NewzIntel.com

Category: Intelligence Agencies

  • MIL-OSI Security: Participants in ‘Tech Support’ Scheme Charged with Conspiracy to Launder Fraudulent Proceeds

    Source: US FBI

    TUCSON, Ariz. – On December 11, 2024, a federal grand jury in Tucson returned an elder fraud indictment against Ahmed Maqbul Syed, 57, and Rupesh Chandra Chintakindi, 27, both citizens of India, for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering. Syed was also charged with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud.

    The indictment alleges that Syed, Chintakindi, and others conspired to launder fraudulent proceeds derived from schemes targeting elderly victims around the United States, including Arizona. Generally, victims were lured into the schemes when they observed a “pop-up” display on their computer, indicating their computer had been hacked or there was another issue. Victims were directed to contact “tech support” or “government representatives” to resolve the issue. In fact, victims were directed to other conspirators in the scheme who further convinced the victims that their accounts had been hacked and their information had been compromised, which was not true. The conspirators then instructed the victims to withdraw or transfer money by telling them, for example, that they needed to protect their money and accounts.

    Victims were directed to purchase gold from various gold dealers and to withdraw cash. They were then told that individuals purporting to be representatives of the government would retrieve the gold and cash from the victims. Victims were also directed to purchase gift cards from various private businesses and transfer the gift card numbers to individuals they were led to believe would help them. At least one victim was also directed to make cash deposits into a bitcoin ATM.

    Convictions for Conspiracy to Commit Money Laundering and Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud each carry a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

    Syed has been arrested on the charges, and the Court has ordered him detained pending trial. An indictment is simply a method by which a person is charged with criminal activity and raises no inference of guilt. An individual is presumed innocent until evidence is presented to a jury that establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation (Indianapolis and Phoenix Divisions) and the Marana (Arizona) Police Department conducted the investigation. Other local law enforcement agencies from Arizona, Illinois, Wisconsin, Texas, and Indiana also assisted with the investigation. The United States Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, Tucson, is handling the prosecution.
     

    CASE NUMBER:           CR-24-08825-TUC-JCH
    RELEASE NUMBER:    2024-181_Syed

     

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    For more information on the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/az/
    Follow the U.S. Attorney’s Office, District of Arizona, on X @USAO_AZ for the latest news.

     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Texarkana Man Sentenced to More Than 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking

    Source: US FBI

    TEXARKANA – A Texarkana, Arkansas, man was sentenced today to 121 months in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.  The Honorable Chief Judge Susan O. Hickey presided over the sentencing hearing, which was held in the United States District Court in Texarkana.

    According to court records, on November 9, 2021, investigators with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Texarkana Arkansas Police Department, Bi-State Narcotics Task Force, and Homeland Security Investigations served a federal search warrant at the residence of A’jene Rashodd Cornelius, age 29.  Cornelius and two family members, including a small child, were present when the search warrant was executed.  Inside the residence, investigators found and seized over 1.3 pounds of pure methamphetamine, multiple loaded firearms, and over $13,000 in drug trafficking proceeds.  Cornelius pleaded guilty in August 2023.

    U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes made the announcement.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations and the Bi-State Narcotics Task Force investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Graham Jones prosecuted the case for the United States.

    Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website at www.pacer.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Las Vegas Man Sentenced to More Than 16 Years in Prison for Sexual Exploitation of Teenager

    Source: US FBI

    LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey to 16 years and eight months in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release for coercion and enticement, child sexual exploitation, and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM).

    According to court documents, Kenton Hardy King (29) met a 15-year-old child through Omegle, an online chat platform. In June 2020, he coerced and enticed the victim to engage in sexual activity with him and to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing sexually explicit material. King possessed CSAM on two of his cell phones. He threatened to send images and video of the victim to the victim’s family, friends, and schoolmates.

    In June 2024, following a five-day trial, a jury found King guilty of one count each of coercion and enticement; sexual exploitation of children; and possession of child pornography.

    United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI made the announcement.

    The FBI and the Henderson Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Steven Rose and Jean Ripley prosecuted the case.

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

    Anyone with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children at 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or https://report.cybertip.org.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Convicts Reno Man of Assaulting a Federal Officer

    Source: US FBI

    RENO – A federal jury convicted a Reno man on Wednesday for assaulting a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon during the execution of an arrest warrant.

    According to evidence presented at trial, on February 16, 2022, Matthew John Nason, 38, fired a handgun in the direction of a Deputy United States Marshal while the Deputy was attempting to serve a valid arrest warrant for Nason and his girlfriend at Nason’s residence.

    Following a three-day trial, the jury found Nason guilty of one-count of assault of a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.

    United States District Judge Miranda M. Du presided over the jury trial. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for February 4, 2025. Nason faces the maximum statutory penalty of 20 years imprisonment and a fine of $250,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI made the announcement.

    The case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorneys Megan Rachow and Randy St. Clair are prosecuting the case.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Barling Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening Federal Judge and Child Pornography Offense

    Source: US FBI

    FORT SMITH – A Barling man pled guilty today to one count of Threatening a Federal Official and one count of Receipt of Child Pornography. The Honorable Judge Mark E. Ford presided over the change of plea hearing in the United States District Court in Fort Smith.

    According to the plea agreement, Fort Smith Police Department was dispatched to a local shopping establishment pursuant to a 911 call wherein the caller stated the defendant, Rodney Dewayne Sheffield, age 40, had traveled to the shopping establishment in Fort Smith, Arkansas with the intent to shoot people.

    Officers with the Fort Smith Police Department subsequently made a traffic stop on Sheffield for operating his vehicle in a reckless manner on Rogers Avenue in Fort Smith. During the traffic stop, the officer observed a rifle on the passenger side floorboard of the vehicle.  The Officer separated Sheffield from the rifle and located ammunition on his person. 

    Further investigation showed Sheffield had a pending Social Security disability claim and was upset at the status of the claim. A witness stated Sheffield had traveled to the building where the Social Security administration offices were located and told him, “I’ve had enough, I can’t take it anymore.” The individual further stated Sheffield told him he was going to shoot the Social Security Administrative Law Judge. Sheffield stated he wanted to do this to “teach the Government a lesson.” The individual stated he called 911 after speaking to Sheffield.

    Subsequently a search warrant was obtained for Sheffield’s phone. Officers located images and videos of child pornography including children as young as approximately 5 years old on Sheffield’s phone.

    Sheffield’s sentencing date will be set at a later time. He faces a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment for Threatening the Federal Official and a minimum of 5 years imprisonment, maximum of 20 years for the Receipt of Child Pornography. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Office of the Inspector General Social Security Administration and Fort Smith Police Department are investigating the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Marshall is prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Reno Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor

    Source: US FBI

    RENO – A Reno resident was sentenced by United States District Judge Miranda M. Du to 10 years in prison to be followed by 20 years of supervised release for coercion and enticement of a teenage boy.

    According to court documents, in March 2023, Gregory Weeks (37) engaged in sexually explicit conversations with and sent nude videos of himself masturbating to a 15-year-old boy. The conversations included making plans to have sex in a hotel in Reno. Weeks drove from Utah to Reno and picked the victim up outside the gate leading to the victim’s home. Weeks then drove the victim to a hotel where Weeks made reservations and engaged in sexual activities with the victim.

    In July 2024, Weeks pleaded guilty to one-count of coercion and enticement. In addition to imprisonment, Weeks was also ordered to pay $6,150 in restitution to the victim. Under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), after his release from prison, Weeks will be required to register as a sex offender.

    United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI made the announcement.

    The FBI-led Northern Nevada Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force, which is comprised of detectives and investigators from the Sparks Police Department, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Nevada Attorney General’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Megan Rachow prosecuted the case.

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

    Anyone with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or online at https://report.cybertip.org.

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    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Computer Programmer Convicted for Helping Run One of the Biggest Illegal Television Show Streaming Services in the United States

    Source: US FBI

    After a two-week trial, a federal jury in Las Vegas yesterday convicted a Cuban citizen and U.S. permanent resident for helping operate an illegal streaming service with one of the largest quantities of infringing works. The defendant, who was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement, is the eighth and final defendant to be convicted in the case.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Yoany Vaillant, 43, worked as a computer programmer for Jetflicks, an online, subscription-based service headquartered in Las Vegas that permitted users to stream and, at times, download copyrighted television episodes without the permission of relevant copyright owners. At one point, Jetflicks claimed to have 183,285 different television episodes, far more than Netflix, Hulu, Vudu, Amazon Prime, Disney+, or any other licensed streaming service. At Jetflicks, Vaillant worked directly with Kristopher Dallmann and Jared Jaurequi, who were convicted of criminal copyright offenses by a different jury earlier this year.

    According to his resume, Vaillant had 15 years of computer programming experience when he started at Jetflicks and knew 27 computer languages. During the four-and-a-half months that Vaillant worked at Jetflicks he made significant contributions to the operation of the service, including fixing issues affecting the automated downloading, processing, syncing, uploading, and streaming of Jetflicks’ inventory of infringing television episodes.

    Evidence at trial showed that Vaillant and his co-conspirators scoured the internet to find infringing television programs from pirate sites around the world — including some of the biggest sites specializing in infringing content such as The Pirate Bay, RARBG, altHUB, and Nzbplanet — using automated software and computer scripts that ran nonstop. Vaillant and his co-conspirators reproduced hundreds of thousands of copyrighted television episodes without authorization and streamed the infringing programs to tens of thousands of paid subscribers located throughout the United States, often providing episodes to subscribers the day after the shows originally aired on television. The vast scale of Jetflicks’ piracy affected every significant copyright owner of a television program in the United States and resulted in millions of dollars of losses to the U.S. television show and streaming industries.

    Vaillant was one of eight defendants indicted in the Eastern District of Virginia in 2019 for running Jetflicks. In that case, Vaillant’s co-defendant Darryl Polo, a computer programmer, pleaded guilty to four criminal copyright counts and one money laundering count, which related to Jetflicks as well as another illegal streaming site he operated. Co-defendant Luis Villarino, also a computer programmer, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement at Jetflicks. The court sentenced Polo to four years and nine months in prison and Villarino to one year and one day in prison.

    In February 2022, the court transferred the case to the District of Nevada for trial. The court in the District of Nevada subsequently severed Vaillant’s case from the other remaining five defendants — Dallmann, Jaurequi, Douglas Courson, Felipe Garcia, and Peter Huber — and those defendants were tried in Las Vegas last June. Dallmann ran the Jetflicks operation with assistance from Jaurequi and Courson; Garcia was in charge of customer support and helped obtain television show content; and Huber provided computer programming services. A jury found all five defendants guilty of conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement, and Dallmann was also found guilty of three additional counts of criminal copyright infringement and two counts of money laundering by concealment. This was the largest internet piracy case by volume of infringed works — and first illegal streaming case — ever to go to trial.

    The court will sentence Dallmann, Courson, Garcia, Jaurequi, Huber, and Vaillant on Feb. 3 and 4, 2025. The court will determine any sentences after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada; and Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI Washington Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the FBI Las Vegas Field Office.

    Senior Counsel Matthew A. Lamberti, Trial Attorney Michael Christin, and Acting Deputy Chief Christopher S. Merriam of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Little Rock to Host Diversity Agent Recruitment (DAR) Event

    Source: US FBI

    LITTLE ROCK, AR—The FBI’s Little Rock Field Office will host an in-person recruiting event to encourage talented individuals from diverse backgrounds to explore the unique and fulfilling career as an FBI special agent.

    FBI Little Rock’s Diversity Agent Recruitment event, also known as DAR, will be held from 5:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. on July 24 in Little Rock, Arkansas. This is an invitation-only information session that will provide prospective candidates with a better understanding of the special agent application process, qualification requirements, and physical fitness standards. The DAR also provides attendees the opportunity to hear firsthand the personal experiences of FBI special agents and what it’s like to work in their respective career fields.

    “In order to best keep our communities safe, the FBI relies on special agents from various backgrounds, communities, and industries,” said FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge Alicia D. Corder. “Diversity in our workforce only makes us stronger and unites us in our mission to protect the American people.”

    There is no cost to attend, and attendees will not be required to submit a formal application following the event. Details about the location of the event will be made available to qualified individuals who complete the registration process.

    To request an invitation to this recruitment event, interested parties can apply online to the Little Rock DAR Talent Network on FBIJobs.gov, or they can click here. The deadline to apply is Wednesday, July 17, 2024.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brooklyn Man Admits to Fraudulently Entering Competitor Laboratory, Destroying and Stealing Equipment

    Source: US FBI

    NEWARK, N.J. –  A Brooklyn, New York man admitted to having entered a laboratory business on false pretenses and destroying and stealing that business’ equipment, U.S. Attorney John Giordano announced.

    Eric Leykin, 33, of Brooklyn, New York, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Esther Salas in Newark federal court to a one-count indictment charging him with wire fraud.

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

    Leykin was the CEO of a clinical reference laboratory based in New Jersey. Leykin’s laboratory competed against the victim business, another clinical reference laboratory also based in New Jersey.  On June 30, 2022, Leykin bought and activated a prepaid mobile phone and called an employee of the victim business, claiming to be a technician with a vendor that the victim business used to service its laboratory equipment. On that false pretense, Leykin arranged with the victim business’ employee to come to the victim business on the following day, supposedly to service the victim business’ laboratory equipment. On July 1, 2022, the date of the supposed service appointment, Leykin went to the victim business, entered the premises fraudulently posing as a vendor technician, and proceeded to destroy a significant amount of the victim business’ laboratory and computer equipment. Leykin also stole multiple hard drives housed within the victim business’ equipment.

    The wire fraud count carries a maximum potential penalty of 20 years in prison and a maximum fine of either $250,000 or twice the gain or loss from the offense, whichever is greatest. Sentencing is scheduled for July 22, 2025.

    U.S. Attorney Giordano credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly in Newark, with the investigation leading to the guilty plea.  U.S. Attorney Giordano also thanked the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, under the direction of Prosecutor Theodore N. Stephens II, and the Millburn Police Department, under the direction of Chief Brian Gilfedder, for substantial assistance provided to the investigation.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew M. Trombly, Deputy Chief of the Cybercrime Unit, and Chana Y. Zuckier of the Bank Integrity, Recovery, and Money Laundering Unit.

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    Defense counsel: Albert Dayan, Esq.; Robert DeGroot, Esq.; Oleg Nekritin, Esq.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty to Threatening to Assault and Murder a United States Judge and Federal Law Enforcement Officer

    Source: US FBI

          FAYETTEVILLE—Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced today that a Jackson, Mississippi, man has pleaded guilty to one count of threatening to assault and murder a United States judge and one count of threatening to assault and murder a federal law enforcement officer. Joshua Matthew Goodin, 40, entered this guilty plea on Monday, July 1, 2024, before United States Magistrate Judge Christy D. Comstock.

          United States District Judge Stephen R. Bough, Western District of Missouri, will sentence Goodin at a later date. Threatening a federal official is punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, not more than three years of supervised release, and a fine of not more than $250,000.

          The investigation into Goodin revealed that on or about July 5, 2022, while an inmate at the Washington County Detention Facility in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Goodin sent two letters to the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Jackson, Mississippi. In the letter, Goodin stated in part, “I swear I’m going to kill you all, I’m gonna blow your f****** office up. …Your (sic) gonna die I promise nothing or no one will stop me.”

          An investigation further revealed that Goodin sent a second letter stating in part, “I’m Joshua Goodin I was recently in Federal Court on a gun charge. The b**** ass d.a. (name redacted), he talked real bad about me. For that he will pay with his life, him and the judge don’t understand who I really am.”

          Goodin was indicted on July 25, 2023.

          The case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and U.S. Marshals Service.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Paterson Firearms Trafficker Indicted on Firearm Offenses, Including Possession of Machine Guns

    Source: US FBI

    NEWARK, N.J. – A Paterson man was indicted today by a federal grand jury for his role in committing firearms offenses after authorities discovered dozens of illicit firearms, including 3D-printed “ghost” gun frames, machine gun conversion devices, firearm silencers, short-barreled rifles, hundreds of rounds of ammunition, and a 3D printer in his residence, U.S. Attorney John Giordano announced.

    Mikhail Gouldson, 36, of Paterson, New Jersey, is charged in a five-count indictment with one count of dealing in firearms without a license, one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, one count of possession of machineguns, one count of possession of unregistered firearms and one count of attempted trafficking in firearms. Gouldson, who was previously charged by complaint, will be arraigned on a date to be determined.

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

    Over the course of the investigation, law enforcement intercepted multiple shipments of weaponry that were mailed to Gouldson’s residence. After searching Gouldson’s residence, law enforcement recovered large quantities of firearms and ammunition, as well as 3D printing equipment.

    The dealing in firearms without a license count carries a maximum penalty of 5 years’ imprisonment. The possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon and attempted trafficking in firearms counts each carries a maximum penalty of 15 years’ imprisonment. The possession of machineguns and unregistered firearms counts each carries a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment. Each of the counts carries a maximum fine of $250,000.

    U.S. Attorney John Giordano credited special agents of the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations Newark, under the direction of Ricky J. Patel; the Federal Bureau of Investigation, under the direction of Acting Special Agent in Charge Terence G. Reilly in Newark; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Newark Field Division, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge L.C. Cheeks, Jr.; and the postal inspectors of the United States Postal Inspection Service, Philadelphia Division, under the direction of Inspector in Charge Christopher A. Nielsen, with the investigation leading to today’s charges.

    This case was prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act of June 2022.  The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms

    This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.

    This case is also part of the Paterson Violent Crime Initiative (VCI), which was formed in 2020 by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Jersey, the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, and the City of Paterson’s Department of Public Safety for the purpose of combatting violent crime in and around Paterson. As part of this partnership, federal, state, county, and city agencies collaborate and pool resources to prosecute violent offenders who endanger the safety of the community. The VCI is composed of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals, the Paterson Department of Public Safety, the Paterson Police Department, the Passaic County Prosecutor’s Office, the Passaic County Sheriff’s Office, N.J. State Parole, Bergen County Jail, N.J. State Police Regional Operations and Intelligence Center/Real Time Crime Center, and N.J. Department of Corrections.

    The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel H. Rosenblum of the Narcotics/OCDETF Unit in Newark.

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

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Arkansas Man Arrested for Allegedly Assaulting Law Enforcement and Other Charges During January 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: US FBI

            WASHINGTON — An Arkansas man was arrested today for allegedly assaulting law enforcement and other charges related to his conduct during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His alleged actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                David Michael Camden, 45, of Tontitown, Arkansas, is charged in a criminal complaint filed in the District of Columbia with felony offenses of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers and civil disorder.  In addition to the felonies, Camden is also charged with several misdemeanor offenses, including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly conduct in a Capitol building, and act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings.

                The FBI arrested Camden today in Fayetteville, and he is expected to make his initial appearance in the Western District of Arkansas.

                According to court documents, it is alleged that Camden was identified on Jan. 6, 2021, approaching a bike rack barricade separating police officers from rioters gathered on the West Front of Capitol grounds. Here, Camden yelled at officers and allegedly pushed a bike rack barricade into a line of U.S. Capitol Police Officers in an apparent attempt to breach the line at this location. In response, officers successfully repelled Camden’s advance and deployed a chemical irritant in his direction to preempt further aggression.

                After this incident, it is alleged that Camden remained on Capitol grounds as the riot further developed. At approximately 2:11 p.m., court documents say that Camden deployed a fire extinguisher toward an assembled police line. Camden later moved to a media tower assembled for the upcoming Inauguration, and once he arrived at the media tower, Camden climbed the tower and waived a “Three Percenters” flag above the mob of rioters. Court documents say that “Three Percenters” are an American far-right anti-government militia.  

                This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Arkansas.

                The case is being investigated by the FBI’s Little Rock and Washington Field Offices. Camden was identified as BOLO (Be on the Lookout) #286 on the FBI’s seeking information images. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.

                 In the 41 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,450 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 500 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing. 

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

                A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Pine Bluff Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug-Trafficking Crime

    Source: US FBI

          LITTLE ROCK—Tristan Larandell Lee, a multi-convicted felon, will spend the next 15 years in federal prison for illegally possessing cocaine with intent to distribute and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a federal drug-trafficking crime. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down on Tuesday, July 9, 2024, by United States District Judge James M. Moody, Jr.

          An investigation revealed that on Monday, March 8, 2021, Arkansas State Police troopers responded to a traffic accident on the median of I-530 after receiving reports of this vehicle being driven in a reckless manner. Arkansas State Police troopers located Lee in the driver’s seat. The responding trooper found Lee asleep. He struck the front passenger window which woke Lee up, at which time Lee attempted to start his vehicle and flee.

          Lee was given commands to exit his vehicle but refused to do so. The trooper eventually opened the passenger door to remove Lee from the vehicle, who was placed into custody due to combative behavior. During an inventory search of Lee’s vehicle, cocaine, heroin, marijuana, assorted pills, drug paraphernalia, and an Anderson Manufacturing, AM-15 rifle equipped with a 60-round drum magazine were located.

          On June 8, 2022, Lee, 39, of Pine Bluff, was indicted by a federal grand jury on one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin, one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of unlawful possession of a firearm by a felon. On March 13, 2024, Lee pleaded guilty to possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime.

          United States District Judge Moody sentenced Lee to 10 years’ imprisonment for possession of cocaine with intent to distribute and five years’ imprisonment for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, ordering the sentences be served consecutively to one another. Judge Moody also sentenced Lee to five years’ supervised release.

          The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Arkansas State Police. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Amanda Fields.

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    Additional information about the office of the

    United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Registered Sex Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography Offense

    Source: US FBI

    FORT SMITH – A Van Buren man was sentenced today to 120 months in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release on one count of Transportation of Child Pornography. The Honorable P.K. Holmes III presided over the sentencing hearing in the U.S. District Court in Fort Smith.

    According to court documents, James Allen Price, age 42, is a registered sex offender. In July 2023 law enforcement was alerted by NCMEC (National Center for Missing and Exploited Children) that someone had emailed child pornography from one email account to another. Subsequent law enforcement investigation identified Price as the owner of both email accounts. A federal search warrant was conducted on Price’s residence and electronic devices were seized. Price was interviewed by law enforcement where he admitted to emailing himself child pornography. Price possessed images of children under the age of twelve years old.

    U.S. Attorney David Clay Fowlkes of the Western District of Arkansas made the announcement.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation, Van Buren Police Department and Joplin, Missouri Police Department investigated the case.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Carly Marshall prosecuted the case.

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

    Related court documents may be found on the Public Access to Electronic Records website @ www.pacer.gov.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Repeat Sex Offender from Michigan Sentenced to 40 Years in Federal Prison After Being Convicted of Numerous Sexual Offenses Against a Child

    Source: US FBI

          LITTLE ROCK—Jeremy Robert Ward, a registered sex offender from Michigan, was sentenced to 40 years in federal prison on Thursday. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down by Chief United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker.

          Ward was previously convicted in 2013 in Michigan of three counts of possession of child sexual abusive material and one count of accosting a child for an immoral purpose.

          Ward met the 12-year-old minor victim online in September 2022 when he added her to his Snapchat account. He exchanged messages with the victim for approximately three weeks before traveling to Arkansas from his home in Michigan to meet her. On October 15, 2022, he met her face-to-face when he met her in his pickup truck while she was riding her bike near her neighborhood in Bryant. During her encounter with Ward, the victim began surreptitiously recording a portion of her exchange with him. On the video, Ward told her, “I was hoping to take you home” and “I just wish she [her mom] would let you go, especially since I drove all the way down here.” Ward also told the minor victim that she must “think I’m gonna kidnap you or something,” to which she replied, “You probably are about to at this point.” He later asked if she knew of any “private spots,” in an attempt to find a more secluded place to be with her.

          Around the same time, using an application on her cell phone, her father noticed she was outside of the established boundary where she was permitted to be. Her parents went to her location, and her father found the minor victim laying in the grass with Ward, whose pants were around his ankles. Ward then fled into the woods.

          The minor victim testified at trial that while she was in the field with Ward, he attempted to commit sexual acts with her. Subsequent investigation revealed that the victim and Ward communicated through video messages, some of which Ward recorded on his phone. The recorded video messages were recovered from Ward’s phone and included video and still images of the nude minor victim in the shower.

          After a three-day trial that concluded on January 24, 2024, a federal jury found Ward, 33, of Marine City, Michigan, guilty on all nine counts for which he was indicted: one count of interstate travel with the purpose of enticing a minor to engage in sexual activity with a minor, six counts of sexual exploitation of a minor, one count of receipt of child pornography, and one count of travel with the purpose to engage in illicit sexual activity with a minor.

          Judge Baker also sentenced Ward to a lifetime of supervised release.

          The investigation was conducted by the Bryant Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kristin Bryant and Amanda Fields.

    # # #

    Additional information about the office of the

    United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Jonesboro Man Who Instructed Young Girls to Self-Harm, Drink Toilet Water, and Film Child Pornography Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison

    Source: US FBI

          LITTLE ROCK—Justin Lee Palmer, who “coached” young girls who were anorexic and encouraged them to self-harm and film child pornography, will spend 30 years in federal prison for production of child pornography. Jonathan D. Ross, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, announced the sentence, which was handed down on Thursday by Chief United States District Judge Kristine G. Baker0.

          “A vile, disgusting, reprobate has finally received his due, the maximum sentence under the law,” said Ross. “We are thankful for the tireless work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the bravery of the victims and their families to bring a stop to his crimes. Parents everywhere should heed this case as reason to monitor and engage with your children’s use of social media.”

          An investigation revealed that in March 2020, FBI agents in New Jersey identified a user on KIK messenger who had sexually abused a 9-year-old girl and distributed videos of the abuse to other KIK users. One of the users who received the child pornography was identified by the username “skipdinnergetmethin.” Agents were able to connect the IP addresses associated with that username to Palmer, of Jonesboro, Arkansas. A search of one of Palmer’s cell phones revealed numerous images and videos that contained child pornography.

          The investigation further revealed that Palmer, 44, would pose as a 15-year-old girl, befriend teen and preteen girls, and “coach” them on how to be anorexic. He would instruct the victims to film themselves pulling on their fat areas while nude to make them feel disgusted and motivated to lose weight. Agents discovered that Palmer also directed victims to film themselves performing other humiliating and harmful acts, such as cutting demeaning words into their skin, drinking toilet water and their own urine, and engaging in sexually explicit activities.

          In April 2020, Palmer asked a young female on KIK messenger, “what are your stats?” to which the female responded, “cw [current weight] 93 pounds. Five feet one inch. Female. 13 years old. Goal weight 75.” Palmer instructed the minor female to “suck in your belly so I can see your ribs.” This minor victim appears in 89 photographs and videos sent to Palmer, 71 of which depict her engaging in sexual, humiliating, or self-harming acts.

          “Mr. Palmer’s actions were revolting and deplorable,” said FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge Alicia D. Corder. “Today’s sentence showcases FBI Little Rock’s commitment to utilizing all available resources to protect innocent children from predators who seem to harm them.”

          On October 8, 2020, Palmer was indicted by a federal grand jury for two counts of production of child pornography and one count of attempted production of child pornography. He pleaded guilty to production of child pornography on August 4, 2023. Chief Judge Baker also sentenced Palmer to a lifetime of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system.

          The investigation was conducted by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Eldridge prosecuted the case.

    # # #

    This news release, as well as additional information about the office of the

    United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Arkansas, is available online at

    https://www.justice.gov/edar

    X (formerly known as Twitter):

    @USAO_EDAR 

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: World Day Against Trafficking in Persons

    Source: US FBI

    LITTLE ROCK, AR—Today, the FBI recognizes World Day Against Trafficking of Persons. The FBI investigates over 1,000 cases of human trafficking each year and is continually evolving and adapting efforts and resources to outpace this rapidly growing criminal industry.

    The most effective way to investigate human trafficking is through a collaborative, multi-agency approach with our federal, state, local, and tribal partners. FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Forces operate within nearly every FBI field office. These task forces seek to recover victims and investigate traffickers at the state and federal level.

    Human trafficking is the illegal exploitation of a person for labor or services. Anyone can be a victim of human trafficking, and it can occur in any U.S. community—cities, suburbs, and even rural areas. The FBI investigates human trafficking cases under its Crimes Against Children and Human Trafficking program. We take a trauma informed, victim-centered approach to these cases.

    “Human trafficking is one of the most vile and horrific crimes the FBI investigates,” said FBI Little Rock Special Agent in Charge Alicia D. Corder. “FBI Little Rock relentlessly works with our law enforcement partners, non-governmental agencies, and other nonprofits on the frontline to combat human trafficking in Arkansas.”

    Since 2020, the FBI has received nearly 2000 human trafficking tips from the public. While all reports have not resulted in investigations, the FBI encourages the public to continue to report suspicion of human trafficking activity.

    More information about how the FBI investigates human trafficking can be found on the FBI website.

    To report human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Resource Center (NHTRC) at 1-888-373-7888 or text 233733. NHTRC is a national, toll-free hotline, with specialists available to answer calls from anywhere in the country, 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Tips can also be submitted on the NHTRC website. Tips involving children in trafficking situations should be submitted through the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children’s CyberTipline or call 1-800-THE-LOST.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Violent Recidivist Sentenced to More Than Four Years in Federal Prison for Racially Motivated Attack on Asian American Woman

    Source: US FBI

    LOS ANGELES – A Southern California man has been sentenced to 51 months in federal prison for punching an Asian American woman in the head while shouting racial slurs and then leaving her bloodied in a Culver City street in 2021, the Justice Department announced today.

    Jesse Allen Lindsey, 38, who was transient at the time of the attack, was sentenced on Monday by United States District Judge Michael W. Fitzgerald.

    Lindsey pleaded guilty in December 2024 to one count of a hate crime. He has been in federal custody since July 2024.

    On June 14, 2021, at approximately 1 a.m., Lindsey began following the victim on her walk to work. According to the government’s sentencing position, Lindsey shouted racial slurs, cursed at the victim, and told her, “You don’t belong here.” He then violently punched her in the head. While the victim lay face down in the street, defendant shouted, “You hear what I said, [N-word]? I said good morning, bitch!”

    Emergency personnel later transported the victim to a hospital to treat injuries to her head and ear. She was unable to work for a month and suffered years of psychological trauma, prosecutors said.

    At sentencing, Judge Fitzgerald called the attack a “shocking and horrible crime” and noted Lindsey’s “serious criminal record.” Lindsey has 13 criminal convictions for firearms and narcotics offenses, domestic battery, grand theft, and attempted extortion. He also has at least 14 violations of probation or pretrial release and 19 additional arrests or contacts with law enforcement, the government said at Monday’s sentencing hearing.

    Lindsey fled California after seeing news reports about the attack. Law enforcement officers eventually located Lindsey in a California state prison serving time for an unrelated conviction. 

    During an interview with law enforcement about the assault, Lindsey eventually admitted to punching the victim, but falsely claimed self-defense, the government’s sentencing position stated. Lindsey said the “little Asian person” was “mouthy” and looked like a “gangbanger.” Referencing the Asian actor known for his martial arts ability, Lindsey claimed the victim might pull “some Jet Li [expletive].” The victim was a middle-aged Asian woman who stood five feet tall and weighed approximately 120 pounds. Lindsey was over six feet tall and weighed approximately 250 pounds.

    The FBI investigated this matter and received substantial assistance from the Culver City Police Department.

    Assistant United States Attorney Lindsey Greer Dotson prosecuted this case.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: High-Ranking Member of Sinaloa Cartel Indicted on Drug Conspiracy Charge

    Source: US FBI

    SAN DIEGO — A federal grand jury in Chicago indicted a high-ranking member of the Sinaloa Cartel for allegedly manufacturing cocaine, fentanyl, and other drugs in Mexico and importing them into the United States.

    According to an indictment returned Monday in the Northern District of Illinois, Jose Angel Canobbio Inzunza, 44, served as a principal advisor, lieutenant, and security chief for Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar. Ivan Archivaldo Guzman Salazar, along with his three brothers, allegedly led a faction of the Sinaloa Cartel in Mexico after the arrest and imprisonment of their father, Joaquin Guzman Loera. The indictment alleges Canobbio Inzunza conspired with the brothers — who are known as the “Chapitos” — and others to manufacture cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, and marijuana in Mexico and import the drugs into the United States for further distribution. The indictment states that Canobbio Inzunza financed and led an armed security group known as “Los Chimales,” which provided security for the Guzman faction of the Sinaloa Cartel and engaged in armed conflict to assist the Chapitos in importing drugs into the United States. The Chapitos have been charged in other indictments in the United States within the last year.

    Canobbio Inzunza is charged with conspiracy to manufacture and distribute controlled substances for unlawful importation into the United States and to import controlled substances into the United States. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Canobbio Inzunza is believed to be currently residing in Mexico and a U.S. warrant has been issued for his arrest.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, Acting U.S. Attorney Morris Pasqual for the Northern District of Illinois, U.S. Attorney Tara K. McGrath for the Southern District of California, Assistant Director in Charge David Sundberg of the FBI Washington Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy of the FBI San Diego Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Francisco B. Burrola of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Arizona made the announcement.

    The FBI and HSI are investigating the case.

    Trial Attorney Kirk Handrich of the Criminal Division’s Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew Erskine and Michelle Parthum for the Northern District of Illinois and Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew Sutton for the Southern District of California are prosecuting the case.

    The case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles drug trafficking organizations and other criminal networks that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local enforcement agencies.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Siblings of Fraud; Defendants Made Tens of Millions of Dollars from Lying to Manufacturers in Years-Long Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    SAN DIEGO – Adriana Camberos (formerly Adriana Shayota) and Andres Camberos, sister and brother, were convicted by a federal jury of multiple fraud charges on October 25, 2024.

    Their illegal scheme involved lying to manufacturers to sell wholesale groceries and other goods at steep discounts by promising the goods would be sold in Mexico, or to prisons or rehabilitation facilities. Instead, the defendants sold the products at higher prices to U.S. distributors, for the U.S. market. Wire fraud charges arose from the numerous wire transfers, as well as other interstate communications, the defendants made as they bought products from the manufacturers, transferred money among their own companies to facilitate the scheme, and then re-sold the products at higher prices to U.S. customers.

    Following an 11-day trial, the jury found the defendants guilty of eight of 11 counts that went to the jury. Adriana and Andres Camberos were both found guilty of conspiracy to commit wire and mail fraud and seven wire fraud counts, and not guilty of three mail fraud counts.

    According to evidence presented at trial, the defendants owned and controlled three businesses: Tradeway International, Inc., doing business as Baja Exporting (owned by Adriana Camberos); Specialty Foods International, Inc., doing business as Promix Co., Prison Food Depot, Rehab Food Depot and Specialty Foods International (owned by Andres Camberos); and Baja Foodservice S.R.L. de C.V. (95% owned by Andres Camberos and managed by Adriana Camberos). Specialty Foods International and Baja Exporting shared a warehouse and office space in San Diego. Baja Foodservice had a warehouse in Tijuana. All three operated together, as sister companies.

    Baja Exporting claimed to be an exporter of grocery items and consumer goods to Baja California, Mexico. Similarly, Specialty Foods International, claimed to be a regional distributor of groceries and other goods to retailers in Baja California, Mexico, and to correctional facilities and rehabilitation and wellness facilities within the United States. Baja Foodservice likewise claimed to be a regional distributor in Baja California, Mexico.

    The defendants used the three companies—especially Baja Foodservice—to tell manufacturers that they would sell the manufacturers’ products in Mexico, and based on that, they received significant discounts for purported sales, distribution, and exporting to the Baja California market. The defendants also sought discounted goods for Specialty Foods International, d/b/a Prison Food Depot and Rehab Food Depot, based on the claim that they sold products to prisons and rehab facilities.

    But the defendants lied. In a years-long scheme, they used their three companies to get those lower prices from manufacturers and resell the products at higher prices to U.S. customers—often the same distributors the victim companies were already selling their products to. Between 2019 and September 2023 alone, Baja Exporting and Specialty Foods International sold hundreds of millions of dollars of products to U.S. distributors; less than a tenth of one percent of their sales were to any Mexican retailer or distributor, and they did no business with prisons or rehab centers.

    The defendants took other numerous steps to conceal and perpetuate their fraud. For example, the defendants removed GPS tracking devices from manufacturers’ shipments; removed Spanish-language labels or packaging intended for the Mexican market; obtained Mexican customs documents to try to prove to manufacturers that products were being exported; arranged “market visits” in Tijuana, taking manufacturers’ representatives to various stores in Baja California where they placed the manufacturers’ products—often alongside models who were hired by the defendants’ companies and associates—to create the appearance the products were being sold as promised; had a fake “office” in Mexico City to meet with manufacturers, in an effort to make the companies think the defendants did substantial business in Mexico; and otherwise doubled down on their lies when the victim companies suspected the defendants were diverting their products  and defrauding them.

    Baja Exporting and Specialty Foods International made over $58 million in gross profits between January 2019 and September 2023. As owners, the defendants made millions each. In the same time period, Adriana Camberos took in over $12 million from Baja Exporting, and Andres Camberos paid himself over $14 million from Specialty Foods International. This caused manufacturers to lose tens of millions of dollars—money they would have made in the normal course of selling to U.S. distributors, but for the defendants’ lies.

    With the money they made from the scheme, Adriana and Andres Camberos made extensive luxury purchases and investments. They bought or financed a Ferrari F12 Berlinetta, a Lamborghini Huracan, and multiple Range Rovers; purchased multiple homes in the San Diego area; purchased a condominium at the beach in Coronado; and put the money in multiple investment accounts, life insurance policies, a cryptocurrency account, and other assets. These and other items are subject to forfeiture.

    “These defendants’ deception led to millions in illegal profits, but the gain was fleeting,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “When this elaborate scheme unraveled, justice prevailed.”

    “The Camberos siblings built a multimillion-dollar empire solely on fraud,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge Stacey Moy. “This conviction should send a clear message that fraud — no matter the scale — will be thoroughly investigated and those found guilty of perpetrating such schemes will be brought to justice.”

    The defendants are scheduled to be sentenced on March 3, 2025, before U.S. District Judge Cynthia Bashant.

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Mellor, Peter Horn and Jordan Arakawa.

    DEFENDANTS                                             Case Number 23-CR-1916-BAS                            

    Adriana Isabel Camberos (aka Adriana Shayota)      Age: 54                       San Diego, CA

    Andres Enrique Camberos                                          Age: 45                       San Diego, CA

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Conspiracy to Commit Mail and Wire Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1349

    Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison

    Wire Fraud – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1343

    Maximum Penalty: Twenty years in prison

    INVESTIGATING AGENCY

    Federal Bureau of Investigation

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Distributor of ANOM Hardened Encrypted Devices Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Racketeering Conspiracy

    Source: US FBI

    SAN DIEGO – Osemah Elhassen of Sydney, Australia, was sentenced in federal court today to 63 months in prison for participating in a worldwide conspiracy to distribute hardened encrypted communication devices to criminal syndicates to facilitate drug trafficking and other crimes.

    Elhassen was one of 17 defendants indicted in San Diego in 2021 in connection with Operation Trojan Shield, an international law enforcement effort in which the FBI secretly operated an encrypted messaging network used by criminals, leading to the arrests of hundreds worldwide.

    According to court records, the platform was known as ANOM. While ANOM’s criminal users unknowingly communicated on the system operated by the FBI, agents catalogued more than 27 million messages between users around the world whose criminal discussions were covertly obtained and reviewed by the FBI. The platform was taken down in June 2021. Please see Operation Trojan Shield in 2021.

    Elhassen pleaded guilty in May 2024 to Count 1 of a superseding indictment charging him and the others with a racketeering conspiracy in connection with the ANOM enterprise. A citizen of Australia, Elhassen was a Colombia-based distributor of ANOM devices who was also directly involved in drug trafficking and money laundering.

    Elhassen admitted that around November 2019, he became a member of the ANOM enterprise. According to his plea agreement, he admitted to helping accomplish the illegal objectives of that enterprise, including drug trafficking, money laundering, and obstruction of justice offenses. To that end, Elhassen distributed ANOM devices to criminal end-users for over a year and a half, and in doing so, facilitated the importation, exportation, and distribution of at least 15 kilograms of cocaine and the laundering of proceeds from the enterprise’s illegal activities.

    According to the government’s sentencing filings, Elhassen’s ANOM messages show significant distribution of ANOM devices in Colombia and other places. His messages also show that Elhassen participated in providing ANOM device support and arranging subscription renewals, among other sales and price-setting activity.

    Elhassen was arrested in Colombia in June 2021 and was extradited to the Southern District of California in May 2023. He pleaded guilty in May 2024.

    “Despite use of sophisticated technology and extreme measures to conceal the criminal enterprise, Mr. Elhassen could not thwart federal investigators,” said U.S. Attorney Tara McGrath. “The sentence today demonstrates that even those who go to the greatest lengths to hide will be held to account.”

    “Evidence collected during Operation Trojan Shield showed that distributors of ANOM devices, like Mr. Elhassen, were not merely providing a messaging service but enabling and facilitating Transnational Criminal Organizations,” said FBI San Diego Special Agent in Charge, Stacey Moy. “Today’s sentence should send a strong message to the users and distributors of these types of devices. The FBI will continue to collaborate with domestic and international partners on new and innovative strategies to combat the ever-evolving threat posed by transnational criminal organizations.”

    This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua C. Mellor, Mikaela L. Weber, and Peter S. Horn. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs and the Narcotic and Dangerous Drug Section’s Judicial Attaché Office in Bogota provided significant assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of Elhassen. The United States also thanks Colombian law enforcement authorities for their valuable assistance.

    Three other defendants in this case have pleaded guilty, including Dragan Nikitovic, aka Dr. Djek; Edwin Harmendra Kumar, aka Edwin Harmendra Valentine; and Miwand Zakhimi, aka Maiwand Zakhimi. They are scheduled to be sentenced in December 2024 and January 2025. A trial for four other defendants is scheduled for March 10, 2025. Eight other defendants in the case are yet to be extradited to the United States, and one is a fugitive.

    For further information on investigations and prosecutions of encrypted communication providers, see https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/fbi-s-encrypted-phone-platform-infiltrated-hundreds-criminal-syndicates-result-massive (ANOM), https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/sky-global-executive-and-associate-indicted-providing-encrypted-communication-devices (Sky Global), and https://www.justice.gov/usao-sdca/pr/chief-executive-communications-company-sentenced-prison-providing-encryption-services (Phantom Secure).

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

    DEFENDANT                                               Case Number 21cr1623-JLS-17                                   

    Osemah Elhassen                                            Age: 51                                   Sydney, Australia

    SUMMARY OF CHARGES

    Count 1:  Racketeering Conspiracy – Title 18, U.S.C., Section 1962(d)

    Maximum penalty: Twenty years in prison, and fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gain or loss

    INVESTIGATING AGENCIES

    Federal Bureau of Investigation

    Drug Enforcement Administration

    United States Marshals Service

    Department of Justice, Office of International Affairs

    Australian Federal Police

    Swedish Police Authority

    Lithuanian Criminal Police Bureau

    National Police of the Netherlands

    EUROPOL                                                          

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Brentwood Man Arrested on Charges of Possession of 3D-Printed Machine Gun Conversion Device

    Source: US FBI

    OAKLAND – A Brentwood man has been charged with unlawful possession of a machine gun conversion device.  Noah Kanaye Bauer, 21, was arrested yesterday and made his initial appearance in federal district court in Oakland this morning.

    According to the criminal complaint and court documents unsealed today, on Sept. 6, 2024, officers with the Brentwood Police Department (BPD) responded to a call regarding an individual with a firearm at a grocery store in Brentwood and found Bauer with a 3D printed Glock style firearm.  Officers allegedly removed the firearm from the front of Bauer’s waistband and saw that there was no serial number on it.  In a search of Bauer’s home after his arrest for carrying a concealed weapon, BPD officers found a 3D printing machine, three 3D printed pistol frames, and a 3D printed machine gun conversion device in Bauer’s room.

    The complaint describes that machine gun conversion devices, also known as “switches” or “auto sears,” are designed and created for the purpose of converting a semi-automatic Glock type pistol into a fully automatic machine gun.  When BPD officers questioned Bauer on what the conversion devices were used for, Bauer allegedly stated, “to make it shoot faster.”

    Bauer is next scheduled to appear in court on March 17, 2025, for a detention hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Kandis A. Westmore.

    Acting United States Attorney Patrick D. Robbins and FBI Special Agent in Charge Sanjay Virmani made the announcement.

    Bauer is charged with one count of 18 U.S.C. § 922(o).  A complaint merely alleges that crimes have been committed, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt. If convicted, the defendant faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of $250,000.  Any sentence following conviction would be imposed by the court after consideration of the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and the federal statute governing the imposition of a sentence, 18 U.S.C. § 3553.

    The National Security and Special Prosecutions Section of the U.S. Attorney’s Office is prosecuting this case. The prosecution is the result of an investigation by the FBI with assistance from the BPD and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.

    Noah Kanaye Bauer Complaint
     

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Crowheart Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Prison for Sexual Abuse of a Minor

    Source: US FBI

    Quinlin James Hernandez, 32, of Crowheart, Wyoming, was sentenced to 300 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release for sexual abuse. Chief U.S. District Court Judge Scott W. Skavdahl imposed the sentence on March 5 in Casper.

    According to court documents, on April 13, 2024, a 14-year-old minor victim who had been reported missing was located at the residence of Hernandez. She was able to send a text to her grandmother to come pick her up at that location. During her forensic interview, she stated that Hernandez and several minors picked her up April 10, 2023, without the knowledge of her guardians. Hernandez drove to a liquor store, where he bought alcohol and then drove the minors to his residence in Crowheart. At the residence, all the minors and the defendant drank the alcohol. Hernandez began flirting with and making sexual advances toward the minor victim. The minor victim was at Hernandez’s residence for approximately two and a half days, during which Hernandez forced himself on the minor victim, sexually abusing her twice. The victim underwent a Sexual Assault Nurse Examination and Hernandez’s seminal fluid and DNA were confirmed to be on the victim’s clothing.  He was indicted on May 16, 2024.

    When interviewed, Hernandez denied sexually abusing the minor victim. However, when he entered his plea of guilty on December 13, 2024, he admitted that he had sex with the minor victim when she was too drunk to either consent or decline to have sex with him.

    The Bureau of Indian Affairs Wind River Police Department and the FBI investigated this crime. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kerry Jacobson prosecuted the case.

    This case was brought about by Project Safe Childhood (PSC), a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet and to identify and rescue victims.

    Case No. 24-CR-00087

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: Four Men Indicted on Kidnapping Charge

    Source: US FBI

    DENVER – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Colorado announces that Darwin Veliz-Gonzalez, Jose Daniel Pineda-Moreno, Jeffrerson Balza-Delfin, and Yender Enrique Campos-Malave were each indicted by a federal grand jury on one count for unlawfully seizing, confining, kidnapping, abducting and holding for ransom an unidentified victim.

    Balza-Delfin and Campos-Malave made their initial appearance in front of Magistrate Judge Cyrus Y. Chung today.  Veliz-Gonzalez and Pineda-Moreno are scheduled to appear at a later date.

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation Denver Field Office and the Denver Police Department are handling the investigation.  The prosecution is being handled by the Violent Crimes and Immigration Enforcement section of the United States Attorney’s Office.

    Case Number: 25-cr-00077-JLK

    MIL Security OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Security: FBI Warns of Fraudulent Federal Warrants in Wyoming

    Source: US FBI

    The FBI is warning of a scam in which people are presented with a fraudulent federal warrant and asked to pay fines to clear it up.

    In a recent case in Wyoming, the targeted victim received a copy of a warrant via text message, saying there was a warrant for her arrest because she failed to appear as a prospective juror.

    The warrant on the face appears to be a legitimate document, with a case number, date stamp, seal of the United States District Court for Wyoming and a judge’s signature. But this is a scam.

    A federal officer will serve a federal warrant in person, or you might receive it by certified mail. You will NEVER receive a copy of a federal warrant via regular U.S. mail, and especially not via email or via text.

    One victim in Wyoming followed instructions received via the scam text and lost more than $10,000.

    The FBI reminds the public to be vigilant and never share personal identifying information with a caller with whom you have not initiated contact or have not verified as legitimate. To check out someone who purports to be from the FBI, find the phone number of the local FBI field office and call that number directly. The field office will verify any legitimate contact.

    You can do the same with other federal law enforcement agencies.

    If you have questions about the validity of an arrest warrant, call the clerk of court for the court identified on the warrant. They can verify if the warrant is legitimate.

    Also know that no government agency at any level will ask you to pay in gift cards, gold, or cryptocurrency.

    If you think you have been a victim of this scam, report it at 1-800-CALL-FBI or tips.fbi.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Registered Sex Offender Charged with Sex Trafficking Children by Force

    Source: US FBI

    WASHINGTON – Linwood Barnhill, 59, a registered sex offender living in the District of Columbia, was arrested on May 1, 2025, and federally charged with sex trafficking children by force and related counts. The alleged offenses occurred between April 1, 2024, and April 29, 2025.

    The criminal complaint was announced today by U.S. Attorney Edward R. Martin Jr., FBI Special Agent in Chief Sean Ryan of the Washington Field Office Criminal and Cyber Division, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

    Barnhill, a former officer with the Metropolitan Police Department, is charged with sex trafficking by force, fraud, or coercion; sex trafficking of children; coercion and enticement; transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity; and interstate travel or transportation in aid of racketeering enterprises. According to the complaint, the defendant allegedly recruited a series of minor children to engage in commercial sex acts and financially profited from those commercial sex acts.

    This case is being investigated by FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Caroline Burrell.

    This case was brought as part of the Department of Justice’s Project Safe Childhood initiative. In February 2006, the Attorney General created Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Las Vegas Doctor Sentenced to Over Two Years in Prison for Unlawful Distribution of Opioid Medications

    Source: US FBI

    LAS VEGAS — A Las Vegas doctor was sentenced today by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to 27 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, and a fine of $75,000 for unlawfully distributing opioid pain medications without a medically legitimate purpose.

    “By prescribing medically unnecessary prescription medications in exchange for cash payments, the defendant put vulnerable patients at risk,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “The FBI will continue to work with our federal, state, and local partners to find and investigate practitioners in the medical community who target and victimize vulnerable populations.”

    According to court documents, Dr. William Alvear (69) unlawfully distributed Hydrocodone without a legitimate medical purpose and outside the usual course of professional practice. Instead, he prescribed opioids when a patient offered to pay him cash. In addition, Alvear unlawfully distributed and dispensed Alprazolam, common brand name Xanax. 

    Alprazolam is a Schedule IV controlled substance that also has the potential for abuse and can lead to psychological or physical dependence. Hydrocodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, has a high potential for abuse and can lead to severe psychological or physical dependence.

    In November 2023, following a six-day jury trial, Alvear was found guilty of three-counts of distributing a controlled substance – Schedule II and five-counts of distributing or dispensing a controlled substance – Schedule IV.

    United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Evans made the announcement.

    The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Las Vegas City Councilwoman Convicted in Charity Fraud Scheme

    Source: US FBI

    A federal jury in the District of Nevada convicted a former Las Vegas city councilwoman and gubernatorial candidate yesterday on one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and six counts of wire fraud for executing a scheme to defraud charitable donors by falsely claiming she was raising money to memorialize police officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.

    According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Michele Fiore, 54, of Pahrump, Nevada, while serving as a Las Vegas city councilwoman, solicited donors for money to build statues honoring two Las Vegas police officers who had been killed in the line of duty. The evidence at trial demonstrated that Fiore promised donors that “100% of the contributions” would be used towards the construction of memorials for the fallen officers. However, Fiore did not use any of the more than $70,000 in charitable donations she raised for the memorials. Instead, Fiore spent the money donated by the victims on a variety of personal and political expenses, including political fundraising bills, personal rent payments, and payments to family members.

    Fiore is scheduled to be sentenced on Jan. 6, 2025, and faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in prison on each count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.

    Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Nicole M. Argentieri, head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office made the announcement.

    The FBI Las Vegas Field Office investigated the case.

    Trial Attorneys Dahoud Askar and Alexander Gottfried and paralegal specialist Heather DePremio of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section are prosecuting the case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada provided substantial assistance.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Las Vegas Man Indicted for Cyberstalking Via Social Media

    Source: US FBI

    LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident made his initial appearance Tuesday for allegedly sending thousands of messages, including threatening messages, via Instagram to two employees of the University of Texas at Austin.

    According to allegations contained in the indictment, beginning on or about June 6, 2024 to September 16, 2024, Brian Patrick Solomon, 38, sent direct messages threatening to injure two high level employees of the school. In May and June of 2024, Solomon requested a total of $450 via CashApp from a victim. A records check of Solomon revealed that on July 26, 2023, he was arrested in Austin for burglary of vehicle and criminal mischief; and on February 27, 2024,

    Solomon was arrested in Nevada for stalking. As a result, a protection order was entered against Solomon. In July 2024, one victim attended the ESPYs and was scheduled for a speaking engagement. Solomon communicated to the victim that he had purchased a ticket for the event. While the event revoked his ticket due to safety concerns, the victim paid out of pocket to hire security.

    On September 16, 2024, the FBI arrested Solomon. After he was advised of his Miranda rights, Solomon admitted that he used multiple Instagram accounts to send a few thousand direct messages to the victim and that he had become angry with her. Additionally, Solomon admitted he had requested money from the victim to travel to the victim, and he had previously traveled via airplane to Austin.

    A jury trial has been scheduled for December 17, 2024, before United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey. Solomon is charged with one count of interstate communications with threat to injure and one count of cyberstalking. If convicted, he faces the maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison.

    United States Attorney Jason M. Frierson for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.

    This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the University of Texas Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Strange is prosecuting the case.

    An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Alabama Man Convicted of Assaulting Law Enforcement and Other Charges During January 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: US FBI

                WASHINGTON – An Alabama man was convicted on May 10, 2024, of multiple felony and misdemeanor offenses, including assaulting law enforcement during the Jan. 6, 2021, breach of the U.S. Capitol. His actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.

                Bryan Shawn Smith, 37, of Huntsville, Alabama, was found guilty of civil disorder and assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers, both felony offenses, following a bench trial before U.S. District Judge Randolph D. Moss.

                In addition to the felonies, Judge Moss found Smith guilty of four misdemeanor offenses, including entering and remaining in a restricted building or grounds, disorderly and disruptive conduct in a restricted building or grounds, engaging in physical violence in a restricted building or grounds, and act of physical violence in the Capitol grounds or buildings.

                Judge Moss will sentence Smith on Aug. 20, 2024.

                According to court documents and evidence presented during the trial, Smith was present on the Lower West Terrace of the Capitol building on Jan. 6, 2021, and was captured on police body-worn camera footage at approximately 2:10 p.m. confronting officers at a security barricade in this area. As rioters breached the security barricades on the Lower West Terrace, a group of officers fell back behind a door underneath the inaugural stage scaffolding. About 45 seconds later, the door was opened, and Smith held the door open and refused an officer’s command to step away from the doorway to allow the officer to close it.

                Evidence at trial showed that Smith later made his way to the Lower West Terrace Tunnel, the site of some of the most violent attacks against law enforcement on January 6th. As he entered the Tunnel, Smith carried a stun gun. At approximately 2:53 p.m., Capitol building surveillance footage captured Smith spark the stun gun and pass it to another rioter in the Tunnel. Within approximately one minute, the stun gun was passed from the rioter who received it from Smith to another rioter and then to yet another rioter.

                Court documents say that Smith then exited the Tunnel quickly after passing off the stun gun and pumped his fist in an apparent effort to inspire others in the large crowd to press into the Tunnel and continue the riot. A rioter who later received the stun gun, Vitali Gossjankowski, later exited the Tunnel and used the stun gun in at least one attempt to assault an officer who was already under assault by other rioters.

                Smith entered the Tunnel a third time at approximately 3:16 p.m. and made his way to the front of the mob in the Tunnel. Inside the Tunnel, Smith joined a group of rioters violently pushing against the police line in an attempt to breach the Capitol. Here, Smith witnessed rioters physically assault police and helped push other rioters into the police line.

                The FBI arrested Smith on Dec. 4, 2022, in Huntsville.

                The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section prosecuted this case. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Alabama provided valuable assistance.

                The FBI’s Birmingham and Washington Field Offices investigated this case. The United States Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department provided valuable assistance.

                In the 40 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,424 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 500 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.

                Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.

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