on behalf of the United States and share in any recovery. These actions are pending in the U.S. District Courts for the District of Maryland, the Western District of Virginia, and the District of South Carolina. As part of today’s resolution, the three whistleblowers will receive payments totaling more than $2.4 million from the federal share of the settlement.
"In this case, FORBA put greed and profits before the well-being of children," said Timothy J. Heaphy, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia. "It endangered the health and safety of innocent children and defrauded the taxpayer of millions of dollars. Today’s settlement addresses these egregious acts and sends a clear message that Medicaid fraud will be expeditiously addressed by this Department."
This settlement with FORBA is part of the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in that effort is the False Claims Act, which the Department of Justice has used to recover approximately $2.2 billion since January 2009 in cases involving fraud against federal health care programs. The Justice Department’s total recoveries in False Claims Act cases since January 2009 have topped $3 billion.
January 20, 2010 - WASHINGTON - The United States today announced that it has settled False Claims Act allegations against FORBA Holdings LLC, a dental management company that provides business management and administrative services to 69 clinics nationwide known as "Small Smiles Centers." Under the agreement, FORBA will pay the United States and participating states $24 million, plus interest, to resolve allegations that it caused bills to be submitted to state Medicaid programs for medically unnecessary dental services performed on children insured by Medicaid, which is funded jointly by the federal and state governments. FORBA has further agreed to put in place various remedial measures designed to prevent similar unlawful conduct from occurring in the future. The government’s investigation of individual dentists is ongoing, and FORBA is cooperating with that investigation by providing information about dentists who may have violated professional standards.
The United States alleged that FORBA was liable for causing the submission of claims for reimbursement for a wide range of dental services provided to low-income children that were either medically unnecessary or performed in a manner that failed to meet professionally-recognized standards of care. These services included performing pulpotomies (baby root canals), placing crowns, administering anesthesia (including nitrous oxide), performing extractions, and providing fillings and/or sealants.
"We have zero tolerance for those who break the law to exploit needy children," said Tony West, Assistant Attorney General for the Civil Division of the Department of Justice. "Illegal conduct like this endangers a child’s well-being, distorts the judgments of health care professionals, and puts corporate profits ahead of patient safety."
Assistant Attorney General West praised the collaborative efforts of the federal and state agencies that made this result possible. The Justice Department’s Civil Division and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Maryland, the Western District of Virginia, the District of South Carolina, and the District of Colorado handled these cases. The Civil Division led the nationwide investigation, which was conducted by the Office of Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the National Association of Medicaid Fraud Control Units.
To resolve the allegations against it, FORBA will pay $24 million, plus interest. The federal share of the civil settlement is $14,285,645, and the states’ Medicaid share is $9,714,355.25. In addition, as part of the settlement, FORBA has agreed to enter into an expansive five-year Corporate Integrity Agreement with the Office of Inspector General of the Department of Health and Human Services. The agreement provides for procedures and reviews to be put in place to avoid and promptly detect conduct similar to that which gave rise to this matter. Specifically, FORBA must engage external reviewers to monitor its quality of care and reimbursement processes. In addition, the chief dental officer must develop and implement policies and procedures to ensure that the Small Smiles clinics provide services consistent with professionally recognized standards of care. FORBA has also agreed to cooperate in the government’s continuing investigation of individual dentists.
"We will not tolerate Medicaid providers who prey on vulnerable children and seek unjust enrichment at taxpayers’ expense," said Daniel R. Levinson, Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. "This settlement reaffirms our commitment to protect the health and well-being of Medicaid beneficiaries and to ensure the integrity of this essential health care program."
"Health care providers must be held accountable when they mistreat patients and overcharge insurers," said Rod J. Rosenstein, U.S. Attorney for the District of Maryland. "We are committed to using our affirmative civil enforcement authority to protect patients from inadequate care and protect governmental health coverage programs from fraudulent charges."
The government’s investigation was initiated by three lawsuits filed under the qui tam, or whistleblower, provisions of the False Claims Act, which permit private citizens to sue on behalf of the United States and share in any recovery. These actions are pending in the U.S. District Courts for the District of Maryland, the Western District of Virginia, and the District of South Carolina. As part of today’s resolution, the three whistleblowers will receive payments totaling more than $2.4 million from the federal share of the settlement.
"In this case, FORBA put greed and profits before the well-being of children," said Timothy J. Heaphy, U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Virginia. "It endangered the health and safety of innocent children and defrauded the taxpayer of millions of dollars. Today’s settlement addresses these egregious acts and sends a clear message that Medicaid fraud will be expeditiously addressed by this Department."
This settlement with FORBA is part of the government’s emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in that effort is the False Claims Act, which the Department of Justice has used to recover approximately $2.2 billion since January 2009 in cases involving fraud against federal health care programs. The Justice Department’s total recoveries in False Claims Act cases since January 2009 have topped $3 billion.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Child Exploitation Tracking System (ICE-CETS) January 19, 2010, (PDF, 20 pages - 236 KB) The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Child Exploitation Tracking System (ICE-CETS) is a centralized information repository that assists law enforcement in conducting child exploitation investigations. The ICE-CETS database allows information about related investigations to be shared and tied together to reduce redundant investigative work. ICE has conducted this Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) because personal identifiable information (PII) is maintained in ICE-CETS
January 19, 2010, (PDF, 20 pages - 236 KB) The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Child Exploitation Tracking System (ICE-CETS) is a centralized information repository that assists law enforcement in conducting child exploitation investigations. The ICE-CETS database allows information about related investigations to be shared and tied together to reduce redundant investigative work. ICE has conducted this Privacy Impact Assessment (PIA) because personal identifiable information (PII) is maintained in ICE-CETS.
More Information
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/privacy/privacy_pia_ice_cets.pdf
More Information
http://www.dhs.gov/xlibrary/assets/privacy/privacy_pia_ice_cets.pdf
Mystery/Secret Shopper Schemes
Intelligence Note
Prepared by the
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
January 20, 2010
The IC3 has been alerted to an increase in employment schemes pertaining to mystery/secret shopper positions. Many retail and service corporations hire evaluators to perform secret or random checks on themselves or their competitors, and fraudsters are capitalizing on this employment opportunity.
Victims have reported to the IC3 they were contacted via e-mail and U.S. mail to apply to be a mystery shopper. Applicants are asked to send a resume and are purportedly subject to an extensive background check before being accepted as a mystery shopper. The employees are sent a check with instructions to shop at a specified retailer for a specific length of time and spend a specific amount on merchandise from the store. The employees receive instructions to take note of the store's environment, color, payment procedures, gift items, and shopping/carrier bags and report back to the employer. The second evaluation is the ease and accuracy of wiring money from the retail location. The money to be wired is also included in the check sent to the employee. The remaining balance is the employee's payment for the completion of the assignment. After merchandise is purchased and money is wired, the employees are advised by the bank the check cashed was counterfeit, and they are responsible for the money lost in addition to bank fees incurred.
In other versions of the scheme, applicants are requested to provide bank account information to have money directly deposited into their accounts. The fraudster then has acquired access to these victims' accounts and can withdraw money, which makes the applicant a victim of identity theft.
Once the pop-up appears it cannot be easily closed by clicking "close" or the "X" button. If the user clicks on the pop-up to purchase the software, a form is provided that collects payment information and the user is charged for the bogus product. In some instances, whether the user clicks on the pop-up or not, the scareware can install malicious code onto the computer. By running your computer with an account that has rights to install software, this issue is more likely to occur.
Tips
Here are some tips you can use to avoid becoming a victim of employment schemes associated with mystery/secret shopping:
• Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) e-mail.
• Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.
• Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. Virus scan all attachments, if possible.
• Avoid filling out forms contained in e-mail messages that ask for personal information.
• Always compare the link in the e-mail to the link you are actually directed to and determine if they match and will lead you to a legitimate site.
• There are legitimate mystery/secret shopper programs available. Research the legitimacy on companies hiring mystery shoppers. Legitimate companies will not charge an application fee and will accept applications on-line.
• No legitimate mystery/secret shopper program will send payment in advance and ask the employee to send a portion of it back.
Individuals who believe they have information pertaining to mystery/secret shopper schemes are encouraged to file a complaint at http://www.ic3.gov/.
Prepared by the
Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3)
January 20, 2010
The IC3 has been alerted to an increase in employment schemes pertaining to mystery/secret shopper positions. Many retail and service corporations hire evaluators to perform secret or random checks on themselves or their competitors, and fraudsters are capitalizing on this employment opportunity.
Victims have reported to the IC3 they were contacted via e-mail and U.S. mail to apply to be a mystery shopper. Applicants are asked to send a resume and are purportedly subject to an extensive background check before being accepted as a mystery shopper. The employees are sent a check with instructions to shop at a specified retailer for a specific length of time and spend a specific amount on merchandise from the store. The employees receive instructions to take note of the store's environment, color, payment procedures, gift items, and shopping/carrier bags and report back to the employer. The second evaluation is the ease and accuracy of wiring money from the retail location. The money to be wired is also included in the check sent to the employee. The remaining balance is the employee's payment for the completion of the assignment. After merchandise is purchased and money is wired, the employees are advised by the bank the check cashed was counterfeit, and they are responsible for the money lost in addition to bank fees incurred.
In other versions of the scheme, applicants are requested to provide bank account information to have money directly deposited into their accounts. The fraudster then has acquired access to these victims' accounts and can withdraw money, which makes the applicant a victim of identity theft.
Once the pop-up appears it cannot be easily closed by clicking "close" or the "X" button. If the user clicks on the pop-up to purchase the software, a form is provided that collects payment information and the user is charged for the bogus product. In some instances, whether the user clicks on the pop-up or not, the scareware can install malicious code onto the computer. By running your computer with an account that has rights to install software, this issue is more likely to occur.
Tips
Here are some tips you can use to avoid becoming a victim of employment schemes associated with mystery/secret shopping:
• Do not respond to unsolicited (spam) e-mail.
• Do not click on links contained within an unsolicited e-mail.
• Be cautious of e-mail claiming to contain pictures in attached files, as the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders. Virus scan all attachments, if possible.
• Avoid filling out forms contained in e-mail messages that ask for personal information.
• Always compare the link in the e-mail to the link you are actually directed to and determine if they match and will lead you to a legitimate site.
• There are legitimate mystery/secret shopper programs available. Research the legitimacy on companies hiring mystery shoppers. Legitimate companies will not charge an application fee and will accept applications on-line.
• No legitimate mystery/secret shopper program will send payment in advance and ask the employee to send a portion of it back.
Individuals who believe they have information pertaining to mystery/secret shopper schemes are encouraged to file a complaint at http://www.ic3.gov/.
Brookline Man Sentenced to Five Years for Transportation of Child Pornography
January 20, 2010 - A former Brookline resident was sentenced today in federal court to five years in prison for transportation and possession of child pornography.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and Warren T. Bamford, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Boston Field Division, announced today that ROBERT GAMERE, age 71, formerly of Brookline, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William G. Young to 60 months in prison to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release based on his conviction for transportation and possession of child pornography.
At the defendant’s guilty plea on September 8, 2009, the prosecutor told the Court that had the case proceeded to trial the Government’s evidence would have shown that on April 5, 2007 and April 11, 2007, GAMERE, using his AOL screen name GreatGamere, sent videos containing child pornography via the internet to an AOL subscriber in another state. In addition, the prosecutor told the Court that agents searched GAMERE's Brookline residence on October 30, 2007 and recovered a computer containing child pornography.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Richardson in Ortiz's Major Crimes Unit.
United States Attorney Carmen M. Ortiz and Warren T. Bamford, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation - Boston Field Division, announced today that ROBERT GAMERE, age 71, formerly of Brookline, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William G. Young to 60 months in prison to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release based on his conviction for transportation and possession of child pornography.
At the defendant’s guilty plea on September 8, 2009, the prosecutor told the Court that had the case proceeded to trial the Government’s evidence would have shown that on April 5, 2007 and April 11, 2007, GAMERE, using his AOL screen name GreatGamere, sent videos containing child pornography via the internet to an AOL subscriber in another state. In addition, the prosecutor told the Court that agents searched GAMERE's Brookline residence on October 30, 2007 and recovered a computer containing child pornography.
The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Richardson in Ortiz's Major Crimes Unit.
Tuesday, January 19, 2010
Introduction to Criminal Justice
According to the description of Introduction to Criminal Justice, “As fast-paced and vital as criminal justice itself, the Twelfth Edition of Siegel's INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE is an authoritative, comprehensive, solidly researched bestseller that sparks students' interest with its cutting-edge topics and gripping examples—all presented with the author's trademark of exceptional balance and objectivity. With its new "Careers in Criminal Justice" feature in every chapter, new interactive online tools, provocative illustrations and examples, and a lively, to-the-point writing style perfect for today's students, this book guides readers through the intricate workings of the police, courts, and correctional systems; the concepts and processes of justice; and key policy issues. More student-friendly than ever, the Twelfth Edition of INTRODUCTION TO CRIMINAL JUSTICE will engage students with its dynamic new visual design; even more real-world applications; updated coverage of current topics such as white-collar crime, terrorism, and cyber-crime; and new integrated multimedia resources for teaching and learning.”
One reader of Introduction to Criminal Justice said, “Siegel brings the world of CJ to people like on one else can. he is excellent at taking what would be incredibly complicated concepts and making them easy for anyone to understand yet maintain a complete and rich text that has everything an undergrad CJ class would need.”
One reader of Introduction to Criminal Justice said, “Siegel brings the world of CJ to people like on one else can. he is excellent at taking what would be incredibly complicated concepts and making them easy for anyone to understand yet maintain a complete and rich text that has everything an undergrad CJ class would need.”
Border Patrol Agents Seize 1,000 Pounds of Marijuana, Furthers Impressive Seizure Record
January 19, 2010 - Tucson, Ariz. – U.S. Border Patrol agents assigned to Sonoita Station seized 1,060 pounds of marijuana Monday afternoon near a cemetery. A canine team assisted with discovering the 21 bundles of marijuana hidden among some brush. The value of the marijuana is approximately $848,000.
Border Patrol agents have been extremely effective at stopping illegal drugs at the border and preventing them from reaching our communities. In the past four days, Tucson Sector agents seized nearly 16,000 pounds, or eight tons, of marijuana. The estimated value of the marijuana is $12.8 million.
Checkpoints and canine units have been critical to this weekend’s drug interdiction success. The continued success of the Border Patrol’s “Defense in Depth” Strategy allows agents conducting checkpoint operations to disrupt the pathways of illegal drugs while canine units increase effectiveness by swiftly detecting contraband.
In the first three months of this fiscal year (October through December), agents in the Tucson Sector seized more than 270,000 pounds of marijuana. The estimated value of the contraband is greater than $122 million. During the same time frame last year the Tucson Sector had seized over 230,000 pounds of marijuana.
Border Patrol agents have been extremely effective at stopping illegal drugs at the border and preventing them from reaching our communities. In the past four days, Tucson Sector agents seized nearly 16,000 pounds, or eight tons, of marijuana. The estimated value of the marijuana is $12.8 million.
Checkpoints and canine units have been critical to this weekend’s drug interdiction success. The continued success of the Border Patrol’s “Defense in Depth” Strategy allows agents conducting checkpoint operations to disrupt the pathways of illegal drugs while canine units increase effectiveness by swiftly detecting contraband.
In the first three months of this fiscal year (October through December), agents in the Tucson Sector seized more than 270,000 pounds of marijuana. The estimated value of the contraband is greater than $122 million. During the same time frame last year the Tucson Sector had seized over 230,000 pounds of marijuana.
Border Patrol Seizes Nearly 200 Pounds of Marijuana Concealed Throughout Vehicle
January 19, 2010 - Niland, Calif. – On Sunday morning, El Centro Sector Border Patrol agents working the Highway 111 checkpoint seized nearly 200 pounds of marijuana valued at close to $160,000. At approximately 11 a.m., a red colored mini-van operated by a United States citizen approached the primary inspection area at the Highway 111 checkpoint which is operated by Indio Station agents. A Border Patrol canine team conducted an exterior non-intrusive inspection of the vehicle.
The canine team alerted to several areas of the vehicle which led agents to discover 90 vacuum sealed bags of marijuana concealed within the dashboard, behind false side wall panels, and within a false roof compartment. The driver, the vehicle and the marijuana were turned over to the Drug Enforcement Administration. Since the fiscal year began in on October 1, 2009, the El Centro Sector has seized more than 2,000 pounds of marijuana.
CBP Halts Deadly Illegal Immigration Attempt at Torrey Pines Beach
January 19, 2010 - San Diego - One person is dead, another is in critical condition, and 14 others are in custody following a failed attempt to illegally enter the United States by boat at a San Diego beach this morning.
At about 4:30 a.m., law enforcement authorities spotted a 30-foot panga in distress in the surf just off of Torrey Pines State Beach. A U.S. Customs and Border Protection helicopter on routine patrol in the area diverted when it spotted the boat, people in the water, and people scattering into the nearby brush, while the San Diego Police Department responded on land after hearing cries for help from the beach.
Federal, state, and local law enforcement authorities responded to the scene, including CBP’s Office of Air and Marine and Border Patrol, U.S. Coast Guard, San Diego Fire and Rescue, State Parks Service, San Diego Lifeguards, and the San Diego Sheriff’s Department, to help those in trouble, to search the nearby area for others from the boat, and to close the area to the public. Authorities estimate approximately 100 law enforcement officers assisted.
Responding personnel pulled several people from the water, and provided emergency medical assistance on the beach to two people. One remains in critical condition at a local hospital; the other died en route. An additional four people were transported to area hospitals this morning; three have been released at this time.
For several hours after the event, U.S. Border Patrol agents, a CBP helicopter crew, and several state and local law enforcement groups searched nearby Torrey Pines State Park for other passengers from the vessel. The search, which led to another ten people taken into custody by the U.S. Border Patrol, closed the park for the first half of the day.
All 16 of the persons discovered from the vessel are Mexican nationals entering the United States illegally.
An exact number of persons originally on the vessel is unknown; while authorities found 29 life jackets at the scene, many looked as though they were extras and had not been worn.
The U.S. Coast Guard continued search and rescue operations in the area throughout the day and night, and will continue searching into tomorrow.
CBP Marine Interdiction Agents took custody of the panga, a typical fiberglass Mexican fishing vessel. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement is investigating the incident for possible prosecutions. ICE agents would like to talk to anyone who witnessed this morning's fatal smuggling incident. Anyone with specific information is asked to call 1-866-347-2432 and leave their contact information; an ICE agent in San Diego will call and respond.
“This is the worst situation when you spot a suspicious boat on the water before dawn: the boat in distress, people in the water, and others from the vessel scattering rather than providing any assistance or calling for help,” said John Murphy, director of Air Operations for CBP in San Diego. “This attempt today turned deadly and is a timely wake-up call – you put your life in grave danger when you trust a smuggler to provide for your safety. The united effort today by all of the law enforcement officers involved saved lives.”
Unknown Bank Robber
The FBI is seeking the public's help in locating the following person who is being sought on suspicion of bank robbery. This unknown male is named the "Reckless Robber" due to his violent "take-over" style of robbery. As reported to the FBI, this subject enters a victim bank allegedly armed with a handgun and then issues a time limit for bank employees to comply with his demand for money. On several occasions, he has reportedly placed his handgun directly to the heads of bank employees to enforce their compliance.
The "Reckless Robber" was first identified in December 2008 after a bank robbery in Houston, Texas. After which, he allegedly robbed 18 banks in the Houston area. The suspect was then identified in Austin, Texas, in November 2009, after allegedly robbing a bank. It is believed his last known bank robbery occurred in San Antonio in January 2010.
Third Child Molester Sought by U.S. Marshals Returned to the U.S.
January 19, 2010 - Phoenix, AZ – Early this morning, a convicted child molester who left a men’s shelter in Mesa in August 2009 with three other sex offenders, was returned to the United States after surrendering to authorities in Mexico.
In August 2009, Randy Brown, age 24, along with Donald Temple, Matthew Ellsworth, and Manual Dominguez left the East Valley Men’s Shelter in Mesa where they were required to reside as a condition of their probation. This facility is a transitional living center comprised partially of offenders on probation. All four individuals were on lifetime Maricopa County probation after their convictions in separate offenses for molestation of a child. Their victims ranged in age from four to eleven years old.
Late last night, Brown surrendered to authorities in Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico and was taken into custody. He was then deported to the United States early this morning in Douglas, Ariz where he booked into the Cochise County Jail pending extradition to Maricopa County. U.S. Marshals in Phoenix and Tucson coordinated Brown’s surrender and return to the United States.
Last week, Temple and Ellsworth were located and taken into custody at a residence in Chihuahua, Mexico by state police based on information developed by the U.S. Marshals Service in Phoenix and deported to the United States. Dominguez is still at large.
United States Marshal David Gonzales added, “The United States Marshals Service is committed to locating fugitives who prey on children. By coordinating with our counterparts in Mexico, a convicted child molester is now in custody.” The U.S. Marshals Service is the nation’s oldest federal law enforcement agency. Annually, U.S. Marshals arrest more than 50 percent of all federal fugitives and serve more federal warrants than all other federal agencies combined. For more information on other USMS Top 15 fugitives and USMS Major Cases, go to www.usmarshals.gov.
In August 2009, Randy Brown, age 24, along with Donald Temple, Matthew Ellsworth, and Manual Dominguez left the East Valley Men’s Shelter in Mesa where they were required to reside as a condition of their probation. This facility is a transitional living center comprised partially of offenders on probation. All four individuals were on lifetime Maricopa County probation after their convictions in separate offenses for molestation of a child. Their victims ranged in age from four to eleven years old.
Late last night, Brown surrendered to authorities in Agua Prieta, Sonora, Mexico and was taken into custody. He was then deported to the United States early this morning in Douglas, Ariz where he booked into the Cochise County Jail pending extradition to Maricopa County. U.S. Marshals in Phoenix and Tucson coordinated Brown’s surrender and return to the United States.
Last week, Temple and Ellsworth were located and taken into custody at a residence in Chihuahua, Mexico by state police based on information developed by the U.S. Marshals Service in Phoenix and deported to the United States. Dominguez is still at large.
United States Marshal David Gonzales added, “The United States Marshals Service is committed to locating fugitives who prey on children. By coordinating with our counterparts in Mexico, a convicted child molester is now in custody.” The U.S. Marshals Service is the nation’s oldest federal law enforcement agency. Annually, U.S. Marshals arrest more than 50 percent of all federal fugitives and serve more federal warrants than all other federal agencies combined. For more information on other USMS Top 15 fugitives and USMS Major Cases, go to www.usmarshals.gov.
CBP Officers Seize Nearly $150,000 in Marijuana at Brownsville Port of Entry
January 15, 2010 - Brownsville, Texas – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Gateway International Bridge discovered $150,000 in marijuana hidden in the gas tank of a Chevrolet Astro van; one male U.S. citizen was arrested.
On Thursday, January 14, at the Gateway International Bridge, CBP officers working primary operations came in contact with a maroon 1996 Chevrolet Astro Van driven by a 20-year-old male U.S. citizen and resident of Brownsville, Texas.
A CBP officer referred the Chevrolet to secondary for an intensified examination. “Cheka” a narcotic detector dog, further alerted officers to the odor of narcotics emanating from the Astro van. CBP officers dismantled the gas tank and removed two man-made metal compartments from within the gas tank. The two large compartments contained a total of nearly 150 pounds of marijuana.
The marijuana from this seizure has an estimated street value of close to $150,000. CBP officers arrested the driver and turned him over to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement special agents who investigated the seizure. The driver may face federal drug charges.
“This load of drugs will not make it to its intended destination. CBP officers stopped another substantial amount of marijuana on the frontline,” said Michael Freeman, CBP port director, Brownsville. Freeman went on to say, “I congratulate our officers for a job well done with the interception of these dangerous narcotics.”
Chicago Journalist and Documentarian Honored by FBI
January 19, 2010 - Robert D. Grant, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Chicago office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) announced today that Bill Kurtis, Executive Producer and President of Chicago based Kurtis Productions, is the 2009 Chicago area recipient of the FBI Director’s Community Leadership Award (DCLA).
The DCLA is presented annually by FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III to a recipient in each of the FBI’s 56 domestic field offices. Established in 1990, the DCLA is designed to publicly recognize an individual or organization that has helped with crime prevention and educational programs within their community and which have furthered the efforts of law enforcement.
In selecting Mr. Kurtis as the 2009 recipient of this prestigious award, Director Mueller noted his many contributions over the years in both educating the public and assisting law enforcement. Said Director Mueller, “Shows produced by Kurtis Productions, such as American Greed and American Justice, have documented to the public many successful investigative efforts of law enforcement while Cold Case Files enlists the public’s help in resolving unsolved cases and locating wanted fugitives.”
In announcing this award, Mr. Grant noted the dedication and personal involvement exhibited by Mr. Kurtis to the Chicago FBI during the past several years. Mr. Grant added “Our office was honored to have Mr. Kurtis as the keynote speaker at both our inaugural Law Enforcement Memorial Service in May of 2007 and at our 100th Anniversary celebration in July of 2008. His eloquent remarks left attendees at both events with a greater appreciation of the sacrifice made daily by the men and women of law enforcement.”
In addition, Mr. Kurtis’ most recent series, Cold Case Minute, which airs locally on CBS 2 and profiles unsolved cases from the Chicago area, demonstrates his ongoing dedication to assisting law enforcement.
Mr. Kurtis follows Larry Wert, President, Central and Western Region, NBC Local Media, who was the 2008 DCLA recipient.
An awards luncheon honoring Mr. Kurtis is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. today at Harry Caray’s Restaurant, 33 West Kinzie in Chicago. Mr. Kurtis is also invited to attend an awards ceremony, to be held in Washington, D.C. in March, at which time DCLA recipients from across the nation will be honored by Director Mueller.
The DCLA is presented annually by FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III to a recipient in each of the FBI’s 56 domestic field offices. Established in 1990, the DCLA is designed to publicly recognize an individual or organization that has helped with crime prevention and educational programs within their community and which have furthered the efforts of law enforcement.
In selecting Mr. Kurtis as the 2009 recipient of this prestigious award, Director Mueller noted his many contributions over the years in both educating the public and assisting law enforcement. Said Director Mueller, “Shows produced by Kurtis Productions, such as American Greed and American Justice, have documented to the public many successful investigative efforts of law enforcement while Cold Case Files enlists the public’s help in resolving unsolved cases and locating wanted fugitives.”
In announcing this award, Mr. Grant noted the dedication and personal involvement exhibited by Mr. Kurtis to the Chicago FBI during the past several years. Mr. Grant added “Our office was honored to have Mr. Kurtis as the keynote speaker at both our inaugural Law Enforcement Memorial Service in May of 2007 and at our 100th Anniversary celebration in July of 2008. His eloquent remarks left attendees at both events with a greater appreciation of the sacrifice made daily by the men and women of law enforcement.”
In addition, Mr. Kurtis’ most recent series, Cold Case Minute, which airs locally on CBS 2 and profiles unsolved cases from the Chicago area, demonstrates his ongoing dedication to assisting law enforcement.
Mr. Kurtis follows Larry Wert, President, Central and Western Region, NBC Local Media, who was the 2008 DCLA recipient.
An awards luncheon honoring Mr. Kurtis is scheduled for 11:30 a.m. today at Harry Caray’s Restaurant, 33 West Kinzie in Chicago. Mr. Kurtis is also invited to attend an awards ceremony, to be held in Washington, D.C. in March, at which time DCLA recipients from across the nation will be honored by Director Mueller.
Marshals Arrest Fugitive Wanted for Sexual Assault
January 19, 2010 - Wilmington, DE – The United States Marshals have arrested a Wilmington area man who was wanted by Palm Beach County, Florida for sexual assault of a minor.
The Marshals Fugitive Task Force arrested Angel L. Rivera, 29, of 4600 block of Haverford Place, Wilmington who was indicted in Palm Beach County for sexual assault of a minor. The assault occurred in Boca Raton, Florida in August 2008.
Investigators in Florida received information that Rivera was living in the Wilmington area. Deputies went to 455 Stanton-Christiana Rd., Newark at approximately 2:30 pm and arrest Rivera without incident.
The Marshals First State Fugitive Task Force is comprised of Deputy United States Marshals and officers from the Delaware State Police, Delaware State Probation and Parole and the New Castle County and Wilmington Police Departments. Rivera is being held at the Howard Young Correctional Institution.
The Marshals Fugitive Task Force arrested Angel L. Rivera, 29, of 4600 block of Haverford Place, Wilmington who was indicted in Palm Beach County for sexual assault of a minor. The assault occurred in Boca Raton, Florida in August 2008.
Investigators in Florida received information that Rivera was living in the Wilmington area. Deputies went to 455 Stanton-Christiana Rd., Newark at approximately 2:30 pm and arrest Rivera without incident.
The Marshals First State Fugitive Task Force is comprised of Deputy United States Marshals and officers from the Delaware State Police, Delaware State Probation and Parole and the New Castle County and Wilmington Police Departments. Rivera is being held at the Howard Young Correctional Institution.
Woman Charged with Armed Robbery Using a Semi-Automatic Pistol
January 19, 2010 - Teresa G. Bellamy, 49, Evansville, Indiana, was indicted on January 14, 2010, by a federal grand jury sitting in Indianapolis for robbery and use of a firearm in commission of a robbery, announced Timothy M. Morrison, U.S. Attorney, Southern District of Indiana, following an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
The Indictment alleges that on September 19, 2009, Bellamy robbed a Motor Mart gas station located at 1900 North Green River, Evansville, Indiana, brandishing a semi-automatic pistol.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who is prosecuting the case for the government, Bellamy faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Bellamy is currently in state custody and an initial hearing will be scheduled before a U.S. Magistrate Judge after the state case is concluded.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
The Indictment alleges that on September 19, 2009, Bellamy robbed a Motor Mart gas station located at 1900 North Green River, Evansville, Indiana, brandishing a semi-automatic pistol.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Todd S. Shellenbarger, who is prosecuting the case for the government, Bellamy faces a maximum sentence of life imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. Bellamy is currently in state custody and an initial hearing will be scheduled before a U.S. Magistrate Judge after the state case is concluded.
An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
Arizona CBP Arrests 15-Year-Old Marijuana Smuggler
January 15, 2010 - San Luis, Ariz. – U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the San Luis port of entry arrest another juvenile for marijuana smuggling.
Today a 15-year-old juvenile applied for entry into the United States through the pedestrian entrance. The CBP officers who encountered the young man noticed something peculiar about his person and escorted him into the office. Once in secondary the officers found a package of marijuana with a weight of more than one pound taped to his inner thigh.
CBP officers seized the marijuana and the vehicle. The boy was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.
The Customs and Border Protection officers took him into custody and seized the marijuana and turned the case over to the San Luis, Ariz. Police Department for further investigation and processing.
The marijuana has an estimated street value of $2,710.
Today a 15-year-old juvenile applied for entry into the United States through the pedestrian entrance. The CBP officers who encountered the young man noticed something peculiar about his person and escorted him into the office. Once in secondary the officers found a package of marijuana with a weight of more than one pound taped to his inner thigh.
CBP officers seized the marijuana and the vehicle. The boy was turned over to the custody of Immigration and Customs Enforcement for further investigation and prosecution.
The Customs and Border Protection officers took him into custody and seized the marijuana and turned the case over to the San Luis, Ariz. Police Department for further investigation and processing.
The marijuana has an estimated street value of $2,710.
Ecstasy Interdicted by CBP in Washington State
January 15, 2010 - Sumas, Wash. - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Sumas port of entry arrested a 53-year-old Surrey, British Columbia, man on January 14 for attempting to smuggle into the United States 162,415 tablets of Ecstasy worth nearly $2 million.
Paul Douglas, a Canadian citizen, was entering Washington State driving a commercial tractor-trailer combination shortly after 2 a.m. Thursday. Douglas declared that he was en route to Yakama, Wash. to pick up a load of fruit and return to Canada.
A detailed inspection of the tractor-trailer, which included a gamma X-ray image scan, resulted in the discovery of two cardboard boxes containing the numerous vacuum sealed bags of the multicolored Ecstasy pills in the cab of his truck. Douglas was immediately taken into custody by two CBP officers and escorted to a holding cell.
“This is the ninth major Ecstasy seizure, totaling more than one million pills, in our area in one year,” said Area Port Director Greg Alvarez. “Protecting the homeland from illicit narcotics and the harm they pose to the youth of our nation is a priority mission for CBP.”
A field examination of the pills utilizing a narcotic test kit resulted in a positive response for the properties of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), the main narcotic ingredient in Ecstasy. MDMA was classified as a Schedule I drug in 1985, meaning it is deemed to have no medical use and a high potential for abuse. Under a United Nations agreement it has also been criminalized in most countries in the world. The long-term health effects from abuse of the drug are generally of concern to public health officials.
Paul Douglas, a Canadian citizen, was entering Washington State driving a commercial tractor-trailer combination shortly after 2 a.m. Thursday. Douglas declared that he was en route to Yakama, Wash. to pick up a load of fruit and return to Canada.
A detailed inspection of the tractor-trailer, which included a gamma X-ray image scan, resulted in the discovery of two cardboard boxes containing the numerous vacuum sealed bags of the multicolored Ecstasy pills in the cab of his truck. Douglas was immediately taken into custody by two CBP officers and escorted to a holding cell.
“This is the ninth major Ecstasy seizure, totaling more than one million pills, in our area in one year,” said Area Port Director Greg Alvarez. “Protecting the homeland from illicit narcotics and the harm they pose to the youth of our nation is a priority mission for CBP.”
A field examination of the pills utilizing a narcotic test kit resulted in a positive response for the properties of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (MDMA), the main narcotic ingredient in Ecstasy. MDMA was classified as a Schedule I drug in 1985, meaning it is deemed to have no medical use and a high potential for abuse. Under a United Nations agreement it has also been criminalized in most countries in the world. The long-term health effects from abuse of the drug are generally of concern to public health officials.
What is a Ponzi Scheme?
A Ponzi scheme is essentially an investment fraud wherein the operator promises high financial returns or dividends that are not available through traditional investments. Instead of investing victims' funds, the operator pays "dividends" to initial investors using the principle amounts "invested" by subsequent investors. The scheme generally falls apart when the operator flees with all of the proceeds, or when a sufficient number of new investors cannot be found to allow the continued payment of "dividends."
This type of scheme is named after Charles Ponzi of Boston, Massachusetts, who operated an extremely attractive investment scheme in which he guaranteed investors a 50 percent return on their investment in postal coupons. Although he was able to pay his initial investors, the scheme dissolved when he was unable to pay investors who entered the scheme later. Apparently, that wasn't enough, as the Merkles decided to take their criminal activity to the next level—by launching their own Ponzi scheme.
This type of scheme is named after Charles Ponzi of Boston, Massachusetts, who operated an extremely attractive investment scheme in which he guaranteed investors a 50 percent return on their investment in postal coupons. Although he was able to pay his initial investors, the scheme dissolved when he was unable to pay investors who entered the scheme later. Apparently, that wasn't enough, as the Merkles decided to take their criminal activity to the next level—by launching their own Ponzi scheme.
Former Fugitive Cali Cartel Member Sentenced to 16 1/2 Years in Prison
JAN 19 -- MIAMI - Mark R. Trouville, Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, Miami Field Division, Jeffrey H. Sloman, United States Attorney for the Southern District of Florida, and Anthony V. Mangione, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Office of Investigations, announced that defendant Jorge Solano, a/k/a “Eugenio Arocho,” a Colombian national who was a member of the Cali Cartel, was sentenced today following his conviction on drug trafficking and money laundering charges. U.S. Federal District Judge William M. Hoeveler sentenced Solano to 200 months’ imprisonment, to be followed by five years of supervised release.
Solano previously pled guilty to four counts related to the importation of approximately 50,000 kilograms of cocaine into Miami from 1988 to 1991. Specifically, Solano pled guilty to racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to import cocaine, importation of approximately 12,250 kilograms of cocaine in September 1991, and money laundering conspiracy.
According to the court records and statements made in court during the plea hearing, Solano was a member of the Cali Cartel. At its peak in the 1980's and 1990's, the Cali Cartel was responsible for distribution of a majority of the world’s supply of cocaine. During 1990 and 1991, Solano was the Cartel member in Miami primarily responsible for coordinating the importation of Cartel cocaine from Venezuela into South Florida hidden in drums of asphalt and concrete posts.
According to the court’s file, on August 27, 1991, fourteen containers of concrete posts arrived at the Port of Miami onboard the M/V Mercandian Continent, from Puerto Cabello, Venezuela. Shipping invoices and bills of lading submitted to the then “U.S. Customs” listed “Tranca and/or Eugenio Arocho” as the importer of record. A Customs Inspector discovered metal sleeves containing kilos of cocaine concealed in the centers of the concrete posts. Based on this information, law enforcement initiated an investigation. In December 1991, following the search of Cali Cartel warehouses in Miami used for the concrete posts smuggling route, Solano fled to Cali in an effort to avoid being arrested. Solano remained a fugitive for the next seventeen years.
In October 2008, Solano was arrested in Togo, Africa, on suspicion of cocaine trafficking. United States authorities learned of Solano’s arrest from Togolese authorities. With the cooperation of authorities in Togo and Ghana, agents traveled to Africa to bring Solano to United States for prosecution.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation conducted jointly by ICE’s Office of Investigations in Miami and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The investigation ultimately resulted in the conviction of more than 100 members of the Cali Cartel, the seizure of large amounts of cocaine and drug proceeds in the United States and in Colombia, and the dismantling of the Cali Cartel.
Solano previously pled guilty to four counts related to the importation of approximately 50,000 kilograms of cocaine into Miami from 1988 to 1991. Specifically, Solano pled guilty to racketeering conspiracy, conspiracy to import cocaine, importation of approximately 12,250 kilograms of cocaine in September 1991, and money laundering conspiracy.
According to the court records and statements made in court during the plea hearing, Solano was a member of the Cali Cartel. At its peak in the 1980's and 1990's, the Cali Cartel was responsible for distribution of a majority of the world’s supply of cocaine. During 1990 and 1991, Solano was the Cartel member in Miami primarily responsible for coordinating the importation of Cartel cocaine from Venezuela into South Florida hidden in drums of asphalt and concrete posts.
According to the court’s file, on August 27, 1991, fourteen containers of concrete posts arrived at the Port of Miami onboard the M/V Mercandian Continent, from Puerto Cabello, Venezuela. Shipping invoices and bills of lading submitted to the then “U.S. Customs” listed “Tranca and/or Eugenio Arocho” as the importer of record. A Customs Inspector discovered metal sleeves containing kilos of cocaine concealed in the centers of the concrete posts. Based on this information, law enforcement initiated an investigation. In December 1991, following the search of Cali Cartel warehouses in Miami used for the concrete posts smuggling route, Solano fled to Cali in an effort to avoid being arrested. Solano remained a fugitive for the next seventeen years.
In October 2008, Solano was arrested in Togo, Africa, on suspicion of cocaine trafficking. United States authorities learned of Solano’s arrest from Togolese authorities. With the cooperation of authorities in Togo and Ghana, agents traveled to Africa to bring Solano to United States for prosecution.
The prosecution is the result of an investigation conducted jointly by ICE’s Office of Investigations in Miami and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The investigation ultimately resulted in the conviction of more than 100 members of the Cali Cartel, the seizure of large amounts of cocaine and drug proceeds in the United States and in Colombia, and the dismantling of the Cali Cartel.
Former Irving Police Officer Pleads Guilty in HUD Fraud Case
January 19, 2010 - Ramon Anthony Reyes, Jr. has pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jane J. Boyle to one count of making a false statement to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) with regard to his participation in HUD’s “Good Neighbor Next Door/Officer Next Door” mortgage program, announced U.S. Attorney James T. Jacks of the Northern District of Texas. Reyes, 45, faces a maximum statutory sentence of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. He is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Boyle on April 29, 2010.
Under the terms of the “Good Neighbor Next Door/Officer Next Door” mortgage program offered through HUD, law enforcement officers receive a 50 percent discount from the list price of a home in return for living in the property as their sole residence, for 36 months. Participating law enforcement officers also may not own any other residential real estate property at the time they submit their purchase offer and for one year previous to that date. The purpose of the program is to strengthen communities by encouraging employed, professional law enforcement officers to live in areas needing revitalization.
According to plea documents filed in the case, Reyes was employed as a police officer for the City of Irving since 1998. In 1998, Reyes purchased a home located on Dorothy Drive in Grand Prairie, Texas, and began living there.
In 2007, Reyes purchased another home, located on Palo Alto Drive in Mesquite, Texas, using the “Good Neighbor Next Door/Officer Next Door” mortgage program. To comply with the program’s requirements, Reyes transferred title of this Grand Prairie home to a relative and continued to live in the Grand Prairie home, maintaining all utilities in his name and paying the property taxes on the residence.
Reyes admitted that he made a false statement on the annual certification form for the program when he signed the form certifying that he had continuously resided at the Mesquite address, when he knew that he had not.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen P. Fahey is in charge of the prosecution.
Under the terms of the “Good Neighbor Next Door/Officer Next Door” mortgage program offered through HUD, law enforcement officers receive a 50 percent discount from the list price of a home in return for living in the property as their sole residence, for 36 months. Participating law enforcement officers also may not own any other residential real estate property at the time they submit their purchase offer and for one year previous to that date. The purpose of the program is to strengthen communities by encouraging employed, professional law enforcement officers to live in areas needing revitalization.
According to plea documents filed in the case, Reyes was employed as a police officer for the City of Irving since 1998. In 1998, Reyes purchased a home located on Dorothy Drive in Grand Prairie, Texas, and began living there.
In 2007, Reyes purchased another home, located on Palo Alto Drive in Mesquite, Texas, using the “Good Neighbor Next Door/Officer Next Door” mortgage program. To comply with the program’s requirements, Reyes transferred title of this Grand Prairie home to a relative and continued to live in the Grand Prairie home, maintaining all utilities in his name and paying the property taxes on the residence.
Reyes admitted that he made a false statement on the annual certification form for the program when he signed the form certifying that he had continuously resided at the Mesquite address, when he knew that he had not.
The case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development and the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen P. Fahey is in charge of the prosecution.
TUI University Partners with FBI National Academy Associates
Members to transfer training towards specialized course credits
January 15, 2009- TUI University (www.tuiu.edu), a leader in online education, today announced it was named an academic partner by the FBI National Academy Associates, Inc (FBINAA). The FBINAA is a non-profit organization that provides the highest degree of law enforcement expertise, training, education and information to over 17,000 senior law enforcement members. As a partner university, TUI will accept the transfer of FBINAA credits towards its MBA degree programs.
"TUI is the first school we have partnered with in the Western United States. It's a great fit for FBINAA members because of its academic excellence and accommodations for working professionals," stated Gary Foster, chief operating officer, FBI National Academy Associates. "TUI also understands the unique training undergone by law enforcement and the military, and their programs in Strategic Leadership, Public Management, and Criminal Justice Administration offer our members logical career advancement."
The new partnership permits members of the FBINAA, their spouses and dependents, to receive a tuition reduction at TUI of 15% for the Bachelors program and 27.5% for the Masters program. TUI's transfer policy will also allow for the transfer of up to 88 credits from community colleges and four year universities towards the Bachelor degree, and up to 12 Master level credits towards a Master degree. In addition to tuition discounts, there is no cost for textbooks and all application fees are waived.
"This new partnership with the FBI National Academy Associates demonstrates TUI's commitment to serving the educational needs of our nation's first responders, "said Kenneth Sobaski, president and chief executive officer, TUI University. "We hope to provide enhanced academic and career opportunities for law enforcement executives, while simultaneously providing them with applicable knowledge for their current positions in public safety and homeland security."
TUI University alliances include all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, leading law enforcement agencies and organizations such as the National Fraternal Order of Police (NFOP), the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department University (LASDU), the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), CA POST Command College, leading corporations, professional associations, and community colleges.
About TUI University
Founded in 1998, TUI University (www.tuiu.edu) has become a leading online postsecondary university. Its technology-enabled online learning model and solutions provide a convenient, cost-effective, and high-quality education to students. TUI University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is based in Cypress, California.
January 15, 2009- TUI University (www.tuiu.edu), a leader in online education, today announced it was named an academic partner by the FBI National Academy Associates, Inc (FBINAA). The FBINAA is a non-profit organization that provides the highest degree of law enforcement expertise, training, education and information to over 17,000 senior law enforcement members. As a partner university, TUI will accept the transfer of FBINAA credits towards its MBA degree programs.
"TUI is the first school we have partnered with in the Western United States. It's a great fit for FBINAA members because of its academic excellence and accommodations for working professionals," stated Gary Foster, chief operating officer, FBI National Academy Associates. "TUI also understands the unique training undergone by law enforcement and the military, and their programs in Strategic Leadership, Public Management, and Criminal Justice Administration offer our members logical career advancement."
The new partnership permits members of the FBINAA, their spouses and dependents, to receive a tuition reduction at TUI of 15% for the Bachelors program and 27.5% for the Masters program. TUI's transfer policy will also allow for the transfer of up to 88 credits from community colleges and four year universities towards the Bachelor degree, and up to 12 Master level credits towards a Master degree. In addition to tuition discounts, there is no cost for textbooks and all application fees are waived.
"This new partnership with the FBI National Academy Associates demonstrates TUI's commitment to serving the educational needs of our nation's first responders, "said Kenneth Sobaski, president and chief executive officer, TUI University. "We hope to provide enhanced academic and career opportunities for law enforcement executives, while simultaneously providing them with applicable knowledge for their current positions in public safety and homeland security."
TUI University alliances include all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, leading law enforcement agencies and organizations such as the National Fraternal Order of Police (NFOP), the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department University (LASDU), the Los Angeles Police Department (LAPD), CA POST Command College, leading corporations, professional associations, and community colleges.
About TUI University
Founded in 1998, TUI University (www.tuiu.edu) has become a leading online postsecondary university. Its technology-enabled online learning model and solutions provide a convenient, cost-effective, and high-quality education to students. TUI University is accredited by the Accrediting Commission for Senior Colleges and Universities of the Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) and is based in Cypress, California.
Seeking Public’s Assistance in Locating Man Suspected in Attempted Robbery of Wachovia Bank Branch and Robbery of TD Bank Branch
The FBI and the Philadelphia Police Department are seeking the public's assistance to identify and locate the subject responsible for the attempted robbery of the Wachovia Bank branch located at 2 West Girard Avenue, and the robbery of the TD Bank branch located at 3930 Woodhaven Boulevard, earlier today.
At approximately 10:50 a.m., the subject entered the Wachovia Bank branch and made a threatening verbal demand to a teller. The subject fled the bank, however, without obtaining any cash. The subject was wearing red pull-over hooded sweatshirt, and was last seen on foot on Girard Avenue heading towards Frankford Avenue.
The same subject then entered the TD Bank branch at approximately noon, and made a threatening verbal to a teller there indicating that he was armed with a gun. The subject was wearing a white t-shirt. After obtaining an undisclosed amount of cash, the subject fled the bank and was last seen in a small white plain panel van with unknown Pennsylvania license plates on Woodhaven Boulevard heading towards Interstate 95.
The subject is described as a white male, 25 to 35 years old, 5’7” to 5’8” tall, medium build, with brown hair longer on the top then on the sides, a mustache and goatee and a “five-o’clock” shadow. The subject may have red dye stains on his clothing and/or skin.
Two photographs from the attempted robbery of the Wachovia and three pictures from the robbery of the TD Bank are below. This subject is considered armed and dangerous, and anyone with information is asked to call the FBI at 215-418-4000 or the Philadelphia Police Department. There may be a reward for information leading to the identification and apprehension of this subject. Tipsters can remain anonymous.
To view flyers of this and other bank robbery subjects wanted by the FBI/Major Crimes Task Force, please visit www.ppdonline.org and click on the Detectives Box and the Violent Crimes Task Force link.
Steven Babik Charged with Distribution of Child Pornography
January 19, 2010 - Thomas F. Kirwin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced today that Steven Michael Babik, 50, of Gainesville, Florida has been charged by a criminal Information filed in the United States District Court in Gainesville with one count of receipt and distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. These charges are the result of an investigation by the Gainesville Police Department, Alachua County Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the North Florida Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force.
The Information alleges that on numerous dates between November 2, 2009 and November 30, 2009, Babik knowingly received, distributed, and possessed materials depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. As to Count One, Babik faces a mandatory minimum of five years' to a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment, up to lifetime supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. As to Count Two, Babik faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, up to lifetime supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Babik is scheduled for an initial appearance on the charges at 1:00 p.m. today, before United States Magistrate Judge Allan Kornblum.
This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice initiative, Project Safe Childhood. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
The Information alleges that on numerous dates between November 2, 2009 and November 30, 2009, Babik knowingly received, distributed, and possessed materials depicting minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. As to Count One, Babik faces a mandatory minimum of five years' to a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment, up to lifetime supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. As to Count Two, Babik faces a maximum of 10 years in prison, up to lifetime supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Babik is scheduled for an initial appearance on the charges at 1:00 p.m. today, before United States Magistrate Judge Allan Kornblum.
This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice initiative, Project Safe Childhood. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit http://www.projectsafechildhood.gov/.
Former Attorney Sentenced in Fraud Case
January 19, 2010 - Brian L. Nehrig, 43, Fishers, Indiana, was sentenced to three years' probation today by U.S. District Judge Sarah E. Barker following his guilty plea to mail fraud. This case was the result of a investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
During 2005 and 2006, Nehrig worked as a foreclosure attorney doing foreclosure work for Citifinancial. Citifinancial required Nehrig to submit a bid at sheriff’s sales for foreclosed houses, sell the houses at arm’s length transactions, and then submit the proceeds if the home sold to a third party. Instead, Nehrig sometimes submitted inflated bids and had arrangements with friends and associates to buy the properties. Nehrig did not tell Citifinancial about the side deals, which were usually for a few thousand dollars more than the minimum bid requested by Citifinancial. Nehrig did not send Citifinancial the profits. The Court determined the loss to Citifinancial to be $66,000. Citifinancial has been paid through an insurance claim.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Gayle L. Helart, who prosecuted the case for the government, Judge Barker also imposed six months' home confinement, and a requirement that Nehrig perform eight hours of community service per month for each of the 36 months that he is on probation. Nehrig was fined in the amount of $2500. Judge Barker noted that Nehrig’s law license was previously revoked and ordered that he not be self-employed and give full disclosure of this felony conviction to any future employer.
During 2005 and 2006, Nehrig worked as a foreclosure attorney doing foreclosure work for Citifinancial. Citifinancial required Nehrig to submit a bid at sheriff’s sales for foreclosed houses, sell the houses at arm’s length transactions, and then submit the proceeds if the home sold to a third party. Instead, Nehrig sometimes submitted inflated bids and had arrangements with friends and associates to buy the properties. Nehrig did not tell Citifinancial about the side deals, which were usually for a few thousand dollars more than the minimum bid requested by Citifinancial. Nehrig did not send Citifinancial the profits. The Court determined the loss to Citifinancial to be $66,000. Citifinancial has been paid through an insurance claim.
According to Assistant U.S. Attorney Gayle L. Helart, who prosecuted the case for the government, Judge Barker also imposed six months' home confinement, and a requirement that Nehrig perform eight hours of community service per month for each of the 36 months that he is on probation. Nehrig was fined in the amount of $2500. Judge Barker noted that Nehrig’s law license was previously revoked and ordered that he not be self-employed and give full disclosure of this felony conviction to any future employer.
OJJDP FY 2010 Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws Block Grants Program
The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ), Office of Justice Programs (OJP), Office of Juvenile Justice and Delinquency Prevention (OJJDP), is pleased to announce that it is seeking applications for funding under its Fiscal Year (FY) 2010 Enforcing Underage Drinking Laws Block Grants Program. This program furthers DOJ’s mission by supporting and enhancing the efforts of states and local jurisdictions to prohibit the sale of alcoholic beverages to minors and the purchase and consumption of alcoholic beverages by minors.
More Information
http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/grants/solicitations/FY2010/EUDLBlock.pdf
More Information
http://ojjdp.ncjrs.gov/grants/solicitations/FY2010/EUDLBlock.pdf
El Paso CBP Officers Apprehend Attempted Murderer, Seize 600 Pounds of Marijuana in Jalapeno Shipment
January 15, 2010 - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers working at the El Paso port of entry apprehended a man yesterday afternoon who was being sought on attempted murder second degree, arson and aggravated assault charges in Jefferson Parish, La.
In addition to the fugitive apprehension, CBP officers at the El Paso port also made a 627 pound marijuana bust. “Our officers did an outstanding job in intercepting and confirming the identity of this dangerous criminal. CBP officers at the El Paso port of entry identify approximately two dozens wanted people every week because of our inspection process,” said William “Bill” Molaski”, U.S. Customs and Border Protection El Paso port director. “In addition to the fugitive apprehension, CBP officers continue to discover drugs in a variety of concealments. They have intercepted drugs in bags of dog food, stuffed animals and now co-mingled with fresh jalapenos.”
The fugitive apprehension was made at approximately 2:48 p.m. when 29-year-old Jason Michael Acosta entered the Paso Del Norte Bridge crossing from Mexico. Acosta told CBP officers he was wanted. CBP officers performed a query on Acosta and found that there was a National Crime Information Center warrant for the resident of Harvey, La. CBP officers took custody of Acosta and confirmed the warrant. El Paso Police officers took custody of Acosta.
The drug seizure was made at approximately 4:30 p.m. when a 1992 International tractor-trailer hauling a load of fresh jalapenos entered the Bridge of the Americas cargo facility from Mexico. CBP officers selected the vehicle for a gamma-ray exam and identified several anomalies in the appearance of the shipment. The vehicle was moved to the inspection dock where CBP drug sniffing dog “Wizard” searched the shipment and alerted to the cargo. CBP officers inspected the boxes containing mesh bags filled with jalapenos and found numerous wrapped bundles at the bottom of the boxes concealed under the jalapeno bags. CBP officers removed a total of 550 marijuana-filled bundles from the shipment. The seized marijuana weighed 627 pounds. No arrests were made and the investigation is continuing.
In addition to the fugitive apprehension, CBP officers at the El Paso port also made a 627 pound marijuana bust. “Our officers did an outstanding job in intercepting and confirming the identity of this dangerous criminal. CBP officers at the El Paso port of entry identify approximately two dozens wanted people every week because of our inspection process,” said William “Bill” Molaski”, U.S. Customs and Border Protection El Paso port director. “In addition to the fugitive apprehension, CBP officers continue to discover drugs in a variety of concealments. They have intercepted drugs in bags of dog food, stuffed animals and now co-mingled with fresh jalapenos.”
The fugitive apprehension was made at approximately 2:48 p.m. when 29-year-old Jason Michael Acosta entered the Paso Del Norte Bridge crossing from Mexico. Acosta told CBP officers he was wanted. CBP officers performed a query on Acosta and found that there was a National Crime Information Center warrant for the resident of Harvey, La. CBP officers took custody of Acosta and confirmed the warrant. El Paso Police officers took custody of Acosta.
The drug seizure was made at approximately 4:30 p.m. when a 1992 International tractor-trailer hauling a load of fresh jalapenos entered the Bridge of the Americas cargo facility from Mexico. CBP officers selected the vehicle for a gamma-ray exam and identified several anomalies in the appearance of the shipment. The vehicle was moved to the inspection dock where CBP drug sniffing dog “Wizard” searched the shipment and alerted to the cargo. CBP officers inspected the boxes containing mesh bags filled with jalapenos and found numerous wrapped bundles at the bottom of the boxes concealed under the jalapeno bags. CBP officers removed a total of 550 marijuana-filled bundles from the shipment. The seized marijuana weighed 627 pounds. No arrests were made and the investigation is continuing.
Officers Arrest Fugitive Wanted for Child Molestation at Brownsville Port
January 19, 2010 - U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the Brownsville port of entry apprehended a wanted fugitive on a warrant for child molestation issued by Barstow County in Carterville, Ga.
On January 17, CBP officers at the Gateway International Bridge encountered Donald Morris Lovell Jr. a United States citizen and resident of Roswell Georgia. A primary check of Lovell by CBP officers revealed a possible outstanding arrest warrant. CBP officers escorted Donald Morris Lovell Jr. to secondary for further identification and verification of the active arrest warrant.
In secondary, checks of a CBP database identified Lovell as the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant from Barstow County in Carterville, Ga. for child molestation. CBP officers arrested Donald Morris Lovell Jr. and subsequently turned him over to the custody of Cameron County Sheriff’s Office. Donald Morris Lovell Jr. was transported to the county jail and is pending extradition to Barstow County in Carterville, Ga.
“CBP officers in Brownsville continue to utilize their skills that resulted in the apprehension of this wanted fugitive,” Michael Freeman, CBP port director, Brownsville said.
On January 17, CBP officers at the Gateway International Bridge encountered Donald Morris Lovell Jr. a United States citizen and resident of Roswell Georgia. A primary check of Lovell by CBP officers revealed a possible outstanding arrest warrant. CBP officers escorted Donald Morris Lovell Jr. to secondary for further identification and verification of the active arrest warrant.
In secondary, checks of a CBP database identified Lovell as the subject of an outstanding arrest warrant from Barstow County in Carterville, Ga. for child molestation. CBP officers arrested Donald Morris Lovell Jr. and subsequently turned him over to the custody of Cameron County Sheriff’s Office. Donald Morris Lovell Jr. was transported to the county jail and is pending extradition to Barstow County in Carterville, Ga.
“CBP officers in Brownsville continue to utilize their skills that resulted in the apprehension of this wanted fugitive,” Michael Freeman, CBP port director, Brownsville said.
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