“NEW ORLEANS— MELVIN HUDSON, age 26; JERMAINE HUDSON, age 25; TRAVIS HUDSON age 29; MOSES LAWSON, age 27; MONTERIO WIGGINS, age 27; RODERICK WIGGINS, age 22; DANTE CARSON, age 21; DWIGHT CARSON, age 22; TOREY RICHARDSON, age 21; TEDRICK REYNARD, age 24; SHAYNE LEBLANC, age 40; and AKAI SULLIVAN, age 27, were charged today in a 22-count superseding indictment for violations of the Racketeer Influenced Corrupt Organization (RICO) Act, the Violent Crime in Aid of Racketeering Act, the Federal Gun Control Act, Controlled Substances Act, and obstruction of justice, announced U.S. Attorney Jim Letten. MELVIN HUDSON was already under indictment but the other 11 defendants are newly charged.

This case arises out of a joint investigation by ATF, FBI, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. This investigation targeted an area which exhibited a disproportionate amount of violent crimes and narcotics trafficking. During the course of the investigation, specific individuals were identified as the main perpetrators of many of the violent acts and much of the narcotics distribution. Based on this initial information, federal and local law enforcement officers interviewed witnesses, confidential informants, as well as state defendants, relative to the targeted individuals. It was revealed that a group of individuals operated in areas of Harvey Louisiana, specifically the neighborhoods known as Scottsdale and Haydel. This group controlled these areas for their narcotics distribution activities through violence and through threats of violence, to include murder, attempted murder, and assaults. They were referred to as the Harvey Hustlers and/or Murder Squad.

The third superseding indictment charges MELVIN HUDSON, in count one with RICO conspiracy; counts two, three, and four with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base, cocaine hydrochloride, and marijuana; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses; count six with obstruction of justice; count 15 with distribution of heroin; count 16 with prohibited person in possession of a firearm; Count 17 with possession with intent to distribute cocaine; and Count 18 with possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.

JERMAINE HUDSON, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; counts two and three with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base and cocaine hydrochloride; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses.

TRAVIS HUDSON, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; counts two and three with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base and cocaine hydrochloride; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses; and count 21 with distribution of cocaine base.

MOSES LAWSON, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses; count seven with prohibited person in possession of a firearm; count eight with possession of a stolen firearm; count 12 with murder in aid of racketeering; count 13 with causing death through use of a firearm; and count 14 with use and carrying of a firearm and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking offense.

MONTERIO WIGGINS, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses; count 12 with murder in aid of racketeering; count 13 with causing death through use of a firearm; count 14 with use and carrying of a firearm and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking offense; and count 19 with person under indictment in possession of a firearm.

RODERICK WIGGINS, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses.

DANTE CARSON, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses; counts nine, 10, and 11 with aiding and abetting in the unlawful acquisition of a firearm; count 12 with murder in aid of racketeering; count 13 with causing death through use of a firearm; count 14 with use and carrying of a firearm and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking offense.

DWIGHT CARSON, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses; counts nine, 10, and 11 with aiding and abetting in the unlawful acquisition of a firearm; count 12 with murder in aid of racketeering; count 13 with causing death through use of a firearm; count 14 with use and carrying of a firearm and in relation to a crime of violence or drug trafficking offense.

TOREY RICHARDSON, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses.

TEDRICK REYNARD, is charged in count one with RICO conspiracy; count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses; and counts 20 and 22 with distribution of cocaine base.

SHAYNE LEBLANC, is charged in count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base.

AKAI SULLIVAN, is charged in count two with conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute cocaine base; count five with conspiracy to possess firearms during and in relation to crimes of violence and drug trafficking offenses; and count six with obstruction of justice.

MONTERIO WIGGINS, DANTE CARSON, DWIGHT CARSON, and MOSES LAWSON are charged with murdering Reginald Francois on April 1, 2010. The third superseding indictment also alleges special findings against the defendants MONTERIO WIGGINS, DANTE CARSON, DWIGHT CARSON, and MOSES LAWSON. As a result, the death penalty could be imposed if convicted of either counts 12 or 13.

Count One
MELVIN HUDSON, JERMAINE HUDSON, TRAVIS HUDSON, MOSES LAWSON, MONTERIO WIGGINS, RODERICK WIGGINS, DANTE CARSON, DWIGHT CARSON, TOREY RICHARDSON, and TEDRICK REYNARD face up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00 and up to five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count Two
MELVIN HUDSON, JERMAINE HUDSON, TRAVIS HUDSON, MOSES LAWSON, MONTERIO WIGGINS, RODERICK WIGGINS, DANTE CARSON, DWIGHT CARSON, TOREY RICHARDSON, TEDRICK REYNARD, SHAYNE LEBLANC, and AKAI SULLIVAN face a minimum of 20 years’ imprisonment up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count Three
MELVIN HUDSON, JERMAINE HUDSON, and TRAVIS HUDSON face a minimum of 20 years’ imprisonment up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, a fine of up to $10,000,000.00, and at least five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count Four
MELVIN HUDSON faces up to five years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, and at least two years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

County Five
MELVIN HUDSON, JERMAINE HUDSON, TRAVIS HUDSON, MOSES LAWSON, MONTERIO WIGGINS, RODERICK WIGGINS, DANTE CARSON, DWIGHT CARSON, TOREY RICHARDSON, TEDRICK REYNARD, and AKAI SULLIVAN face up to 20 years’ imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 in fines, and up to three years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count Six
MELVIN HUDSON and AKAI SULLIVAN face up to 20 years’ imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 in fines, and up to three years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count Seven
MOSES LAWSON faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 in fines, and up to three years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count Eight
MOSES LAWSON faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 in fines, and up to three years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Counts Nine-11
DANTE CARSON and DWIGHT CARSON face up to 10 years’ imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 in fines, and up to three years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 12
MOSES LAWSON, MONTERIO WIGGINS, DANTE CARSON, and DWIGHT CARSON face a maximum term of imprisonment of life or the death penalty.

Count 13
MOSES LAWSON, MONTERIO WIGGINS, DANTE CARSON, and DWIGHT CARSON face imprisonment for any term of years, life imprisonment or the death penalty, a fine of $250,000.00, and five years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 14
MOSES LAWSON, MONTERIO WIGGINS, DANTE CARSON, and DWIGHT CARSON face a minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years’ imprisonment up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, up to $250,000.00, and up to five years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment. Any term of imprisonment shall be serve consecutive to any other term of imprisonment.

Count 15
MELVIN HUDSON faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,00,00.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 16
MELVIN HUDSON faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 in fines, and up to three years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 17
MELVIN HUDSON faces up to a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 18
MELVIN HUDSON faces a minimum term of imprisonment of five years’ imprisonment up to a maximum term of life imprisonment, up to $250,000.00, and up to five years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment. Any term of imprisonment shall be serve consecutive to any other term of imprisonment.

Count 19
MONTERIO WIGGINS faces up to five years’ imprisonment, up to $250,000.00 in fines, and up to three years’ supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 20
TEDRICK REYNARD faces up to a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 21
TRAVIS HUDSON faces up to a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

Count 22
TEDRICK REYNARD faces up to a maximum of 20 years’ imprisonment, a fine of up to $1,000,000.00, and at least three years of supervised release following any term of imprisonment.

U.S. Attorney Letten reiterated that the indictment is merely a charge and that the guilt of the defendant must be proven beyond a reasonable doubt.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau Investigation, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Jefferson Parish Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Duane A. Evans.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

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To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“Defendants Include One Current and Two Former Members of the Bonanno Crime Family Administration

A 14-count superseding indictment was unsealed this morning in Brooklyn federal court charging five members of the Bonanno organized crime family of La Cosa Nostra (the “Bonanno family”) variously with racketeering, extortion, illegal gambling, and conspiring to distribute marijuana. An associate of the Gambino organized crime family of La Cosa Nostra (the “Gambino family”) was also charged with loansharking.[1] The defendants were arrested earlier today in New York and are scheduled to be arraigned this afternoon before United States Magistrate Judge Joan M. Azrack, at the U.S. Courthouse, 225 Cadman Plaza East, Brooklyn, New York. The case has been assigned to United States Chief District Court Judge Carol B. Amon.

The charges were announced by Loretta E. Lynch, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of New York; Wilbert L. Plummer, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Drug Enforcement Administration, New York Field Division; Janice K. Fedarcyk, Assistant Director in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, New York Field Office; and Raymond W. Kelly, Commissioner, New York City Police Department.

As alleged in the indictment and a detention memorandum filed by the government today, defendant Vincent Badalamenti, also known as “Vinny TV,” is a made member of the Bonanno family and a current member of the family’s administration, who until his arrest, was the highest ranking member of the Bonanno family at liberty. Defendants Anthony Graziano, also known as “TG,” and Nicholas Santora, also known as “Nicky Mouth,” are captains in the Bonanno family and former members of the Bonanno family administration. Defendant Vito Balsamo is an acting captain in the Bonanno family, and defendant Anthony Calabrese is a soldier in the Bonanno family. The indictment is the result of a multi-year joint investigation by the DEA and FBI that utilized a variety of techniques to gather evidence, such as consensual recordings of the defendants discussing their charged crimes, cooperating witnesses who were formerly members and associates of organized crime, and surveillance. The evidence revealed a pattern of violence and intimidation employed by the defendants to further their enterprise’s economic interests, including Badalamenti allegedly directing the hostile takeover of a bar located on Coney Island Avenue in Brooklyn, as a result of its owner’s failure to repay a debt owed to Badalamenti.

The charges in the indictment also demonstrate the recidivist nature of organized crime defendants. For example, as detailed in the government’s detention memorandum, Santora allegedly participated in his charged crimes following his prior conviction and incarceration, and while released on supervised release, and Graziano allegedly committed his charged crimes within weeks of being released to a federal halfway house. During one consensual recording, a cooperating witness (“CW”) told Graziano that during Graziano’s most recent prison term, the CW was sent to collect money from one of Graziano’s loanshark victims who “was crying hysterical.” The CW and Graziano also discussed how the CW was sent on multiple occasions to collect money from the same victim by a member of the Bonanno family’s ruling panel, to which Graziano responded, “Yeah, well, he was trying to collect my money.” On another occasion, Graziano allegedly directed the CW to meet a second extortion victim and “open him up.”

The charges and arrests announced today are the latest in an ongoing investigation that has resulted in the prosecution of more than 175 members and associates of the Bonanno family in the Eastern District of New York. Since March 2002, more than 10 Bonanno family bosses, acting bosses and administration members have been convicted in this district on racketeering and racketeering-related charges.

“Members of organized crime continue to exploit their victims the old-fashioned way—through violence, threats, and intimidation. Learning nothing from their incarceration, two of the defendants allegedly sought to regain their money and influence on the street while still under federal supervision. But because they learned nothing, they find themselves back in custody again, along with their co-defendants,” stated United States Attorney Lynch. “As law enforcement has so successfully done before, we will employ our own time-tested techniques to bring them to justice to account for their crimes. We will not rest in this pursuit until the Bonanno crime family and La Cosa Nostra have been completely dismantled.”

DEA Acting Special Agent in Charge Plummer stated, “These arrests prove that justice comes to those who have abused the system. The five defendants arrested with RICO charges will face the consequences of their alleged illegal actions in the court of law. The New York Drug Enforcement Task Force worked diligently with the United States Attorney’s Office in order to keep our city and state crime free.” Mr. Plummer thanked the New York Drug Enforcement Task Force which comprises agents and officers of the DEA, New York State Police and the New York City Police Department for their hard work on this investigation.

FBI Assistant Director in Charge Fedarcyk stated, “Today’s charges confirm that La Cosa Nostra families continue to engage in the bedrock money-making activities like extortion and loansharking, and are not shy about resorting to violence as a method. As long as mobsters continue their predatory ways, the FBI will continue to target the mob.”

NYPD Commissioner Kelly stated, “This case demonstrates that the FBI, DEA, and NYPD in partnership with federal prosecutors, are relentless and will continue to dismantle organized crime and protect the public from its insidious effects.”

If convicted, each defendant faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment.

The government’s case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Nicole M. Argentieri and Stephen E. Frank.

The Defendants:

VINCENT BADALAMENTI Age: 53

VITO BALSAMO Age: 55

ANTHONY CALABRESE Age: 44

ANTHONY GRAZIANO Age: 71

JAMES LAFORTE Age: 35

NICHOLAS SANTORA Age: 69

[1] The charges contained in the indictment are merely allegations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

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To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“McAllen-Area Health Care Marketer Arrested for Conspiracy and Anti-Kickback Violations

MCALLEN, TX—The owner of a purported health care resource center has been charged by a federal grand jury with one count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and two counts of soliciting and receiving kickback payments in violation of the federal anti-kickback statute, United States Attorney Kenneth Magidson announced today.

Alicia Vasquez, of San Juan, Texas, the owner of David’s Star Loving Vision Resource Center (DSLV), was charged in a three-count indictment returned under seal on Nov. 1, 2011. The indictment was unsealed this morning, following the arrest of Vasquez by FBI and Department of Health and Human Services-Office of Inspector General (DHHS-OIG) agents. Vasquez, 51, is scheduled to appear in McAllen federal court later this morning for an initial appearance.

The federal anti-kickback statute prohibits individuals and entities from knowingly and willfully paying or offering to pay, as well as soliciting or receiving, remuneration (money or other things of value) in return for the referral of patients for medical services or items which are benefits under a federal health care program, such as Medicare or Medicaid. A violation of the anti-kickback statute is a felony offense that is punishable by up to five years in federal prison without parole and a $25,000 fine.

According to allegations in the indictment, from September 2009 through April 2011, Vasquez solicited numerous Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries through DSLV for the purpose of referring them to a variety of health care providers in Hidalgo and Cameron Counties including durable medical equipment (DME) companies, physicians and home healthcare agencies.

Over time, Vasquez allegedly referred the Medicare and Medicaid beneficiaries to these providers in exchange for a total of at least $70,000 in payments in violation of the anti-kickback statute. In turn, the providers billed hundreds of thousands of dollars to the Medicare and Medicaid programs as a result of the allegedly illegal referrals. The indictment further charges that Vasquez, and the providers to which she referred beneficiaries, undertook a variety of measures to conceal Vasquez’s involvement with respect to the referrals. For example, the indictment alleges one owner of a DME company paid kickbacks to Vasquez through a third-party—referred in the indictment as “Person A.” The kickbacks were allegedly deposited into Person A’s bank account, from where the money was later diverted to Vasquez.

The ongoing investigation in this case is being conducted by the FBI and DHHS-OIG. Assistant United States Attorney Greg Saikin is prosecuting the case.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

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To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“ALBUQUERQUE—A 29—count federal indictment charging 15 men from Albuquerque and Edgewood, N.M., with drug trafficking, money laundering, and currency structuring charges was unsealed late yesterday afternoon, announced U.S. Attorney Kenneth J. Gonzales; Joseph M. Arabit, Special Agent in Charge of the El Paso Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA); Carol K.O. Lee, Special Agent in Charge of the Albuquerque Division of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI); and Dawn Mertz, Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Division of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS).

The indictment is the result of a multi-agency investigation into a major drug trafficking and money laundering organization operating out of the Albuquerque metropolitan area that was designated as part of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) program. OCDETF is a nationwide Department of Justice program that combines the resources and unique expertise of federal agencies, along with their local counterparts, in a coordinated effort to disrupt and dismantle major drug trafficking organizations.

Yesterday, a team of federal, state, and local law enforcement officers arrested nine of the 15 defendants named in the indictment, and executed 10 search warrants at residences in Albuquerque and a ranch in Edgewood. Those arrested include Steve Chavez, 32, a fireman with the Albuquerque Fire Department. Two other defendants, Jesus Ramos Castillo, 29, and Gabriel Guerra-Gonzalez, 27, both Mexican nationals, are in state custody on pending local charges; they will be transferred to federal custody to face the charges in the indictment. The defendants arrested yesterday are scheduled to make their initial appearances in federal court in Albuquerque this morning.

Four defendants, Homero Varela, 29, Manuel Villa-Mayorquin, 23, and Procoro Noberto-Alvarez, 28, Mexican nationals, and Ramon Gonzalez, Jr., 25, of Edgewood, have yet to be arrested and are considered fugitives.

The indictment alleges that, between May 2011 and January 2012, all 15 defendants participated in a conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, including cocaine, methamphetamine and marijuana. Each defendant also is charged with using communication devices to facilitate drug trafficking crimes (sometimes referred to as “phone counts”), and Homero Varela is charged with distributing methamphetamine on three separate occasions over a three month period. The maximum penalties for a conviction on the conspiracy charge and each of the three methamphetamine distribution charges is a minimum 10 years’ to a maximum of life imprisonment and a $10 million fine, and the maximum penalty for a conviction on each of the phone counts is four years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

The indictment also charges Homero Varela, Roy Madrid, 21, of Albuquerque, and Manuel Villa-Mayorquin with conspiracy to launder money. Homero Varela is further charged with an additional count of money laundering involving drug proceeds. A conviction on the money laundering conspiracy carries a maximum penalty of 20 years of imprisonment, and a conviction on the substantive money laundering charge carries a maximum penalty of ten years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

Ramon Gonzalez, Jr., is charged with seven counts of structuring financial transactions to avoid certain reporting requirements for an aggregate of $166,300 through 24 transactions between April 2009 and August 2011. Steve Chavez is charged with structuring an aggregate of $348,500 in 37 transactions between July 1, 2011 and August 25, 2011. The maximum penalty for a conviction on each of these counts is five years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine.

The indictment also seeks forfeiture of property constituting, or derived from proceeds obtained directly, or indirectly, from the defendants’ illegal drug trafficking and financial crimes, including three Albuquerque residences owned, occupied or in the possession of Homero Varela, Ramon Gonzalez, Sr., and Steve Chavez, respectively, and a ranch in Edgewood owned by Ramon Gonzalez, Sr. It also seeks forfeiture of funds in numerous bank accounts in the names of Homero Varela, Ramon Gonzales, Sr., Ramon Gonzalez, Jr., Andres Gonzalez and Steve Chavez, as well as a money judgment of at least $15,000,000, the amount of money allegedly derived or involved in the offenses alleged in the indictment.

During yesterday’s law enforcement operation, officers seized a half kilogram of cocaine, more than 10 pounds of high grade marijuana, approximately $25,000 in cash, 20 vehicles, seven handguns, nine rifles, and two shotguns.

In announcing yesterday’s arrests, U.S. Attorney Gonzales said, “The charges in this indictment are some of the most significant drug and money laundering charges ever filed in the District of New Mexico. The investigation that led to this indictment exemplifies the law enforcement cooperation that we are fortunate to experience here in New Mexico. Federal, state and local officers worked long and hard and side-by-side in a coordinated effort to arrest numerous individuals charged in the indictment. We owe a debt of gratitude to everyone involved in the investigation. Their efforts have made our streets and communities much safer.”

“The Varela organization has been responsible for distributing multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine, marijuana, and methamphetamine in central and north central New Mexico,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Arabit. “DEA and our federal, state, county, and municipal law enforcement partners have worked hand-in-hand to disrupt this organization from its roots, culminating in the indictment of 15 of its members of which 11 are in custody and the seizure of their drugs and assets, including 20 vehicles, 18 weapons, cash, and real property. Through these enforcement actions, we are making our communities safer.”

“These significant investigations and arrests would not have been possible without the joint efforts of the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force, led by the DEA, the FBI’s Safe Streets Task Forces in Albuquerque and Las Cruces, the U.S. Attorney’s Office and numerous other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies throughout the region, said FBI Special Agent in Charge Lee. “We all share the same goal: stop criminal enterprises that profit from the illegal trade of dangerous drugs and take away any financial benefit they receive from their crimes. The Albuquerque FBI will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement and community partners to rid our rural and urban areas of drug traffickers and other criminals and help make New Mexico and our nation a safer place to live.”

IRS Special Agent in Charge Mertz stated, “This indictment once again reflects the successful merging of law enforcement personnel, who work together through the task force, providing their specific skills, with the common purpose of ferreting out potential nefarious narcotics and related financial crimes. IRS Criminal Investigation will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners to investigate those individuals who ignore the laws of our country for financial gain.”

The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Reeve Swainston and Samuel L. Hurtado, and was investigated by DEA, FBI, and IRS with support from the New Mexico State Police, the Albuquerque Police Department, the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office, and the Corrales Police Department. Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Marshal’s Service, the U.S. Border Patrol, the Bernalillo County Sheriff’s Office, the Air Branch of U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the New Mexico Department of Public Safety Motor Transportation Police Division, and the Region II HIDTA Task Force participated in yesterday’s law enforcement operation.

Charges in indictments are only accusations. All criminal defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

————————————————————–

To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“ANCHORAGE— United States Attorney Karen L. Loeffler announced today, January 26, 2012, that on January 20, 2012, an Anchorage grand jury expanded a previously charged drug trafficking conspiracy involving Kostas Nikolaos Bairamis, Melissa Dawn Cue, BJ Griffith, William Gilbert, and Justin Clayton Ray Lane to charge three additional defendants: Homer resident Timothy Daniel Cissney, age 33; Christopher Sean Kendrick, age 36, from California; and Aaron O’Kito Dyson, aka “Punchy,” age 37, from Washington. The indictment alleges one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, in violation of 21 U.S.C. §§ 846, 841(a)(1), (b)(1)(C).

According to the indictment presented to the court, defendants conspired to distribute oxycodone and methadone between at least June 17, 2010, and October 5, 2010. Bairamis has been convicted of conspiring to distribute methamphetamine during a different time period and has been sentenced to served 11 years on that separate charge. Both Cue and Griffith have been previously indicted by a grand jury in the District of Nevada. Those charges remain pending.

Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Sayers-Fay, who presented the case to the grand jury, advised that the maximum penalties for conspiring to distribute oxycodone and methadone are 20 years’ imprisonment, a $1,000,000 fine, three years’ supervised release, and a $100 special assessment.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation and Alaska State Troopers conducted the investigation the led to the indictments in this case.

An indictment is only a charge and is not evidence of guilt. A defendant is presumed innocent and is entitled to a fair trial at which the government must prove guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

————————————————————–

To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“MADISON, WI—A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.

Lodi Man Charged with Armed Robbery of Pharmacy

Anthony Carriola, 28, Lodi, Wis., is charged with robbing a pharmacy at gunpoint. The indictment alleges that on January 10, 2012, he took morphine pills from Eannelli’s Pharmacy in Prairie du Sac, Wis., by force. Carriola also is charged with brandishing a firearm, specifically a .44 caliber revolver, during a crime of violence.

If convicted, Carriola faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on the robbery count, and a mandatory minimum penalty of seven years on the brandishing a firearm count, which would be served consecutively to any other prison term imposed. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Sauk County Sheriff’s Department, Sauk Prairie Police Department, Dane County Sheriff’s Department, and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of this case has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Rita M. Rumbelow.

Sparta Man Charged with Arson

Bradford White, 38, Sparta, Wis., is charged with destroying by means of fire a building and personal property used in activity affecting interstate commerce, specifically Fast Eddies, located in Sparta. The indictment alleges that he did so on December 10, 2011.

If convicted, White faces a mandatory minimum penalty of five years in federal prison, and a maximum penalty of 20 years. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Sparta Police Department; Monroe County Sheriff’s Office; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; and Wisconsin Department of Justice, Division of Criminal Investigation, State Fire Marshal’s Office. The prosecution of this case has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Altman.

Mondovi Man Charged with Gun Crime

William Ernest Ziemer, 47, Mondovi, Wis., is charged with being a felon in possession of three firearms. The indictment alleges that on September 7, 2011, he illegally possessed a semi-automatic rifle, a 12 gauge shotgun, and a .270 caliber rifle.

If convicted, Ziemer faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; Chippewa County Sheriff’s Department; Polk County Sheriff’s Department; and St. Croix County Sheriff’s Department. The prosecution of this case has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Munish Sharda.

Madison Man Charged with Distributing Heroin

Gary C. Mays, 47, Madison, Wis., is charged with six counts of distributing heroin. The indictment alleges that he distributed heroin on November 15, 16, 22, and December 5 and 16, 2011, and January 6, 2011.

If convicted, Mays faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison on each count. The charges against him are the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Dane County Narcotics and Gang Task Force. The prosecution of this case has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Paul W. Connell.

Middleton Man Charged with Gun Crime

Joshua Allen Schaaf, 25, Middleton, Wis., is charged with being a felon in possession of three firearms. The indictment alleges that on October 13, 2011, he illegally possessed a .38 caliber revolver and two .380 caliber pistols.

If convicted, Schaaf faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Dane County Sheriff’s Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The prosecution of this case has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney Peter M. Jarosz.

Inmate Charged with Possessing Marijuana

Donte Adams, 37, an inmate of the Federal Correctional Institution at Oxford, Wis., is charged with possessing a prohibited object. The indictment alleges that he possessed marijuana on October 16, 2011.

If convicted, Adams faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. The charge against him is the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Special Investigative Services at FCI-Oxford. The prosecution of this case has been assigned to Assistant U.S. Attorney David J. Reinhard.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

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To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“POCATELLO— A federal grand jury in Pocatello on Tuesday returned an indictment charging 11 people with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, announced U.S. Attorney Wendy J. Olson. Four defendants were arrested earlier today; six others currently in state custody will be transferred into federal custody tomorrow.

The defendants named in the indictment are Samuel Nevarez-Ayon, 25, and Fabiola Esmerelda Marin-Castro, 24, of Rexburg, Idaho; Guadalupe Meraz, 40, of Medara, California; Ana Rosa Valdez-Ceja, 25, Juan Ortiz, Jr., 27, and Antonio Javier Mendoza, 27, of Shelly, Idaho; Isidoro David Herrera, 30, Daniel Quiroz, 24, Everado Tapia Torres, Jr., 29, Ricardo Garcia Lopez, 34, and Nicolas Levi Olsen, 28, of Idaho Falls, Idaho. Nevarez-Ayon, Torres, Olsen, Valdez-Ceja, Mendoza, Quiroz, Herrera, Ortiz, Marin-Castro, and Meraz are scheduled to be arraigned on Thursday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Ronald E. Bush. An arrest warrant has been issued for Lopez, who is considered a fugitive.

Federal drug trafficking charges are punishable by up to 10 years in prison, a fine up to $8 million, and a minimum term of five years of supervised release.

The charges are the result of a nine-month investigation by the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF), including the Idaho State Police, Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, Idaho Falls Police Department, Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Rexburg Police Department, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Fremont County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

The OCDETF program is a federal multi-agency, multi-jurisdictional task force that supplies supplemental federal funding to federal and state agencies involved in the identification, investigation, and prosecution of major drug trafficking organizations.

An indictment is a means of charging a person with criminal activity. It is not evidence. The person is presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

————————————————————–

To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“By DOUGLAS BIRCH and PAUL ELIAS
Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — The United States has arrested and charged an Iranian semiconductor scientist with violating U.S. export laws by buying high-tech U.S. lab equipment, a development likely to further worsen Iranian-U.S. tensions.

Prison records show the U.S. is holding Seyed Mojtaba Atarodi, 54, a microchip expert and assistant professor at Tehran’s prestigious Sharif University of Technology, in a federal facility in Dublin, Calif., outside San Francisco. The Iranian interest section in the Pakistani embassy in Washington said it was aware of the arrest.

Atarodi arrived at a bond hearing in federal district court in San Francisco Thursday wearing a green jump suit and bowed to his attorney. Before the hearing began, the judge closed the courtroom except to attorneys and members of the family. According to friends, Atarodi was detained Dec. 7 after stepping off a plane in Los Angeles.

Dr. Fredun Hojabri, a former vice chancellor of Sharif University who now lives in the U.S., said he was aware of the case and noted that friction between the U.S. and Iran has long posed problems for Iranian researchers.

U.S. law enforcement officials have declined to discuss any aspect of Atarodi’s case, and records indicate the charges have been sealed.

But a Sharif University spokesman said he has been charged with buying instruments from the United States. The university official spoke only on condition of anonymity because of the potential repercussions of the case.

The arrest comes as the U.S., Israel and their allies are using diplomacy, sanctions and intelligence efforts to try to cripple what they suspect is Iran’s drive to lay the foundations of a nuclear weapons program.

Atarodi is listed as the author or coauthor of dozens of scientific papers dealing with microchip technology, though none appears to be explicitly related to military work. U.S. officials in the past have targeted suspected export control violators dealing in so-called dual-use technology, which can have both civilian and military applications.

The Sharif University spokesman said Atarodi was engaged only in civilian research. “The fact of the matter is that he was just a professor, and he was trying to buy some equipment for his lab, and the equipment was very, very simple, ridiculously simple stuff that anybody can buy,” the spokesman said.

The arrest of an Iranian scientist in a U.S. embargo case is rare, with most cases focusing on low-level middlemen living in the U.S. recruited to act as fronts for purchasers in Iran. But Iranian researchers in recent years have become central figures in the struggle between Tehran and the West over the country’s extensive nuclear programs, which the International Atomic Energy Agency says has included arms-related research.

At least four Iranian scientists have died under mysterious circumstances over about the past two years, and Israel is suspected of playing a role in the attacks.

In the most recent incident, Mostafa Ahmadi Roshan, a chemist and official at Iran’s Natanz uranium enrichment plant, was killed by a car bomb Jan. 11, reportedly while on his way to a memorial service for a scientist slain a year earlier.

For years, Iran has insisted it is only interested in the peaceful uses of atomic energy and has resisted United Nation demands that it abandon its extensive uranium enrichment efforts. Enrichment technology can be used to make fuel for nuclear reactors or fissile material for bombs.

The U.S. and Israel, meanwhile, are believed to have recruited Iranian scientists as agents or encouraged them to defect.

A friend of Dr. Atarodi’s, John Choma, a professor of electrical engineering at the University of Southern California, said he learned of the arrest from Atarodi’s brother, who lives in the Los Angeles area. The brother did not respond to requests for an interview.

Hojabri cited an incident in 2006 when more than 50 Iranian scientists, executives and engineers headed for a forum on disaster management in Santa Clara, Calif., were detained and expelled after their arrival because their visas were revoked. The event was organized by a Sharif University alumni group.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

————————————————————–

To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“MINNEAPOLIS— A 47-count federal indictment unsealed in part late yesterday charges 24 alleged members of the Native Mob gang with conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity and other crimes. The Native Mob is a regional criminal gang that originated in Minneapolis in the early 1990s. Members routinely engage in drug trafficking, assault, robbery and murder. Membership is estimated at 200, with new members, including juveniles, regularly recruited from communities with large, young, male, Native American populations. Association with the gang is often signified by wearing red and black clothing or sporting gang-related tattoos.

Six defendants made their initial federal court appearances late yesterday afternoon. They were apprehended earlier Tuesday, during a take-down conducted by between 100 and 150 local, state, federal, and tribal law enforcement officials. Arrests were made on the White Earth, Mille Lacs, and Leech Lake Indian reservations as well as in the Twin Cities. Of the 18 remaining defendants, 12 are presently in jail or prison on other charges, while six continue to be sought by law enforcement. The six individuals arrested yesterday remain in custody pending their next hearings, scheduled for Jan. 26 and 27.

Earlier today, U.S. Attorney B. Todd Jones said of the investigation, “This investigation exemplifies the law enforcement cooperation we are fortunate to experience here in Minnesota. Local, state, federal, and tribal investigators worked side by side to take down some of the most violent criminals in our state and, in the process, disrupt an extremely dangerous gang that diminishes the quality of life for those who live and work in Native American communities. We owe a debt of gratitude to everyone involved in the investigation. Their efforts have made our streets and communities much safer.”

The indictment alleges that since at least the mid-1990s, the defendants named in this case and others have conspired to conduct criminal activity through an “enterprise,” namely, the Native Mob, in violation of the federal Racketeering Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. The indictment alleges that the primary objective of this “enterprise” is to preserve, protect, promote and enhance the Native Mob’s power, territory, and financial gains.

To that end, gang members purportedly distribute illegal drugs, from crack cocaine to ecstasy. They also reportedly provide monetary support to other members, including those incarcerated; share with one another police reports, victim statements and other case discovery; hinder or obstruct officials from identifying or apprehending those wanted by the law; and intimidate witnesses to Native Mob crimes. Moreover, they purportedly maintain and circulate firearms for gang use and commit acts of violence, including murder, against individuals associated with rival gangs.

Those arrested yesterday, along with their last known residence, include:

• Dale Wesley Ballinger, Jr., 20, Isle, Minn.;
• Damien Lee Beaulieu, 20, Onamia, Minn.;
• Aaron James Gilbert, Jr., 24, Minneapolis;
• Cory Gene Oquist, 22, Bemidji, Minn.;
• Dale John Pindegayosh, 29, Cass Lake, Minn.; and
• Justen Lee Poitra, 26, Cass Lake.

In addition to the racketeering charge filed against all 24 defendants, other charges were levied against some of the defendants. Those charges include conspiracy to use and carry firearms during and in relation to a crime of violence; the use and carrying of firearms during and in relation to a crime of violence; assault with a dangerous weapon in aid of racketeering; attempted murder in aid of racketeering; felon in possession of ammunition; felon in possession of a firearm; armed career criminal in possession of a firearm; possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and a crime of violence; conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances; possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance; distributing a controlled substance; and tampering with a witness. (See the attached chart for a breakdown of charges by defendant. Note, until such time as defendants make their initial appearances in federal court, their names and the specific charges levied against them will not be disclosed.)

If convicted, the defendants face a potential maximum sentence of between 20 years and life in federal prison. Since the federal justice system does not have parole, prison terms would be served virtually in entirety. All sentences will ultimately be determined by a federal district court judge.

This case is the result of a long-term, cross-jurisdictional investigation conducted by local, state, federal and tribal law enforcement officers dedicated to making our streets and communities safer. They include the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives; the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension; the Carlton County, Minn., Sheriff’s Office; the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration; the FBI-funded Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force; the Mille Lacs Tribal Police Department; the Minneapolis Police Department; the Minnesota Department of Corrections; and the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force.

These agencies investigated this case with assistance from—in alphabetical order—the Becker County Sheriff’s Office, the Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office, the Carlton County Attorney’s Office, the Cass County Attorney’s Office, the Cass County Sheriff’s Office, the Crow Wing County Sheriff’s Office, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office of Wisconsin, the Duluth Police Department, the Fon du Lac Tribal Police Department, the Fridley Police Department, the Itasca County Sheriff’s Department, the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, the Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office, the Leech Lake Tribal Police Department, the LCO Reservation Police Department, the Lower Sioux Tribal Police Department, the Mahnomen County Sheriff’s Office, the Minnesota State Patrol, the Mille Lacs County Attorney’s Office, the Mille Lacs County Sheriff’s Office, the New Brighton Police Department, the North Central Drug Task Force, the Prior Lake Police Department, the Red Lake Tribal Police Department, the Redwood County Sheriff’s Office, Richfield Police Department, the Sherburne County Sheriff’s Office, the St. Paul Police Department, the U.S. Marshal’s Service, the Minneapolis Violent Offender Task Force, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the White Earth Tribal Police Department.

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Andrew R. Winter and Steven L. Schleicher.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

————————————————————–

To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.

“Two Mexican Mafia Members and 117 San Diego County, California Street Gang Members and Associates with Ties to the Mexican Mafia Charged with Racketeering Conspiracy, Drug Trafficking Violations, and Firearms Offenses

119 Individuals Charged in Three Countywide Law Enforcement Operations

SAN DIEGO—A federal grand jury in San Diego has handed up 17 indictments and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of California has filed eight criminal complaints charging a total of 119 defendants with federal racketeering conspiracy, drug trafficking violations, and federal firearm offenses, announced U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of California Laura E. Duffy.

U.S. Attorney Duffy said, “The cases unsealed today make communities stronger and safer. The United States Attorney’s Office is committed to an anti-gang, anti-violence strategy built on close coordination between federal, state and local officials. This coordination provides better intelligence about street gangs and violent crime within our communities. And better intelligence means better law enforcement and prosecutions.”

FBI Special Agent in Charge Keith Slotter commented, “Today’s arrests mark one of the largest single takedowns in San Diego FBI history. The FBI and our law enforcement partners stand unified in our efforts to protect this county from the violence, drug trafficking and extortion schemes employed by the Mexican Mafia and its affiliates. San Diego is inherently safer today because of the cooperation between our agencies working together to disrupt and dismantle the criminal activities of these dangerous individuals.”

“This is a traditional case of dishonor amongst thieves,” commented San Diego County Sheriff Bill Gore. “Gangs were made to pay ‘taxes’ in order to facilitate their trafficking and violent behavior. We answered with a one-two punch: a strong and experienced multi-agency investigation, armed with the RICO statute. The results speak for themselves.”

The charges stem from three investigations entitled, “Operation Notorious County,” “Operation Carnalismo,” and “Operation 12-Step.”

“Operation Notorious County”

The indictments are the result of an 18-month-long investigation entitled, “Operation Notorious County,” led by the North County Regional Gang Task force. Eight indictments charging 51 individuals, including one charging 40 defendants with participating in a federal Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organization (RICO) conspiracy were unsealed today. All five indictments were handed up by a federal grand jury sitting in San Diego on Jan. 19, 2012. The RICO conspiracy alleged in the indictment involves the commission of both state and federal crimes, including attempted murder, kidnapping, robbery, extortion, money laundering, and drug trafficking violations. As set forth in the indictment, the defendants are members, associates and facilitators of violent street gangs operating primarily in north San Diego County under the auspices of the Mexican Mafia or “La Eme.” The gangs named in the indictment include the Diablos and West Side gangs, based in Escondido, Calif., as well as the Varrio San Marcos and the Varrio Fallbrook Locos. The individuals named in the indictment were involved in a long-standing criminal enterprise used to extort money by threat or violence. The money was then sent on to high-ranking members of the Mexican Mafia, including defendant Rudy Espudo. The indictment alleges that Espudo is a validated member of the Mexican Mafia who oversees their activities throughout much of northern San Diego County.

“Operation Carnalismo”

In “Operation Carnalismo,” led by the Violent Crime Task Force-Gang Group, a group of federal, state, and local law enforcement agents led by the FBI, five indictments charging 36 individuals were unsealed today. Eight defendants are charged in one indictment with a conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity (RICO), violent crime in aid of racketeering (VCAR), distribution and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin and criminal forfeiture. Four additional indictments, charging 28 defendants were also unsealed. These related indictments charge distribution and conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and criminal forfeiture. All five indictments were handed up by a federal grand jury sitting in San Diego on Jan. 24, 2012, and unsealed today. The RICO indictment charges the criminal enterprise was run by Mexican Mafia member Salvador Colabella. Colabella and his associates conspired to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, extorted and robbed others, and laundered drug-trafficking proceeds. Colabella and his associates collected the extortion payments through the threat of violence and the commission of violence. According to the indictment, the Mexican Mafia has about 200 members, but its reach extends to thousands of Hispanic street-gang members in Southern California. A Mexican Mafia member is the highest level one can attain in the Mexican Mafia. A member, also called “Brother” or “Carnal” or “Tio,” controls, exploits and profits from the criminal activity conducted by street-gang members and others. This control over the criminal activity is enforced through acts of violence or the threat of violence.

“Operation 12-Step”

This year-long investigation, known as “Operation 12-Step,” was led by the East County Regional Gang Task Force, a group of federal and state law enforcement led by the FBI and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. Operation 12-Step focused on gang-related methamphetamine distribution activities in San Diego County. Today four indictments and eight complaints were unsealed charging 32 individuals with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. According to court records, individuals charged in this investigation belong to nine different criminal street gangs including Varrio Chula Vista, East Side Piru, Old Town National City, Shelltown, National City Locos, Imperial Beach Imperials, Paradise Hills, Varrio Encanto Locos and National City Block Boys. Between Feb. 22, 2011, and Dec. 13, 2011, law enforcement made more than 20 methamphetamine and heroin seizures in connection with this investigation. In addition, search warrants were executed at eight residences in San Diego; Spring Valley, Calif.; National City, Calif.; Imperial Beach, Calif.; and Chula Vista, Calif..

U.S. Attorney Duffy praised the coordinated effort of the law enforcement agencies of the Violent Crimes Task Force-Gang Group, the East County and North County Regional Gang Task Forces under the Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) for the coordinated team effort culminating in the charges filed in these cases. The OCDETF program was created to consolidate and utilize all law enforcement resources in this country’s battle against major drug trafficking.

The cases are being investigated by the FBI, the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives; the National City, Calif., Police Department; the San Diego Police Department; the Escondido, Calif., Police Department; the Carlsbad, Calif., Police Department; the U.S. Marshals Service; the La Mesa, Calif., Police Department; the El Cajon, Calif., Police Department; the San Diego County District Attorney’s Office; the U.S. Bureau of Prisons; the California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation; the San Diego County Probation Department; Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations; Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations; and Customs and Border Protection-United States Border Patrol.

The cases are being prosecuted in San Diego federal court by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Peter Mazza, Jaime Parks, Fred Sheppard and Tara McGrath.

An indictment or a complaint are not evidence that the defendants committed the crimes charged. The defendants are presumed innocent until the government meets its burden in court of proving guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.”

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Douglas McNabb – McNabb Associates, P.C.’s
Federal Criminal Defense Attorneys Videos:

Federal Crimes – Be Careful

Federal Crimes – Be Proactive

Federal Crimes – Federal Indictment

Federal Crimes – Detention Hearing

Federal Mail Fraud Crimes

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To find additional federal criminal news, please read Federal Crimes Watch Daily.

Douglas McNabb and other members of the U.S. law firm practice and write and/or report extensively on matters involving Federal Criminal Defense, INTERPOL Red Notice Removal, International Extradition and OFAC SDN Sanctions Removal.

The author of this blog is Douglas McNabb. Please feel free to contact him directly at mcnabb@mcnabbassociates.com or at one of the offices listed above.