St. Paul Field Division
Photo used under Creative Commons from flickr user akeg
Welcome to ATF’s St. Paul Field Division. From the pristine Lake Michigan shores of Wisconsin, extending west through Minnesota’s “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” and continuing to the Black Hills of South Dakota and the Badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota, the St. Paul Field Division has a large geographic area of responsibility. Our dedicated work force is comprised of special agents, investigators, auditors, technicians and support staff.
ATF’s St. Paul Field Division special agents combat firearms violence by focusing their investigative efforts on armed violent offenders, career criminals, gun traffickers and gangs. We also work in partnership with other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies throughout the field division to accomplish this mission. Some of our more notable investigations have been the Outlaws motorcycle gang, the Tre-Tre Crips and the Detroit Boys street gangs.
Employees of the ATF St. Paul Field Division are also very proactive in investigating violations of federal law pertaining to arson and explosives. Our high success rate of these investigations is a direct correlation of our close working relationship with the state and local fire departments and police bomb squads.
ATF also has the duty of regulating the firearms and explosives industries. Our industry operations investigators work to ensure that all firearms and explosives are stored, handled and sold in a safe manner according to law.
We encourage all residents to get involved and assist us in our goal of reducing crime in our communities. Give us a call and let us know what we can do for you. Our phone number is (651) 726-0200.
Bernard J. Zapor
Division Management Team
- Bernard J. Zapor
- Special Agent In Charge (SAC)
- Steven J. Bogdalek
- Assistant Special Agent In Charge (ASAC)
- Frederick J. Milanowski
- Assistant Special Agent In Charge (ASAC)
- Mary Jo Hughes
- Director of Industry Operations (DIO)
- Robert M. Schmidt
- Public Information Officer (PIO)
Division Contact Information
Receive St. Paul Press Release Updates
Fort Totten Man Sentenced on Federal Firearm Charge
January 4, 2012
FARGO — U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on Jan. 4, 2012, Shobie H. Shaw of Fort Totten, N.D., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ralph R. Erickson on a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.More »
Minneapolis Man Indicted for Possessing .40–Caliber Handgun, Drugs
December 21, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 37–year–old felon was indicted for allegedly possessing a .40–caliber handgun as well as cocaine, crack cocaine, and marijuana. Lamarco Trease Bell, of Minneapolis, was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, one count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana.More »
Big Lake Man Indicted for Possessing Two Nine–Millimeter Pistols
December 21, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 31–year–old felon was indicted for allegedly possessing two nine–millimeter pistols. Bryan Wallace Burford, of Big Lake, was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Decoteau Pleads Guilty to Burglary & Gun Charges
December 20, 2011
MINOT — U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on Dec. 19, 2011, Brandin Decoteau, 23, of Bismarck, N.D., pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to a charge of burglary and possession of a stolen firearm.More »
Two Men Sentenced for Armed Robbery of New Brighton Gas Station
December 15, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Yesterday in federal court in St. Paul, two Twin Cities metro area men were sentenced for committing the armed robbery of a New Brighton gas station on January 12, 2011. United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank sentenced Terry Lamar Roberts, Jr., age 23, of Fridley, to 192 months in prison on one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and one count of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act. Judge Frank also sentenced Theodore Julius Collins, age 26, of Minneapolis, to 84 months on one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. The men, who were indicted on February 15, 2011. Roberts pleaded guilty on April 22, 2011, and Collins pleaded guilty on May 2, 2011.More »
Aitkin Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine
December 13, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – This afternoon in federal court in Minneapolis, an Aitkin man was sentenced for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine in Minnesota from 2008 through September of 2010. United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis sentenced Robert Garcia, age 42, to 240 months in prison on one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of aiding and abetting the distribution of methamphetamine. Judge Davis also ordered Garcia to have no contact with members of the El Forastero motorcycle gang. Garcia was indicted on October 5, 2010, along with three codefendants. He was convicted on February 18, 2011, following a four-day trial.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
December 8, 2011
Madison, Wisconsin – A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments yesterday. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Golden Valley Felon Sentenced for Possessing Two Semi-Automatic Handguns
December 7, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 40-year-old felon from Golden Valley was sentenced for possessing a .10-caliber, semi-automatic pistol and a nine-millimeter pistol. United States District Court Judge Patrick J. Schiltz sentenced Lashawn Kenyatta Nicks to 84 months in federal prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Nicks was indicted on November 2, 2010, and pleaded guilty on March 7, 2011.More »
St. Paul Felon Sentenced for Possessing a Firearm and Possessing With Intent to Distribute Ecstasy and Marijuana
December 6, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court, a 38-year-old St. Paul felon was sentenced for possessing with intent to distribute marijuana and the semi-synthetic psychedelic drug MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced Samuel Lamont Seals to 82 months in prison on one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and MDMA, along with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Seals was indicted on January 19, 2011, and pleaded guilty on May 2, 2011.More »
ATF Offers $5,000 Reward in Yellow Bird’s Robbery
December 5, 2011
ST. PAUL, Minn. – A reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and convictions of those responsible for a recent armed robbery at Yellow Bird’s, a Pine Ridge, S.D. convenience store, was announced today by Bernard J. Zapor, Special Agent in Charge of the St. Paul Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).More »
Brandon Felon Sentenced as Armed Career Criminal for Possessing a 12-Gauge Shotgun and .22-Caliber Rifle
December 2, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in Duluth, a felon from the west-central Minnesota community of Brandon was sentenced as an armed career criminal for possessing two firearms. United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Jeffrey Allen Stoltz, age 49, to 210 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Stoltz was indicted on March 15, 2011, and was convicted on July 27, 2011.More »
Fridley Felon Sentenced for Possessing a .357 Revolver
December 2, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a felon from Fridley was sentenced for possessing a .357-caliber revolver. United States District Court Judge Patrick J. Schiltz sentenced Roger Bruce Bugh, age 43, to 188 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was indicted on February 24, 2011, and convicted on June 16, 2011.More »
Madison Man Sentenced for Selling Crack Cocaine
December 1, 2011
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Kevin Tolbert, 34, of Madison, Wis., was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb to seven years in prison without parole for selling crack cocaine. This prison term will be followed by four years of supervised release. Tolbert pleaded guilty to this charge on June 15, 2011.More »
Box Elder Man Sentenced for Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm
November 30, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Box Elder, South Dakota, man charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on November 28, 2011, by United States District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. Gene Edward Taranto, age 32, was sentenced to 27 months’ custody, 3 years of supervised release, and a $100 special assessment to the Victim Assistance Fund.More »
Hawley Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing Eight Firearms
November 28, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a man from the northwestern community of Hawley was sentenced for possessing eight firearms illegally. United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank sentenced Timothy Lloyal Burnside, age 49, to 30 months in prison on one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. Burnside was indicted on May 18, 2011, and pleaded guilty on July 25, 2011.More »
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced for Possessing a Nine–Millimeter Pistol
November 22, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 35–year–old felon was sentenced for possessing a nine–millimeter pistol. United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen sentenced Jesse Lamond Jones, no known address, to 300 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jones was indicted on December 14, 2010, and was convicted on July 8, 2011. According to the indictment and evidence presented at trial, Jones was arrested in connection with a series of four shootings in St. Cloud that occurred between April 23 and May 10, 2010.More »
St. Cloud Felon Sentenced for Possessing a .38–Caliber Handgun
November 22, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 30–year–old St. Cloud felon was sentenced for possessing a .38–caliber handgun. United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery sentenced Aaron Dante Moreno to 180 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Moreno was indicted on May 18, 2011, and pleaded guilty on August 9, 2011. In his plea agreement, Moreno admitted that on October 4, 2010, he possessed the pistol and brandished it in order to gain entry to a St. Cloud residence.More »
News report highlights St. Paul Field Division Straw Purchasing Investigation
November 18, 2011
FRANKLIN--Deer hunters aren't the only ones buying guns at a local sporting goods stores. According to federal agents people are buying guns specifically for criminals. More »
Two Redby Men Plead Guilty in Connection to November Killing
November 17, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, two men from the town of Redby pleaded guilty in connection to the November 3, 2010, killing of one man and the wounding of two others on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. On the day their jury trial was scheduled to begin, Donald Leigh Clark, Jr., age 23, pleaded guilty to one count of discharge of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, specifically the shooting of Julian Keith DeMarrias. Clark’s co–defendant Cruze Anthony White, age 23, pleaded guilty to one count of voluntary manslaughter for aiding and abetting Clark. The men were indicted on January 19, 2011, and entered their pleas before United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
November 16, 2011
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Dodge Man Sentenced for Firearm Charges
November 16, 2011
BISMARCK — United States Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on November 14, 2011, Dustin Wolff, 36, of Dodge, North Dakota, was sentenced by United States District Court Judge Patrick A. Conmy on a charge of possession of an illegal firearm and a charge of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon.More »
Minneapolis Man Indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine
November 9, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 35-year-old Minneapolis man was indicted for conspiring to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine. Jose Guillen was specifically charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine, four counts of distribution of cocaine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.More »
Beloit Man Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a Firearm
November 4, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Robert Tucker, 25, of Beloit, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to two years in federal prison for possessing a firearm after having previously been convicted of a felony offense. Tucker pleaded guilty to the charge on August 4, 2011.More »
Another Armed Career Criminal Sentenced as Part of Project Exile Minneapolis
November 1, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 46–year–old Minneapolis felon was sentenced for possessing a .44–magnum revolver. United States District Court Judge David S. Doty sentenced Michael Edward Willis to 180 months in prison on one count of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm. Willis was indicted on January 11, 2011, and pleaded guilty on May 31, 2011. In his plea agreement, Willis admitted possessing the revolver on October 19, 2010.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
October 28, 2011
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, has returned the following indictments. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Minneapolis Man Pleads Guilty to Smuggling AK-47 Parts to Paraguay
October 27, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 30-year-old Minneapolis man pleaded guilty to smuggling AK-47 components to Paraguay. Fabian Patricio Lojano-Lojano pleaded guilty to one count of smuggling goods from the United States. Lojano-Lojano, whowas charged on October 12, 2011, entered his plea before U.S. District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle.More »
Another Career Criminal Sentenced as Part of Project Exile Minneapolis
October 26, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 31-year-old felon from Minneapolis was sentenced for possessing a .44-caliber handgun earlier this year. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced Adonis Adolph Dorman to 180 months in prison on one count of being a career criminal in possession of a firearm. Dorman was indicted on November 17, 2010, and pleaded guilty on April 13, 2011.More »
Madison Man Sentenced for Receiving a Firearm While Awaiting Trial for a State Felony Crime
October 20, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Carmelo Salgado–Lopez, 20, Madison, Wis., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 21 months in prison without the possibility of parole for receiving a firearm while charged in state court with a felony. Salgado–Lopez pleaded guilty to this charge on July 21, 2011.More »
Felon Sentenced for Possessing .380-Caliber Pistol, Latest in Minneapolis Project Exile Campaign
October 13, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 27-year-old felon was sentenced for possessing a .380-caliber pistol. United States District Court Judge Susan Richard Nelson sentenced Ricky Clarance Carter, no known address, to 84 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Carter was indicted on March 16, 2011, and pleaded guilty on June 30, 2011.More »
Bemidji Felon Indicted for Possessing a .357 Revolver
October 12, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 27–year–old felon from Bemidji was indicted for possessing a .357–caliber revolver. The indictment charges Edward McCabe Robinson with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on August 28, 2011, Robinson possessed the gun.More »
Falcon Heights Felon Pleads Guilty to Using a Firearm to Rob a Dunn Bros Coffee Shop
October 7, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court in St. Paul, a 39-year-old Falcon Heights man pleaded guilty to possessing and using a firearm to commit the armed robbery of a Dunn Bros coffee shop in the Uptown neighborhood of Minneapolis on October 27, 2010. Carlos Maurice Harris pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Harris, who was indicted along with Ronald Harold Moore on December 7, 2010, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle.More »
Twenty-Seven Indicted for Distributing Controlled Substances in the Twin Ports’ Area
September 29, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal indictment unsealed late yesterday charges 27 people with conspiring to distribute controlled substances, including oxycodone, oxymorphone, and heroin in the Twin Ports’ area of Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin. The indictment, which was filed on September 20, 2011, charges the defendants with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. The indictment was unsealed following the initial appearance of 25 of the defendants in federal court. Of the 25 defendants, 11 have been preliminary detained pending further proceedings. In addition, one defendant is in state custody while another turned himself in to authorities in Colorado.More »
Rochester Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of Three McDonald’s
September 27, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 24–year–old Rochester man pleaded guilty to charges stemming from the armed robbery of McDonald’s restaurants in Byron, Rochester, and Winona. Christian Aaron Alexander specifically pleaded guilty to three counts of interference with commerce by robbery, in violation of the Hobbs Act, and one count of brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. Alexander, who was charged on September 8, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank.More »
Duluth Man Indicted for Distributing Narcotics
September 22, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal indictment unsealed late yesterday charges a 34-year-old Duluth man with possessing with intent to distribute Opana, which contains the controlled substance oxymorphone. The indictment, which was filed on August 17, 2011, charges Jeremy Dionne Norvell with one count of possession with intent to distribute Opana. The indictment was unsealed following Norvell’s initial appearance in federal court.More »
Wausau Man Sentenced for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon
September 21, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Morgan Sykes, 34, Wausau, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 37 months in prison, followed by a three–year term of supervised release, for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Sykes pleaded guilty to this charge on July 19, 2011.More »
Kenosha Man Charged with Arson in Early Morning Duplex Fire
September 20, 2011
United States Attorney James L. Santelle announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in the Eastern District of Wisconsin has returned a two–count indictment against Johnny Zavaleta (age: 24), of Kenosha. He is accused of committing the early morning August 11, 2011, arson of a duplex located in the 1700 block of 50th Street in Kenosha.More »
Duluth Man Sentenced for Possessing with Intent to Distribute Crack Cocaine
September 14, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in Duluth, a 37–year–old Duluth man was sentenced on illegal firearms and drug charges. United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Roy Milburn Caskey, Jr., to 120 months in prison on one count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine and one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug–trafficking crime. Caskey was indicted on January 11, 2011, and pleaded guilty on February 17, 2011.More »
Redby Man Indicted for Possessing a Stolen 12–Gauge Shotgun
September 13, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, an 18–year–old Redby man was indicted for possessing a stolen 12–gauge shotgun. The indictment charges Damien Charles Jones with one count of possession of a stolen firearm and one count of possession of an unregistered short–barreled shotgun.More »
Armed Career Criminal Indicted for Possessing a Firearm
September 12, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court, a 22-year-old armed career criminal was indicted for possessing a nine-millimeter pistol. The indictment charges Corey James Benjamin, no known address, with one count of possession of a firearm by an armed career criminal.More »
Rochester Man Charged for Robbing Three McDonald’s
September 12, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Recently in federal court in St. Paul, a 24-year-old Rochester man was charged in connection with the armed robbery of McDonald’s restaurants in Byron, Rochester and Winona that occurred in September of 2010 and June of 2011. On September 8, 2011, Christian Aaron Alexander was charged via an Information with three counts of interference with commerce by robbery, in violation of the Hobbs Act, and one count of brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence.More »
ATF ANNOUNCES $5,000 REWARD IN GUN THEFT
September 12, 2011
ST. PAUL, Minn. – ATF is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the theft of firearms from Fletcher Arms, Waukesha, Wis., announced Special Agent in Charge Bernard J. Zapor of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) St. Paul Field Division,More »
Madison Man Sentenced to Six Years for Armed Robbery
September 8, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Peter Zimmer, 29, Madison, was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to six years in prison, to be followed by a three–year term of supervised release, for his role in the December 2010 armed robbery of the Speedway gas station, 4902 Verona Road, Madison. Zimmer pleaded guilty to this charge on July 19, 2011.More »
Felon Sentenced for Possessing a .22–Caliber Revolver
September 8, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Yesterday in federal court in St. Paul, a 42–year–old felon was sentenced for possessing a .22–caliber revolver. On September 7, 2011, United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Robert Ellis Hastings, of Cascade Township in Olmsted County, to 180 months on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hastings was indicted on January 19, 2011, and pleaded guilty on June 13, 2011.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
September 7, 2011
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Red Lake Felon sentenced for Possessing a Firearm
September 1, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 24-year-old felon from Red Lake was sentenced to federal prison for possessing a .24-caliber rifle and a nine-millimeter pistol in July of 2010 and a .22-caliber rifle in November of 2010. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced Fabian Wayne English to 110 months in prison on three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. English pleaded guilty to the crimes on May 25, 2011.More »
Madison Man Sentenced for Role in Robbery
August 30, 2011
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Bulent Dzelil, 25, Madison, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 5 years in prison, followed by a three-year term of supervised release, for his role in the robbery of Midwest Jewelers, Monona.More »
12 Individuals Plead Guilty as a Result of Operation Pitchfork
August 23, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – After a year-long law enforcement investigation, known as Operation Pitchfork, 12 individuals have pleaded guilty in connection with drug-trafficking operations in the Twin Cities. Yesterday in federal court, just before his trial was scheduled to begin, Luis A. Mendoza-Cabrera, of St. Paul, pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 or more grams of methamphetamine. Mendoza-Cabrera, age 24, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen. Mendoza-Cabrera, who was indicted along with 11 codefendants on February 24, 2011, entered a plea without a written plea agreement. Two of his co-defendants are fugitives, while the other nine already have pleaded guilty to roles in the drug operation.More »
Washington Woman Sentenced on Firearm Charge
August 22, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Washington woman charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on August 22, 2011, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. Heather Stahlhoefer, age 24, was sentenced to 48 months of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, a $100 victim assessment, and $9,391.87 in restitution.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
August 19, 2011
Madison, Wisconsin – A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments yesterday. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Three Indicted for Armed Robbery of Arden Hills Bingo Hall
August 18, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, three individuals were indicted in connection with the May 21, 2011, armed robbery of the Pot O’ Gold Bingo Hall in Arden Hills. Corinthian John Reese, age 22; Glenn Everett Graddy, age 36; and Nicole McDaniel, age 29, all with no known address, were charged with one count of conspiracy to possess a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime, one count of aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime, one count of conspiracy to interfere with commerce by robbery, and one count of interference with commerce by robbery, both in violation of the Hobbs Act. In addition, Reese was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Porcupine Man Sentenced for Arson
August 12, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Porcupine man charged with Arson was sentenced on August 12, 2011, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. Milton Mesteth, age 28, was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment, five years of supervised release, restitution, and a $100 victim assessment.More »
Robbinsdale Man Sentenced to 22 Years in Prison for Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine and Marijuana
August 12, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 38-year-old Robbinsdale man was sentenced for conspiring to distribute approximately 1.48 kilograms of cocaine and eight kilograms of marijuana. United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen sentenced Marlon Terrell Collins to 264 months in prison on one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana. Collins was indicted on December 7, 2010, and pleaded guilty on April 13, 2011. In his plea agreement, Collins admitted that from June of 2010 through September 3, 2010, he conspired with others to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine and eight kilograms of marijuana.More »
Summerset Man Makes Initial Appearance on Firearm Charge
August 11, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Summerset, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for unlawfully possessing a firearm.More »
Inver Grove Heights Man Indicted for Armed Robbery of White Bear Lake and Maplewood Convenience Stores
August 9, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 21–year–old Inver Grove Heights man was indicted in connection with the June 14, 2011, armed robberies of SuperAmerica stores in Maplewood and White Bear Lake. Joseph Laurence Forliti was charged with two counts of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, which, in this case, carries a potential maximum penalty of life in prison. Forliti also was charged with two counts of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act. The indictment alleges that on June 14, 2011, Forliti took money from the stores by threatening the store clerks with a firearm.More »
St. Cloud Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing a .38-Caliber Handgun
August 9, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 30-year-old St. Cloud felon pleaded guilty to possessing a .38-caliber handgun. Specifically, Aaron Dante Moreno pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Moreno, who was indicted on May 18, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery. In his plea agreement, Moreno admitted that on October 4, 2010, he possessed the pistol and brandished it in order to gain entry to a St. Cloud residence.More »
Beloit Man Sentenced for Gun Crime
August 9, 2011
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Darius Kilgore, 23, Beloit, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 14 months in prison for illegally obtaining a firearm in Mississippi and transporting it to Wisconsin. Kilgore pleaded guilty to this charge on May 11, 2011.More »
Rapid City Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
August 8, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Anthony Shane Anderson, age 21, of Rapid City, South Dakota, appeared before United States District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on August 8, 2011, and pled guilty to count I of an indictment that charged him with Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.More »
Brooklyn Park Felon Sentenced for Possessing Nine–Millimeter Pistol
August 5, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 40–year–old felon from Brooklyn Park was sentenced for possessing a nine–millimeter pistol. United States District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson sentenced Leroy Anthony Meadows to 87 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Meadows was indicted on March 15, 2011, and pleaded guilty on April 21, 2011.More »
Sommerset Man Indicted for Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm
August 1, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Sommerset, South Dakota, man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for unlawfully possessing a firearm.More »
Federal Jury Convicts Brandon Felon for Possessing a 12–Gauge Shotgun and .22–Caliber Rifle
July 28, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Yesterday in federal court in Duluth, a jury found a felon from the westcentral community of Brandon, Minnesota, guilty of possessing two firearms. On July 27, 2011, Jeffrey Allen Stoltz, age 48, was convicted on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Stoltz was indicted on March 15, 2011.More »
Final Sentencing in Grampa’s Gunshop Burglary
July 26, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Antonio Parker, 20, Chicago, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 40 months in prison, without the possibility of parole, for stealing 20 firearms from Grampa’s Gun Shop, 1374 Williamson Street, Madison, on March 13, 2010. Parker pleaded guilty to this charge on April 28, 2011.More »
Monroe Man Sentenced for Possessing a Firearm and Ammunition While Under a Domestic Abuse Restraining Order
July 26, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that John Karls, 47, Monroe, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to two years in prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition while under a domestic abuse restraining order. Karls pleaded guilty to this offense on May 20, 2011.More »
Career Criminal From St. Paul Sentenced For Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm
July 26, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 42-year-old St. Paul career criminal was sentenced for possessing a firearm. United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen sentenced Theodore Stevie Varner to 235 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was indicted on November 1, 2010, and was convicted by a jury on March 3, 2011.More »
Hawley Man Pleads Guilty to Illegally Possessing Three Firearms
July 25, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in Duluth, a man from the northwestern community of Hawley pleaded guilty to possessing three firearms illegally. Timothy Lloyal Burnside, age 48, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in connection to the crime. Burnside, who was indicted on May 18, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank.More »
Minneapolis Career Criminal Sentenced for Possessing a .32–Caliber Revolver and Ammunition
July 21, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today, a career criminal was sentenced in federal court for possessing a .32–caliber revolver and ammunition. United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis sentenced Eugene Maurice Clanton, age 36, of Minneapolis, to 224 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Clanton was indicted on December 15, 2010, and pleaded guilty on February 11, 2011.More »
Madison Man Sentenced to 13 Years for Armed Robbery
July 20, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Kiwanta Ali, 21, Madison, Wis., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 13 years in prison, for committing an armed robbery of the Speedway gas station, 4902 Verona Road, Madison, in December 2010. Ali pleaded guilty to the robbery, and brandishing a shotgun in furtherance of the robbery, on May 22, 2011.More »
Savage Man Sentenced For Possessing Firearms and Explosives
July 20, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 50-year-old Savage man was sentenced for possessing a machine gun and distributing explosives. United States District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson sentenced Wesley Noah Banks to 151 months in prison on one count of illegal possession of a machine gun and one count of illegal distribution of explosive materials.More »
18 Arrested in Crime Sweep on Milwaukee’s North Side
July 15, 2011
MILWAUKEE — During the past week more than 80 law enforcement officers fanned out across the north side of Milwaukee, arresting 18 targets for various federal and state criminal violations. Additionally, seven state search warrants were executed and additional evidence, including narcotics, firearms and ammunition was recovered.More »
Wisconsin Felon Sentenced for Possessing Firearm and Methamphetamine
July 14, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 32-year-old felon from Amery, Wisconsin, was sentenced for possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced John Philip Schanon to a total of 120 months in prison on the two charges.More »
Felon Sentenced in Minneapolis Project Exile Case
July 13, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 30–year–old felon from Minneapolis was sentenced for possessing a nine–millimeter Glock semi–automatic handgun. United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank sentenced Kevin Devon Wallace to 74 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Wallace was indicted on October 13, 2010, and pleaded guilty on January 28, 2011.More »
Minneapolis Man Sentenced for Being a Career Criminal in Possession of a Firearm
July 13, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 38–year–old felon from Minneapolis was sentenced for being a career criminal in possession of a 12–gauge shotgun. United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank sentenced Jeff Parker to 180 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Because of Parker’s extensive criminal history, his sentence was enhanced under the Armed Career Criminal Act. Parker was indicted on October 18, 2010, and convicted by a jury on February 15, 2011. Trial evidence proved that Parker possessed the shotgun on February 24, 2010.More »
Federal Jury Convicts Armed Career Criminal for Possessing a Nine-Millimeter Pistol
July 11, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Recently in federal court, a jury found a 35-year-old felon guilty of possessing a nine-millimeter pistol. On July 8, 2011, following a four-day trial, Jesse Lamond Jones, no known address, was convicted on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Jones was indicted on December 14, 2010.More »
Tomah Man Sentenced to 57 Months in Mail Fraud Through Arson Scheme
June 24, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Darnell L. Rockette, 34, Tomah, Wis., was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 57 months in prison for a mail fraud through arson scheme.More »
Federal Jury Convicts Fridley Felon for Possessing a .357 Revolver
June 16, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a jury found a felon from Fridley guilty of possessing a .357–caliber revolver. Following a three–day trial, Roger Bruce Bugh, age 42, was convicted on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was indicted on February 24, 2011.More »
Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing a .22-Caliber Revolver
June 13, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 42-year-old felon pleaded guilty to possessing a .22-caliber revolver. Robert Ellis Hastings, of Cascade Township in Olmsted County, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Hastings, who was indicted on January 19, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle.More »
Minneapolis Felon Sentenced to 15 Years for Possessing a .357-Caliber Revolver
June 10, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 36-year-old felon from Minneapolis was sentenced for possessing a .357-caliber revolver. United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery sentenced Kendrick Lee Robbins to 180 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Robbins was indicted on November 17, 2010, and pleaded guilty on February 25, 2011.More »
Felon sentenced for possessing a .45-caliber pistol
June 10, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 28-year-old felon was sentenced for possessing a .45-caliber, semi-automatic pistol. United States District Court Judge David S. Doty sentenced Willie Brown, Jr., no known address, to 30 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Brown was indicted on August 3, 2010, and pleaded guilty on January 10, 2011.More »
Felon Sentenced as Armed Career Criminal in Project Exile Minneapolis Gun Case
June 9, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 38-year-old Minneapolis felon was sentenced for possessing a firearm. United States District Court Judge David S. Doty ordered Mandel McDonald Benson to serve 235 months in federal prison after earlier being found guilty by a jury on one count of felon in possession of a firearm. Because of his extensive, violent criminal history, Benson was sentenced as an armed career criminal. As such, the minimum sentence the court could impose was 15 years. Since the federal legal system does not have parole, Benson will serve virtually the entire sentence imposed by Judge Doty. Benson was indicted on October 5, 2010, and was convicted on February 10, 2011.More »
Final Defendant Pleads Guilty in Connection with the Armed Robbery of a White Bear Lake Bar
June 2, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in the District of Minnesota, a 41–year–old St. Paul man pleaded guilty in connection with the November 27, 2010, armed robbery of a White Bear Lake bar. Maurice Anthony Lewis pleaded guilty to one count of interference of commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act, and one count of aiding and abetting the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Lewis, who was indicted on April 20, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen. Two codefendants have already pleaded guilty.More »
Felon pleads guilty to possessing a .40–caliber pistol
June 1, 2011
ST. PAUL — Yesterday in federal court, John Lee Bartel, a 33–year–old felon with no known address, pleaded guilty to possessing a .40–caliber, semi–automatic pistol from March 30, 2011 until April 20, 2011. Bartel, who was charged on May 17, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank.More »
Another Armed Career Criminal Pleads Guilty as Part of Project Exile Minneapolis
June 1, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Yesterday in federal court, a 46–year–old Minneapolis felon pleaded guilty to possessing a .44 magnum revolver. Michael Edward Willis pleaded guilty to one count of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm. Willis, who was indicted on January 11, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge David S. Doty.More »
Felon Pleads Guilty in Connection with the Armed Robbery of a White Bear Lake Bar
May 27, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in the District of Minnesota, a felon pleaded guilty in connection with the November 27, 2010, armed robbery of a White Bear Lake bar. Percy Davis Peters, unknown age and address, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence. Peters, who was indicted on February 8, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen. One of his two co–defendants has already pleaded guilty, and prosecution continues against the third.More »
Felon pleads guilty in connection with the armed robbery of a White Bear Lake Bar
May 24, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in the District of Minnesota, a felon pleaded guilty in connection with the November 27, 2010, armed robbery of a White Bear Lake bar. Tyice Alexander Phillips, age 33, no known address, pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of violence and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Phillips, who was charged on March 21, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen. Prosecution continues against Phillips's two codefendants. More »
Porcupine Man Pleads Guilty to Arson
May 24, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Milton James Mesteth, age 28, of Porcupine, appeared before US District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on May 23, 2011, and pled guilty to Count I of an Indictment that charged him with Arson. The maximum penalty upon conviction is life imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.More »
Porcupine Man Sentenced for Possessing a Firearm Illegally
May 24, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Porcupine man charged with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person was sentenced on May 23, 2011, by US District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. Gilbert Blue Bird, age 42, was sentenced to eight months of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $100 victim assessment.More »
Hugo Man Indicted for Armed Robbery of Falcon Heights Liquor Store
May 18, 2011
ST. PAUL — Yesterday in federal court, an indictment was unsealed charging a 19–year–old Hugo man for the February 23, 2011, armed robbery of J’s Liquors in Falcon Heights. Cody Joseph Diaz was charged with one count of use of a firearm during a crime of violence, pursuant to the Hobbs Act. The indictment, which was filed on May 11, 2011, was unsealed following Diaz’s initial appearance in court.More »
Felon Charged for Possessing a .40-Caliber Pistol
May 17, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, John Lee Bartel, a 33-year-old felon with no known address, was charged with one count of possessing a firearm. According to the Information filed in the case, Bartel possessed a 40-caliber, semi-automatic pistol on March 20, 2011.More »
Fridley Felon Federally Indicted for Armed Robbery of Columbia Heights Convenience Store
May 16, 2011
MINNEAPOLIS — A 34–year–old felon from Fridley was recently indicted in connection with the March 11, 2011, armed robbery of the Totem Superette in Columbia Heights. On May 11, 2011, Jimmy Earl Matthews was charged with one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, which, in this case, carries a potential maximum sentence of life in prison. Matthews also was charged with one count of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act, as well as one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. On May 13, 2011, Matthews had his initial appearance in federal court.More »
Milwaukee Man Charged with Arson by Explosion and other Crimes Connected to Fire that Destroyed Pizza Man Restaurant and other Businesses
May 10, 2011
United States Attorney James L. Santelle announced today that a federal grand jury sitting in the Eastern District of Wisconsin has returned a multi–count indictment against Feras Rahman (age: 27), of Milwaukee. The indictment alleges that Rahman committed the January 19, 2010, arson of the building formerly located at 1800 – 1814 East North Avenue in Milwaukee. This building housed Rahman’s restaurant, The Black and White Café and also three other restaurants on the first level, including The Pizza Man, and numerous residential apartments on the second level. The building was razed as a result of the fire, and the loss was estimated to be in excess of $3 million.More »
St. Paul Felon Sentenced for Possessing a .38 Caliber Revolver
May 10, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 21–year–old felon from St. Paul was sentenced for possessing a .38 caliber revolver on January 29, 2010. United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery sentenced Jerel Valdez Martin to 66 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Martin was indicted on July 6, 2010, and pleaded guilty on January 27, 2011.More »
St. Paul Felon Sentenced for Possessing a .357 Revolver
May 10, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 30–year–old felon from St. Paul was sentenced for possessing a .357 revolver on May 13, 2010. United States District Court Judge Patrick J. Schiltz sentenced Glenn Dale Acon, Jr. to 65 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Acon was indicted on June 8, 2010, and pleaded guilty on December 9, 2010.More »
Two Law Enforcement Agents Commended
May 6, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, has recognized Madison Police Detective Cory Nelson and Special Agent William Baudhuin (Bo – dwin) of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) for their efforts in a major violent crime investigation.More »
Rapid City Man Sentenced for Making a False Statement During an Attempted Purchase of a Firearm
May 4, 2011
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rapid City man charged with False Statement During Attempted Purchase of a Firearm was sentenced on May 2, 2011, by United States District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. Easton L. Mercy, age 20, was sentenced to one year of probation and a $100 special assessment to the Victim Assistance Fund.More »
Duluth felon sentenced for possessing a firearm
May 4, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Duluth, a 32-year-old felon from Duluth was sentenced for possessing a Smith & Wesson .40-caliber pistol. United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis sentenced Nicholas James Worden to 60 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Worden was indicted on September 9, 2010, and pleaded guilty on December 14, 2010.More »
Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Ten Firearms
May 4, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Duluth, a 29–year–old felon from Red Lake pleaded guilty to possessing ten firearms. Michael Vernon Lussier pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Lussier, who was indicted on January 11, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis.More »
White Bear Lake Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing a .357–Revolver
April 26, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 35–year–old White Bear Lake man pleaded guilty to possessing a .357–caliber revolver on September 27, 2010. James Michael Diederich pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Diederich, who was indicted on December 21, 2010, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Patrick J. Schiltz.More »
Armed Career Criminal Sentenced for Possessing a .22–Caliber Revolver
April 25, 2011
Earlier today in St. Paul, a 43–year–old armed career criminal was sentenced for possessing a .22–caliber Rohm revolver. United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank sentenced Michael James Constantine, of St. Paul, to 215 months in prison on one count of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm. Constantine was indicted on June 8, 2010, and was convicted on December 2, 2010, following a four–day trial.More »
Brooklyn Park Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Nine-Millimeter Pistol
April 21, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 40-year-old felon from Brooklyn Park pleaded guilty to possessing a nine-millimeter pistol. Leroy Anthony Meadows pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Meadows, who was indicted on March 15, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson.More »
Project Exile Felon Pleads Guilty
April 19, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 35–year–old felon from Minneapolis pleaded guilty to possessing a .25–caliber, semi–automatic pistol on July 16, 2010. Reginald Allen Schwab, also known as Snake, pleaded guilty to one count of felon in possession of a firearm. Schwab, who was indicted on December 14, 2010, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim.More »
ATF Announces Up To $5,000 Reward for Information on Downtown Atwater Arson
April 18, 2011
ST. PAUL – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) St. Paul Field Division Special Agent in Charge Bernard J. Zapor announced today the posting of an award of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible for the arson fire that destroyed three downtown businesses in Atwater, Minn.More »
Robbinsdale Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine and Marijuana
April 13, 2011
A 38–year–old Robbinsdale man pleaded guilty earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis to conspiring to distribute approximately 1.48 kilograms of cocaine and eight kilograms of marijuana last year. Appearing before United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen, Marlon Terrell Collins pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana. Collins was indicted on December 7, 2010.More »
Brooklyn Park Felon Sentenced for Possessing a .22 Caliber Pistol
April 13, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 30–year–old felon for possessing a .22 caliber Derringer pistol. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced Jimmy Pierre Synkiew, of Brooklyn Park, to 36 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Synkiew was indicted on December 16, 2009, and was convicted by a jury on June 30, 2010, following a two–day trial.More »
Maplewood Felon Indicted for Possessing a .32–Caliber Revolver
April 13, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 33–year–old felon from Maplewood was indicted for allegedly possessing a loaded .32–caliber revolver on January 25, 2011. The indictment charges Derek Lee Preston with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Three Individuals Plead Guilty to Possessing Firearms, Six Others Plead to Distributing Crack Cocaine
April 6, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 23–year–old St. Cloud man pleaded guilty to aiding other felons in the possession of a firearm. Victor Cortez Shelton specifically pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and abetting a felon in possession of a firearm. Shelton, who was indicted along with eight co–defendants on November 1, 2010, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery.More »
Wisconsin Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearm, Methamphetamine
April 5, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 32-year-old felon from Amery, Wisconsin, pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. John Philip Schanon pleaded guilty to the two charges before United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim.More »
Madison Man Sentenced to 188 Months for Armed Robbery
March 29, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Carl Potts, 30, Madison, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 188 months in prison, without the possibility of parole, for his role in the armed robbery of Steve’s Liquor store on May 10, 2010. Potts pleaded guilty to this charge on December 29, 2010.More »
Man Indicted Under the Hobbs Act for Carjacking a Taxi
March 25, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 50–year-old Savage man pleaded guilty to possessing a machine gun and distributing explosives. Wesley Noah Banks pleaded guilty to one count of illegal possession of a machine gun and one count of illegal distribution of explosive materials. Banks, who was charged on February 14, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson.More »
Savage Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearms and Explosives
March 24, 2011
Earlier this week, a federal grand jury in Minneapolis indicted a 43-year-old man for allegedly carjacking an Airport Taxi taxicab on January 29, 2011. Antonius Brett El-X, address unknown, was charged under the Hobbs Act with one count of interference with commerce by robbery. He remains in custody.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
March 23, 2011
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Brandon Felon Indicted for Possessing 12–Gauge Shotgun, .22–Caliber Rifle
March 22, 2011
A felon from the west–central community of Brandon, Minnesota, was recently indicted in federal court in Minneapolis for allegedly possessing two firearms on June 29, 2010. Jeffrey Allen Stoltz, age 48, was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Stoltz made his initial appearance earlier today in federal court.More »
Plymouth Felon Indicted for Possessing Nine–Millimeter Pistol
March 18, 2011
A federal indictment, unsealed earlier today in Minneapolis, alleges that a Plymouth felon possessed a nine–millimeter pistol on November 29, 2010. The indictment, which was filed on March 16, 2011, charges Nieem Kalif Jones, age 30, with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number. The indictment was unsealed following Jones’s initial appearance in federal court.More »
Duluth Armed Career Criminal Indicted for Possessing Firearms, Ammunition, and Narcotics
March 18, 2011
A federal indictment unsealed earlier today in the District of Minnesota charges a 31–yearold Duluth man with possessing firearms and ammunition as well as possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine and narcotics. Jeremiah Robert Hedberg was indicted on one count of felon in possesion of a firearm, one count of felon in possession of ammunition, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute Opana, a powerful pain killer. The indictment, which was filed on March 8, 2011, was unsealed following Hedberg’s initial appearance in federal court.More »
Madison Man Sentenced to 22 Years for Gun Crimes
March 16, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Christopher Singleman, 28, Madison, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 22 years in prison, without the possibility of parole, for unlawfully possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and for using a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Singleman pleaded guilty to these charges on December 28, 2010.More »
Redby Woman Indicted for Accessory to Murder in Red Lake Case
March 16, 2011
Recently, in federal court in the District of Minnesota, an indictment was filed that charges a young woman from the town of Redby, located on the Red Lake Indian Reservation, with a crime connected to the November 3, 2010, murder of one man and the wounding of two others. Jerilee Jane Head, age 21, was specifically charged with one count of being an accessory after the fact. The indictment, which was filed under seal on March 8, 2011, was unsealed following Head’s initial appearance yesterday in federal court in Bemidji. She was arrested by the FBI on March 14, 2011.More »
Brooklyn Park Felon Indicted for Possessing Nine-Millimeter Pistol
March 16, 2011
A 40–year–old felon from Brooklyn Park was indicted today in federal court in Minneapolis for allegedly possessing a nine–millimeter pistol while participating in a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Leroy Anthony Meadows was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of discharging a firearm during and in relation to a drug–trafficking crime.More »
Rapid City Man Pleads Guilty to Making False Statement in Attempt to Purchase a Firearm
March 14, 2011
Rapid City, SD – U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Easton L. Mercy, age 20, of Rapid City, appeared before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on March 14, 2011, and pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with False Statement During Attempted Purchase of a Firearm. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.More »
Federal Jury Finds Felon Guilty of Possessing a .45 Caliber Pistol
March 9, 2011
Earlier this afternoon in federal court in Minneapolis, a jury found a 32-year-old Minneapolis felon guilty of possessing a firearm. Following a three-day trial and an hour of deliberation, Todd Richard Chazen was convicted of one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He was indicted on December 14, 2010.More »
Fire Investigators Respond to Fatal Blaze at 500 Bar & Grill
March 8, 2011
MILWAUKEE – On Sunday at approximately 4:30 a.m., the Milwaukee Police and Fire Departments responded to a call of an explosion and fire at the 500 Pub & Grill, 500 North 29th St., Milwaukee. During fire suppression efforts, firefighters recovered the body of the owner of the business, Scott C. Benton, a former detective with the Milwaukee Police Department.More »
Felon Sentenced as an Armed Career Criminal for Possessing a .40 Caliber Handgun
March 4, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 30-year-old felon from St. Paul was sentenced as an armed career criminal for possessing a Glock .40 caliber handgun. United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen sentenced Laquan Traveon Fair to 180 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Fair was indicted on May 11, 2010, and pleaded guilty on November 8, 2010.More »
Felon Sentenced For Possessing a 12-Gauge Shotgun
March 4, 2011
Earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis, a 30-year-old felon was sentenced for possessing a 12-gauge shotgun. United States District Court Judge Patrick J. Schiltz sentenced Cameron Eugene Adams, currently incarcerated in the Duluth Correctional Facility, to 90 months in federal prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Adams was indicted on May 4, 2010, and pleaded guilty on July 13, 2010. More »
Duluth Man Sentenced for Distributing Crack Cocaine and Being a Career Criminal
March 3, 2011
Curtis Lavelle Harris, the leader of a crack cocaine distribution ring in the Duluth area from May of 2008 through June of 2009, was sentenced today in federal court in Minneapolis for his role in that operation. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim ordered Harris, age 38, of Duluth, to serve 90 months in federal prison after he pleaded guilty on November 24, 2009, to one count of conspiracy to distribute more than 50 grams of crack cocaine. Because of his extensive criminal history, Harris was found by the court to be a career criminal, as defined in the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and the sentence imposed on him today reflects that finding. Harris and two co-defendants were indicted on August 11, 2009. More »
Porcupine Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Possession of a Firearm
March 3, 2011
Rapid City, SD – U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Gilbert Blue Bird, age 42, of Porcupine, appeared before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on March 2, 2011, and pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with Possession of a Firearm by a Prohibited Person. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years in prison and/or a $250,000 fine.More »
Minneapolis Career Criminal Pleads Guilty to Possessing a .357 Caliber Revolver
February 25, 2011
Earlier today in federal court, a 36-year-old career criminal from Minneapolis pleaded guilty to possessing a .357-caliber revolver on October 13, 2010. Appearing in Minneapolis before United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery, Kendrick Lee Robbins pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Robbins was indicted on November 17, 2010.More »
Fridley felon indicted for possessing a .357 revolver; faces mandatory 15-year sentence as armed career criminal
February 25, 2011
A felon from Fridley was indicted today in federal court in Minneapolis for possessing a .357-caliber revolver on January 20, 2011. Roger Bruce Bugh, age 42, was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
New Town Man Pleads Guilty to Assaulting Federal Officers
February 23, 2011
BISMARCK – United States Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on February 23, 2011, Henry D. Smith, 27, of New Town, North Dakota, pleaded guilty before United States District Court Judge Daniel L. Hovland to two counts of assaulting and resisting a federal officer and one count of use of a firearm during commission of a crime of violenceMore »
Federal Jury Finds Minneapolis Man Guilty of Being a Career Criminal in Possession of a Firearm
February 16, 2011
Yesterday in federal court in St. Paul, a federal jury found a career criminal guilty of possessing a 12-gauge shotgun on February 24, 2010. After just an hour of deliberation, the jury convicted Jeff Parker, age 38, of Minneapolis, with one count of being a career criminal in possession of a firearm. Parker was indicted on October 18, 2010.More »
Minneapolis Career Criminal Pleads Guilty to Possessing a .32 Caliber Revolver and Ammunition
February 10, 2011
Earlier today, a career criminal pleaded guilty in federal court in Minneapolis to possessing a .32 caliber revolver and ammunition on November 20, 2010. Appearing before United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis, Eugene Maurice Clanton, age 36, of Minneapolis, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. He was indicted on December 15, 2010.More »
Medford Man Sentenced for Smuggling Firearms
January 25, 2011
Earlier today in Minneapolis, Paul Giovanni De La Rosa, age 37, of Medford, was sentenced to 36 months in federal prison after earlier admitting he had illegally purchased more than 100 firearms, which he then smuggled into Mexico. Some of those weapons were later recovered during investigations into Mexican drug cartels.More »
St. Paul Felon Indicted for Possessing with Intent to Distribute Ecstasy, Marijuana
January 20, 2011
A 37-year-old St. Paul felon was indicted today in federal court in Minneapolis for allegedly possessing with intent to distribute marijuana and the semisynthetic psychedelic drug MDMA, commonly known as ecstasy. Samuel Lamont Seals was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana and MDMA and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Felon Indicted Under the Hobbs Act for Robbery of Brooklyn Park Gas Station
January 20, 2011
A federal grand jury in Minneapolis today indicted a 22-year-old felon for allegedly robbing the Noble Mobil gas station in Brooklyn Park on January 5, 2011. Philip Alvin Myers of Brooklyn Park was charged under the Hobbs Act with one count of interference with commerce by robbery. Myers also was charged with one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He remains in custody.More »
Felon Indicted for Possessing a .22 Caliber Revolver
January 20, 2011
A 42-year-old felon was indicted today in federal court in Minneapolis for allegedly possessing a .22 caliber revolver on September 13, 2010. Robert Ellis Hastings, of Cascade Township in Olmsted County, was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. He remains in custody.More »
Two Redby Men Indicted for Murder
January 20, 2011
Two men from the town of Redby were indicted today in federal court in Minneapolis in connection with the November 3, 2010, killing of a man and the wounding of two others on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. Donald Leigh Clark, Jr., age 22, and Cruze Anthony White, age 22, were charged with one count of second-degree murder, two counts of assault with intent to commit murder, one count of assault with a dangerous weapon, and one count of discharge of a firearm during a crime of violence. Clark was arrested on Saturday. White remains at large and is considered armed and dangerous.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
January 19, 2011
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guiltyMore »
Fargo Man Sentenced on Federal Firearm Charges
January 13, 2011
FARGO — United States Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on January 13, 2011, Jason Von McCubbin of Fargo, North Dakota, was sentenced before United States District Court Judge Ralph R. Erickson on charges of possession of firearms by a convicted felon and possession of stolen firearms.More »
Michigan Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of Firearm
January 12, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Demond L. Wilson, 33, of Flint, Mich., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to seven years in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a felon and possessing a firearm with an obliterated serial number. Wilson pleaded guilty to both charges on November 3, 2010.More »
Beloit Man Sentenced to 46 Months for Illegal Possession of Firearm
January 12, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb sentenced Jacob Risseeuw, 25, Beloit, Wis., today to 46 months in prison for possessing a firearm after having been previously convicted of a felony. Risseeuw pleaded guilty to this charge on October 27, 2010.More »
Madison Man Sentenced to Federal Prison on Marijuana Charge
January 12, 2011
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Anthony Williams, 27, Madison, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to six years in prison, without the possibility of parole, for possessing marijuana with intent to distribute. Williams pleaded guilty to this charge on November 2, 2010. More »
Another armed career criminal indicted as part of Project Exile Minneapolis
January 12, 2011
A 46-year-old Minneapolis felon has been indicted today in federal court in Minneapolis for allegedly possessing a .44 magnum revolver. The indictment charges Michael Edward Willis with one count of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that Willis possessed the revolver on October 19, 2010. Because he is a felon, Willis cannot possess firearms or ammunition at any time. More »
ATF Announces Up to $5,000 Reward for Information on the Eagle Butte Head Start Arson
January 11, 2011
ST. PAUL — Investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) today announced ATF is posting a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible for the arson fire to the Eagle Butte Head Start facility, in Eagle Butte, S.D. located on the Cheyenne River Sioux Indian Reservation.More »
Felon sentenced for possessing a .357 caliber revolver
January 7, 2011
A 34-year-old felon was sentenced earlier today in federal court in St. Paul for possessing a .357 caliber revolver in July of 2009. United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Lyons Lonnie Bynum to 120 months in prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Bynum was indicted on December 2, 2009, and was convicted by a jury on April 14, 2010.More »
Career criminal charged under the Hobbs Act for Armed Robbery of White Bear Lake Bar
January 3, 2011
A felon who was charged last week in federal court in the District of Minnesota for allegedly committing the armed robbery of a White Bear Lake bar made his initial appearance in court earlier today. The criminal complaint filed in this case charges Tyice Alexander Phillips, age 33, with one count of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act. The complaint also charges Phillips with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence.St. Paul Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).More »
ATF Offers $5,000 Reward in Metro Business Robberies
December 31, 2010
ST. PAUL — A reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and convictions of those responsible for multiple business robberies in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area was announced today by Bernard J. Zapor, Special Agent in Charge of the St. Paul Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).More »
Sentencing In Grampa’s Gunshop Burglary
December 28, 2010
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Darren Richardson, 21, Chicago, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 46 months in prison, without the possibility of parole, for stealing 20 firearms from Grampa’s Gun Shop, 1374 Williamson Street, Madison, on March 13, 2010. Richardson pleaded guilty to this charge on October 7, 2010. (ATF).More »
Rapid City Man Indicted on Drug Charges
December 23, 2010
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rapid City man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for possessing methamphetamine while intending to distribute it and for distributing it near Rapid City. (ATF).More »
Felon (from Idaho) Pleads Guilty to Unlawfully Possessing a Firearm
December 16, 2010
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Brandon Spurway, age 28, of Post Fall, Idaho, appeared before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on December 16, 2010, and pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with Felon in Possession of a Firearm. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years of imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. More »
Duluth felon pleads guilty to possessing a firearm
December 15, 2010
A 31-year-old felon from Duluth pleaded guilty yesterday in federal court in Duluth to possessing a Smith & Wesson .40 caliber pistol. Nicholas James Worden pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm before United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis. Worden was indicted on September 9, 2010. More »
Red Lake felon indicted for possessing two firearms
December 8, 2010
A 24-year-old felon from Red Lake was indicted today in federal court in St. Paul for allegedly possessing a .24 caliber rifle and a nine—millimeter pistol in July of 2010. The indictment charges Fabian Wayne English with two counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm. More »
Two armed career criminals charged under the Hobbs Act for using firearms to rob a Dunn Bros coffee shop
December 8, 2010
Two felons were indicted today in federal court in St. Paul for allegedly possessing and using firearms to commit armed robbery of a Dunn Bros coffee shop in the Uptown neighborhood of Minneapolis on October 27, 2010. The indictment charges Carlos Maurice Harris, age 38, of Falcon Heights, and Ronald Harold Moore, age 47, of Inver Grove Heights, with one count of interference with commerce by robbery under the Hobbs Act, which prohibits robbery affecting interstate commerce. More »
Robbinsdale man indicted for conspiring to distribute cocaine, marijuana
December 8, 2010
A 38-year-old Robbinsdale man was indicted today in federal court in St. Paul for allegedly conspiring to distribute approximately 1.48 kilograms of cocaine and eight kilograms of marijuana. The indictment charges Marlon Terrell Collins with one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana. More »
Nine indicted on charges related to crack cocaine trafficking
December 6, 2010
A federal indictment unsealed earlier today in St. Paul alleges that nine individuals have been charged with offenses related to a crack cocaine operation that functioned in Minnesota between November of 2009 and July of 2010. The indictment, which was filed on November 1, 2010, in St. Paul, was unsealed following the initial appearances of five of the defendants.
More »Federal Jury Convicts Armed Career Criminal for Possessing a .22 Caliber Revolver
December 3, 2010
Yesterday in St. Paul a federal jury convicted a 43-year-old armed career criminal for possessing a .22 caliber Rohm revolver. Following a three-day trial, Michael James Constantine, of St. Paul, was found guilty on one count of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm. Constantine was indicted on June 8, 2010. More »
California Man Indicted on Drug and Firearm
November 30, 2010
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a California man has been indicted by a federal grand jury for possessing marijuana while intending to distribute it and for possessing firearms illegally.More »
Minneapolis felon indicted as an armed career criminal for possessing a .357 caliber revolver
November 18, 2010
A 31-year-old felon from Minneapolis was indicted today in federal court in Minneapolis as an armed career criminal for allegedly possessing a .357 caliber revolver on October 13, 2010. The indictment specifically charges Kendrick Lee Robbins with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. More »
Another career criminal indicted as part of Project Exile Minneapolis
November 18, 2010
A 30-year-old felon from Minneapolis was indicted today in federal court in Minneapolis for allegedly possessing a 12-gauge shotgun, a .44 caliber handgun, and ammunition on several occasions earlier this year. The indictment charges Adonis Adolph Dorman with three counts of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm and four counts of being an armed career criminal in possession of ammunition More »
Wisconsin Felon Indicted for Dealing Illegal Firearms, Distributing Methamphetamine
November 8, 2010
A federal indictment unsealed last week alleges that a 31-year-old felon from Amery, Wisconsin, has been conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and dealing in firearms without being a licensed firearms dealer. The indictment, filed on November 1, 2010, charges John Philip Schanon with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, and one count of unlicensed dealing in firearms. More »
Mission Man Sentenced for being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm
October 26, 2010
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Mission, South Dakota, man charged with Felon in Possession of Firearm was sentenced on October 25, 2010, by United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange. Henry Peter Shields Him, Jr., a/k/a Hank Shields Him, age 59, was sentenced to 33 months of imprisonment, two years of supervised release, a $100 special assessment, and ordered to forfeit the firearm. More »
Arizona Woman Sentenced 51 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute a Controlled Substance
October 25, 2010
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a woman charged with Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance was sentenced on October 25, 2010, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. Charlee Angelene Bad Wound, age 21, of Arizona, was sentenced to 51 months of imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 to the Victim Assistance Fund. More »
Another “Project Exile Minneapolis” Indictment Is Unsealed in Federal Court
October 20, 2010
Another federal indictment credited to Project Exile Minneapolis has been unsealed. It charges Kevin Devon Wallace, age 29, of Minneapolis, with being a career criminal in possession of a firearm as well as possession of a stolen firearm. The indictment, filed on October 13, 2010, was unsealed following Wallace’s arrest and initial appearance in federal court. More »
Man Indicted in Federal Court Under “Project Exile Minneapolis”
October 19, 2010
A man has been federally indicted under the Project Exile Minneapolis initiative. It charges Samnane Phabsomphou, age 32, unknown address, with being a career criminal in possession of a firearm as well as possession of ammunition. The indictment was filed earlier today in Minneapolis. More »
Minneapolis Man Indicted in Federal Court as a Result of “Project Exile Minneapolis”
October 19, 2010
Another individual has been federally indicted as a result of the Project Exile Minneapolis initiative. The indictment, which was filed earlier today in Minneapolis, charges Jeff Parker, age 38, of Minneapolis, with being a career criminal in possession of a firearm. More »
Bismarck Man Pleads Guilty to White Shield Apartment Burglary
October 18, 2010
United States Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on October 18, 2010, Robert J. Painte, 21, of Bismarck, North Dakota, pleaded guilty before United States District Court Judge Daniel L. Hovland to a charge of burglary. More »
Four Indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Methamphetamine, Oxycodone
October 15, 2010
A federal indictment unsealed earlier today in the District of Minnesota alleges that four men have been conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and oxycodone in Minnesota for the past two years. Noel Gutierrez Manzanares, age 37, no known address; Randy Lee Motzko, age 42, of Hilltop, Minnesota; and Robert Garcia, age 41, and Karl James Pentz, age 48, both of Aitkin, Minnesota, were charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, namely methamphetamine and oxycodone. More »
Guilty Pleas in Grampa’s Gunshop Burglary
October 7, 2010
John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Darren Richardson, 20, Chicago, pleaded guilty yesterday, and Daniel Barlow, 23, Madison, pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Madison to stealing 20 firearms from Grampa’s Gun Shop, 1374 Williamson Street, Madison, on March 13, 2010. More »
Eau Claire Man Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Firearms From Durand Business
October 5, 2010
John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Alan Xiong, 24, of Eau Claire, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 84 months in prison without parole for stealing firearms from Ryan’s Gun Shop in Durand, Wis. This term or imprisonment will be followed by three years of supervised release. Xiong pleaded guilty to this charge on July 20, 2010. More »
Roseglen Man Pleads Guilty to Apartment Burglaries
September 28, 2010
United States Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on September 27, 2010, Derrick LaCroix, 20, of Roseglen, North Dakota, pleaded guilty before United States District Court Judge Daniel L. Hovland to two counts of burglary. More »
ATF Announces $5,000 Reward for Gun Theft
September 28, 2010
Special Agent in Charge Bernard J. Zapor of the St. Paul Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), today announced that ATF is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the firearms theft that occurred at Al’s Gun Shop located at 1597 East County Road E, White Bear Lake, Minn. More »
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Arson
September 27, 2010
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man charged with Arson was sentenced on September 27, 2010, by United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange. More »
Another “Project Exile Minneapolis” Indictment Is Unsealed in Federal Court
September 15, 2010
Another federal indictment credited to Project Exile Minneapolis has been unsealed. It charges Earl Louis Ollie, age 38, of Minneapolis, with being a career criminal in possession of a firearm. The indictment, filed last week, was unsealed following Harris’s arrest and initial appearance in federal court late yesterday. More »
Gang Member Sentenced to 110 Months in Federal Prison for Possessing a Firearm as a Felon
September 14, 2010
A 30-year-old member of the Rolling 60s Crips was sentenced earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis for being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced Anton Lamont Burnes to 110 months in prison on one count of felon in possession. Burnes was indicted on August 12, 2008, and pleaded guilty on November 2, 2009. More »
First Federal Indictment Unsealed in “Project Exile Minneapolis”
September 13, 2010
The first federal indictment arising out of Project Exile Minneapolis has been unsealed. It charges Calvin Lorenzo Harris, age 24, of Richfield, Minnesota, with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possessing an unregistered gun. The indictment, filed earlier this month, was unsealed following Harris’s initial appearance in federal court this afternoon. More »
St. Paul Police Dept. Officer Recipient of ATF National Award
August 24, 2010
A St. Paul Police Department (SPPD) officer was presented today with the ATF Jake Kuredjian Memorial Award by U.S. Attorney General Eric H. Holder Jr. and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives Deputy Director Kenneth E. Melson at ATF’s 14th Annual Awards Ceremony in Washington, D.C. More »
ATF Announces $5,000 Reward in Gun Theft
August 23, 2010
Special Agent in Charge Bernard J. Zapor of the St. Paul Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), today announced that ATF is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the theft of firearms that occurred at Gene’s Sports Shop in Perham, Minn. More »
ATF Announces $5,000 Reward in Gun Theft
August 5, 2010
Special Agent in Charge Bernard J. Zapor of the St. Paul Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), announced today that ATF is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the theft of firearms from Bluewater Bait and Sports in Bemidji, MN. More »
3 Sentenced for Distributing Methamphetamine
July 8, 2010
A St. Paul man and two California men were sentenced earlier today in federal court in Minneapolis for distributing approximately 223 grams of methamphetamine in January of 2009. United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis sentenced two of the three men on one count of distribution of 50 or more grams of methamphetamine. More »
ATF Announces $5,000 Reward in Gun Theft
June 28, 2010
Special Agent in Charge Bernard J. Zapor of the St. Paul Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), today announced that ATF is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for the theft of firearms that occurred at Gun and Reel Sports in Jamestown, N.D. More »
ATF Agent is Honored by U.S. Attorney for Dismantling Drug Trafficking Operations in Duluth
May 25, 2010
Since 2002, federal prosecutors in Minnesota have dismantled many Duluth-based drug and gun trafficking organizations by prosecuting more than 200 of their leaders and members. One reason for the success of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in these cases has been the extraordinary investigations conducted by the United States Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (“ATF”) in partnership with the Duluth Police Department and the Lake Superior Drug and Gang Task Force. More »
Porcupine Man Sentenced for Shooting Tribal Officer’s Home
April 26, 2010
U.S. Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a man charged with Assault Upon a Federal Officer was sentenced on April 23, 2010, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. Jesse Miller, age 22, of Porcupine, was sentenced to 60 months of imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and ordered to pay $100 to the Victim Assistance Fund. More »
Purported Gang Leader Sentenced for Illegally Possessing a Firearm
April 5, 2010
B. Todd Jones, United States Attorney for the District of Minnesota, announced that a 32-year-old purported leader of the Native Gangster Disciples street gang was sentenced earlier today in federal court for being a felon in possession of a firearm. In St. Paul, U.S. District Court Judge Patrick Schiltz declared it to be one of the worst
gun cases he has seen on the bench and sentenced Douglas David Peake to 115 months in prison on one count of felon in possession of a firearm. Peake was indicted on August 20, 2009, and pled guilty on November 23, 2009. More »
8 More Defendants Sentenced for Distributing Methamphetamine in Duluth
February 18, 2010
This week eight people in a 28-defendant methamphetamine distribution case were sentenced in federal court. Collectively, the defendants in this case were responsible for distributing between 30 and 50 pounds of methamphetamine in the Duluth area from 2005 to 2008. More »
ATF Offers Up to $5,000 Reward in Rapid City Casino Robberies
February 4, 2010
Bernard J. Zapor, Special Agent in Charge of the St. Paul Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), today announced that ATF is offering up to a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the Dec. 29 armed robbery at the Royal Casino and the Feb. 1 armed robbery at the King of Hearts Casino, both located in Rapid City, S.D. More »
ATF Announces Up to $10,000 Reward for Information on the Pizza Man Arson
January 29, 2010
Investigators from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Milwaukee Police and Fire Departments and the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigation (DCI) announced today that ATF is posting a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest of the person or persons responsible for the Jan 19 arson fire that destroyed several North Avenue businesses including Pizza Man, Cush Lounge, Grecian Delight, Black and White Café and several upstairs apartments. More »
8 Sentenced For Operating Crack Cocaine Ring in Duluth
January 8, 2010
Earlier today three defendants appeared in federal court in Duluth to be sentenced for their roles in a crack cocaine distribution ring that operated in the Duluth area between January of 2008 and February of 2009. United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Earl David Bowser, age 30, of Chicago, Illinois, to 120 months in prison; Alten Eugene Hall, age 22, of Harvey, Illinois, to 60 months in prison; and Raymond Vick Bowser, age 25, of Duluth, Minnesota, to 46 months in prison. More »
Charges in Cold Case Kidnapping from West St. Paul
January 7, 2010
Dakota County Attorney James Backstrom announced that Che Lamar Romero, age 40, currently residing in federal prison in California, has been charged with four counts of Kidnapping in connection with two separate incidents in West St. Paul in 2002… More »