Charleston Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Distribution

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – Dante Williams, 24, of Charleston, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.

According to court documents, Williams sold two ounces of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on January 14, 2021. Williams arranged to first meet the informant in the parking lot of the Family Dollar store on Charleston’s West Side, but then directed the informant to follow him to Swinburn Street where the transaction took place. Williams also admitted that he fronted the informant an additional two ounces of methamphetamine for which Williams would be paid later.

Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Charleston Police Department, the Metropolitan Drug Enforcement Network Team (MDENT), the U.S. Marshals Service and the West Virginia State Police.

Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr. imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Monica Coleman handled the prosecution.

The investigation was part of the Department of Justice’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF). OCDETF was established in 1982 to conduct comprehensive, multilevel attacks on major drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and is the keystone of the Department of Justice’s drug reduction strategy. Today, OCDETF combines the resources and expertise of its member federal agencies in cooperation with state and local law enforcement. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking organizations, transnational criminal organizations, and money laundering organizations that present a significant threat to the public safety, economic, or national security of the United States.

A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of West Virginia. Related court documents and information can be found on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:21-cr-00032 (Williams, et al.).

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Department of Justice Press Releases

Point Pleasant Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Child Sex Trafficking Offense

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

CHARLESTON, W.Va. – A Point Pleasant man was sentenced today to 10 years in prison for attempted sex trafficking of a minor. Dale Randall McCarthy, Jr., 51, pleaded guilty to the offense in May 2021.

According to the plea agreement and statements made in court, McCarthy admitted that on August 8, 2020, he agreed with a man he met online to pay $100 to have sex with a 14-year-old girl that would be supplied by the other man. McCarthy met with the man at a motel in Dunbar and paid the man $40 up front for sex with the girl, with the remainder to be paid after the sexual activity. After paying the man $40, McCarthy was placed under arrest. McCarthy further admitted that he had previously used Craigslist to communicate with minors about meeting for sexual activity. In one such conversation, McCarthy admitted to requesting and receiving a sexually explicit image of a person who stated they were a minor.

Upon release from prison, McCarthy will be placed on federal supervised release for a period of 10 years and will be required to register as a sex offender.

Acting United States Attorney Lisa G. Johnston made the announcement and commended the investigative work of the FBI Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.

Senior United States District Judge John T. Copenhaver, Jr., imposed the sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Rada Herrald handled the prosecution.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative of the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s 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 those 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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Department of Justice Press Releases

Robber Who Donned Medical Masks During String of Heists that Targeted Pharmacies Sentenced to over Nine Years in Federal Prison

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

RIVERSIDE, California – A Riverside County man with a three-decade history of crimes was sentenced this afternoon to 110 months in federal prison for a month-long robbery spree of pharmacies in the Inland Empire while wearing medical masks.

David Anthony Battle, 50, of Moreno Valley, was sentenced by United States District Judge Jesus G. Bernal after pleading guilty on March 25 to six felony counts of interference with commerce by robbery (Hobbs Act robbery).

“In this case, [Battle] exploited a public health crisis by robbing essential businesses while concealing his face behind a medical mask,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memorandum filed with the court.

According to court documents, from July 6 through August 10, 2020, Battle robbed six pharmacies – Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid outlets – in Moreno Valley, Colton and San Bernardino. He also attempted to rob two other Moreno Valley pharmacies.

During each incident, Battle wore similar clothing – including medical masks covering his nose and mouth – and brandished what appeared to be a handgun, Battle admitted in court. He then demanded that money from the cash register be placed in a bag and handed over.

When he was arrested during an attempted robbery of a Moreno Valley Walgreens, Battle was carrying a black BB gun with labeled with “Glock” logos on the barrel and the grip, court documents state.

Battle netted $5,453 in illicit gains from the robberies, more than half of which came from a July 6 robbery of a Walgreens store in Moreno Valley.

Since 1989, Battle has sustained 46 felony convictions and has been sentenced to a total of 66 years of incarceration, “and his history shows that he has been incapable of rehabilitation,” according to the sentencing memo. Prosecutors noted that Battle previously has been found guilty of violent crimes, including a 1994 conviction for false imprisonment by violence while impersonating an officer – one of seven convictions where his conduct involved impersonating a police officer or fire official.

“Although he gained thousands of dollars through his robberies, the traumatic impact of [Battle]’s crimes is much more consequential than his selfish monetary gains,” according to the sentencing memo. “Indeed, though it is impossible to quantify the true psychological and mental harms caused by [his] crimes – the medical expenses for just two of the victims has already reached $29,000. That amount reflects a fraction of the harm the victims have suffered.”

The FBI, the Riverside County Sheriff’s Department, the San Bernardino Police Department, and the Colton Police Department investigated this matter.

Assistant United States Attorney Peter H. Dahlquist of the Riverside Branch Office prosecuted this case.

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Department of Justice Press Releases

Former Director of Operations at Stockton Biofuel Company Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Illegally Dumping Industrial Wastewater

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

SACRAMENTO, Calif. — Christopher Young, 45, of El Dorado Hills, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Kimberly J. Mueller to 18 months in prison and a $50,000 fine for tampering with monitoring equipment, unlawful discharge of industrial wastewater, and conspiracy, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

Young was Director of Operations for Community Fuels from 2010 to 2016. Community Fuels is registered in San Joaquin County by American Biodiesel Inc. and manufactured biodiesel fuel on property leased from the Port of Stockton

According to court documents, Young participated in a scheme to discharge hundreds of thousands of gallons of polluted wastewater by various unlawful means, including the discharge of wastewater directly into Stockton’s sewer system after tampering with pH sensors and discharge flow monitors to hide evidence of the dumping. Young also directed others to cause a discharge on various dates using improvised hidden hoses and pipes that ultimately connected to the city’s sewer system.

The City of Stockton issued wastewater permits to American Biodiesel that allowed the limited discharge of wastewater into the sewer system under specific standards—a limitation on the total volume discharged per month, an allowable range of pH readings, and a restriction on the concentration of methanol. American Biodiesel had previously represented to the City of Stockton that unpermitted wastewater would be transported offsite to an appropriate facility for treatment. Young’s actions circumvented these restrictions through equipment tampering and unauthorized dumping.

In one instance in 2016, the City of Stockton conducted a surprise inspection and found plant personnel engaged in a procedure that misreported the pH level data and the flow rate of wastewater being discharged into the Stockton sewer system. The City issued an immediate cease and desist order. Young then met with the city inspectors and told them that the discharge was an accident and employees had been disciplined for the act. But later, Young sent an email instructing an employee to restart the wastewater dumping into the sewer because inspectors were unlikely to appear after hours.

“Violating the environmental laws of the United States can carry criminal consequences, potentially including time in prison,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Talbert. “Protecting the environment for our community and future generations is critical, and those who violate our environmental laws will be held accountable.”

“Our nation’s environmental laws are designed to protect our communities, natural resources, and critical infrastructure from hazardous pollutants,” said Special Agent in Charge Scot Adair of EPA’s criminal investigation program in California. “The sentencing outcomes in this case demonstrate that companies and individuals that intentionally violate those laws will be held responsible for their crimes.”

On July 8, 2019, Judge Mueller sentenced American Biodiesel for violations of the Clean Water Act when it allowed the discharge of industrial wastewater into the City of Stockton sewer system. American Biodiesel admitted to tampering with monitoring devices and methods designed to detect such violations, and admitted that employees tampered with pH recordings and flow meters for the purpose of underreporting acid and pollutant levels and volumes that would have exceeded the figures allowed under the city’s regulations.

This case was the product of an investigation by the EPA’s Criminal Investigation Division, the San Joaquin County District Attorney’s Office, the City of Stockton Municipal Utilities Department, the San Joaquin County Environmental Health Department, the Port of Stockton, and the California Department of Toxic Substances Control. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip A. Scarborough and Paul Hemesath prosecuted the case.

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Fresno Man Sentenced to 6.5 Years in Prison for Dealing Fentanyl Pills and Illegally Possessing Firearm

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

FRESNO, Calif. — Morgan Wency Ventura Sanchez, 24, of Fresno, was sentenced today to six years and six months in prison for possessing hundreds of fentanyl pills with intent to distribute them and illegally possessing a firearm in furtherance of the offense, Acting U.S. Attorney Phillip A. Talbert announced.

According to court documents, in August 2020 federal and local law enforcement officers were investigating Ventura Sanchez for dealing fentanyl pills. On Aug. 24, 2020, officers searched Ventura Sanchez’s car, person, and residence and found hundreds of fentanyl pills, as well as other controlled substances, including heroin, cocaine, and marijuana. Officers also found a loaded firearm close to Ventura Sanchez’s drug stash. Ventura Sanchez was arrested and pleaded guilty to federal drug and gun charges.

This case was the product of an investigation by the Fentanyl Overdose Resolution Team, a multi‑agency team composed of Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Fresno Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin J. Gilio prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Synthetic Opioid Surge (S.O.S.) a program designed to reduce the supply of deadly synthetic opioids in high impact areas as well as identifying wholesale distribution networks and international and domestic suppliers. In July 2018, the Justice Department announced the creation of S.O.S., which is being implemented in the Eastern District of California and nine other federal districts.

This case was prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, 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.

https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/video/psa-national-center-disaster-fraud

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Department of Justice Press Releases

Pierre Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Meth

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

Acting United States Attorney Dennis R. Holmes announced that a Pierre, South Dakota, man convicted of Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on October 4, 2021, by Chief Judge Roberto A. Lange, U.S. District Court.

Daniel James Boe, age 36, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, $1,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.

Boe was indicted for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance by a federal grand jury on December 8. 2020. He pled guilty on July 15, 2021.

Beginning in January of 2017, Boe was involved in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in and around the Pierre area and central South Dakota. Boe was involved with the distribution of 200-350 grams of methamphetamine.

This case was investigated by the Northern Plains Safe Trails Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meghan Dilges prosecuted the case.

Boe was immediately turned over to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.

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Department of Justice Press Releases

Port Angeles, Washington, man sentenced to home confinement, probation for assaulting helicopter crew with high-powered laser

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

Tacoma – A 36-year-old Port Angeles, Washington, man pleaded guilty and was sentenced this morning to probation and home confinement in connection with a September 26, 2016, laser pointer strike on a U.S. Coast Guard helicopter, announced Acting U.S. Attorney Tessa M. Gorman. Randall Muck pleaded guilty to misdemeanor assault on a federal officer. U.S. District Judge Benjamin H. Settle told Muck, “What you did was extremely reckless, even if you didn’t intend to strike the helicopter.” Judge Settle ordered Muck to be on 90 days home confinement with electronic monitoring as part of his one-year period of probation.

Muck was indicted in May 2019, charged with aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft and making false statements to government agents. In pleading guilty to assault on a federal agent, Muck admitted that on the evening of September 26, 2016, he pointed a high-powered laser beam at a Coast Guard helicopter. According to reports of the incident, the MH-65 Dolphin helicopter was descending when it was hit by a laser that originated near Fourth and Hill Streets in Port Angeles. Laser light can cause temporary loss of vision and force an air crew to abort its mission. In this incident, no one suffered permanent damage, but the crew had to return to base and be assessed medically before returning to duty. In the sentencing memo, prosecutors noted that because the helicopter crew was grounded for a time, the region was without a local emergency response helicopter crew.

Sentencing documents reveal Muck was identified as a suspect, when coworkers reported he had been bragging about the incident at work. Later when Muck learned of the criminal investigation, he made statements that co-workers should not report his involvement to law enforcement, or he would retaliate. Muck is no longer employed by that company.

The case was investigated by U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service and the FBI. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Grady Leupold and Erika Evans.

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Indian River County Armed Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Federal Prison Term

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

Miami, Florida – Today, a South Florida federal district judge sentenced a Vero Beach drug dealer who drove around town with fentanyl, a loaded semi-automatic firearm, and tens of thousands of dollars in cash to 106 months in federal prison.

On February 23, 2020, law enforcement officers arrested 34-year-old Burnell Heiges Emlet, III, after finding him slumped over the steering wheel of a car that was sitting at a stop light. With him inside car, Emlet had a loaded semi-automatic firearm with a large capacity magazine, as well as 76 prepacked baggies of fentanyl. Emlet was charged with state crimes and released on bond. Officers arrested Emlet again on May 22, 2020, following a traffic stop. This time, Emlet had 1,700 prepackaged baggies of fentanyl and more than $55,000 in cash with him inside the car. After this arrest, Emlet’s state bond was revoked.

In 2021, a federal grand jury in the Southern District of Florida charged Emlet with federal gun and drug trafficking crimes relating to the February 2020 arrest. A federal magistrate judge ordered him detained pre-trial, without bond. On July 15, 2021, Emlet pled guilty in federal district court to possessing with intent to distribute fentanyl and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. U.S. District Judge Donald M. Middlebrooks imposed today’s sentence.

Juan Antonio Gonzalez, Acting U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Florida; La Verne J. Hibbert; Acting Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, Miami Field Division; and David E. Currey, Chief of Police, Vero Beach Police Department, announced the sentence.

DEA Miami and Vero Beach PD investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michael D. Porter prosecuted it.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 21-cr-14012.

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Thibodaux Man Sentenced to 24 Months in Prison for Violations 0f the Federal Gun Control Act

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

NEW ORLEANS, LA – U.S. Attorney Duane A. Evans announced that DONOVAN DIRON JOHNSON (“JOHNSON”), age 27, of Thibodaux, Louisiana was sentenced to imprisonment on September 29, 2021 in federal court before U.S. District Court Judge Jay C. Zainey for being a person convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence found in possession of a firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(9).

According to court documents, on February 1, 2017, JOHNSON was found in possession of a Glock Model 22, .40 caliber pistol with an extended magazine.

Judge Zainey sentenced JOHNSON to 24 months imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 mandatory special assessment fee.

This case is being prosecuted as part of the joint federal, state, and local Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) Program, 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.

The U.S. Attorney’s Office praised the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Thibodaux Police Department.

The prosecution of the case was handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Kathryn McHugh.

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Department of Justice Press Releases

Kansas Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Engaging in $900,000 Foreign Currency Ponzi Scheme

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

NEWARK, N.J. – A Kansas man who executed an elaborate foreign currency Ponzi scheme that took in more than $900,000 from investors was sentenced today to 36 months in prison, Acting U.S. Attorney Rachael Honig announced.

Thomas Lanzana, 54, of Wichita, Kansas, previously pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge John Michael Vazquez to Count One of an indictment charging him with wire fraud. Judge Vazquez imposed the sentence today in Newark federal court.

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

Lanzana fraudulently solicited approximately $900,000 from at least 20 customers to invest in what he claimed were highly successful, algorithm-based trading pools in foreign currency derivatives (“forex”) and other financial instruments.

To maintain the victims’ trust, Lanzana sent false account statements to his customers, posted false monthly account statements to his companies’ websites showing balances and trading activity for forex trading accounts that did not exist, and generated and sent false tax documents to customers reporting earnings that did not exist.

Lanzana misappropriated hundreds of thousands of dollars in investor funds, using some to repay earlier investors in the manner of a Ponzi scheme, and to pay for his personal expenses, including purchases on Amazon.com, payments to a luxury car dealer and a jewelry retailer, and golf expenses.

In addition to the prison term, Judge Vazquez sentenced Lanzana to three years of supervised release.

Acting U.S. Attorney Honig credited special agents of the FBI, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge George M. Crouch Jr., and special agents of IRS-Criminal Investigation, under the direction of Special Agent in Charge Michael Montanez in Newark, with the investigation leading to today’s sentencing. She also thanked the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission’s Division of Enforcement for its assistance.

The government is represented by Assistant U.S. Attorney Anthony P. Torntore of the U.S. Attorney’s Office’s Cybercrime Unit.

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Murphy administration targets businesses who ask job applicants about their criminal history

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

TRENTON – Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck and Commissioner of the Department of Labor and Workforce Development Robert Asaro-Angelo announced today that fifteen companies have agreed to stop including language about applicants’ criminal history in their job advertisements and/or make other changes to their hiring practices, following an enforcement sweep under New Jersey’s Opportunity to Compete Act or “ban the box” law.

The Opportunity to Compete Act reduces obstacles to employment for people with criminal records by, among other things, barring covered employers from making inquiries regarding a candidate’s criminal history during the initial employment application process and prohibiting them from stating in job advertisements that candidates will not be considered if they have criminal records.

The actions being announced today are part of the largest-ever enforcement sweep under the Opportunity to Compete Act and reflect the Murphy Administration’s commitment to eradicating racial disparities that have been allowed to exist for too long. People of color make up less than half the state’s population but more than three-quarters of its prison population. Because of such racial disparities in the criminal justice system, restrictions on job opportunities for those with criminal histories can fall disproportionately on people of color.

“Here in New Jersey, we believe that a criminal record shouldn’t be a permanent barrier to employment, and that once you’ve paid your debt to society, you’re entitled to a fair shake when looking for work,” said Acting Attorney General Bruck. “With the enforcement sweep we’re announcing today, we’re sending a clear message to employers that they need to comply with the law, so that people with criminal records can reintegrate into the community, join the workforce, and provide for themselves and their families.”

“Once a person has completed their sentence and has returned to their community, it is incumbent upon us to remove barriers to employment, and to provide job training and career support,” added Commissioner Asaro-Angelo. “Research has shown that a steady job is a strong deterrent to recidivism, and without meaningful work, individuals with prior justice system involvement often recidivate.”

The Opportunity to Compete Act is designed to aid persons with criminal histories to reintegrate into the community, become productive members of the workforce, and provide for their families and themselves.

The law generally prohibits employers from requiring that a job applicant complete any form during the initial application process that asks about their criminal record. It also prohibits an employer from making any oral or written inquiry regarding an applicant’s criminal record during the initial employment application process, which ends when the employer has conducted a first interview.

In addition, the law bars employers from soliciting applicants for jobs through advertising that says the employer will not consider anyone who has a criminal record, with certain exceptions (e.g., where the employment sought or being considered is for a position where a criminal background check is required by law).

Three of the fifteen companies reaching agreements with the State entered into Assurances of Voluntary Compliance after the Department of Labor and Workforce Development found them to have violated the Opportunity to Compete Act and issued them Notices of Violation. All were found to have violated the law’s ban on the use of language in employment advertising that explicitly states that the employer will not consider an applicant who has been arrested or convicted of one or more crimes or offenses.

The companies entering into Assurances of Voluntary Compliance are:

Under the agreements with the three companies, they must immediately cease any employment advertising that excludes applicants with criminal backgrounds, adopt written policies that are fully compliant with the OTCA, and pay penalties.

Each of the three companies was initially assessed a $1,000 penalty, which was reduced to $250 in light of their good faith cooperation with the investigation and pledges of future compliance. In each case, the unlawful advertising posted by the three employers will be considered a “first violation” and taken into account in setting penalties should any future violations occur.

In addition to the three companies entering into Assurances of Voluntary Compliance after being found in violation of the law, a dozen more companies have agreed to change their job advertising practices without any finding of wrongdoing by them.

Ten of the twelve employers have agreed to eliminate language concerning applicants’ criminal history from their job advertisements going forward, and two have agreed to include explicit explanations of applicable background check requirements. Additionally, one of the twelve companies has agreed to modify their online job application form in use.

These changes to the companies’ job advertisements are designed to reduce the likelihood that individuals with criminal histories will be deterred from applying for employment.

Director of the Division of Wage and Hour Enforcement David Biglin handled this matter for the Department of Labor and Workforce Development. Assistant Attorney General Mayur P. Saxena, Section Chief Peter A. Basso, and Deputy Attorneys General Mary E. Kenah and John-Paul Proctor of the Affirmative Civil Rights and Labor Enforcement Section in the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group represented the Department of Labor and Workforce Development in this matter.

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Five Essex County Gas Stations Agree to Pirce Gouging Settlement

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

NEWARK – Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck today announced that the Division of Consumer Affairs has reached a settlement agreement for more than $138,000 involving five Essex County gas stations that were found to be overcharging consumers, including by selling regular fuel as premium.

The agreement resolves the investigation led by the Division’s Office of Weights and Measures and Office of Consumer Protection into violations of multiple New Jersey consumer protection laws and regulations following unannounced fuel quality inspections at several gas stations.

In addition to making a monetary payment, K.P. Fuel Corp., BK Fuel, Inc., DS Fuel Corp., Millennium Fuel, Inc., and Harb and Parm, Inc. d/b/a Power Services Center, and their owner Sukhdev Singh of Belleville, have agreed to display the accurate price of any motor fuel they offer or sell and not to misrepresent one grade of fuel as another.

“New Jersey drivers should be able to fill their gas tanks without getting taken for a ride,” said Acting Attorney General Bruck. “Gas stations are on notice that we won’t stand for them cheating their customers.” The sale of regular gas as premium not only causes consumers to overpay but also threatens damage to their vehicles.

The majority of cars on the road today run on regular gas, but some vehicles require premium, which contains higher levels of octane and typically costs about 50 cents more per gallon. Regular gasoline in a vehicle designed to use premium can self-ignite. This can lead to a persistent knocking sound in the engine and, in severe cases, can cause significant engine damage such as broken connecting rods, melted pistons, or other damaged components.

“Whether consumers choose regular or premium gasoline for their vehicles, we want them to know that our office is committed to ensure that they get what they pay for at the pump,” said Acting Director of Consumer Affairs Sean P. Neafsey. “I applaud the Office of Weights and Measures for their diligent fuel quality inspections and everyone responsible for implementing greater accountability.”

The Division conducted its inspections between July 31, 2019 and September 25, 2020.

Its investigation concerned violations of the Consumer Fraud Act; the Weights and Measures Act; the Motor Fuels Act; the Regulations Governing the Retail Sale of Motor Fuels; and the Scales, Instruments and Devices Regulations.

The respondent gas stations are:

Under the terms of the Consent Order, the respondents also agreed to maintain weighing and measuring devices in proper operating condition at the gas stations, to exhibit all required documentation for inspection and examination, and to comply with all state and federal laws and regulations.

The total settlement of over $138,000 includes $114,200 in civil penalties and $24,319 in investigative costs and attorneys’ fees. Under the terms of the Order, $27,519 in civil penalties are suspended and will be automatically vacated after one year if the respondents comply with the terms of the Order. Deputy Attorney General Jeffrey Koziar of the Consumer Fraud Prosecution Section within the Division of Law’s Affirmative Civil Enforcement Practice Group represented the State in the matter. Supervisor James Wilton from the Office of Weights and Measures and Investigator Roger Hines of the Office of Consumer Protection within the Division of Consumer Affairs conducted the investigation. Inspector Bryan Thomson from the Office of Weights and Measures was responsible for identifying the octane deficiencies and gathering documentation for the investigation.

Consumers who believe they have been cheated or scammed by a business, or suspect any other form of consumer abuse, can file an online complaint with the Division of Consumer Affairs by visiting its website or by calling 1-800-242-5846 to receive a complaint form by mail.

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The mission of the Division of Consumer Affairs, within the Department of Law and Public Safety, is to protect the public from fraud, deceit, misrepresentation and professional misconduct in the sale of goods and services in New Jersey through education, advocacy, regulation and enforcement. The Division pursues its mission through its 51 professional and occupational boards that oversee 720,000 licensees in the state, its Regulated Business section that oversees 60,000 NJ registered businesses, as well as through its Office of Consumer Protection, Bureau of Securities, Charities Registration section, Office of Weights and Measures, and Legalized Games of Chance section.

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AG Investigating After Suspect Died in Paterson Police Custody

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

Paterson, N.J. – The Attorney General’s Office is investigating the death of a man who was the subject of a police response yesterday in Paterson, N.J. The identity of the decedent is not being released at this time.

At approximately 5:26 p.m. yesterday, Oct. 2, the Paterson Police Department received multiple 911 calls from the 600 block of Madison Avenue Paterson, N.J., regarding a man walking on the roofs and attempting to break into homes. Officers of the Paterson Police Department and medical personnel responded to the area of 620 Madison Ave. and encountered a man who appeared injured at the exterior rear of the residence. Two officers of the Paterson Police Department attempted to aid the injured man. The man was agitated and officers briefly handcuffed him to permit them to secure him and get him onto a stretcher. Medical and police personnel placed the man on the stretcher and he was taken to St. Joseph’s University Medical Center, where he was pronounced deceased at 6:22 p.m.

This investigation is being conducted pursuant to Attorney General Directive 2019-4, which implements the statutory requirement that the Attorney General’s Office conduct the investigation of any death that occurs during an encounter with a law enforcement officer acting in the officer’s official capacity or while the decedent is in custody, and which establishes clear standards and procedures for conducting such investigations.

The investigation is ongoing and no further information is being released at this time.

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Division of Highway Traffic Safety’s “Design Your Own Destiny” Art Contest to Raise Awareness of Distracted Driving

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

NEW JERSEY – Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck and the Division of Highway Traffic Safety (“HTS”) today announced a statewide art contest for adults and teens to promote its ongoing “Take Control of Your Destiny” distracted driving public awareness campaign. Winners will have their art displayed on HTS’s social media channels as part of the campaign.

The “Design Your Own Destiny” contest, which begins today, invites New Jersey residents ages 15 and up to create their own version of the colorful steering wheels showcased in the innovative “Take Control of Your Destiny” campaign that launched in April 2021. The wheels, which depict life milestones like graduation, marriage, and pursuing creative and professional interests, are accompanied by the tagline “You Have Places to Go. Don’t Drive Distracted.”

Since its launch, the campaign’s message has reached millions through print, digital, and radio advertisements.

“The Take Control of Your Destiny campaign has been hugely successful and we’re excited to invite the public to become part of it,” said Acting Attorney General Bruck. “The contest is a creative way to raise awareness of districted driving and engage drivers of all ages in the efforts to prevent fatalities on New Jersey roadways.”

The Department of Education is promoting the campaign in high schools throughout the state to help raise awareness among new and soon-to-be drivers of the dangers of distracted driving.

According to New Jersey State Police statistics, distracted driving was to blame for more than a quarter of the fatal crashes that occurred in New Jersey from 2015 through 2019, claiming the lives of 730 drivers, passengers, pedestrians, and bicyclists. During that same five-year period, more than half of all crashes in the state– both fatal and non-fatal – involved a distracted driver.

“The contest, like the campaign, is aimed at inspiring drivers to stay focused on what lies ahead – literally and figuratively – every time they get behind the wheel,” said Eric Heitmann, Director of the Division of Highway Traffic Safety. “Designing their own wheels will help drivers of all ages take stock of what matters most to them and encourage them to avoid risky behaviors– like driving distracted – that can bring a sudden and tragic end to those hopes and dreams.”

HTS will provide contestants with a steering wheel template (downloadable from the contest webpage) to design using crayons, paint, colored pencils, computer generated software, or any other medium they choose.

Deadline for contest submissions is December 1, 2021. There will be two winning steering wheel designs chosen from the following age groups:

Winners will be announced in January 2022, and the winning wheels will be posted on the HTS’s Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram social media pages, along with the corresponding winner’s name and hometown.

For more information, including a complete list of contest rules and information on how to submit entries, go to www.njsaferoads.com and click on the Design Your Own Destiny contest link.

October 4, 2021 0 comments

Community News New Jersey News North Jersey News Police Blotter

Leader of New Jersey criminal burglary ring indicted

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

TRENTON – Acting Attorney General Andrew J. Bruck today announced the indictment of a man who is charged with leading a criminal ring responsible for numerous residential burglaries across much of New Jersey.

The Division of Criminal Justice Specialized Crimes Bureau obtained a state grand jury indictment yesterday, Sept. 29, charging Keith Perry, 38, of Teaneck, N.J., with the following offenses:

Perry was arrested in April 2021 in a far-reaching investigation in which numerous law enforcement agencies collaborated to investigate 84 burglaries committed from October 2020 through March 2021 in nine counties in New Jersey—Morris, Bergen, Essex, Somerset, Hunterdon, Union, Passaic, Monmouth, and Middlesex—as well as lower New York State. Two ring members who were charged with Perry in April—Porsche Brown, 29, of Lodi, N.J., and Kay Brown, 23, of Paterson, N.J. (no relation to each other)—pleaded guilty on July 13 to third-degree burglary and are awaiting sentencing.

As detailed in the statement of probable cause in the criminal complaints filed in April, the burglaries involved a similar modus operandi and it is suspected that the same burglary ring was involved in each. The perpetrators forced entry through a doorway, usually in the afternoon or early evening, and stole cash, jewelry, and other valuables from the master bedroom and/or other areas of the residence. Well over half a million dollars in cash, jewelry, and other valuables were stolen in total in the 84 burglaries.

Perry is charged specifically in connection with 17 burglaries that occurred in Morris, Bergen, Essex, Somerset, Hunterdon, and Union Counties. In connection with the charge of burglary with a weapon, it is alleged that, during a burglary in Englewood on Dec. 23, 2020, the homeowner confronted Perry, who made a motion inside his sweatshirt as though he had a gun and said, “I’ll shoot you.”

The multi-agency investigation was led by the Division of Criminal Justice, New Jersey State Police, Verona Police Department, New Milford Police Department, and Teaneck Police Department, assisted by the Essex County Prosecutor’s Office, Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office, and the 40 additional municipal police departments listed below.

“Thanks to the collaborative work of dozens of law enforcement agencies, we stopped this prolific burglary ring and its alleged leader,” said Acting Attorney General Bruck. “Day in and day out, law enforcement in New Jersey demonstrates the power of working together cooperatively to solve crimes and keep our residents safe.”

“I commend all of the law enforcement agencies that partnered to stop this brazen burglary ring, which forced entry into homes in the afternoon and early evening, potentially putting residents in danger,” said Director Lyndsay V. Ruotolo of the Division of Criminal Justice. “Instead of local police investigating each burglary in isolation, we had more than 40 law enforcement agencies sharing intelligence and working as a team to eliminate this threat.”

“Every agency involved with this investigation understood that it was paramount that we identify and apprehend the members of this ring, because their willingness to commit these crimes while homeowners were present demonstrated that they were prepared to engage in confrontation, which could easily have escalated into violence,” said Colonel Patrick J. Callahan, Superintendent of the New Jersey State Police. “This investigation is an example of how the New Jersey law enforcement community can quickly band together and coordinate across multiple jurisdictions to dismantle a dangerous burglary ring.”

“This case highlighted the exceptional partnership shared among law enforcement agencies in New Jersey,” said Chief Christopher Kiernan of the Verona Police Department. “I must applaud Verona Detective TJ Conroy and Detective Lieutenant Timothy Banta who stayed with this case from the day of the Verona burglary in early December 2020, researching an enormous number of cases throughout the state, identifying similarities to Verona’s burglary, and breaking many leads. Their efforts and the teamwork of all of the participating agencies ultimately led to the arrests of individuals responsible for numerous burglaries throughout the state.”

The indictment is posted online at: Perry Indictment

Perry was arrested on April 30, 2021 in North Carolina by the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force on a warrant obtained by the Division of Criminal Justice. He was extradited to New Jersey and is being detained pending trial in the Morris County Correctional Facility.

Deputy Attorney General Matthew Lafargue is prosecuting the case for the Division of Criminal Justice (DCJ) Specialized Crimes Bureau, under the supervision of Deputy Bureau Chief Jacqueline Smith, Bureau Chief Erik Daab, and DCJ Deputy Director Annmarie Taggart. Detectives Scott Caponi and Sang Han investigated for the Division of Criminal Justice, under the supervision of Deputy Chief of Detectives Robert Stemmer and Chief of Detectives Weldon Powell. DCJ Detective Shawn Gorlin, who is a member of the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force, led the fugitive investigation.

Detective Sgt. Brian Kearns, Investigator Erica Benedetti, and Investigator Jessica Butt investigated for the New Jersey State Police.

Detective Thomas J Conroy III was lead detective on the case for the Verona Police Department, under the supervision of Lt. Tim Banta.

The investigation by the New Milford Police Department Detective Bureau was supervised and conducted by Lt. Kevin VanSanders, Detective Sgt. Nelson Perez, Detective Derek Mattessich, Detective Brian Carlino, and Officer Adam Conboy.

Detective Gabriel Santiago was lead detective for the Teaneck Detective Bureau.

Acting Attorney General Bruck thanked the U.S. Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force and all of the participating law enforcement agencies for their invaluable assistance.

In addition to the law enforcement agencies listed above, the following police departments participated in the collaborative investigation: Bedminster Police Department, Berkeley Heights Police Department, Bernardsville Police Department, Boonton Police Department, Bridgewater Police Department, Cedar Grove Police Department, Clarkstown (N.Y.) Police Department, Clinton Township Police Department, Englewood Police Department, Fairview Police Department, Glen Rock Police Department, Hackensack Police Department, Haledon Police Department, Harrington Park Police Department, Holmdel Police Department, Little Falls Police Department, Livingston Police Department, Madison Police Department, Manalapan Police Department, Marlboro Police Department, Milburn Police Department, Monroe Police Department, Montclair Police Department, Montville Police Department, North Caldwell Police Department, North Haledon Police Department, Northvale Police Department, Paramus Police Department, Parsippany-Troy Hills Police Department, Pearl River (N.Y.) Police Department, Randolph Police Department, Tenafly Police Department, Totowa Police Department, Warren Township Police Department, Washington Township Police Department (Bergen County), Watchung Police Department, Wayne Police Department, West Orange Police Department, Woodcliff Lake Police Department, and Wyckoff Police Department.

First-degree charges carry a sentence of 10 to 20 years in state prison and a fine of up to $200,000. Second-degree charges carry a sentence of five to 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $150,000, while third-degree charges carry a sentence of three to five years in prison and a fine of up to $15,000.

October 4, 2021 0 comments

New Jersey News Ocean County News Police Blotter

Two seniors found dead in targeted murder at the Jersey Shore

by Charlie Dwyer October 4, 2021

By: Charlie Dwyer

SURF CITY, NJ – Two people have been found dead at a home in Surf City and the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office says it’s now investigating the suspicious incident. The Prosecutor’s Office did not give any further details on the incident.

Shore News Network has learned the victims are John Enders, 87, of Surf City and Francoise Pitoy, 75, of Manchester, and that police are now saying the attack was targeted.

The Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Reported:

Ocean County Prosecutor Bradley D. Billhimer and Surf City Police Chief John N. Casella, Jr., announced that on October 3, 2021, Officers of the Surf City Police Department discovered two deceased individuals at a residence on North 7th Avenue

The deaths are currently being investigated by the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office Major Crime Unit, Surf City Police Department, and Ocean County Sheriff’s Office Crime Scene Investigation Unit. “At this point in time, these deaths are considered to be suspicious. More information will be released as it becomes available,” Prosecutor Billhimer stated.

This is an active and ongoing investigation. Anyone in possession of information concerning this investigation is urged to contact Detective Lindsay Woodfield of the Ocean County Prosecutor’s Office at 732-929-2027, extension 3989, or Sgt. Victor Rice of the Surf City Police Department at 609-494-8121

October 4, 2021 0 comments

Florida News

Governor Ron DeSantis Statement on First Lady Casey DeSantis

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis released the following statement regarding First Lady Casey DeSantis:

“I am saddened to report that Florida’s esteemed First Lady and my beloved wife has been diagnosed with breast cancer. As the mother of three young children, Casey is the centerpiece of our family and has made an impact on the lives of countless Floridians through her initiatives as First Lady. As she faces the most difficult test of her life, she will have not only have my unwavering support but the support of our entire family, as well as the prayers and well wishes from Floridians across our state. Casey is a true fighter, and she will never, never, never give up.” – Governor Ron

###

October 4, 2021 0 comments

Florida News

DeSantis: Dysfunction in Washington D.C. Impacts Transportation Construction Projects in Florida

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

TALLAHASSEE, Fla. – Today, Governor Ron DeSantis called attention to the impacts congressional inaction and dysfunction are beginning to have on all types of transportation projects in Florida. Congress has failed to pass a timely authorization to fund the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA), halting federal support for construction on federal highway projects as well as furloughing most of the agency’s employees. Contained in the infrastructure package, which House Speaker Nancy Pelosi has refused to hold a vote on, is $110 billion for roads, bridges and other projects, as Federal authorization expired yesterday.

While Congress continues to fail to do its job, the Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) is not ending work on transportation projects because the Department understands that any undue delay on these projects will directly impact hundreds of thousands of Floridians. However, work that is currently being done on these projects will not receive federal funding or support, and may not be reimbursed – forcing Florida taxpayers to cover for the ineptitude of Washington.

“Yet again, the delays in Washington are impacting the lives of Floridians,” said Governor Ron DeSantis. “It is unacceptable that Congress or the Biden Administration would use highway construction as a bargaining chip and leave Florida taxpayers to foot the bill. This is even more proof that the Democrats in leadership don’t want to help people, they don’t want to get anything done, they just want to follow a political agenda.”

“Under Governor DeSantis’ leadership, we have implemented a robust program that improves transportation throughout the state”, said FDOT Secretary Kevin J. Thibault, P.E. “We will continue to develop these highway and transit projects as long as we can – recognizing that this state’s focus on transportation funding has positioned us to be able to do this longer than our peer states.”

Of the estimated nearly 3,000 federal employees being furloughed as a result of Congressional inaction, many work and reside in Florida. Florida currently receives over $2 billion annually from the FHWA program, funding numerous projects currently underway across the state.

October 4, 2021 0 comments

Department of Justice Press Releases

San Gabriel Valley Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Role in Conspiracy to Sell Counterfeit Laptop Computer Batteries

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

LOS ANGELES – A Chinese national who participated in a multimillion-dollar scheme to manufacture, ship and market counterfeit laptop computer batteries and other electronics made in China was sentenced today to 60 months in federal prison.

Zoulin “Allen” Cai, 30, of La Puente, was sentenced this morning by United States District Judge John F. Walter, who also ordered the defendant to pay $9,227,543 in restitution and a $25,000 fine.

Cai pleaded guilty on June 29 to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and mail fraud and one count of aggravated identity theft.

Cai was a member of a conspiracy that imported batteries, labels for batteries in laptop computers, cellphones and other electronics from China to the United States. Cai then sold and shipped the counterfeit batteries to unsuspecting buyers via eBay and Amazon, falsely advertising them as brand name, genuine, original or OEM (original equipment manufacturer) products. Those batteries bore counterfeit trademarks of companies such as Apple, Dell, HP and Toshiba, as well as counterfeit certification marks of UL, a company that tests and certifies the safety of electronic products.

“Counterfeit lithium-ion batteries have significant safety risks,” prosecutors wrote in a sentencing memorandum filed with the court. “The batteries…distributed by [Cai] frequently lacked internal safeguards, resulting in a significant risk of fire, explosion, and danger to human life and safety.”

Co-conspirators in China packaged counterfeit batteries and electronics and shipped them to the United States, sometimes covering the trademarks with black tape or a similar material, so that a quick inspection of the items by customs officials would not reveal the trademark. The counterfeit batteries were imported, sold, and shipped from Cai-controlled warehouses in La Puente.

When federal authorities executed a search warrant at Cai’s warehouse In December 2019, they discovered approximately 44,000 batteries, as well as approximately 175,000 labels bearing the counterfeit marks of multiple companies.

Judge Walter today found that the loss resulting from Cai’s conduct was more than $9.5 million.

Homeland Security Investigations investigated this matter and was assisted in this investigation by the brand-holding companies.

Assistant United States Attorneys Khaldoun Shobaki of the Cyber and Intellectual Property Crimes Section and Julia S. Choe of the General Crimes Section prosecuted this case.

October 4, 2021 0 comments

Department of Justice Press Releases

Bridgeport Man Admits Participating in Gang-Related Shootings

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

DIOMIE BLACKWELL, also known as “Yamo,” 24, of Bridgeport, pleaded guilty today to a racketeering offense stemming from his participation in gang-related shootings, including a shooting in front of a state courthouse in Bridgeport in January 2020.

Today’s announcement was made by Leonard C Boyle, Acting United States Attorney for the District of Connecticut; Joseph T. Corradino, State’s Attorney for the Fairfield Judicial District; Bridgeport Acting Police Chief Rebeca Garcia; James Ferguson, Special Agent in Charge, ATF Boston Field Division; David Sundberg, Special Agent in Charge of the New Haven Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Brian D. Boyle, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration for New England, and Acting U.S. Marshal Lawrence Bobnick.

According to court documents and statements made in court, the FBI, ATF, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service and Bridgeport Police have been investigating multiple Bridgeport-based gangs whose members are involved in narcotics trafficking, murder and other acts of violence. Blackwell has been a member of the “Greene Homes Boyz” (“GHB/Hotz”), a gang based in the Charles F. Greene Homes Housing Complex in Bridgeport’s North End, whose members and associates distributed heroin, crack cocaine, marijuana and Percocet pills; committed numerous acts of violence against rival gang members and other individuals, and celebrated their criminal conduct on social media websites such as Facebook and YouTube. GHB/Hotz members and associates also committed acts of intimidation and made threats to deter potential witnesses to their crimes and to protect gang members and associates from detection and prosecution by law enforcement authorities. From approximately 2017 until August 2020, GHB/Hotz members were aligned with members of the “Original North End” (“O.N.E.”), a gang based in the Trumbull Gardens area of Bridgeport, against rival groups in Bridgeport, including the East End, East Side and PT Barnum gangs, as well as 150, which is a geographic gang based on the West Side of Bridgeport.

In pleading guilty, Blackwell admitted that on February 7, 2018, he and an associate shot and attempted to kill “MJ,” a member or associate of the 150 gang. And, on January 27, 2020, he and others attempted to kill members and associates of the East End gang in a brazen afternoon shooting in front of a Bridgeport courthouse. At 12:11 p.m. on that date, Bridgeport Police responded to the area of 172 Golden Hill Street in Bridgeport after a Shot Spotter activation detected approximately 20 shots being fired in front of the state courthouse located there. Upon arrival, investigators discovered that four victims had been shot while sitting inside a black Chevrolet Impala. One victim was shot in the side of his chest and was left paralyzed and a second victim sustained multiple gunshot wounds to his back, shoulder and wrist. The victims’ vehicle had approximately 23 entry bullet holes in the driver’s side and windshield area.

Blackwell also appears in YouTube videos and in social media posts, where firearms are present, promoting the gang.

Blackwell pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to engage in a pattern of racketeering activity, an offense that carries a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years. He is scheduled to be sentenced by U.S. District Judge Janet Bond Arterton on December 28, 2021, at which time he faces a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years.

Blackwell has been detained since August 6, 2020.

This ongoing investigation is being conducted by ATF, the FBI’s Safe Streets and Violent Crimes Task Forces, DEA, U.S. Marshals Service, Bridgeport Police Department, Connecticut State Police and the Bridgeport State’s Attorney’s Office, with the assistance of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Connecticut Forensic Science Laboratory and the Naugatuck Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys, Jocelyn C. Kaoutzanis, Rahul Kale, Peter D. Markle, Karen L. Peck and Stephanie T. Levick.

This prosecution is a part of the Justice’s Department’s Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), Project Longevity and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) programs.

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.

Project Longevity is a comprehensive initiative to reduce gun violence in Connecticut’s major cities. Through Project Longevity, community members and law enforcement directly engage with members of groups that are prone to commit violence and deliver a community message against violence, a law enforcement message about the consequences of further violence and an offer of help for those who want it. If a group member elects to engage in gun violence, the focused attention of federal, state and local law enforcement will be directed at that entire group.

OCDETF identifies, disrupts and dismantles drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs and transnational criminal organizations through a prosecutor-led and intelligence-driven approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.

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October 4, 2021 0 comments

Department of Justice Press Releases

Four Former Employees of Utility Company Plead Guilty in Bribery and Kickback Scheme

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

Earlier today, in federal court in Brooklyn, Patrick McCrann and Richard Zavada, two former employees of a New York-based utility company (the “Company”), pleaded guilty to accepting bribes and kickbacks from the owners of a Long Island-based contractor (the “Contractor”) in exchange for steering lucrative contracts to the Contractor. Last week, Ricardo Garcia and Jevan Seepaul, two other former employees of the Company, also pleaded guilty to accepting bribes and kickbacks from the Contractor. Today’s proceedings took place before United States District Judge Carol Bagley Amon.

Jacquelyn M. Kasulis, Acting United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York, and Michael J. Driscoll, Assistant Director-in-Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office (FBI), announced the guilty pleas.

“The defendants have admitted to accepting thousands of dollars in bribes and kickbacks for their own enrichment and to subverting the no-bid process for awarding contracts,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Kasulis. “The Office will remain vigilant in prosecuting criminals who seek to enrich themselves at the expense of taxpayers and consumers.”

As alleged in the criminal information and other court filings, the defendants were managers employed in the facilities department of the Company who steered contracts to certain Long Island-based contractors, including the Contractor, in exchange for hundreds of thousands of dollars in bribes and kickbacks. The Contractor secured more than $50 million in facility maintenance contracts from the Company during the time that the Contractor was paying bribes to the defendants. As managers, the defendants had the authority to approve “no-bid” contracts valued at less than $50,000. The Contractor understood that if it did not pay bribes, the defendants would award the Company’s work to the Contractor’s competitors. In exchange for the bribe payments, the defendants also took various steps to assist the Contractor in obtaining contracts from the Company for which there was a bidding process, including providing it with non-public bidding information, circumventing the Company’s competitive bidding process and offering favorable reviews of the Contractor’s work. The Contractor paid bribes to ensure that the defendants did not slow or stop disbursement of project funds to the Contractor, provide negative performance reviews regarding the Contractor’s work, or otherwise claim that the Contractor’s work did not meet contractual specifications.

The illicit payments to the defendants included cash, the purchase of a recreational vehicle, home improvements, landscaping and an overseas vacation. As part of the investigation, agents recovered approximately $300,000 in cash from a safe deposit box held by Zavada.

When sentenced, each defendant faces a maximum sentence of five years in prison, a maximum fine of $500,000, mandatory restitution and forfeiture.

The government’s case is being handled by the Office’s Public Integrity Section. Assistant United States Attorneys Turner Buford and Artie McConnell are in charge of the prosecution.

The Defendants Who Pleaded Guilty Today:

PATRICK MCCRANN

Age: 57

Selden, New York

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 21-CR-467 (CBA)

RICHARD ZAVADA

Age: 65

Hicksville, New York

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 21-CR-468 (CBA)

The Defendants Who Previously Pleaded Guilty:

RICARDO GARCIA

Age: 48

Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 21-CR-460 (CBA)

JEEVAN SEEPAULAge: 36

Rockville Centre, New York

E.D.N.Y. Docket No. 21-CR-469 (CBA)

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October 4, 2021 0 comments

Department of Justice Press Releases

St. Paul Man Indicted for Shipping Heroin into Minnesota Correctional Facility

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

MINNEAPOLIS – A St. Paul man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for attempted distribution and possession with intent to distribute heroin, and for illegally possessing firearms as a felon, announced Acting U.S. Attorney W. Anders Folk.

According to court documents, on April 12, 2021, Walter Davis, a/k/a “Disney,” 39, attempted to distribute a substance containing heroin by depositing it into the United States mail, addressed to one or more recipients at a Minnesota state correctional facility. On April 16, 2021, Davis also possessed a Smith & Wesson .38 Special revolver, a Rossi .357 Magnum revolver, and over 100 grams of heroin. Davis has multiple prior felony convictions in Ramsey and Hennepin Counties and therefore is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.

Davis is charged with one count of attempted distribution of a controlled substance, one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance, and two counts of possessing a firearm as a felon.

This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service and the Minnesota Department of Corrections.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ruth S. Shnider is 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.

October 4, 2021 0 comments

Department of Justice Press Releases

Lakeland Man Sentenced To Federal Prison For Theft Of Public Money And Aggravated Identity Theft

by Press Release October 4, 2021

By: Press Release

Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung has sentenced Julio Gonzales (45, Lakeland) to 2 years and 10 months in federal prison for theft of public money and aggravated identity theft. As part of his sentence, the court also ordered Gonzalez to pay $110,102.90 in restitution and, separately, entered a forfeiture money judgment against him in the amount of $28,527, the proceeds of the offense of conviction.

Gonzalez had pleaded guilty on June 22, 2021.

According to court documents, from February 2014 through February 2018, Gonzales stole Social Security benefit payments made by the Social Security Administration on behalf of four individuals. In total, Gonzalez knowingly and willfully stole approximately $110,102 in benefits to which he was not entitled. In addition, Gonzales used the identity of an unsuspecting U.S. citizen to commit Social Security fraud.

This case was investigated by the Social Security Administration, Office of the Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Huyler.

Making sure that victims of federal crimes are treated with compassion, fairness and respect.

October 4, 2021 0 comments

Oil Prices Skyrocket To Seven-Year High After OPEC Announces Gradual Output Boost

by The Daily Caller October 4, 2021

By: The Daily Caller

The price of oil surged Monday after the Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC) doubled down on its plans to increase oil output at a gradual rate.

West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude and Brent crude, the respective U.S. and international oil benchmarks, each increased more than 3% after the OPEC announcement. WTI peaked at $78.37 per barrel, the highest level since 2014, and Brent hit $82 per barrel, its highest price since 2018, on Monday.

The price surge suggested that investors had expected OPEC to announce a greater boost to oil output, according to The Wall Street Journal. The group and its Russian counterpart, which together are known as OPEC+, said overall production would instead be capped at nearly 400,000 barrels per day, in line with previous agreements.

While OPEC has chosen to keep oil production relatively low, U.S. producers have opted to also keep output low, the WSJ reported. Mike Muller, the head of Asia at energy and commodity trading firm Vitol, said this means the “control of pricing is very much in the hands of OPEC+.”

In August, the White House appealed to OPEC, asking it to boost oil production at a higher rate.

“Higher gasoline costs, if left unchecked, risk harming the ongoing global recovery,” National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan said in a statement. “The price of crude oil has been higher than it was at the end of 2019, before the onset of the pandemic. While OPEC+ recently agreed to production increases, these increases will not fully offset previous production cuts that OPEC+ imposed during the pandemic until well into 2022.”

“At a critical moment in the global recovery, this is simply not enough,” he continued.

But, immediately after taking office, President Joe Biden took steps to curb U.S. oil production including a ban on new oil and gas leases on federal lands and the revocation of the Keystone XL pipeline’s lease. A federal judge granted a request, however, from 12 states to block the leasing ban pending further litigation.

Content created by The Daily Caller News Foundation is available without charge to any eligible news publisher that can provide a large audience. For licensing opportunities of our original content, please contact [email protected]. Read the full story at the Daily Caller News Foundation

October 4, 2021 0 comments

Parents Concerned Over Sexually Graphic Books Found In Kansas Middle School Class Library

by The Daily Caller October 4, 2021

By: The Daily Caller

A seventh grade teacher in Olathe, Kansas, posted to social media in August that she was excited to add two sexually explicit books to her classroom library, which generated concern among students’ parents.

A teacher at Olathe Public Schools said in a social media post that she planned to include the two sexually graphic books, “All Boys Aren’t Blue” and “Aristotle and Dante Discover the Secrets of the Universe,” in her classroom library, according to a recent report from Parents Defending Education (PDE). The book content concerned parents of students at Summit Trail Middle School, who are mostly 11 and 12-years-old.

“Early last week the district was made aware of an inappropriate book for the middle school level that was gifted to one of our middle school teachers by a patron,” Becky Grubaugh, Olathe Public Schools communication and media manager told the Daily Caller News Foundation. “This book is not a part of the district’s approved core reading list for all students and the district has requested that the individual remove it from their optional classroom library.”

Seventh grade teacher’s social media post. Courtesy of Parents Defending Education.

“According to Board of Education policy, all books on the district’s K-12 reading lists must be approved by the Board of Education as they support the Olathe Public Schools curriculum,” the statement added.

In “All Boys Aren’t Blue,” passages describe sexually explicit content such as, “He reached his hand down and pulled out my d**k. He quickly went to giving me h**d. I just sat back and enjoyed it as I could tell he was, too.”

“He didn’t know I was a virgin, and I did my best to act dominant like my favorite [censored] star,” the book continued.

“All Boys Aren’t Blue.” Photo courtesy of Parents Defending Education.

“For the first few minutes, we dry humped and grinded,” another passage read. “I was behind him with my stomach on his back as we kissed … he pulled out some condom and some lube … I had never done it before … I had one point of reference, though, and that was seven-plus years of watching [censored]ography. Although the [censored] was heterosexual, it was enough of a reference point to get the job done.”

One parent, who is running for the local school board, used the example to advocate for the creation of a parents curriculum advisory team, PDE reported. The parent said in a public statement that when she inquired about the book’s appropriateness, the district said to “please see the book has numerous awards and they are listed.”

“This is NOT political, this is our young children being groomed for an over sexualized world. Period,” the parent added.

“All Boys Aren’t Blue” has been purchased by other school libraries and promoted on reading lists and book awards, according to PDE.

October 4, 2021 0 comments

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