U.S. Attorney Todd Graves
Western District
Of
Missouri
2003 News Releases
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For more information, contact Don Ledford in the Public
Affairs Office:
U.S. Attorney's Office
400 East Ninth Street, Room 5510
Kansas City, MO 64106
(816) 426-4220
E-mail: don.ledford@usdoj.gov
December 31, 2003
Higginsville man pleads guilty witness tampering
charge
KANSAS CITY - A Higginsville, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to being a felon in possession of a firearm and to tampering
with a witness or informant. William Earl Cox, 49, of Higginsville, pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to a
federal indictment that was returned by the grand jury on July 22, 2003.
Read the News Release
December 31, 2003
KC felon charged with possession of firearm following
pursuit
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was charged today in federal
court with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Roy Thorton, 31,
of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a criminal complaint filed this morning
in U.S. District Court in Kansas City.
Read
the News Release
December 30, 2003
Springfield man sentenced for assault, possession
of cocaine
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for assaulting federal law enforcement officers and for possession
with intent to distribute crack cocaine.
Read
the News Release
December 30, 2003
Texas man sentenced for cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Brownsville, Texas, man was sentenced in federal
court today for participating in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine in
Missouri. Oscar Alberto Sanchez, 29, of Brownsville, Texas, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to 10 years in
federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
December 30, 2003
Columbia man pleads guilty to conspiracy to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Columbia, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine, ecstasy and powder
cocaine. Albert William Newsome, Jr., 20, of Columbia, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to conspiracy
to distribute crack cocaine, ecstasy and powder cocaine.
Read the News Release
December 30, 2003
Carthage man pleads guilty to illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Carthage, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.Victor D. Strickland,
43, of Carthage, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr this afternoon to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read the News Release
December 30, 2003
Columbia man pleads guilty to firearms, narcotics
charges
KANSAS CITY - A Columbia, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to violating federal firearms laws. Delarrence D. Cain, 23,
of Columbia, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K.
Laughrey this morning to being a felon in possession of a firearm and
to being in possession with intent to distribute at least five grams of
crack cocaine.
Read the News Release
December 29, 2003
KC man sentenced for receiving child porn
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for receiving child pornography. Patrick Arthur Jose, 37,
of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J.
Gaitan, Jr., this morning to three years and five months in federal prison
without parole.
Read the News Release
December 29, 2003
Missouri man pleads guilty to wire, bank fraud
KANSAS CITY - A Missouri man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to a wire fraud and bank fraud scheme in which he initiated romantic
relationships with 22 different women in order to steal more than $90,000
from 16 financial institutions. Ryan S. Blevins, 28, of Raytown, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this
morning to wire fraud and bank fraud.
Read the News Release
December 29, 2003
Sedalia man pleads guilty to illegal possession
of firearm
JEFFERSON CITY - A Sedalia, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition.
Justin L. Doyle, 24, of Sedalia, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to being a felon in possession
of a firearm and ammunition.
Read the News Release
December 23, 2003
Springfield man pleads guilty to child porn charges
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to illegal possession of child pornography. William Larry
McAnally, 59, of Springfield, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Court Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to possessing child pornography.
Read the News Release
December 23, 2003
Bookkeeper sentenced for forging checks totaling
$609,995
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City woman was sentenced in federal
court today for forging checks drawn on her employers' bank accounts and
other forms of embezzlement. Kathleen M. Hayes, 44, of Independence, Mo.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to two
years and three months in federal prison without parole. She also was
ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $609,995.71 to those employers
she defrauded.
Read the News Release
December 23, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The sentencing is
part of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Rahman A. Sallee, 27, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to five years and six months in federal
prison without parole.
Read the News Release
December 22, 2003
Fourth defendant sentenced in ecstasy conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD - A fourth defendant was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute ecstasy in a case that
resulted from Operation X-Posed, an investigation into ecstasy, cocaine
and methamphetamine trafficking in Greene County. Operation X-Posed was
a long-term, multi-agency investigation into the distribution of tens
of thousands of ecstasy tablets throughout southwest Missouri, as well
as the Kansas City and St. Louis areas. According to Graves, this was
the largest ecstasy ring ever prosecuted in southwest Missouri.
Read the News Release
December 22, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to firearms charge
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., felon pleaded guilty in federal
court today to violating a federal firearms law. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
James E. Waters, 23, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to being a felon in possession of a
firearm.
Read the News Release
December 22, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to distribution of crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to distributing crack cocaine after law enforcement officers found
crack and more than 650 grams of marijuana at his residence. Barry D.
Purnell, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., also known as "Bear", pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to distributing
crack cocaine in Jackson County, Mo.
Read the News Release
December 22, 2003
Aurora, Mo., felon pleads guilty to illegal possesion
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD - An Aurora, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to illegally possessing a firearm. Randy Kevin Carey, 35,
of Aurora, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr
this morning to illegally possessing a firearm.
Read the News Release
December 22, 2003
Monett, Mo., man pleads guilty to possessing child
porn
SPRINGFIELD - A Monett, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to illegal possession of child pornography. Gregory Parker
Kimball, 39, of Monett, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court
Judge Richard E. Dorr this afternoon.
Read the News Release
December 18, 2003
Joplin man sentenced for role in cocaine conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD - A Joplin, Mo., man was sentenced today for his
role in a conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine in southern
Missouri. The co-defendant is part of Operation Cocaine Cowboys, which
charged a total of 36 federal defendants with illegal drug trafficking
and firearms sales in southwest Missouri.
Read the News Release
December 18, 2003
Jamaican man sentenced for distributing cocaine
in KC
KANSAS CITY - A Jamaican man was sentenced in federal court
today for distributing cocaine in Kansas City, Mo. Antonio B. Adams, 21,
a citizen of Jamaica, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith
this morning to five years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
December 18, 2003
Texas man indicted for distributing cocaine in
Greene County
SPRINGFIELD - A Texas man was indicted by a federal grand jury
today for distributing five kilograms or more of cocaine in Greene County,
Mo. Erasmo Ibarra, Jr., 43, of Laredo, Texas, was charged in a single-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Today's indictment
alleges that Ibarra was in possession with intent to distribute five kilograms
or more of cocaine in Greene County on March 7, 2003.
Read the News Release
December 18, 2003
Restaurant operators indicted for harboring illegal
aliens
SPRINGFIELD - The operators of the Taste of China restaurant
in Springfield, Mo., were indicted by a federal grand jury today for harboring
illegal aliens. Sheng Chyuan Chen, also known as Tony Chen, 46, and Jeannette
Ly Chen, also known as Jeannette Ly, 47, were charged in a single-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield. Sheng Chyuan
Chen, a native of China, is president of LTCF, Inc., doing business as
Taste of China, 935 N. Glenstone, Springfield. Jeannette Ly Chen, a native
of Indochina, is the secretary of LTCF. The Chens are married and both
are naturalized citizens of the United States.
Read the News Release
December 18, 2003
Thayer man sentenced for illegal possession of
firearm
SPRINGFIELD - A Thayer, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Timothy Jacobs, 35,
of Thayer, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this
morning to six years and five months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
December 18, 2003
Californian pleads guilty to role in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A California man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to his role in conspiracy to distribute cocaine in Kansas City,
Mo. Cleveland Burgie, Jr., 32, of Oakland, Calif., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to his role
in a cocaine conspiracy.
Read the News Release
December 18, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The sentencing is
part of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Marcus T. Walker, 43, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to two years and six months
in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
Bank supervisor sentenced for bank embezzling
KANSAS CITY - A former bank supervisor was sentenced in federal
court today for embezzling more than $54,000 from Commerce Bank in Kansas
City, Mo. Pamela M. Cato, 45, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to two months in
federal prison without parole, followed by five years of supervised release,
including two months of home detention. The court also ordered Cato to
pay $27,535 in restitution.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
Shawnee Mission, Kan., man indicted for counterfeiting
$20 bills
KANSAS CITY - A Shawnee Mission, Kan., man was indicted by
a federal grand jury today for counterfeiting $20 bills, which he and
another person passed at local restaurants. Matthew D. Montgomery, 31,
of Shawnee Mission, was charged in a three-count indictment returned by
a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
Springfield attorney sentenced for defrauding insurance
company
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield, Mo., attorney was sentenced in
federal court today for defrauding several insurance companies by embezzling
more than $68,000 from worker's compensation clients. Steven Shanholtzer,
35, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr
this afternoon to five years of probation, including four months of home
detention and 250 hours of community service. The court also ordered Shanholtzer
to pay $69,573 in restitution.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
Neosho man indicted for extortion threat
SPRINGFIELD - A Neosho, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for making threats and extortion. Larry James Reynolds,
also known as Jamie Reynolds, 35, of Neosho, was charged in a two-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
8 defendants indicted for violating federal firearms
laws
SPRINGFIELD - Eight defendants, including several firearms
dealers, were indicted by a federal grand jury today, in three separate
and unrelated cases, for violating federal firearms laws.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
Third defendant sentenced in ecstasy conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD - A third defendant was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute ecstasy in a case that
resulted from Operation X-Posed, an investigation into ecstasy, cocaine
and methamphetamine trafficking in Greene County. Operation X-Posed was
a long-term, multi-agency investigation into the distribution of tens
of thousands of ecstasy tablets throughout southwest Missouri, as well
as the Kansas City and St. Louis areas. According to Graves, this was
the largest ecstasy ring ever prosecuted in southwest Missouri.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
Pleasant Hill man indicted for Social Security
fraud
KANSAS CITY - A Pleasant Hill, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for defrauding the Social Security Administration. Mark
Deperalta, 42, of Pleasant Hill, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury today in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
Defendant indicted for robbing Northland bank
KANSAS CITY - A defendant has been indicted for robbing Union
Bank, located in the Northland. Collin J. McDonald, 23, of Kansas City,
Mo., was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury today
in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
4 indicted for conpsiracy to manufacture meth
KANSAS CITY - Four co-defendants were indicted by a federal
grand jury today for conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Raymond
"Cory" Herndon, 32, of Wea, Kan., Cortney A. Longie, 22, of
Cleveland, Mo., John W. Dickinson, 41, of Cleveland, Mo., and James A.
Irvin, 43, of Westline, Mo., were all charged in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury today in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
December 17, 2003
11 charged with illegal possession of firearms,
ammunition
KANSAS CITY - Eleven defendants were indicted by a federal
grand jury today, in separate and unrelated cases, for illegally possessing
firearms and ammunition.
Read the News Release
December 16, 2003
Prosecutors announce cooperation across jurisdictional
lines
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, and Michael Sanders, Jackson County, Mo.,
Prosecutor, announced today a plan to continue cooperative efforts in
the Project Ceasefire program. Two Jackson County prosecutors have been
cross-designated to work in the United States Attorney's Office. Jackson
County assistant prosecutors Angela C. Hasty and Stephan Hughes will assist
in the United States Attorney's Office.
Read the News Release
December 16, 2003
Three sentenced for ecstasy conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Three men were sentenced in federal court today
in separate but related cases that resulted from Operation X-Posed, an
investigation into ecstasy, cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking in
Greene County.
Read the News Release
December 16, 2003
Two men indicted for possession, intent to distribute
crack
KANSAS CITY - Two Kansas City, Mo., men were indicted by a
federal grand jury, in separate and unrelated cases, today for possession
with intent to distribute crack cocaine. Derone D. Gipson, 22, of Kansas
City, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury
today in Kansas City.Wesley A. Box, 21, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged
in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury today in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
December 16, 2003
Three defendants indicted for firearms violations
KANSAS CITY - Three defendants were indicted by a federal grand
jury today, in separate and unrelated cases, for illegally possessing
firearms.
Read the News Release
December 16, 2003
Purdy, Mo., man sentenced for violating firearms
law
KANSAS CITY - A Purdy, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for violating federal firearms laws. Robert G. Gates, 52, of Purdy,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning
to five years and 10 months for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read the News Release
December 16, 2003
KC woman pleads guilty to defrauding her employer
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal
court today to defrauding her employer. LaDana L. Gilbert, 23, of Kansas
City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this
afternoon to embezzling funds from FirStar Bank, formerly known as Mercantile
Bank.
Read the News Release
December 15, 2003
New York man sentenced for role in ecstasy conspiracy
JEFFERSON CITY - A New York man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute ecstasy in a case that
resulted from Operation X-Posed, an investigation into ecstasy, cocaine
and methamphetamine trafficking in Greene County.
Read the News Release
December 15, 2003
Columbia man sentenced for possession of ecstasy,
cocaine
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for distributing cocaine and possessing with intent to distribute
ecstasy. Dustin Joseph Watts, 23, of Columbia, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to one year and one
day in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
December 15, 2003
Columbia man sentenced for illegal possession of
firearm
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for illegally possessing a firearm. Kenneth Dale Sparks, 25,
of Columbia, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this morning to two years and six months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
December 15, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to distributing nearly 500
grams of cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to distribution of cocaine. Freddie Harold, 60, of Kansas City,
Mo., also known as Ronald Johnson, pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to an information charging him
with distributing cocaine on Jan. 29, 2003, in Kansas City.
Read
the News Release
December 15, 2003
Three men sentenced in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Springfield man and two Texas men were sentenced
in federal court today for participating in a conspiracy to distribute
cocaine. Humberto Barrera, 23, and Oscar Montano, 22, both of Texas, were
each sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith to five years in
federal prison without parole. Jorge Torres, 25, of Springfield, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith to two years and six months in
federal prison without parole..
Read
the News Release
December 12, 2003
Browning man sentenced on meth, firearms charges
KANSAS CITY - A Browning, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today on methamphetamine and firearms charges. Wendell Dean Havens,
42, of Browning, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs
this morning to two years and six months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
December 12, 2003
Brother sentenced to life in prison
KANSAS CITY - An Independence, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for conspiring with his brother and others to manufacture
methamphetamine. Timothy W. Hines, also known as Peg Leg, 43, of Independence,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning
to life in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
December 12, 2003
Felon sentenced 20 years for illegally possessing
firearm
KANSAS CITY - Two convicted felons were sentenced in federal
court today, in separate and unrelated cases, for illegally possessing
firearms. Xavier E. Holmes, 55, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to 20 years
and 10 months in federal prison without parole. Lyle E. McMains, 24, of
Pleasant Hill, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan,
Jr., this morning to three years and two months in federal prison without
parole.
Read
the News Release
December 12, 2003
KC man pleads guilty in counterfeiting conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to participating in a conspiracy to pass counterfeit money.
Deandre Pointer, 31, of Kansas City, pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon.
Read
the News Release
December 12, 2003
Barry County man charged in extortion threat
SPRINGFIELD - A Barry County, Mo., man has been charged in
federal court with making threats and extortion. Larry James Reynolds,
also known as Jamie Reynolds, 35, of Barry County, was charged in a two-count
criminal complaint filed on Dec. 8, 2003, in U.S. District Court in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
December 12, 2003
Fulton woman indicted for bank embezzlement
JEFFERSON CITY - A Fulton, Mo., woman was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for embezzling from Central Trust Bank in Fulton. Brenda
W. Chambers, 45, of Fulton, was charged with embezzlement in an indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City. Chambers was employed
as the supervisor of tellers at Central Trust during the time of the alleged
embezzlement.
Read
the News Release
December 12, 2003
Columbia woman indicted for falsifying income to
receive federal housing aid
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia, Mo., woman was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for providing false information in order to quality for
a federal housing subsidy that she was not entitled to receive. Donna
Marie Sly, 40, of Columbia, was charged in a three-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City.
Read
the News Release
December 11, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to bank burglary
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to burglarizing Central Communications Credit Union. David
S. Adams, 33, of Kansas City, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge
Gary A. Fenner this morning to an indictment that was returned by a federal
grand jury on Oct. 7, 2003.
Read
the News Release
December 11, 2003
California man sentenced in $20 million 'Miracles
Cars scheme
KANSAS CITY - A California man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in the Miracle Cars scheme. He was the final defendant
to be sentenced in the nationwide conspiracy that stole more than $20
million from thousands of victims, including some victims in the Kansas
City area. Robert Gomez, 28, of Long Beach, Calif., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to 21 years and 10 months
in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Gomez to pay
$12,527,195 in restitution.
Read the News Release
December 11, 2003
PSN proving effective in fighting gun crime locally,
nationally
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, today joined Attorney General John Ashcroft
in applauding the record of federal, state, and local law enforcement
agencies, prosecutors, and communities who are working together through
Project Safe Neighborhoods to prevent and prosecute gun crime.
Read the News Release
December 11, 2003
KC man sentenced to 15 years for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for violating a federal firearms law. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Willie R. Robinson, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning to 15 years in federal prison without
parole.
Read the News Release
December 11, 2003
Chillicothe man sentenced for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Chillicothe, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Graves said
the case is the result of work completed by the NITRO task force. Joshua
E. Craig, 26, of Chillicothe, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Scott O. Wright this morning to three years and 10 months in federal prison
without parole.
Read the News Release
December 9, 2003
Second defendant charged with smuggling illegal
aliens
SPRINGFIELD - A
second defendant was charged in federal court today with illegally transporting
illegal aliens within the United States. Julio Martinez-Resendiz,
36, a citizen of Mexico, was charged this morning in a criminal complaint
filed in U.S. District Court in Springfield. The criminal complaint alleges
that Martinez-Resendiz illegally transported an illegal alien within the
United States by means of a vehicle for the purpose of private financial
gain.
Read the News Release
December 8, 2003
Two charged for possessing 27 stolen firearms
KANSAS CITY - Two men were charged in federal court today with
illegally possessing 27 stolen firearms in Oregon County, Mo. Matthew
M. Bradley, 36, and Kamela D. Crone, 36, were charged this afternoon in
a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Springfield. The
criminal complaint alleges that the co-defendants illegally possessed
27 shotguns, assault rifles and semi-automatic pistols, among others,
along with ammunition, on Dec. 4, 2003, in Oregon County, Mo.
Read the News Release
December 8, 2003
U.S. citizen charged with smuggling illegal aliens
SPRINGFIELD - A United States citizen was charged in federal
court today with illegally transporting illegal aliens within the United
States. Raul Enriquez, 27, of Phoenix, Ariz., was charged this afternoon
in a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Springfield. The
criminal complaint alleges that Enriquez illegally transported an illegal
alien within the United States by means of a vehicle for the purpose of
private financial gain.
Read the News Release
December 5, 2003
Florida man charged with selling more than $1 million
of counterfeit Lipitor
KANSAS CITY - A Florida man was charged in federal court today
with selling counterfeit Lipitor, a prescription drug widely used to reduce
cholesterol. Julio Cesar Cruz, 41, of Miami, Fla., was charged in a criminal
complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., this morning.
Cruz is a naturalized U.S. citizen from Cuba.
Read
the News Release
Court Documents:
Criminal Complaint
Affidavit
Order
for Writ of Habeus Corpus Ad Prosequendum
December 4, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to using fake ID in check
forgery
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to using an altered identification card in the name of another
person to negotiate forged checks. Richard A. Minnick, 33, of Kansas City,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this
morning to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Aug. 20,
2003.
Read the News Release
December 4, 2003
Independence couple pleads guilty to housing two
meth labs
KANSAS CITY - A second Independence, Mo., resident pleaded
guilty in federal court today to conspiring to manufacture and distribute
methamphetamine. Brenda K. Hoevet, 40, of Independence, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to conspiracy
to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
December 4, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to possession, intent to distribute
crack
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to possessing with intent to distribute crack cocaine. Marcus
W. Taylor, 23, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to possessing with intent to distribute
crack cocaine.
Read the News Release
December 3, 2003
California man sentenced in $20 million 'Miracle
Cars' scheme
KANSAS CITY - A California man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in the Miracle Cars scheme – a nationwide conspiracy
that stole more than $20 million from thousands of victims, including
some victims in the Kansas City area. James R. Nichols, 28, of Carson,
Calif., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this
afternoon to 24 years and four months in federal prison without parole.
The court also ordered Nichols to pay $12,527,195 in restitution.
Read the News Release
December 3, 2003
Trenton resident third to plead guilty in meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A third co-defendant pleaded guilty in federal
court today to her involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy. The guilty
plea, Graves said, is the result of work completed by the NITRO Task Force.
Mary Lynn Thomas, 36, of Trenton, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to her role in a methamphetamine
conspiracy.
Read the News Release
December 3, 2003
Kansas man sentenced for income tax evasion
KANSAS CITY - A Basehor, Kan., man was sentenced in federal
court today for income tax evasion. Mark A. Fronce, 41, of Basehor, Kan.,
was sentenced in federal court by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this
afternoon to one year and three months in federal prison without parole.
He also was ordered to pay a $2,000 fine. Additionally, he is being required
to pay $434,522 in taxes, including penalties and interest, Graves said.
Read the News Release
December 3, 2003
Lake Lotawana man convicted on meth, firearm charge
KANSAS CITY - A Lake Lotawana, Mo., man has been convicted
by a federal jury on charges related to manufacturing methamphetamine
and being a felon in possession of several firearms. Gregory C. Curnett,
38, of Lake Lotawana, Mo., was found guilty on Dec. 2, 2003, of all charges
contained in a three-count federal indictment.
Read the News Release
December 2, 2003
Browning man sentenced on meth, firearms charges
KANSAS CITY - A Browning, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today on methamphetamine and firearms charges. Donald Wayne Hughes,
32, of Browning, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs
this morning to two years and six months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
December 2, 2003
Jury convicts KC man of firearm violation related
to drug crime
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man has been convicted by
a federal jury for using a firearm in a drug trafficking offense. Vaughn
Wattree, 39, of Kansas City, was found guilty on Dec. 1, 2003, of one
of three counts charged against him in an indictment returned by a federal
grand jury on Sept. 12, 2003. Wattree has already pleaded guilty to the
other two counts, related to his participation in a conspiracy to distribute
cocaine in Greene County, Mo.
Read the News Release
December 2, 2003
Weableau man convicted for manufacturing meth
JEFFERSON CITY - A Weableau, Mo., man was convicted by a federal
jury today for manufacturing methamphetamine and illegally possessing
firearms. Carl Robert Carter, 40, of Weableau, Mo., was found guilty of
all six counts of a federal indictment. Graves explained that the federal
charges stem from two search warrants executed at Carter's residence earlier
this year.
Read the News Release
December 1, 2003
Federal jury convicts felon for illegally possessing
firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was convicted by a federal
jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. David D. Henson,
51, of Kansas City, Mo., was found guilty of being a felon in possession
of a firearm.
Read the News Release
December 1, 2003
Arkansas woman sentenced for stealing identity
to cover past
SPRINGFIELD - An Arkansas woman was sentenced in federal court
today for stealing the identity of another woman to obtain a false Social
Security number, which she used to receive benefits. Terry Floy Sharon,
45, of Benton County, Ark., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr this morning to 15 months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
December 1, 2003
Former employee pleads guilty to stealing $200,000
SPRINGFIELD - A former employee of an armored vehicle business
in Springfield pleaded guilty in federal court today to stealing, and
aiding others in stealing, more than $200,000 from three local banks.
Stephanie Fuller Moreno, 37, of Springfield, Mo., waived her right to
a grand jury indictment and pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge
James C. England this morning to a federal information that charges her
with stealing, and aiding others in stealing, from three federally insured
banks.
Read the News Release
November 25, 2003
Nevada man sentenced on child porn charges
KANSAS CITY - A Nevada, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today on child pornography charges. Raymond Houdeshell, 41, of Nevada,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this afternoon to
five years in federal prison without parole for producing child pornography.
The court also ordered Raymond Houdeshell to forfeit to the United States
all computer-related equipment – including two Compaq Presario computers;
a Polaroid digital camera, an RCA camcorder; two videocassette recorders
– and all paraphernalia (including costumes and props) involved in
the production, distribution or possession of child pornography.
Read the News Release
November 25, 2003
Former Black Economic Union CEO sentenced for corruption
KANSAS CITY - The former president and CEO of the Black Economic
Union was sentenced in federal court today on charges of public corruption.
Sylvester Lee Holmes, 51, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this afternoon to five months in federal prison without
parole, followed by two years of supervised release, including five months
of home detention. The court also ordered Holmes to pay a $3,000 fine.
Holmes has already paid restitution in full.
Read the News Release
November 25, 2003
Convenience store owner sentenced for distributing
ingredients
KANSAS CITY - The owner of a local convenience store was sentenced
in federal court today for conspiring with his business partner and others
to distribute large quantities of an ingredient used to manufacture methamphetamine.
Rady I. Sdoulam, 33, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to nine years in federal prison without
parole. The court also ordered Sdoulam to forfeit to the United States
a 1994 Ford min-van that was used in the commission of the conspiracy.
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the News Release
November 24, 2003
KC man sentenced for conspiring to make counterfeit
checks
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for his involvement in a conspiracy to manufacture and pass
counterfeit checks. David W. Foster, 29, of Kansas City, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to one year in
federal prison, followed by two years of supervised release. The court
also ordered Foster to pay restitution in the amount of $39,894.74.
Read
the News Release
November 24, 2003
Blue Springs woman sentenced for defrauding her
employer
KANSAS CITY - A Blue Springs, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal
court today for defrauding her employer of $653,270.97. Sharon Marie Wheeler,
46, of Blue Springs, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner
this morning to four years in federal prison without parole. She also
was ordered to pay restitution derived from the fraud, including $653,270.90.
Read
the News Release
November 24, 2003
KC man sentenced to 20 years for possession, intent
to distribute
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack
cocaine. Jarrett D. Jackson, 21, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to 20 years in federal
prison without parole. Under federal law, Graves explained, Jackson's
sentence was increased from 10 years to 20 years because of a prior drug
conviction.
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the News Release
November 21, 2003
Princeton man indicted for kidnaping, carjacking,
firearms violations
KANSAS CITY - A Princeton, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for kidnaping, carjacking, and firearms violations. Raymond
L. Button, 73, of Princeton, Mo., was charged in a four-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
November 20, 2003
Warrensburg dealer pleads guilty to $368,000 fraud
against John Deere
KANSAS CITY - A former equipment dealer in Warrensburg, Mo.,
pleaded guilty in federal court today to a $368,000 scheme to defraud
John Deere. David E. Roberts, 57, of Warrensburg, Mo., waived his right
to an indictment and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple
this morning to a six-count federal information.
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the News Release
November 20, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to transporting stolen vehicle
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to unlawfully transporting a stolen vehicle across the state
line. Arron M. Lewis, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., waived his right to an
indictment and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith
this morning to a federal information. The information charges Lewis with
transporting a stolen 1997 Chrysler Sebring from the state of Missouri
to the state of Kansas. The information replaces a criminal complaint
filed against Lewis on Nov. 13, 2003.
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the News Release
November 19, 2003
Purkey receives death penalty for kidnaping, murder
KANSAS CITY - A man convicted of kidnaping and killing a 16-year-old
Kansas City, Mo., girl was sentenced to death by a federal jury today.
Wesley Ira Purkey, 51, was found guilty of the interstate kidnaping of
Jennifer Long for the purpose of forcible rape, resulting in her death,
on Nov. 5, 2003. The sentencing phase of that trial began Monday, Nov.
10, 2003. The jury in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Mo., deliberated
10 hours over two days before returning the death penalty verdict to U.S.
District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr.
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the News Release
November 19, 2003
Three Mexican brothers indicted on narcotics, immigration
charges
KANSAS CITY - Three Mexican men were indicted by a federal
grand jury today for violations of federal narcotics and immigration laws.
Sergio Leyva-Acosta, 28, Carlos Leyva-Acosta, 27, and Jose Hugo Leyva-Acosta,
23, all citizens of Mexico, were charged in a four-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City. The defendants are brothers.
Read
the News Release
November 19, 2003
Belton man indicted for computer hacking
KANSAS CITY - A Belton, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for the unauthorized computer intrusion at Aventis Pharmaceuticals.
Thomas S. Millot, 45, of Belton, Mo., was charged in a single-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City. Millot was employed as
an NT Information Technology security officer at Aventis’ office
in Kansas City until Oct. 2, 2000.
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the News Release
November 19, 2003
Eight indicted for immigration violations
SPRINGFIELD - Eight defendants – including a South Korean
man who owned and operated a restaurant in Springfield, Mo. – were
indicted by a federal grand jury today in separate and unrelated cases
of immigration-related violations.
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the News Release
November 18, 2003
Former judge sentenced for bribery
KANSAS CITY - A former Associate Circuit Court Judge in Sullivan
County was sentenced in federal court today for soliciting a bribe while
he was on the bench. Jeffrey D. Sayre, 37, of Milan, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to four years in
federal prison without parole. Sayre had served as an associate circuit
court judge for the 9th Judicial Circuit in Sullivan County, Mo. Sayre
has resigned from that position and has surrendered his license to practice
law.
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the News Release
November 18, 2003
California residents indicted in separate jewelry
theft conspiracies
KANSAS CITY - Four California residents were indicted by a
federal grand jury today in two separate cases for participating in jewelry
theft conspiracies that each included the armed robbery of a traveling
salesman. In each case, Graves said, the defendants allegedly followed
a traveling salesman who was conducting business in the metropolitan area
in order to confront him and forcibly steal merchandise -- approximately
$750,000 worth of jewelry and precious stones in one robbery, and nearly
$660,000 worth of jewelry and precious stones in the second robbery.
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the News Release
November 18, 2003
KC-North man indicted for possessing child pornography
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for possession of child pornography. James Michael Kinkade,
51, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
November 17, 2003
Sugar Creek man 18th, final to plead guilty in
meth case
KANSAS CITY - A Sugar Creek, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to his role in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute
methamphetamine. Brian V. Coen, 27, of Sugar Creek, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to conspiracy to
manufacture and distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Coen
is the last of 18 co-conspirators to plead guilty to charges contained
in a federal indictment.
Read
the News Release
November 14, 2003
Three co-defendants sentenced in metro meth case
KANSAS CITY - Two defendants were sentenced in federal court
today for their involvement in a metropolitan methamphetamine case. A
third defendant was sentenced on Nov. 13, 2003.
Read
the News Release
November 14, 2003
Osage Beach man sentenced for possessing child
porn
JEFFERSON CITY - An Osage Beach, Mo., man was sentenced in
federal court today for possession of child pornography. Larry H. Briesemeister,
58, of Osage Beach, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey this morning to two years in federal prison without parole.
The court also ordered him to pay a fine of $6,000.
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the News Release
November 14, 2003
Columbia man sentenced for distributing crack
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for distributing crack cocaine. Bohannon Thompson, 27, of
Columbia, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this morning to eight years and four months in federal prison without
parole.
Read
the News Release
November 13, 2003
Two Springfield men sentenced in Operation X-Posed
SPRINGFIELD - Two Springfield, Mo., men were sentenced in federal
court today in separate but related cases as a result of Operation X-Posed,
an investigation into ecstasy, cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking
in Greene County. Corey J. Merriman, 26, of Springfield, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to six years in federal
prison without parole. David F. Henry, 24, of Springfield, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to four years and
nine months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
November 12, 2003
Fulton man pleads guilty to child porn, obscenity
charges
JEFFERSON CITY - A Fulton, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to child pornography and obscenity charges. Jack Wayne Rogers,
58, of Fulton, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O.
Wright this morning to all counts of an 11-count superseding indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City on June 20, 2003.
Read the News Release
November 12, 2003
Chillicothe man sentenced for violating federal
firearms law
JEFFERSON CITY - A Chillicothe, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for violating federal firearms law. Michael Dewayne Cooper,
33, of Chillicothe, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O.
Wright this morning to three years and one month in federal prison without
parole for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read the News Release
November 12, 2003
Mexican national sentenced for illegal re-entry
into U.S.
JEFFERSON CITY - A Mexican national residing in Camdenton,
Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for illegally re-entering the
United States. Romaldo Viveros-Ortiz, 27, of Camdenton, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to five years of probation,
conditioned on him not returning to the United States.
Read the News Release
November 12, 2003
Mexican national sentenced for illegal re-entry
into U.S.
JEFFERSON CITY - A Mexican national was sentenced in federal
court today for illegally re-entering the United States. Miguel Moreno-Lopez,
36, of Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this
morning to five years of probation, conditioned on him not returning to
the United States.
Read the News Release
November 12, 2003
Sedalia man pleads guilty to possession of improvised
shotgun
JEFFERSON CITY - A Sedalia, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court this morning to possessing an improvised shotgun without a serial
number. Frederick Eugene Snider, Jr., 45, of Sedalia, pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to possessing an improvised
shotgun on March 23, 2003. The shotgun did not have a serial number and
was not registered to Snider in the National Firearms Registration and
Transfer Record.
Read the News Release
November 10, 2003
Two Vernon County residents sentenced for child
porn
KANSAS CITY- A Nevada, Mo., woman and a Schell City, Mo., man
were sentenced in federal court today on child pornography charges. Diane
K. Houdeshell, 40, of Nevada, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Richard E. Dorr this afternoon to seven years in federal prison without
parole for producing child pornography.
Read the News Release
November 10, 2003
Kirbyville man sentenced for involvement in meth
conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD - A Kirbyville, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for his role in a methamphetamine conspiracy. Howard A. Neustel,
33, of Kirbyville, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E.
Dorr this morning to four years and nine months in federal prison without
parole.
Read the News Release
November 10, 2003
Kirbyville man sentenced for involvement in meth
conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD - A Mexican citizen was sentenced in federal court
today for illegally re-entering the United States. Jesus Antonio Rodriguez,
34, who has an address in Dallas, Texas, but is a citizen of Mexico, was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this afternoon to two
years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
November 7, 2003
Fulton man indicted on charges related to status
as immigrant
JEFFERSON CITY - A Fulton, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today on charges related to his status as an illegal immigrant.
Jose Inez Hyder, 32, of Fulton, Mo., was charged in a three-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City. Hyder is a citizen
of Mexico.
Read the News Release
November 7, 2003
Boone County man indicted for possessing cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Boone County, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for possession with intent to distribute crack and powder
cocaine. Anthony Rudolph Vasquez, 38, address unknown, was charged in
a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City.
Read the News Release
November 7, 2003
KC man sentenced 20 years for crack cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role as the supplier in a conspiracy to distribute crack
cocaine from his home, less than a block from Center Elementary School.
Clarence J. Walton, 34, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to 20 years in federal prison without
parole.
Read the News Release
November 7, 2003
Grand jury indicts two felons for illegal possession
of firearms
JEFFERSON CITY- Two men were indicted by a federal grand jury
today, in separate and unrelated cases, for violating a federal firearms
law.
Read the News Release
November 7, 2003
Jerico Springs man pleads guilty to illegal possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD - A Jerico Springs, Mo., man pleaded guilty in
federal court this morning to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Stephen L. Salyer, 46, of Jerico Springs, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to being a felon in possession
of a firearm.
Read the News Release
November 6, 2003
Jury convicts Ava, Mo., man for obstructing the
IRS
KANSAS CITY - An Ava, Mo., man was convicted by a federal jury
for obstructing the Internal Revenue Service in the collection of federal
taxes owed to the government and for structuring currency transactions.
Roy Eugene Waters, 63, of Ava, Mo., was found guilty on Nov. 5, 2003,
of all nine counts of a federal indictment returned on Aug. 27, 2002.
The court ordered that Waters be taken into custody following the verdict.
Read the News Release
November 6, 2003
Federal jury convicts second co-defendant in meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Hollister, Mo., man has been convicted by a
federal jury for participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine
in Taney County, Mo.Alonzo F. Ellerman, 42, of Hollister, Mo., was found
guilty of two counts of a federal indictment, which alleged his participating
in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
November 6, 2003
Two KC men sentenced for illegal possession of
firearms
KANSAS CITY - Two Kansas City, Mo., men were sentenced in federal
court today for being felons in possession of firearms.
Read the News Release
November 5, 2003
Man convicted for 1998 kidnaping death of KC teen
girl
KANSAS CITY - A man already serving a life sentence in Kansas
for the 1998 murder of an elderly woman, was convicted by a federal jury
today for kidnaping and killing a 16-year-old Kansas City, Mo., girl that
same year. Wesley Ira Purkey, 51, was found guilty of the interstate kidnaping
of Jennifer Long for the purpose of forcible rape, resulting in her death.
Read the News Release
November 5, 2003
Princeton man charged with illegal possession of
firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Princeton, Mo., man was charged today in federal
court with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Raymond L. Button,
73, of Princeton, Mo., was charged in a criminal complaint filed this
morning in U.S. District Court in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
November 5, 2003
Two defendants sentenced for illegal possession
of firearms
KANSAS CITY - Two defendants were sentenced in federal court
today, in separate and unrelated cases, for being felons in possession
of firearms. The cases mark additional progress under Project Ceasefire,
the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Read the News Release
November 5, 2003
Two KC men sentenced for involvement in cocaine
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Two Kansas City men were sentenced in federal
court for their involvement in a cocaine conspiracy. Frankie D. Frencher,
22, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean
Whipple this morning to 11 years and three months in federal prison without
parole for his role in the cocaine conspiracy.
Read the News Release
November 5, 2003
Barnett, Mo., man sentenced for distributing marijuana
KANSAS CITY - A co-defendant in a Northwest Missouri methamphetamine
conspiracy was sentenced in federal court today for contributing ingredients
to the manufacture of the illegal narcotic. Harvey E. Smith, Jr., 26,
of St. Joseph, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this morning to seven years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
November 4, 2003
Barnett, Mo., man sentenced for distributing marijuana
KANSAS CITY - A Barnett, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for participating in a conspiracy to distribute hundreds of
pounds of marijuana in central Missouri and Arizona. Gregory Paul Allen,
47, of Barnett, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this morning to two years and six months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
November 4, 2003
Five indicted for bribery in Rockhurst contracts
KANSAS CITY - Five defendants – including several members
of a Kansas City-North family, a Gladstone CPA and a Lee's Summit business
owner – were indicted by a federal grand jury today for bribing a
former director of physical plant at Rockhurst University in order to
receive nearly $1 million in contracts for demolition and asbestos removal,
as well as charges of labor racketeering.
Read the News Release
November 4, 2003
11 felons indicted for illegal possession of firearms
KANSAS CITY - Eleven defendants were indicted by a federal
grand jury, in separate and unrelated cases, today for being felons in
possession of firearms.
Read the News Release
November 4, 2003
Second co-defendant sentenced in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A second Kansas City, Kan., man was sentenced
in federal court today for his involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy.
Christopher D. Francis, 24, of Kansas City, Kan., was sentenced by U.S.
District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to five years in federal
prison without parole for his role in the methamphetamine conspiracy.
Read the News Release
November 4, 2003
Columbia woman sentenced for distributing crack
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Columbia, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal
court today for distributing crack cocaine. Deidrea Lachelle Scott, also
known as Deidrea Lachelle Freelon, 34, of Columbia, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to three years
and 10 months in federal prison without parole for distributing crack
cocaine on Oct. 17, 2000, in Boone County, Mo.
Read the News Release
November 4, 2003
Woman pleads guilty to defrauding her employer
KANSAS CITY - A Columbia man was sentenced in federal court
today for manufacturing methamphetamine and being in possession of a stolen
firearm. Jesse Allen Howe, 23, of Columbia, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to 12 years and seven
months in federal prison without parole. Howe was returned to state custody,
Graves explained, and will serve the federal sentence following the completion
of two state sentences from cases in Henry County and Hickory County.
Read the News Release
October 31, 2003
Woman pleads guilty to defrauding her employer
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City woman pleaded guilty in federal
court today to defrauding her employer by making company checks payable
to herself and her creditors. Angeline P. Washington, 38, of Kansas City,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon
to charges contained in a federal information, which was filed in court
today.
Read the News Release
October 31, 2003
El Salvador resident sentenced for illegally re-entering
U.S.
KANSAS CITY - An El Salvador resident was sentenced in federal
court today for illegally re-entering the United States. Maurico Roques-Guandiques,
22, who is a native of El Salvador, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Ortrie D. Smith this morning to two years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
October 30, 2003
Federal jury convicts Branson man in meth conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD - A Branson, Mo., man was convicted by a federal
jury today of participating in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine
in Taney County, Mo. Michael R. Burns, 54, of Branson, Mo., was found
guilty of all three counts of a federal indictment.
Read the News Release
October 29, 2003
Jury convicts Ava, Mo., man for illegal firearms,
drugs
SPRINGFIELD - An Ava, Mo., man was convicted by a federal jury
today for violating federal firearms and narcotics laws. Michael W. Johnson,
36, of Ava, Mo., was found guilty today of being a felon in possession
of a two firearms, one of which was stolen, and possession of methamphetamine
by a jury in the U.S. District Court in Springfield. Following Johnson's
trial, Graves said, the jury deliberated one hour and 15 minutes before
returning the guilty verdict to U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner. The
trial began Monday, Oct. 27, 2003.
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October 24, 2003
Lee's Summit man indicted for child porn
KANSAS CITY - A Lee's Summit man was indicted by a federal
grand jury for attempting to entice a minor and for child pornography.
Bernard Craig Hibbard, 47, of Lee's Summit, Mo., was charged in a 12-count
indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City
on Oct. 20, 2003. That indictment was unsealed and made public today upon
Hibbard's arrest and initial court appearance. Graves added that a detention
hearing and arraignment are scheduled for 10:30 a.m. Friday, Oct. 31,
2003.
Read the News Release
October 24, 2003
Cattle buyers plead guilty to $160 million 'Phantom
Cattle' fraud
KANSAS CITY - Two defendants working together in a cattle investment
business pleaded guilty in federal court today to the largest financial
fraud ever prosecuted in the Western District of Missouri. The $160 million
"Phantom Cattle Scheme" involved victims in several Midwestern
states. George L. Young, 72, of Grant City, Mo., and Kathleen I. McConnell,
54, of Kansas City, Mo., co-owners of United Livestock Services, LCC and
Professional Business Services, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge
Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to all five counts of an indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City on Nov. 7, 2002.
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the News Release
October 23, 2003
Warrensburg woman indicted on charges related to
prostitution
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Warrensburg, Mo., woman has been
indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to prostitution. Cherri
Turnbow, 30, of Warrensburg, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment
returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas City on Oct. 22,
2003. That indictment was unsealed and made public today upon Turnbow's
arrest and initial court appearance.
Read the News Release
October 23, 2003
Former KU football player sentenced after
caught as fugitive
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A former University of Kansas football
player was sentenced in federal court today after spending nearly three
years as a fugitive from justice until he was arrested in Spain. Tywanne
M. Aldridge, 25, formerly of Lawrence, Kan., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to 13 years and one month in
federal prison without parole. The court enhanced Aldridge's sentence
due to his flight.
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the News Release
October 23, 2003
Bank employee indicted for fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., woman was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for defrauding her employer. LaDana L. Gilbert,
23, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned by a federal
grand jury this afternoon in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 23, 2003
Higginsville woman sentenced
in 'Miracle Cars' fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Higginsville, Mo., woman was sentenced
in federal court today for felony tax evasion in connection with nearly
$1 million she earned in the nationwide, multi-million dollar Miracle
Cars scheme. Corinne M. Conway, 63, of Higginsville, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to 14 months in
federal prison without parole. The court ordered Conway to pay $4,977,369
in restitution to the victims of the fraud.
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the News Release
October 23, 2003
North KC man indicted for possession, receipt of
child porn
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A North Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for possession, receipt and transportation
of child pornography. John A. Schafer, 58, of North Kansas City, Mo.,
was charged in a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury
in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 22, 2003
Tennessee woman sentenced in 'Miracle Cars' fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Tennessee woman was sentenced in
federal court today for her role in the multi-million dollar Miracle Cars
scheme. Gwendolyn Baker, 53, of Memphis, Tenn., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to five years in federal
prison without parole. The court also ordered Baker to pay $12,527,195
in restitution to the victims of the fraud.
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the News Release
October 22, 2003
Two Mexican men indicted in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Mexican men were indicted by a
federal grand jury today for their participation in a conspiracy to distribute
methamphetamine. Carlos Alaniz-Montano, 27, and Teodoro Orozco-Castillo,
33, both of Mexico, were charged in a two-count indictment returned by
a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 22, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal possession of ammunition
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for being a felon in possession of ammunition.
This case marks additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's
ongoing anti-crime initiative. Michael S. Dorch, 49, of Kansas City, Mo.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon
to three years and one month in federal prison without parol.
Read the News Release
October 22, 2003
Liberty man indicted for possessing meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Liberty, Mo., man was indicted by
a federal grand jury today for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Graves said the case is the result of the work of the NITRO task force.
Ryan D. McAdams, 44, of Liberty, Mo., was charged in a single-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
October 22, 2003
Sixth co-defendant pleads guilty in counterfeit
check scheme
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A sixth co-defendant pleaded guilty
in federal court today to his involvement in a conspiracy to manufacture
and pass counterfeit checks. Jeremy R. Riley, 25, of Kansas City, pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to
his role in a conspiracy to manufacture counterfeit checks and pass those
checks at various businesses between May 1, 2001, and March 31, 2003,
in Missouri and Kansas.
Read the News Release
October 22, 2003
Belton man sentenced for manufacturing meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Belton, Mo., man was sentenced in
federal court today for manufacturing methamphetamine in Kansas City.
Scott A. Brower, 38, of Belton, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando
J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to nine years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
October 22, 2003
Springfield man indicted for possessing child pornography
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man has been indicted
by a federal grand jury for possession of child pornography. James Alan
Sharer, 53, of Springfield, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand jury
in Springfield on Oct. 16 for being in possession of a computer hard drive
that contained three or more images of child pornography. Sharer's initial
court appearance was held on Oct. 21, 2003, and he was released on bond.
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
Carrollton man sentenced to nearly 20 years on
meth charge
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Carrollton, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for attempting to manufacture methamphetamine.
Orville L. Womack, 52, of Carrollton, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Scott O. Wright this afternoon to 19 years and seven months in federal
prison without parole. Graves noted that Womack was sentenced as a career
offender.
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
KCK man sentenced for distributing meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Kan., man was sentenced
in federal court today for distributing methamphetamine. Sylvestre Sepulveda,
30, of Kansas City, Kan., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O.
Wright this afternoon to nine years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
Two plead guilty to distributing ecstacy, money
laundering
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two California residents pleaded guilty
in federal court today to distributing ecstacy and money laundering. Robert
P. Sanchez, Jr., 27, and Martine C. Scorza, 34, both of California, pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning in Kansas
City.
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
Montett man indicted for possessing child porn
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Monett, Mo., man has been indicted
by a federal grand jury for possession of child pornography. Gregory Parker
Kimball, 39, of Monett, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Springfield on Oct. 16, 2003. Kimball surrendered
to authorities and appeared in court yesterday. He was released on bond.
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
10 defendants indicted on Operation Ice Palace
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Ten defendants have been indicted by
a federal grand jury as a result of Operation Ice Palace, a multi-jurisdictional
investigation into pseudeophedrine diversion and methamphetamine manufacturing
in southwest Missouri.
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
Independence man indicted on narcotics and firearms
violations
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., man was indicted
by a federal grand jury today on narcotics and firearms violations. Robert
H. Reinhardt, 38, of Independence, Mo., was charged in a three-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
500th felon indicted for possessing firearm in
KC metro area
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The 500th felon in possession of a
firearm has been indicted under Project Ceasefire, the district's on-going
anti-crime initiative that was launched in 1999. "As Project Ceasefire
reaches this benchmark in its prosecution of felons in possession of firearms,
we continue to concentrate on the task at hand - to ensure the safety
of our community by keeping repeat offenders off the streets," U.S.
Attorney Todd Graves said. "It is our goal to pick up the pace in
months and years ahead, and soon enough we will be marking the 1,000th
felon in possession charge."
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
Second of three sentenced in meth, cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Shawnee, Kan., man was sentenced
in federal court today for conspiring with others to distribute 500 grams
or more of methamphetamine and five kilograms or more of cocaine. David
Wheat, 41, of Shawnee, also known as Uncle Dave, was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to nine years in federal
prison without parole.
Read the News Release
October 21, 2003
St. Joseph woman pleads guilty to bank fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A St. Joseph woman pleaded guilty in
federal court today to defrauding her employer Pony Express Community
Bank. Connie Sue Murphy, 35, of St. Joseph, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to a one-count
information charging her with bank fraud.
Read the News Release
October 20, 2003
Internet operator sentenced to nearly 20 years
for child porn
KANSAS CITY - A Georgia man who operated "teen modeling"
sites on the Internet was sentenced in federal court today for producing
and transporting child pornography. Gary Lee Smith, 37, of Jefferson,
Georgia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning
to 19 years and seven months in federal prison without parole. The court
also ordered Smith to pay $20,800 in restitution to his victim. Graves
noted that the court granted the government's motion for an upward departure
in sentencing Smith to a longer term than what is contained in the federal
sentencing guidelines.
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the News Release
October 18, 2003
Man sentenced for possessing meth with intent to
distribute
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A man was sentenced in federal court
today for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. John Mark
Gay, 41, who has no permanent address, was sentenced by U.S. District
Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to five years and 10 months in
federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
October 18, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The
case is being prosecuted under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing
anti-crime initiative. Jason D. Cummings, 23, of Kansas City, Mo., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to two years
and eight months in federal prison without parole for being a felon in
possession of a firearm.
Read the News Release
October 17, 2003
Former state employee sentenced for possession
of child porn
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – The former supervisor of the Division
of Child Support Enforcement in Joplin, Mo., has been sentenced in federal
court for possession of child pornography. Wesley George Thorn, 46, of
Carl Junction, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith
on Oct. 16, 2003, to two years and three months in federal prison without
parole.
Read the News Release
October 17, 2003
Three sentenced, another pleads guilty to firearms
vioations
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Three defendants were sentenced and
another pleaded guilty in federal court, in separate and unrelated cases,
today for illegally possessing firearms.
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
Kansas man pleads guilty to $178,000 check-writing
scheme
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to a bank fraud by means of a check-writing scheme involving
counterfeit and non-sufficient fund checks totaling more than $178,000.
Ray T. Streetman, 25, of McFarland, Kan., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning to an indictment returned by a federal
grand jury on Aug. 7, 2002, in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to cocaine, firearm violations
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in
federal court today to possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine
and illegal possession of firearms. John B. Roberts, 22, of Kansas City,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning
to possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and illegal possession
of a firearm.
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
Defendant sentenced for robbing Springfield bank
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A defendant was sentenced in federal
court today for robbing a Springfield, Mo., bank. Ryan Lee Tyger, 29,
address unknown, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Ortrie D.
Smith this afternoon to three years and 10 months in federal prison without
parole. The court also ordered him to pay $1,453 in restitution..
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
12 indicted for violating federal firearms, narcotics
laws
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A dozen defendants were indicted by
a federal grand jury today in separate and unrelated cases of violating
federal firearms and narcotics laws.
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
Two Mexicans indicted for illegally entering the
U.S.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Two Mexican men were indicted by a
federal grand jury today on separate and unrelated cases for illegally
re-entering the United States. Jose Luis Reyes-Cadena, 26, a citizen of
Mexico, was charged with entering the United States without permission
after being previously deported, in an indictment returned by a grand
jury in Springfield. Tomas Castro-Estrada, 27, a citizen of Mexico, was
charged with entering the United States without permission after being
previously deported, in an indictment returned by a grand jury in Springfield.
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
Springfield man indicted in five bank robberies
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for robbing five Springfield banks, allegedly
stealing nearly $26,000 over a 13-month period. Santana D. Kirk, 26, of
Springfield, Mo., was charged in a five-count indictment returned by a
federal grand jury in Springfield. Today's indictment replaces a criminal
complaint filed against Kirk on Sept. 23, 2003.
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
Federal inmate indicted for escape from custody
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A woman at a federal corrections facility
in Springfield was indicted by a federal grand jury today for escaping
from the facility. Amy M. Jones, 34, an inmate at Alpha House Community
Corrections Center in Springfield, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand
jury for escaping from the center on Sept. 21, 2003. According to the
indictment, Jones was incarcerated after being convicted of conspiracy
to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
Mexican national indicted for distributing meth
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Mexican national was indicted by
a federal grand jury today for distributing methamphetamine in Greene
County, Mo. Ramiro Flores-Torres, 34, of Springfield, Mo., was charged
in a five-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.
Flores-Torres is a citizen of Mexico.
Read the News Release
October 16, 2003
Man, woman indicted in meth conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A man and woman were indicted by a
federal grand jury today for participating in a conspiracy to distribute
methamphetamine in McDonald County, Mo. Donovan Ray Cole, also known as
Dino, 30, and Cynthea A. Anderson, 35, were charged in a three-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in SpringfielD.
Read the News Release
October 15, 2003
Second Mexican national in KC sentenced in meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican citizen residing in Kansas
City, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for conspiring to distribute
methamphetamine. Jose Luis Rodriguez, 27, who is a Mexican national residing
in Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this
morning to three years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
October 15, 2003
Defendant pleads guilty to robbing 2 banks in KC
area
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A defendant pleaded guilty today to
robbing two banks in the Kansas City area. John D. Bratton, 33, who has
no permanent address, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott
O. Wright this morning to robbing banks in Gladstone, Mo., and Independence,
Mo.
Read the News Release
October 14, 2003
4th co-conspirator pleads
guilty to cashing 122 AT&T checks
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man pleaded guilty
in federal court today to robbing a bank using a dangerous weapon. Richard
Lee Paine, Sr., 37, of Springfield, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to robbing O'Bannon Bank on June 15,
2002, in Dallas County, Mo. Paine also admitted to assaulting a bank employee
by the use of a handgun when committing the robbery.
Read the News Release
October 14, 2003
Springfield man pleads guilty to robbing bank using
handgun
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man pleaded guilty
in federal court today to robbing a bank using a dangerous weapon. Richard
Lee Paine, Sr., 37, of Springfield, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to robbing O'Bannon Bank on June 15,
2002, in Dallas County, Mo. Paine also admitted to assaulting a bank employee
by the use of a handgun when committing the robbery.
Read the News Release
October 10, 2003
Two KC men indicted in drug trafficking conspiracy,
turf war
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City, Mo., men have been
indicted by a federal grand jury on charges related to a drug trafficking
conspiracy that erupted in turf wars with rival street gangs. Jamal T.
Norris, 21, and Steve L. Wright, Jr., 20, both of Kansas City, Mo., were
charged in a 21-count superseding indictment that was returned under seal
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City on Oct. 8, 2003.
Read the News Release
October 10, 2003
KC woman sentenced for personal, employment tax
fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., woman was sentenced
in federal court today on charges of personal and employment tax fraud.
Dawn Marie Goszewski, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to 21 months in federal prison
without parole. The court also ordered Goszewski to cooperate with the
Internal Revenue Service to pay all outstanding amounts owed to the government,
including $281,584 in income tax and $279,027 in employment tax.
Read the News Release
October 10, 2003
Mexican national pleads guilty to illegal re-entry
into U.S.
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Mexican national pleaded guilty today
to illegally re-entering the United States after having been previously
deported. Martin Garcia-Lopez, 46, of Mexico, pleaded guilty before U.S.
Magistrate Judge James C. England this morning in Springfield.
Read the News Release
October 10, 2003
Mt. Grove man pleads guilty to illegal possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Mt. Grove, Mo., man pleaded guilty
today to being a felon in possession of a firearm after being arrested
for shooting out the tire of a vehicle and hitting the driver with his
shotgun. Lester Bradley Thompson, 43, of Mt. Grove, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. Magistrate Judge James C. England this morning to being a
felon in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
October 10, 2003
Mexican man living in Camdenton guilty of illegal
re-entry
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national residing in Camdenton,
Mo., pleaded guilty in federal court today to illegally re-entering the
United States. Romaldo Viveros-Ortiz, 27, of Camdenton, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning in Jefferson City.
Read
the News Release
October 10, 2003
Carthage man convicted of being felon in possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Carthage, Mo., man pleaded guilty
today to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Douglas M. Gollhofer,
31, of Carthage, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge James
C. England this morning to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
October 10, 2003
Mexcian national pleads guilty to illegally re-entering
U.S.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national pleaded guilty
today to illegally re-entering the United States. Miguel Moreno-Lopez,
36, of Mexico, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
this morning in Jefferson City.
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the News Release
October 9, 2003
KC man sentenced for possession of firearm following
shooting
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The
case is being prosecuted under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing
anti-crime initiative. Maurice B. Brown, 37, of Kansas City, Mo., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning four years
and nine months in federal prison without parole for being a felon in
possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
October 9, 2003
KC man sentenced for possession, intent to distribute
meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – a Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Ryan A. McKinney, 27, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Ortrie D. Smith this afternoon five years and 10 months in federal
prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
October 8, 2003
Three KC residents indicted for distributing narcotics
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Kansas City, Mo., residents were
indicted by a federal grand jury today for conspiracy to distribute narcotics
after law enforcement officers found drugs at a home day care. Clifford
E. Dorsey, 43, Valeriece D. Ealom, 34, and Megashia C. Jackson, 27, all
of Kansas City, Mo., were charged in a 16-count indictment returned by
a federal grand jury in Kansas City. Today's indictment replaces a federal
criminal complaint filed against the defendants on Sept. 11, 2003.
Read
the News Release
October 8, 2003
KC man indicted for distributing cocaine on six
occasions
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for distributing cocaine on six separate
occasions. Ruben Miranda, 34, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a six-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury this afternoon in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 8, 2003
Two KC men indicted for conspiring to distribute
crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City, Mo., men were indicted
by a federal grand jury today for conspiring to distribute crack cocaine.
Andre T. Ponds, 37, also known as Dre, and Craig Steven Moore, 31, both
of Kansas City, were charged in a seven-count indictment returned by a
federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 8, 2003
KC man indicted for possession, intent to distribute
meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for possessing with intent to distribute
methamphetamine. Bryan J. Shoemate, 42, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged
in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury this afternoon in Kansas
City.
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the News Release
October 8, 2003
Belton man indicted on various drug, firearm charges
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Belton, Mo., man was indicted by
a federal grand jury today on various drug and firearms charges. Gregory
D. Goodall, 45, of Belton, Mo., was charged in a three-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 8, 2003
Licking man pleads guilty to being felon in possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Licking, Mo., man pleaded guilty
today to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Donald R. Shrout, 54,
of Licking, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge James C.
England this afternoon to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
October 7, 2003
Five men indicted in four burglaries of financial
institutions
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Five men were indicted by a federal
grand jury today on charges related to burglaries at three Kansas City
area banks and credit unions. Aaron E. Rogers, 34, and Daniel W. Pitts,
25, Richard L. Morse, 25, Charles E. Miller, 39, and David S. Adams, 33,
all of Kansas City, were charged in a seven-count superseding indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City. Today's superseding indictment
replaces an earlier indictment against Rogers and Pitts by adding additional
charges and defendants.
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the News Release
October 7, 2003
KC, Independence felons indicted for possession
of firearms
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Six felons were indicted today, in
separate and unrelated cases, by a federal grand jury for violating federal
firearms laws. The indictments are part of Project Ceasefire, the district's
ongoing anti-crime initiative.
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the News Release
October 7, 2003
Three Mexican nationals charged with distributing
meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Mexican nationals living in the
metropolitan area were charged today with distributing methamphetamine
in a superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas
City. Jesus Gonzalez, 29, who resides in Independence, Francisco J. Soto-Alvarado,
24, who resides in Kansas City, and Victor M. Rios, 36, who resides in
Kansas City, were charged in a three-count superseding indictment returned
this afternoon by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 7, 2003
St. Joseph, Cameron felons indicted for possessing
firearms
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three defendants were indicted today,
in separate and unrelated cases, by a federal grand jury for being felons
in possession of firearms. The indictments, Graves said, are the result
of work completed by the NITRO Task Force.
Read
the News Release
October 7, 2003
Grandview woman indicted for computer fraud, identity
theft
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Grandview, Mo., woman was indicted
by a federal grand jury today on charges related to computer fraud and
identity theft. Andrea Ross, 23, Grandview, Mo., was charged five-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 7, 2003
Texas man indicted for using false document to
board KCI flight
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Texas man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for using a false document in an attempt to gain access
to the jump-seat on a Northwest Airlines flight at Kansas City International
Airport. Douglas Scott Lampert, 45, of San Antonio, Texas, was charged
in a one-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 3, 2003
Jefferson City man indicted for false military
identification
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Jefferson City, Mo., was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for producing and being in possession of
a false identification document that appeared to identify him as an officer
in the armed forces of the United States. Mark Lee Lavine Fowler, also
known as Col. Fowler or Dr. Fowler, 40, of Jefferson City, Mo., was charged
in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in
Jefferson City.
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the News Release
October 3, 2003
Kansas man pleads guilty to cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Roeland Park, Kan., man pleaded guilty
today to distributing cocaine, then laundering the proceeds by purchasing
a truck from a Blue Springs dealer who has already been sentenced for
his role in the incident. Christopher E. Horsley, 31, of Roeland Park,
Kan., waived his right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Scott O. Wright this afternoon to a federal information.
Read
the News Release
October 3, 2003
Weableau man faces additional meth, firearm charges
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Weableau, Mo., man was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for allegedly manufacturing methamphetamine
and illegally possessing firearms. Carl Robert Carter, 40, of Weableau,
Mo., was charged in a six-count second superseding indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting today in Jefferson City. The second superseding
indictment replaces a previously returned indictment and superseding indictment
by adding four counts to the original charges. Carter was first charged
in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on April 30, 2003.
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the News Release
October 3, 2003
Mexican national indicted for illegally re-entering
the U.S.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican national residing in Camdenton,
Mo., was indicted by a federal grand jury today for illegally re-entering
the United States. Romaldo Viveros-Oritiz, 27, of Camdenton, Mo., was
charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting today
in Jefferson City.
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the News Release
October 2, 2003
Independence felon sentenced for possession of
ammunition
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for being a felon in possession of ammunition.
The case marks additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's
ongoing anti-crime initiative. Michael P. Danaher, 33, of Independence,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this
morning to three years and one month in federal prison without parole
for being a felon in possession of ammunition.
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the News Release
October 1, 2003
KC man sentenced for distributing crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was sentenced in
federal court today for distributing crack cocaine. David L. Willoughby,
32, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean
Whipple to seven years and eight months in federal prison without parole
for distributing crack cocaine in Kansas City.
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the News Release
October 1, 2003
Third co-defendant convicted in metro meth case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A third co-defendant pleaded guilty
in federal court today for illegal distribution of a chemical used in
the manufacture of methamphetamine. Michael J. Armstrong, 50, who currently
is incarcerated, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J.
Gaitan, Jr., this morning to conspiracy to distribute ephedrine, a chemical
used in the manufacture of methamphetamine, between Dec. 30, 2002, and
Jan. 28, 2003.
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the News Release
September 30, 2003
Former Platte City man sentenced for sodomy, child
porn
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A former Platte City, Mo., man has
been sentenced on both state and federal charges related to sodomy and
child pornography. Andy M. Deuninck, 41, formerly of Platte City, Mo.,
pleaded guilty in Platte County Circuit Court today and was sentenced
to 25 years in state prison for statutory sodomy in the first degree.
Deuninck admitted before Presiding Circuit Judge Owens Lee Hull, Jr.,
that he had deviate sexual intercourse with a 4-year-old girl between
Nov. 9, 1995 and June 1, 2000. Deuninck was sentenced on Sept. 29, 2003,
in U.S. District Court in Kansas City, Kan., to 12 years and seven months
in federal prison without parole. Graves noted that this was the longest
sentence available under the federal sentencing guidelines. On July 8,
2003, Deuninck pleaded guilty to producing child pornography.
Read
the News Release
September 30, 2003
KC man sentenced 15 years for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
to 15 years in federal prison today for being a felon in possession of
a firearm. The case marks additional progress under Project Ceasefire,
the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative. Andrew J. Maxey, 39, of
Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple
this morning to 15 years in federal prison without parole for being a
felon in possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
September 30, 2003
KC felon sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The
case marks additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's
ongoing anti-crime initiative. Nicholas N. Maize, 24, of Kansas City,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning
to four years and three months in federal prison without parole, which
will be served consecutive to a state sentence he currently is serving.
Read
the News Release
September 26, 2003
Two Gallatin men sentenced for conspiracy to manufacture
meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Gallatin, Mo., men were sentenced
in federal court today for conspiring to manufacture methamphetamine.
The sentences, Graves said, are the result of work completed by the NITRO
task force. James E. Hershberger, 25, and Billie L. Asher, 31, both of
Gallatin, Mo., were sentenced in separate appearances before U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning. Hershberger was sentenced to two
years and 11 months in federal prison without parole. Asher was sentenced
to 20 months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
September 26, 2003
Fulton man pleads guilty to possession of child
porn
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Fulton, Mo., man pleaded guilty in
federal court today to possession of child pornography. Mikel P. Sweeney,
33, of Fulton, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O.
Wright this morning to being in possession of computer files that contained
visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Read
the News Release
September 26, 2003
Five residents indicted for conspiring to make
meth near school
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Five defendants have been indicted
by a federal grand jury for their involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy.
The indictment, Graves said, is the result of work completed by the NITRO
Task Force. Lori A. Clements, 42, and Terry A. Clements, 44, both of Barnard,
Mo., Kelly D. Vore, 33, and Billie J. Clements, 22, both of Maryville,
Mo., and Lester L. Lahoda, 26, of Bolckow, Mo., were each charged in Count
One of the federal indictment alleging they conspired to manufacture 50
grams or more of methamphetamine between Sept. 1, 2001, and Sept. 16,
2003, in Nodaway and Andrew Counties of Missouri.
Read
the News Release
September 26, 2003
Jefferson City man sentenced for distributing cocaine
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A third co-defendant was sentenced
in federal court today for distributing cocaine in the Jefferson City
and Fulton, Mo., areas. Jerrold Leon Faulkner, 32, of Jefferson City,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to 12
years and seven months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
September 25, 2003
St. Joseph banker pleads guilty to $125,000 fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A former St. Joseph banker pleaded
guilty in federal court today. Douglas E. Dougherty, 45, of St. Joseph,
Mo., waived his right to a grand jury indictment and pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to a five-count
information that charges him with mail fraud. Dougherty was the branch
manager at the US Bank, 3115 Ashland Ave., St. Joseph, Mo., for about
four years prior to being transferred to the bank's trust department in
November 2001. He had worked at the bank for approximately 21 years.
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the News Release
September 25, 2003
St. Joseph woman sentenced for defrauding 9/11
funds
KANSAS CITY - A St. Joseph woman pleaded guilty and was sentenced
in federal court today for defrauding several disaster relief organizations
working to assist victims of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks
on the World Trade Center in New York. Cassaundrea Estelle Montgomery,
42, of St. Joseph, was sentenced to 21 months in federal prison without
parole after pleading guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this morning to four counts of mail fraud.
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the News Release
September 25, 2003
10th co-defendant sentenced for distributing meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A 10th co-defendant was sentenced in
federal court today for distributing methamphetamine. Richard B. Coker,
35, address unknown, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this afternoon to 11 years and eight months in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
September 25, 2003
Trenton, Warrensburg resident indicted for meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Four defendants have been indicted
by a federal grand jury for their involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy.
The indictment, Graves said, is the result of work completed by the NITRO
Task Force. Each of the defendants was charged in a sealed indictment
returned by a federal grand jury on Sept. 17, 2003, in Kansas City. The
three-count indictment was unsealed and made public upon the defendants'
arrest and first appearance in court on Sept. 24, 2003, in Kansas City.
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the News Release
September 25, 2003
Five defendants indicted for involvement in meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Five defendants have been indicted
by a federal grand jury for their involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy.
The indictment, Graves said, is the result of work completed by the NITRO
Task Force. Each of the defendants was charged in a sealed indictment
returned by a federal grand jury on Sept. 17, 2003, in Kansas City. The
indictment was unsealed and made public upon the defendants' arrest and
first appearance in court on Sept. 24, 2003, in Kansas City.
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the News Release
September 24, 2003
Rockhurst University employee pleads guilty to
fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The former director of physical plant
at Rockhurst University pleaded guilty today to defrauding the university
by taking more than $100,000 in bribes as a part of a kickback scheme,
and to filing a false tax return. Ralph E. Dunn, 64, of Niceville, Fla.,
waived his right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to a federal information. Dunn
is the former director of physical plant at Rockhurst University, a Jesuit
university at 1100 Rockhurst Road, Kansas City, Mo.
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the News Release
September 24, 2003
KC man sentenced to 15 years for intent to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
to 15 years in federal prison today for possessing, with intent to distribute,
50 grams or more of crack cocaine. Clifton B. Cloyd, 42, of Kansas City,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning
to 15 years in federal prison without parole for possessing with intent
to distribute crack cocaine. Cloyd also was ordered to forfeit all proceeds
derived as a result of the federal law violation, which includes $2,725
in cash, a 1998 Land Rover, a 1989 Jaguar XJS and a 1986 Corvette.
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the News Release
September 24, 2003
Drug user pleads guilty to illegal possession of
firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., woman pleaded
guilty today to being an illegal drug user in possession of a firearm.
Lisa Caffey, 35, of Independence, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to being an unlawful user
of a controlled substance in possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
September 23, 2003
St. Joseph woman sentenced in fraud at family car
dealership
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The office manager for her family’s
car dealership was sentenced in federal court today for defrauding company
employees and lenders. Tamara S. Ward, 39, of St. Joseph, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this afternoon to two
years and nine months in federal prison without parole. The court also
ordered Ward to pay $990,494.68 in restitution to all victims involved
in the fraud.
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the News Release
September 23, 2003
Springfield man charged in five bank robberies
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was charged
in federal court today with robbing five Springfield banks. Santana D.
Kirk, 26, of Springfield, Mo., was charged with five separate bank robberies,
according to the criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Springfield.
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the News Release
September 23, 2003
Jury convicts Springfield man after threatening
workers at homeless shelter
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man has been convicted
by a trial jury of violating federal firearms law after he threatened
workers at a homeless shelter with a Derringer. James W. Bell, 36, of
Springfield, Mo., was found guilty of being a felon in possession of a
firearm on Sept. 22, 2003.
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the News Release
September 23, 2003
KC, Raytown men sentenced for firearms violations
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man and a Raytown man
were sentenced in federal court today in separate and unrelated cases
of violating federal firearms laws. Phillip E. Boose, 22, of Kansas City,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to
20 years in federal prison without parole. Brian S. Wright, 33, of Raytown,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this
morning to one year and 11 months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
September 19, 2003
Columbia man sentenced for
possession of child porn
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Columbia, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for possession of child pornography. Larry Dale
Baldwin, 52, of Columbia, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott
O. Wright this morning to two years and nine months in federal prison
without parole. The court also ordered Baldwin to forfeit to the United
States any property used to commit the offense, including computer hardware
and software.
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the News Release
September 19, 2003
Five KC men indicted in counterfeiting conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Five Kansas City, Mo., men were indicted
by a federal grand jury today in a conspiracy to pass counterfeit money.
Daniel B. Crofton, 23, Gerald Woods, 33, Deandre Pointer, 31, Demetrice
E. Johnson, 26, and Donald R. Adkins, 28, all of Kansas City, Mo., were
charged in a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in
Kansas City.
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the News Release
September 16, 2003
Forsythe man sentenced for producing child porn
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Forsythe, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for producing child pornography. Danny Ray Lee,
Sr., 53, of Forsyth, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr this afternoon to 17 years and six months in federal prison without
parole. The court also ordered Lee to pay $8,320 in restitution to the
victim's parents, the Missouri Crime Victims Compensation Fund, the Child
Advocacy Center, the Missouri Department of Health, and Med-Pay.
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the News Release
September 16, 2003
Oklahoma man indicted for bank fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Oklahoma man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today in a bank fraud that involved counterfeit checks drawn
on the account of Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. Karl Edwin Smith,
47, of Pryor, Okla., was charged in a five-count indictment returned by
a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
September 16, 2003
Two more defendants plead guilty in Operation X-Posed
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Two more defendants pleaded guilty
in federal court to two separate indictments resulting from Operation
X-Posed, an investigation into ecstasy, cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking
in Greene County..
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the News Release
September 16, 2003
Branson man pleads guilty to meth conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Branson, Mo., man pleaded guilty
in federal court to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in Taney
County. Sean L. Davis, 28, Branson, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Richard E. Dorr on Sept. 15, 2003, to conspiracy to distriute 500
grams or more of methamphetamine.
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the News Release
September 16, 2003
Thayer, Mo., felon pleads guilty to illegal possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A
Thayer, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court today to being a felon
in possession of a firearm. Timothy Jacobs, 35, of
Thayer, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr
this morning to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
September 16, 2003
Grand jury indicts four individuals in cocaine
conspiracy
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Four defendants from Springfield and
Kansas City were indicted by a federal grand jury for conspiring to distribute
500 grams or more of cocaine. Vaughn Wattree, 38, of Kansas City, Mo.,
and Wilberforce A. Cousins, 30, Brandon K. Scott, 27, and Misty D. Russell,
22, all of Springfield, were charged in a nine-count indictment returned
under seal by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield on Sept. 12,
2003. The indictment was unsealed and made public upon the arrest and
initial court appearance of the defendants.
Read the News Release
September 12, 2003
Holt woman charged with Lathrop bank robbery
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Holt, Mo., woman was charged in federal
court today with robbing the Lathrop Bank on Sept. 11, 2003. Evelyn Louise
Ranes, 49, of Holt, Mo., was charged with stealing approximately $3,922
from Lathrop Bank in Lathrop, Mo., according to the criminal complaint
filed in U.S. Distict Court in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
September 12, 2003
Niangua man pleads guilty to drug, firearm charge
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Niangua, Mo., man pleaded guilty
today to being a drug user in possession of firearms. David L. Robinson,
49, of Niangua, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge James
C. England this morning to being a drug user in possession of firearms.
Read the News Release
September 12, 2003
Grand jury indicts six felons for firearm violations
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Six felons were indicted, in separate
and unrelated cases, by a federal grand jury today for violating federal
firearms laws.
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September 12, 2003
Springfield man indicted for possession of several
drugs
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield man was indicted by a
federal grand jury today for possessing 500 grams or more of cocaine,
while also possessing marijuana, methamphetamine and an illegal firearm.
Travis Eastburn, 30, of Springfield, Mo., was charged in a seven-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read the News Release
September 11, 2003
Drugs, guns found at day care, three charged in
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three
Kansas City, Mo., residents were charged in federal court today with conspiracy
to distribute crack cocaine after law enforcement officers found drugs
and two loaded handguns at a home day care. Clifford
Dorsey, 43, Valeriece D. Ealom, 34, and Megashia C. Jackson, 27, all of
Kansas City, Mo., were charged with conspiracy to distribute five grams
or more of crack cocaine, according to the criminal complaint filed in
U.S. District Court in Kansas City.
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September 10, 2003
Two felons indicted for illegal possession of firearms
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Two felons were indicted by a federal
grand jury today for illegally possessing firearms.Kevin
P. McKinney, 41, and Brian Kelly, 38, of Harrison, Ark., were indicted
by a federal grand jury in Springfield for being felons in possession
of a firearms.
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September 10, 2003
Mexican national indicted for illegal re-entry
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Mexican national was indicted by
a federal grand jury today for illegally re-entering the United States
after having been previously deported. Martin Garcia-Lopez, 46, of Mexico,
was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Springfield.
Read the News Release
September 9, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The
case marks additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's
ongoing anti-crime initiative. Sylvester Wells, 48, of Kansas City, Mo.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning
to six years and three months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
September 9, 2003
Two former Liberty residents indicted for fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two former Liberty, Mo., residents
who operated a Northland construction company have been indicted by a
federal grand jury for a $231,203 fraud scheme that involved a bank construction
loan and a credit card account.
Read the News Release
September 8, 2003
Sullivan County man sentenced for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Sullivan County, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Graves
said the case, part of the district's ongoing Project Ceasefire anti-crime
initiative, is the result of the work of the NITRO task force. Jackie
Lee Sizemore, 40, of Green Castle, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to one year and nine months in federal
prison without parole.
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the News Release
September 8, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The case marks
additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime
initiative. Myron J. Toombs, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., was senteced by
U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to three years and 10
months in federal prison without parole.
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September 5, 2003
California man sentenced 20 years for role in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A California man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Federal law
enforcement agents seized nearly 11 kilograms of cocaine when they arrested
five co-defendants at a Northland apartment complex on Oct. 28, 2002.
Roger Salcedo, 30, of Inglewood, Calif., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Ortrie D. Smith to 20 years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
September 4, 2003
Pattonsburg felon sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Pattonsburg, Mo., man was sentenced today for
being a felon in possession of a firearm. Today's sentencing, Graves said,
is the result of work completed by the NITRO Task Force. Thomas F. Terry,
28, of Pattonsburg, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A.
Fenner this morning to one year and nine months in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
September 4, 2003
Three plead guilty to violating federal firearm laws
SPRINGFIELD - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that three defendants pleaded
guilty in federal court today, in separate and unrelated cases, to violating
federal firearms laws.
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the News Release
September 3, 2003
Virginia
McArtor presents the Enoch B. Morelock Award to Sgt. Jon Brady of the
Kansas City, Mo., Police Department's North Patrol Division. LECC Coordinator
Les Ker (right) also was present at the Law Enforcement Coordinating Committee's
annual seminar. McArtor is Enoch B. Morelock's great-great granddaughter.
Morelock was the first law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty
in the history of the Western District of Missouri.
Click here for high-resolution image.
U.S. Attorney presents new award to KCPD-North Patrol officer
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced the recipient of the Law Enforcement
Coordinating Committee's Enoch B. Morelock Award following the committee's
annual seminar last week in Branson, Mo.
Read the News Release
September 3, 2003
Former Strafford, Mo., mayor pleads guilty to $544,000 fraud
KANSAS CITY - The former mayor of Strafford, Mo., pleaded guilty
in federal court today to defrauding a group of investors of more than
$544,000. Alan Duane Baker, 48, of Strafford, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. Magistrate Judge James C. England this morning to wire fraud. Graves
explained that the charge involved a letter that was faxed to one of the
victims of Baker's fraud scheme, a resident of Florida, on Aug. 20, 1999.
Read the News Release
September 3, 2003
Federal jury convicts felon in possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was convicted by a federal
jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Xavier E. Holmes,
54, of Kansas City, was found guilty of one count of being a felon in
possession of a firearm by a federal jury in the U.S. District Court in
Kansas City.
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September 2, 2003
Arkansas woman pleads guilty to stealing another's identity
SPRINGFIELD - An Arkansas woman pleaded guilty in federal court
today to using a false Social Security number to steal the identity of
another woman. Terry Floy Sharon, 45, of Benton County, Ark., pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this afternoon to falsely
using a Social Security number that was not assigned to her by the Commissioner
of Social Security.
Read the News Release
August 29, 2003
Two charged with possession of 185 pounds of marijuana
KANSAS CITY - Two Mexican citizens were charged in federal
court today with possession of 50 kilograms or more of marijuana. Manuel
Arturo Pinon, 45, and Mario Arturo Gutierrez-Perez, 33, both of Mexico,
were charged this afternoon in a criminal complaint filed in U.S. District
Court in Kansas City.
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the News Release
August 29, 2003
St. Joseph man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A St. Joseph man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Graves said the case
is a result of the work of the NITRO task force. Robert White, 56, of
St. Joseph, was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this
morning to three years and one month in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
August 29, 2003
KC felon sentenced for violating federal firearm law
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City felon was sentenced in federal
court today for violating a federal firearms law. Chad Darty, 50, of Kansas
City, was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning
to five years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
August 28, 2003
KC man sentenced for distributing cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Kan., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine. Bobby
R. Leveringston, 26, of Kansas City, Kan., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to possession with intent
to distribute crack cocaine.
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the News Release
August 28, 2003
KC man sentenced for distributing cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced today for
his role in a conspiracy to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine
– which the government alleges was part of a larger, nationwide conspiracy
to smuggle drugs from Mexico into the United States for distribution in
the Kansas City, Mo., metropolitan area. Kerriem O. Wilson, also known
as "Woo-Soo," 31, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to six years and eight
months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
August 28, 2003
Blue Springs man sentenced for conspiring to distribute cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Blue Springs, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for conspiring with his brother to distribute cocaine. James
W. Noland, 25, of Blue Springs, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to two years and eight months in
federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
August 28, 2003
Four indicted for conspiracy to manufacture meth
KANSAS CITY - Four Columbia, Mo., residents have been indicted
by a federal grand jury in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute
methamphetamine in Boone County, Mo. Jeffrey Gayle Merritt, 35, Chadwick
Wayne Acison, 27, Laurie Jean Loftus, 23, and Sharon L. Baker, 53, all
of Columbia, were charged in a seven-count indictment returned under seal
by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City on Aug. 11, 2003. That indictment
was unsealed and made public upon the arrest and initial court appearance
of several co-defendants. Merritt's initial court appearance was held
today.
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the News Release
August 28, 2003
Three charged for robbing Breckenridge, Mo., bank
KANSAS CITY - Three defendants were charged in a criminal complaint
filed in federal court today for robbing a Breckenridge, Mo., bank. Kevin
Edward Schmidt, 20, his wife, Francesca Nicole Schmidt, 19, and Allison
Ren'e Hardin, 18, all of Cameron, Mo., were charged with robbing $1,942
from The Hamilton Bank, Breckenridge Branch on Aug. 27, 2003, in a criminal
complaint filed this morning in U.S. District Court in Kansas City.
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the News Release
August 28, 2003
Independence man sentenced for receiving child porn
KANSAS CITY - An Independence man was sentenced in federal
court today for receiving child pornography.Larry Dean Lamastres, 38,
of Independence, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J.
Gaitan, Jr., this morning to five years and 10 months in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
August 27, 2003
Jury convicts Independence man for role in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - An Independence, Mo. man has been convicted by
a federal jury for his role in a conspiracy with his brother to manufacture
methamphetamine at his home, by using a tank of anhydrous ammonia hidden
at a local park. Timothy W. Hines, also known as Peg Leg, 43, of Independence,
Mo., was found guilty on Aug. 26, 2003, of conspiracy to manufacture 50
grams or more of methamphetamine and of possession of pseudoephedrine
for the purpose of manufacturing methamphetamine.
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the News Release
August 27, 2003
U.S. Attorney's Office convicts 400th felon in possession
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced the 400th conviction under Project
Ceasefire today as three men pleaded guilty, in separate and unrelated
cases, to being felons illegally in possession of a firearm, ammunition
and body armor.
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the News Release
August 26, 2003
Willard, Mo., felon sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
SPRINGFIELD - A Willard, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Mark Anderson,
44, of Willard, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
this morning to two years in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
Pictured
from left are Special Agent Doug Fencl, with the Federal Bureau of Investigations,
Sharon Hutsler, paralegal for the Organized Crime Strike Force in the
U.S. Attorney's Office, Bruce E. Clark, Assistant U.S. Attorney, Paul
S. Becker, Assistant U.S. Attorney and Chief of the Strike Force Unit
and Kansas City, Mo., Police Chief Richard Easley.
Click here for high-resolution image.
August 26, 2003
U.S. Attorney's Office recognized for work on robbery case
KANSAS CITY - The Chief of the Organized Crime Strike Force,
an Assistant U.S. Attorney and a paralegal from the U.S. Attorney's Office
were recognized by the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department for their work
on a case involving more than 30 robberies in the area. Paul S. Becker,
Assistant U.S. Attorney and Chief of the Organized Crime Strike Force,
Bruce E. Clark, Assistant U.S. Attorney in the Organized Crime Strike
Force, and Sharon Hutsler, paralegal in the Strike Force Unit, were each
presented a certificate of appreciation by Kansas City Police Chief Richard
Easley this morning at the Kansas City Police Department.
Read
the News Release
August 25, 2003
Joplin man sentenced for illegal possession of
firearm
SPRINGFIELD - A Joplin, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm and being an unlawful
user of a controlled substance. Larry B. Painter, 42, of Joplin, was sentenced
by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to 15 years in
federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
August 22, 2003
Overland Park husband, wife plead guilty in federal
court
KANSAS CITY - An Overland Park, Kan., woman pleaded guilty
today to embezzling about $2 million from her employer and her husband
pleaded guilty to money laundering. Tamie J. Gordon, 42, and Ronald E.
Gordon, 38, both of Overland Park, Kan., pleaded guilty in separate hearings
before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this afternoon to their involvement
in a embezzlement and money laundering scheme.
Read the News Release
August 22, 2003
Two Operation X-Posed defendants plead guilty
SPRINGFIELD - Two Springfield, Mo., men pleaded guilty in federal
court today to charges stemming from Operation X-Posed, an investigation
into ecstasy, cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking in Greene County,
Mo.
Read the News Release
August 21, 2003
16 felons indicted for illegal possession of firearms,
ammunition
KANSAS CITY - A 16 felons were indicted, in separate and unrelated
cases, by a federal grand jury today for violating federal firearms laws.
Today's indictments are part of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing
anti-crime initiative.
Read the News Release
August 21, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to burglarizing credit union
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty today
to burglarizing a federally insured credit union and removing its cash
vault, which contained $164,473. James A. Yokum, 33, of Kansas City, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning
to burglarizing United Consumers Credit Union, located at 551 Cambridge
in Kansas City, and removing its cash vault, on Sept. 13, 2002.
Read the News Release
August 21, 2003
One felon sentenced, two more plead guilty to firearms
violation
KANSAS CITY - One felon was sentenced and two more pleaded
guilty, in separate and unrelated cases, today for violating federal firearms
laws.
Read the News Release
August 21, 2003
Cabool, Mo., man sentenced for illegal possession
of firear bomb
KANSAS CITY - A Kenyan woman was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for hacking into an account at a Kansas City, Mo., bank in
order to steal more than $31,000. Anne Marie Nyanjau Kamuyu, 28, of Omaha,
Neb., a citizen of Kenya, was charged in a 15-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
Read the News
Release
August 20, 2003
Kenyan woman indicted for hacking bank account
KANSAS CITY - A Kenyan woman was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for hacking into an account at a Kansas City, Mo., bank in
order to steal more than $31,000. Anne Marie Nyanjau Kamuyu, 28, of Omaha,
Neb., a citizen of Kenya, was charged in a 15-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
August 20, 2003
KC, Overland Park men indicted for distributing
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man and Overland Park, Kan., man
were indicted by a federal grand jury today for conspiring to distribute
500 grams or more of cocaine. Miguel A. Lomera, 28, of Kansas City, Mo.,
and Hilario Jacobo-Bejar, 33, of Overland Park, Kan., were charged in
a four-count indictment returned today by a federal grand jury meeting
in Kansas City.
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the News Release
August 20, 2003
KC man indicted for conspiring to distribute crack
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for conspiring to distribute crack cocaine. Rashad Hassan Fonville,
24, of Kansas City, Mo., also known as "Little Ray," was charged
in a five-count indictment returned today by a federal grand jury meeting
in Kansas City.
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the News Release
August 20, 2003
Final co-defendant sentenced in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - An eighth and final defendant was sentenced in
federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine.
Bryan Barnett, 34, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to 10 years and 10 months
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
August 20, 2003
Worker at KCI Airport pleads guilty to falsifying
information
KANSAS CITY - An employee contracted to work at Kansas City
International Airport pleaded guilty in federal court today to making
false statements on his criminal history records check. Today's conviction
is the result of an Anti-Terrorism Task Force project called Operation
Tarmac.
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the News Release
August 20, 2003
KC man sentenced in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine in Jackson
County, Mo. Roger Simms, 58, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to five years and 10 months
in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
August 19, 2003
Defendant indicted for robbing four metro banks
KANSAS CITY - A defendant was indicted by a federal grand jury
today for robbing four banks in the Kansas City area. John D. Bratton,
33, who has no permanent address, was charged in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City, for robbing banks in Gladstone,
Kansas City, North Kansas City, and Independence, Mo.
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August 19, 2003
Former paramedic indicted for diluting ambulance
painkillers
KANSAS CITY - A former paramedic who worked for several Northland
ambulance services was indicted by a federal grand jury today for diluting
pain-relieving drugs supplied to an ambulance service in Pleasant Valley,
Mo. Craig J. Starr, 39, of Liberty, Mo., was charged in a 10-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City. Starr formerly worked
as a paramedic for ambulance services in Pleasant Valley, Liberty and
Claycomo.
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August 19, 2003
Raytown woman indicted for illegal possession of
ammunition
KANSAS CITY - A Raytown, Mo., woman was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for illegal possession of ammunition. Eva J. Long, 34,
of Raytown, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Kansas City for
being a felon in possession of ammunition.
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the News Release
August 19, 2003
Two KC felons sentenced for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY - Two Kansas City felons were sentenced, in separate
and unrelated cases, in federal court today for illegally possessing a
firearm. The cases mark additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the
district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
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the News Release
August 19, 2003
KC man sentenced in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Federal law
enforcement agents seized nearly 11 kilograms of cocaine when they arrested
five co-defendants at a Northland apartment complex on Oct. 28, 2002.
Armando Urrueta, also known as Aron Garcia-Martinez, 32, of Kansas City,
Mo., a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie
D. Smith this morning to 10 years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
August 18, 2003
Two defendants sentenced in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Two co-defendants, one from New York and one
from Colorado, were sentenced in federal court today for their role in
a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Federal law enforcement agents seized
nearly 11 kilograms of cocaine when they arrested five co-defendants at
a Northland apartment complex on Oct. 28, 2002. Luis Fernando Lopez, 42,
of Bronx, New York, a citizen of Ecuador, was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to 10 years in federal prison without
parole. Sergio Ramos-Munoz, 30, of Denver, Colo., a citizen of Mexico,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to seven
years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Ramos-Munoz
to forfeit to the United States a 2002 Ford F-150 truck that was used
to facilitate the distribution of cocaine.
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the News Release
August 18, 2003
Marshall, Mo., man sentenced for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Marshall, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of firearms. Alvin K. Parks,
44, of Marshall, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean
Whipple this morning to four years and nine months in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
August 15, 2003
Mexican national sentenced for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Mexican resident living in Kansas City was
sentenced in federal court today for illegally possessing a firearm. Guadalupe
Longoria-Paez, 32, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning to one year and three months in federal
prison without parole.
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the News Release
August 15, 2003
MAN INDICTED FOR PRETENDING TO BE IRS OFFICER
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield, Mo., man has been indicted by
a federal grand jury for pretending to be an employee of the Internal
Revenue Service. David E. Dawson, 46, of Springfield, Mo., was charged
in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting on Aug. 14,
2003, in Springfield.
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the News Release
August 15, 2003
GRAND JURY INDICTS FIVE ILLEGAL ALIENS
SPRINGFIELD - Five illegal aliens have been indicted by a federal
grand jury, in separate and unrelated cases, for violating United States
immigration laws.
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the News Release
August 14, 2003
Bookkeeper pleads guilty to forging checks totaling
$609,995
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City woman pleaded guilty in federal
court today to forging checks drawn on her employers' bank accounts. Kathleen
M. Hayes, 44, of Independence, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to forging her employer's signature
on company checks in order to obtain more than $609,995.71.
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the News Release
August 14, 2003
Springfield felon indicted for illegal possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. David Ritchie,
40, of Springfield, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned by a federal
grand jury meeting today in Springfield..
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the News Release
August 14, 2003
Missouri felon indicted for firearm violation
KANSAS CITY - A Missouri man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Lester Bradley
Thompson, 43, of Mt. Grove, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting today in Springfield.
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the News Release
August 14, 2003
Ash Grove man indicted for possession of explosive,
firearm
KANSAS CITY - An Ash Grove, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for being a felon in possession of an explosive, firearm
and ammunition. Scott Maslar, 31, of Ash Grove, Mo., was charged in a
three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting today
in Springfield.
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the News Release
August 14, 2003
KCK man sentenced for possession, intent to distribute
meth
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Kan., man was sentenced in federal
court today for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Angelo A. Campos, 23, of Kansas City, Kan., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to five years and 10 months in federal
prison without parole.
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the News Release
August 13, 2003
Springfield prisoner indicted for escaping
SPRINGFIELD - A Carthage, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Douglas
M. Gollhofer, 31, of Carthage, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting today in Springfield.
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August 13, 2003
Carthage felon indicted for illegal possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for stealing more than $27,000 worth of motor vehicle products.
Kenny R. Borders, 33, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to five months in federal prison
without parole, plus three months of home detention following his release.
Read the News Release
August 13, 2003
Joplin man indicted for counterfeiting $20 bill
SPRINGFIELD - A Joplin, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for counterfeiting a $20 federal reserve note. Patrick
M. Connelly, 53, of Joplin, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read the News Release
August 13, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to bank robbery
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to robbing a bank in Raytown, Mo. Troy A. Taylor, 32, of Kansas
City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this
morning to robbing the Bank of America, located at 10100 East 350 Highway
in Raytown, Mo.
Read the News Release
August 12, 2003
Mexican citizen sentenced for transporting illegal
aliens
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for stealing more than $27,000 worth of motor vehicle products.
Kenny R. Borders, 33, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to five months in federal prison
without parole, plus three months of home detention following his release.
Read the News Release
August 12, 2003
Mexican citizen sentenced for transporting illegal
aliens
KANSAS CITY - A Mexican citizen was sentenced in federal court
today for transporting illegal aliens within the United States. The sentencing
follows a fatal accident on Interstate 44 near Joplin, Mo., on Feb. 12,
2003, in which two Mexican citizens were killed and 10 more were taken
to local hospitals with injuries.
Read the News Release
August 11, 2003
KC felon sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Jewell D. Saunders, 24, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to two years and six months in federal
prison without parole.
Read the News Release
August 11, 2003
Career offender sentenced 15 years for possessing
firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Damon E. Hawkins, 30, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning as an armed career offender to 15 years
in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
August 11, 2003
Smithville woman pleads guilty to $260,000 check
fraud
KANSAS CITY - A Smithville, Mo., woman pleaded guilty today
to illegally issuing more than $260,000 worth of checks drawn upon an
Illinois bank, then depositing those checks into her personal bank account.
Patricia Lee Hubbard, 47, of Smithville, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to interstate transportation
of stolen property.
Read the News Release
August 8, 2003
Jonesburg man sentenced for distributing marijuana
JEFFERSON CITY - A Jonesburg, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for distributing hundreds of pounds of marijuana in central
Missouri and Arizona. William A. Sanders, 57, of Jonesburg, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to three years
and one month in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered
Sanders to pay a $10,000 fine and to forfeit to the United States $195,540
that was seized at the time of his arrest.
Read the News Release
August 8, 2003
Columbia man sentenced for distributing crack cocaine
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia, Mo., was sentenced in federal
court today for distributing crack cocaine in Boone County. Donald Ray
Wallace, 36, of Columbia, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey this morning to nine years and two months in federal prison
without parole.
Read the News Release
August 8, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for illegally possessing a firearm. Charles H. Shirley, 25,
of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J.
Gaitan, Jr., this morning to five years and four months in federal prison
without parole.
Read the News Release
August 7, 2003
KC man sentenced to 25 years
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas
City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today after being convicted
by a federal jury today of charges related to the distribution of crack
cocaine and illegal possession of a firearm. Thomas
R. Fuller, 30, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Gary A. Fenner this afternoon to 25 years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
August 7, 2003
Seventh defendant sentenced in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Novinger, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today, the last of seven northern Missouri residents indicted for
conspiring to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine. Jerry E. Hilderman,
39, of Novinger, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith
this afternoon to 14 years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
August 1, 2003
Brother sentenced in robbery conspiracy with former
cop
KANSAS CITY - A Lee's Summit man was sentenced in federal court
today for conspiring with his brother, a former Independence police officer,
to rob two undercover FBI agents who were posing as couriers of drug money.
Scott A. McGarr, 42, of Lee's Summit, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Howard F. Sachs this morning to one year and 11 months in federal prison
without parole.
Read the News Release
August 1, 2003
Don't be a victim: Public invited to forum
KANSAS CITY - The public is invited to attend a free forum
on identity theft, which has been called the fastest-growing crime in
America.
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the News Release
August 1, 2003
Jury convicts armed career criminal for possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD - A Greene County, Mo. man, was convicted by a
federal jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jessie
J. Sprouse, 33, of Springfield, Mo., was found guilty today of being a
felon in possession of a firearm on Aug. 29, 2002.
Read the News Release
August 1, 2003
Columbia, Mo., man pleads guilty to distributing
crack
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to distributing crack cocaine. Bohannon Thompson, 27, of Columbia,
Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this
morning to distributing crack cocaine in Columbia.
Read the News Release
August 1, 2003
Osage Beach resident pleads guilty to possession
of child porn
JEFFERSON CITY - An Osage Beach, Mo., man pleaded guilty in
federal court today to possession of child pornography. Larry H. Briesemeister,
58, of Osage Beach, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey to possession of computer files, disks and photographs containing
child pornography.
Read the News Release
August 1, 2003
Columbia, Mo., woman sentenced in cocaine conspiracy
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal
court today for her role in a scheme to distribute large quantities of
powder and crack cocaine and launder drug money in mid-Missouri since
1998. She is among 15 defendants indicted by a federal grand jury in a
conspiracy alleged to have brought more than 100 kilos of cocaine into
Columbia.
Read the News Release
July 31, 2003
KC man sentenced 30 years for involvement in cocaine
ring
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for distributing large quantities of cocaine in the Kansas City
area. Robert L. Abbott, 30, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to 30 years in federal
prison without parole. The court also ordered Abbott to pay a fine of
$131,500.
Read the News Release
July 31, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Michael L. Cooley, 31, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to one year and one day in federal
prison without parol.
Read the News Release
July 30, 2003
Two defendants plead guilty to federal meth, firearm
charges
KANSAS CITY - A St. Joseph, Mo., man and a Mound City, Mo.,
man pleaded guilty in federal court today to violating federal narcotics
and firearms laws. Larry A. Pierce, 47, of Mound City, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to possession
of anhydrous ammonia, knowing that it would be used to manufacture methamphetamine,
and being a felon in possession of a firearm. Harvey E. Smith, Jr., 26,
of St. Joseph, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey this morning to possession of anhydrous ammonia, knowing that
it would be used to manufacture methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
July 30, 2003
Holt, Mo., woman pleads guilty to embezzling from
bank
KANSAS CITY - A Holt, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal
court today to embezzling nearly $54,000 from Kearney Commercial Bank.
Sharon K. Cartwright, 52, of Holt, Mo., waived her right to a grand jury
indictment and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this morning to a federal information that charges her with one count
of bank embezzlement.
Read the News Release
July 30, 2003
Two Daviess County residents sentenced in meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Two Daviess County, Mo., residents were sentenced
in federal court today for conspiring to manufacture methamphetamine.
The sentences, Graves said, are the result of work completed by the NITRO
task force. Lisa R. Carnahan, 39, of Winston, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to seven years in federal
prison without parole. Marvin L. Archer, 32, of Gallatin, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to five years
in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
July 29, 2003
St. Joseph man sentenced on federal meth charges
KANSAS CITY - A St. Joseph man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine.
Mark E. Schenecker, 42, of St. Joseph, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to seven years and three months
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
July 29, 2003
First defendant sentenced for conspiring to manufacture
meth
KANSAS CITY - A Daviess County, Mo., resident was sentenced
in federal court today for conspiring to manufacture methamphetamine.
The sentence, Graves said, is the result of work completed by the NITRO
task force. Teresa A. Swigert, 44, of Winston, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to five years and 10 months
in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
July 28, 2003
Defendant sentenced for robbing Springfield bank
JEFFERSON CITY - A defendant was sentenced in federal court
today for robbing Great Southern Bank in Springfield. Larry Drew Jacques,
41, address unknown, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
this morning to 12 years and seven months in federal prison without parole.
The court also ordered Jacques to pay $1,335 in restitution to Great Southern
Bank and revoked his supervised release from a prior federal sentence.
The court sentenced Jacques to 16 months imprisonment for violating the
terms of his supervised released, to run concurrent with the sentence
for bank robbery.
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the News Release
July 28, 2003
Defendant sentenced for robbing Springfield bank
JEFFERSON CITY - Aa defendant was sentenced in federal court
today for robbing Great Southern Bank in Springfield. Larry Drew Jacques,
41, address unknown, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
this morning to 12 years and seven months in federal prison without parole.
The court also ordered Jacques to pay $1,335 in restitution to Great Southern
Bank and revoked his supervised release from a prior federal sentence.
The court sentenced Jacques to 16 months imprisonment for violating the
terms of his supervised released, to run concurrent with the sentence
for bank robbery.
Read
the News Release
July 28, 2003
Jury convicts KC man of federal firearms law
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was convicted by a federal
jury today of being a felon in possession of a firearm. This case marks
additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime
initiative. Anthony K. Anderson, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., was found guilty
of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
July 28, 2003
Fayette man sentenced for violating firearms, narcotics
laws
JEFFERSON CITY - A Fayette, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for possessing a sawed-off shotgun and being in possession
of methamphetamine. William Edward Jones III, 40, of Fayette, Mo., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to four
years and three months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
July 28, 2003
Columbia man pleads guilty to distributing cocaine
JEFFERSON CITY - A a man pleaded guilty in federal court today
to distributing crack cocaine. Carl Laverne Dudley, 42, of Columbia, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning
to distributing five grams or more of crack cocaine in Boone County, Mo.
Read
the News Release
July 28, 2003
Columbia man sentenced for identity theft
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia man was sentenced in federal court
today for identity theft and wire fraud. Bryan Daniel Sims, 30, of Columbia,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning
to two years and three months in federal prison without parol.
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the News Release
July 28, 2003
Mexican national sentenced for illegal re-entry
into United States
JEFFERSON CITY - A Mexican national was sentenced in federal
court today for illegally re-entering the United States. Alfonso Silerio-Nunez,
45, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning
to two years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
July 28, 2003
Columbia man sentenced for distributing cocaine
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia man was sentenced in federal court
today for distributing crack cocaine. Donald Edward Matthews, 49, of Columbia,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning
to three years and 10 months in federal prison without parol.
Read
the News Release
July 25, 2003
KC man sentenced for possession, intent to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack
cocaine. DeWayne K. Adams, 25, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to five years and 10 months in federal
prison without parole.
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the News Release
July 24, 2003
KC man arrested, indicted for insurance fraud
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man has been indicted by
a federal grand jury in a scheme to defraud insurance companies by falsely
reporting that vehicles were stolen. Wiled Mahdi Al-Aqaili, 38, of Kansas
City, Mo., was charged in a seven-count indictment returned under seal
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City on July 22, 2003. That indictment
was unsealed and made public today upon Al-Aqaili’s arrest and initial
court appearance.
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the News Release
July 24, 2003
Excelsior Springs man pleads guilty to possession
of stolen firearm
KANSAS CITY - An Excelsior Springs, Mo., man pleaded guilty
in federal court today to being in possession of a stolen firearm. Graves
said the case is the result of the work of the NITRO Task Force. NITRO,
the Northwest Missouri Team Response Operation, is a joint law enforcement
effort by the United States Attorney’s Office and federal, state
and local law enforcement agencies in the 16-county northwest Missouri
region. Joe P. Wright, 18, of Excelsior Springs, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to an indictment
that was returned by a federal grand jury on June 18, 2003.
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the News Release
July 24, 2003
KC woman charged with firearms violation following
high-speed pursuit
KANSAS CITY - The passenger of a vehicle that was involved
in a high-speed pursuit has been charged with violating federal firearms
law.Eva J. Long, 34, of Raytown, Mo., was charged with being a felon in
possession of ammunition in a complaint filed in U.S. District Court in
Kansas City on July 23, 2003.
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the News Release
July 24, 2003
Spickard felon sentenced for illegal possession
of firearms
KANSAS CITY - A Spickard, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The case marks
additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing
anti-crime initiative, and was investigated by the NITRO task force. David
E. Briegel, 49, of Spickard, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Gary A. Fenner this morning to two years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
July 24, 2003
Man pleads guilty to meth charges following police
chase
KANSAS CITY - A man pleaded guilty in federal court today to
possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.John Mark Gay, 41,
who has no permanent address, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Chief
Judge Dean Whipple this morning to possession with intent to distribute
five grams or more of methamphetamine.
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the News Release
July 23, 2003
Man charged with robbing Independence bank
KANSAS CITY - A man was charged in federal court today with
robbing a bank in Independence, Mo. John D. Bratton, 33, who has no permanent
address, was charged in a criminal complaint with taking by force and
violence approximately $1,240 from a bank teller at Union Bank, located
at 4340 South Noland Road in Independence, on July 22, 2003. The criminal
complaint was filed today in U.S. District Court in Kansas City.
Read
the News Release
July 23, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to role in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to his role in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute
methamphetamine. Michael D. Sanders, 43, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this afternoon to attempting
to manufacture methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
July 23, 2003
KC man sentenced for violating narcotics, firearms
laws
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for violating federal narcotics and firearms laws. Vershon M. Haywood,
33, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A.
Fenner this afternoon to 11 years and four months in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
July 23, 2003
Springfield man charged with violating gun, drug
laws
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield man was charged in federal court
today with violating federal firearm and drug laws. Ashley S. Joyner,
27, of Springfield, Mo., was charged in a three-count criminal complaint
filed today in U.S. District Court in Springfield.
Read the News Release
July 23, 2003
Independence man sentenced 12 years for illegal
firearm
KANSAS CITY - An Independence man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This case marks
additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime
initiative. Jeremy A. Guy, 21, of Independence, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner, this morning to 12 years in federal
prison without parole.
Read the News Release
July 23, 2003
KC man sentenced for being felon in possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Aaron J. Waddell, 32, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to three years and one month
in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
July 23, 2003
Eckland man sentenced for being felon in possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD - An Elkland, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Darrell L. Atkins,
49, of Elkland, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr
this morning to two years and one month in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
July 23, 2003
KC felon sentenced to 19 years for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Charles A. Woods, 42, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to 19 years and seven months in federal
prison without parole.
Read the News Release
July 22, 2003
Grand jury indicts five men for illegal possession
of firearms
KANSAS CITY - Five Kansas City area men were indicted by a
federal grand jury today, in separate and unrelated cases, for violating
a federal firearms law. Today's indictments mark additional progress under
Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Read
the News Release
July 22, 2003
KC man indicted for bank robbery
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for robbing a Raytown, Mo., bank. Troy A. Taylor, 31,
of Kansas City, Mo., was charged with robbing the Bank of America, 10100
East 350 Highway in Raytown, on July 11, 2003, in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read
the News Release
July 22, 2003
Higginsville father and son indicted on firearms
charges
KANSAS CITY - A father and son from Higginsville, Mo., were
indicted by a federal grand jury today in separate and unrelated cases.
William Earl Cox, 48, of Higginsville, Mo., was charged in a two-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City. William
Colby Cox, 19, of Higginsville, Mo., was charged with being in possession
of a sawed-off shotgun in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury
meeting in Kansas City.
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the News Release
July 22, 2003
Felon sentenced for firearm violation
KANSAS CITY - A defendant was sentenced in federal court today
for violating federal firearms law. Lewis Black, 46, was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to five years
in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
July 22, 2003
Warrensburg man sentenced for possession of pipe
bombs
KANSAS CITY - A Warrensburg, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for possessing two pipe bombs. Lawrence Wayne Logan, 24, of
Warrensburg, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan,
Jr., this morning to five years and 11 months in federal prison without
parole.
Read
the News Release
July 22, 2003
Three more plead guilty to meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Three more defendants have pleaded guilty to
their role in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine.
Darcy E. Harris, 38, of Stockton, Mo., and Tommy R. Smith, 28, of Sibley,
Mo., both pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this
afternoon.
Read
the News Release
July 22, 2003
Springfield man pleads guilty to involvement in
ecstacy ring
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to charges stemming from Operation X-Posed, an investigation into
ecstasy, cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking in Greene County.
Read
the News Release
July 21, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to conspiracy to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine. Frankie
D. Frencher, 21, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to conspiracy to distribute 50
grams or more of cocaine.
Read the News Release
July 21, 2003
Third of eight sentenced for conspiring to manufacture
meth
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City woman was sentenced in federal
court today for her role in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine
in Kansas City, Mo. Tina Dravenstott, 23, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to five years
in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
July 21, 2003
Four plead guilty to firearms charges
KANSAS CITY - Four defendants pleaded guilty, in separate and
unrelated cases, in federal court today to violating federal firearms
laws. These cases mark additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the
district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Read the News Release
July 14, 2003
Carl Junction man pleads guilty to possession of
child porn
SPRINGFIELD - The former supervisor of the Division of Child
Support Enforcement in the Joplin, Mo., office of the Missouri Department
of Social Services pleaded guilty in federal court today to possession
of child pornography. Wesley George Thorn, 45, of Carl Junction, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon
to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Oct. 1, 2002. Thorn
entered a "stand-up guilty plea," Graves said, meaning that
there was no written plea agreement. Graves added that the plea is conditional
upon the defendant's appeal of the court's suppression ruling.
Read the News Release
July 14, 2003
Area woman sentenced for credit card fraud
SPRINGFIELD - An area woman was sentenced in federal court
today for a fraud involving 15 unauthorized credit cards. Angel Marie
Starr, 38, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple this morning
to two years and nine months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
July 14, 2003
Dallas County man sentenced for possessing sawed-off
shotgun
SPRINGFIELD - A Dallas County, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for violating federal firearms law. Ralph Barnes, 47, of Dallas
County, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple this morning
to three years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
July 11, 2003
Defendant sentenced for stealing firearms
SPRINGFIELD - A defendant was sentenced in federal court today
for stealing firearms from Red Fox Motel and Tobacco Store in Lebanon,
Mo. Roger Mark Owens, 42, permanent address unknown, was sentenced by
U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to two years and nine
months in federal prison without parole. Owens also was ordered to pay
restitution in the amount of $1,262.
Read
the News Release
July 11, 2003
Jamaican citizen sentenced for illegal re-entry
into the U.S.
SPRINGFIELD - A Jamaican citizen was sentenced in federal court
today for illegally re-entering the United States. Everton Ugera Morrison,
30, of Jamaica, was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple
this morning to three years and five months in federal prison without
parole.
Read the News Release
July 11, 2003
Fulton man faces additional child porn, obscenity
charges
JEFFERSON CITY- A Fulton, Mo., man faces additional federal
charges for child pornography and obscenity. Jack Wayne Rogers, 58, of
Fulton, Mo., was charged in an 11-count superseding indictment returned
under seal by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City on June 20, 2003.
That superseding indictment, which replaces the original two-count indictment
returned on April 5, 2003, was unsealed by the court and made public today.
Read the News Release
July 11, 2003
Sedalia man indicted for violating federal firearms
law
JEFFERSON CITY- A Weableau, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today on an additional charge of being a felon in possession
of a firearm. Carl Robert Carter, 39, of Weableau, Mo., was charged in
a three-count superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury
meeting in Jefferson City. Today's indictment, Graves explained, adds
a third count and replaces the original two-count indictment that was
returned on April 30, 2003.
Read the News Release
July 11, 2003
Sedalia man indicted for violating federal firearms
law
JEFFERSON CITY- A Sedalia, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Shamakeith
Davis Taylor, 20, of Sedalia, Mo., was charged with being a felon in possession
of a firearm in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting
in Jefferson City.
Read the News Release
July 11, 2003
Jefferson City man indicted on cocaine charges
JEFFERSON CITY - A Jefferson City, Mo., man was indicted by
a federal grand jury today for possession and distribution of cocaine.
Thomas Breck Stratton, 29, of Jefferson City, Mo., was charged in a single-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Jefferson City.
Read the News Release
July 11, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to possession, intent to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack
cocaine. Jarrett D. Jackson, 20, of Kansas City, pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to possession
with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine.
Read the News Release
July 11, 2003
Belton man sentenced for violating federal firearms
law
KANSAS CITY - A Belton, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Keith A. Mansker, 29, of Belton, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Scott O. Wright to two years and three months in federal prison without
parole for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read the News Release
July 10, 2003
Grand jury indicts first felon for possessing body
armor
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal
court today to charges of personal and employment tax fraud. Dawn Marie
Goszewski, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to a two-count information.
Read the News Release
July 10, 2003
Grand jury indicts first felon for possessing body
armor
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for illegal possession of body armor and a firearm. The indictment
marks the first case in which a defendant will be prosecuted for illegal
possession of body armor in the Western District of Missouri. Turane Maddox,
24, of Kansas City, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand jury in Kansas
City for being a felon in possession of a firearm and a bullet-proof vest.
Read
the News Release
July 10, 2003
Three felons indicted for possession of firearms,
ammunition
KANSAS CITY - Three felons were indicted, in separate and unrelated
cases, by a federal grand jury today for violating federal firearms laws.
Today's indictments are part of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing
anti-crime initiative.
Read
the News Release
July 10, 2003
Four southern Missouri men indicted on firearms
violations
SPRINGFIELD - Four southern Missouri men were indicted by a
federal grand jury today in separate and unrelated cases for violating
federal firearms laws.
Read
the News Release
July 10, 2003
Warsaw man indicted for violating firearms, narcotics
laws
SPRINGFIELD - A Warsaw, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for violating federal firearms and narcotics laws. Stephen
E. Plummer, 45, of Warsaw, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
July 10, 2003
Springfield man indicted on federal firearms, narcotics
laws
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for violating federal firearms and narcotics laws. Paul
Humphrey, 42, of Springfield, Mo., was charged in a three-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
July 10, 2003
Springfield man indicted for attempted bank robbery
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for attempted bank robbery. Dustin Aaron Jolley, 20,
of Springfield, Mo., was charged in a single-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
July 10, 2003
Blue Eye man charged on federal tax violations
SPRINGFIELD - A Blue Eye, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today on federal tax evasion charges. Mark E. Welytok, 51,
of Blue Eye, Mo., was charged in three counts of an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
July 9, 2003
Computer forensics lab enhances focus on computer
crimes
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, participated in the grand opening ceremony
of the Heart of America Regional Computer Forensics Laboratory today.
"This laboratory brings the United States Attorney's Office one step
closer to being a national leader in the prosecution of computer crimes,"
Graves said, following the event.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
Read
the News Release
July 9, 2003
KC man indicted for conspiracy to distribute crack
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of crack
cocaine. Andre L. Quarles, 33, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a five-count
indictment returned today by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
July 9, 2003
KC woman indicted for Social Security fraud
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., woman was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for Social Security fraud. Fayetta E. Johnson, 51, of
Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment returned today
by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
July 9, 2003
Belton man indicted for possession, intent to distribute
meth
KANSAS CITY - A Belton, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
and illegal possession of a firearm. Douglas Ryan Caruthers, 19, of Belton,
Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment returned today by a federal
grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
July 9, 2003
Two KCK residents indicted in crack cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Two Kansas City, Kan., residents were indicted
by a federal grand jury today for conspiracy to possess and distribute
50 grams or more of crack cocaine. Jason Byers, 28, and Quasheana L. Bradley,
24, both of Kansas City, Kan., were charged in a three-count superseding
indictment returned today by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
July 9, 2003
Three men indicted in fraud schemes to sell damaged
vehicles
SPRINGFIELD - A Joplin man and two out-of-state owners of car
dealerships (including one in Reeds Spring, Mo.) were indicted by a federal
grand jury today in a fraud scheme to sell water-damaged vehicles to unsuspecting
customers. One of those defendants was also indicted in a salvage car
fraud scheme. Kenneth Wayne Elliot, 64, of Longwood, Florida; John L.
Graves, 54, of Joplin, Mo., and Randall Tullis, 41, of Little Rock, Ark.;
were charged in a 10-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury
this afternoon.
Read
the News Release
July 9, 2003
Two Mexican men indicted for illegal re-entry
SPRINGFIELD - Two Mexican men who have previously been deported
from the United States were indicted by a federal grand jury today on
separate and unrelated charges of illegally re-entering the United States.
Read
the News Release
July 9, 2003
Four southern men indicted for violating federal
gun laws
SPRINGFIELD - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that four southern Missouri men
were indicted by a federal grand jury today in separate and unrelated
charges of violating federal firearms laws.
Read
the News Release
July 8, 2003
Former Platte City man pleads guilty to child porn
KANSAS CITY - A former Platte City, Mo., man pleaded guilty
in federal court today to producing child pornography.Andy M. Deuninck,
40, formerly of Platte City, Mo., pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court
in Kansas City, Kan., to one count of an indictment returned by a federal
grand jury on Nov. 14, 2002.
Read the News Release
July 8, 2003
Two co-defendants sentenced in northern meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Two northern Missouri men have been sentenced
in federal court today for their roles in a conspiracy to manufacture
and distribute methamphetamine. Wayne J. Gregory, 41, of Worthington,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this afternoon
to 13 years in federal prison without parole. David L. Mullin, 22, of
Kirksville, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith
this afternoon to five years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
July 8, 2003
KCK man charged with possession, intent to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Kan., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or
more of cocaine. Eugene Bussey, 47, of Kansas City, Kan., was charged
in a two-count indictment returned today by a federal grand jury meeting
in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
July 8, 2003
Two men indicted for conspiring to distribute cocaine
KANSAS CITY - Two Kansas City, Mo., men were indicted by a
federal grand jury today for conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more
of cocaine. Robert H. Taylor, 30, and William L. Williams, 24, both of
Kansas City, Mo., were charged in a four-count indictment returned today
by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
July 8, 2003
KC man indicted for stealing $164,473 from credit
union
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for stealing $164,473 from a Kansas City credit union.
James A. Yokum, 33, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a federal indictment
returned today by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City. The federal
indictment alleges that Yokum attempted to commit felony larceny on Sept.
13, 2002, by stealing a cash dispenser from United Consumers Credit Union,
located at 551 Cambridge in Kansas City. The cash dispenser contained
approximately $164,473.
Read the News Release
July 8, 2003
KC man indicted for being felon in possession of
firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. John W.
Overcast, 33, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a federal indictment
returned today by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
July 3, 2003
KC felon sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of firearm. Today's sentencing is
part of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Donald F. Robinson, 27, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to nine years and two months in federal
prison without parole for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
July 2, 2003
Springfield felon pleads guilty to illegal possession
of firearm
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield, Mo., man pleaded guilty today
to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Quincy E. Loudermill, 23,
of Springfield, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr this morning to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read the News Release
July 1, 2003
Polsky brothers sentenced in federal fraud case
KANSAS CITY - Two former St. Joseph business owners were sentenced
in federal court today for defrauding company employees and lenders. Michael
S. Polsky, 43, former president of Polsky Motors, Inc., in St. Joseph,
Mo., and Gregory H. Polsky, 41, former vice president and used car manager
at Polsky Motors, were both sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando
J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to two years and nine months in federal prison
without parole. The Polsky brothers also were ordered to pay $990,494.68
full restitution to all victims involved in the fraud.
Read the News Release
July 1, 2003
KC woman sentenced for bank fraud
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., woman was sentenced in federal
court today for defrauding two banks by writing more than $150,000 in
fraudulent checks on her employer's bank accounts. Valerie Sharon Baker,
37, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F.
Sachs this afternoon to two years in federal prison without parole. The
court also ordered Baker to pay $143,270 in restitution. Graves added
that Baker already paid $14,229 in restitution prior to today's sentencing.
Read the News Release
July 1, 2003
Fourth co-defendant sentenced in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Greentop, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for his role in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute
methamphetamine. Martin L. Robbins, 28, of Greentop, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to four years and
three months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
July 1, 2003
Richmond, Mo., husband, wife plead guilty to meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A husband and wife from Richmond, Mo., pleaded
guilty in federal court today to charges related to a conspiracy to manufacture
and distribute methamphetamine. Graves said the case is the result of
an investigation conducted by the NITRO Task Force in Northwest Missouri.
Don A. Ogg, 44, and Patricia Ogg, 41, both of Richmond, Mo., pleaded guilty
in separate appearances before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner.
Read the News Release
July 1, 2003
Blue Springs man sentenced for cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - A Blue Springs, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for conspiring to distribute cocaine. Joseph L. Noland, 29,
of Blue Springs, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J.
Gaitan, Jr. this morning to five years and 10 months in federal prison
without parole.
Read
the News Release
July 1, 2003
Lee's Summit woman sentenced for defrauding employer
KANSAS CITY - A Lee's Summit woman was sentenced in federal
court today for defrauding her former employer. Rhonda D. Brewer, 47,
of Lee's Summit, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J.
Gaitan, Jr., this morning to two years and 11 months in federal prison
without parole. The court also ordered Brewer to pay full restitution
of $354,122.
Read the News Release
June 30, 2003
KC felon pleads guilty to possession of firearm
after shooting
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court to illegal possession of a firearm. The case is being prosecuted
under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Maurice B. Brown, 36, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to being a felon in possession
of a firearm.
Read the News Release
June 30, 2003
Texas man sentenced for conspiracy to distribute
marijuana
KANSAS CITY - An El Paso, Texas, man was sentenced in federal
court today for conspiracy to distribute marijuana. Martin Martinez, 39,
of El Paso, Texas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith
this morning to one year and one day in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
June 27, 2003
Blue Springs homebuilder sentenced for bank fraud
KANSAS CITY - A Blue Springs homebuilder was sentenced in federal
court today for a check-kiting scheme that cost a Liberty bank more than
$300,000. Darrell L. Saunchegraw, 56, of Blue Springs, was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to one year and six
months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Saunchegraw
to pay restitution of $319,612.48.
Read
the News Release
June 27, 2003
Cameron, Mo., pleads guilty to illegal possession
of 19 firearms
KANSAS CITY - A Cameron, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to being a felon in possession of 19 firearms. Graves said
the case, part of the district's ongoing Project Ceasefire anti-crime
initiative, is a result of the work of the NITRO task force. Rodney Lee
Webber, 37, of Cameron, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to being a felon in possession of a
firearm. Webber was initially charged with being a felon in possession
of a firearm in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on March
5, 2003, in Kansas City.
Read
the News Release
June 26, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to conspiracy to distribute
cocaine
SPRINGFIELD - A Mexican man was charged in federal court today
with illegally re-entering the United States. German Leyva-Chavez, 24,
of Mexico, was charged in a criminal complaint with being in Jasper County,
Mo., after previously being deported from the United States. The criminal
complaint was filed in Springfield, Mo.
Read the News Release
June 26, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to conspiracy to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine. Frankie
D. Frencher, 21, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to conspiracy to distribute 50
grams or more of cocaine.
Read the News Release
June 26, 2003
Kansas man pleads guilty to income tax evasion
KANSAS CITY - A Basehor, Kan., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to income tax evasion. Mark A. Fronce, 41, of Basehor, Kan.,
waived his right to a grand jury indictment and pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to a federal information
that charges him with one count of tax evasion.
Read the News Release
June 25, 2003
Raytown man pleads guilty to maintaining meth lab
in home
KANSAS CITY - A Raytown, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to maintaining a methamphetamine laboratory in his home. David
J. Hoerl, Jr., 38, of Raytown, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this afternoon to maintaining a place of residence
for the purpose of manufacturing, distributing and storing methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
June 25, 2003
Tyson pleads guilty to environmental violations
KANSAS CITY - Tyson Foods, Inc., pleaded guilty in federal
court today to violations of the Clean Water Act at its Sedalia, Mo.,
plant. Joining Graves in making the announcement were Thomas L. Sansonetti,
Assistant Attorney General, Environment and Natural Resources Division,
United States Department of Justice; and Missouri Attorney General Jay
Nixon.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
Read
the News Release
June 25, 2003
Jury convicts drug dealer for distributing crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man has been convicted by a federal
jury for distributing crack cocaine in Kansas City. David L. Willoughby,
31, of Kansas City, Mo., was found guilty on June 24, 2003, of distributing
crack cocaine on June 25, 2002.
Read the News Release
June 24, 2003
Project Ceasefire participants recognized for their contributions
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced today that several Project Ceasefire
participants received awards for their contributions to the gun-crime
initiative. The awards were presented this morning at the Project Safe
Neighborhoods meeting, which took place at the United States Attorney's
Office. The following individuals were recognized.
Maria Morreale, of the Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk's
Office, received an award for her contributions to the Project Ceasefire
initiative in Kansas City.
Click here for high-resolution
image.
Shelia Love, of the Jackson County Circuit Court Clerk's Office, received
an award for her contributions to the Project Ceasefire initiative in
Kansas City.
Click here for high-resolution
image.
Christine Mueten, an account executive for Valentine Radford and the Ceasefire
media campaign, received an award for her contributions to the Project
Ceasefire initiative in Kansas City.
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image.
Maj. Vince Ortega, with the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, received
an award for her contributions to the Project Ceasefire initiative in
Kansas City.
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image.
Capt. Cheryl Rose, with the Kansas City, Mo., Police Department, received
an award for her contributions to the Project Ceasefire initiative in
Kansas City.
Click here for high-resolution
image.
Liz Commino, with the Kansas City Police Department, received an award
for her contributions to the Project Ceasefire initiative in Kansas City.
Click here for high-resolution
image.
Mike Stuart, who is retired from the Kansas City Police Department, received
an award for her contributions to the Project Ceasefire initiative in
Kansas City.
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image.
June 24, 2003
Columbia man pleads guilty to passing $20 counterfeit bill
JEFFERSON CITY - A Columbia, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to passing a counterfeit $20 bill. Daniel Aaron Kinney, 22,
of Columbia, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K.
Laughrey this morning to an indictment that was returned by a federal
grand jury on Oct. 4, 2002.
Read the News Release
June 20, 2003
Three men sentenced in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Three men were sentenced in federal court today
for a conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine. Jason
S. Loney, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to 10 years in federal prison without
parole. Geoffrey A. Barker, 27, of Independence, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to nine years in
federal prison without parole. Gary L. Loveall, 26, of Kansas City, Mo.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning
to seven years and three months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
Pictured
from back left are Richard Cook, Kansas City Crime Commission; Darrell
Moore, Green County, Mo., prosecutor; Dave Lin, ATF; Dr. Alex Holsinger,
UMKC; Rudolph Rhodes, Asst. U.S. Attorney; Randy Roberts, ATF; Mark James,
ATF Special Agent in Charge; Paul Becker, Asst. U.S. Attorney; Todd P.
Graves, U.S. Attorney; John Ashcroft, U.S. Attorney General; Capt. Cheryl
Rose, KCPD; Rebecca Tillman, with the U.S. Attorney's Office; Jan Mulkey,
Valentine/Radford Advertising; and Dr. Kenneth Novak, UMKC.
Click here for high-resolution
image.
June 20, 2003
U.S. Attorney speaks at KCI Rotary Club meeting
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, attended the Kansas City International Airport
Rotary Club Meeting this week. Graves was invited as a guest speaker at
the event, which took place Wednesday, June 18, 2003, at the Ramada Inn
near KCI airport.
June 20, 2003
Daviess County man sentenced in NITRO firearms
case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A
Daviess County, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for being
a felon in possession of a firearm. Graves said, the sentencing is the
result of work conducted by the NITRO task force in Northwest Missouri.
William S. Perkins, 33, of McFall, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to four years and nine months
in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
June 20, 2003
Independence felon sentenced to 8 years for possessing
gun
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., man has been
sentenced today for being a felon in possession of firearm. Today's sentencing
is part of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Jamey J. Canaday, 29, of Independence, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to eight years and four months in federal
prison without parole for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
June 19, 2003
Three metro residents charged for 4-year meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. –
Three Blue Springs, Mo., defendants were charged with conspiring to manufacture
methamphetamine in a seven-count indictment, which was unsealed today
after being returned by federal grand jury on June 17, 2003. Jill S. Hanlin,
32, Douglas S. Hoffman, 31, and Michael D. Clemmons, 30, all of Blue Springs,
Mo., were charged in Count One of the federal indictment with conspiracy
to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine between Dec. 3, 1998, and
Dec. 15, 2002, in both Jackson County, Mo., and Cass County, Mo.
Read the News Release
June 19, 2003
Independence man sentenced for possessing 22 firearms
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An
Independence, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for possessing
a firearm during the term of a restraining order. David B. Harrington,
44, of Independence, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A.
Fenner this afternoon to four years and three months in federal prison
without parole.
Read the News Release
June 19, 2003
Parkville, Mo., man sentenced for bank robbery
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A
Parkville man was sentenced in federal court today for robbing a North
Kansas City bank. Shawn M. Simmer, 27, of Parkville, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to five years
and two months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
June 19, 2003
Habitual offender sentenced to 21 years for crack
cocaine crime
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A
Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today on crack cocaine
charges. Carlus L. Phillips, 33, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to 21 years in federal
prison without parole. The court's sentence, Graves added, reflects an
upward departure from the federal sentencing guidelines and is longer
due to Phillips' status as a habitual offender and his possession of a
firearm.
Read the News Release
June 17, 2003
Former bank employee indicted for embezzling
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A former
bank supervisor was indicted by a federal grand jury today for embezzling
more than $54,000 from Commerce Bank in Kansas City, Mo. Pamela M. Cato,
44, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a five-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City. Cato was formerly employed
by the bank as an evening shift supervisor.
Read the News Release
June 17, 2003
Springfield man pleads guilty in southwest Missouri
ecstasy ring
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney
for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Springfield man
pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges stemming from Operation
X-Posed, an investigation into ecstasy, cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking
in Greene County.
Read the News Release
June 17, 2003
Three KC residents indicted on drug, firearms charges
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Kansas City residents were indicted
by a federal grand jury today for conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
and illegal possession of firearms. Bobby Roberts, 29, Damon C. Shelby,
and Ian J. Walker, 23, all of Kansas City, Mo., were charged today in
a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
June 17, 2003
Mexican man sentenced in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican man was sentenced in federal
court today for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine. Jose Alfredo
Jiminez, 31, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Richard E. Dorr this morning to seven years in federal prison without
parole.
Read the News Release
June 17, 2003
Kentucky man pleads guilty to defrauding investors
of $3 million
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kentucky man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to participating in an investment scheme that defrauded 99
investors out of more than $3 million. Frank G. Dickey, Jr., 61, of Lexington,
Ken., waived his right to a grand jury and pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to a federal information
that charges him with participating in a conspiracy to defraud victims
of an investment scheme.
Read the News Release
June 17, 2003
Fifth and final co-defendant pleads guilty in metro
meth case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A fifth and final co-defendant has
pleaded guilty in a metropolitan methamphetamine case. John P. Long, 32,
of Independence, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A.
Fenner this morning to conspiracy to distribute in excess of 50 grams
of methamphetamine.
Read
the News Release
June 17, 2003
Forsythe, Mo., man pleads guilty to producing child
porn
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Forsythe, Mo., man pleaded guilty
in federal court today to producing child pornography. Danny Ray Lee,
Sr., 52, of Forsyth, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr this morning to a federal indictment that was returned by a grand
jury on April 4, 2003.
Read
the News Release
June 17, 2003
Ludlow, Mo., man pleads guilty to firearms charge
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Ludlow, Mo., man pleaded guilty today
to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Graves said the case is the
result of the work of the NITRO task force. Dwayne Lee Else, 37, of Ludlow,
Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this
morning to being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was charged in
a single-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on April 2,
2003, in Kansas City.
Read
the News Release
June 17, 2003
Two felons sentenced for possessing firearms, ammunition
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man and an Independence,
Mo., man have been sentenced, in separate and unrelated cases, for being
felons in possession of firearms and ammunition. Today's sentencings are
part of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Read the News Release
June 17, 2003
Sedalia, Mo., man pleads guilty to firearms charge
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Sedalia, Mo., man pleaded guilty
in federal court today to a federal firearms law violation. Kyle Eugene
Comfort, 35, of Sedalia, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge
Scott O. Wright this morning to illegal possession of a firearm. He was
charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Feb. 7, 2003,
in Jefferson City.
Read the News Release
June 12, 2003
Blue Springs man fourth to plead guilty in meth
case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A fourth defendant has pleaded guilty
in a metropolitan methamphetamine case. Rodney W. Schump, 49, of Blue
Springs, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner
this afternoon to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
June 12, 2003
Three men indicted in crack cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three men were indicted by a federal
grand jury today on charges related to a conspiracy to distribute crack
cocaine. Ravel J. Carney, 27, and Antonio A. Barreda, 23, both of Kansas
City, Mo., and Rafiel L. Carney, 27, of Grandview, Mo., were charged in
a nine-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas
City. Ravel and Rafiel Carney are twin brothers.
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the News Release
June 12, 2003
KC woman sentenced for theft of public money
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City woman was sentenced in
federal court today for illegally spending more than $9,000 from retirement
benefits deposited into the bank account of her deceased grandmother.
Donna M. Pierson, 59, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. Magistrate
Judge Robert E. Larsen this afternoon to three years of probation. The
court also ordered her to pay $9,018.58 in restitution.
Read
the News Release
June 12, 2003
Gladstone man sentenced for robbing Liberty bank
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Gladstone man was sentenced
in federal court today for robbing North Star Bank in Liberty, Mo. Daniel
E. Woods, 44, of Gladstone, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief
Judge Dean Whipple this morning to two years and nine months in federal
prison without parole. The court also ordered Woods to pay $19,800 in
restitution.
Read
the News Release
June 12, 2003
Sullivan County felon pleads guilty to firearm
violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Sullivan County, Mo., man pleaded
guilty in federal court today to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Graves said the case, part of the district's ongoing Project Ceasefire
anti-crime initiative, is the result of the work of the NITRO task force.
Jackie Lee Sizemore, 40, of Green Castle, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to being a felon in possession
of a firearm.
Read the News Release
June 12, 2003
Three KC felons sentenced for federal firearm violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Kansas City men have been sentenced,
in separate and unrelated cases, for being felons in possession of firearms
and ammunition. Today's sentencings are part of Project Ceasefire, the
district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Read
the News Release
June 11, 2003
KC man gets 25 years for possession, intent to
distribute crack
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was sentenced in
federal court today to 25 years in federal prison for possessing with
intent to distribute crack cocaine. Donnie E. Porter, 32, of Kansas City,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon
to 25 years in federal prison without parole. The judge referred to Porter
as a career criminal at his sentencing hearing.
Read the News Release
June 11, 2003
KC man sentenced in armed robberies at fast food
restaurants
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court today for a series of armed robberies at local fast food
restaurants. Johnnie W. Frazier, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr. this morning to 19 years
in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
June 11, 2003
St. Joseph man sentenced for stealing firearms
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A St. Joseph, Mo., man was sentenced
in federal court on charges stemming from the theft of several guns from
Hatfield's Sporting Goods, Inc., a federally licensed firearm dealer in
St. Joseph. Edward J. Bozarth, 40, of St. Joseph, was sentenced by U.S.
District Chief Judge Dean Whipple to three years and one month in federal
prison without parole. The court also ordered Bozarth to pay $2,700 in
restitution.
Read the News Release
June 11, 2003
Altamont, Mo., man sentenced for federal firearms
violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Altamont, Mo., man has been sentenced
for being a felon in possession of ammunition. Graves said the case, part
of the district's ongoing Project Ceasefire anti-crime initiative, is
the result of the work of the NITRO task force. Kelly D. Calhoon, 42,
of Altamont, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple
this morning to two years and three months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
June 11, 2003
Alleged drug user indicted for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., woman has been
indicted by a federal grand jury for being a drug user in possession of
a firearm. Lisa Caffey, 35, of Indepedence, Mo., was indicted by a federal
grand jury in Kansas City for being an unlawful user of a controlled substance
in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
June 11, 2003
Federal grand jury indicts felons in possession
of firearms
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Several felons were indicted, in separate
and unrelated cases, by a federal grand jury today for violating federal
firearms law. Today's indictments are part of Project Ceasefire, the district's
ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Read
the News Release
June 11, 2003
KC man gets 10 years for PCP conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was sentenced in
federal court today for conspiring to distribute 100 grams or more of
phencyclidine (PCP). Kenneth J. Dickson, 27, of Kansas City, Mo., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning
to 10 years in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
June 11, 2003
Joplin man pleads guilty to advertising child porn
for trade
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Joplin, Mo., man has pleaded guilty
in federal court to advertising to trade child pornography over the Internet.
John R. Farlow, 32, of Joplin, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate
Judge James C. England on Monday, June 9, 2003 to the charges contained
in a federal indictment that was returned on Oct. 9, 2002.
Read
the News Release
June 10, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to possession, intent to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man pleaded guilty today
in federal court to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more
of cocaine. David Eddie Taylor, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to possession
with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine. He was charged
in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Feb. 25, 2003, in
Kansas City.
Read
the News Release
June 10, 2003
Willow Springs man pleads guilty to possession
of meth, firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Willow Springs, Mo., man pleaded
guilty today to being an unlawful user of a controlled substance in illegal
possession of a firearm. Steven R. Shriver, 32, of Willow Springs, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge James C. England this afternoon
to two counts of an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on May
7, 2003, in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
June 10, 2003
Two more defendants plead guilty in Operation X-Posed
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two more defendants pleaded guilty
in federal court today in Operation X-Posed, an investigation into ecstasy,
cocaine and methamphetamine trafficking in Greene County. Operation X-Posed
was a long-term, multi-agency investigation into the distribution of tens
of thousands of ecstasy tablets throughout southwest Missouri, as well
as the Kansas City and St. Louis areas. “This was the largest ecstasy
ring ever prosecuted in southwest Missouri,” Graves said.
Read
the News Release
June 9, 2003
Felon sentenced 10 years for possessing firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man has been sentenced
for being a felon in possession of firearms. Today's sentencing is part
of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative. Gregory
L. McCall, 44, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge
Dean Whipple this morning to 10 years in federal prison without parole.
McCall was found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearms by
a federal jury in the U.S. District Court on Jan. 22, 2003.
Read
the News Release
June 6, 2003
Two men convicted in $20 million 'Miracle Cars'
scheme
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two California men were convicted by
a federal jury today for their role in the Miracle Cars scheme –
a nationwide conspiracy that stole more than $20 million from thousands
of victims, including some victims in the Kansas City area. James R. Nichols,
27, of Carson, Calif., and Robert Gomez, 28, of Long Beach, Calif., were
found guilty of all counts related to a conspiracy to defraud and money
laundering.
Audio
comments from U.S. Attorney Todd P. Graves for download (MP3
format)
Read
the News Release
June 6, 2003
Three KC felons plead guilty to federal law violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that three Kansas City, Mo., men
pleaded guilty, in separate and unrelated cases, in federal court today
for violating a federal firearms law. These cases mark additional progress
under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Read
the News Release
June 6, 2003
Second defendant pleads guilty in meth case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A second defendant pleaded guilty in federal court
today to aiding and abetting others in possessing methamphetamine precursor
chemicals. David J. Finney, 25, of Archie, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to aiding and
abetting others in possessing a large amount of ephedrine, knowing the
chemical would be used to manufacture methamphetamine. He was charged
with possessing the chemical in an indictment returned by a federal grand
jury on Feb. 26, 2003, in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
June 5, 2003
Associate circuit judge pleads guilty to bribery
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Associate Circuit Court Judge in
Sullivan County pleaded guilty in federal court today to soliciting a
bribe. Jeffrey D. Sayre, 37, of Milan, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury on April 3, 2003. Sayre has served as an associate
circuit court judge for the 9th Judicial Circuit in Sullivan County, Mo.,
since January 1999.
Audio
comments from U.S. Attorney Todd P. Graves for download (MP3
format)
Read
the News Release
June 4, 2003
Springfield man indicted on gun, drug charges
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that a Springfield, Mo., man was
indicted by a federal grand jury today on several firearm- and drug-related
charges. Elgin Humphrey, 28, of Springfield, Mo., was charged in a three-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
June 4, 2003
Five indicted for violating federal firearms law
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that five defendants were indicted
by a federal grand jury today in separate and unrelated cases of violating
federal firearms law. Jesse P. Blankenship, 19, of Marshfield, Mo., was
charged in a two-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting
in Springfield.
Read the News Release
June 4, 2003
Northern Missouri co-defenant sentenced for meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that a Novinger, Mo., woman was
sentenced in federal court today for her role in a conspiracy to manufacture
and distribute methamphetamine. Cherie L. Johns, 46, of Novinger, Mo.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to five
years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
June 4, 2003
Second co-defendant pleads guilty in crack case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that a Kansas City man pleaded
guilty in federal court today to conspiring to distribute crack cocaine.
George R. Britton, Jr., 30, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to conspiracy to distribute
crack cocaine.
Read the News Release
June 4, 2003
Detroit man indicted on marijuana charge
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney
for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Detroit, Michigan
man was indicted by a federal grand jury today for possession of marijuana
with intent to distribute. Stanley B. Eason, 40, of Detroit, Mich., was
charged with being in possession with intent to distribute 100 kilograms
or more of marijuana on April 1, 2003, in Greene County in an indictment
returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read the News Release
June 4, 2003
Defendant indicted for bank robbery
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that a defendant was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for robbing Great Southern Bank, at 1955
South Campbell Street in Springfield, on May 5, 2003. Ryan Lee Tyger,
28, address unknown, was charged with the bank robbery in an indictment
returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
June 4, 2003
Federal inmate indicted for possessing marijuana
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that an inmate at the federal
correctional facility in Springfield, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for possession of marijuana. Mark Antoine Wynn, 33, an inmate
at the U.S. Medical Center for Federal Prisoners in Springfield, Mo.,
was charged being in possession of marijuana, a prohibited object, on
Dec. 16, 2002, in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting
in Springfield.
Read the News Release
June 4, 2003
Former attorney indicted for failing to appear
for trial
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney
for the Western District of Missouri, announced that a former attorney
was indicted by a federal grand jury today for failing to appear at his
trial to face federal charges on Oct. 28, 2002. Gary A. Love, 54, formerly
of Ozark, Mo., was charged with failing to appear for trial in an indictment
returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield.
Read the News Release
June 4, 2003
Four mexican nationals indicted
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that four Mexican nationals were
indicted by a federal grand jury today in separate and unrelated cases
of violating United States immigration and false identification laws.
Read
the News Release
June 3, 2003
Fugitive nabbed, pleads guilty after nearly 10
years on the run
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A fugitive of almost 10 years pleaded
guilty in federal court today to drug-related money laundering charges
originally filed in 1994. Benjamin Boorem, 51, whose last known address
was in Golden, Colo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie
D. Smith this morning to a money laundering charge, which was originally
filed in federal court on Aug. 4, 1994, in Kansas City.
Audio
comments from U.S. Attorney Todd P. Graves for download (MP3
format)
Read
the News Release
June 3, 2003
Local business owner sentenced for fraud by credit
cards
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield business owner was sentenced
in federal court today for a fraud scheme in which he stole the identities
of other persons in order to obtain more than $24,000 from unauthorized
credit cards. Terry M. Heitman, 44, of Springfield, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to three years and
10 months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Heitman
to pay $24,438.60 in restitution. Heitman owns and operates The Classy
Dame women's dress shop in Springfield.
Read
the News Release
May 30, 2003
Former CEO of Black Economic Union pleads guilty
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The former president and CEO of the
Black Economic Union pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges
of public corruption.Sylvester Lee Holmes, 50, of Kansas City, Mo., waived
his right to a grand jury indictment and pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to a federal information that charges
him with two counts of theft from programs involving federal funds.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
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the News Release
May 30, 2003
KC felon sentenced to maximum 10 years for possessing
firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for violating a federal firearms law. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
John Jeffrey Davis, 42, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to 10 years in federal prison without
parole, which Graves said was the maximum sentence provided under federal
guidelines.
Read the News Release
May 30, 2003
Nebraska man pleads guilty to distribution of marijuana
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Omaha, Neb., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to conspiracy to distribute 1,000 kilograms or more of marijuana.
Darris L. Johnson, 34, of Omaha, Neb., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this afternoon to conspiracy to distribute 1,000
kilograms or more of marijuana between Jan. 1, 1997, and Oct. 2, 2002.
Read the News Release
May 30, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to possession of stolen firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to possession of a stolen firearm. James C. Hernandez, 23,
of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A.
Fenner this morning to possessing a stolen firearm on June 17, 2002. By
pleading guilty, Hernandez admitted that he was in possession of a Ruger
.22 caliber pistol, knowing that the firearm was stolen.
Read the News Release
May 30, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to firearms charge
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Myron J. Toombs,
22, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary
A. Fenner this afternoon to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read the News Release
May 30, 2003
Jury convicts KC man for possessing ammunition
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was convicted by a federal
jury today for violating a federal firearms law. Phillip E. Boose, 21,
of Kansas City, was found guilty of being a felon in possession of ammunition
today by a jury in the U.S. District Court. Following Boose's trial, Graves
said, the jury deliberated about two hours before returning the guilty
verdict to U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs. The trial began Thursday,
May 29, 2003.
Read
the News Release
May 29, 2003
California man sentenced for Amtrak delivery of
ecstacy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A California man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute ecstasy across the country.
The investigation that led to the defendant's arrest was launched when
Kansas City police officers searched an Amtrak train in Kansas City. Ilan
Bronfman, 26, of California, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott
O. Wright this morning to six years and six months federal prison without
parole. Bronfman, who is a citizen of Israel, is also subject to deportation
following his prison term.
Read
the News Release
May 29, 2003
Final co-defendant convicted in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A California man was convicted by a federal jury
today in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Federal law enforcement agents
seized nearly 11 kilograms of cocaine when they arrested five co-defendants
at a Northland apartment complex on Oct. 28, 2002. Roger Salcedo, 30,
of Inglewood, Calif., was found guilty of conspiring to distribute five
kilograms or more of cocaine, which occurred on Oct. 28, 2002.
Read
the News Release
May 28, 2003
Career criminal sentenced for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Princeton, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. The sentence
marks the culmination of another case prosecuted under Project Ceasefire,
the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative. Steven L. Mills, 44, of
Princeton, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this
morning to eight years and four months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
May 28, 2003
Three Mexican nationals charged at Fort Leonard
Wood
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced that three Mexican nationals were
charged in federal court today for violating United States immigration
and false identification laws.
Read
the News Release
May 28, 2003
Independence, Mo., man pleads guilty to receiving
child porn
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to receiving child pornography. Larry Dean Lamastres, 43,
of Independence, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando
J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to an indictment returned by a federal grand
jury on April 1, 2003.
Read
the News Release
May 23, 2003
Two felons sentenced for firearm possession
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City, Mo., men were sentenced in federal
court today in separate and unrelated cases for being felons in possession
of a firearm. The sentences mark the culmination of two cases prosecuted
under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Read the News Release
May 23, 2003
Second Faucett man sentenced in St. Joseph marijuana
ring
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A second Faucett, Mo., man in as many days was
sentenced in federal court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute
marijuana in St. Joseph, Mo. Darrell L. Harris, Jr., 25, of Faucett, was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to 10
years in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
May 23, 2003
Sedalia, Mo., man indicted for possession of child
porn
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Sedalia, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for possession of child porn. Patrick E. Ross, 53, of
Sedalia, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment returned today by
a federal grand jury in Jefferson City.
Read the News Release
May 23, 2003
Northern Missouri co-defendant sentenced for meth
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Queen City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for his role in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute
methamphetamine. Edward W. Robbins, 52, of Queen City, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to four years and
nine months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
May 22, 2003
Faucett man sentenced for conspiracy to distribute
marijuana
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Faucett, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute marijuana in St.
Joseph, Mo. Gerry Taylor, 27, of Faucett, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning to five years and 10 months in federal
prison without parole.
Read the News Release
May 22, 2003
Belton, Mo., man sentenced for armed bank robbery
in Clinton
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Belton, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for the armed robbery of a bank in Clinton, Mo. Thomas Milton Gaugh,
61, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning
to seven years and six months in federal prison without parole. Graves
explained that the court sentenced Gaugh to two years and six months for
armed bank robbery and five years for use of a firearm in relation to
a crime of violence, with those sentences running consecutively, for the
total sentence of seven years and six months.
Read the News Release
May 22, 2003
Two felons sentenced for firearm possession
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A DeSoto, Mo., man and a Kansas City, Mo., were
sentenced in federal court today in separate and unrelated charges of
being a felon in possession of a firearm. This marks the culmination of
a case prosecuted under Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime
initiative.
Read the News Release
May 21, 2003
Jury convicts Quik Stop owners for distributing
meth ingredients
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The owners of two local convenience stores were
convicted by a federal jury today of conspiring to distribute large quantities
of an ingredient used to manufacture methamphetamine. Rady I. Sdoulam,
32, of Kansas City, Mo., and Eiad M. Musallet, 26, of Olathe, Kan., were
each found guilty of conspiring to distribute pseudoephedrine, having
reasonable cause to believe that it would be used to manufacture methamphetamine.
Sdoulam and Musallet were also each found guilty on separate counts of
distributing pseudoephedrine to an undercover officer, believing that
it would be used to manufacture methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
May 21, 2003
Second defendant sentenced for involvement in PCP
conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A second co-defendant was sentenced in federal
court today for conspiracy to distribute phencyclidine (PCP). George A.
Richardson, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Fernando J. Gaitan this morning to six years and three months in federal
prison without parole.
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the News Release
May 21, 2003
KC man sentenced for involvement in St. Joseph
marijuana ring
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute marijuana in St. Joseph,
Mo Phillip J. Calandra, 26, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning to four years in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
May 21, 2003
Northland man sentenced for robbing North Kansas
City bank
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Northland man was sentenced in federal court
today for robbing the Bank of Weston in North Kansas City. John D. Clutts,
41, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean
Whipple this afternoon to two years and three months in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
May 20, 2003
St. Joseph neighborhood designated official Weed
and Seed site
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. – The Mid-City Neighborhood of St. Joseph, Mo.,
has been designated an official Weed and Seed Site by the United States
Department of Justice's Executive Office for Weed and Seed. Operation
Weed and Seed is a program that aims to prevent, control and reduce violent
crime, drug abuse and gang activity in targeted high-crime neighborhoods
across the country. Weed and Seed sites range in size from several neighborhood
blocks to 15 square miles. St. Joseph's site is located between 12th and
22nd streets, from Mitchell to Frederick avenues.
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the News Release
May 20, 2003
Columbia, Mo., man pleads guilty to possession
of child porn
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Columbia, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to possession of child pornography. Larry Dale Baldwin, 52,
of Columbia, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
this morning to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Jefferson
City on Feb. 7, 2003.
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the News Release
May 20, 2003
Springfield, Mo., man charged with distributing
ecstasy
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was charged in federal
court today for distributing ecstasy. William J. Gilbert, 19, of Springfield,
Mo., was charged in a criminal complaint for distributing ecstacy on four
separate occasions between March 22, 2003, and May 6, 2003. Gilbert also
is charged with possession with intent to distribute ecstasy and illegally
possessing a loaded Smith & Wesson semi-automatic handgun on May 19,
2003.
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the News Release
May 16, 2003
Independence, Mo., man indicted for possessing
cyanide
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Independence, Mo., man has been indicted by
a federal grand jury for being in possession of potassium cyanide. According
to Graves, this marks first case ever prosecuted in the Western District
of Missouri under a federal statute that prohibits any person from possessing
chemical weapons. Hessam S. Ghane, 53, of Independence, Mo., was charged
in a single-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury
on May 15, 2003. That indictment was unsealed and made public today upon
Ghane's arrest and initial appearance in federal court. Ghane remains
in federal custody pending a detention hearing on May 20, 2003.
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the News Release
May 16, 2003
Mexican citizen pleads guilty to illegal re-entry
into the U.S.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Mexican citizen pleaded guilty in federal court
today to illegally re-entering the United States. Floriberto Martinez-Pacheco,
26, a citizen of Mexico, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr this morning to being found in Greene County, Mo., after having
been previously deported from the United States.
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the News Release
May 16, 2003
Columbia, Mo., woman pleads guilty to distributing
cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Columbia, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in federal
court today to distributing cocaine. Deidrea Lachelle Scott, also known
as Deidrea Lachelle Freelon, 33, of Columbia, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to distributing cocaine
on Oct. 17, 2000, in Boone County, Mo.
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the News Release
May 16, 2003
Second of seven guilty defendants sentenced for
making meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City woman was sentenced in federal
court today for her role in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine
in Kansas City, Mo. Wanda J. Wing, 31, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to five years
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
May 16, 2003
KC woman sentenced for distributing ecstasy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City woman was sentenced in federal
court today for conspiring to distribute ecstasy. Tri Thanh Thi Truong,
29, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D.
Smith to three years and one month in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
May 15, 2003
KC man fourth to plead guilty in marijuana conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Kan., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 100 kilograms
or more of marijuana. Pedro Linares, 39, of Kansas City, Kan., pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to conspiracy
to possess with intent to distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana
between Feb. 1, 2000, and Feb. 20, 2000.
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the News Release
May 15, 2003
KC man with 16 felonies indicted for possessing
firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for violating a federal firearms law. Today's indictment is
part of Project Ceasefire, the district's ongoing anti-crime initiative,
which has resulted in charges against 70 defendants so far this year.
Gregory K. Hunt, 49, of Kansas City, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand
jury in Kansas City for being a felon in possession of a firearm..
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May 15, 2003
Two defendants indicted for conspiring to distribute
marijuana
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Two Kansas City, Mo., defendants were indicted
by a federal grand jury today for conspiring to distribute marijuana.
Michael J. Timley, 32, and Lacey M. Gimlin, 19, both of Kansas City, Mo,
were indicted by a federal grand jury in Kansas City for conspiring to
distribute 100 kilograms or more of marijuana between Dec. 1, 2002, and
April 17, 2003.
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May 15, 2003
Hamilton, Mo., man indicted for conspiring to manufacture
meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Hamilton, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for conspiring to manufacture methamphetamine. Troy A.
Blackburn, 34, of Hamilton, Mo., was indicted by a federal grand jury
in Kansas City for conspiring to manufacture 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
May 15, 2003
Tennessee woman pleads guilty in 'Miracle Cars'
fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Tennessee woman pleaded guilty in federal court
today to her role in the Miracle Cars scheme. Gwendolyn Baker, 52, of
Memphis, Tenn., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this morning to both a federal indictment that was returned by a grand
jury on June 25, 2002, as well as a federal information filed today that
charges her with two counts of interstate transportation of property obtained
by fraud.
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May 15, 2003
Grandview, Mo., felon sentenced for possessing
firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Grandview, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. This marks the
culmination of a case prosecuted under Project Ceasefire, the district’s
ongoing anti-crime initiative. Lucas M. Fosberg, 21, of Grandview, Mo.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning
to four years and nine months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
May 14, 2003
KC man indicted for defrauding insurance companies
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for defrauding two insurance companies after his house
was damaged in a fire. Marcellous Adams, 38, of Kansas City, Mo., was
charged in a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting
in Kansas City.
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the News Release
May 14, 2003
Olathe, Kan., woman indicted for defrauding employer
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – An Olathe, Kan., woman was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for defrauding her employer of more than $600,000. Joyce
Lynne Smith, 60, of Olathe, Kan., was indicted by a federal grand jury
in Kansas City for defrauding her employer, Mid-Continent Specialists
Incorporated, a roofing and guttering company located in Kansas City,
Mo.
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the News Release
May 14, 2003
Five felons indicted for possessing firearms, ammunition
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Five defendants were indicted, in separate and
unrelated cases, by a federal grand jury today for violating federal firearms
laws. The cases mark additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the
district's ongoing anti-crime initiative.
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the News Release
May 2, 2003
Higginsville woman guilty of tax evasion, $1 million 'Miracle' scam
KANSAS CITY - A Higginsville, Mo., woman pleaded guilty in
federal court today to felony tax evasion in connection with nearly $1
million she earned in the Miracle Cars scheme. Corinne M. Conway, 62,
of Higginsville, Mo., waived her right to a grand jury indictment and
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning
to a federal information that charges her with one count of felony tax
evasion. Under the terms of today’s plea agreement, the United States
will dismiss the charges pending against Conway in a multiple-count indictment
related to a conspiracy to defraud.
Audio
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the News Release
May 2, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to importing ingredient of
'date rape' drug
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to importing gamma butyrolactone (GBL) with the intent to manufacture
gamma hydroxybutyric acid (GHB). Chad Holte, 30, of Kansas City, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning
to illegally importing GBL from Canada.
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the News Release
May 2, 2003
Three more Daviess County residents plead guilty
to meth charges
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three Daviess County, Mo., residents pleaded
guilty in federal court today to conspiring to manufacture methamphetamine.
The guilty pleas, Graves said, is the result of the work of the NITRO
task force. Teresa A. Swigert, 44, of Winston, Mo., Christie L. Phillips,
33, of Gallatin, Mo., and Billie L. Asher, 31, of Gallatin, pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to conspiring
to manufacture methamphetamine.
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the News Release
May 1, 2003
Two Daviess County, Mo., men plead guilty to federal
meth charges
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Daviess County, Mo., resident pleaded guilty
in federal court today for conspiring to manufacture methamphetamine.
The guilty plea, Graves said, is the result of the work of the NITRO task
force. James E. Hershberger, 25, of Gallatin, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to conspiring to
manufacture methamphetamine.
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the News Release
May 1, 2003
Fifth defendant sentenced in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The fifth of seven defendants was sentenced in
federal court today for conspiring to distribute crack cocaine. Lencorya
T. Grady, 28, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey this afternoon to seven years and 10 months in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
May 1, 2003
St. Joseph man sentenced for using residence as
meth lab
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A St. Joseph man was sentenced in federal court
today for allowing his home to be used as a place to manufacture methamphetamine.
Joseph B. Goin, Jr., 44, of St. Joseph, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey today to nine months in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
May 1, 2003
Weableau, Mo., man indicted on firearms, meth charges
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Weableau, Mo., man has been indicted by
a federal grand jury for being a felon in possession of a firearm and
attempting to manufacture methamphetamine. Carl Robert Carter, 39, of
Weableau, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment returned by a federal
grand jury meeting in Jefferson City on April 30, 2003.
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the News Release
May 1, 2003
Fulton, Mo., man indicted for child pornography
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Fulton, Mo., man has been indicted by a
federal grand jury for possession of child pornography. Mikel P. Sweeney,
32, of Fulton, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned by a federal
grand jury meeting in Jefferson City on April 30, 2003.
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the News Release
April 30, 2003
Federal jury convicts KC cocaine dealer
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was convicted by a federal
jury on April 29, 2003, for his role in a conspiracy to distribute 500
grams or more of cocaine. Dameon D. Williams, 31, of Kansas City, Mo.,
was found guilty at 4:30 p.m., of one count of possession with intent
to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine on Nov. 26, 2002.
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the News Release
April 30, 2003
Mexican citizen sentenced for illegally re-entering
the United States
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Mexican citizen was sentenced in federal
court today for being an illegal alien in the United States. Ignacio Vasquez-Lopez,
36, of Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this
morning to three years and five months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 30, 2003
KC man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law. The case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime
initiative. Larry K. Wren, 30, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to two years and three months
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 28, 2003
Savannah, Mo., man sentenced for illegal possession
of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Savannah, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for violating a federal firearms law. The case, part of the
Project Ceasefire initiative, is the result of work conducted by the NITRO
Task Force. Donald D. Carpenter, 33, of Savannah, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this afternoon to two years and seven
months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 25, 2003
KC man convicted of crack cocaine, firearms charges
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man was convicted by a federal
jury today of charges related to the distribution of crack cocaine and
illegal possession of a firearm. Thomas R. Fuller, 28, of Kansas City,
Mo., was found guilty on all five counts of a federal indictment. Fuller
was convicted of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine,
being in possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack
cocaine, being in possession with intent to distribute five grams or more
of crack cocaine, and two counts related to illegal possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
April 25, 2003
Belton man sentenced to 27 years in prison for
meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Belton, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal
court for his role in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine.
Christopher L. Warren, 25, of Belton, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey on April 24, 2003, to 27 years in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
April 25, 2003
Three defendants sentenced in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – Three defendants have been sentenced in federal
court for their role in a conspiracy to distribute crack and powder cocaine.
Jason L. Tuberville, 32, and Robert Martin, 32, both of Kansas City, Mo.,
were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey on April 24,
2003, to 10 years, 11 months in federal prison without parole. Jose Alvarado
Contreras, 33, of Kansas City, Kan., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Nanette K. Laughrey on April 24, 2003, to six years and six months in
federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 24, 2003
St. Joseph man sentenced for possession of machine
gun, grenade
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A St. Joseph man was sentenced in federal court
today for illegally possessing a machine gun, a grenade and a silencer.
Billy D. Hill, 50, of St. Joseph, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning to four years and nine months in
federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 23, 2003
Internet operator convicted of child pornography
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Georgia man who operated "teen modeling"
sites on the Internet was convicted in federal court today of producing
and transporting child pornography. Gary Lee Smith, 36, of Jefferson,
Georgia, was convicted in a bench trial before U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr. Smith, who waived his right to a jury at trial, was found guilty
of a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury on March
29, 2002.
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the News Release
April 21, 2003
Appeals court upholds conviction of KC man in 'Len
Bias' case for fatal cocaine overdose
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – The United States Court of Appeals for the Eighth
Circuit today upheld the conviction and 28-year sentence of a Kansas City
man who was sentenced last year for distributing cocaine that resulted
in a fatal overdose for a 20-year-old Prairie Village, Kan., woman in
May 2000. Derrick Bruce Smith, 35, of Kansas City, Mo., was convicted
by a federal jury on January 8, 2002, of one count of distribution of
cocaine resulting in death, and one count of possession with intent to
distribute cocaine. Evidence presented at trial, Graves said, showed that
in the early morning hours of May 18, 2000, Smith distributed cocaine,
and as a result of the use of the drug, Elizabeth Callison, 20, of Prairie
Village, Kansas, died.
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the News Release
April 18, 2003
Three plead guilty to conspiracy to distribute
marijuana
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – An Arizona woman and two Missouri men have
pleaded guilty to their role in a conspiracy to distribute hundreds of
pounds of marijuana. Gregory Paul Allen, 46, of Barnett, Mo., pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to
an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Aug. 23, 2002. William
A. Sanders, 56, of Jonesburg, Mo., and Angela R. Henry, 25, of Mesa, Arizona,
both pleaded guilty before Judge Laughrey on April 17, 2003.
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the News Release
April 18, 2003
Two defendants sentenced for violating federal
firearms laws
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two defendants were sentenced in federal court today
in separate and unrelated cases for violating federal firearms laws. The
cases mark additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s
ongoing anti-crime initiative.
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the News Release
April 18, 2003
Final of three defendants sentenced for distributing
marijuana
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The last of three defendants was sentenced in federal
court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute marijuana in Jackson
County, Mo.
Gary D. Holcomb, 41, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to four years and two months
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 18, 2003
KC man sentenced for stealing firearms from North
KC business
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal cour today
for stealing firearms. Frank A. Toth, 19, of Kansas City, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner to one year and one month in federal
prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 18, 2003
Another defendant sentenced in conspiracy to distribute
cocaine
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - Another defendant was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a scheme to distribute large quantities of powder
and crack cocaine and launder drug money in mid-Missouri since 1998. He
is among 15 defendants indicted by a federal grand jury in a conspiracy
alleged to have brought more than 100 kilos of cocaine into Columbia,
Mo.
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the News Release
April 17, 2003
Three defendants sentenced for violating federal
firearms laws
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Three defendants were sentenced in federal court today
in separate and unrelated cases for violating federal firearms laws. The
cases mark additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s
ongoing anti-crime initiative.
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the News Release
April 17, 2003
Rosendale, MO., man pleads guilty to federal firearms
violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Rosendale, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to being an unlawful user of a controlled substance illegally in
possession of a firearm. Graves said the case, part of the district’s
ongoing Project Ceasefire anti-crime initiative, is a result of the work
of the NITRO task force. Dana K. Clizer, 40, of Rosendale, Mo., pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to an indictment
returned by a Kansas City federal grand jury on Jan. 7, 2003.
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the News Release
April 17, 2003
Two KC men plead guilty to conspiracy to manufacture
meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two Kansas City men pleaded guilty in federal court
today to their role in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Richard
A. Stewart, 45, and William R. Barnett, 38, both of Kansas City, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr. this
morning to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Oct. 15,
2002. Graves noted that three more co-defendants in this case have also
pleaded guilty to their role in the conspiracy
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the News Release
April 17, 2003
Citizen of Mexico charged with transporting firve
illegal aliens
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A citizen of Mexico has been charged in federal court
for illegally transporting five illegal aliens within the United States.
Hermilo Estrada, 33, Mexico, is charged with transporting five Mexicans
who illegally entered the United States, according to the criminal complaint
filed in U.S. District Court in Springfield.
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the News Release
April 14, 2003
Court orders Fulton, Mo., man held without bond on child pornography indictment
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. – A Fulton, Mo., man will be detained
in federal custody without bond after being indicted for possession of
child pornography. Jack Wayne Rogers, 58, of Fulton, Mo., was indicted
by a federal grand jury in Jefferson City last week and subsequently arrested.
Rogers appeared before U.S. Magistrate Judge William A. Knox this morning
for arraignment and a detention hearing.
Audio
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the News Release
April 14, 2003
KC man sentenced for armed bank robbery
KANSAS CITY - A man, who lived in both Pittsburg, Kan., and
Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced in federal court today for the armed robbery
of Winterset State Bank.
Damon Beaman, 30, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan this morning to 17 years and six months in federal
prison without parole.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
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the News Release
April 14, 2003
Fayette, Mo., man pleads guilty to possession of
firearm, meth
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A Fayette, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and illegal
possession of a firearm. William Edward Jones, III, 40, of Fayette, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning
to two counts of a superseding indictment, which was returned by a federal
grand jury on Nov. 7, 2002 in Jefferson City.
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the News Release
April 14, 2003
California man pleads guilty to intent to distribute
cocaine
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A California man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to possession with intent to distribute almost 77 kilograms of cocaine
in Callaway County, Mo. Mario Alberto Bueno, 45, of Southgate, Calif.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning
to possession with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine.
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the News Release
April 11, 2003
Three defendants sentenced in area's largest seizure
of PCP
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Three co-defendants were sentenced in federal court
today on charges stemming from the 2001 seizure of more than 30 kilograms
of the hallucinogenic drug phencyclidine, also known as PCP, which was
one of the metropolitan area’s largest seizures of PCP.
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the News Release
April 11, 2003
KCI worker pleads guilty to using false Social
Security number
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A former employee of a firm contracted to work at Kansas
City International Airport pleaded guilty in federal court today to using
a false Social Security number for the purpose of obtaining employment.
Elvin Joel Hernandez, 33, address unknown, pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to an indictment that was
returned by a federal grand jury on Feb. 26, 2003
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the News Release
April 11, 2003
Lee's Summit woman sentenced for conspiring to
distribute meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Lee’s Summit woman was sentenced in federal
court today for conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Kimberly Keith, 39, of Lee’s Summit, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to 10 years in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
April 11, 2003
Belton man pleads guilty to federal firearms violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Belton, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to violating a federal firearms law. The case marks additional progress
under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Keith A. Mansker, 29, of Belton, Mo., pleaded guilty in federal court
before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright to being a felon in possession
of a firearm.
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the News Release
April 11, 2003
Texas man sentenced for intent to distribute marijuana
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Texas man was sentenced in federal court today for
possessing with an intent to distribute marijuana. Manuel Sanchez Ochoa,
62, of McAllen, Texas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner
this morning to five years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 11, 2003
U.S. Department of Justice awards local communities
grant money
WASHINGTON, D.C. - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the Western
District of Missouri, and the Department of Justice Office of Community
Oriented Policing Services (COPS) today announced grants totaling $20.5
million to allow 120 law enforcement agencies in 36 states to hire 180
additional officers and deputies to protect our nation's schools. The
city of Grandview, Mo., will be awarded an estimated $121,493 to employ
one additional officer to help protect its schools and the Polk County
Sheriff’s Department will be awarded an estimated $125,000 to employee
one additional officer to help protect its schools.
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the News Release
April 10, 2003
Jasper, Mo., man pleads guilty to federal firearms
vioation
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Jasper, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to violating federal firearms laws.Larry E. Boan, 40, of Jasper,
Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge James C. England this
afternoon to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Dec. 19,
2002.
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the News Release
April 10, 2003
Two Mexican men plead guilty to illegally transporting
aliens
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Two Mexican men pleaded guilty in federal court today
to illegally transporting aliens within the United States. Nery Lopez-Mendez,
25, and Rodrigo Mendez-Lopez, 33, both citizens of Mexico, pleaded guilty
before U.S. Magistrate Judge James C. England this afternoon to an indictment
returned by a federal grand jury on March 5, 2003.
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the News Release
April 10, 2003
Fulton, Mo., man arrested, indicted for possessing
child porn
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A Fulton, Mo., man was arrested today for possessing
child pornography. Jack Wayne Rogers, 58, of Fulton, Mo., was arrested
this morning following an indictment, which was returned under seal by
a federal grand jury on April 5, 2003, in Jefferson City. The indictment
was unsealed and made public upon Rogers’ initial appearance in
federal court this morning.
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the News Release
April 10, 2003
300th defendant sentenced for federal firearms
violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court today
for violating a federal firearms law. This case marks additional progress
under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime initiative,
which has now sentenced 300 defendants since its inception. Odell Hampton,
Jr., 26, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie
D. Smith this morning to 10 years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 10, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to conspiracy to distribute
cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
to a conspiracy to distribute powder cocaine. Thomas J. Murillo, 26, of
Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D.
Smith this morning to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on
Dec. 17, 2002.
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the News Release
April 10, 2003
Warrensburg man pleads guilty to possession of
pipe bombs
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Warrensburg, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to possessing two pipe bombs. Lawrence Wayne Logan, 23, of Warrensburg,
Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr.,
this morning to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Nov.
5, 2002.
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the News Release
April 10, 2003
Spickard, Mo., man pleads guilty to federal firearms
violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Spickard, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to being a felon in possession of firearms. Graves said the case,
part of the district’s ongoing Project Ceasefire anti-crime initiative,
is the result of the work of the NITRO task force. David E. Briegel, 49,
of Spickard, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner
this morning to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Jan.
28, 2003.
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the News Release
April 9, 2003
Mexican citizen pleads guilty to illegal re-entry
into the U.S.
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A citizen of Mexico pleaded guilty in federal court
today to being an illegal alien in the United States. Raul Hermosillo-Bezunartea,
32, of Mexico, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith
this morning to being an illegal alien who had been previously deported
from the United States following a previous felony conviction.
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the News Release
April 9, 2003
Woman sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City woman was sentenced in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law. This case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime
initiative. Verna I. Evilsizer, 44, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Ortrie D. Smith this morning to three years and one month in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
April 8, 2003
Former KCI airport worker pleads guilty to making
false statement
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A former employees of a firm contracted to work at
Kansas City International Airport pleaded guilty in federal court today
to making a false statement regarding his criminal history at the time
he applied for employment. Phillip Nelson Suddarth, 41, of Kansas City,
Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning
to one count of making a materially false and fraudulent statement when
he signed a Criminal History Records Check for the airport on May 23,
2002.
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the News Release
April 8, 2003
KC woman pleads guilty to theft of public money
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City woman pleaded guilty in federal court
today to illegally spending more than $9,000 from retirement benefits
deposited into the bank account of her deceased grandmother. Donna M.
Pierson, 59, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate
Judge Robert E. Larsen this morning to a federal information charging
her with the theft of public money.
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the News Release
April 7, 2003
16 defendants indicted in southwest Missouri's largest ecstasy ring
SPRINGFIELD - Sixteen defendants have been indicted by a federal
grand jury in an investigation into ecstasy, cocaine and methamphetamine
trafficking in Greene County. The indictments also charge some defendants
with distributing cocaine and methamphetamine, as well as money laundering
and firearms violations. The indictments seek the forfeiture of several
vehicles and nearly $400,000 in cash, all of which was allegedly derived
from illegal drug sales or used in the conspiracy to distribute illegal
drugs.
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the News Release
April 4, 2003
Forsyth, Mo., man indicted for creating child pornography
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Forsyth, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for creating and possessing child pornography. Danny Ray Lee,
Sr., 52, of Forsyth, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury, which met today in Springfield.
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the News Release
April 4, 2003
Neosho, Mo., man indicted on bank robbery charge
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Neosho, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for bank robbery. Dale C. Barkfelt, 24, of Neosho, was charged
in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury, which met today in
Springfield.
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the News Release
April 4, 2003
Willard, Mo., man indicted for motor vehicle scheme
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Willard, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for devising a scheme to fraudulently obtain six motor vehicles
valued at more than $280,097 from a motor home company. Glenn Benton Finck,
52, also known as Beau Dubois, of Willard, Mo., was charged in a seven-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury, which met today in Springfield.
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the News Release
April 4, 2003
Second defendant sentenced for Harrisonville bank
robbery
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A man was sentenced in federal court today for robbing
a Harrisonville, Mo., bank. Jermy Glen Cooper, 24, who currently is in
custody in Cass County, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie
D. Smith today to three years and one month in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
April 3, 2003
Judge indicted for bribery, conspiracy to obstruct justice
KANSAS CITY - An Associate Circuit Court Judge in Sullivan
County was indicted by a federal grand jury today for soliciting a bribe
and for conspiracy to obstruct justice by murdering a federal witness.
Jeffrey D. Sayre, 37, of Milan, Mo., was charged in a two-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City today. Sayre has served
as an associate circuit court judge for the 9th Judicial Circuit in Sullivan
County, Mo., since January 1999.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
Nevada man charged with cocained possession
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Nevada man was charged in federal court today for
possessing more than five kilograms of cocaine. Ramiro R. Urbina, 43,
of North Las Vegas, Nevada, is charged with possession with intent to
distribute in excess of five kilograms of cocaine, according to the criminal
complaint filed this afternoon in U.S. District Court in Springfield.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
First of six defendants sentenced for food stamp,
wire fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The first of six co-defendants guilty of food stamp
and wire fraud was sentenced today in federal court. Joseph P. Spino,
50, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs
this morning to two years in federal prison without parole. The court
also ordered Spino to forfeit $131,442.60 from the sale of his business,
which was used to commit food stamp and wire fraud. Spino also was ordered
to pay restitution in the amount $349,950.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
KCK man indicted for attempt to distribute 500
grams or more of cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Kan., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for attempting to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Ricardo Zamora-Gadino, 28, of Kansas City, Kan., was charged in a one-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury today in Kansas City.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
Illegal alien indicted for possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Mexican resident living in Kansas City was indicted
by a federal grand jury today for illegally possessing a firearm. Guadalupe
Longoria-Paez, 32, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a one-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
Three men indicted for distributing 500 grams or
more of cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Three defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury
today for their involvement in a Kansas City cocaine conspiracy. Each
of the defendants was charged in the four-count indictment returned by
a federal grand jury meeting today in Kansas City.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
Marshall, Mo., man indicted on firearms charge
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Marshall, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for being a felon in possession of firearms. Alvin K. Parks,
44, of Marshall, Mo., was charged in a single-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
Richmond, Mo., man indicted on firearms charge
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Richmond, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. David G.
Jones, 32, of Richmond, Mo., was charged in a single-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
Ludlow, Mo., man indicted on firearms charge
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Ludlow, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Dwayne Lee Else,
36, of Ludlow, Mo., was charged in a single-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
First Former KC man indicted for 'Baywatch' fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A former Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for a fraud scheme that bilked investors out of nearly
$360,000. David William Port, 49, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in
a five-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
Port is a subject of Great Britain.
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the News Release
April 2, 2003
KC man indicted on firearms charge
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Ned V. Haywood,
52, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a single-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
April 1, 2003
Boone County, Mo., man pleads guilty to violating
gun law
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Boone County, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to being a felon in possession of a firearm. Martin Henry,
22, of Boone County, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr this morning to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
April 1, 2003
KC man indicted for distributing cocaine, possession
of meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was indicted by a federal grand jury
today in two separate cases for conspiring to distribute cocaine and possessing
methamphetamine and a firearm. Luis Ramirez, 21, of Kansas City, was charged
in a one-count indictment and in a two-count indictment, both returned
by a federal grand jury today in Kansas City.
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the News Release
April 1, 2003
First of three co-defendants sentenced for distributing
meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Kan., man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute at least 500 grams of
methamphetamine. George J. Singleterry, 23, of Kansas City, Kan., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning to 12 years
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
April 1, 2003
Lake Lotawana man indicted on meth, firearm charges
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Lake Lotawana, Mo., man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today on charges related to manufacturing methamphetamine and
being a felon in possession of several firearms. Gregory C. Curnett, 37,
of Lake Lotawana, Mo., was charged in a five-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
March 28, 2003
Former MedClinic executive pleads guilty to federal
charges
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - MedClinic’s former administrator and vice president
pleaded guilty in federal court today to charges of defrauding the Medicare
program or money. Mark Allbert Tighe, 38, of St. Joseph, pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this afternoon to defrauding
Medicare of money over the course of four years, from as early as 1998
until Jan. 2001.
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the News Release
March 28, 2003
Columbia man sentenced for distributing ecstasy
tablets
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A Columbia, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for distributing ecstasy in the Columbia area. Eric Lee Ward, 20,
of Columbia, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
this afternoon to two years in federal prison without parole
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the News Release
March 28, 2003
Nine defendants sentenced for illegally entering
the United States
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - Nine defendants were sentenced in federal court
today for being illegal aliens in the United States. The nine Mexico residents,
who formerly worked at Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach, Mo., were sentenced
in federal court by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning
in Jefferson City. Galdino Alvarez-Vargas, 20, Eugenia Ambrosio-Almaraz,
28, Salomon Hernandez-Ruiz, 37, Felix Perales-Vazquez, 39, Raul Mendoza-Santiago,
20, Rufino Hernandez-Ruiz, 34, Victor Reyes-Luna, 41, and Luis Raymundo
Matus-Matus, 35, each were sentenced to time served (143 days) and are
to be immediately deported from the United States, Graves said.
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the News Release
March 27, 2003
KC felon sentenced for illegally possessing assault
rifle
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court today
for violating a federal firearms law. This case marks additional progress
under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Lorenzo I. Burns, 28, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Ortrie D. Smith, this morning to five years and 10 months in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
March 27, 2003
KC woman sentenced for manufacturing meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City woman was sentenced in federal court
today for her role in the manufacture of methamphetamine. Roseann Young,
35, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this morning
to 10 years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
March 27, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to possession with intent
to distribute crack
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man pleaded guilty in federal court today
to possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine.
DeWayne K. Adams, 25, of Kansas City, pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to possession with intent to distribute
50 grams or more of crack cocaine.
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the News Release
March 26, 2003
One defendant sentenced, another pleads guilty
in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas man was sentenced and another pleaded guilty
in federal court today for conspiring with others to distribute 500 grams
or more of methamphetamine and five kilograms or more of cocaine. Timothy
Wade Chappell, 37, of Kansas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey this afternoon to 10 years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
March 26, 2003
Former UMB Bank employee pleads guilty to defrauding
bank
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A former UMB Bank employee pleaded guilty in federal
court today to charges of defrauding the company of $22,590.50. Jennifer
A. Bohanon, 27, of Independence, Mo., waived her right to a grand jury
indictment and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple
this afternoon to a federal information charging her with stealing $22,590
from UMB Bank between December 2001, and June 13, 2002.
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the News Release
March 25, 2003
KC man sentenced for conspiring to distribute cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court today
for conspiring to distribute cocaine. Oscar Cantu, 31, of Kansas City,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning
to five years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
March 25, 2003
Osborn man sentenced for illegally possessing 17
firearms
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An Osborn, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law and possessing 17 firearms.
This case marks additional progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s
ongoing anti-crime initiative.
Tony E. Wardlow, 44, of Osborn, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to three years and 10 months in
federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
March 25, 2003
KC man sentenced for distributing 1,000 grams or
more of PCP
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court for
his role in a conspiracy to distribute 1,000 grams or more of phencyclidine
(PCP). Damon M. King, 30, of Kansas City, was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to 10 years in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
March 24, 2003
Nine defendants plead guilty to illegal alien charges
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Nine defendants pleaded guilty in federal court today
to charges related to being illegal aliens in the United States. The nine
Mexico residents, who formerly worked at Tan-Tar-A Resort in Osage Beach,
Mo., pleaded guilty in federal court before U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey this morning to separate three-count indictments returned
by a Jefferson City federal grand jury.
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the News Release
March 19, 2003
KC man convicted in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was convicted by a federal jury today
for his role as the supplier in a conspiracy to distribute crack cocaine
from his home, less than a block from Center Elementary School. Clarence
J. Walton, 33, of Kansas City, Mo., was found guilty of one count of conspiracy
to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine in Jackson County, Mo.,
from Jan. 14 to Feb. 14, 2002, and one count of possession with intent
to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine in Jackson County on Feb.
14, 2002.
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the News Release
March 19, 2003
Lee's Summit woman interrupts trial by pleading
guilty
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Lee's Summit woman, during the second day of a federal
trial for defrauding her former employer, interrupted the proceedings
by pleading guilty today. Rhonda D. Brewer, 47, of Lee's Summit, Mo.,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this
afternoon to two counts of mail fraud and two counts of possessing and
uttering a forged security.
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the News Release
March 19, 2003
KC man charged following shooting
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man was charged in federal court
today with being a felon in possession of a firearm. Graves noted that
the federal charge followed a dispute in which two men were shot. Maurice
B. Brown, 36, of Kansas City, Mo., is charged with being a felon in possession
of a firearm, according to the criminal complaint filed in U.S. District
Court in Kansas City.
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the News Release
March 18, 2003
Two Carthage residents sentenced in cocaine ring
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Two Carthage, Mo., residents were sentenced in federal
court today for their role in a conspiracy to distribute more than 500
grams of cocaine in southern Missouri. The co-defendants are part of Operation
Cocaine Cowboys, which charged a total of 36 federal defendants with illegal
drug trafficking and firearms sales in southwest Missouri. Robert Villanueva,
30, of Carthage, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
this morning to three years of probation in each of two separate cases,
to run concurrently. Donna M. Murphy, 47, of Carthage, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to three years of
probation.
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the News Release
March 18, 2003
Ash Grove man sentenced for possessing pipe bomb
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - An Ash Grove, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for possessing a pipe bomb. Joseph S. Cady, 38, of Ash Grove, Mo.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to three
years of probation, including six months at a half-way house.
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the News Release
March 18, 2003
Southwest Missouri man sentenced for firearms violations
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A southwest Missouri man was sentenced in federal court
today for federal firearms violations. Roger Roy Perry, 77, of Duenweg,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning
to three years of probation.
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the News Release
March 18, 2003
Southwest Missouri man sentenced for firearms violations
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Mexican man was sentenced in federal court today
for illegally reentering the United States. Javier Salas-Villegas, 33,
a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
this morning to four years and nine months in federal prison without parole.
That sentence, Graves added, is consecutive to a sentence of three months
in federal prison without parole for violating conditions of his probation
on charges in the Southern District of Texas.
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the News Release
March 17, 2003
Independence man sentenced for insurance fraud
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An Independence man has been sentenced in federal court
for defrauding his insurance company by falsely reporting that his car
was stolen. Barry W. Jones, 28, of Independence, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., on March 14, 2003, to five
years of probation, including three months of home detention. The court
also ordered Jones to pay more than $19,000 in restitution to State Farm
Insurance Companies.
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the News Release
March 17, 2003
Cabool, Mo., man charged with illegally possessing
a pipe bomb
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Cabool, Mo., man was charged in federal court today
with illegally possessing a pipe bomb. Kelly Lynn Hensley, 38, of Cabool,
Mo., is charged with possession of a firearm, that is, a destructive device
not then registered to him in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer
Record, according to the criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court
in Springfield.
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the News Release
March 14, 2003
KC felon sentenced for violating federal firearms
law
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law. This case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime
initiative. Alfred C. Crater, 26, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning to two years
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
March 14, 2003
Carthage man sentenced for violating federal firearms
law
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Carthage, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law. Lonnie W. Lawson, 46, of Carthage,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith today to eight
years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
March 14, 2003
Texas man sentenced for $1 million fraud against
credit union
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An Austin, Texas man was sentenced in federal court
today for defrauding the Postal & Community Credit Union (formerly
known as the St. Joseph Postal Employees Credit Union) and other financial
institutions. Michael L. Snyder, 49, of Austin, Texas, was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning to three years and six
months federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Snyder to
pay $1,161,512.36 in restitution to three victims of his fraud scheme.
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the News Release
March 14, 2003
St. Joseph man sentenced in check kiting scheme
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A St. Joseph, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for a check kiting scheme that involved the use of the bank account
of his local Blimpies store. Joshua R. Nelson, 32, of St. Joseph, Mo.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this morning
to five months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered
Nelson to serve three years of supervised release, including five months
of home detention. Ketchmark noted that Nelson has already paid $117,443.16
in restitution to the St. Joseph bank that was victimized in the check
kiting scheme.
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the News Release
March 13, 2003
Two defendants sentenced for violating firearms
laws
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two men were sentenced in federal court today in separate
and unrelated cases for violating federal firearms laws. Lige Bush, 43,
of West Plains, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith
today to five years and 10 months in federal prison without parole. Gary
G. Russell, 32, of Springfield, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Ortrie D. Smith today to one year and nine months in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
March 13, 2003
Defendant pleads guilty to robbing Springfield
bank
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A defendant pleaded guilty today to robbing Great Southern
Bank in Springfield. Larry Drew Jacques, 41, pleaded guilty before Magistrate
Judge James C. England this morning to robbing the Great Southern Bank,
located at 1955 S. Campbell Ave., on Dec. 26, 2002.
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the News Release
March 13, 2003
St. Joseph man pleads guilty in district's first hacking convictions
KANSAS CITY - A St. Joseph man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to unauthorized computer intrusion. Graves noted that this is the
first conviction for computer hacking prosecuted by the district’s
new Computer Crimes and Child Exploitation Unit. Richard W. Gerhardt,
43, of St. Joseph, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott
O. Wright to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Dec. 19,
2002.
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March 12, 2003
Two more plead guilty in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two more defendants pleaded guilty in federal court
today to their role in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Armando Urueta
Sagarnaga, also known as Aron Garcia-Martinez, 30, of Kansas City, Mo.,
and Sergio Ramos-Munoz, 29, of Denver, Colo., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Gary A. Fenner to an indictment returned by a federal grand
jury on Nov. 7, 2002. Both Sagarnaga and Ramos-Munoz are citizens of Mexico.
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the News Release
March 12, 2003
Georgia man arrested on indictment for defrauding
investors
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Georgia man – indicted by a federal grand jury
earlier this year in an investment scheme that allegedly defrauded 99
Missouri and Kansas investors out of more than $3 million – has
been arrested by law enforcement officials in Boston, Mass. Milo I. Worthing,
Jr., 57, of Alpharetta, Georgia, and Berkshire, England, was charged in
a 23-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand jury in Kansas
City on Feb. 3, 2003. That indictment was unsealed and made public upon
Worthing’s arrest and initial appearance in federal court in Boston
today.
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the News Release
March 12, 2003
Northern Missouri co-defendant pleads guilty in
meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A second co-defendant in as many days pleaded guilty
in federal court today to his role in a conspiracy to manufacture and
distribute methamphetamine. Martin L. Robbins, 28, of Greentop, Mo., pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this afternoon to conspiring
to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine.
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the News Release
March 12, 2003
Co-conspirator sentenced for role in southern Missouri
cocaine ring
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Scotts City, Mo., man was sentenced today for his
role in a conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine in southern
Missouri. The co-defendant is part of Operation Cocaine Cowboys, which
charged a total of 36 federal defendants with illegal drug trafficking
and firearms sales in southwest Missouri. Juan Reyes, 32, of Scotts City,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning
to eight years and one month in federal prison without parole. Reyes also
was ordered to forfeit $32,255 in proceeds obtained during the conspiracy.
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the News Release
March 12, 2003
Co-defendants plead guilty in cocaine conspiracy
involving 11 kilos
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Two more defendants pleaded guilty in federal court
today to their role in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Armando Urueta
Sagarnaga, also known as Aron Garcia-Martinez, 30, of Kansas City, Mo.,
and Sergio Ramos-Munoz, 29, of Denver, Colo., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Gary A. Fenner to an indictment returned by a federal grand
jury on Nov. 7, 2002. Both Sagarnaga and Ramos-Munoz are citizens of Mexico.
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the News Release
March 11, 2003
Three defendants indicted in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two Kansas men and a Missouri man were indicted by
a federal grand jury today in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. John
L. McMurray, 44, of Kansas City, Mo.; William Brandt, 31, of Topeka, Kan.;
and Ronald Andra McMurray, 41, of Topeka, Kan.; were charged in a three-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
March 11, 2003
Browning, Mo., men indicted in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two Browning, Mo., men were indicted by a federal grand
jury today for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and violating
federal firearms law. Wendell Dean Havens, 41, and Donald Wayne Hughes,
32, both of Browning, Mo., were charged in a three-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury in Kansas City.
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the News Release
March 11, 2003
Former bank manager sentenced for stealing $95,000
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A former bank manager was sentenced in federal court
today for stealing more than $95,000 from First National Bank in Houston,
Mo. Donna Kathleen Chambers, 32, of Bucyrus, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to one year and one day in
federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Chambers to pay
$95,650.35 in restitution.
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the News Release
March 11, 2003
NY woman pleads guilty to cocaine conspiracy after
11 kilos found
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A New York woman pleaded guilty in federal court today
to her role in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Jenny Maria Moreno,
19, of New York, N.Y., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Gary
A. Fenner this morning to an indictment returned by a federal grand jury
on November 7, 2002.
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the News Release
March 11, 2003
Co-defendant pleads guilty in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A co-defendant pleaded guilty in federal court today
to his role in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine.
Wayne J. Gregory, 41, of Worthington, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to conspiring to manufacture
and distribute methamphetamine.
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the News Release
March 11, 2003
KC man sentenced for possession of meth ingredient
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court today
for possessing pseudoephedrine, an ingredient used to manufacture methamphetamine.
Robert D. Hall, 45, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to 10 years in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
March 11, 2003
KCK man pleads guilty to possession with intent
to distribute meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Kan., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Sylvestre Sepulveda, 30, of Kansas City, Kan., pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to conspiring to distribute
500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
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the News Release
March 11, 2003
Former IRS employee sentenced for stealing taxpayer's
money order
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A former employee of the Internal Revenue Service was
sentenced in federal court today for stealing a money order that had been
sent to the IRS for payment of taxes. James G. Ingram, 39, of Kansas City,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert E. Larsen this morning
to one year of probation, including two months of home detention.
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the News Release
March 10, 2003
KC man sentenced in cocaine conspiracy; forfeits
money, property
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine, and will be
required to forfeit a significant amount of property and money. Hal B.
Magice, 44, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to 10 years in federal prison without parole.
The court also ordered Magice to forfeit property derived from the proceeds
of that criminal conspiracy:
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the News Release
March 10, 2003
Former Jefferson City man indicted for filing fraudulent
tax returns
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A former Jefferson City man was indicted today by
a federal grand jury for filing fraudulent income tax returns and structuring
financial transactions to evade federal reporting requirements. Sam G.
Hall, 68, of Orlando, Florida (formerly of Jefferson City, Mo.), was charged
in an eight-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting
in Jefferson City. Hall, who is retired, owned and operated a newspaper
route business during the time frame of the alleged violations.
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the News Release
March 10, 2003
Mexican citizen indicted for being illegal alien
in possession of gun
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A Mexican living in California, Mo., was indicted
today by a federal grand jury on charges related to being an illegal alien
in possession of a firearm, and using false identification documents.
Ignacio Tapia-Leon, 38, of California, Mo., was charged in a three-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Jefferson City.
Tapia-Leon is a citizen of Mexico.
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the News Release
March 10, 2003
KC man sentenced for intent to distribute 322 grams
of cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court today
for possessing with intent to distribute 322.97 grams of cocaine and violating
the conditions of his supervised release from a previous criminal felony
conviction. Mario Moran-Morett, 26, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to six years and
six months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
March 10, 2003
KC felon sentenced for violating federal firearms
law
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law. This case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime
initiative. Isaac J. Coppage, 26, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to two years and
six months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
March 10, 2003
Former Lee's Summit man pleads guilty to possession
of grenade
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas man, formerly of Lee’s Summit, pleaded
guilty in federal court today to being in possession of a hand grenade
and a pipe bomb. Joseph H. Johnston, 38, of Roeland Park, Kansas, pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to both
counts of an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on Dec. 19, 2002.
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the News Release
March 7, 2003
Law enforcement agencies laud crime-fighting strategy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the Western
District of Missouri, and Mark S. James, Special Agent in Charge of the
Kansas City Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms,
welcomed law enforcement representatives from 16 counties in northwest
Missouri who gathered today for a status report on NITRO – the Northwest
Missouri Interagency Team Response Operation.
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the News Release
March 7, 2003
Kansas resident pleads guilty to robbing KC bank
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Gardner, Kan., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to robbing a Kansas City bank. Kevan E. Rudolph, 34, of Gardner,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning
to robbing the Union Bank, located at 7600 E. 87th St. in Kansas City.
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the News Release
March 6, 2003
Two defendants sentenced for roles in trafficking cocaine in KC
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two co-conspirators were sentenced today for their
roles in purchasing, selling and storing at least 150 kilograms of cocaine
in the Kansas City area. Graves described the cocaine conspiracy as one
of the largest in the metropolitan area. Loren Harris, 41, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to four years
and six months in federal prison without parole. Donovan C. Law, Sr.,
41, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey this morning to one year and one day in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
March 5, 2003
Project Ceasefire charges 400th criminal with firearm violation
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Eleven defendants were indicted by a federal grand
jury today on separate and unrelated charges for being felons in possession
of firearms. Today’s indictments are being prosecuted under project
Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime initiative, which now
has brought charges against a total of 400 defendants.
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the News Release
March 5, 2003
Greene County man sentenced for killing migratory birds
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Greene County man was sentenced in federal court
today for causing the deaths of 10 migratory birds by illegally using
Warbex as a poison. Donald E. Smith, 54, of Greene County, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. Magistrate Judge James C. England this morning to one year of
probation. The court also ordered Smith to pay a $2,000 fine.
Read
the News Release
March 5, 2003
Two men indicted for illegal re-entry into the United States
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Nicaraguan man and a Mexican man were indicted by
a federal grand jury today, in separate and unrelated cases, for illegally
re-entering the United States. Melvin Mendez-Valdivia, 31, of Nicaragua,
was charged in a one-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury
meeting in Springfield. Today’s indictment replaces a federal criminal
complaint filed against Mendez-Valdivia on Feb. 13, 2003.
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the News Release
March 5, 2003
Mexican man indicted for transporting illegal aliens after fatal crash
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Mexican citizen was indicted by a federal grand jury
today for illegally transporting aliens within the United States. The
indictment follows a fatality accident on Interstate 44 near Joplin, Mo.,
on Feb. 12, 2003, in which two Mexican citizens were killed and 10 more
were taken to local hospitals with injuries. Horacio Flores-Flores, 28,
a citizen of Mexico, was charged in a four-count indictment returned by
a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield. That indictment replaces
a federal criminal complaint that was filed on Feb. 18, 2003.
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the News Release
March 5, 2003
Two Mexicans, one Indiana woman indicted for transporting aliens
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Two Mexicans and an Indiana woman were indicted by
a federal grand jury today for illegally transporting aliens within the
United States. Nery Lopez-Mendez, 24, and Rodrigo Mendez-Lopez, 33, both
citizens of Mexico, and Jennifer M. Frazee, 30, of Seymour, Indiana, were
charged in a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting
in Springfield.
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the News Release
March 4, 2003
Parkville man sentenced for attempted bank robbery
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Parkville, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for attempting to rob Platte Valley Bank in Kansas City-North. Bradley
R. Schad, 40, of Parkville, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Scott O. Wright this morning to 12 years and seven months in federal prison
without parole.
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the News Release
March 4, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty today to his
role in a conspiracy to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine
– which the government alleges was part of a larger, nationwide
conspiracy to smuggle drugs from Mexico into the United States for distribution
in the Kansas City, Mo., metropolitan area. Kerriem O. Wilson, also known
as “Woo-Soo,” 30, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to conspiring to distribute
more than five kilograms of cocaine.
Read
the News Release
March 4, 2003
KC man sentenced for distributing 100 kilos or more of marijuana
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An Independence, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute 100 kilograms or
more of marijuana. Steven Langsford, 28, was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to two years in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
March 4, 2003
KC felon pleads guilty for violating federal firearm law
KANSAS CITY, Mo. -A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law. This case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime
initiative. Dwane D. Davis, 25, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to being a felon in
possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
March 4, 2003
Four defendants indicted for firearms violations
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Four Kansas City area defendants were indicted by a
federal grand jury today on separate and unrelated charges for being felons
in possession of firearms.
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the News Release
March 3, 2003
Two defendants sentenced in freon fraud case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - The former owner of a Pittsburg, Kan., car dealership
and implement company and a former manager of Sam’s Club Membership
Warehouses were sentenced in federal court today for their role in a scheme
to split what the government alleged totaled more than $756,000 in kickbacks
on fraudulent sales of the refrigerant gas Freon.
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the News Release
March 3, 2003
KC man pleads guilty for violating federal firearms law
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today for violating a federal firearms law. This case marks additional
progress under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime
initiative. John Jeffrey Davis, 42, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to being a felon
in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
March 3, 2003
KC man sentenced for conspiring to distribute 1,000 grams of PCP
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court for
his role in a conspiracy to distribute 1,000 grams or more of phencyclidine
(PCP). Bertkinzey E. Marchbanks, 38, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., on Feb. 28, 2003, to six
years and six months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
February 28, 2003
Northwest MO man indicted for money laundering scheme to hide marijuana
profits
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Hatfield, Mo., man has been indicted by a federal
grand jury for his role in a money-laundering conspiracy that was allegedly
designed to hide the proceeds of marijuana manufacturing. Dennis A. Perkins,
41, of Hatfield, Mo., was charged in a 14-count indictment returned by
a federal grand jury in Kansas City on Feb. 25, 2003. That indictment,
which was sealed by the court, was unsealed and made public today upon
Perkins' arrest and initial appearance in federal court.
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the News Release
February 28, 2003
Two brothers receive longest sentence of any Ceasefire case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Five defendants were sentenced in federal court today
for being felons in possession of a firearm, in four separate and unrelated
cases. Two of those defendants, Graves added, received the longest sentences
ever ordered in a case under Project Ceasefire, the district's continuing
anti-crime initiative.
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the News Release
February 27, 2003
Project Ceasefire: Felon sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A felon was sentenced in federal court today for illegal
possession of a firearm. Today’s sentencing was the culmination
of a case launched under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing
anti-crime initiative. Charles A. Francis, 32, address unknown, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple this morning to six years and five
months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 27, 2003
Third conspirator sentenced for manufacturing, distributing meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An Adrian, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for conspiring to manufacture and distribute 500 grams or more of
methamphetamine. Thomas L. Rabourn, 42, of Adrian, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this morning to six years and
eight months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 27, 2003
Cocaine ring conspirator sentenced following jury conviction
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Texas woman was sentenced in federal court today
for her role in a conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine
in Jasper County, Mo. The co-defendant is part of Operation Cocaine Cowboys,
which charged a total of 36 federal defendants with illegal drug trafficking
and firearms sales in southwest Missouri.
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the News Release
February 27, 2003
Three defendants indicted for conspiring to distribute crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Three defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury
today for conspiring to distribute more than 50 grams of crack cocaine.
Freddie L. Harold, 60, Armund C. Moore, 32, and Scott J. Scheronn, 36,
all of Kansas City, Mo., were charged in a seven-count indictment returned
by a federal grand jury, which met today in Kansas City.
Read
the News Release
February 27, 2003
Six residents indicted for conspiring to distribute crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Six defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury
today for their involvement in a crack cocaine conspiracy. Dale M. Willis,
39, Jerrill A. Green, 39, Darric L. Partee, 22, Brent E. Jones, 39, Robert
L. White, 32 and Jakema L. Cutchlow, 24, all of Kansas City, Mo., were
charged in a 12-count superseding indictment returned by a federal grand
jury, which met today in Kansas City.
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the News Release
February 27, 2003
KC man indicted for distributing crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man has been indicted for distributing
crack cocaine on four separate occasions. Joe McNeely, 33, also known
as Peter Rabbit, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged in a five-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury, which met today in Kansas City.
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the News Release
February 27, 2003
Overland Park couple indicted for embezzling over $2 million
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - An Overland Park, Kan., couple has been indicted by
a federal grand jury for embezzling about $2 million from the wife’s
employer. Tamie J. Gordon, 42, and Ronald E. Gordon, 38, both of Overland
Park, Kan., were charged in a 16-count indictment returned by a federal
grand jury on Feb. 26, 2003. That indictment, which was sealed by the
court, was unsealed and made public upon Tamie Gordon’s arrest and
initial appearance in federal court today.
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the News Release
February 27, 2003
18 Eastern Jackson County resident indicted in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Eighteen eastern Jackson County residents have been
indicted by a federal grand jury in a conspiracy to manufacture and distribute
at least 500 grams of methamphetamine.
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the News Release
February 26, 2003
Three new defendants indicted for health care fraud at MedClinic
KANSAS CITY - Three new defendants were indicted by a federal
grand jury today for defrauding the Medicare program of money. Mark Allbert
Tighe, 38, of St. Joseph, Raghavendra B. Adiga, 44, of St. Joseph, Juanito
L. Villahermosa, 72, of Savannah, Mo., and Joseph H. Nadeau, 41, of Davenport,
Wash., were charged in a second superseding indictment returned by a federal
grand jury meeting today in Kansas City. Today’s second superseding
indictment replaces a superseding indictment filed on Nov. 7, 2002, which
replaced an original indictment filed on Oct. 1, 2002. Tighe was the only
defendant named in the original and superseding indictments.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
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the News Release
February 26, 2003
Four workers at KCI Airport indicted for violating federal laws
KANSAS CITY - Four employees of firms contracted to work at
Kansas City International Airport were indicted by a federal grand jury
today for separate and unrelated violations of federal law. The four indictments
are the result of an Anti-Terrorism Task Force project called Operation
Tarmac.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
Read
the News Release
February 26, 2003
NW Missouri man indicted for possession of gun after shooting
KANSAS CITY - A northwest Missouri man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today, the result of an investigation by NITRO – the
Northwest Missouri Interagency Team Response Operation Task Force. Douglas
S. Armstrong, 31, address unknown, was charged in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
Read
the News Release
February 26, 2003
Three defendants indicted for conspiring to distribute crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Three defendants were indicted by a federal grand jury
today for their involvement in a crack cocaine conspiracy. Jeffrey D.
Tubbs, 30, Edward Henderson, 48, and Kellie E. Allen, 24, all of Kansas
City, Mo., were charged in a six-count indictment returned by a federal
grand jury meeting today in Kansas City.
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the News Release
February 26, 2003
Minnesota man sentenced for attept to possess, distribute marijuana
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Minnesota resident was sentenced in federal court
today for attempting possess with an intent to distribute approximately
99 kilograms of marijuana. Brodie W. Loeffler, 23, of Moorhead, Minn.,
was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to three
years and five months in federal prison without parole. The court also
ordered Loeffler to forfeit $9,700 in proceeds obtained as a result of
the federal law violation.
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the News Release
February 26, 2003
KC man sentenced for intention to distribute meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court today
for possessing with an intent to distribute methamphetamine. Jeffrey Ray
Rufty, 37, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary
A. Fenner this morning to five years and 10 months in federal prison without
parole.
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the News Release
February 26, 2003
KC man sentenced for defrauding Rockhurst University
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City man was sentenced in federal court today
for defrauding Rockhurst University by inflating invoices and billing
the school for work that was not done. Marvin Rogers, 56, of Kansas City,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple this morning to
five years of probation. The court also ordered Rogers to pay $37,000
in restitution.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Local man indicted for having building burned, collecting insurance
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Milan, Mo., resident was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for deliberately burning his mother’s property to fraudulently
receive $20,000 in insurance money. James L. Baker, 58, of Milan, Mo.,
was charged today in a four-count indictment returned by a federal grand
jury meeting in Kansas City.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Felon from southern Missouri sentenced for violating firearm law
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A southern Missouri man was sentenced in federal court
for violating federal firearms law. Matthew Monks, 26, was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to 10 years in federal
prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Fourth defendant sentenced for distributing meth in national park
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - An Elk Creek, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for distributing methamphetamine within the Mark Twain National
Forest in Douglas County. Dickie D.Clouse, 41, of Elk Creek, Mo., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to three
years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Springfield man sentenced for taking girl to New Mexico for sex
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Springfield man was sentenced in federal court today
for transporting a minor from Mountain Grove, Mo., to New Mexico with
the intent to have sex with her. Steve Curtis Spangler, 46, was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to five years and 11
months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Co-defendant sentenced for involvement in cocaine ring
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Carthage, Mo., resident was sentenced in federal
court today for his role in a conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams
of cocaine in Jasper County, Mo. The co-defendant is part of Operation
Cocaine Cowboys, which charged a total of 36 federal defendants with illegal
drug trafficking and firearms sales in southwest Missouri. Manuel Sanchez-Villagran,
33, of Carthage, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard E.
Dorr this morning to five years in federal prison without parole. The
court also ordered Villigran to forfeit $32,540 in assets gained from
his involvement in the crime. On Oct. 16, 2002, Villagran pleaded guilty
to conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine from Nov. 14,
1999 to Nov. 25, 2001.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Springfield man sentenced for distributing meth
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Springfield man was sentenced in federal court today
for conspiring to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. James
Michael Vest, 33, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Richard E. Dorr this morning to seven years and three months in federal
prison without parole. The court also ordered Vest to forfeit $81,544.08
and his 1997 Chevrolet Silverado truck, which are assets acquired from
the crime.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Chicago man sentenced for passing counterfeit bills in Branson
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Chicago man was sentenced in federal court today
for passing counterfeit bills in Branson, Mo. John G. DeLeon, 26, of Chicago,
Ill., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning
to one year and eight months in federal prison without parole. The court
also ordered DeLeon to pay $200 in restitution.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Joplin man sentenced for violating federal firearm law
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Joplin, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today
for being an unlawful user of a controlled substance while in possession
of a firearm. Marvin T. Greer, 32, of Joplin, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to two years and three months
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Two Springfield men sentenced for pawn shop burglaries
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Two Springfield, Mo., men have been sentenced in federal
court for stealing firearms from two local pawn shops. Joseph A. Smiley,
21, of Springfield, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary A.
Fenner on Feb. 24, 2003, to 10 years in federal prison without parole.
The court also ordered Smiley to pay $6,254.29 in restitution, for which
he is jointly and severally liable.
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the News Release
February 25, 2003
Springfield man sentenced on meth, firearm charges
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Springfield man was sentenced in federal court today
in two separate criminal cases, one charging possession of methamphetamine
with intent to distribute and one charging him with being a felon in possession
of a firearm. Mark A. Walrath, 41, of Springfield, was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Gary A. Fenner this morning to nine years and seven months
in federal prison without parole for possession of methamphetamine with
intent to distribute, and to six years and six months in federal prison
without parole for being a felon in possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
February 24, 2003
Crocker, Mo., residents sentenced for meth distribution
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Two Crocker, Mo., residents were sentenced in federal
court today for distributing methamphetamine in Pulaski County. Matthew
D. Romine, 29, of Crocker, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Gary
A. Fenner this afternoon to three years and one month in federal prison
without parole. Cynthia E. Brownlee, 41, of Crocker, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner this afternoon to five years of
probation.
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the News Release
February 24, 2003
Defendant pleads guilty to robbing local bank
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A man pleaded guilty in federal court today to robbing
the Great Southern Bank, located at 2410 N. Glenstone Ave. Dennis James
Godfrey, 49, who currently is in state custody, pleaded guilty before
U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr this morning to an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury on Dec. 18, 2002. By pleading guilty, Godfrey
admitted to taking money by intimidation from a teller at Great Southern
Bank on Nov. 26, 2002.
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the News Release
February 24, 2003
Three men charged in cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Three men have been charged in federal court with conspiracy
to distribute cocaine. John L. McMurray, 44, of Kansas City, Mo.; and
William Brandt, 32, and Ronald Andra McMurray, 43, both of Topeka, Kan.,
were charged with conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of powder
cocaine between Jan. 20 and Feb. 20, 2003, according to a criminal complaint
filed in federal court in Kansas City on Feb. 21, 2003. John and Ronald
McMurray are brothers.
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the News Release
February 21, 2003
Doctor, nurse among six sentenced for $1 million Medicare fraud
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Six defendants were sentenced in federal court today
for conspiring to defraud the United States through a system of kickbacks
for patient referrals and the filing of false claims that resulted in
overpayments of more than $1 million from Medicare and Medicaid.
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the News Release
February 21, 2003
Mexican citizen charged with illegal re-entry into the United States
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Mexican man was charged in federal court today for
illegal re-entry into the United States. Pedro Soriano-Garcia, 34, of
Mexico, is charged with being an alien who was found in the United States
after having been previously deported, according to the criminal complaint
filed in U.S. District Court in Springfield.
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the News Release
February 21, 2003
Felon sentenced for illegally purchasing a gun
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Mountain Grove, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for illegally purchasing a firearm from A& H Gun and Pawn,
located in Mountain Grove. Robert L. Gibbs, 46, was sentenced this afternoon
by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple to four years and nine months
in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 21, 2003
Cameron man sentenced for threatening a witness
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Cameron, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court
for threatening a witness in a federal criminal case. Shannon L. Short,
22, of Cameron, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
on Feb. 20, 2003, to two years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 21, 2003
Sedalia man sentenced for credit fraud
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Sedalia, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court
for credit fraud. Anthony R. Elwood, 34, of Sedalia, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple on Feb. 20, 2003, to four years in
federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Elwood to pay $153,049.42
in restitution to the victims of his crime.
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the News Release
February 21, 2003
Five men sentenced for violating federal firearms laws
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the Western
District of Missouri, announced today that fiive men were sentenced in
separate and unrelated cases for violating federal firearms laws.
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the News Release
February 21, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to transporting over 650 pounds of marijuana
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City has pleaded guilty in federal court to
transporting 296 kilograms (more than 650 pounds) of marijuana across
the state line from Kansas to Missouri. Gustavo A. Ibarra, 26, of Kansas
City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs on
Feb. 20, 2003, to transporting marijuana across state lines.
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the News Release
February 21, 2003
One KC felon sentenced, another pleads guilty to violating gun law
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - One Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced and another
pleaded guilty in federal court on separate and unrelated charges for
violating federal firearms laws. The two cases mark the progress of prosecutions
launched under Project Ceasefire, the district’s ongoing anti-crime
initiative.
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the News Release
February 20, 2003
Summersville man sentenced for shooting helicopter
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Summersville, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal
court for shooting into a Missouri National Guard helicopter. Jimmie Leroy
Shriver, 53, of Summersville, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Dean Whipple on Feb. 19, 2003, to 13 years and five months in federal
prison without parole. The court also ordered Shriver to pay more than
$11,000 in restitution to repair damage to the helicopter.
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the News Release
February 19, 2003
Springfield insurance agent sentenced for bank theft, wire fraud
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Springfield insurance agent was sentenced in federal
court today for bank theft and for defrauding his clients and insurance
finance companies. Robert Darren Hoelcher, 30, of Springfield, Mo., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Dean Whipple this afternoon to one year
and six months in prison on each of two counts, to be served concurrently.
The court also ordered Hoelcher to pay $75,660.02 in restitution.
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the News Release
February 19, 2003
Felon sentenced for illegally possessing firearm
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A convicted felon was sentenced in federal court today
for violating a federal firearms law. Michael Leon Williams, 42, address
unknown, was sentenced by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple this
afternoon to 15 years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 19, 2003
Two Blue Springs men sentenced for meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Two Blue Springs, Mo., men were sentenced today for
their role in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine at a Blue Springs
residence and elsewhere. Charles Morrison, 33, of Blue Springs, Mo., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to
19 years and 7 months in federal prison without parole. Brad E. Aliff,
33, of Blue Springs, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey this afternoon to 12 years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 19, 2003
Bethany bank employee pleads guilty to money laundering
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Bethany, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal court
today to money laundering at the bank where he was employed. James H.
Krueger, 51, of Bethany, Mo., waived his right to an indictment by a grand
jury and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this
morning to a federal information charging him with structuring financial
transactions in order to evade federal reporting requirements.
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the News Release
February 19, 2003
One KC felon sentenced, one pleads guilty to violating firearms law
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - One Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced and another
pleaded guilty in federal court today on separate and unrelated charges
for violating federal firearms laws. Kendra D. Bradley, 34, of Kansas
City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon
to two years in federal prison without parole. William R. Mabie, 41, who
currently is incarcerated at the Jackson County, Mo., Jail, pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to being a felon
in possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
February 19, 2003
KC woman pleads guilty in meth conspiracy
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., woman pleaded guilty today to conspiring
to manufacture more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Wanda J. Wing, 31,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this
morning to manufacturing the drug in Kansas City.
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the News Release
February 18, 2003
Mexican citizen charged with transporting illegal aliens following fatal
crash near Joplin
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Mexican citizen was charged in federal court today
with illegally transporting aliens within the United States. The federal
charge follows a fatality accident on Interstate 44 near Joplin, Mo.,
on Feb. 12, 2003, in which two Mexican citizens were killed and 10 more
were taken to local hospitals with injuries. Horacio Flores-Flores, 28,
a citizen of Mexico, is charged with transporting four Mexican citizens,
whom he knew to be in the United States illegally, for the purpose of
private financial gain, according to the criminal complaint filed in U.S.
District Court in Springfield this afternoon.
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the News Release
February 18, 2003
Court orders notice of Courtney restitution published
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the Western
District of Missouri, announced that The Kansas City Star will publish
a notice with restitution information for victims of former Kansas City
pharmacist Robert R. Courtney. The notice will appear for three consecutive
Wednesdays, starting tomorrow.
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the News Release
February 18, 2003
St. Joseph man sentenced for stealing weapons from area business
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A St. Joseph, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for stealing six weapons from Hatfield’s Sporting Goods, Inc.,
a federally licensed firearm dealer in St. Joseph. George E. Huyett, III,
22, of St. Joseph, was sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District Judge
Dean Whipple to one year and one month in federal prison without parole.
The court also ordered Huyett to pay restitution in the amount of $2,700.
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the News Release
February 18, 2003
KC man sentenced for distributing cocaine
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for distributing crack cocaine. Clinnon White, 32, of Kansas City,
Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this
morning to six years and three months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 18, 2003
Poplar Bluff man sentenced for manufacturing meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Poplar Bluff, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for his role in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine at his
brother's Independence, Mo., home, by using a tank of anhydrous ammonia
hidden at a local park. Randy S. Hines, 45, of Poplar Bluff, Mo., was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to five
years and 10 months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 18, 2003
Ceasefire: KC man sentenced
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court
today for being a felon in possession of a firearm. Today's sentencing
marked the culmination of a case launched under Project Ceasefire, the
district's ongoing anti-crime initiative. John D. Berry, 35, of Kansas
City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning
to seven years and three months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 18, 2003
Buffalo man sentenced for possession of stolen mail
SPRINGFIELD, Mo. - A Buffalo, Mo., man was sentenced in federal
court today for illegal possession of stolen mail matter. Jason Eugene
Durgan, 32, of Buffalo, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Richard
E. Dorr to one year and six months in federal prison without parole. The
court also ordered Durgan to pay $3,215.92 in restitution.
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the News Release
February 14, 2003
Texas woman sentenced for distributing cocaine in Fulton, Mo.
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A Texas woman was sentenced today for
distributing cocaine in Fulton, Mo. Natalie Janette Vaughn, 45, of Gatesville,
Texas, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this afternoon
to 12 years and seven months in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 14, 2003
Man sentenced for passing counterfeit bills at police station
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced today for
passing counterfeit $100 bills at the Columbia, Mo., Police Department.
Andrew Joseph Wieschhaus, 24, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S.
District Judge Scott O. Wright this afternoon to two years in federal
prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 14, 2003
Columbia, Mo., resident sentenced for firearms violation
JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. - A Columbia, Mo., man was sentenced today
for being a felon in possession of a firearm.Carlos Antoine Sims, 26,
was sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright to
four years and nine months in prison without parole. On Oct. 4, 2002,
Sims pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
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the News Release
February 14, 2003
KC area man pleads guilty in federal firearms case
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty today
being a felon in possession of a firearm, in the continuing Project Ceasefire
anti-crime initiative. Marcus D. Watson, 36, pleaded guilty before U.S.
District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to being a felon in possession
of a firearm. Watson was originally charged in an indictment filed on
Nov. 5, 2002.
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the News Release
February 14, 2003
KC area man pleads guilty to stealing $27,000 worth of car parts
KANSAS CITY, Mo. - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for
the Western District of Missouri, announced that a Kansas City, Mo., area
man pleaded guilty today to stealing more than $27,000 worth of motor
vehicle products. Kenny R. Borders, 32, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty
before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this afternoon to theft of
motor vehicle products from an interstate shipment of freight.
Read
the News Release
February 13, 2003
KC man charged as felon in possession of firearm following pursuit
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was charged today in federal
court with being a felon in possession of a firearm. DeAndre L. Price,
19, was charged in a criminal complaint filed this afternoon in U.S. District
Court in Kansas City. According to an affidavit filed in support of the
complaint, Price allegedly was found shortly after 12:15 a.m. in possession
of a Colt .38 caliber revolver.
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the News Release
February 13, 2003
Former Commerce Bank employee sentenced for fraud
KANSAS CITY - An Independence, Mo., woman was sentenced today
for using her position as a Commerce Bank employee to defraud credit card
customers.
Victoria J. Wray, 44, a former security employee with Commerce Bank, was
sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to three
months in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Wray to
pay restitution in the amount of $35,535.89.
Read
the News Release
February 13, 2003
Nicaraguan man charged with illegal re-entry into the United States
KANSAS CITY - A Nicaraguan man was charged in federal court
today for illegally re-entering the United States. Melvin Mendez-Valdivia,
31, of Nicaragua, is charged with being an alien who was found in the
United States after having been previously deported, according to the
criminal complaint filed in U.S. District Court in Springfield.
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the News Release
February 12, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to conspiring to distribute meth
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man pleaded guilty today
to his role in a conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Jason S. Loney, 22, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to conspiring to distribute 500
grams or more of meth.
Read
the News Release
February 12, 2003
Daviess County man pleads guilty in NITRO firearms case
KANSAS CITY - A Daviess County man pleaded guilty today to
being a felon in possession of a firearm. William S. Perkins, 33, of McFall,
Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this
afternoon to being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Read
the News Release
February 11, 2003
Ceasefire: KC man sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced today for a federal
firearm violation. Herbert Harris, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced
this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs to six years in
federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 11, 2003
Candace R. Cole joins United States Attorney's Office
KANSAS CITY - Candace R. Cole, former chief assistant prosecuting
attorney/county counselor at the Cass County Prosecutor’s Office,
has joined the United States Attorney’s Office. Todd P. Graves,
United States Attorney for the Western District of Missouri, announced
today that Cole has been hired as an Assistant U.S. Attorney.
Read
the News Release
February 11, 2003
Computer specialist joins United States Attorney's Office
KANSAS CITY - Chad Nolan Bixby has joined the United States
Attorney’s Office. Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced today that Bixby will be working
as the district’s Assistant Systems Manager.
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the News Release
February 10, 2003
Second sibling pleads guilty in Polsky Motors federal fraud case
KANSAS CITY - A second sibling who formerly operated Polsky
Motors, Inc., in St. Joseph, Mo., pleaded guilty today to federal charges
of fraud. Gregory H. Polsky, 41, former vice president and used car manager
at Polsky Motors, pleaded guilty before District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan,
Jr., this morning to three counts of fraud against the company’s
customers, employees and lenders.
Read
the News Release
February 10, 2003
Two Texas men sentenced for distribution of 100 kilos of marijuana
SPRINGFIELD - Two Texas men were sentenced for their role in
a conspiracy to distribute mass quantities of marijuana in Jasper County,
Mo. Jamie De La Pena, 35, of San Marcos, Texas, was sentenced on Feb.
7, 2003, by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr to five years and 10 months
in federal prison without parole. Jimmy Jones, 41, of Seagoville, Texas,
also was sentenced on Feb. 7, 2003, by U.S. District Judge Richard E.
Dorr to six years and eight months in federal prison without parole.
Read
the News Release
February 7, 2003
Laura Courtney pleads guilty, sentenced for false statements
KANSAS CITY - Laura Lynn Courtney, the wife of former Kansas
City pharmacist Robert Ray Courtney, pleaded guilty today and was sentenced
for making a false statement to federal agents during their investigation
into her husband’s drug dilution scheme.
Read
the News Release
February 7, 2003
Two more defendants plead guilty to cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Two more defendants pleaded guilty to their role
in a conspiracy to distribute crack and powder cocaine. Lynn E. Haynes,
30, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey to conspiracy to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine
from January 1999 to June 27, 2002. Carlos Nelson, 20, Kansas City, Mo.,
also pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey to
conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine from January
1999 to June 27, 2002.
Read
the News Release
February 7, 2003
Four defendants indicted in cocaine, marijuana conspiracy
JEFFERSON CITY - Four defendants were indicted by a federal
grand jury today for conspiring to distribute marijuana and cocaine in
Columbia, Mo. Juan Carlos Rivera, 29, and Esteban Rivera, 22, both of
Romeoville, Ill., and Brian Wheeler, 23, and Justin Robert Wells, 23,
both of Columbia, all were charged in Count One of the indictment. Count
One alleges the men conspired to distribute at least 100 kilograms of
marijuana and 500 grams of cocaine from as early as September 2000 until
Nov. 24, 2002 in Columbia.
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the News Release
February 7, 2003
KC man sentenced for distributing more than 50 grams of cocaine
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced today for
distributing more than 50 grams of crack cocaine. Jason L. Houcks, 24,
was sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright to
four years in federal prison without parole.
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the News Release
February 4, 2003
Former police officer sentenced for attempting to distribute steroids
KANSAS CITY - A former Independence, Mo., police officer was
sentenced today for attempting to sell anabolic steroids to a fellow police
officer. Timothy M. Kamer, 29, of Independence, Mo., was sentenced this
morning by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., to two years probation,
the first three months of which will be served in home detention.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
Read
the News Release
Pictured
from back left are Richard Cook, Kansas City Crime Commission; Darrell
Moore, Green County, Mo., prosecutor; Dave Lin, ATF; Dr. Alex Holsinger,
UMKC; Rudolph Rhodes, Asst. U.S. Attorney; Randy Roberts, ATF; Mark James,
ATF Special Agent in Charge; Paul Becker, Asst. U.S. Attorney; Todd P.
Graves, U.S. Attorney; John Ashcroft, U.S. Attorney General; Capt. Cheryl
Rose, KCPD; Rebecca Tillman, with the U.S. Attorney's Office; Jan Mulkey,
Valentine/Radford Advertising; and Dr. Kenneth Novak, UMKC.
Click here for high-resolution image.
Click here for MP3 audio clips from U.S. Attorney
Todd P. Graves.
February 3, 2003
Local crime fighting organizations receive national recognition
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced today that a team of organizations
received a national award for their fight against gun crime. The Western
District of Missouri’s Project Safe Neighborhoods/Project Ceasefire
Team received the U.S. Department of Justice’s Outstanding Partnership
or Task Force Award. The combined efforts of several local organizations
helped in earning this national recognition.
Read
the News Release
February 3, 2003
KC man sentenced for seven bank robberies
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., man was sentenced today for
a series of bank robberies in the Kansas City, Mo., area. A.C. Cowans,
also known as Bug, 39, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced this morning
by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., to seven years and three
months in federal prison without parole on each of seven counts, to be
served concurrently. The court also ordered Cowans to pay a total of $55,892.50
in restitution to the banks.
Read the News Release
January 31, 2003
Former Polsky Motors president pleads guilty to fraud
KANSAS CITY - One of three siblings that formerly operated
Polsky Motors, Inc., in St. Joseph, Mo., pleaded guilty today to federal
charges of fraud. Michael S. Polsky, 43, former president of Polsky Motors,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr., this
morning to three counts of fraud against his customers, employees and
the company’s lenders. By pleading guilty, Graves said, Polsky admitted
that he knowingly, with an intent to defraud, submitted a loan application
on Dec. 2, 1998 to the Small Business Administration that did not include
accurate tax information.
Read the News Release
January 31, 2003
Former college employee pleads guilty to stealing loan checks
KANSAS CITY - A former Longview Community College employee
pleaded guilty today to stealing 14 student loan checks with a total loss
of approximately $30,000. Cynda L. Long, 52, of Lee’s Summit, Mo,
pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning
to defrauding the U.S. Department of Education and stealing from Federal
Guaranteed Student Loan Program funds on repeated occasions from August
1999 to April 2000.
Read the News Release
January 30, 2003
Doctor sentenced for unlawful sale of prescription drug samples
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City doctor of osteopathic medicine
was sentenced today for the unlawful sale of prescription drug samples.
This case, Graves added, is the product of the same investigation that
led to successful prosecutions in several earlier cases, including the
prosecution of Robert Ray Courtney. Steven Michael Cicero, 48, of Kansas
City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning
to two years of probation, including six months of home detention and
600 hours of community service. The court also imposed a fine of $30,000,
which was the maximum fine permitted under the federal sentencing guidelines.
Cicero previously surrendered his license to medicine in Missouri.
Read the News Release
January 30, 2003
Two charged after KC area's largest seizure of meth ingredients
KANSAS CITY - A man and woman were charged in federal court
with possessing nearly 28 pounds of ephedrine, an ingredient used to manufacture
methamphetamine. David J. Finney, 25, and Sara E. Jack, 21, of Archie,
Mo., are charged in a criminal complaint filed on Jan. 29, 2003 in U.S.
District Court in Kansas City with possessing the illegal ingredient ephedrine
in a motel room in Belton, Mo.
Read the News Release
January 30, 2003
KC man pleads guilty to conspiring to manufacture meth
KANSAS CITY - A defendant pleaded guilty today to his role
in a conspiracy to manufacture methamphetamine. Michael R. Curiale, Jr.,
also known as “Mechanic Mike,” 35, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Howard F. Sachs this morning to conspiring
to manufacture 50 grams or more of meth.
Read the News Release
January 29, 2003
Texas man sentenced for distributing marijuana in Jasper County
SPRINGFIELD - An Arlington, Texas, man was sentenced today
for his role in a conspiracy to distribute mass quantities of marijuana
in Jasper County, Mo. Antonio Castro, 42, of Arlington, Texas, was sentenced
this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Richard E. Dorr to five years and
10 months in prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 29, 2003
Four co-defendants sentenced on drug charges
SPRINGFIELD - Four co-defendants were sentenced for their role
in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine in Jasper County,
Mo. The four defendants are part of Operation Cocaine Cowboys, which charged
a total of 36 federal defendants with illegal drug trafficking and firearms
sales in Southwest Missouri.
Read the News Release
January 28, 2003
KC area man sentenced for wearing congressional medal of honor
KANSAS CITY - An Independence, Mo., man was sentenced today
for the unauthorized wearing of the Congressional Medal of Honor and to
the possession and production of false identification documents and an
identification document-making implement. Ralph Ervin Crowder, 46, was
sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner to eight
months in federal prison without parole. Following his sentence, Crowder
also will have three years of supervised release, the first two months
of which will include home detention.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
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January 28, 2003
Nine felons indicted on firearms violations
KANSAS CITY - Todd P. Graves, United States Attorney for the
Western District of Missouri, announced today that nine defendants have
been indicted by a federal grand jury and charged in separate and unrelated
cases as felons in possession of firearms.
Read the News Release
January 28, 2003
St. Joseph woman sentenced for mail fraud, claiming dead mother's Social
Security benefits
KANSAS CITY - A St. Joseph, Mo., woman was sentenced today
for mail fraud and forging her dead mother’s signature to cash 93
Social Security checks worth $50,505. Barbara K. O’Dell, 48, was
sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner to five
years of probation, including six months of home confinement. O’Dell
also was ordered to pay full restitution in the amount of $50,505 to the
Social Security Administration in payments of $1,403 per month. Restitution
must be paid within six months before the end of O’Dell’s
probationary period.
Read the News Release
January 27, 2003
KC man sentenced for Gladstone check kiting scheme
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced today for defrauding
three local banks in Gladstone, Mo. Eric K. Lam, 39, was sentenced this
morning by U.S. District Judge Gary A. Fenner to one year and one day
in prison without parole. Lam also was ordered to pay restitution to the
victim banks in the amount of $19,224.58.
Read the News Release
January 24, 2003
Country western singer pleads guilty to illegally receiving welfare benefits
KANSAS CITY - A Florida man pleaded guilty today to receiving
disability benefits, food stamps and Medicaid benefits to which he was
not entitled. Conrad Doyle Morris, 59, of Largo, Florida, waived his right
to a grand jury indictment and pleaded guilty to a federal information
that charges him with the theft of public funds. Morris is a country music
singer who has been performing around the country and sells his music
CDs at several local stores, Graves said. Before moving to Florida, he
was formerly associated with D's Music, a music equipment and repair shop
in Blue Springs, Mo.
Read the News Release
January 24, 2003
KC man convicted in one of the area's largest cocaine rings
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man has been convicted by a federal
jury for distributing large quantities of cocaine in the Kansas City area.
Robert L. Abbott, 30, of Kansas City, Mo., was found guilty on Jan. 23,
2003, of participating in a conspiracy responsible for the distribution
of nearly 200 kilograms of cocaine in the metropolitan area.
Read the News Release
January 24, 2003
KC man convicted of armed bank robbery
KANSAS CITY - A man, who lived in both Pittsburg, Kan., and
Kansas City, Mo., was convicted by a federal jury of the armed robbery
of Winterset State Bank. Damon Beaman, 29, of Kansas City, Mo., was found
guilty of armed bank robbery on Jan. 23, 2002. He was initially charged
with the crime in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury on July
9, 2002. Beaman was found guilty of robbing Winterset State Bank.
Read the News Release
January 24, 2003
Four southern Missouri men indicted
SPRINGFIELD - Four southern Missouri men have been indicted
on various charges related to distributing methamphetamine in Taney County
and illegal possession of firearms. Michael R. Burns, 54, and Sean L.
Davis, 27, both of Branson; Howard A. Neustel, 32, of Kirbyville, Mo.;
and Alonzo F. Ellerman, 41, of Hollister, Mo.; were charged in a seven-count
indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield on
Jan. 23, 2003.
Read the News Release
January 23, 2003
Defendants charged with selling Warbex placed on pretrial diversion
KANSAS CITY - A corporation and two of its employees in Barton
County were placed on pretrial diversion today for their role in the illegal
poisoning of large numbers of red-tailed hawks, owls, and other wildlife.
MFA Agri-Services, Inc., a Missouri corporation in Lamar, Mo.; and Bert
Phipps, 24, and Lynton Hickman, 37, both of Lamar, Mo., were charged in
a federal information with two counts of selling the animal drug Warbex
to an individual after advising that individual on the use of the drug
for the unapproved purpose of euthanizing birds.
Read the News Release
January 23, 2003
Jury convicts Jordanian nationals for attempted bank fraud
KANSAS CITY - Two Jordanian nationals have been convicted by
a federal jury for attempting to pass a forged and fraudulent $15 million
cashier’s check at a Kansas City bank. Soheir A. Abu Nahia, 33,
a female, of Kansas City, Mo., and Nabil Y.M. Rashid, 32, a male, of Grandview,
were found guilty of bank fraud on Jan. 22, 2002 in U.S. District Court
in Kansas City, Mo.
Read the News Release
January 23, 2003
Three Boone County men indicted for violating federal firearms law
SPRINGFIELD - Three Boone County men have been indicted by
a federal grand jury for being felons in possession of a firearm. Garrett
Murray, 22, Larry Tucker, 27, and Martin Henry, 22, addresses all unknown,
were charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting
in Springfield on Jan. 22, 2003.
Read the News Release
January 23, 2003
Four aliens indicted for illegal re-entry into the United States
SPRINGFIELD - Four defendants have been indicted by a federal
grand jury in separate and unrelated cases for illegally re-entering the
United States. Everton Ugera Morrison, 30, of Jamaica, was charged in
an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield
today. Daniel Flores-Valdivia, 30, of Mexico; Cesar Leopoldo Gonzalez,
23, of Mexico; and Ovidio Zapet-Lopez, 27, of Guatemala; were each charged
in separate indictments returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Springfield
on Jan. 22, 2003.
Read the News Release
January 23, 2003
Pharmacist sentenced for unlicensed wholesale distribution of drugs
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City pharmacist was sentenced today
for the wholesale distribution of prescription drugs without a license.
This case, Graves added, is the product of the same undercover investigation
that led to successful prosecutions in several earlier cases. Clarence
Herschel Winer, 70, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District
Judge Ortrie D. Smith this morning to three years of probation, including
six months of home detention and 600 hours of community service. The court
also imposed a fine of $100,000, which exceeds the level set forth in
the federal sentencing guidelines.
Read the News Release
January 23, 2003
Jury convicts felon for possessing several firearms
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man has been convicted by a federal
jury for violating federal firearms law. Gregory L. McCall, 44, of Kansas
City, was found guilty of being a felon in possession of a firearms by
a jury in the U.S. District Court on Jan. 22, 2003.
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January 22, 2003
Defendant indicted for bank robbery
SPRINGFIELD - A defendant was indicted by a federal grand jury
today for robbing Great Southern Bank. Larry Drew Jacques, 41, address
unknown, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury
meeting in Springfield.
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January 22, 2003
Defendant indicted for possession of stolen Corvette
SPRINGFIELD - A defendant was indicted by a federal grand jury
today for being in possession of stolen property. Willie B. Franklin,
27, address unknown, was charged in an indictment returned by a federal
grand jury in Springfield. The indictment alleges that Franklin was in
possession of a 2002 Chevrolet Corvette that had been transported in interstate
commerce, from the state of Florida to Missouri, after having been stolen.
Read the News Release
January 21, 2003
Two KC men indicted in crack cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Two Kansas City men were indicted by a federal
grand jury today on charges related to a conspiracy to distribute crack
cocaine. Dale M. Willis, 39, and Jerrill A. Green, 29, both of Kansas
City, Mo., were charged in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury
meeting in Kansas City.
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January 21, 2003
Three KC men indicted for firearms violations
KANSAS CITY - Three Kansas City men were indicted by a federal
grand jury today on separate and unrelated charges for being felons in
possession of firearms or ammunition. Donald F. Robinson, 27, of Kansas
City, Mo., was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of
a firearm in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in
Kansas City. Harmon E. Lawyer, 27, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged with
one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm in an indictment
returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City. Phillip E. Boose,
21, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged with one count of being a felon in
possession of ammunition in an indictment returned by a federal grand
jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
January 21, 2003
Jefferson City man sentenced for selling cocaine
JEFFERSON CITY - A Jefferson City man was sentenced today for
distributing cocaine. David Tybalt Woodruff, 28, of Jefferson City, was
sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to six months
of in-home confinement and three years of supervised release to include
substance abuse counseling.
Read the News Release
January 21, 2003
Jefferson City couple sentenced for meth conspiracy
JEFFERSON CITY - A husband and wife from Jefferson City were
sentenced today for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in Callaway
County, Mo. Gregory William Roberds, 39, and Angela Marie Roberds, 31,
of Jefferson City, were both sentenced by U.S. District Judge Scott O.
Wright this morning. Gregory Roberds and Angela Roberds were sentenced
to five years of probation and ordered to attend substance abuse counseling.
Read the News Release
January 21, 2003
KCK man indicted for intent to distribute meth
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today on charges of being in possession and intending to distribute
methamphetamine. Angelo A. Campos, 22, of Kansas City, Kan., was charged
in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City,
Mo.
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January 21, 2003
KC area man indicted for cashing counterfeit paychecks
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City area man was indicted by a federal
grand jury today for passing counterfeit paychecks at several local banks.
Eddie L. Hayes, 52, no known address, was charged in a six-count indictment
returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
January 21, 2003
Kidnapping convict sentenced for illegal possession of firearm
KANSAS CITY - A Columbia man with at least three prior felony
criminal convictions, including one for kidnapping, was sentenced today
for illegally possessing a loaded gun. Harold William Pruitt, 32, of Columbia,
Mo., was sentenced this morning by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
to two years and six months in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 17, 2003
Californian convicted for conspiring to distribute tons of marijuana
SPRINGFIELD - A California man has been convicted by a federal
jury for his role in a conspiracy to distribute large quantities of marijuana
in Jasper County. Luciano Martinez-Figueroa, 34, of Rialto, Calif., was
found guilty on Jan. 16, 2003, of one count of conspiracy to distribute
in excess of 100 kilograms of marijuana, and one count of possession with
intent to distribute in excess of 100 kilograms of marijuana.
Read the News Release
January 17, 2003
Independence man sentenced for robbing bank to buy RV
KANSAS CITY - An Independence, Mo., man was sentenced today
for robbing the Winterset State Bank in Harrisonville, Mo. He used the
cashier’s check taken in that robbery to purchase a recreational
vehicle, which he drove to South Dakota, where he was arrested. George
L. Curtis, 75, of Independence, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Howard F. Sachs this morning to five years and three months in federal
prison without parole. The court also ordered Curtis to pay full restitution
to Winterset State Bank and Trailside RV Center.
Audio
file for download (MP3 format)
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January 17, 2003
Two men sentenced for distributing crack cocaine
KANSAS CITY - Two men have been sentenced for distributing
crack cocaine. Alan M. Arnold, 47, of Independence, Mo., was sentenced
by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey on Jan. 16, 2003, to nine years
and seven months in federal prison without parole. Arnold agreed to forfeit
$7,815 acquired from the sale of the crack cocaine, Graves said. Robert
E. Huffman, 52, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge
Nanette K. Laughrey on Jan. 16, 2003, to seven years and three months
in federal prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 16, 2003
Belton man pleads guilty to bank robbery in Clinton
KANSAS CITY - A Belton, Mo., man pleaded guilty in federal
court today to the armed robbery of a bank in Clinton, Mo. Thomas Milton
Gaugh, 60, pleaded guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert E. Larsen
this afternoon to using a Smith & Wesson revolver to rob the U.S.
Bank, located at 115 E. Franklin St. in Clinton.
Read the News Release
January 16, 2003
Trenton man charged with federal firearm violation
KANSAS CITY - A Trenton, Mo., man has been charged in federal
court for being a felon in possession of firearms. The case, part of the
district's ongoing Project Ceasefire anti-crime initiative, is the result
of the work of the NITRO task force. David E. Briegel, 48, of Trenton,
Mo., is charged with being a felon in possession of a number of firearms
and ammunition, according to the criminal complaint filed in U.S. District
Court in Kansas City on Jan. 15, 2003.
Read the News Release
January 16, 2003
Kingsville man sentenced for distribution of meth ingredients
KANSAS CITY - A Kingsville, Mo., man was sentenced for distributing
methamphetamine ingredients. Eugene L. Joslin, 49, of Kingsville, was
sentenced on Jan. 16, 2002, by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey,
to two years and one month in prison without parole. On Sept. 18, 2002,
Graves said, Joslin pleaded guilty to distributing at least four pounds
of iodine between January 1998 and August 1999 for the purpose of manufacturing
methamphetamine.
Read the News Release
January 15, 2003
KC man sentenced for possessing gun after misdemeanor conviction
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced today for violating
a provision of federal law that prohibits anyone convicted of a misdemeanor
crime of domestic violence from possessing a firearm. Christopher W. Middaugh,
23, of Kansas City, Mo., was sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey to time served (from Oct. 2, 2002) until today,
with five years of probation and a special condition that he serve four
months in a halfway house.
Read the News Release
January 15, 2003
Six Daviess County residents indicted on federal related charges
KANSAS CITY - Six Daviess County residents have been indicted
by a federal grand jury on charges related to a conspiracy to manufacture
methamphetamine. Lisa R. Carnahan, 39, and Teresa A. Swigart, 43, both
of Winston, Mo., and Marvin L. Archer, 32, Christie L. Phillips, 33, Billie
L. Asher, 31, and James E. Hershberger, 25, all of Gallatin, Mo., were
charged in a three-count indictment returned under seal by a federal grand
jury in Kansas City on January 7, 2003.
Read the News Release
January 14, 2003
Two KC residents sentenced for crimes related to meth distribution
KANSAS CITY - A two co-defendants were sentenced today for
their involvement in the manufacture and distribution of methamphetamine.
William E. Howell, 45, also known as Fireman Bill, of Kansas City, was
sentenced this morning by U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey to one
year and three months in prison without parole. Alicia M. Burks, 25, of
Kansas City, was sentenced this morning by U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey to one year and one day in prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 10, 2003
Former business owner pleads guilty to tax fraud, stealing cable
KANSAS CITY - A former business owner in Rocky Mount, Mo.,
pleaded guilty today to tax fraud and assisting in the illegal interception
of cable systems services. James Grant Collins, 38, formerly of Morgan
County, Mo, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey
to a two-count federal information charging him with both crimes.
Read the News Release
January 10, 2003
Former bank teller pleads guilty to stealing $10,000 from customers
KANSAS CITY - A former bank teller pleaded guilty today to
stealing $10,000 from customers. Warren Young III, 25, of Lee’s
Summit, Mo, pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
this morning to theft from customers while he was a bank employee at North
American Savings Bank in Grandview, Mo.
Read the News Release
January 10, 2003
Business owner pleads guilty to bank fraud
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City businessman has pleaded guilty
to making false statements to a bank and to stealing funds from an employee
benefit plan. Thomas Dean Erickson, 43, former owner of Regency Stucco
and Drywall Company, located on Truman Road in Kansas City, Mo., pleaded
guilty to a three-count information before U.S. District Judge Nanette
K. Laughrey on January 9.
Read the News Release
January 9, 2003
Osage Beach resident indicted for possession of child pornography
JEFFERSON CITY - A defendant was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for possessing computer files, disks and photographs containing
what is considered child pornography. Larry H. Briesemeister, 58, of Osage
Beach, Mo., was charged in an indictment returned this afternoon by a
federal grand jury meeting in Jefferson City. The indictment alleges that
on August 11, 2002, in Camden County, Briesemeister did knowingly possess
computer files, disks and photographs containing visual depictions of
persons under the age of 18 engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
Read the News Release
January 9, 2003
Three men indicted for illegal re-entry into the United States
JEFFERSON CITY - Three Mexican nationals were indicted by a
federal grand jury today on separate and unrelated charges of not having
legally been admitted into the United States. All three men have previously
been deported from the country.
Read the News Release
January 9, 2003
Three defendants indicted on firearms violations
JEFFERSON CITY - Three defendants have been indicted by a federal
grand jury and charged in separate and unrelated cases as felons in possession
of firearms. Delarrence D. Cain, 22, of Columbia, Mo., was charged in
a two-count indictment returned today by a federal grand jury meeting
in Jefferson City. Wilmer Thomas Wilkerson, 53, was charged in a two-count
indictment returned today by a federal grand jury meeting in Jefferson
City. Kenneth Dale Sparks, 24, was charged in a one-count indictment returned
today by a federal grand jury meeting in Jefferson City.
Read the News Release
January 9, 2003
Fort Leonard Wood murder defendant indicted on another charge
JEFFERSON CITY - A woman who was indicted last month for a
murder that occurred at the Fort Leonard Wood Army base, now faces an
additional charge of attempted murder against a special agent with the
Federal Bureau of Investigation and a deputy with the Pulaski County Sheriff’s
Department. Barbara L. Turner, 29, of St. Robert, Mo., was charged in
a five-count superseding indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting
in Jefferson City.
Read the News Release
January 8, 2003
Customer service representative sentenced for defrauding employer
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City woman was sentenced today for fraudulently
obtaining new cellular and Sprint PCS telephones in the amount of $65,869.
Rasheedah Amina Bland, 25, was sentenced this morning by U.S. District
Judge Nanette K. Laughrey to one year and three months in prison without
parole. Bland also was ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $65,869.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Prison inmate sentenced for stabbing at medical center
SPRINGFIELD - An inmate at the U.S. Medical Center for Federal
Prisoners in Springfield was sentenced today for using a homemade weapon
to attack a fellow inmate. Steven Loren Scott, 51, who is currently serving
a 20-year sentence as a career offender convicted of armed bank robbery
in 1991, was sentenced this morning by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright
to 10 years and five months in prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Hollister, Mo., man sentenced for violating supervised release
SPRINGFIELD - A Hollister, Mo., man was sentenced today for
violating the terms of his supervised release on a federal child pornography
charge. John Christopher Cline, 37, of Hollister, Mo., was sentenced by
U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright this morning to two years in prison
without parole. According to Graves, that sentence is the maximum penalty
provided under federal law.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Joplin man sentenced for firearm violations
SPRINGFIELD - A Joplin, Mo., man was sentenced today for being
a felon in possession of a firearm. Jeffrey Greer, 36, of Joplin, Mo.,
was sentenced this afternoon by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright to
two years and six months in prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Independence man pleads guilty to defrauding insurance company
KANSAS CITY - An Independence man pleaded guilty today to defrauding
his insurance company by falsely reporting that his car was stolen. Barry
W. Jones, 28, of Independence, Mo., waived his right to a grand jury indictment
and pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan, Jr.,
this morning to a federal information that charges him with mail fraud.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
KC area man indicted for stealing $27,000 worth of auto parts
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City, Mo., area man was indicted by
a federal grand jury today for stealing more than $27,000 worth of motor
vehicle products. Kenny R. Borders, 32, of Kansas City, Mo., was charged
in an indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Former federal employee indicted for embezzling $45,000
KANSAS CITY - A former employee of the General Services Administration
was indicted by a federal grand jury today for embezzling more than $45,000.
William J. Shaw, 46, of Olathe, Kansas, was charged in an indictment returned
by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas City. The indictment alleges
that Shaw, a former accounting technician for the External Services Division
of the U.S. General Services Administration, embezzled cash receipts totaling
approximately $45,386 belonging to the National Archives and Records Administration.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Parkville man indicted on three bank robberies in Northland
KANSAS CITY - A Parkville man was indicted by a federal grand
jury today for robbing three Northland financial institutions in the same
week last month. Shawn M. Simmer, 27, of Parkville, Mo., was charged in
a three-count indictment returned by a federal grand jury meeting in Kansas
City. That indictment replaces a federal criminal complaint filed on December
12, 2002, which charged Simmer with robbing Bank of America in North Kansas
City.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Carthage man sentenced on drug charges
SPRINGFIELD - A Carthage, Mo., man was sentenced today for
his role in a conspiracy to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine in
Jasper County. Today’s sentencing is part of Operation Cocaine Cowboys,
which charged 36 federal defendants with illegal drug trafficking and
firearms sales in southwest Missouri. Antonio C. Macias, 33, of Carthage,
was sentenced this morning by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright to 10
years and one month in prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Former IRS employee pleads guilty to stealing money order
KANSAS CITY - A former employee of the Internal Revenue Service
pleaded guilty today to stealing a money order that had been sent to the
IRS for payment of taxes. James G. Ingram, 39, of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded
guilty before U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert E. Larsen this afternoon to
a federal information that charges him with theft of public money.
Read the News Release
January 7, 2003
Springfield man sentenced for bank robbery
SPRINGFIELD - A Springfield man was sentenced today for robbing
a federally insured bank. Dennis L. Sypolt, 41, of Springfield, Mo., was
sentenced this morning by U.S. District Judge Scott O. Wright to a maximum
20 years in prison without parole for robbing the Empire Bank, located
at 2501 North Kansas Expressway in Springfield.
Read the News Release
January 6, 2003
Raytown man sentenced on meth charges
KANSAS CITY - A Raytown, Mo., man was sentenced today for attempting
to manufacture methamphetamine. James C. Vandolah, 42, of Raytown, Mo.,
was sentenced this morning by U.S. District Chief Judge Dean Whipple to
eight years and four months in prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 6, 2003
Kansas City man sentenced on firearm violation
KANSAS CITY - A Kansas City man was sentenced today for being
a felon in possession of a firearm, in the continuing Project Ceasefire
anti-crime initiative. Claude E. Hyler, 36, of Kansas City, was sentenced
this morning by U.S. District Judge Fernando J. Gaitan Jr. to eight years
and four months in prison without parole.
Read the News Release
January 2, 2003
Two defendants plead guilty to cocaine conspiracy
KANSAS CITY - Two defendants pleaded guilty today to their
role in a conspiracy to distribute crack and powder cocaine. Jason L.
Tuberville, 32, and Robert Martin, 32, both of Kansas City, Mo., pleaded
guilty before U.S. District Judge Nanette K. Laughrey this afternoon to
conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of crack cocaine from January
1999 to June 27, 2002.
Read the News Release
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This section was last updated on July 29, 2004