NewzIntel.com

Category: Security Intelligence

  • MIL-OSI Security: Clay County Convicted Felon Sentenced To Federal Prison On Firearm Charge

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Anthony Rodriguez, Jr. (32, Orange Park) to 21 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Rodriguez was arrested on July 9, 2024, and ordered detained.   

    According to court records, on May 11, 2024, Rodriguez shoplifted merchandise from a Wal-Mart in Clay County. Wal-Mart personnel stopped Rodriguez and the Clay County Sheriff’s Office (CCSO) subsequently responded. As the CCSO searched Rodriguez during his arrest, a loaded Glock 43 9mm pistol fell to the ground from Rodriguez’s clothing. At the time of the incident, Rodriguez had seven previous felony convictions, including two convictions involving a firearm and ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.

    This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives – Jacksonville Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Mississippi Man Pleads Guilty To Transporting Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Jonathan Patrick Maston (59, Pass Christian, MS) has pleaded guilty to transportation of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Maston faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is set for March 6, 2025.

    According to the plea agreement, in April 2022, Maston arrived in Port Canaveral, returning from an international cruise. As he was disembarking the ship, Maston was referred for a secondary inspection. A search of his cellphone revealed CSAM images and videos. During an interview with law enforcement agents, Maston admitted to viewing CSAM over the last 15 years. A search warrant was also executed on Maston’s iCloud account, which revealed additional CSAM. In total, the contents of Maston’s cellphone and iCloud account contained more than 1,000 CSAM images and videos.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Customs and Border Protection. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Lake County Woman Pleads Guilty To Multi-Kilogram Drug Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Roger B. Handberg announces that Tonya Lynn Romero (37, Okahumpka) has pleaded guilty to possessing methamphetamine with intent to distribute it. Romero faces a minimum penalty of 5 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison. A sentencing hearing is set for April 10, 2025.

    According to the plea agreement, law enforcement conducted a narcotics interdiction operation at the Orlando International Airport, which resulted in a canine alerting to the presence of drugs in a suitcase that had been checked in Romero’s name. After Romero took possession of the luggage, law enforcement approached, and she provided consent to search the suitcase. Inside, law enforcement located over 13 kilograms of methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Orlando Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Brevard County Man Sentenced To More Than 16 Years For Distributing Multiple Kilograms Of Methamphetamine

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron has sentenced Joseph Michael Schneider (58, Cocoa) to 16 years and 8 months in federal prison for possessing controlled substances with intent to distribute them. Schneider pleaded guilty on August 14, 2024. 

    According to the plea agreement, law enforcement used a confidential source and undercover agent to conduct three controlled purchases of approximately 900 grams of methamphetamine each from Schneider, which took place at his residence. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at that residence, which resulted in the recovery of multiple kilograms of methamphetamine, over 100 grams of cocaine, and a small quantity of a fentanyl analog. In total, Schneider was responsible for distributing and possessing with intent to distribute over 7 kilograms of methamphetamine.

    This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Brevard County Sherriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Exeter Man on Federal Supervised Release Detained on Multiple Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    PROVIDENCE, RI – An Exeter man, currently serving a term of federal supervised release related to his previous convictions for possession of stolen mail and bank fraud, has been ordered detained on federal charges brough this week after he was allegedly discovered to be in possession of stolen checks, various items used for fishing mail out of mail receptacles, supplies to alter or deface checks, and unlawful possession of ammunition, announced United States Attorney Zachary A. Cunha.

    Edmilson Rodrigues, 26, is charged by way of a federal criminal complaint with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, bank fraud, possession of stolen mail, and being a felon in possession of ammunition.

    It is alleged in charging documents that on December 17, 2024, during a court-authorized search of Rodrigues’ home, law enforcement seized approximately fifty stolen business and personal checks valued at approximately $36,000; hundreds of sheets of blank check paper; a check washing basin and cleaning materials used to deface and alter checks; a laptop and printer; and various items used to fish mail from U.S. Postal Service receptacles, such as mousetraps, glue, and string; and ammunition.

    According to court records, Rodrigues was convicted in U.S. District Court in 2019 for conspiracy to commit bank fraud and bank fraud involving a counterfeit check scheme; and in 2023 for possession of stolen mail that involved possession of nearly 100 stolen and fraudulent checks worth nearly $100,000.

    The most recent charges filed against Rodrigues are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S Attorney Ly T. Chin. A federal criminal complaint is merely an accusation. A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

    The matter was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, with the assistance of the Newport Police Department, Providence Police Department, and Pawtucket Police Department.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Former Marine Sentenced to 12 Years for Child Sexual Abuse Material

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    RALEIGH, N.C. – A former marine was sentenced to 144 months imprisonment followed by 5 years of supervised release, and $273,000 in restitution to 29 victims, for receipt of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). 

    According to court documents and other information presented in court, Paul Anthony Reyes, 23, was investigated by the investigated by the Naval Criminal Investigative Services after Instagram reported to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children that one of its users had uploaded contraband to its platform.  The IP address used to upload the illegal content was linked to Reyes who was an active duty Marine stationed at U.S. Marine Corps Air Station in Cherry Point.

    NCIS agents executed a search warrant on the Instagram account which revealed Reyes was willing to trade and distribute child pornography material to other Instagram users.  Subsequently, NCIS executed a search warrant on Reyes’ person and barracks.  Multiple digital devices were seized and forensically analyzed pursuant to the search warrant.

    On those devices, law enforcement found thousands of images and videos of child pornography.  Many of them depicted sadistic and masochistic conduct.  Reyes possessed multiple images and videos depicting the rape and abuse of infants and toddlers.

    Michael F. Easley, Jr., U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of North Carolina made the announcement after the sentencing was concluded.  U.S. District Judge Terrence W. Boyle presided over the sentencing.  The Naval Criminal Investigative Services investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Charity Wilson prosecuted the case.

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

    Related court documents and information can be found on the website of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina or on PACER by searching for Case No. 4:24-CR-1-BO.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Federal Jury Convicts Wagoner County Resident of Eight Counts of Child Sexual Abuse

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced today that Richard Leroy Osborn III, age 47, of Wagoner County, Oklahoma, was found guilty by a federal jury of eight counts of child sexual abuse, including five counts of Aggravated Sexual Abuse and three counts of Abusive Sexual Contact.  Two of the counts of conviction carry a mandatory sentence of life in prison.

    The jury trial began with testimony on December 9, 2024, and concluded on December 11, 2024, with the guilty verdicts.

    During the trial, the United States presented evidence that Osborn sexually assaulted three children starting in 2011 and continuing until May of 2022, when one of the children first disclosed the sexual abuse.  Additionally, the United States presented evidence that Osborn, already a registered sex offender at the time of the crimes, had previously sexually abused three other victims when they were minors.

    The guilty verdicts were the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    The crimes occurred in Wagoner County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee and the Muscogee (Creek) Nation Reservations, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The Honorable Kea W. Riggs, U.S. District Judge in the United States District Court of New Mexico, sitting by assignment, presided over the trial in Muskogee, Oklahoma, and ordered the completion of a presentence report.  Sentencing will be scheduled following completion of the report.  Osborn will remain in the custody of the United States Marshals Service until sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Morgan Muzljakovich and Nicole Paladino represented the United States.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Wagoner Resident Pleads Guilty to Child Neglect

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Salasha Fae Bosley, age 25, of Wagoner, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to two counts of Child Neglect in Indian Country.

    The Indictment alleged that between September 2023 and June 16, 2024, Bosley failed to provide two children with adequate nurturance, affection, food, shelter, sanitation, hygiene, medical care, supervision, and sanitary living conditions while responsible for the health, safety, and welfare of the children.

    The crimes occurred in Wagoner County, within the boundaries of the Cherokee Nation Reservation, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the Wagoner County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    The Honorable D. Edward Snow, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Bove and Caila M. Cleary represented the United States.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Moore Resident Pleads Guilty to Federal Drug and Firearm Charges

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime Alerts (c)

    MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma announced that Charles Daniel Tow, age 34, of Moore, Oklahoma, entered a guilty plea to one count of Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and one count of Felon in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition.

    The Indictment alleged that on June 6, 2024, Tow knowingly and intentionally possessed 40 or more grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, for the purpose of distribution.  The Indictment also alleged that on that same date, Tow knowingly possessed a .380ACP caliber semi-automatic pistol and eight rounds of .380ACP caliber ammunition after having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, despite knowing of that conviction.

    The charges arose from an investigation by the District 27 Drug Task Force and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

    The Honorable Jason A. Robertson, U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, accepted the plea and ordered the completion of a presentence investigation report. Tow will remain in the custody of the U. S. Marshals Service pending sentencing.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Lorenz represented the United States.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Rantoul Man Convicted of Bank Robbery

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Urbana, Ill. – A federal jury returned a guilty verdict on December 11, 2024, against Troy Burke, 40, of Rantoul, Illinois, for bank robbery. Sentencing for Burke has been scheduled for May 2, 2025, at 2:30 p.m. at the U.S. Courthouse in Urbana, Illinois

    During the two-day trial, the government presented evidence that on June 20, 2024, Burke walked into the Community Plus Federal Credit Union in Rantoul, Illinois indicating to the teller that he had a gun. He proceeded to remove the plastic partition separating the teller from the customer and threatened to hit her with it. Burke left the bank with more than $9,000 in cash and a GPS device the teller had secured in the stack of currency. Burke was stopped by Rantoul police a few blocks from the Credit Union and was found to be in possession of more than $9,000 cash and the GPS device from the bank.

    Burke was arrested on June 20, 2024, and remains in the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service pending sentencing. 

    Statutory penalties for bank robbery are up to twenty years imprisonment, up to 3 years of supervised release, and a fine of up to $250,000.

    The case investigation was conducted by the Rantoul Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Springfield Field Office. Timothy Sullivan and Bryan Freres represented the government at trial. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Happy Valley-Goose Bay — Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP investigates theft at Woodward’s C-Store, seeks assistance identifying suspects

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP is investigating a recent theft of merchandise from Woodward’s C-Store in Happy Valley-Goose Bay. Police are seeking assistance from the public to identify two suspects.

    Shortly after 10:00 p.m. on December 18, 2024, a man wearing a hood over his head and a pair of sunglasses entered the Tenth Street store while a woman with her hood up held the door open. The man gathered some items from the store and ran out the open door with the woman following behind him. Efforts to locate the two were unsuccessful. Images of the two suspects are attached.

    The investigation is continuing.

    Anyone having information about this crime or the identity of the two suspects is asked to contact Happy Valley-Goose Bay RCMP at 709-896-3833 or, to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Nationwide Lawsuit Filed in Rhode Island Alleging CVS Knowingly Dispensed Controlled Substances in Violation of the Controlled Substances Act and the False Claims Act

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    PROVIDENCE, RI – In a civil complaint unsealed today in federal court in Providence, Rhode Island, the Justice Department alleges that CVS Pharmacy, Inc., and various subsidiaries (collectively, CVS) filled unlawful prescriptions in violation of the Controlled Substances Act (CSA) and sought reimbursement from federal healthcare programs for some of the unlawful prescriptions in violation of the False Claims Act (FCA). CVS is the country’s largest pharmacy chain, with more than 9,000 pharmacies across the United States.

    The government’s complaint alleges that, from October 17, 2013, to the present, CVS knowingly filled prescriptions for controlled substances that lacked a legitimate medical purpose, were not valid, and/or were not issued in the usual course of professional practice. Among the large quantities of unlawful prescriptions that CVS allegedly filled were prescriptions for dangerous and excessive quantities of opioids, early fills of opioids, and “trinity” prescriptions, an especially dangerous and abused combination of drugs made up of an opioid, a benzodiazepine, and a muscle relaxant. CVS also allegedly filled large quantities of prescriptions for controlled substances written by prescribers it knew to be engaged in “pill mill practices” – that is, prescribers who issue large numbers of controlled substance prescriptions without any medical purpose. According to the complaint, CVS ignored substantial evidence from multiple sources, including its own pharmacists and internal data, indicating that its stores were dispensing unlawful prescriptions. 

    The complaint alleges that CVS’s violations resulted from corporate-mandated performance metrics, incentive compensation, and staffing policies that prioritized corporate profits over patient safety. CVS set staffing levels far too low for pharmacists to both meet their performance metrics and comply with their legal obligations. CVS also allegedly deprived its pharmacists of crucial information (including by, for example, preventing pharmacists from warning one another about certain prescribers) that could have reduced the number of unlawful prescriptions filled. The complaint alleges that CVS’s actions helped to fuel the prescription opioid crisis and that, in some particularly tragic instances, patients died after overdosing on opioids shortly after filling unlawful prescriptions at CVS.

    “Opioid deaths remain a scourge on communities across Rhode Island and the nation, robbing families of loved ones and leaving a path of devastation in their wake,” said Zachary A. Cunha, U.S. Attorney for the District of Rhode Island. “This lawsuit alleges that CVS failed to exercise its critical role as gatekeeper of dangerous prescription opioids and, instead, facilitated the illegal distribution of these highly addictive drugs, including by pill mill prescribers. When corporations such as CVS prize profits over patient safety and overburden their pharmacy staff so that they cannot carry out the basic responsibility of ensuring that prescriptions are legitimate, we will use every tool at our disposal to see that they answer for it.”

    “Our complaint alleges that CVS repeatedly filled controlled substance prescriptions that were unlawful and pressured its pharmacists to fill such prescriptions without taking the time needed to confirm their validity,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The practices alleged contributed to the opioid crisis and opioid-related deaths, and today’s complaint seeks to hold CVS accountable for its misconduct.”

    The government alleges that by knowingly filling unlawful prescriptions for controlled substances, CVS violated the CSA and, where CVS sought reimbursement from federal healthcare programs, also violated the FCA. The complaint alleges that CVS’s actions helped to fuel the prescription opioid crisis. If CVS is found liable, it could face civil penalties for each unlawful prescription filled in violation of the CSA and treble damages and applicable penalties for each prescription reimbursed by federal healthcare programs in violation of the FCA. The court also may award injunctive relief to prevent CVS from committing further CSA violations, including ordering appropriate changes to corporate compliance programs and policies.

    “When lives are destroyed or lost to opioid abuse, it doesn’t matter if the supplier is a street-level dealer, a pill mill, or a nationwide corporation,” said Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia. “Our laws regarding the distribution of opioids and other controlled substances are clear and apply to everyone. We will pursue whatever legal action is necessary to stop any enterprise, regardless of size, that places profit over the safety of our citizens.”

    “CVS is alleged to have dispensed large amounts of highly addictive opioid medications to persons they knew had no medical need for them. Simply put, they put profits over their obligation to keep their customers safe,” said DEA Administrator Anne Milgram. “A pharmacy is the final step in the pharmaceutical distribution process that is in place to keep customers safe. In the fight against the opioid epidemic, DEA will continue to be relentless in holding those accountable who violate our drug laws and place our communities in danger whether they are a criminal cartel or large pharmacy chain.”

    “Pharmacies and pharmacists are critical partners to ensure controlled substances are dispensed lawfully and safely to the public,” said Deputy Inspector General Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG is committed to holding individuals and entities that dispense these controlled substances improperly and without legitimate medical purpose accountable.”

    “Protecting TRICARE, the healthcare system for military members and their dependents, is a top priority for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS),” stated Special Agent in Charge Patrick J. Hegarty, DCIS Northeast Field Office. “Today’s filing demonstrates DCIS’ ongoing commitment to partner with the Department of Justice and our law enforcement partners to investigate health care providers that submit false claims to TRICARE and put its beneficiaries at risk.”

    Whistleblower Hillary Estright, who previously worked for CVS, filed an action on October 17, 2019, under the qui tam provisions of the FCA. Those provisions authorize private parties to sue on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in any recovery. The Act permits the United States to intervene and take over such lawsuits, as it has done here.

    The case is captioned United States ex rel. Estright v. Health Corporation, et al., No. 1:22-cv-222 (D.R.I.).

    The United States’ intervention in this matter underscores the government’s commitment to combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS, at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).

    The United States’ enforcement action is being litigated by attorneys from the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Rhode Island (First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sara M. Bloom and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Love Hubbard and Rachna Vyas), the Justice Department Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch (Assistant Directors Amy L. DeLine and C.B. Buente, Senior Litigation Counsel Donald Lorenzen, and Trial Attorneys Benjamin Cornfeld and Amanda K. Kelly) and Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section (Trial Attorneys Claire L. Norsetter, Joshua Barron, and Megan F. Engel), as well as the Eastern District of Virginia (Assistant U.S. Attorneys Clare Wuerker and John Beerbower), the District of Hawaii (Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sydney Spector and Tracy Weinstein), and the Eastern District of Texas (Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Gillingham and Adrian Garcia).

    The DEA’s Office of Diversion Control, Washington, D.C. Field Division, HHS-OIG, and DCIS conducted the investigation. Several other offices provided substantial assistance in the investigation, including the United States Attorneys’ Offices for the Southern District of California, the Northern District of Ohio, DEA’s Office of Chief Counsel, DEA’s Office of Diversion Control, Los Angeles Field Division, the Office of Personnel Management, the Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, United States Postal Service Office of Inspector General, and the FBI.

    The claims asserted against the defendants are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Cornwall — Tools and drugs seized in theft investigation

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    On December 18th, 2024, Stratford RCMP received a complaint from a local business of stolen power tools valued at over $1500. RCMP later arrested a 31-year-old man and seized the tools, cocaine and methamphetamine in the process.

    On December 20th, 2024, the Queens District RCMP, with the assistance of the RCMP Major Crime Unit and the RCMP Provincial General Investigation Section arrested a 31-year-old man in Cornwall for possession of property obtained by crime and trafficking property obtained by crime in connection to the stolen tools. In the process of the arrest, police seized stolen power tools, and small quantities of cocaine, and methamphetamine. The man will appear in Provincial Court on February 3rd, 2025, to answer charges concerning this ongoing investigation.

    “This investigation demonstrates that thefts in Island communities can often be directly linked to drugs and it demonstrates the importance of a coordinated law enforcement approach to help make all our communities safer” said Cpl Gavin Moore the Media Relations Officer for the PEI RCMP.

    If you have information about stolen property or drugs, call your local police detachment or call Crime Stoppers at 1800-222-(TIPS) 8477.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Russian National Assisted Sanctioned Oligarch in Schemes to Employ an American Citizen to Launch and Operate Russian Television Network

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    Defendant Also Helped Oligarch Illegally Transfer a $10 Million U.S. Investment to Business Associate

    Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Menno Goedman, the Co-Director of Task Force KleptoCapture, and James E. Dennehy, the Assistant Director in Charge of the New York Office of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”), announced today the unsealing of a Superseding Indictment charging ALEXEY KOMOV with conspiracy and violations of U.S. sanctions arising from his assistance to sanctioned Russian oligarch KONSTANTIN MALOFEYEV, who was previously charged in April 2022.  As alleged, KOMOV conspired with MALOFEYEV to recruit and employ an American citizen, Jack Hanick, who worked for MALOFEYEV in launching and operating a television network in Russia.  KOMOV also conspired with MALOFEYEV, Hanick, and others to illegally transfer a $10 million investment that MALOFEYEV had made in a U.S. bank to a business associate in Greece, in violation of the sanctions blocking MALOFEYEV’s assets from being transferred. 

    U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: “As alleged, Alexey Komov facilitated the efforts of Konstantin Malofeyev – an oligarch closely tied to Russian aggression in Ukraine who has been determined by OFAC to have been one of the main sources of financing for the promotion of Russia-aligned separatist groups operating in the sovereign nation of Ukraine – to flout U.S. sanctions.  The unsealing today of the Indictment against Komov is yet another reminder that this Office will continue to hold those accountable that seek to undermine the United States’ national security goals.”

    KleptoCapture Co-Director Menno Goedman said: “The indictment alleges Alexey Komov played an essential role in a multi-faceted scheme to violate and evade U.S. sanctions imposed on a significant financier of Russian aggression in Ukraine.  Task Force KleptoCapture will continue to disrupt schemes perpetrated by Komov and other sanction evaders, whenever and wherever they may hide.”

    FBI Assistant Director in Charge James E. Dennehy said: “Alexey Komov, a Russian national, allegedly conspired with an American citizen and a sanctioned Russian oligarch to develop a Russian cable network to promote anti-Western propaganda. This alleged conspiracy violated laws designed to protect the national security of the United States and our allies. The FBI remains committed to apprehending foreign nationals who employ our citizens to satisfy their odious agenda.”

    According to the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:[1]

    In 2014, the President issued Executive Order 13660, which declared a national emergency with respect to the situation in Ukraine.  To address this national emergency, the President blocked all property and interest in property that came within the U.S. or the possession or control of any U.S. person, of individuals determined by the Secretary of the Treasury to be responsible for or complicit in, or who engaged in, actions or policies that threatened the peace, security, stability, sovereignty, or territorial integrity of Ukraine, or who materially assist, sponsor, or provide financial, material, or technological support for, or goods and services to, individuals or entities engaging in such activities.  Executive Order 13660, along with certain regulations issued pursuant to it (the “Ukraine-Related Sanctions Regulations”) prohibits, among other things, making or receiving any funds, goods, or services by, to, from, or for the benefit of any person whose property and interests in property are blocked.

    On December 19, 2014, the Department of Treasury’s Office of Foreign Assets Control (“OFAC”) designated MALOFEYEV as a Specially Designated National (“SDN”) pursuant to Executive Order 13660.  OFAC’s designation of MALOFEYEV explained that he was one of the main sources of financing for Russians promoting separatism in Crimea, and has materially assisted, sponsored, and provided financial, material, or technological support for, or goods and services to or in support of the so-called Donetsk People’s Republic, a separatist organization in the Ukrainian region of Donetsk.

    As alleged in the Indictment, beginning in at least 2012, KOMOV assisted MALOFEYEV in recruiting and hiring a U.S. citizen named Jack Hanick to work on a new Russian cable television news network (the “Russian TV Network”) that MALOFEYEV was creating.  As part of KOMOV’s recruitment of Hanick, KOMOV travelled to Manhattan to meet with Hanick and subsequently introduced Hanick to MALOFEYEV in Russia.  With KOMOV’s knowledge, MALOFEYEV negotiated directly with Hanick regarding Hanick’s salary, payment for Hanick’s housing in Moscow, and Hanick’s Russian work visa.  MALOFEYEV paid Hanick through two separate Russian entities through the end of 2018.

    After OFAC designated MALOFEYEV as a SDN in December 2014, MALOFEYEV continued to employ Hanick on the Russian TV Network, with KOMOV’s assistance and input, and in violation of the Ukraine-Related Sanctions Regulations.  For example, prior to the launch of the Russian TV Network on the air in Russia in April 2015, KOMOV wrote an e-mail to MALOFEYEV, Hanick, and another employee, referencing their prior discussion with MALOFEYEV earlier that day and instructing Hanick to create two types of programs and allocate staff. KOMOV further wrote, “Hopefully Konstantin will be providing general direction and guidance for both projects. Looking forward to our long-term co-operation on those exciting endeavors!”  In turn, Hanick requested KOMOV to serve as a moderator for the first broadcast, writing “KM [i.e. MALOFEYEV] and I agree that we need you on this the first show on [the Russian TV Network]!!!”

    With KOMOV’s participation, MALOFEYEV also employed Hanick to assist MALOFEYEV in transferring a shell company that MALOFEYEV owned to a Greek associate of MALOFEYEV (the “Greek Business Associate”).  In 2014, MALOFEYEV, assisted by KOMOV, had used the shell company to make a $10 million investment in a Texas-based bank holding company (the “Texas Bank”).  KOMOV helped set up the deal, emailing a Texas-based attorney (“Individiual-1”), “I plan to come to the US with two of my close friends Konstantin Malofeev [sic] and [another individual] on Feb 4-9, 2014 . . . I’d like the three of us to meet with you to discuss our cooperation, and also joint investment projects (please propose attractive investment opportunities with reliable partners for $50-100 mln participation from our side)”. On or about March 25, 2014, KOMOV wrote to Individual-I, “Konstantin has confirmed today that he goes ahead with the 10 mln investment in the bank project.”

    Beginning in or about March 2015, with KOMOV’s assistance, MALOFEYEV began making plans to transfer ownership of the shell company to the Greek Business Associate, in violation of the Ukraine-Related Sanctions Regulations.  On or about March 4, 2015, KOMOV wrote to Individual-1, “I need to discuss with you several things: previous investment in the bank project (we want to consider selling it)”.  On or about March 17, 2015, KOMOV wrote to Individual-I about the Texas Bank interest, in part, “We want to keep it where it is now, only the owner from our side changes.”  Consistent with that plan, in or about May 2015, MALOFEYEV’s attorney drafted a Sale and Purchase Agreement that purported to transfer the shell company to the Greek Business Associate in exchange for one U.S. dollar.  In June 2015 MALOFEYEV had Hanick physically transport a copy of MALOFEYEV’s certificate of shares in the Texas Bank from Moscow to Athens to be given to the Greek Business Associate.  MALOFEYEV signed the Sale and Purchase Agreement in June 2015, but the agreement was fraudulently backdated to July 2014 to make it appear that the transfer had taken place prior to the imposition of U.S. sanctions.  MALOFEYEV’s attorney then falsely represented to the Texas Bank that the transfer had taken place in July 2014, even though MALOFEYEV and his attorney well knew that the transfer of the shell company was executed in June 2015.

    The U.S. seized and forfeited approximately $5.4 million in the property traceable to MALOFEYEV’s Texas Bank investment, which had been converted by the Texas Bank in 2016 to cash held in a blocked U.S. bank account.  In February 2023, the U.S. Attorney General authorized a transfer of these forfeited funds to the State Department to support Ukrainian veterans.

    MALOFEYEV, of Russia, is believed to be in Russia and remains at large.

    *                *                *

    KOMOV, 53, a Russian national, is charged with conspiracy to violate and substantive violation of International Emergency Economic Powers Act, each of which carry a maximum potential sentence of 20 years in prison.

    The maximum potential sentences in this case are prescribed by Congress and provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the judge.

    Mr. Williams praised the outstanding investigative work of the FBI and thanked the support and expertise of the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and Office of International Affairs in the conduct of this matter.

    The prosecution is being handled by the Office’s Illicit Finance and Money Laundering Unit.  Assistant U.S. Attorneys Vladislav Vainberg, Thane Rehn, Jessica Greenwood, and Trial Attorney Scott Claffee of the National Security Division’s Counterintelligence and Export Section are in charge of the prosecution. 
     

    [1] The entirety of the text of the Indictment, and the description of the Indictment set forth herein, constitute only allegations, and every fact described should be treated as an allegation.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Five Men From Grand Strand and Pee Dee Region Sentenced for Fentanyl Trafficking and Related Gun Crimes

    Source: Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) State Crime News

    FLORENCE, S.C. — Five men from across the Pee Dee and Grand Strand were sentenced to multi-year terms in federal prison after pleading guilty to a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy operating in and around Horry County and related firearms crimes.

    • Joshua Rodriguez, 33, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to 151 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
    • Derrick Adrien Hooks, Jr., 27, of Chesterfield, was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
    • Christopher Brown, 32, of Pawleys Island, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
    • Jonathan Thien Ta, 32, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to 50 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearm and ammunition; Ta’s federal sentence will run consecutive to a state sentence he is serving on separate firearms-related conduct; and
    • Neil Alexander Torres, 32, of Myrtle Beach, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of firearm and ammunition.

    Rodriguez and Brown’s terms of imprisonment will be followed by a five-year term of court-ordered supervision. Hook’s term of imprisonment will be followed by a four-year term of court-ordered supervision. Ta and Torres’s terms of imprisonment will be followed by three-year terms of court-ordered supervision.  There is no parole in the federal system.

    As to Ta and Torres, evidence presented to the court showed that on Nov. 26, 2020, officers with Myrtle Beach Police Department arrived at a restaurant in Myrtle Beach with a warrant to arrest Ta. Officers tried to take Ta into custody, but Ta disobeyed law enforcement commands, reaching into his waistband and pulling out a loaded 9mm handgun, which he passed to Torres before Ta attempted to flee on foot. At the time of the incident, both Ta and Torres were convicted felons who could not legally possess either the firearm or the ammunition with which it was loaded.

    Additional evidence presented to the court showed that from 2018 to 2023, Rodriguez, Hooks, and Brown were involved in trafficking pressed pills containing fentanyl in and around Horry County. Fentanyl is potentially lethal in very small doses.

    Rodriguez, who was a high-level distributor, was accountable for distributing some 14 kilograms of fentanyl over the course of the conspiracy. He frequently possessed firearms in connection with his drug trafficking and threatened to use violence against others.

    On July 1, 2021, law enforcement in Horry County attempted to conduct a traffic stop on a car driven and solely occupied by Hooks. Hooks fled from officers and threw pills and suspected marijuana out of the car during the ensuing chase. Law enforcement then obtained a search warrant for the home in Little River Hooks had come from just prior to the traffic stop. In Hooks’ room at the house, law enforcement found approximately 3.5 kilogram of pills, multiple kilograms of suspected marijuana, a 5.56 caliber firearm, assorted magazines, and ammunition and more than $10,000 in cash. Further investigation revealed that over the course of his involvement in the conspiracy, Hooks was accountable for trafficking 1.6 kilograms of fentanyl.

    Investigation showed Brown was involved as a lower-level distributor within the conspiracy. In approximately five years, Brown was accountable for trafficking 2.7 kilograms of fentanyl. Like Hooks, Brown had a history of fleeing from law enforcement. In 2023, Georgetown County Sheriff’s Office attempted to stop a vehicle driven by Brown in Pawleys Island. Brown fled, reaching speeds of 91 miles per hour while trying to evade law enforcement.

    United States District Judge Joseph Dawson, III, sentenced all five men.

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

    This case was investigated by the FBI Columbia Field Office, Myrtle Beach Police Department, Horry County Police Department, Horry County Sheriff’s Office, and the 15th Circuit Drug Enforcement Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Flynn is prosecuting the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Two-Time Convicted Felon Sentenced to Over 11 Years in Prison for Drug and Firearm Charges

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Lynn man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for drug and firearm charges.

    Jose Perez, 27, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge F. Dennis Saylor to 142 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In August 2024, Perez was convicted after a five day jury trial of one count of conspiracy to distribute and to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and one count of felon in possession of a firearm. In January 2023, Perez was arrested and charged along with co-defendant Henry Del Rio.

    In December 2022, police officers attempted to stop a vehicle speeding through Lexington, Mass. that Perez was driving. Instead of pulling over, Perez accelerated and engaged in a high-speed escape attempt, traveling more than 85 miles per hour on residential streets, crashing head-first into another vehicle, and ultimately losing control and colliding into a post. As Perez exited the vehicle, a loaded Glock 34X 9mm semi-automatic handgun dropped to the ground. Perez and Del Rio, his passenger, then fled and led officers on a foot chase through a Stop and Shop parking lot. After officers apprehended Perez and Del Rio, Perez was found with over $2,000 cash in his pockets.  Officers also recovered a bag of cocaine and a bag containing 44 smaller, individually wrapped bags of fentanyl in Del Rio’s flight path, as well as a bag of cocaine in the vehicle Perez had crashed.

    At the time, Perez was on supervised release in connection with two prior federal convictions: one in 2017 for engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license, and one in 2020 for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances and felon in possession of a firearm.  Given Perez’s status as a felon, he is barred from possessing a firearm.

    In May 2024, Del Rio pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled sentences and is scheduled to be sentenced in January 2025.

    United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy and James M. Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Boston Field Division made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Lexington, Chelsea and MBTA Police Departments and Customs and Border Protection. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mike Crowley and Sarah Hoefle of the Organized Crime and Gang Unit prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Convicted felon admits to illegal firearms possession

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    HOUSTON – A 49-year-old Houston man has been convicted illegally possessing six firearms, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani. 

    Christopher Curry admitted he was a convicted felon and planned to exchange the guns for marijuana. 

    At the time of his arrest Oct. 17, authorities found him in possession of six firearms. In his vehicle were a shotgun, a pistol and several semiautomatic rifles. 

    Curry has three felony convictions to include two drug possessions and being a felon in possession of a firearm. As such, he is prohibited of possessing firearms or ammunition per federal law. 

    Senior U.S. District Judge Sim Lake accepted the plea and set sentencing for March 14, 2025. At that time he faces up to 15 years in federal prison as well as a possible $250,000 maximum fine. 

    He has been and will remain in custody pending that hearing. 

    The Houston Police Department Northeast Crime Suppression Team and the Department of Public Safety conducted the joint investigation with the assistance of the Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Crime Gun Strike Force.

    Assistant U.S. Attorney John Ganz is prosecuting the case. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Holiday Reminder on Federal Holiday Closures at NHB

    Source: United States Navy (Medical)

    Compiled by NHB/NMRTC Bremerton public affairs – With Christmas Eve officially declared as a federal holiday, the following adjustments will be in place at Naval Hospital Bremerton.

    NHB Urgent Care Clinic will be closed on the federal holidays of Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, Dec. 24 and 25, 2024.
    For those experiencing an actual life, limb or eyesight threatening emergency, call 911 or head to the nearest ER.
    The Nurse Advice Line is also available 24 hours a day, seven days a week to provide insight an guidance on dealing with many ailments. Nurse(s) on call will discuss concerns and provide recommendations for home treatment/care if applicable, and whether the issue should be addressed via an UCC or emergency department visit.
    The Nurse Advice Line’s toll-free number is 1 800 874 2273, and then select option one.

    NHB’s Pharmacy services at NHB, along with pharmacies at our branch health clinics on Naval Base Kitsap – Bangor and Naval Station Everett will [also] be closed on all federal holidays [Dec. 24-25, 2024].
    ScriptCenter is still available and open for all beneficiaries. The ScriptCenter Kiosk located in the “A” level parking garage lobby just before the elevator.
    Pickup is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
    Patients can use Q-Anywhere via phone to text the words ‘Get in line’ to 1-877-909-2512 or use the Q-Anywhere link https://cxmlink.com/MTF1152 to start the process.
    When you text in, just click on the secure weblink to start the process.
    Just follow the provided directions to select the pharmacy, add the patients, select the pickup location and the priority of service.
    Please ensure to include the information about what you want us to fill, otherwise we will just process any new prescriptions submitted within the past two weeks.

    Shuttle Update – the Naval Hospital Bremerton – Madigan Army Medical Center shuttle will not be running Dec. 24-25, 2024.
    We will provide full schedule on December 26 and 31, 2024, as well as January 2, 2025.
    The service operates Monday-Friday – except federal holidays – and departs NHB by the UCC entrance at 7 a.m., 10 a.m., 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. The shuttle leaves Madigan by the Main Medical Mall north entrance at 8:30 a.m., 11:30 a.m., 2:30 p.m. and 5:30 p.m.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Stanley — Cumberland County District RCMP make arrest for property crime and drug offences

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    Cumberland County District RCMP arrested a man for multiple property crime and drug offences after receiving information about a stolen dirt bike.

    On December 18, officers learned that a dirt bike previously reported stolen may be located in the Cumberland area. The information allowed investigators to conduct patrols in an attempt to locate the missing item.

    On December 19, officers from the Cumberland Integrated Street Crime Enforcement Unit (CISCEU) located the vehicle on Hwy. 204. When the dirt bike pulled over, officers were able to prevent the vehicle from continuing on and arrested the driver for Possession of Property Obtained by Crime.

    During a search incidental to arrest, the officers found that the man, who was identified as 32-year-old Jesse Parlee from Moncton, New Brunswick, was also in possession of multiple stolen drivers licences and cheques, a variety of drugs believed to be ready for sale, and a conducted energy weapon which is a prohibited weapon and was possessed contrary to probation conditions. Parlee also had a warrant for arrest from New Brunswick.

    “The information that we received helped officers do targeted, proactive patrols, and lead to locating more than just the missing dirt bike,” says Sgt. Jarret MacDonald, Cumberland County District RCMP. “We appreciate receiving tips that support our investigations because what may seem like a small detail can lead to an outcome that is more significant than anticipated, like in this investigation.”

    Parlee has been charged with Resist Arrest, four counts of Possession of Property Obtained by Crime, four counts of Possession of Weapon Contrary to Order, six counts under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act of Possession for the Purposes of Trafficking, in addition to his previous warrants.

    He was held in custody and will have first court appearance on December 20, 2024.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Three Twin Cities Men Indicted in Narcotics Fraud Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    MINNEAPOLIS – Three individuals have been charged in a conspiracy to acquire scheduled controlled substances by fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Andrew M. Luger.

    According to court documents, Oscar Becerra-Ruiz, 21, Jasper William Johnson, 19, and Rayjaun Keon Varner, 23, knowingly conspired with each other to obtain promethazine with codeine, a controlled substance.  From approximately December 2022 and continuing through on or about August 3, 2023, the defendants used paid internet-based record searches to secure identifying information of registered physicians practicing in Minnesota and Wisconsin.  Johnson then used this information to illegally access the Drug Enforcement Administration’s Registrant Information Consolidated System (RICS), a government-run database designed to track physician registration, compliance, and reporting, and to prevent the diversion of controlled substances from legitimate medical sources to the illicit black market. 

    The indictment alleges that after gaining access to multiple physicians’ RICS accounts, Johnson changed the physicians’ valid contact information in the system to phone numbers, email addresses, and physical addresses he and his co-conspirators maintained and controlled.  The defendants then used the stolen and compromised information to set up physician customer accounts with several online pharmaceutical wholesalers. Using pre-paid debit cards and peer-to-peer payment accounts also registered in the physicians’ names, the defendants unlawfully placed dozens of orders with the pharmaceutical vendors for controlled substances, including promethazine with codeine, a prescription-strength cough syrup containing the opioid codeine.

    To date, the investigation, which remains ongoing, has not uncovered any evidence of patients or patient information having been compromised by the defendants. 

    Becerra-Ruiz, Johnson, and Varner were each charged with conspiracy to obtain controlled substances by fraud and attempt to obtain controlled substances by fraud.  Johnson was charged with an additional 11 counts of wire fraud, 3 counts of accessing a protected computer in furtherance of fraud, and 4 counts of aggravated identity theft.  The defendants will be arraigned at a later date. 

    This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the U.S. Secret Service.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Lauren O. Roso and Allen A. Slaughter are prosecuting the case.

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

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Louisville Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking Conspiracy and Firearms Offense

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced yesterday to a total of 27 years in federal prison for numerous felony offenses, including conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances, possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and escape.

    U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphreys of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.

    “This case demonstrates the positive impact that flows from collaborative law enforcement efforts,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. Our federal, state, and local law enforcement partnerships in Louisville are key to making the community safer. I commend the work ATF and LMPD, as well as the federal, state, and local agencies from across the country who assisted them. The result in this case – the removal of two violent individuals from the streets for a lengthy period – makes the city safer for all who live, work, and visit here.”     

    According to court documents, Chicoby Summers, 29, was sentenced to 25 years in prison, followed by 5 years supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over one kilogram of fentanyl, over 250 grams of heroin, and a mixture of cocaine base, commonly referred to as “crack cocaine,” possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking, and escape. Summers was sentenced to an additional 2 years in prison, to run consecutively with the 25-year sentence for a total of 27 years, for violation of his supervised release.

    Summers and his co-defendant, Jerlen Horton, were convicted following a seven-day jury trial in July of this year.

    In November of this year, Horton was sentenced to serve 29 years and a 6 months, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over one kilogram of fentanyl, over 250 grams of heroin, and a mixture of cocaine base, commonly referred to as “crack cocaine,” possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, heroin, and cocaine, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    The ATF and LMPD investigated the case, with assistance from the FBI, DEA, United States Postal Inspection Service, Kentucky State Police, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Long Beach California Police Department, Verdigris Oklahoma Police Department, and the St. Louis Metropolitan Police Department.

    Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Josh Porter prosecuted the case, with assistance from paralegal Adela Alic.

    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.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Texas title company employee admits to orchestrating $350,000 real estate wire fraud scheme

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    McALLEN, Texas – A 55-year-old McAllen resident has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud, announced U.S. Attorney Alamdar S. Hamdani.

    Mayela Saby Cantu admitted she knowingly participated in a scheme that used falsified lien payoff statements, fraudulent warranty deeds and deceptive emails to mislead lenders, title companies and property buyers.

    From November 2020 until her arrest, Cantu defrauded buyers and lenders in multiple property transactions while working at Sierra Title in McAllen. Using her position of trust, she facilitated closings backed by falsified documents. In one notable case, she directed others to create a fraudulent email address resembling that of a legitimate lienholder. Cantu then used the fake account to send false payoff amounts via interstate wires, leading a title company to improperly disburse more than $350,000.

    Cantu facilitated additional fraudulent property transactions, including arranging closing on properties that had already been sold and accepting undisclosed cash payments. By concealing the true nature of these deals, she caused significant financial harm to the affected parties.

    Chief U.S. District Judge Randy Crane will impose sentencing March 3, 2025. At that time, Cantu faces up to 20 years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine. 

    She was permitted to remain on bond pending that hearing.

    The FBI, McAllen Police Department and Texas Department of Insurance conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric D. Flores is prosecuting the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jacksonville Technology Architect Sentenced To More Than 12 Years For Attempting To Entice And Meet An 11-Year-Old To Engage In Sexual Activity

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    Jacksonville, Florida – Senior United States District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan has sentenced Amol Chandrashekhar Khedkar (59, Jacksonville) to 12 years and 6 months in federal prison for using his cellphone and the internet to attempt to entice an 11-year-old child to engage in sexual activity. Khedkar was also ordered to serve a 10-year term of supervised release and to register as a sex offender. Khedkar was working as an information technology architect for a financial institution when he was arrested on November 29, 2023, in St. Johns County. He has been detained since that time. Khedkar pleaded guilty on August 13, 2024.

    According to court documents and evidence discussed in open court, on November 28, 2023, an undercover FBI agent (UC) in the Jacksonville area was conducting an online undercover operation to identify adults seeking to meet and engage in sexual activity with children. Posing as the parent of an 11-year-old child, the UC posted a notice in a public chat room of a particular online social messaging application (app). Minutes later, an individual using the app name “drbrownee,” who was subsequently identified as Khedkar, contacted the UC online by private message on the app. After being advised of the “child’s” age, Khedkar confirmed that he would “love to see [the ‘child’].” He asked the UC specific questions about access to the “child” and the “child’s” sexual experience, including “[d]oes she suck,” “[d]o you allow fondling?,” and “[w]hat do you charge?” Khedkar and the UC discussed meeting in person the next day at the “child’s” residence. Khedkar stated, “I’ll show up, … [t]hen you can invite me inside.”

    On November 29, 2023, Khedkar and the UC exchanged text messages and arranged to meet at a location in St. Johns County. When Khedkar arrived at the location, he was arrested by FBI agents. During an interview with agents, Khedkar stated that his username was “drbrownee,” that he used his online account to communicate with the UC, and he had asked the UC about sexually abusing the “child.” Khedkar’s cellphone was seized incident to his arrest and a search of its contents revealed at least 25 online conversations between Khedkar and other individuals on the app discussing the sexual exploitation of children, as well as several photos depicting young children being sexually abused.       

    This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.

    It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc. 

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to Prison for Assaulting Police Officer During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               WASHINGTON – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced to prison today after he was previously convicted of 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.

               Joseph Pastucci, 50, of New Cumberland, Pennsylvanian, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Beryl A. Howell to 26 months in prison, 36 months of supervised release, and ordered to pay $2,000 in restitution.

               Pastucci previously pleaded guilty to a felony offense of assaulting, resisting, or impeding certain officers. According to the stipulated facts of this case, Pastucci and co-defendant Jeanette Mangia made plans to travel to Washington, D.C., on Jan. 6, 2021, to protest Congress’ certification of the Electoral College. On Jan. 6, 2021, Pastucci and Mangia traveled from New Cumberland, Pennsylvania, to the Washington, D.C., area to attend the “Stop the Steal” rally. After the rally, the couple walked down toward the U.S. Capitol building. Two minutes after the first breach, they entered the building via the Senate Wing Door and eventually made their way to and entered the Speaker of the House’s Office Suite.

               From there, the couple continued to traverse throughout the Capitol building before making their way into the Senate Chamber. Inside the Chamber, the couple walked on, inspected, and photographed the Senate Dais and rifled through documents. They remained in the Senate Chamber for approximately 14 minutes.

               After leaving the Senate Chamber, between 3:04 p.m. and approximately 3:06 p.m., Pastucci and Mangia confronted police officers near the Senate Carriage Door. During this confrontation, the officers instructed Pastucci and Mangia to leave the building, but they refused. Pastucci was then physically pushed from the Capitol by a police officer. Pastucci resisted this officer’s efforts to push him from the building, including by grabbing a piece of furniture and using it to try and brace against the officer’s efforts. After being ejected from the Capitol and watching Mangia be removed from the Capitol, Pastucci shoved a United States Capitol Police Officer in the chest and shoulder area.

               After being physically removed from the Capitol and assaulting a police officer, at approximately 3:06 p.m., the couple reentered the Capitol via the Rotunda Doors and pushed their way into a crowd of rioters. The couple exited the building at approximately 3:27 p.m.

               The FBI arrested the duo on April 27, 2023, in Pennsylvania.

                Jeanette Mangia is currently awaiting trial for her role in the events of January 6th.

               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 Offices for the Middle Pennsylvania provided valuable assistance.

               The FBI’s Philadelphia and Washington Field Offices investigated this case. The U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department provided valuable assistance.

               In the 47 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,572 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 590 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.

    23-cr-288

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Dentist Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Stealing Drugs from Patients and Performing Surgery Without Proper Pain Management

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – A Rochester, Illinois, dentist, Phillip M. Jensen, 64, was sentenced on December 18, 2024, to 15 years in prison for stealing fentanyl from his patients, injecting them with adulterated drugs, and performing surgery without proper pain management. Jenson also was ordered to pay a $200,000 fine.

    Jensen previously pleaded guilty to two counts of drug diversion, two counts of acquiring a controlled substance by fraud, one count of tampering with consumer products resulting in serious bodily injury, and two counts of false statements relating to health care matters in August 2024.

    Jensen, who prior to having his license suspended in 2022 had specialized in oral and maxillofacial surgery, started stealing fentanyl form his patients as early as December 2019. This conduct first came to light when his staff began noticing patients who were moving, moaning, and otherwise showing signs of pain and distress during surgery.

    Jensen admitted that he had stolen at least half of the fentanyl in every vial in the practice. He acknowledged removing the safety caps, withdrawing at least half of the fentanyl in the single-use vials, refilling the vials with saline, and gluing the caps back on to the vials. In a further effort to hide what he had done, Jensen made false entries into his surgical records claiming that he had given quantities of full-strength and unadulterated fentanyl to his patients to control their pain. He further billed both public and private insurance for these surgeries utilizing these same falsified records. In all, Jensen stole more than 40 grams of fentanyl for his personal use through his fraud.

    At the sentencing hearing before U.S. District Judge Colleen R. Lawless, the government presented evidence of Jensen’s lengthy history with addiction, his previous efforts at treatment, and his ultimate decision to prey upon his patients by stealing the drugs that were meant to provide them with comfort during their surgeries. The government presented evidence of the elaborate steps Jensen took to disguise his theft and how his theft of this necessary pain medication impacted his patients. 

    During the hearing, Judge Lawless also heard from several of the more than 99 identified victims of Jensen’s fraud, including the statement of a mother who discussed looking into the face of their child immediately following the surgery as the child cried and stated that they had “felt everything.” The government also presented the statement of a patient that awoke during her surgery. When Jensen realized she was awake, he struck the patient in the head with an instrument and completed the surgery, which involved the extraction of multiple teeth as well as the shaping and smoothing of the bones in her jaw, while she was conscious and lacking pain management.

    At the conclusion of the hearing, Judge Lawless rejected Jensen’s argument that he was less culpable than an average drug dealer. She noted that Jensen profited from his crimes. She also stated that while a dealer provides drugs to knowing and willing participants, Jensen provided diluted drugs without the consent or knowledge of his victims. She noted that Jensen was a physician who used his position of trust to hurt others. Judge Lawless concluded by asking, “If you cannot trust your doctor, who can you trust?”

    A federal grand jury returned an indictment against Jensen in February 2022 charging him with twenty felony counts. He was originally released on bond, but a warrant was issued in July 2024 for violation of the terms and conditions of bond after he stalked and harassed a potential witness in the case. Jensen was detained at that time, and he has remained in the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service.

    Judge Lawless, in imposing the fifteen-year sentence, rejected Jensen’s arguments for a lower drug weight and noted the egregious nature of his conduct. In addition to the $200,000 fine imposed, Judge Lawless also ordered Jensen to repay the government for the costs of the expert witness it had to hire. Jensen also lost his medical license as a result of his conduct.

    “This case represents the commitment of the Department of Justice, both in the Central District of Illinois and beyond, to protect and defend the public from those that would prey upon them,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory K. Harris. “People are never as vulnerable as when they place their faith in a health care provider to not only treat their condition but to administer anesthesia and pain medicine during that treatment. Jensen abused that faith and hurt others in the process. Because of this prosecution, Jensen will not be permitted to practice medicine again and will be prevented from hurting members of our community in the future.”

    “Health care professionals who tamper with patient medications create a risk of harm to patients, and also put at risk the trust that U.S. consumers have in those who provide their medical care,” said Ronne Malham, Special Agent in Charge of the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Criminal Investigations Chicago Field Office. “We will continue to investigate and bring to justice health care professionals who take advantage of their unique medical positions and tamper with patients’ medications.”

    “Medical professionals who violate their oaths to ‘do no harm’ must be held accountable,” said Sheila Lyons, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration – Chicago Division. “The DEA will continue working to keep Illinois families safe from medical professionals who illegally divert opioid painkillers from legitimate medical supplies.”

    The United States Drug Enforcement Administration Diversion Unit, Springfield Resident Office, which focuses on cases involving pharmaceutical controlled substances diverted from the legal chain of commerce to the illegal drug market, investigated this case in conjunction with the Sangamon County Sheriff’s Office, the United States Food and Drug Administration, and the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Douglas F. McMeyer and Sierra Senor-Moore represented the government in the prosecution.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Nine Quad Cities Men Sentenced to Federal Prison in Violent RICO Conspiracy

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    DAVENPORT, Iowa – Nine Quad Cities men, Don Christopher White, Jr., Raheem Jacques Houston, Deaguise Ramont Hall, Michael Linn Cross, Devell Carl Lewis, Lashawn D James Hensley, Simmeon Terrell Hall, Devante Atwell French, and Cortez Deangelo Cooper, Jr., were sentenced to federal prison for their roles in a racketeering conspiracy, which engaged in a years-long pattern of violence, including murder, attempted murder, and drug trafficking.

    According to public court documents and evidence presented at trials and sentencings, these Fifth Street gang members, also known as the “Arsenal Courts Posse,” “Zone Fifth,” “Fifth Street Mafia,” “Rock Town Money Getters (RTMG),” and “Money Team,” were members and associates of a coordinated violent criminal enterprise based out of Rock Island, Illinois, but engaged in racketeering activity in Davenport and Rock Island, whose purpose was to distribute controlled substances, obtain money and shoot at rival gang members, specifically the 12th Street, Savage Life, and Boom Gang street gangs. Evidence at trial demonstrated the criminal enterprise was connected to dozens of shooting investigations and at least seven homicides over the course of two decades. Some of the activity connected to this enterprise included the following incidents:

    • On August 6, 2006, Andrell Hearn was shot and killed in Rock Island.
    • On August 19, 2006, White and other Fifth Street associates drove by an outdoor family gathering in Davenport where 12th Street members were present and discharged firearms into the group resulting in the death of Vincelina Howard.
    • On August 6, 2011, a shooting outside the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds involving Fifth Street members and members of a rival Davenport group.
    • On September 5, 2012, French and another Fifth Street associate fired shots at a rival gang member in Davenport.
    • On March 31, 2013, several members of a rival Davenport gang were standing in front of the Chorus Line when Fifth Street member Demarko Williams walked into the parking lot and fired multiple shots at the group. In January 2014, Demarko Williams was sentenced to a 100-month federal prison sentence for possessing a firearm as a felon.
    • On September 2, 2015, Fifth Street associate Juwan Johnson shot and killed Lewis Woodson, a rival gang member, in Davenport.
    • On January 3, 2020, officers responded to a shots-fired incident in or near the Davenport parking lot of the Quad City Times building and seized a large number of casings that were later matched to firearms used by Fifth Street members.
    • On May 23, 2020, a dispute over a dice game at a family gathering in Rock Island led to a shootout between Fifth Street associates and others, resulting in the death of Timon Mayfield.
    • Between May 24 and 31, 2020, multiple shootings in the same Rock Island neighborhood where Mayfield was killed left seized casings that were later matched to firearms used by Fifth Street associates.
    • On June 1, 2020, while the City of Davenport was experiencing civil unrest, this criminal enterprise participated in two shootings in Davenport in which they fired in excess of 60 shots and seriously injured two men.
    • Specifically, on June 1, 2020, White, Lewis, Deaguise Hall, Cross, Hensley, and Cooper were present at Necker’s Jewelers to commit a burglary. While there, the group saw a man they had mistaken for a rival gang member. Cooper and others fired 33 rounds from four guns seriously injuring the victim.
    • Just a few hours later, White, Houston, Deaguise Hall, Cross, Hensley, Lewis, and others were in a Davenport alley when a truck occupied by three Davenport police officers entered the alley. Immediately, four Fifth Street associates fired more than 30 rounds at the truck occupied by the officers. Evidence at trial showed Fifth Street members thought the truck was occupied by a rival group. One police officer was struck and injured by the gunfire. One of the officers returned fire. As a result of this exchange, Marquis Tousant died. White, Houston, Deaguise Hall, Cross, Hensley, and Lewis fled the alley shooting in a high-speed car chase through Davenport. They were eventually apprehended. Officers located seven firearms, a large amount of ammunition, large-capacity magazines, including a 50-round drum magazine, face masks, and gloves inside the vehicle. Three of these firearms were later matched to fired casings in the Davenport alley.
    • On December 4, 2021, White and another Fifth Street associate shot at a victim in a vehicle on Middle Road in Davenport.
    • On December 8, 2021, White and another Fifth Street associate were involved in a shooting near the Centennial Bride and River Drive in Davenport. They mistook two men in a vehicle for rivals.
    • On February 25, 2022, White shot a man during a dispute in Moline, Illinois.
    • On March 27, 2022, French shot a victim near the rear door of his residence on Locust Street in Davenport.
    • On April 19, 2022, French shot a victim in the yard of a residence in retaliation for a prior shooting of a Fifth Street associate.

    SENTENCES

    On Wednesday, December 18, 2024, the following defendants were sentenced:

    • Don Christopher White, Jr., 39, was sentenced to 40 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, and two charges for felon in possession of a firearm, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. White was also ordered to pay $22,784.20 in restitution.
    • Raheem Jacques Houston, 32, was sentenced to 30 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of a firearm, followed by a three -year term of supervised release. Houston was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
    • Deaguise Ramont Hall, 35, was sentenced to 33 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Hall was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
    • Michael Linn Cross, 32, was sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Cross was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
    • LaShawn D. James Hensley, 32, was sentenced to 12 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Hensley was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.

    * * *

    The following defendants were sentenced on December 19, 2024:

    • Devante Atwell French, 31, was sentenced to 30 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of ammunition, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
    • Simmeon Terrell Hall, 36, was sentenced to 30 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.
    • Devell Carl Lewis, 37, was sentenced to 18 1/2 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy, followed by a three-year term of supervised release. Lewis was also ordered to pay $16,012.52 in restitution.
    • Cortez Deangelo Cooper, Jr., 31, was sentenced to 13 1/2 years of imprisonment for racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of ammunition, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.

    * * *

    Previously, on July 11, 2024, Brandon Deshane Branigan, 34, was sentenced to 18 years of imprisonment for the same racketeering conspiracy, followed by a three-year term of supervised release.

    There is no parole in the federal system.

    * * *

    “Violent crime against our community and attacks on law enforcement will not be tolerated,” said Davenport Police Chief Jeffery Bladel. “These individuals demonstrated a blatant disregard for the safety of our Quad City community; especially in the case of the 2020 ambush and attempted murder of three of our officers. I’m proud of our department’s unwavering dedication to holding criminals accountable and protecting those who serve. My sincere thanks to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their steadfast commitment to justice.”

    * * *

    Two defendants have pled guilty and are awaiting sentencing:

    Ricky Lee Childs, Jr., 40, is scheduled to be sentenced on January 23, 2025, for racketeering conspiracy. As part of this investigation, he was also charged with felon in possession of a firearm and sentenced to 110 months of imprisonment in case number 3:22-cr-021. Childs faces a maximum sentence of 20 years of imprisonment.

    Timothy Justin Beaver, 30, is scheduled to be sentenced on February 13, 2025, for racketeering conspiracy and for possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Beaver faces a maximum sentence of 40 years of imprisonment.

    A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the United States sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.

    * * *

    Two defendants are awaiting trial. Kylea Dapri Cartwright, Jr., 28, is charged with racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of ammunition. One of the racketeering acts alleges that on July 5, 2020, Cartwright shot a victim. Rasheem Damonte Bogan, 33, is charged with racketeering conspiracy and felon in possession of a firearm. One of the racketeering acts alleges that on June 1, 2020, Bogan shot a victim. Both are scheduled for a jury trial beginning Monday, February 10, 2025. They each face a maximum of 30 years of imprisonment.

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

    * * *

    United States Attorney Richard D. Westphal of the Southern District of Iowa made the announcement. This case was investigated by the Davenport Police Department and the Rock Island Police Department, with assistance from the Scott County Sheriff’s Office, Iowa Department of Public Safety-Division of Criminal Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Drug Enforcement Administration.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Jury Finds Convicted Killer Guilty of Kidnapping and Racketeering

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

               WASHINGTON – Christopher Green, 38, of Washington D.C., was found guilty on Wednesday of racketeering and kidnapping, in connection with a series of violent crimes he committed in early 2017.

               The verdict was announced by U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves, FBI Assistant Director, Washington Field Office, David Sunberg, Chief Malik Aziz of the Prince Georges Police Department, and Chief Pamela Smith of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

               Following a 12-day re-trial, the jury found Green, 38, aka “Twin,” guilty of RICO conspiracy and VICAR kidnapping. U.S. District Court Judge Randolph D. Moss scheduled sentencing for March 31, 2025. 

               In 2021, Green was found guilty of first-degree murder with aggravating circumstances, assault with a dangerous weapon, and attempted robbery in connection with other offenses committed during the same period.

              According to the government’s evidence, Green was a core member of a criminal organization that operated in the District of Columbia, Prince George’s County, Maryland, and elsewhere, primarily making money through a series of armed robberies. Green’s actions in Southeast Washington on April 9, 2017, led to the death of 25-year-old Zaan Scott. Mr. Scott, a swim coach at the Eastern Market pool, who was on his way home when Green attempted to rob him at gunpoint. Mr. Scott died on May 17, 2017, of a blood clot that the medical examiner determined was a result of the shooting. Green also was found guilty at the initial trial of firing gunshots at another victim on Feb. 23, 2017.

           The kidnapping conviction in the retrial involved an incident on April 8, 2017, in which Green confronted a young man at gunpoint as the man was getting out of his car in a convenience store parking lot.  Green ordered the victim back into the car and robbed him of his ATM card.  He then forced the victim to drive to a nearby apartment complex, where he robbed him of his sneakers and other belongings. 

                Green has been detained since his arrest in April 2017.

               The case was investigated by the FBI’s Washington Field Office, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the Prince George’s County Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nihar R. Mohanty and Michael Liebman.

    19cr0019

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Nain — Arrest warrant issued for Sonny Merkuratsuk

    Source: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

    An arrest warrant has been issued for 37-year-old Sonny Merkuratsuk who is actively evading police.

    Merkuratsuk is wanted by Nain RCMP in relation to the following charges:

    • Sexual Assault
    • Break and enter
    • Uttering threats
    • Failure to comply with a release order

    Anyone having information on the current location of Sonny Merkuratsuk is asked to contact Nain RCMP at 709-922-2862 or, to remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers: #SayItHere 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), visit www.nlcrimestoppers.com or use the P3Tips app.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Florida Man Sentenced for Health Care Fraud Violations

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    BOSTON – A Florida man was sentenced today in federal court in Boston for a scheme to defraud insurance providers for physical therapy services that were not provided to patients.

    Jeffrey MacEachron, 60, a retired Air Force Colonel and former Inspector General at Hanscom Air Force Base, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Indira Talwani to three months in prison, to be followed by 27 months of supervised release subject to home confinement. MacEachron was also ordered to pay $335,098 in restitution and a $5,500 fine. In July 2024, MacEachron pleaded guilty to an Information charging him with one count of health care fraud; aiding and abetting.

    MacEachron owned and managed PT4U, Inc., a business that operated physical therapy clinics in Bedford and Lexington, Mass. According to the charging documents, from 2013 through 2021, MacEachron caused insurance companies and TRICARE to reimburse PT4U for physical therapy services that were not actually performed. Specifically, MacEachron edited claim forms to add units of service beyond those actually performed and then submitted them to insurance companies and TRICARE for payment.

    United States Attorney Joshua S. Levy; Chris Averill, Special Agent in Charge of the Air Force, Office of Special Investigations; Brian J. Solecki, Special Agent in Charge of the Defense Criminal Investigative Service; Jodi Cohen, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; and Anthony DiPaolo, Chief of Investigations of the Insurance Fraud Bureau of Massachusetts made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James D. Herbert and Christopher Looney prosecuted the case.

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  • MIL-OSI Security: Oneida County Felon Admits to Firearm and Drug Offenses

    Source: Office of United States Attorneys

    ALBANY, NEW YORK – Leshawn Thomas, age 33, of Clayville, New York, pled guilty yesterday to possessing cocaine and cocaine base with the intent to distribute them and to unlawfully possessing firearms.  United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Frank A. Tarentino III, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), New York Division, made the announcement.

    Thomas, who had two prior felony convictions, admitted to possessing with intent to distribute approximately 3 kilograms of cocaine and 268.14 grams of cocaine base in Oneida County, New York, on or about April 28, 2023.  He also admitted to possessing two loaded semi-automatic pistols: a Glock, model 22, .40 cal. and a Kahr, model CM9, .9 mm.

    Thomas is scheduled to be sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes on April 4, 2025.  He faces a minimum term of 10-years in federal prison and a maximum of life, and a term of supervised release between 5 years and life.  A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.

    DEA investigated the case with the assistance of the Saratoga County Sheriff’s Office, the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, and the New York State Department of Corrections and Community Supervision (NYDOCCS).  Assistant U.S. Attorney Allen J. Vickey is prosecuting the case.

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