PRESS RELEASES - OCTOBER 2007
October 03, 2007 - BERTRAM, Eric Nelson
October 05, 2007 - STIPE, Eugene E.
STIPE, Francis D.
October 09, 2007 - LOOPER, Ashley Nicholle
October 10, 2007 - LANGSTON, Clinton Everett
October 10, 2007 - OPERATION SIXKILLER ROUND-UP
October 11, 2007 - DAWSON, Curry Adoyle
October 11, 2007 - JOHNSON, Glenda Darlene
October 11, 2007 - WARLEDO, Lucas
October 16, 2007 - GILBERT, Darrin Ted
October 16, 2007 - WRIGHT, James Brian
October 17, 2007 - ROGERS, Carroll Wayne
October 18, 2007 - KEITH, David Tobe
October 18, 2007 - MCADAMS, Joseph Alondo
October 19, 2007 - FEDERAL PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE PERSONNEL CHANGES
October 24, 2007 - DIXON, Maurice Obie
October 25, 2007 - BARNETT, Keith L.
October 25, 2007 - EPPERSON, Haden Ryan
October 25, 2007 - WATKINS, Elvin Clifford
October 26, 2007 - RICE, Jack
October 26, 2007 - SHELTON, James
October 29, 2007 - POWDRILL, Shamarcus
October 30, 2007 - FRY, Brian
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FOR RELEASE: October 03, 2007
SUBJECT: BERTRAM, Eric Nelson
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced a jury verdict of guilty was returned today for ERIC NELSON BERTRAM, age 56, of Muskogee, Oklahoma. The federal jury found the defendant guilty of Felon in Possession of a Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g)(1).
“Agencies involved in the investigation were the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Muskogee Police Department,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling. “BERTRAM was indicted on February 14, 2007.”
“On September 20, 2006, BERTRAM, a convicted felon, was stopped for speeding by the Muskogee Police Department (MPD). Upon making contact with BERTRAM, the MPD officer noticed that BERTRAM’s hands were shaking and BERTRAM said he was very scared of the police. During a search of BERTRAM’s vehicle, officers located a loaded Hi-Point 9mm pistol lying on the front floorboard with another loaded magazine next to it, Officers also found a vitamin bottle containing ammunition. The defendant also had a loaded Davis Industries 38 special derringer in his pocket,” reported U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable James H. Payne, Senior District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over the trial. Following the jury’s return of guilty verdicts, Judge Payne ordered the defendant detained in the custody of the U.S. Marshal Service, pending sentencing. Sentencing will be scheduled after the preparation of a presentence report.”
“Under the applicable statute, BERTRAM could receive up to ten (10) years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000.00 in fines.”
“Assistant United States Attorney Chris Wilson represented the government and BERTRAM represented himself at trial.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 05, 2007
SUBJECT: STIPE, Eugene E.; and STIPE, Francis D.
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that EUGENE E. STIPE, age 80, and FRANCIS D. STIPE, age 76, both of McAlester, Oklahoma, were indicted today before a federal grand jury in Muskogee on conspiracy related charges.
“The Indictment charges both defendants, who are brothers, with Conspiracy to Commit Fraud, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. Section 371; Honest Services Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18, U.S. C. Sections 1341, 1346 and 2; Tampering with a Witness, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. Sections 1512(b)(1) and 2; and Engaging in an Illegal Monetary Transaction, in violation of Title 18, U.S.C. Sections 1957 and 2,” U.S. Attorney Sperling reported.
“Count I of the Indictment alleges that EUGENE STIPE and FRANCIS STIPE knowingly conspired with each other and with others, to commit Counts II and III of the Indictment - Mail Fraud and Tampering with a witness. Specifically, the Indictment alleges that the defendants steered funds appropriated by the Legislature of the State of Oklahoma to an entity known as the McAlester Foundation (MF). MF used these funds to purchase real estate owned by EUGENE STIPE for a business known as National Pet Products (NPP).”
“The Indictment further alleges that the object the conspiracy was to recoup $50,000.00 provided to a failed congressional campaign. The money was in the form of a loan by FRANCIS STIPE to an industrial credit corporation, which then provided the funds to Walt Roberts for use in his 1998 congressional campaign. The money was to be recovered from funds appropriated by the Legislature of the State of Oklahoma and used by MF to buy the real property from EUGENE STIPE.”
“The Indictment further alleges that the defendants conspired to use intimidation on Michael D. Mass, to corruptly persuade Mass from testifying before a Federal Grand Jury investigation and subsequent trial, by purchasing the mortgage of his residence from a financial institution. The Indictment alleges that on February 14, 2007, FRANCIS STIPE bought the mortgage on Mass’ residence from a financial institution, which mortgage had been guaranteed by EUGENE STIPE. Mass is a former legislator who was in a position to allocate funds to state agencies including the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture and to Councils of Government, including the Kiamichi Economic Development District of Oklahoma. Mass was also in a position to steer the funds from the state agencies and Councils of Government to the McAlester Foundation.”
“Count I is punishable by a term of imprisonment not to exceed five (5) years, and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.”
“Count II of the Indictment alleges that both defendants knowingly and intentionally devised a scheme and artifice to defraud another of the intangible right of honest services, by steering funds appropriated by the Legislature of the State of Oklahoma to the McAlester Foundation (MF). EUGENE STIPE, and others, had a financial interest in NPP, secretly, and therefore was a false and fraudulent pretense employed in the scheme. The Indictment further states that the funds steered to MF by Legislator Mass deprived others of Mass’ honest services. The payment of the funds was kept secret from the public and was, therefore, a false and fraudulent pretense employed in the scheme. The indictment further alleges that EUGENE STIPE and FRANCIS STIPE did each recoup their $50,000.00. The undisclosed repayment of the loan with funds appropriated by the Legislature of the State of Oklahoma through the sale of the property to the MF was another false and fraudulent pretence employed in the scheme. Three checks were sent through and delivered by the United States Postal Service for an amount totaling approximately $1,900,000.00. The checks were from the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture in Oklahoma City addressed to the Kiamichi Economic Development District of Oklahoma in Wilburton,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Count II is punishable by a term of imprisonment not to exceed twenty (20) years and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.”
“Count III of the Indictment alleges that EUGENE STIPE and FRANCIS STIPE attempted to use intimidation on Michael D. Mass, and did so, by purchasing Mass’ residential mortgage from a financial institution for the purposes of delaying or preventing his testimony before a Federal Grand Jury investigation and subsequent trial in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.”
“Count III is punishable by a term of imprisonment not to exceed ten (10) years and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.”
“Count IV of the Indictment alleges that EUGENE STIPE and FRANCIS STIPE engaged in a monetary transaction through and to a financial institution, affecting interstate commerce, in criminally derived property of a value greater than $10,000.00. Specifically, they exchanged a check payable to Michael D. Mass in the amount of $48,000.00 as a kickback for steering funds from the Legislature of the State of Oklahoma.”
“Count IV is punishable by a term of imprisonment not to exceed ten (10) years and a fine of not more than $250,000.00.”
“First Assistant United States Attorney Robert Gay Guthrie and Assistant United States Attorney Ryan M. Roberts represented the government.”
U.S. Attorney Sperling concluded by noting, “A Grand Jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. A Grand Jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant. The defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.
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FOR RELEASE: October 09, 2007
SUBJECT: LOOPER, Ashley Nicholle
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that ASHLEY NICHOLLE LOOPER, age 21, of Muldrow, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Conspiracy, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 371.
“LOOPER was one of 14 co-defendants indicted in July, 2007. Charges arose from an investigation by United States Secret Service,” commented U.S. Attorney Sperling. “LOOPER conspired with the co-defendants, who in January 2007, passed counterfeit checks at federally insured banks in Oklahoma and Missouri. The checks were made using actual checking account numbers from personal checks which were stolen from mailboxes.”
“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 in the custody of the United States Marshal Service.”
“The statutory range of punishment is up to five years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000 in fines,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 10, 2007
SUBJECT: LANGSTON, Clinton Everett
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CLINTON EVERETT LANGSTON, age 21, of Madill, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Receiving a Visual Depiction of a Minor Engaging in Sexually Explicit Conduct and Possession of Visual Depiction of a Minor Engaging in Sexually Explicit Conduct.
“LANGSTON was sentenced to 121 months imprisonment, 60 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $200.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“LANGSTON was indicted by a federal grand jury in April 2007. Charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling. “From August 2006 to October 2006, LANGSTON received and possessed still photographs and videos which he downloaded from the internet of children under the age of 18 engaging in sexually explicit conduct. LANGSTON also agreed to forfeit the computer equipment he used to receive and possess the pornographic images.”
“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 or her sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 10, 2007
SUBJECT: OPERATION SIXKILLER ROUND-UP
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, District Attorney Larry Moore of District 15 D.A.’s Office, District Attorney Tom Giulioli of District 25 D.A. Drug Task Force, Dallas Field Division Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge James L. Capra, David O’Meilia, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Oklahoma, Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation Director A. DeWade Langley, and United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Oklahoma John W. Loyd, are pleased to announce the arrest of approximately 90 people on drug related charges in East Central Oklahoma. “Seventeen (17) defendants will be prosecuted federally in the northern and eastern districts of Oklahoma,” U. S. Attorney Sperling noted. “The remaining defendants will be prosecuted in state courts in the Eastern District of Oklahoma. Charges filed include possession with intent to distribute controlled substances.
On November 27, 2006, U.S. Attorney Sperling requested a Drug Enforcement Administration’s Mobile Enforcement Team (MET) deployment to target the suppliers of methamphetamine, cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana in and around the Creek Indian Gaming Facilities and Indian lands located in Muskogee, McIntosh, and Okmulgee Counties in east central Oklahoma. The deployment to Muskogee commenced on February 1, 2007.
The federal targets represent the leaders of an organization planted here in east central Oklahoma by a street gang in Muskogee known as the “107 Hoover Crips.” The “Crips” and the “Bloods” in Okmulgee County were also targets of this investigation. These gangs are extremely dangerous and violent organizations that have been linked to numerous homicides in the region.
Agencies assisting in the investigation and round-up with DEA’s Dallas MET of the Dallas Field Division were the District 25 District Attorney’s Drug Task Force, District 15 District Attorney’s Office, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (BATFE), Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), United States Marshal Service (USMS), Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation (OSBI), Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics (OBN), Oklahoma Highway Patrol (OHP), Muskogee County Sheriff’s Office, Muskogee Police Department, Okmulgee County Sheriff’s Office, Okmulgee Police Department, Tulsa County Sheriff’s Office, Tulsa Police Department, Owasso Police Department, Sapulpa Police Department, Henryetta Police Department, and the Broken Arrow Police Department. These Law Enforcement Officers conducted surveillance, made undercover drug purchases, executed search and arrest warrants and used other investigative techniques to gather the evidence needed for indictment and prosecution.
"This successful investigation would not have been possible without the team attitude displayed by all of the local, state, and federal police agencies. Both state and federal prosecutors were very supportive of the planned operation and have been involved in the decision-making process from the start,” noted U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Approximately ninety (90) defendants have been charged, and others are expected to be charged, as a direct result of this investigation. Many of those charged were arrested early this morning in and around Muskogee, Okmulgee, and Tulsa, Oklahoma. Nine were already in custody on charges that were filed earlier, or were in various jails on other charges.”
“Over 725 grams of methamphetamine, 345.2 grams of Cocaine powder, 500 grams of Crack Cocaine, 255 grams of Marijuana, 2.6 grams ecstasy tablets, 8.8 grams xanax tablets, and 10.9 grams hydrocodone tablets have been seized during this investigation. Six weapons were also seized or purchased during this deployment,” reported U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Mobile Enforcement Team (MET) deploys upon request from local communities to partner with local agencies to bring federal, state and local resources together to address significant drug trafficking areas and to dismantle drug trafficking organizations. The DEA established the MET initiative in 1995 to assist local agencies that may not have the staff, money, and prosecution strength necessary to stop sophisticated narcotics operations. By working with these agencies to target organizations causing drug related violence and arrest key individuals for methamphetamine trafficking, MET has helped reduce violence in hundreds of communities across America.”
“Operation Sixkiller combines the Eastern District’s Project Safe Neighborhoods and Anti-Gang initiatives and Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) program to target our most serious drug and gun offenders for federal prosecution,” U.S Attorney Sheldon Sperling further observed. “We simultaneously brought local, state, and federal authorities to bear upon dangerous street criminals. Today, through this coordinated effort, approximately 90 drug dealers are subject to arrest for state and federal prosecution. After nearly 8 months of intense, cooperative, undercover activity, this operation stands as an example of what can be accomplished when agents at all levels of government work together for the good of their communities.”
Larry Moore, District Attorney for District 15, Muskogee County, commented, “I am pleased to have supported this effort to remove these dangerous drug dealers from our county. Our new commitment to partner with other state and federal agencies to target offenders has borne fruit in this effort. It is something you can expect from this D.A.’s office in the future.”
“This initiative, led by the DEA, exemplifies the ability of federal, state, and local agencies to combine resources to address the insidious problem of dangerous drugs and the myriad of related problems caused by drug trafficking,” stated United States Attorney David O’Meilia, Northern District of Oklahoma.
“OSBI is proud to have contributed in the investigation and arrests of those suspects involved in Operation Sixkiller. This operation serves as an example of how law enforcement works together to stamp out crime in Oklahoma,” OSBI Director DeWade Langley said.
“This operation highlights our combined commitment to bring to justice those violent criminal drug trafficking organizations that have plagued this region of Oklahoma,” said James L. Capra, Special Agent in Charge of the Dallas Field Division of the Drug Enforcement Administration. “This is a reminder that the cities, towns, and streets of Oklahoma do not belong to drug traffickers and we will continue to enforce the rule of law to make Oklahoma communities safer.”
John W. Loyd, United States Marshal for the Eastern District of Oklahoma stated, “We are committed to apprehending violent offenders and we welcome the opportunity to assist the Muskogee Police Department, DEA, and the other agencies. This is a very worthy endeavor which I believe will have a noticeable and positive impact on our community, and a significant negative impact on the criminal element. As a result, the United States Marshal’s office in Eastern Oklahoma has eagerly thrown its total support into Operation Sixkiller.”
“Under the law, all defendants are presumed innocent of all charges until their guilt is proved beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law,” stated U. S. Attorney Sperling.
Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace, Eastern District of Oklahoma, in Muskogee, led the ground operations, coordinating and directing the day-to-day operations of the participating law enforcement agencies. Assistant United States Attorney Allen Litchfield represents the government in the Northern District of Oklahoma.
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FOR RELEASE: October 11, 2007
SUBJECT: DAWSON, Curry Adoyle
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that CURRY ADOYLE DAWSON, age 36, of Spencer, Oklahoma, was sentenced for possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
“DAWSON was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment, 36 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“Charges arose from a year-long investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Ft. Smith Police Department Narcotics Division. Agents made purchases of narcotics in Sebastian County, Arkansas, and Sequoyah County, Oklahoma. The defendant was convicted of using a firearm to promote the narcotics distribution business,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Last summer, an experienced Sequoyah County Deputy Sheriff and a savvy Oklahoma Highway Patrolman collected investigative information,” noted U.S. Attorney Sperling. “They obtained a search warrant in Fort Smith and seized nearly an ounce of pure methamphetamine, several guns, and $2,000.00. Investigators moved the case up the ladder."
“Two months later, a Sequoyah County District Court search warrant netted five rifles, four pistols, methamphetamine, marijuana and various pharmaceuticals. Three of the guns had been stolen in Fort Smith six weeks earlier.”
“Three days later, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service made a controlled buy of $6,000.00 worth of methamphetamine – three ounces. A series of transactions and a few weeks later, the plot thickened.”
“The theft of four pounds of methamphetamine and cohort retribution followed. The suspected thief’s home was entered by DAWSON and co-conspirator Joseph Alondo McAdams. He was reportedly interrogated at gunpoint. The suspect was hit with a gun and a mag light, taken outside, stripped naked, handcuffed, duct-taped and left for dead. His house was ransacked and searched.”
“Law enforcement officers worked the Arkansas scene as if a homicide had occurred. The victim survived. An undercover ATF special agent bought three ounces of pure methamphetamine from McAdams, who then owned Freshstart Seafood Restaurant in Oklahoma City.
“A cooperating witness had stolen $40,000.00 from McAdams’ car. Continuing investigation led to large methamphetamine seizures in the Oklahoma City area – a kilo of pure methamphetamine, several thousand dollars and five guns.”
“Melissa Reese was sentenced to 82 months imprisonment on September 13, 2007, Brandie Price was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment on September 6, 2007, and Leslie Bernard Johnson was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment on September 6, 2007. McAdams is awaiting sentencing,” 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. Marshal to begin serving his sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 11, 2007
SUBJECT: JOHNSON, Glenda Darlene
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that GLENDA DARLENE JOHNSON, age 51, of Eufaula, Oklahoma, was sentenced for theft, embezzlement or misapplication by a bank employee .
“JOHNSON was sentenced to 33 months imprisonment, 36 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00. The defendant was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $348,881.40,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The embezzlement scheme included 149 separate transactions from June 11, 1997 to December 8, 2006,” U.S. Attorney Sperling noted. “The total embezzlement loss was over $335,000.00.”
“The Bank of Eufaula has served area citizens for over 97 years,” U.S. Attorney Sperling continued. “The Bank has survived depression, oil financial challenges, and other state and national financial challenges. All affected customer accounts have been corrected and restored.”
“A detailed bank audit confirmed the series of thefts, from which the defendant personally benefitted. She removed monies from CDs and savings accounts, withdrew monies from IRAs, drew cashier’s checks from customer accounts, fraudulently issued false interest statements to customers, debited customer checking accounts, and manipulated customer account records. She spent the money on home furnishings, wedding photographs, a relative’s house down payment, a relatives’ honeymoon, and a pickup. She embezzled from certain accounts to replace money she stole from other accounts. Over a two to three year period of time, as a joint account owner, she even embezzled approximately $15,000.00 from her parents’ CDs and $1,000.00 from their savings account.”
“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 will report on November 9, 2007 to begin serving her sentence. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 11, 2007
SUBJECT: WARLEDO, Lucas
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that LUCAS WARLEDO, age 26, of Seminole County, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Embezzlement of Government Funds.
“WARLEDO was sentenced to five (5) years probation and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00. The defendant was ordered to pay restitution of approximately $31,875.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The charges arose from an investigation by the Social Security Administration’s Office of the Inspector General and Office of Intelligence. WARLEDO obtained Social Security Income benefits to which he was not entitled, by falsely claiming to be disabled, in the approximate amount of $31,875.00. The offenses took place from October 2000 to March 2006.”
“The Honorable Ronald A. White, District Judge in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, presided over today’s sentencing. Assistant United States Attorney Paul G. Hess represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 16, 2007
SUBJECT: GILBERT, Darrin Ted
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that DARRIN TED GILBERT, age 38, of Sulphur, Oklahoma, plead guilty to Production of Child Pornography, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2251(a).
“The charge arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Sulphur Police Department. The defendant used a minor child to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing a visual depiction of such conduct, using materials that were mailed, shipped or transported in interstate commerce. The offense took place during a period between December 1, 2006 and May 1, 2007 in Murray County,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“GILBERT photographed his nine year old former step-daughter in various sexually explicit poses. The child was completely nude and GILBERT had the child display her genital area for the photographs. GILBERT was indicted in federal court for production of child pornography as part of the United States Department of Justice Project Safe Childhood initiative to crack down on those who exploit and victimize children by means of the internet or other electronic media. GILBERT admitted he used a digital camera which had been manufactured outside the State of Oklahoma to produce the pornographic images,” explained U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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 in the custody of the United States Marshal Service.”
“The statutory range of punishment is not less than 15 years nor more than 30 years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000.00 in fines,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“As a parent I would hope that most people would, as a matter of basic decency, not so despicably offend little children,” U.S. Attorney Sperling noted. “As a prosecutor, I hope the serious punishment – a long nonparolable prison term – would give some pause even to those so depraved.”
“Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 16, 2007
SUBJECT: WRIGHT, James Brian
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JAMES BRIAN WRIGHT, age 30, of Sallisaw, Oklahoma, pled guilty to two counts of Felon in Possession of Firearm, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 922(g).
“Charges arose from an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives and the Sallisaw Police Department. In February 2007, law enforcement officials went to WRIGHT’s residence in Sallisaw to execute an outstanding arrest warrant from the State of Arkansas. Agents searched the residence and found a .22 caliber pistol under the mattress in the master bedroom. While agents were at the house, WRIGHT drove up in a pickup and agents found a .38 caliber pistol under the seat of the pickup. WRIGHT admitted possessing both weapons,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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 is in the custody of the United States Marshal Service.”
“The statutory range of punishment is up to ten years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000.00 in fines for each count of Felon in Possession of Firearm. However, due to WRIGHT’s criminal history, he may be considered an “armed career criminal,” which increases the punishment to imprisonment of not less than 15 nonparolable years,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling. “A determination of the appropriate punishment will be made at the formal sentencing hearing.”
“Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 17, 2007
SUBJECT: ROGERS, Carroll Wayne
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that CARROLL WAYNE ROGERS, age 54, of Spiro, Oklahoma, was arrested on five counts of Mail Fraud, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. §§ 1341 and 2.
“At an arraignment this morning the defendant was advised of his rights, represented by appointed counsel and plead not guilty. He was given ten days to file pretrial motions. Trial was set for December 3, 2007.”
“The charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. ROGERS is an elected official and serves as the District Number One County Commissioner and also as Chairman of the County Board of Commissioners for LeFlore County,” U.S. Attorney Sperling reported. “The indictment alleges that, beginning in or about May 1, 2002, and continuing through to on or about August 31, 2006, ROGERS, and others devised and intended to devise a scheme and artifice to defraud Markel American Insurance Company and Farmers Insurance Group, by means of false and fraudulent statements and insurance claims to obtain money from the insurance companies,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The alleged scheme involved ROGERS’ purchase of three houses, directly or indirectly, over a period of months. The grand jury indictment contends that the defendant caused insurance to be obtained on the properties for far more than the purchase price. After the insurance was in place, the defendant is alleged to have caused the houses to be destroyed by fire. Inflated insurance claims were then submitted to the insurance company. When the claims were paid, ROGERS pocketed the money. In addition, in one instance, the indictment charges, ROGERS made a $5,000.00 claim for damage to a mobile home trailer located on his property, when in reality the trailer was a derelict hull with little, if any, value,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“ROGERS also made a claim for hail damage to the roof of his house. Although the insurance claim was paid, ROGERS did not use the money to repair the roof. Rather, four years later ROGERS made another claim for the same damage, asserting that the roof had again been damaged by hail,” U.S. Attorney Sperling reported.
“The statutory range of punishment is up to 20 years imprisonment and/or fines in the amount of up to twice the amount of the loss to the insurance companies, with three years supervised release,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling. “Advisory sentencing guidelines must ultimately be considered with regard to punishment upon convictions. Federal prison sentences are not subject to parole.”
“At the conclusion of the arraignment ROGERS was released on a $20,000.00 unsecured bond and ordered to be subject to home confinement and electronic monitoring.
“An Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt. Under the law, the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until his guilt is established beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.”
“Assistant United States Attorney William Clabault represents the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 18, 2007
SUBJECT: KEITH, David Tobe
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that DAVID TOBE KEITH, age 35, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Possession of Visual Depiction of a Minor Engaging in Sexually Explicit Conduct .
“KEITH was sentenced to 120 months imprisonment, 10 years supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The offense took place on April 20, 2006. Charges arose from an investigation by the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“In January, 2006 the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation received a cybertip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that a computer user in Muskogee, Oklahoma, had uploaded child pornography onto the Internet. Agents went to KEITH’s home in Muskogee and obtained permission to search KEITH’s computer. Computer forensic specialists discovered 12 video files and 175 still images on KEITH’s computer of minor children engaged in sexually explicit conduct,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Ironically, at the time the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation was conducting this investigation in Oklahoma, the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Tennessee was investigating KEITH for sexual enticement of a minor child over the Internet. KEITH was communicating via the internet with a person whom he believed was a minor child. In reality, he was chatting online with an undercover agent with the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Memphis,” U.S. Attorney Sperling continued.
“Ultimately, KEITH was arrested in Memphis after having traveled there for the purpose of having sex with a minor. KEITH was sentenced in the Western District of Tennessee pursuant to Rule 20 of the Federal Rules of Criminal Procedure. Although the criminal information charging Possession of a Visual Depiction of a Minor Engaging in Sexually Explicit Conduct was filed in the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the Western District of Tennessee handled the disposition along with federal charges stemming from the sexual enticement arrest.” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Frankly, I don’t know that federal law can be harsh enough for criminals who offend little children,” U.S. Attorney concluded. “Even those who obtain child pornography are subject to strict federal prison terms. If you are so disposed, I can’t say this plainly enough – DON’T!”
“Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the Eastern District of Oklahoma in this case and Assistant United States Attorney Dan L. Newsom represented the Western District of Tennessee.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 18, 2007
SUBJECT: MCADAMS, Joseph Alondo
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that JOSEPH ALONDO McADAMS, age 45, of Oklahoma City, was sentenced on three counts charging him with possession of, in excess of 50 grams, of actual methamphetamine, with intent to distribute the substance, and one count of criminal forfeiture.
“McADAMS was sentenced to151 months imprisonment, 48 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $300.00. The defendant will forfeit the 2001 BMW vehicle from which he delivered methamphetamine,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“Charges arose from a year-long investigation by the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service, the Oklahoma Highway Patrol, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Ft. Smith Police Department Narcotics Division. Agents made purchases of narcotics in Sebastian County, Arkansas, and Sequoyah County, Oklahoma,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Last summer, an experienced Sequoyah County Deputy Sheriff and a savvy Oklahoma Highway Patrolman collected investigative information,” noted U.S. Attorney Sperling. “They obtained a search warrant in Fort Smith and seized nearly an ounce of pure methamphetamine, several guns, and $2,000.00. Investigators moved the case up the ladder.”
“Two months later, a Sequoyah County District Court search warrant netted five rifles, four pistols, methamphetamine, marijuana and various pharmaceuticals. Three of the guns had been stolen in Fort Smith six weeks earlier.”
“Three days later, the Cherokee Nation Marshal Service made a controlled buy of $6,000.00 worth of methamphetamine – three ounces. A series of transactions and a few weeks later, the plot thickened.”
“The theft of four pounds of methamphetamine and cohort retribution followed. The suspected thief’s home was entered by McADAMS and co-conspirator Curry Adoyle Dawson. He was reportedly interrogated at gunpoint. The suspect was hit with a gun and a mag light, taken outside, stripped naked, handcuffed, duct-taped and left for dead. His house was ransacked and searched.”
“Law enforcement officers worked the Arkansas scene as if a homicide had occurred. The victim survived. An undercover ATF special agent bought three ounces of pure methamphetamine from McAdams, who then owned Freshstart Seafood Restaurant in Oklahoma City.
“A cooperating witness had stolen $40,000.00 from McAdams’ car. Continuing investigation led to large methamphetamine seizures in the Oklahoma City area – a kilo of pure methamphetamine, several thousand dollars and five guns.”
“Melissa Reese was sentenced to 82 months imprisonment on September 13, 2007, Brandie Price was sentenced to 60 months imprisonment on September 6, 2007, Leslie Bernard Johnson was sentenced to 70 months imprisonment on September 6, 2007 and Curry Adoyle Dawson was sentenced to 84 months imprisonment on October 11, 2007,” 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. Marshal to begin serving his sentence.”
“Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 19, 2007
SUBJECT: FEDERAL PROSECUTOR'S OFFICE PERSONNEL CHANGES
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced two major personnel changes in his office. “In both respects,” U.S. Attorney noted, “I feel like we hit the jackpot! As of October 29, Doug Horn will begin serving as our First Assistant U.S. Attorney and Criminal Chief. Robert Gay Guthrie will begin serving as our Coordinator of White Collar and Public Corruption Prosecution,” announced U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Guthrie – Coordinator, White Collar Crime and Public Corruption”
“Robert Gay Guthrie will undertake the position of Coordinator – White Collar Crime and Public Corruption. Douglas Adam Horn will be my First Assistant U.S. Attorney and Criminal Chief. This is a huge win/win for me -- and for the US Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma.”
“The analogy is not perfect, but I feel like Joe Torre when the Yankees had an opportunity to pick up Alex Rodriguez. He didn’t dump a star leader and team player, Derek Jeter, who continues to play an integral role on the team.”
“Similarly here, Gay Guthrie is a prosecutorial treasure,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling. “He was a Division I football player, graduated from Duke, and earned his law degree from Denver U in 1974. He was a deputy district attorney in Denver and Golden for nearly eight years and an Assistant U.S. Attorney for 18 years in Colorado. He served as the First Assistant U.S. Attorney for six of those years. He has also been in private practice for several years. He is a former national rugby champion with the Denver Barbarians.”
“Gay has served in this district as the First Assistant and Criminal Chief for over five years,” continued U.S. Attorney Sperling. “He served as lead counsel in the trial of former Latimer County Sheriff Melvin Holly. He has led a series of integral white collar and public corruption and white collar investigations and prosecutions. One of the more notable was the jury trial and conviction of former McAlester City Manager, Randy Green.”
“Gay has graciously consented to serve this office and the Department of Justice as our Coordinator of White Collar and Public Corruption cases. He brings a wealth of experience and seasoned judgment to that role. He will be permitted to focus on a series of matters that warrant his primary attention,” noted U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Horn – First Assistant U.S. Attorney and Criminal Chief “
“I know Doug Horn very well,” commented U.S. Attorney Sperling. “As the first Assistant and Criminal Chief, I had the pleasure of supervising and working with Doug from1995-98.”
“Doug graduated with a B.S. in Civil Engineering from the University of Virginia in 1979. He received an MBA from the University of Pittsburgh in 1980. He received his Juris Doctorate from the University of Tulsa in 1988. He worked for Amerada Hess Corporation, then the tenth largest integrated oil and gas company in the United States, from 1980-1989. He quickly rose through the ranks -- as a Financial Analyst, a Supervisor of Marketing Financial Controls, a Manager of Marketing Financial Planning and Control, an Assistant to the Senior Vice President for U.S. Exploration and Production, a Technical Services Project Manager, and a Joint Venture Operations Supervisor.”
“Given the opportunity to transfer to Williston, ND, Midland TX or NYC, Doug took a huge cut in salary to stay in Tulsa. With the DA’s office, from 1989-1995, he served as a Traffic Division Assistant DA, a General Felony ADA, Director of the Tulsa County Multi-jurisdictional Drug Task Force, Felony Team Captain, and First Assistant District Attorney.”
“We recruited Doug to work here, for the next three and one-half years, as an AUSA,” reflected U.S. Attorney Sperling. “We remember him as a prolific AUSA who tackled some of the most difficult cases, to include the trials of a Veterans Administration doctor and bombing conspirators Lampley and others. He is, quite simply, a prosecutorial star.”
“In 1998, in the wake of family demands, Doug transferred to the Northern District of Oklahoma as an AUSA and was promoted to the position of Criminal Chief where he now continues to serve.”
“As I think of these moves, I may have a small sense as to how the Yankees’ GM may have felt when Alex Rodriguez became available. The GM brought A-Rod aboard, but was still fortunate to retain the services of Derek Jeter, a consummate professional, who prepares exhaustively and plays hard every day, whether the opponent is the Red Sox or the Royals. He makes big plays and small plays, just as we are called to handle big cases and small.”
“In the past few years, our office has successfully handled two high profile capital murder trials. We have successfully prosecuted child sexual predators. We have obtained the convictions of corrupt public officials, violent criminals, drug distributors, white collar criminals, and Indian country violators.”
“Beginning in 2000-2001, we successfully targeted, investigated, and incapacitated the most dangerous violent criminal offenders in an Adair County initiative. We used that highly productive task force approach in conjunction with federal, state, county, tribal, and local prosecutors and officers. Over the period of four years, we used limited resources to launch a number of very successful multi-county operations. Top 3/Dirty Thirty was a Project Safe Neighborhoods effort to identify and neutralize the most dangerous criminals in our area. Each DA’s district was asked to maintain a revolving list of three dangerous offenders. DAs, ADAs, Sheriffs, and Police Chiefs in our area worked together with OSBI, OBN, and other state agents and our federal sister and brother law enforcement agents to remove these lawbreakers from the streets,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Hell on the Border on the Oklahoma-Arkansas boundary area, 700Ranch on the Oklahoma-Texas border, and the most recent Operation Sixkiller in the Muskogee and Okmulgee areas were highly successful projects. Our local, county, tribal, state and federal partners successfully arrested, prosecuted and imprisoned hundreds of drug and firearm criminals.”
“Meanwhile, our Civil Division has continued to defend the U.S. Treasury. Complex medical malpractice defenses and a host of other case contexts have been the subject of repeated and dramatic litigative achievements.”
“Doug and Gay are responsible for much of our success. I am elated that they will continue to serve the citizens of this district with the professionalism and skill that they have demonstrated in the past,” remarked U.S. Attorney Sperling.
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FOR RELEASE: October 24, 2007
SUBJECT: DIXON, Maurice Obie
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that MAURICE OBIE DIXON, age 46, of Lancaster, Texas, pled guilty to Possession of Fifteen or More Counterfeit Access Devices, in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 1029(a)(3) and Title 18, United States Code, Section 2.
“Charges arose from an investigation by United States Secret Service. The offense took place on August 24, 2007,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“U.S. Secret Service agents in Dallas, Texas, were conducting an investigation into the use of counterfeit credit cards in the Dallas area. As part of that investigation, agents were attempting to locate Djuan Jahmar Orr and discovered he was staying in a room at the Day’s Inn in Ardmore, Oklahoma. Agents also determined the room had been rented using a counterfeit American Express card. Agents located Orr in the parking lot and placed him under arrest. Agents went to the room and located DIXON. Inside the room, agents also discovered 22 counterfeit credit cards,” 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 in the custody of the United States Marshal Service,” continued U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The statutory range of punishment is up to ten years imprisonment and/or up to $250,000.00 in fines,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.“Assistant United States Attorney Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 25, 2007
SUBJECT: BARNETT, Keith L.
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that that KEITH L. BARNETT, age 44, of Ft. Smith, Arkansas, was sentenced for Uttering Counterfeit Securities with Intent to Deceive.
“BARNETT was sentenced to 16 months imprisonment, 36 months supervised release, and ordered to pay a Special Assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“Charges arose from an investigation by United States Secret Service. On August 22, 2007, BARNETT plead guilty to uttering counterfeit securities with the intent to deceive,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“BARNETT was one of 14 co-defendants indicted in July, 2007. In October and November, 2006 BARNETT passed counterfeit checks at federally insured banks in Arkansas and Oklahoma. The checks were made by another co-defendant using actual checking account numbers from personal checks which were stolen from mailboxes,” U.S. Attorney Sperling continued.
“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: October 25, 2007
SUBJECT: EPPERSON, Haden Ryan
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced that HADEN RYAN EPPERSON, age 28, of Muskogee, Oklahoma, was sentenced for Possession of Visual Depictions of Minors Engaging in Sexually Explicit Conduct, a violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 2252(a).
“EPPERSON was sentenced to 78 months of imprisonment with an additional 60 months of supervised release to follow the prison term. EPPERSON was ordered to forfeit possession of his computers and other of personal property he used to obtain and possess the pornographic images. EPPERSON was also ordered to pay a special assessment of $100.00,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“EPPERSON had previously pled guilty on June 5, 2007. Charges arose from an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. In May 2006, a federal search warrant was executed at EPPERSON’s home in Muskogee. Agents seized two computers and numerous computer disks. A forensic examination of the computers revealed that EPPERSON was in possession of over 600 images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct which he had received over the Internet,” 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 Christopher J. Wilson represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 25, 2007
SUBJECT: WATKINS, Elvin Clifford
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that ELVIN CLIFFORD WATKINS, age 48, of Chambersburg, Pennsylvania, pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, in violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841(a)(1) and 841(b)(1)(C).
“Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Oklahoma Highway Patrol. The offense took place on August 13, 2007, in Sequoyah County. WATKINS possessed in excess of 60 kilograms of marijuana with the intent to distribute,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“An Oklahoma Highway Patrol Trooper stopped WATKINS for following too closely in Sequoyah County, Oklahoma. A subsequent search of the 2007 Dodge Charger being driven by WATKINS, yielded approximately 170 pounds of marijuana. WATKINS admitted he was taking the marijuana to Pennsylvania for delivery,” U.S. Attorney Sperling commented.
“The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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 is in the custody of the United States Marshal Service.”
“The statutory range of punishment is up to 20 years imprisonment, up to $1,000,000.00 in fines or both,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace represented the government.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 26, 2007
SUBJECT: RICE, Jack
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JACK RICE, age 62, of Pittsburg, Oklahoma, pled guilty to conspiracy to travel in interstate commerce to carry on unlawful activities, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. Section 371 and Title 18 United States Code Section 1952(a)(3).
“Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the McAlester Police Department and the Internal Revenue Service. On October 25, 2007, a one count felony information was filed charging RICE with conspiring with others to travel in interstate commerce to carry on the unlawful activities of possessing and distributing methamphetamine, in excess of 500 grams,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The charging document, to which the defendant pled guilty, alleged that from about 1995 and continuing to July 19, 2007, RICE possessed methamphetamine for the intended purpose of distribution. It was part of the conspiracy that RICE provided money for the purchase of methamphetamine. As further part of the conspiracy RICE used his telephone to facilitate the manufacture and distribution of the methamphetamine,” continued 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 is in the custody of the United States Marshal Service, pending sentencing”
“The statutory range of punishment is up to five 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: October 26, 2007
SUBJECT: SHELTON, James
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that JAMES SHELTON, age 45, of Claremore, Oklahoma, pled guilty to conspiracy to possess methamphetamine, in excess of 500 grams, with intent to distribute, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. Section 371 and Title 21 United States Code Section 841(a)(1).
“Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the McAlester Police Department and the Internal Revenue Service. On October 25, 2007, a one count felony information was filed charging SHELTON with conspiring with others to use a facility in interstate commerce to possess and distribute methamphetamine,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling.
“The charging document, to which defendant pled guilty, alleged that from about 1995 and continuing to July 19, 2007, SHELTON would acquire pseudoephedrine and participated in the manufacture of methamphetamine. As further part of the conspiracy SHELTON used his telephone to facilitate the manufacture and distribution of the methamphetamine, “continued 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 is in the custody of the United States Marshal Service, pending sentencing.”
“The statutory range of punishment is up to five 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: October 29, 2007
SUBJECT: POWDRILL, Shamarcus
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that SHAMARCUS POWDRILL, age 19, of Okmulgee, Oklahoma, pled guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute and Distribution of Cocaine Base aka Crack Cocaine, in violation of Title 21 U.S.C. Sections 841(a)(1) & (b)(1)(B).
“Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration. On April 10, 2007, POWDRILL sold crack cocaine in a controlled setting. As a result of the controlled buy, a one count felony information was filed charging POWDRILL with possessing and distributing crack cocaine in excess of five grams,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“The Honorable Kimberly E. West, 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 in the custody of the United States Marshal Service pending sentencing.”
“The statutory range of punishment is not less than five nor more than 40 years imprisonment and/or up to $2,000,000.00 in fines,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“This prosecution is just one of over 90 arrest warrants issued in Operation Sixkiller,” reported U.S. Attorney Sperling. “The task force effort joined 22 local, county, state and federal prosecution and investigative agencies. District 25 Attorney Tom Giulioli and District 15 Attorney Larry Moore are leading the state prosecutions. Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace is the primary federal prosecutor here.”
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FOR RELEASE: October 30, 2007
SUBJECT: FRY, Brian
MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA - Sheldon J. Sperling, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Oklahoma, announced today that BRIAN FRY, age 25, of McAlester, Oklahoma, pled guilty to money laundering conspiracy, in violation of Title 18 U.S.C. Sections 1956(h) and 1956(a)(1)(B).
“Charges arose from an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics, the McAlester Police Department and the Internal Revenue Service. A one-count felony information was filed today charging FRY with conspiring with others to launder money,” stated U.S. Attorney Sheldon J. Sperling. “The defendant waived indictment and pled guilty.”
“The charging document, to which the defendant pled guilty, alleged that from about 1995 and continuing to July 19, 2007, FRY and others engaged in financial transactions in criminally derived property to further drug business and conceal the true source of assets. FRY and others used a portion of money derived from the sale of methamphetamine to purchase additional methamphetamine. Additionally, they invested a portion of the proceeds of their illegal drug sales in assets in such a manner to obscure and hide the true source of the money. As part of the conspiracy they purchased assets using currency in such an amount, quantity and form so that the true source of the funds used to purchase the assets were hidden from law enforcement. It was further part of the conspiracy that they titled purchased assets in the names of nominee owners to avoid potential exposure to forfeiture provisions of drug and money laundering statutes in an effort to preserve their ill gotten gains,” continued 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 is in the custody of the United States Marshal Service, pending sentencing.”
“The statutory range of punishment is up to 20 years imprisonment and/or fines totaling $500,000 or twice the value of the property involved with the transaction, whichever is greater,” stated U.S. Attorney Sperling.
“Assistant United States Attorney Dennis A. Fries represented the government.”
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