New Albany – United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced today that a Madison, Indiana man was sentenced March 22, 2019, following his guilty plea to two counts of possession of unregistered destructive devices and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. David Theiring, 40, was sentenced to 87 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Court Judge Tanya Walton Pratt.

“As citizens of this state and this country, we will not tolerate terrorism foreign or domestic of any kind. Those individuals who choose to threaten innocent lives will face the consequences of their actions,” said Minkler.

On Sunday, March 6, 2016, at approximately 1:00 a.m., an improvised explosive device in the form of a pipe bomb was detonated outside the Madison, Indiana Police Department.  The event occurred on the sidewalk on the east side of Central Avenue, beside the parking area for the police department. Evidence consisted of pieces of an unknown length of a ¾” white PVC pipe, two end caps, and gray duct tape. No one was injured and no property was damaged, though the bomb was detonated close to police vehicles.

On Wednesday, March 16, 2016, at approximately 2:50 a.m., an improvised explosive device in the form of a pipe bomb was detonated outside the residence of a Jefferson County Indiana Judge in Madison, Indiana. No one was injured and no damage was observed.

David Theiring was identified as a suspect. Law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on Theiring’s residence and he was found to be in possession of two firearms as well as numerous items utilized to manufacture a destructive device.

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Louisville, Kentucky, Indiana State Police, Madison City Police Department, Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and Jefferson County Prosecutor’s Office.

“ATF strives to be ‘no better partner’ to law enforcement agencies, especially when investigating the criminal use of explosives and bombings,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge Stuart Lowrey of the Louisville Field Division. “The sharing of resources and collaborative efforts with the Jefferson County Indiana Sheriff’s Department and Madison Indiana Police brought about the swift arrest and incarceration of a dangerous felon. This sentence reflects ATF’s ongoing commitment to reduce violent crime in our communities.”

According to Assistant United States Attorney Lauren M. Wheatley, who is prosecuting the case for the government, Theiring must be serve 3 years of supervised release following her sentence.

In October 2017, United States Attorney Josh J. Minkler announced a Strategic Plan designed to shape andstrengthen the District’s response to its most significant public safety challenges. This prosecution demonstrates the Office’s firm commitment to prosecuting individuals engaged in domestic terrorism and violent crime using firearms. See United States Attorney’s Office, Southern District of Indiana Strategic Plan 1.2 and 2.3 

Columbia, South Carolina --- United States Attorney Sherri A. Lydon announced today that Eugene Jonathan James, age 21, of Orangeburg, South Carolina, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after pleading guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.

Evidence presented to the court showed that at approximately 12:36 a.m. on May 27, 2017, officers with the Cayce Department of Public Safety were running radar on Knox Abbott Drive when they observed a car traveling 15-20 mph over the speed limit. After activating their blue lights and siren in an attempt to conduct a traffic stop, a chase ensued across the Blossom Street Bridge into Columbia. At one point, the driver of the car appeared to stop, but when officers approached, the car sped off again. Ultimately, the car stopped near the Riverwalk and the sole occupant/driver, later identified as James, fled on foot, disregarding officers’ commands for him to stop. James fled into the woodline off the Riverwalk and assumed a crouched position. He appeared to the officers to be lying in wait for them. After threatening to use his taser to get James to comply, one officer heard gunshots and felt pain. That officer, who was wearing a bulletproof vest, was shot in the chest and leg, and the other officer was shot in his leg. Officers returned fire and called for backup assistance.

Responding officers located James in the woodline with a .40 caliber Smith and Wesson lying at his feet. James had also been shot. Further investigation revealed that the car driven by James had been stolen during a carjacking in Orangeburg on May 14, 2017. The serial number of the firearm had been burned in an attempt to obliterate it; however, law enforcement was able to restore the serial number and determined that the gun had been stolen during the theft of a Jeep in Orangeburg on May 15, 2017. A ballistics examination of the firearm matched it to the fired bullet recovered from one of the officers’ bulletproof vests and to a May 16, 2017, shooting incident in Orangeburg.

Federal law prohibits James from possessing firearms and ammunition based upon an April 2017 Orangeburg conviction for burglary 3rd degree for which he received a probationary sentence.  At the time of the instant offense, James was on state probation and out on state bond for unrelated Richland County state armed robbery and weapon charges stemming from a March 2017 incident.         

During the sentencing hearing, the court heard from one of the officers who was shot and from his wife.  His wife said, “As a law enforcement officer’s spouse, we know the risks our loved ones take when they strap on their body armor and kiss us on the way out of the door. We know that may be the last kiss. We pray for their safety and their safe return home. As a spouse, we dread phone calls in the middle of the night and knocks on the door – especially when our loved ones are working. My nightmare became reality, with one simple phone call.”

United States District Judge Michelle Childs sentenced James to the statutory maximum of 120 months in federal prison, to be followed by a 3-year term of court-ordered supervision.  There is no parole in the federal system.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Cayce Department of Public Safety, the Columbia Police Department, and the South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED).

This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project CeaseFire initiative, which aggressively prosecutes firearm cases. Project CeaseFire is South Carolina’s implementation of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime. Assistant United States Attorney Stacey D. Haynes of the Columbia office prosecuted the case.

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Matthew D. Krueger, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on April 1, 2019, Catalina Taboada (age 47), of Green Bay, Wisconsin, was sentenced in federal court to 21 months of imprisonment for willfully preparing false income tax returns in violation of Title 26, United States Code, Section 7206(2).  Taboada agreed to pay $571,800 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service.

In 2009, Taboada started her own tax preparation business in Green Bay, Wisconsin, called Taboada & Associates.  According to the plea agreement, Taboada committed fraud at her business in several ways.  She fraudulently claimed child tax credits for clients whose children lived exclusively in Mexico.  She also claimed child tax credits for clients’ nieces, nephews, cousins or other distant relatives.  Taboada additionally claimed dependent exemptions for children who were not residents of the United States, Mexico or Canada.  Taboada admitted to understanding the qualifying rules for child tax credits and exemptions, but nevertheless said that she made the fraudulent claims to “stimulate the economy.”

“The honest women and men who pay their hard-earned money in taxes deserve to know that unscrupulous people who cheat on their taxes will be investigated, prosecuted, and incarcerated,” said U.S. Attorney Krueger.  “Together with the IRS-Criminal Investigation, the Department of Justice will continue to prosecute tax fraud aggressively.”    

Gabriel Grchan, IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge said, “This sentencing demonstrates the commitment that IRS Criminal Investigation has in ferreting out fraudulent tax return preparers who play by their own rules and use a variety of methods to cheat the system.  It is important for taxpayers to know that fraudulent tax preparers will be brought to justice.”

This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Keith S. Alexander.

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United States Attorney Matthew D. Krueger of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on April 5, 2019, Neil A. Harkness (age: 47) of Fairborn, Ohio, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for his violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1343, commonly referred to as “wire fraud.”

In the Spring of 2017, the Brillion Police Department was contacted by “Company A” located in Brillion, Wisconsin. “Company A” suspected that its employee, Neil A. Harkness, had submitted fraudulent hotel and meal expense receipts resulting in over $20,000 in loss to the company. Further investigation revealed that Harkness was also involved in the theft of the industrial adhesive Loctite while working as Company A’s sales representative in Ohio. Given the interstate nature of the alleged crimes, the FB I took over the investigation. Harkness was charged with multiple counts of wire fraud, interstate transportation of stolen property, and aggravated identity theft.  Pursuant to a plea agreement, Harkness pled guilty to one count of wire fraud. 

At the sentencing hearing, Chief Judge William C. Griesbach heard hours of testimony as to the amount of loss to Company A.  Ultimately, Judge Griesbach determined that Harkness had defrauded the company of $23,239 by submitting fraudulent hotel receipts for reimbursement. He further found that Harkness stole $194,000 worth of Loctite, which he then sold on Ebay and other internet resale sites for his own enrichment. 

Judge Griesbach called Harkness’ actions “serious” and noted that he was the “consummate conman.” He found a strong need to protect the public from Harkness and was convinced that without a term of imprisonment, the defendant would continue his fraudulent behavior. The judge rejected Harkness’ request for probation. He also ordered 3 years of Supervised Release and ordered Harkness to pay restitution to his former employer in the amount of $219,057.14.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Brillion Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Humble.

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BIRMINGHAM - A federal grand jury in March indicted a Birmingham college student for Advertisement, Sale, and Possession of Child Pornography announced U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town and FBI Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp, Jr. 

A five-count indictment filed in the U.S. District Court, charges DAVID DRAKE, 19, with advertising child pornography on the internet and selling those images and videos on the internet.  Drake is charged with 1-count of advertisement of child pornography and 2-counts of sale of child pornography.  Drake is also charged with 2 counts of possession of child pornography. 

“Our law enforcement will continue to vigilantly monitor the internet using all available resources available to uncover child exploitation and abuse,” Town said.  “These predators need to know that they will be arrested, prosecuted and once convicted, sentenced to time in a federal prison where there is no possibility for parole.”

The maximum penalty for advertisement of child pornography is a maximum of 30 years in prison.

The maximum penalty for the sale of child pornography is 20 years in prison. 

The maximum penalty for possession of child pornography is 20 years in prison since the collection of images and videos include children under the age of 12 years.

FBI Birmingham Division Child Exploitation Task Force along with ALEA investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Leann White is prosecuting the case.

An indictment contains only charges.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

BIRMINGHAM - A federal grand jury in March indicted a Sylacauga man for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor announced U.S. Attorney Jay E. Town and FBI Special Agent in Charge Johnnie Sharp, Jr. 

JERRY WAYNE HAMILTON, 49, is charged in an indictment filed in the U.S. District Court with attempting to coerce and entice an alleged 15 year old girl to meet him for sexual acts.  When Hamilton drove to meet the minor child for a sexual encounter, he was instead met by law enforcement. 

“Our office along with our federal and state law enforcement partners stand committed to see child predators brought to justice,” Town said.  “The tolerance for those who prey on innocent children is none.”     

The penalty for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor is 10 years to life in prison. 

FBI Birmingham Division Child Exploitation Task Force along with Mountain Brook Police Department investigated the case.  Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Leann White is prosecuting the case.

An indictment contains only charges.  A defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty. 

RICHMOND, Va. – A Richmond man was sentenced today to more than four and a half years in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm and conspiracy to obstruct justice.

According to court documents, in April 2018, Richmond Police Officers performed a traffic stop on the vehicle of Keith Gasque, 26, for suspicion of illegal tint. During the stop, officers learned that Gasque had a suspended license and asked him to step out of the vehicle while the officers continued to ask him questions. Gasque then agreed to allow the officers to perform a protective sweep of his vehicle, leading to the officers finding a loaded magazine in the center console.  When officers attempted to place him in handcuffs, Gasque fled on foot, circled back to vehicle and again fled in the vehicle, nearly striking one of the officers. After officers eventually apprehended Gasque and fully searched the vehicle, they found two loaded firearms in a backpack belonging to Gasque, and learned that the original magazine found in the center console did not fit either of the two firearms. Further investigation led law enforcement to learn that Gasque had recruited others to straw purchase the firearms on his behalf.

After Gasque was charged and detained in the Richmond City Jail, Gasque and his mother, Regina Gasque, agreed to recruit some of Gaque’s friends to falsely take responsibility for having owned the firearms officers found in Gasque’s vehicle. One of those friends, Trammel Lewis, is also one of the individuals who straw purchased one of the found firearms. During phone calls that Gasque made while in jail, Gasque spoke directly with Lewis about the false statements that Gasque wanted Lewis to make to law enforcement, including what Lewis was supposed to convey to a federal Grand Jury.  Both Regina Gasque and Lewis are co-defendants in this case, and are scheduled to be sentenced later this month.

This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), which is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts.  PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

G. Zachary Terwilliger, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Ashan M. Benedict, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Washington Field Division, made the announcement after sentencing by U.S. District Judge John A. Gibney, Jr. Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephen E. Anthony prosecuted the case.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of theDistrict Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 3:18-cr-135.

BOSTON – A Boston man was sentenced yesterday in federal court in Boston for bank robbery.

Phillip Leo Campanirio, 53, was sentenced by US District Court Judge George A. O’Toole to 70 months in prison, three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $4,680 to Citizens Bank.  On Jan. 9, 2019, Campanirio pleaded guilty to one count of bank robbery. Campanirio has been in federal custody since his arrest on Aug. 31, 2018.

On April 28, 2018, an individual, later determined to be Campanirio, entered a branch of Citizens Bank in Allston, approached the teller and demanded cash. Campanirio stated words to the effect: “$20, $50, and $100 dollar bills. I don’t want any [expletive] dye packs.” The teller handed Campanirio money from her drawer, and then, because Campanirio told her, “I want more,” the teller gave Campanirio additional cash from her drawer. Campanirio then exited the bank. A post-robbery audit determined that the robber had stolen $4,680.

The teller described Campanirio as an approximately 50-year-old white male, who walked with a limp. The teller stated that the robber was wearing a red and blue baseball hat, white reflective sunglasses, a white hooded sweatshirt, brown pants and white sneakers. Bank surveillance cameras showed images of Campanirio consistent with the description provided by the bank’s teller.

Information and pictures of Campanirio were disseminated on various media sites. A probation officer, who is currently supervising Campanirio while he is on supervised release stemming from a prior bank robbery conviction, saw the publicly released information and recognized the suspect as Campanirio.

United States Attorney Andrew E. Lelling and Joseph R. Bonavolonta, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Field Division, made the announcement today. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kenneth G. Shine of Lelling’s Major Crimes Unit prosecuted the case.

The Office of the United States Attorney for the District of Vermont announced that a federal grand jury’s indictment was unsealed yesterday that charged Jennifer Griffin, Kenneth Stone, and Gregory Miller with conspiring to use an Armscor of the Philippines, model M1911-A1F .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 924(o).  Griffin and Miller were arrested yesterday.  Stone is currently in the custody of the Vermont Department of Corrections for other matters.   Griffin and Miller appeared before United States Magistrate Judge John M. Conroy, and were ordered temporarily detained pending a detention hearing later this week.

According to court records, the investigation stemmed from the July 6, 2018 shooting of New York Police Department Detective Miguel Soto, who suffered a gunshot wound in the line of duty from an Armscor of the Philippines, model M1911-A1FS .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol.  Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) quickly learned that the firearm had been purchased in Rutland, Vermont less than a year before the shooting.  The ATF investigation in Rutland revealed that the firearm had been stolen from a friend of defendant Griffin’s (Henry Duval).  Through various interviews, ATF agents developed probable cause to search the contents of defendant Griffin’s Facebook account, in which they located messages between Griffin and co-defendant Kenneth Stone discussing trading a firearm for narcotics, and a photograph of Duval’s stolen Armscor of the Philippines, model M1911-A1FS .45 caliber semi-automatic pistol which Griffin had sent to Stone.  A search of defendant Stone’s Facebook account revealed messages with defendant Miller, in which the two discussed trading the firearm for narcotics.

If convicted, all three defendants face a maximum of twenty years of imprisonment, and a $250,000 fine.  The actual sentence however, would be determined by the Court with guidance from the advisory Federal Sentencing Guidelines.  The United States Attorney emphasizes that the charge in the complaint is merely an accusation, and that the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until he is proven guilty.

United States Attorney Christina E. Nolan commended the investigative efforts of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF).  She stated:  “this case highlights the worst that can happen when firearms are injected into the narcotics trade and placed in criminal hands.  Combatting such crime will remain a central focus of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and we will continue to partner closely with ATF to combat violent crime in all its forms.  Thanks to the ATF for its diligence and outstanding work in tracing the origins of the firearm that wounded a law enforcement officer in the line of duty.  Vermonters involved in illegally acquiring guns for drug dealers and other dangerous criminals must understand that they will be held accountable.  Far too often these guns are later recovered in crime scenes.” 

Special Agent In Charge John B. Devito of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, New York Field Division, stated: “Preventing the illegal use and trafficking of firearms is a central focus of ATF's strategy to combat violent crime and protect our communities. The three individuals charged today are alleged to have conspired to trade an illegal firearm for narcotics. Illegal firearms often find themselves in the hands of bad actors producing bad results as they did in this case with the shooting of a New York City Police Department Detective. Thanks to the diligent work of the investigators and detectives of the ATF/NYPD Joint Firearms Task Force these individuals were brought to justice preventing another potential violent crime and or death. I would like to thank the United States Attorney's Office for their guidance and work prosecuting this case.”

The United States is represented in this matter by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jonathan Ophardt.  Defendant Griffin is represented by the Office of the Federal Public Defender.  Defendant Miller is represented by Richard Goldsborough, Esq.  Defendant Stone has not yet appeared on this matter.

PROVIDENCE – A Central Falls resident previously convicted for drug trafficking in Massachusetts today pleaded guilty in federal court in Providence to charges that he trafficked fentanyl from his Central Falls apartment, and that he was a felon in possession of two firearms, one of which he said he obtained for “protection” for his drug trafficking activities.

Appearing before U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith, Dennis Rivera, 31, pleaded guilty to possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and two counts of possession of a firearm after having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year.

Rivera’s guilty plea is announced by United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman, Central Falls Police Chief Colonel James J. Mendonca, and Special Agent in Charge of the Boston Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Kelly D. Brady.

According to information presented to the Court, in late January 2018, a Central Falls Police Department and ATF Project Safe Neighborhoods investigation into Rivera’s drug trafficking activities included at least three law enforcement controlled purchases of fentanyl from Rivera. The investigation also determined that Rivera had told others that he possessed a firearm for “protection.”

On February 3, 2018, law enforcement executed a court-authorized search of Rivera’s residence, and seized, among other items, a .22 caliber revolver, 11grams of cocaine, 21grams of fentanyl, and various items used in the packaging and distribution of drugs.

At the time of Rivera’s arrest on February 3, 2018, he was awaiting trial in Rhode Island state court on an unrelated firearm charge. Rivera was arrested by Central Falls Police in June 2017 following an altercation with another person. As officers approached the two men, Rivera stashed a semi-automatic pistol near the bumper of a nearby car, then quickly walked away. The firearm was retrieved by police and Rivera was found hiding in the bathroom of a stranger’s apartment nearby.

Rivera is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Court Chief Judge William E. Smith on August 16, 2019. According to a plea agreement filed in this matter, at the time of sentencing the Government and the defendant will jointly recommend the Court impose a term of incarceration of 72 months in federal prison. 

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ronald R. Gendron and Ly T. Chin.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the centerpiece of the Department of Justice’s violent crime reduction efforts. PSN is an evidence-based program proven to be effective at reducing violent crime. Through PSN, a broad spectrum of stakeholders work together to identify the most pressing violent crime problems in the community and develop comprehensive solutions to address them. As part of this strategy, PSN focuses enforcement efforts on the most violent offenders and partners with locally based prevention and reentry programs for lasting reductions in crime.

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TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA– U.S. Attorney Lawrence Keefe will take the oath of office, joined by federal, state, and local law enforcement agency heads; Congress members; Judiciary members; Florida cabinet members; city and county government members; distinguished guests; and family.  The Honorable Mark E. Walker, Chief United States District Judge, will preside over the ceremony.  For more information about U.S. Attorney Keefe’s appointment, click here.

Event: Investiture Ceremony

Date: Friday, April 12, 2019

Event Start Time: 3:00 p.m. EDT
(Please arrive at the courthouse no later than 2:30 p.m. to allow time to go through security.)

Location:

United States Courthouse, Fifth Floor
111 North Adams Street
Tallahassee, Florida 32301

OPEN PRESS, NO CAMERAS.  As space is limited, guests and media may be seated in the overflow courtroom.

NOTE:Media must RSVP and present government-issued photo I.D. and valid media credentials.  Please RSVP to Amy Alexander at amy.alexander@usdoj.gov by Thursday, April 11 at noon if you plan to attend.  Please RSVP with the e-mail addresses of the person(s) attending the event, so that we may reach them directly if details change.

U.S. Attorney Keefe will be briefly available for photographs and video following the ceremony in the U.S. Attorney’s suite on the 4^th floor.  Please limit questions to those related to the investiture.  Please indicate in your RSVP if you will participate in this media availability.

Four-hour metered parking is available on Call Street, Adams Street, and Park Avenue.  Press should allow time to go through an initial security screen on the ground level of the courthouse (floor 2).  Then they will proceed to a press check-in on the 5th floor before entering the courtroom.  There will be no questions at the conclusion of the event.

The United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website.  For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

            WASHINGTON – Harry Pressley, 28, of Washington, D.C., and Jaquan Warren, 29, of New York, N.Y., pled guilty today to charges stemming from the shooting of a man they lured via Facebook and text messages to a location in Southeast Washington, announced U.S. Attorney Jessie K. Liu and Peter Newsham, Chief of the Metropolitan Police Department (MPD).

            Both defendants pled guilty to charges of aggravated assault while armed and obstruction of justice. Pressley also pled guilty to a firearms charge in a separate case. The pleas, which are subject to the Court’s approval, call for Pressley to be sentenced to an agreed-upon range of 10 to 15 years in prison and for Warren to be sentenced to an agreed-upon term of eight years in prison, with two years of that time to be suspended. The Honorable Danya A. Dayson scheduled sentencing for June 21, 2019. Pressley and Warren remain in custody.

            According to the government’s evidence, Pressley and Warren lured the victim to Southeast Washington by posing as a woman on Facebook. Warren borrowed the woman’s phone, which is how they accessed her Facebook account. Starting on Nov. 22, 2016, the two communicated with the victim over Facebook and text messages, using flirtatious language and suggesting the possibility of a late-night sexual encounter. At about 4 a.m. on Nov. 23, 2016, the defendants texted the victim that he should come to the 2600 block of Southern Avenue SE, noting how, “It’ll be worth your time I promise I wouldn’t be texting this late to play babe.”

            At about 4:35 a.m., as the victim exited a park near the intersection of 23^rd Street and Savannah Terrace Street SE, he noticed a man dressed in all black emerge from a van. The man – who wore a mask that exposed his eyes and nose – extended his arm and shot at the victim from five to 10 feet away. The victim was hit once in the stomach and once in the upper left arm. He survived the attack and later identified Pressley, a childhood friend, as the shooter. The victim suffered serious injuries to his kidney, small intestines, colon, rib case, and left arm.

            Warren returned the cellphone hours after the shooting. Two days later, on Nov. 25, 2016, the woman agreed to accompany Warren and Pressley on a short trip to South Carolina. During the trip, Warren asked the woman to take the wheel and she agreed. As she approached the driver’s side, Pressley fired two gunshots into her arm and two in the back. Pressley and Warren then drove off, leaving the woman for dead in the middle of a deserted road in Florence County, S.C., at 3 a.m. A man who happened to be driving by noticed her and called 911. The woman survived the attack. 

            Pressley was arrested on Nov. 29, 2016, in the District of Columbia. Warren was eventually arrested on May 5, 2017, in New York City. At the time of his arrest, Warren provided a fake ID and alias. Pressley, meanwhile, tried to concoct a false alibi while incarcerated.

            Pressley and Warren had faced attempted murder charges in South Carolina, which are to be dismissed as part of the plea agreement in this case.

            In the second case, Pressley pled guilty to a firearms offense stemming from his arrest on Sept. 9, 2015, in Southeast Washington by officers who caught him with the weapon.

            The shooting case was investigated by the Metropolitan Police Department. Assistance was provided by the Florence County, S.C. Sheriff’s Office, the U.S. Marshals Service, the Delaware State Police, and the Capital Area Regional Fugitive Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ahmed Baset, with assistance from Florence County, S.C. Assistant Solicitor General Ryan White and Victim/Witness Advocate Jennifer Clark and Intern Andrew Delaplane, both of the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

PROVIDENCE, RI – In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 7-13, 2019, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island will join the Rhode Island Attorney General and Family Service of Rhode Island led observance at the annual Victims’ Grove Ceremony.

“Victims of crime deserve justice. This Department works every day to help them recover and to find, prosecute, and convict those who have done them harm,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “During this National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we pause to remember the millions of Americans who have been victims of crime and we thank public servants who have served them in especially heroic ways. This week the men and women of the Department recommit ourselves once again to ensuring that crime victims continue to have a voice in our legal system, to securing justice for them, and to preventing other Americans from suffering what they have endured."

“Every day, every night, around the clock, law enforcement, prosecutors, and community partners work together to support victims of crime,” said United States Attorney Aaron L. Weisman. “As Attorney General William P. Barr noted, we are committed to ensuring that crime victims have our support and a voice as we hold those who have harmed them responsible for their actions.”

Each year in April, the Department of Justice and United States Attorneys’ offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In addition, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorneys’ offices organize events to honor the victims and advocates, as well as bring awareness to services available to victims of crime. This year’s observance takes place April 7-13, with the theme: Honoring Our Past. Creating Hope for the Future.

The U.S. Department of Justice will host the Office for Victims of Crime’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 12, 2019, to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.

The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week each year. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime.

The Office of Justice Programs provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime-fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov. More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/. You may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Rhode Island’s Victim Witness Program at (401) 709-5023.

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NEW ORLEANS–U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced today that DARRYL HENRY, age 27, pleaded guilty Wednesday, April 3, 2019 to committing three Hobbs Act Robberies and Brandishing a Firearm During a Crime of Violence.

On August 24, 2018, HENRY entered the Walmart Supercenter at 4001 Behrman Place in Algiers, New Orleans, Louisiana, and passed the teller a demand note and displayed a firearm.  The teller was unable to open the safe, and HENRY left the business empty-handed.   HENRY then went to the Winn-Dixie Supermarket at 3008 Holiday Drive, in Algiers, New Orleans, Louisiana, and unsuccessfully attempted to rob a clerk at that location.  HENRY then drove to the Walmart Neighborhood Market located 3265 Manhattan Boulevard, Harvey, Louisiana, and passed a demand note to a cashier while holding a gun in his right hand.  HENRY ultimately fled the store with $6,992.00 in United States currency.

HENRY will be sentenced by the Honorable Lance M. Africk on July 10, 2019.  He faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison as to the three robberies and minimum of seven years in prison as to the charge of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the diligent work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New Orleans Violent Crime Task Force, the New Orleans Police Department, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Myles Ranier is handling the prosecution.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program that has been historically successful in bringing together all levels of law enforcement to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safe for everyone.  Former Attorney General Jeff Sessions made turning the tide of rising violent crime in America a top priority.  In October 2017, as part of a series of actions to address this crime trend, then Attorney General Sessions announced the reinvigoration of PSN and directed all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to develop a district crime reduction strategy that incorporates the lessons learned since PSN was launched in 2001.

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WASHINGTON – One of the largest health care fraud schemes investigated by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG) and prosecuted by the Department of Justice resulted in charges against 24 defendants, including the CEOs, COOs and others associated with five telemedicine companies, the owners of dozens of durable medical equipment (DME) companies and three licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud schemes involving more than $1.2 billion in loss, as well as the execution of over 80 search warrants in 17 federal districts.  In addition, the Center for Medicare Services, Center for Program Integrity (CMS/CPI) announced today that it took adverse administrative action against 130 DME companies that had submitted over $1.7 billion in claims and were paid over $900 million.

Assistant Attorney General Brian A. Benczkowski of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Sherri A. Lydon of the District of South Carolina, U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito of the District of New Jersey, U.S. Attorney Maria Chapa Lopez of the Middle District of Florida, Assistant Director Robert Johnson of the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Gary Cantrell of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), Chief Don Fort of the IRS Criminal Investigation (CI) and Deputy Administrator and Director of CPI Alec Alexander of the CMS/CPI made the announcement.

Today’s enforcement actions were led and coordinated by the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section in conjunction with its Medicare Fraud Strike Force (MFSF), as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Districts of South Carolina, New Jersey and the Middle District of Florida.  The MFSF is a partnership among the Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney’s Offices, the FBI and HHS-OIG.  In addition, IRS-CI and other federal law enforcement agencies participated in the operation.

The charges announced today target an alleged scheme involving the payment of illegal kickbacks and bribes by DME companies in exchange for the referral of Medicare beneficiaries by medical professionals working with fraudulent telemedicine companies for back, shoulder, wrist and knee braces that are medically unnecessary.  Certain of the defendants allegedly controlled an international telemarketing network that lured over hundreds of thousands of elderly and/or disabled patients into a criminal scheme that crossed borders, involving call centers in the Philippines and throughout Latin America.  The defendants allegedly paid doctors to prescribe DME either without any patient interaction or with only a brief telephonic conversation with patients they had never met or seen.  The proceeds of the fraudulent scheme were allegedly laundered through international shell corporations and used to purchase exotic automobiles, yachts and luxury real estate in the United States and abroad.

“These defendants — who range from corporate executives to medical professionals — allegedly participated in an expansive and sophisticated fraud to exploit telemedicine technology meant for patients otherwise unable to access health care,” said Assistant Attorney General Benczkowski.  “This Department of Justice will not tolerate medical professionals and executives who look to line their pockets by cheating our health care programs.  I commend the Criminal Division prosecutors and our partners from U.S. Attorney’s Offices and law enforcement agencies across the country for their unrelenting efforts to stop this alleged fraud before more money was stolen from American taxpayers.”

“Simply put, the law applies equally to all in South Carolina,” said U.S. Attorney Sherri Lydon.  “The same spoon that serves indictments on drug dealers, felons in possession of firearms, and corrupt officials will also feed those companies and individuals who engage in Medicare fraud.  White collar crime is not victimless.  All taxpayers will endure the rising cost of health care premiums and out-of-pocket costs as a result of fraud on our Medicare system.  I am honored to stand with our partners at the FBI, HHS-OIG, and IRS-CI, who led this outstanding and nationally significant investigation from right here in South Carolina.”

“The indictments we are unsealing today charge the defendants with running a complex, multilayered scheme to defraud our Medicare system and avoid detection by government regulators,” said U.S. Attorney Craig Carpenito.  “The defendants took advantage of unwitting patients who were simply trying to get relief from their health concerns.  Instead, the defendants preyed upon their weakened state and pushed millions of dollars’ worth of unnecessary medical devices, which Medicare paid for, and then set up an elaborate system for laundering their ill-gotten proceeds. We are proud to join our law enforcement partners in New Jersey and around the country to put a stop to this unscrupulous criminal activity.”

“Protecting the integrity of America’s health care programs is necessary to ensure that our citizens receive the care they have paid for and deserve,” said U.S. Attorney Chapa Lopez.  “The mammoth coordination and cooperation demonstrated among the various offices, districts, and agencies involved in this case leaves no doubt. We will leverage the full weight of our resources to combat fraud and abuse, wherever it is found.”

“Today, one of the largest health care fraud schemes in U.S. history came to an end thanks to close collaboration and coordination between the FBI and partners including HHS-OIG and IRS-CI,” said FBI Assistant Director Robert Johnson.  “Health care fraud causes billions of dollars in losses, it deprives real patients of the critical health care services they need, and it can endanger the lives of real patients so individuals like those arrested today can profit from their criminal activity.  Through today’s coordinated national effort, we put an end to this egregious and costly health care fraud scheme, and the public can rest assured the FBI will continue to make health care fraud investigations a top priority.”

“Our law enforcement officers are focused on preventing and uprooting health care fraud schemes like those alleged today,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Gary Cantrell.  “These schemes divert money from taxpayer-funded federal health care programs into the hands of criminals.  Working closely with our law enforcement partners, our agency will continue to investigate and disrupt attempts to undermine Medicare and target beneficiaries.”

“The breadth of this nationwide conspiracy should be frightening to all who rely on some form of healthcare,” said IRS-CI Chief Don Fort.  “The conspiracy described in this indictment was not perpetrated by one individual.  Rather, it details broad corruption, massive amounts of greed, and systemic flaws in our healthcare system that were exploited by the defendants.  We all suffer when schemes like this go undiscovered and I’m proud of the work our agents did in working with our partners to uncover this complex scheme.”

“The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Center for Program Integrity (CPI) is proud to work very closely everyday with our law enforcement partners to stop exploitation of vulnerable patients and misuse of taxpayer dollars,” said Deputy Administrator and CPI Director Alec Alexander.  “In this case CMS has taken swift administrative action and has suspended payments to 130 distinct providers thereby likely preventing billions of additional dollars in losses.  CMS remains committed to protecting the millions of beneficiaries we are honored to serve and to preventing fraud of all sorts in the Medicare and Medicaid programs.”

According to allegations in court documents, some of the defendants obtained patients for the scheme by using an international call center that advertised to Medicare beneficiaries and “up-sold” the beneficiaries to get them to accept numerous “free or low-cost” DME braces, regardless of medical necessity.  The international call center allegedly paid illegal kickbacks and bribes to telemedicine companies to obtain DME orders for these Medicare beneficiaries.  The telemedicine companies then allegedly paid physicians to write medically unnecessary DME orders.  Finally, the international call center sold the DME orders that it obtained from the telemedicine companies to DME companies, which fraudulently billed Medicare.  Collectively, the CEOs, COOs, executives, business owners and medical professionals involved in the conspiracy are accused of causing over $1 billion in loss.

The Fraud Section leads the Medicare Fraud Strike Force.  Since its inception in March 2007, the Medicare Fraud Strike Force, which maintains 14 strike forces operating in 23 districts, has charged nearly 4,000 defendants who have collectively billed the Medicare program for more than $14 billion.  In addition, the HHS Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the HHS-OIG, are taking steps to increase accountability and decrease the presence of fraudulent providers.

Amongst those charged by Strike Force attorneys include:

In the District of New Jersey, charges were brought against Creaghan Harry, 51, of Highland Beach, Florida; Lester Stockett, 51, of Deefield Beach, Florida; and Elliot Loewenstern, 56, of Boca Raton, Florida; the owner, CEO and VP of marketing, respectively, of purported call centers and telemedicine companies, for their alleged participation in a $454 million illegal health care kickback and international money laundering scheme related to the solicitation of illegal kickbacks and bribes in exchange for the referral of DME orders to DME providers.  In addition, Joseph DeCoroso, M.D., 62, of Toms River, New Jersey, was charged in a $13 million conspiracy to commit health care fraud and separate charges of health care fraud for writing medically unnecessary orders for DME, in many instances without ever speaking to the patients, while working for two telemedicine companies.  The cases are being prosecuted by Fraud Section Acting Assistant Chief Jacob Foster and Trial Attorney Darren Halverson.

In the Middle District of Florida, charges were brought against Willie McNeal, 42, of Spring Hill, Florida, the owner and CEO of two purported telemedicine companies, for his alleged participation in a $250 million scheme related to the solicitation of illegal kickbacks and bribes in exchange for the referral of DME orders to DME providers.  The case is being prosecuted by Fraud Section Acting Assistant Chief Jacob Foster and Trial Attorneys John Michelich, Catherine Wagner and Sara Clingan.

In the Northern District of Texas, charges were brought against Leah Hagen, 48, and Michael Hagen, 51, of Dalworthington Gardens, Texas, owners and operators of two DME companies, for their alleged participation in a $17 million illegal health care kickback scheme related to the payment of kickbacks in exchange for the referral of medically unnecessary DME orders.  The case is being prosecuted by Fraud Section Trial Attorneys Brynn Schiess and Carlos Lopez.

In the Western District of Texas, Christopher O’Hara, 54, of Kingsbury, Texas, the owner of a purported telemedicine company, was charged in an $40 million scheme related to the alleged solicitation of illegal kickbacks and bribes in exchange for the referral of DME orders to DME providers.  The case is being prosecuted by Fraud Section Trial Attorney Kevin Lowell.

In the Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Randy Swackhammer, M.D., 60, of Goldsboro, North Carolina, was charged for an alleged $5 million conspiracy to commit health care fraud that involved writing medically unnecessary orders for DME while working for a telemedicine company, in many instances with only a brief telephonic conversation with the patients.  The case is being prosecuted by Fraud Section Trial Attorney Adam Yoffie.

In the Central District of California, charges were brought against Darin Flashberg, 41, of Glendora, California, and Najib Jabbour, 47, of Glendora, California, owners of seven DME companies, for their alleged participation in a $34 million scheme related to their payment of kickbacks and bribes in exchange for medically unnecessary DME orders.  The case is being prosecuted by Fraud Section Trial Attorney Robyn Pullio.

In addition to the Strike Force prosecutions, other enforcement actions were taken, including the execution of search warrants to support related investigative efforts in seven additional U.S. Attorney’s Offices to include in various investigations conducted by the District of New Jersey, District of South Carolina, Southern District of California, District of Nebraska, Middle District of Florida, Eastern District of Missouri and Western District of Washington.

In the District of South Carolina, charges were brought against Andrew Chmiel, 43, of Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina, owner of over a dozen companies involved in the scheme, for his alleged participation in a $200 million scheme related to the payment of kickbacks and bribes in exchange for medically unnecessary DME orders.  The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jim May and Will Lewis of the District of South Carolina.

In the District of New Jersey, charges were brought against Neal Williamsky 59, of Marlboro, New Jersey, and Nadia Levit, 39, of Englishtown, New Jersey, owners of approximately 25 DME companies, for their alleged participation in a $150 million scheme related to the payment of kickbacks and bribes in exchange for medically unnecessary DME orders.  Albert Davydov, 26, of Rego Park, New York, was also charged for his alleged participation in a $35 million scheme related to the payment of kickbacks and bribes in exchange for medically unnecessary DME orders.  The cases are being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brian Urbano and Stephen Ferketic of the District of New Jersey.

In the Middle District of Florida, search and seizure warrants are being executed at 20 different business locations, including numerous DME companies and a fraudulent telemarketing company. The search and seizures are being executed by over 100 law enforcement officers from six federal agencies, including HHS-OIG, FBI, IRS-CI, VA-OIG, SSA-OIG, and USPS-OIG.  In addition to the 20 search warrants, millions of dollars and other assets tied to the conspiracy are being seized and/or frozen, including through a civil injunction naming 13 defendants as authorized under 18 U.S.C. § 1345.

The cases announced today are being prosecuted and investigated by U.S. Attorney’s Offices nationwide, along with MFSF teams from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and from the U.S. Attorney’s Offices in the District of New Jersey, District of South Carolina, Southern District of California, District of Nebraska, Middle District of Florida, Eastern District of Missouri and Western District of Washington; and agents from the FBI, HHS-OIG, IRS-CI and other federal law enforcement agencies.

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

Any doctors or medical professionals who have been involved with alleged fraudulent telemedicine and DME marketing schemes – including Video Doctor USA, AffordADoc, Web Doctors Plus, Integrated Support Plus and First Care MD – should call to report this conduct to the FBI hotline at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Additional documents related to this announcement will shortly be available here: https://www.justice.gov/opa/documents-and-resources-april-9-2019-press-release-health-care-fraud.

McALLEN, Texas – A 40-year-old Donna man has been ordered to federal prison following his conviction of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute more than 100 kilograms of marijuana, announced U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Patrick. Juan Fernando Mata pleaded guilty Jan. 9, 2019.

Today, U.S. District Judge Micaela Alvarez ordered Mata to serve 130 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by four years of supervised release.

At the hearing, Judge Alvarez considered Mata’s role in assisting members of a “rip crew” by conducting fraudulent traffic stops on drug load vehicles so that members of that crew could steal the controlled substances.

Specifically, the court considered Mata’s role in conducting traffic stops in January 2016 and another in May 2017, to assist members in stealing approximately nine kilograms of cocaine and approximately 400 pounds of marijuana, respectfully,

The court also heard allegations were made about Mata assisting members of a second “rip crew” by conducting similar activity.

In pronouncing the sentence today, Judge Alvarez noted that while the rip crew members’ conduct in conducting home invasions and carjackings was reprehensible, Mata’s conduct could also be described as such. The court stated how Mata’s actions eroded the public trust and the sense of security in knowing that law enforcement officers are individuals that can be turned to in the event of a home invasion or other criminal conduct. Judge Alvarez noted that when any law enforcement officer commits criminal conduct, it effects law enforcement as a whole and gives the area a bad name. 

In considering the many letters of support for Mata, including the City of Donna Mayor and employees of Donna Independent School District, the court noted its concern with individuals viewing him as a role model. She stated that it speaks to poor principles when someone sworn to uphold and enforce the law completely disregards it.

Mata was permitted to remain on bond and voluntarily surrender to a U.S. Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.

The FBI and Drug Enforcement Administration conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol and Hidalgo County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Roberto Lopez Jr. and K. Alejandra Andrade prosecuted the case.

NEW ORLEANS –U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser announced that CHARLES BROWN, age 30, of New Orleans, pled guilty Thursday, April 4, 2019 to felon in possession of a firearm.

According to court documents, BROWN had another individual purchase a firearm for him from the Jefferson Gun Outlet on or about July 27, 2018.  That same day, BROWN was stopped in a vehicle while he was in possession of that firearm.  BROWN was prohibited from possessing firearms because of a felony conviction. 

BROWN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of ten years, a fine of $250,000, three years of supervised release after imprisonment, and a $100 special assessment.  U.S. District Court Judge Ashe set sentencing for July 11, 2019.

U. S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office in investigating this matter.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Maria M. Carboni.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – SANDRA RAVEN, age 53, a resident of Laplace, Louisiana, pled guilty Thursday, April 4, 2019 to one count of wire fraud before the Honorable Barry W. Ashe. Sentencing is scheduled for July 11, 2019 at 1:30 p.m.

According to Court documents, RAVEN owned and operated S & R Tax Service out of her home in LaPlace, Louisiana. Beginning in 2012, RAVEN filed fraudulent tax returns with the IRS in the names of others. The tax returns claimed false wages, and RAVEN directed the tax refunds and tax preparation fees to her custody and control.   

RAVEN faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, a maximum period of (3) three years supervised release and a $250,000 fine.

U.S. Attorney Strasser praised the work of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigations Division for its work in investigating this case. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U. S. Attorney G. Dall Kammer, Supervisor, General Crimes.

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KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – In observance of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, April 7-13, 2019, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Tennessee will be participating in several events across the district including:

• A bell ringing ceremony to honor victims of crime, “Honoring Our Past – Creating Hope for the Future,” at Chester Foster Park in Chattanooga on Tuesday, April 9, 2019. 

• A Crime Victims’ Right Ceremony at the Cocke County Courthouse on Wednesday, April 10, 2019, sponsored by Fourth Judicial District Attorney General James Dunn.

• A Crime Victims’ Tree Planting Ceremony on Friday, April 12, 2019, at  Memorial Park Community Center in Johnson City, Tennessee.

“Victims of crime deserve justice. This Department works every day to help them recover and to find, prosecute, and convict those who have done them harm,” said Attorney General William P. Barr. “During this National Crime Victims’ Rights Week, we pause to remember the millions of Americans who have been victims of crime and we thank public servants who have served them in especially heroic ways. This week the men and women of the Department recommit ourselves once again to ensuring that crime victims continue to have a voice in our legal system, to securing justice for them, and to preventing other Americans from suffering what they have endured."       

“National Crime Victims’ Rights Week is a time to reflect on the history of the victims’ rights movement, celebrate its progress, and renew commitments to ensure all victims of crime have the rights and services they need to recover and receive the justice they deserve,” said U.S. Attorney J. Douglas Overbey. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office has dedicated victim-witness personnel who serve federal crime victims across the district’s 41 counties. Our prosecutors are also committed to supporting and providing service to victims of all federal crimes, including violent crimes, fraud, identity theft, human trafficking, elder abuse and exploitation, and sexual crimes against children.”     

Each year in April, the Department of Justice and U.S. Attorneys’ offices observe National Crime Victims’ Rights Week nationwide by taking time to honor victims of crime and those who advocate on their behalf. In addition, the Justice Department and U.S. Attorneys’ offices organize events to honor the victims and advocates, as well as bring awareness to services available to victims of crime. This year’s observance takes place April 7-13, with the theme: Honoring Our Past. Creating Hope for the Future.

The U.S. Department of Justice will host the Office for Victims of Crime’s annual National Crime Victims’ Service Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. on April 12, 2019, to honor outstanding individuals and programs that serve victims of crime.

The Department of Justice’s Office for Victims of Crime, within the Office of Justice Programs, leads communities across the country in observing National Crime Victims’ Rights Week each year. President Ronald Reagan proclaimed the first National Crime Victims’ Rights Week in 1981 to bring greater sensitivity to the needs and rights of victims of crime.

The Office of Justice Programs provides innovative leadership to federal, state, local, and tribal justice systems, by disseminating state-of-the art knowledge and practices across America, and providing grants for the implementation of these crime-fighting strategies. Because most of the responsibility for crime control and prevention falls to law enforcement officers in states, cities, and neighborhoods, the federal government can be effective in these areas only to the extent that it can enter into partnerships with these officers. More information about the Office of Justice Programs and its components can be found at www.ojp.gov. More information about Crime Victim’s Rights Week can be found at https://ovc.ncjrs.gov/ncvrw/. You may also contact the U.S. Attorney’s Victim Witness Program at 865-545-4167.

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NEW ORLEANS, LOUISIANA – FRANCISCO JAVIER NUNEZ-ALEMAN, age 32, a citizen of Mexico pled guilty to a two-count indictment Wednesday, April 3, 2019 for illegal use of a Social Security Number in violation of Title 42, United States Code, Section 408(a)(7)(B) and using a false social security number in attempting to secure a U.S. Passport, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1542.  He is set for sentencing on July 10, 2019.

U.S. Attorney Peter G. Strasser praised the work of the United States Department of Homeland Security and the U.S. State Department Diplomatic Security Service in investigating this matter.  Assistant U.S. Attorney Carter K.D. Guice, Jr. is in charge of the prosecution.

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