PRESS RELEASES - SEPTEMBER 2007
September 05, 2007 - BROWN, Troy Andrew
September 05, 2007 - COOPER, Billy Wayne
September 06, 2007 - JOHNSON, Leslie Barnard
September 06, 2007 - POOLE, John Charles
September 06, 2007 - PRICE, Brandie Zane
September 10, 2007 - MIELNICKI, Robert David, Jr.
a/k/a MIELNICKI, Rob
September 10, 2007 - SHEARON, Bobby Dale
September 10, 2007 - WILEY, David Lee
September 11, 2007 - CAULEY, Kevin
September 11, 2007 - COOK, Billy (Billy Cook Harness and Saddle, Inc.)
September 12, 2007 - FEDERAL GRAND JURY INDICTMENTS - SEPTEMBER 2007
CANTRELL, David W.
DIXON, Maurice Obie
GILBERT, Darrin Ted
LONG, Christopher Dale
MORRIS, Mary Jo
ORR, Djuan Jahmar
WATKINS, Elvin Clifford
WILSON, Stacie Michelle
September 13, 2007 - PEREZ-PEREZ, Calletano
a/k/a ISCARAS, Victor
September 13, 2007 - REESE, Melissa Gail
a/k/a PRATT, Melissa Gail
September 13, 2007 - SANCHEZ-GUZMAN , German
September 21, 2007 - ARIAS, Meirelys
September 21, 2007 - MCGEE, Heather
September 21, 2007 - ONG, Ivy Kwok
a/k/a ONG, Ivy
September 25, 2007 - KRAMER, William Scott
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FOR RELEASE: September 05, 2007
SUBJECT: BROWN, Troy Andrew
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that TROY ANDREW BROWN, age 41, of Carter County, was sentenced for Bank Robbery, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. Section 2113(a).
“BROWN was sentenced to 80 months imprisonment, 24 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The charge arose from an investigation by Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ardmore Police Department,” recalled United States Attorney Sperling. “BROWN pled guilty on May 3, 2007.”
“On April 4, 2007, BROWN entered BancFirst, located at 1915 N. Commerce in Ardmore, Oklahoma with panty hose covering his face. BROWN pointed a toy pistol at the clerk and demanded money. BROWN left the bank with approximately $7,977.00. A witness followed BROWN and called the Ardmore Police Department. Police located and pursued BROWN’s vehicle. During the pursuit BROWN collided with another vehicle. The pursuit continued until BROWN crashed his vehicle into a fence and fled on foot. BROWN was subsequently arrested.”
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 05, 2007
SUBJECT: COOPER, Billy Wayne
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that BILLY WAYNE COOPER, age 45, of Bryan County, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Felon in Possession of Ammunition.
“COOPER was sentenced to 51 months imprisonment, 24 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offenses took place on the 26th day of June, 2006, in Bryan County. Charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and Oklahoma Department of Corrections, Probation and Parole,” recalled United States Attorney Sperling. “COOPER pled guilty on February 28, 2007.”
“Oklahoma Department of Corrections Probation and Parole Officers went to COOPER's residence to execute a parole warrant. COOPER was apprehended. During the search incident to the arrest, officers located .22 caliber bullets in COOPER's pants pocket,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marsha to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 06, 2007
SUBJECT: JOHNSON, Leslie Barnard
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that LESLIE BARNARD JOHNSON, age 40, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.
“JOHNSON was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment, 36 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offenses took place from about May, 2006, continuing through February 20, 2007, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. Charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Smith Police Department and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service,” recalled U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“JOHNSON pled guilty on April12, 2007, to a one count information charging him with possessing 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable quantity of methamphetamine with intent to distribute,” U.S. Attorney Sperling stated.
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 06, 2007
SUBJECT: POOLE, John Charles
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JOHN CHARLES POOLE, age 44, of Cherokee County, Oklahoma, was sentenced for assimilated assault and battery domestic violence in the presence of a minor and attempting to influence the testimony of another.
“POOLE was sentenced to 37 months imprisonment, 24 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $325.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“Charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service,” commented U.S. Attorney Sperling. “At trial the evidence showed that the defendant assaulted his 21 year old Cherokee Indian girlfriend, who was five months pregnant at the time. During the course of the investigation, POOLE attempted to influence the testimony of the prosecution’s witnesses, including that of the victim, through manipulation and intimidation.”
“When federal jurisdiction extends to domestic violence in Indian country, tribal, federal, county, and municipal officers, agents and prosecutors work quickly and effectively.”
“The sentence imposed by the court is a tribute to a cooperative investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service and the FBI. This case was the subject of exceptional committed trial work by AUSAs Linda Epperley and Dean Burris and our Victim Witness Specialist Mary Jo Speaker,” noted U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Linda Epperley represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 06, 2007
SUBJECT: PRICE, Brandie Zane
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that BRANDIE ZANE PRICE, age 28, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, was sentenced for possession of methamphetamine in excess of 500 grams of mixture or substance containing a detectable quantity of methamphetamine with intent to distribute the substance.
“PRICE was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, 36 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offenses took place from about May 2006 to February 2007 in Sequoyah County . Charges arose from an investigation by Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office, Cherokee Nation Marshal Service and the Fort Smith Police Department,” recalled U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“PRICE pled guilty on April 23, 2007, to an information charging her with possession of methamphetamine in excess of 500 grams of mixture or substance containing a detectable quantity of methamphetamine with intent to distribute the substance. The sentence was significantly impacted by PRICE’s testimony in the case of the United States vs. Kenneth Eugene Barrett. It shows the value of citizen and defendant cooperation with law enforcement investigations of all kinds.”
“In this case, the court’s sentence reaffirmed a very important principle. Truthful cooperation with law enforcement officers should be encouraged and rewarded,” noted U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving her sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 10, 2007
SUBJECT: MIELNICKI, Robert David, Jr.; a/k/a MIELNICKI, Rob
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that ROBERT DAVID MIELNICKI, JR., a/k/a ROB MIELNICKI, age 24, of Ft. Worth, Texas, was sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Credit Union Robbery and Credit Union Robbery.
“MIELNICKI was sentenced to 48 months imprisonment, 36 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $200.00. The defendant was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,472.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The offenses took place from February 28, 2007, continuing until March 2, 2007. Charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ardmore Police Department,” recalled U.S. Attorney Sperling. “MIELNICKI pled guilty on May 24, 2007.”
“The defendant was part of a conspiracy to rob the MTC Federal Credit Union in Ardmore, Oklahoma of approximately $6,674.00 on March 2, 2007,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling. “MIELNICKI presented a note to the teller demanding money. After receiving the money, he returned to the get-away vehicle, driven by his co-defendant DAVID LEE WILEY, age 19, of Carter County, Oklahoma,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge Payne ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Paul G. Hess represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 10, 2007
SUBJECT: SHEARON, Bobby Dale
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that BOBBY DALE SHEARON, age 57, of Seligman, Arizona, was sentenced for Embezzlement of Government Funds.
“SHEARON was sentenced to 60 months of probation. SHEARON was also ordered to pay $22,929.00 in restitution and a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offenses took place from about April, 2002 through August, 2004 in Marshall County, Oklahoma. Charges arose from an investigation by Social Security Administration/Office of the Inspector General (SSA/OIG),” recalled United States Attorney Sperling. “SHEARON pled guilty on May 9, 2007.”
“While receiving Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits for disabilities, SHEARON worked as a fishing guide on Lake Texoma. SHEARON purchased a boat for use in his business. SHEARON attempted to conceal ownership of the boat and other assets by registering them in the name of his daughter. SHEARON also made false statements to the SSA when asked about his fishing business and his ownership interest in these substantial resources. As a result, SHEARON received $22,929.00 in SSI benefits to which he was not entitled,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 10, 2007
SUBJECT: WILEY, David Lee
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DAVID LEE WILEY, age 19, of Carter County, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Credit Union Robbery.
“WILEY was sentenced to 24 months imprisonment, 24 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00. WILEY was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,472.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offenses took place from February 28, 2007, continuing until March 2, 2007. Charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Ardmore Police Department,” recalled U.S. Attorney Sperling. “WILEY pled guilty on May 4, 2007.”
“WILEY was part of a conspiracy to rob the MTC Federal Credit Union in Ardmore, Oklahoma of approximately $6,674.00 on March 2, 2007,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling. “WILEY waited outside the credit union in the get-away vehicle while co-defendant ROBERT DAVID MIELNICKI, age 24, of Ft. Worth, Texas, went inside, presented a note to the teller demanding money, and returned to the vehicle with the money.”
“The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge Payne ordered the defendant to surrender to the BOP to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Paul G. Hess represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 11, 2007
SUBJECT: CAULEY, Kevin
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced KEVIN CAULEY, age 45, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced for three counts of Possession with Intent to Distribute Cocaine, Marijuana, and Ecstasy.
“CAULEY was sentenced to 44 months imprisonment, 48 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offenses took place on February 14, 2007. Charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma Highway Patrol,” recalled United States Attorney Sperling. “CAULEY pled guilty on April 24, 2007.”
“The charges arose from a traffic stop conducted by Oklahoma Highway Patrol on Highway 69. CAULEY, his co-defendant NOLAN WELCH, age 29, of Houston, Texas, and two females were traveling northbound on Highway 69 at an excessive rate of speed and crossed the center line on the highway,” commented U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling. “Upon executing the stop, the trooper detected the smell of marijuana. After issuing a warning to CAULEY, the trooper received consent to search the vehicle and recovered cocaine, marijuana, Ectasy and Xanax. The females involved in this incident are being prosecuted by state authorities.”
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Dennis A. Fries represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 11, 2007
SUBJECT: COOK, Billy (Billy Cook Harness and Saddle, Inc.)
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that BILLY COOK HARNESS AND SADDLE, INC., a Texas Corporation authorized to conduct business in the State of Oklahoma, pled guilty to a one felony count information charging Furnishing False Information to the Commissioner of Social Security, in violation of 42 U.S.C. § 408(a)(6), punishable by up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $500,000.00, or both and payment of a special assessment of $100.00.
“BILLY COOK HARNESS AND SADDLE, INC., a saddle and tack manufacturing company, in Sulphur, Oklahoma, was the focus of an investigation by the United States Department of Homeland Security - Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and the United States Social Security Administration (SSA). In the spring of 2006, ICE agents were informed that BILLY COOK HARNESS AND SADDLE, INC. was employing illegal aliens in the saddle shop. In August 2006, a federal search warrant was executed at the business and ICE agents discovered 51 illegal aliens employed at the factory. Agents also discovered that BILLY COOK HARNESS AND SADDLE, INC. had failed to create and maintain mandatory immigration forms (Form I9) on each of the employees. Also during the investigation it was determined that the Social Security Administration and the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) had previously notified BILLY COOK HARNESS AND SADDLE, INC. that employee social security numbers which the company had reported to the SSA were not proper,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“BILLY COOK, age 77, of Sulphur, Oklahoma, waived indictment by a federal grand jury. On behalf of himself and the corporation he then pled guilty to misdemeanor crimes of Conspiracy to Unlawfully Employ Aliens and Unlawful Employing of Aliens in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371 and 8 U.S.C. § 1324(a) respectively. COOK admitted he had agreed with his longtime employee, RUTILIO OSORNIO, age 47, to hire illegal aliens that OSORNIO introduced to COOK. He also admitted that he hired illegal aliens who gave him the wrong social security numbers. He further admitted that he and OSORNIA conspired to unlawfully employ illegal aliens. Each of the offenses carry imprisonment of not more than 6 months and/or a fine of not more than $3,000.00 for each alien illegally employed and payment of a $25.00 special assessment,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“RUTILIO OSORNIO, of Sulphur, Oklahoma, a longtime employee of Billy Cook at BILLY COOK HARNESS AND SADDLE, INC., is a naturalized U.S. Citizen, who has been in the country since 1979. He pled guilty to Conspiracy to Unlawfully Employ Aliens, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 371. OSORNIO admitted to bringing illegal aliens to be hired by Billy Cook at the saddle company. OSORNIO also faces imprisonment of up to 6 months and/or a fine of not more than $3,000.00 for each alien illegally employed and payment of a $25.00 special assessment,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“This case presented a classic clash between competing government objectives. We are obligated to prosecute violations of immigration law. We are also charged to remove aliens and apportion scarce detention dollars,” remarked U.S. Attorney Sperling. “Federal ICE agents and Social Security Administration, Office of Inspector General agents performed admirably in this investigation.”
“Bottom line? The aliens were removed and the employer is being held responsible,” added U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the defendant’s guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.
“Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government. Phil Hurst, of Sulphur, Oklahoma, represented the defendants.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 12, 2007
SUBJECT: FEDERAL GRAND JURY INDICTMENTS - SEPTEMBER 2007 - CANTRELL, David W.; DIXON, Maurice Obie; GILBERT, Darrin Ted; LONG, Christopher Dale; MORRIS, Mary Jo; ORR, Djuan Jahmar; WATKINS, Elvin Clifford; WILSON, Stacie Michelle
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - United States Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling announced today the results of the September 2007 Federal Grand Jury.
The following named individuals have been charged with a federal crime or crimes by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury. A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant. A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt. Statutory maximum punishments are in parentheses. United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court. Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.
DAVID W. CANTRELL, age 32, of Stigler, Oklahoma, Theft of Mail Matter by Postal Employee.
Charges arose from an investigation by the United States Postal Service, Office of Inspector General. On or about the 15th day of March, 2007, CANTRELL allegedly took articles contained within a package in the possession of the United States Postal Service for the purpose of being conveyed by mail.
The charges are in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. Section 1709. (Up to 5 years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000 Fine)
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace
MARY JO MORRIS, age 41, of Porum, Oklahoma, Theft of Government Funds.
The charge is the result of an investigation conducted by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General. During the period from April, 2004 to September, 2005 MORRIS is alleged to have knowingly converted to her own use benefits, to which she was not entitled, having a value of approximately $10,638.00.
The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641. (Up to 10 years imprisonment and/or fines of up to $250,000.00)
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson
ELVIN CLIFFORD WATKINS, age 48, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania. Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The defendant allegedly possessed in excess of 60 kilograms of marijuana with the intent to distribute. The offense took place on August 13, 2007, in Sequoyah County.
The charge is in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C). (Up to 20 years imprisonment and/or fines of up to $2,000,000.00)
Assistant United States Attorney Linda A. Epperley
DARRIN TED GILBERT, age 38, of Sulphur, Oklahoma. Production of Child Pornography.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant allegedly used a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct, using materials that have been mailed, shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. The alleged offense took place during a period between December 1, 2006 and May 1, 2007 in Murray County.
The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a). (Not less than 15 years nor more than 30 years imprisonment and/or fines of up to $250,000.00)
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson
CHRISTOPHER DALE LONG, age 27, of Pontotoc County, Oklahoma. Production of Child Pornography.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant allegedly used a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct, using materials that have been mailed, shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. The alleged offense took place on or about February 6, 2007, in Pontotoc County.
The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a) and Title 18 United States Code, Section 2. (Not less than 15 years nor more than 30 years imprisonment and/or fines of up to $250,000.00)
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson
STACIE MICHELLE WILSON, age 27, of Pontotoc County, Oklahoma. Production of Child Pornography.
The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The defendant allegedly used a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct, using materials that have been mailed, shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce. The alleged offense took place on or about February 6, 2007, in Pontotoc County.
The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a) and Title 18 United States Code, Section 2. (Not less than 15 years nor more than 30 years imprisonment and/or fines of up to $250,000.00)
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson
DJUAN JAHMAR ORR, age 38, of Oak Park, Michigan. Possession of Fifteen or More Counterfeit Access Devices and Use of a Counterfeit Access Device.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Secret Service. The defendant allegedly possessed fifteen or more access devices, which are counterfeit or unauthorized access devices with said activity affecting interstates commerce. The alleged offense took place on August 24, 2007.
The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(a)(3), Title 18 United States Code, Section 1029(a)(1) and Title 18 United States Code, Section 2. (Not more than ten (10) years imprisonment and/or a fines of up to $250,00.00)
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson
MAURICE OBIE DIXON, age 46, of Lancaster, Texas. Possession of Fifteen or More Counterfeit Access Devices.
The charge arose from an investigation by the United States Secret Service. The defendant allegedly possessed fifteen or more access devices, which are counterfeit or unauthorized access devices with said activity affecting interstates commerce. The alleged offense took place on August 24, 2007.
The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(a)(3) and Title 18 United States Code, Section 2. (Not more than ten (10) years imprisonment and/or a fines of up to $250,000.00)
Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson
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FOR RELEASE: September 13, 2007
SUBJECT: PEREZ-PEREZ, Calletano; a/k/a ISCARAS, Victor
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CALLETANO PEREZ-PEREZ, a/k/a Victor Iscaras, age 29, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced for Interstate Transportation in Aid of Racketeering Enterprise.
“PEREZ-PEREZ was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment, 24 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offenses took place on February 3, 2005, in Sequoyah County. Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol,” recalled United States Attorney Sperling. PEREZ-PEREZ pled guilty June 26, 2007.”
During a traffic stop on I-40 in Sequoyah County Oklahoma Highway Patrol found just under three pounds of 99% pure methamphetamine and a small amount of marijuana in a vehicle driven by PEREZ-PEREZ,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 13, 2007
SUBJECT: REESE, Melissa Gail; a/k/a PRATT, Melissa Gail
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that MELISSA GAIL REESE aka MELISSA GAIL PRATT, age 22, of Roland, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Possession of Methamphetamine with Intent to Distribute.
“REESE was sentenced to 82 months imprisonment, 60 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling. “The defendant was ordered to forfeit $10,036.00”
“The offenses took place from about May, 2006, continuing through February 20, 2007, in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. Charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Sequoyah County Sheriff’s Office, Fort Smith Police Department and the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service,” recalled U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“REESE pled guilty on March 29, 2007, to a two count information charging her with possessing 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing a detectable quantity of methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession of $10,036.00 in proceeds of the offense,” U.S. Attorney Sperling stated.
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge Ronald A. White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving her sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 13, 2007
SUBJECT: SANCHEZ-GUZMAN , German
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that GERMAN SANCHEZ-GUZMAN, age 35, of Michoacan, Mexico, was sentenced for Reentry of Deported Alien.
“SANCHEZ-GUZMAN was sentenced to 85 months imprisonment, 36 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offenses took place on November 13, 2006, in Sequoyah County. Charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement,” recalled United States Attorney Sperling. “SANCHEZ-GUZMAN pled guilty on February 23, 2007.”
“SANCHEZ-GUZMAN was deported from the United States on June 9, 1997, after deportation proceedings. SANCHEZ-GUZMAN’s arrest and conviction in Sequoyah County, on November 13, 2006, alerted the Bureau of Immigration and Customs Enforcement that he had illegally reentered the United States.
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge White ordered the defendant remain in custody of the U.S. Marshal to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Paul G. Hess represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 21, 2007
SUBJECT: ARIAS, Meirelys
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that MEIRELYS ARIAS, age 28, of Arlington, Texas, pled guilty to bank fraud, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 1344.
“Charges arose from an investigation by the United States Secret Service. Beginning in or around August, 2005, and continuing to in or around December, 2005, ARIAS executed a scheme to obtain money, funds, credit or assets in the amount of $27,540.68, which were owned by or under the custody or control of the Bank of America, a financial institution by means of false or fraudulent pretenses or representations,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“ARIAS made false reports of her credit card and PIN number being lost or stolen. During each of the reports to Bank of America, multiple transactions were conducted at the Windstar Casino in Thackerville, Oklahoma. An initial investigation revealed that the subject was present at the Windstar Casino during each reported theft, using her players club card and an additional Bank of America card, neither of which were reported lost or stolen,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the defendant’s guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. The defendant remains free on bond pending sentencing.”
“The statutory range of punishment is up to 30 years imprisonment and/or up to $1,000,000.00 in fines,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Assistant United States Attorney Ryan M. Roberts represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 21, 2007
SUBJECT: MCGEE, Heather
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that HEATHER McGEE, age 29, of Hanna, Oklahoma, pled guilty to one count of use of a communication facility in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Section 843(b).
“Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics and the McAlester Police Department. From about December 5, 2006, and continuing until January 4, 2007, McGEE used a telephone, in the distribution of methamphetamine,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The investigation stems from numerous search warrant executions resulting in arrests made by Federal and local law enforcement agencies working together.”
“The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the defendant’s guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion. The defendant remains free on bond pending sentencing.”
“The statutory range of punishment is up to 4 years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000.00 in fines,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Assistant United States Attorney Dennis A. Fries represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 21, 2007
SUBJECT: ONG, Ivy Kwok; a/k/a ONG, Ivy
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that IVY KWOK ONG, a/k/a Ivy Ong, age 65, of El Paso, TX, the operator of Carlo Worldwide Operations, LLC, a Nevada corporation active in supplying video gaming machines to tribal casinos, pled guilty to a two-count felony information. “The defendant was charged, and now stands convicted, of Conspiracy to Commit Tax Evasion and Conspiracy to Pay and Receive Illegal Gratuities, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §371, 201(c)(1)(A)&(B) and 26 U.S.C. §7201,” reported U.S. Attorney Sperling. “Each count is punishable by up to five years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000.00, or both and payment of a special assessment of $200.00. ONG also agreed to forfeit his interest in a gated-community home in Choctaw, Oklahoma and a 15-acre horse farm in Lexington, Kentucky which were purchased with proceeds of his criminal activities. The properties are estimated to be worth over $1,000,000.00.”
“ONG was the focus of an investigation by the United States Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), the United States Internal Revenue Service (IRS), the United States Department of Interior Inspector General (DOIOIG), the United States Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC),” U.S. Attorney Sperling noted. “In February 2001, the BIA was approached by local law enforcement officials complaining that a prostitution and drug ring was operating in the parking lot of the Seminole Nation I-40 travel plaza and casino,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling. “Federal authorities were already engaged in a lawsuit, then dismissed by the federal court, in an attempt to close the facility for operating illegal Class III slot machines. The government’s position was later vindicated on appeal.”
“Our focus then shifted from the parking lot to activities inside the casino and on to the operators and investors financing the Seminole casinos,” said U.S. Attorney Sperling. “What the investigators found deeply disturbed us.”
“AUSA Linda Epperley ably represented the U.S. Atorney’s Office in this case,” U.S. Attorney Sperling observed. “We are also grateful for the litigation skills of AUSA Jeff Gallant. Their combined expertise in the areas of Indian gambling, tax evasion, and money laundering was instrumental to the successful conclusion of this matter.”
“According to the guilty plea entered today, beginning in August 2000, ONG and the tribe entered into a series of agreements for ONG to build or update four casinos in Seminole County and to provide video games at those locations. Under the agreements, ONG’s company got 40% of the net winnings and the tribe received the remaining 60%,” AUSA Epperley disclosed. “The agreements provided an additional benefit to ONG. Because ONG negotiated with the tribe as a machine vendor, rather than a gaming manager, his agreements were not reviewed by the NIGC, and ONG did not undergo a background check,” explained U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“A cursory background check of publicly-available records would have revealed a criminal record in California, alleged ties to organized crime in Nevada and an unpaid tax liability to the IRS,” noted U.S. Attorney Sperling. “The Information filed states that ONG owed nearly $200,000 to the IRS for taxes unpaid in 1991, 1995, 1997, and 1999-2001. ONG used the cash generated from the Seminole casinos to set up various bank accounts and manipulate financial records to hide his assets from the IRS. The two pieces of property that he agreed to forfeit today were purchased with funds from the scheme and placed in the names of third parties to conceal and disguise ONG’s true ownership.”
“Tracing ONG’s finances revealed unusual payments to some tribal leaders and required the investigation of other targets and subjects. Over the past six years, the records of over 70 bank accounts have been reviewed and rooms full of documents have been examined. Funds have been traced going through ONG, Carlo Worldwide, and Seminole casinos from multiple states and several foreign countries. Due to ONG’s attempts to open an Indian casino in the Hamptons and ONG’s direction that his 40% monthly payments be split with gambling-connected companies in Costa Rico, the money trail stretched far beyond a travel plaza on I-40. Each new account generated another list of individuals to be interviewed and leads to be followed. Federal agents have worked countless hours and performed admirably in this investigation. We anticipate that this is just the first of several prosecutions arising from this investigation.”
“The Information refers to at least three tribal public officials who requested and received illegal gratuities from ONG to advance and protect ONG’s gambling business with the Tribe. Person “A” was a General Council member and Seminole Nation Development Authority (SNDA) member who received at least 16 payments totaling $44,100 from ONG and Carlo. ONG paid a mortgage deficiency and attorney fees in the amount of $7,190.82 for Person “B” who served on the General Council and a gaming commission, had a mortgage. Person “C”, who also served as a General Council member and SNDA member, received home renovations for which ONG paid $8,607. The Information states that other individuals created false documents and doctored business records to conceal such payments from authorities.”
“While I will not elaborate on the identities of the unnamed co-conspirators referenced in the Information, I do want to mention three persons who are not implicated,” noted U.S. Attorney Sperling. “Former Chief Jerry Haney was informed of this investigation in 2001 and was asked to keep his knowledge confidential, which he did over the next two years at great personal and political cost. Current Chief Enoch Kelly Haney had also been made aware of the investigation and has been extremely supportive at every turn. Finally, Qazi Alam, the former SNDA Director who was initially considered at target of the investigation, has been cleared by ONG. ONG has told prosecutors that he offered a Rolex© watch to Mr. Alam and cash bonuses to Alam’s employees, but Mr. Alam refused all offers as unethical and unlawful. ONG said that, ‘Lots of others asked, but not Qazi,’ ” said U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Bottom line? This was a man who should never have been allowed anywhere near an Indian gaming facility,” added U.S. Attorney Sperling. “Until we have a method of tracing not only those who manage, but also those who supply or invest in tribal casinos, Indian Country remains vulnerable to infiltration by those like defendant ONG.”
“The Honorable Steven P. Shreder, Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, accepted the defendant’s guilty plea and ordered the completion of a presentence report. Sentencing will be scheduled following its completion.”
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FOR RELEASE: September 25, 2007
SUBJECT: KRAMER, William Scott
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that WILLIAM SCOTT KRAMER, age 37, of Tahlequah, Oklahoma, was sentenced for giving false information or hoax.
“KRAMER was sentenced to 12 months imprisonment, 36 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol Bomb Squad, the Northeastern State University (NSU) Police Department, and the City of Tahlequah police and fire departments,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The affidavit underlying the federal complaint, asserts the following,” U.S. Attorney Sperling reported. “On April 25, 2007, a note and a hoax device were found in the University Center cafeteria area. The defendant, an employee of Sodexo (food service for NSU), was identified from surveillance video as having been in the area around the time of the incident. KRAMER was questioned by NSU Police Department personnel the following day and allegedly admitted to writing and placing the note and the hoax device at the University Center cafeteria near the trash cans.”
“The law permits detention if a defendant is likely to flee or poses a danger to the community. Under the unique facts relevant to this defendant, the court could not so find. The alleged hoax was taken very seriously by law enforcement and university officials,” recalled U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“This guy is going to prison . . . period. Why? He scared people and wasted lots of law enforcement and student time.”
“When the defendant verbalized his bomb threat, NSU, Tahlequah Police Department and Cherokee County Officers engaged ATF Agents. In this day and age, we have to take every bomb threat seriously. We have to evacuate, investigate and prosecute. It no joke – hoax or not,” remarked U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable James H. Payne, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Judge Payne ordered the defendant to surrender to the Bureau of Prisons on October 25, 2007 to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Paul G. Hess represented the government.”
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