breaking911--2020-12-09--HORROR: Father Charged With Murder, Accused Of Beheading His Own Children While Forcing His Other Ki

HORROR: Father Charged With Murder, Accused Of Beheading His Own Children While Forcing His Other Kids To View Their Decapitated Siblings

A Lancaster , California father of four has been charged with decapitating his teenage son and daughter and abusing his other two boys last week , the Los Angeles County District Attorney ’ s Office announced today .
Maurice Jewel Taylor Sr. , 34 , faces two felony counts each of murder and “ child abuse under circumstances or conditions likely to cause great bodily injury or death.
” Taylor , a personal trainer , is charged with fatally stabbing Maliaka T. , 13 , and Maurice T. , 12 , on November 29 .
Taylor ’ s other two @ @ @ @ @ @ @ allegedly shown their murdered siblings and were forced to stay in their bedrooms for several days without food , the prosecutors said .
CNS reported : Sheriff ’ s Lt. Brandon Dean confirmed the suspect ’ s wife and their other two children were questioned by homicide detectives , who arrested the father just before 6:30 p.m. Friday .
Taylor worked at a physical therapy center in Santa Monica but had been conducting training sessions via Zoom due to the coronavirus pandemic .
Some of his clients contacted authorities when they could not @ @ @ @ @ @ @ week leading up to the discovery of the victims .
If convicted as charged , Taylor faces a possible maximum sentence of more than 57 years to life in state prison .
There is no known motive for the horrific crime .
The case remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff ’ s Department , Lancaster Station .

A Lancaster, California father of four has been charged with decapitating his teenage son and daughter and abusing his other two boys last week, the Los Angeles County District Attorney’s Office announced today.
Maurice Jewel Taylor Sr., 34, faces two felony counts each of murder and “child abuse under circumstances or conditions likely to cause great bodily injury or death.”
Taylor, a personal trainer, is charged with fatally stabbing Maliaka T., 13, and Maurice T., 12, on November 29. Taylor’s other two boys, ages 8 and 9 were allegedly shown their murdered siblings and were forced to stay in their bedrooms for several days without food, the prosecutors said.
CNS reported: Sheriff’s Lt. Brandon Dean confirmed the suspect’s wife and their other two children were questioned by homicide detectives, who arrested the father just before 6:30 p.m. Friday.
Taylor worked at a physical therapy center in Santa Monica but had been conducting training sessions via Zoom due to the coronavirus pandemic.
Some of his clients contacted authorities when they could not reach him for scheduled appointments in the week leading up to the discovery of the victims.
If convicted as charged, Taylor faces a possible maximum sentence of more than 57 years to life in state prison. There is no known motive for the horrific crime.
The case remains under investigation by the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, Lancaster Station.
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breaking911--2020-12-09--CT Becomes First State To Require High School Courses on Black And Latino Studies

Governor Lamont Announces Connecticut Becomes First State in Nation To Require High Schools Provide Courses on Black and Latino Studies / NEWS RELEASE ( HARTFORD , CT ) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that Connecticut has become the first state in the nation to require all high schools in the state offer courses on African-American , Black , Puerto Rican , and Latino studies .
The requirement is the result of a law Governor Lamont signed last year – Public Act 19-12 – that directs all regional and local boards of education to include an elective course of studies @ @ @ @ @ @ @ students with a better understanding of the African-American , Black , Puerto Rican , and Latino contributions to United States history , society , economy , and culture .
Last week , the Connecticut State Board of Education unanimously approved the curriculum for the course , which was a final step needed to implement the requirement .
High schools may offer the course in 2021-2022 and will be required to offer it during the school year that begins in the fall of 2022 .
“ Increasing the diversity of what we teach is @ @ @ @ @ @ @ understanding of who we are as a society and where we are going , ” Governor Lamont said .
“ Adding this course in our high schools will be an enormous benefit not only to our Black and Latino students , but to students of all backgrounds because everyone can benefit from these studies .
This is a step that is long overdue , and I applaud the work of the General Assembly , State Board of Education , and everyone at the State Education Resource Center whose collaborative work helped get this @ @ @ @ @ @ @ when 27 percent of our students identify as Hispanic or Latino and 13 percent identify as Black or African-American , ” Connecticut Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona said .
“ This curriculum acknowledges that by connecting the story of people of color in the U.S. to the larger story of American history .
The fact is that more inclusive , culturally relevant content in classrooms leads to greater student engagement and better outcomes for all .
This law passed due in large part to the strong advocacy of students from around the state and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Gibson and State Senator Doug McCrory .
I thank Ingrid Canady , the SERC team , and all of our partners who contributed to and drove us to this historic moment.
” The adopted curriculum focuses on a two-pronged , inquiry-based approach , including both content knowledge and student identity development .
It utilizes Connecticut ’ s Social Studies Framework themes and inquiry-based approach already familiar to social studies teachers to deliver a content rich and personalized learning experience .
The Connecticut State Department of Education partnered with the State Education Resource Center @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The development process was guided by a 150-member advisory group comprised of educators , administrators , higher education professors and scholars , national researchers and historians , representatives from education and community organizations , and studies and families .
The group organized into nine committees with specific tasks .
The work of each committee was facilitated by a SERC liaison to ensure seamless communication and workflow between committees .
Additionally , an expert review panel was convened , consisting of ten national and state-level experts to review course deliverables as they were @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
Other opportunities for stakeholder involvement included providing feedback through surveys and focus groups .
“ I am extremely proud of the passage of this bill , ” State Senator Douglas McCrory ( D-Hartford ) , co-chair of the Education Committee , said .
“ It was a humbling experience to hear students passionately call for the Black and Latino studies curriculum , and I thank them for it .
Nelson Mandela once said , ‘ Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world , ’ and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a greater understanding and appreciation of the many contributions made by Black and Latino Americans.
” “ I am excited to see implementation of this bipartisan legislation that will give students a more realistic view of their heritage and the many accomplishments of their ancestors , ” State Representative Bobby Sanchez ( D-New Britain ) said .
“ This curriculum , which is a year-long study of Black and Latino history , will lead to better racial relations in our communities and a more inclusive state for our children and theirs .
At @ @ @ @ @ @ @ how history classes didn ’ t reflect their heritage .
Now , high schoolers will have that opportunity.
” “ I am so proud of how the state came together to make this legislation I brought forth come to fruition , ” State Representative Bobby Gibson ( D-Bloomfield , Windsor ) said .
“ This history is for everyone .
Our nation is at a point where we must change the one-sided narrative of how we view history .
Racism stems from the lack of knowledge and respect for one another .
Perhaps @ @ @ @ @ @ @ about the amazing accomplishments of our people , the actions of this past summer would not have had to happen .
We would be doing an injustice to our children if we didn ’ t do our part to help them to understand each other more.
” “ SERC ’ s mission has always been about access and opportunity , and our team is proud to have been part of this moment affirming our students ’ racial identity and ensuring it is at the forefront , ” Ingrid Canady , executive director of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of this endeavor involved an advisory group of racially diverse , passionate , and committed individuals from across Connecticut and we have made history together because we passionately believed it could be done .
Even through challenges like the pandemic , the group never backed down because we knew that every single student in Connecticut needs to understand the history of people of color in the American story which has been denied by textbooks for too long .
”

Governor Lamont Announces Connecticut Becomes First State in Nation To Require High Schools Provide Courses on Black and Latino Studies / NEWS RELEASE
(HARTFORD, CT) – Governor Ned Lamont today announced that Connecticut has become the first state in the nation to require all high schools in the state offer courses on African-American, Black, Puerto Rican, and Latino studies.
The requirement is the result of a law Governor Lamont signed last year – Public Act 19-12 – that directs all regional and local boards of education to include an elective course of studies at the high school level that provides students with a better understanding of the African-American, Black, Puerto Rican, and Latino contributions to United States history, society, economy, and culture. Last week, the Connecticut State Board of Education unanimously approved the curriculum for the course, which was a final step needed to implement the requirement.
High schools may offer the course in 2021-2022 and will be required to offer it during the school year that begins in the fall of 2022.
“Increasing the diversity of what we teach is critical to providing students with a better understanding of who we are as a society and where we are going,” Governor Lamont said. “Adding this course in our high schools will be an enormous benefit not only to our Black and Latino students, but to students of all backgrounds because everyone can benefit from these studies. This is a step that is long overdue, and I applaud the work of the General Assembly, State Board of Education, and everyone at the State Education Resource Center whose collaborative work helped get this done.”
“Identities matter, especially when 27 percent of our students identify as Hispanic or Latino and 13 percent identify as Black or African-American,” Connecticut Education Commissioner Miguel Cardona said. “This curriculum acknowledges that by connecting the story of people of color in the U.S. to the larger story of American history. The fact is that more inclusive, culturally relevant content in classrooms leads to greater student engagement and better outcomes for all. This law passed due in large part to the strong advocacy of students from around the state and the legislative leadership of State Representative Bobby Gibson and State Senator Doug McCrory. I thank Ingrid Canady, the SERC team, and all of our partners who contributed to and drove us to this historic moment.”
The adopted curriculum focuses on a two-pronged, inquiry-based approach, including both content knowledge and student identity development. It utilizes Connecticut’s Social Studies Framework themes and inquiry-based approach already familiar to social studies teachers to deliver a content rich and personalized learning experience. The Connecticut State Department of Education partnered with the State Education Resource Center (SERC) to develop the curriculum.
The development process was guided by a 150-member advisory group comprised of educators, administrators, higher education professors and scholars, national researchers and historians, representatives from education and community organizations, and studies and families. The group organized into nine committees with specific tasks. The work of each committee was facilitated by a SERC liaison to ensure seamless communication and workflow between committees.
Additionally, an expert review panel was convened, consisting of ten national and state-level experts to review course deliverables as they were developed and provide critical feedback and resources. Other opportunities for stakeholder involvement included providing feedback through surveys and focus groups.
“I am extremely proud of the passage of this bill,” State Senator Douglas McCrory (D-Hartford), co-chair of the Education Committee, said. “It was a humbling experience to hear students passionately call for the Black and Latino studies curriculum, and I thank them for it. Nelson Mandela once said, ‘Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world,’ and I hope this new curriculum will facilitate a greater understanding and appreciation of the many contributions made by Black and Latino Americans.”
“I am excited to see implementation of this bipartisan legislation that will give students a more realistic view of their heritage and the many accomplishments of their ancestors,” State Representative Bobby Sanchez (D-New Britain) said. “This curriculum, which is a year-long study of Black and Latino history, will lead to better racial relations in our communities and a more inclusive state for our children and theirs. At public hearings, last year students explained how history classes didn’t reflect their heritage. Now, high schoolers will have that opportunity.”
“I am so proud of how the state came together to make this legislation I brought forth come to fruition,” State Representative Bobby Gibson (D-Bloomfield, Windsor) said. “This history is for everyone. Our nation is at a point where we must change the one-sided narrative of how we view history. Racism stems from the lack of knowledge and respect for one another. Perhaps if our children grew up knowing more about the amazing accomplishments of our people, the actions of this past summer would not have had to happen. We would be doing an injustice to our children if we didn’t do our part to help them to understand each other more.”
“SERC’s mission has always been about access and opportunity, and our team is proud to have been part of this moment affirming our students’ racial identity and ensuring it is at the forefront,” Ingrid Canady, executive director of SERC, said. “Our coordination of this endeavor involved an advisory group of racially diverse, passionate, and committed individuals from across Connecticut and we have made history together because we passionately believed it could be done. Even through challenges like the pandemic, the group never backed down because we knew that every single student in Connecticut needs to understand the history of people of color in the American story which has been denied by textbooks for too long.”
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breaking911--2020-12-09--Video Shows Unknown Man Firing Rifle on Chicago Train Station Platform

The FBI ’ s Chicago Field Office and the Metra Police Department in Chicago , Illinois , are seeking the @ @ @ @ @ identifying an unknown man in connection with a shooting on a Metra platform on December @ @ @ @ @ 10:00 a.m. , the man removed a collapsible rifle from his backpack and fired one @ @ @ @ @ Metra train platform at McCormick Place .
The suspect was observed walking with an unusual @ @ @ @ @ you recognize the man , call 1-800-CALL-FBI .

The FBI’s Chicago Field Office and the Metra Police Department in Chicago, Illinois, are seeking the public’s assistance in identifying an unknown man in connection with a shooting on a Metra platform on December 1, 2020.
Around 10:00 a.m., the man removed a collapsible rifle from his backpack and fired one round while standing on the Metra train platform at McCormick Place.
The suspect was observed walking with an unusual and irregular gait.
If you recognize the man, call 1-800-CALL-FBI.
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breaking911--2020-12-09--Federal Grand Jury Indicts 30 Members and Associates of the Pagans Motorcycle Club

PITTSBURGH , PA – A federal grand jury in Pittsburgh has issued three separate , but related , Indictments , charging 30 residents of western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio with narcotics trafficking and firearm possession , United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today .
According to U.S. Attorney Brady , the Indictments are a part of an ongoing investigation into members and associates of the Pagans Motorcycle Club ( PMC or Pagans ) operating in and around western Pennsylvania engaging in illegal activity , including federal violations of drug and firearm laws .
The related Indictments are the result @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of 2018 , and ultimately led to a Title III wire investigation with intercepted communications over several telephones from August 2020 through November 2020 .
The defendants are alleged to have conspired to distribute controlled substances including cocaine , methamphetamine , and heroin .
“ For decades , the Pagans have used violence to control cocaine , heroin and meth trafficking throughout western Pennsylvania : that stops now , ” said U.S. Attorney Brady .
“ With the arrests of thirty members and associates of the Pittsburgh chapter of the Pagan ’ s @ @ @ @ @ @ @ we have disrupted their criminal organization and made western Pennsylvania safer.
” “ The members and associates of the Pagan ’ s Motorcycle Club facing charges today had a complete disregard for the law and the safety of the communities they operate in , ” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman .
“ Through joint , collaborative investigations and robust partnerships , we will continue to target the leadership of these organizations and bring them to justice for the harm caused by their criminal actions.
” According to the Department @ @ @ @ @ @ @ violent Outlaw Motorcycle Gang whose membership distribute cocaine , methamphetamine , heroin , fentanyl , marijuana and other illegal drugs .
The Pagans are one of the most prominent outlaw motorcycle gangs in the eastern United States .
In addition to the PMC insignia , members of the PMC wear a diamond patch with “ 1 % ” inscribed inside , which denotes their claim to be among the one percent of motorcycle riders who are not law abiding .
According to information provided to the court , the three Indictments charge 30 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ charges .
The drugs they distributed include significant quantities of methamphetamine , cocaine and heroin .
The Indictments are the result of this long-term investigation , including court-authorized wiretaps on the cell phones of key members of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Pagans Motorcycle Club .
The investigation , which was wide-spread , also resulted in identifying large-scale suppliers of narcotics not only to members and associates of the Pagans , but to local drug traffickers and suppliers within the Greater Pittsburgh Region .
During the course of the investigation , which began @ @ @ @ @ @ @ received information pertaining to the suspected illegal activities of Bill Rana , aka “ Pittsburgh Billy ” , Eric Armes aka “ Knuckles ” , Jason Evans aka “ Shahid ” , and Patrick Rizzo , who have all been identified as suspected members or associates of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Pagans Motorcycle Club , as well as Phillip Bonanno , who has been identified as a suspected member of an Ohio Chapter of the Pagans Motorcycle Club , and others .
The PMC members routinely hold “ church ” , a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , on Thursdays .
They also appeared to hold frequent , large gatherings or parties between PMC members/associates , non-PMC members , and other outlaw motorcycle gangs , at their McKees Rocks Clubhouse , which was one of more than a dozen locations where agents executed federally-authorized search warrants on December 8 , 2020 .
The three Indictments were returned under seal on December 1 , 2020 , and unsealed yesterday .
The first Indictment contains two conspiracy counts and one firearm possession count , and names the following nine individuals as defendants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ of New Philadelphia , OH According to this Indictment , Rana , Armes , C. Bonanno , P. Bonanno , and Quarture conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine , a Schedule II controlled substance between January and November of 2020 .
The Indictment also charges Rana , Evans , James , P. Bonanno , and Stockhausen with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine , a Schedule II controlled substance , also between January and November @ @ @ @ @ @ @ that on or about October 21 , 2020 , Patrick Rizzo , a convicted felon , who is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm , was found to be in possession of a loaded Taurus Judge .45 LC/410 pistol .
As it relates to this count , the Indictment seeks forfeiture of the firearm and ammunition .
The second Indictment contains two counts and names the following nine individuals as defendants : According to this Indictment , the above-named defendants conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or @ @ @ @ @ @ @ controlled substance between January and November of 2020 .
The Indictment further alleges that Peluso , Botta and Snelsire also conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin , a Schedule I controlled substance , also between January and November 2020 .
The third Indictment contains two counts and names the following twelve individuals as defendants : According to this Indictment , Kushik , Hairston , Wofford , Zilka , Walker , Camacho , Collins , and @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine , a Schedule II controlled substance between August and November of 2020 .
The Indictment further charges Kushik , Hairston , Wofford , Zilka , Walker , White , Cherepko , Hulboy and Crivella with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin , a Schedule I controlled substance , also between August and November of 2020 .
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ grams or more of heroin and 500 grams or more of cocaine , the law provides for a minimum sentence of five years ’ and a maximum sentence of 40 years ’ imprisonment , a fine of not more than $ 5,000,000 , or both .
As to the conspiracy count involving 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and one kilogram or more of heroin , the law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years ’ and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment , a fine of not more than $ 10,000,000 @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Rizzo the law provides for a maximum sentence of imprisonment of 10 years , a fine of not more than $ 250,000 , or both .
Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines , the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of each defendant .
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case , which also included the United States Postal Inspection Service , Drug Enforcement Administration , Allegheny County Sheriff ’ s Office , Pennsylvania State Police , Pittsburgh @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations .
Other assisting agencies include the Allegheny County Police Department Homicide , Baldwin Police Department , Brentwood Police Department , McKees Rocks Police Department , Stowe Township Police Department and West Deer Township Police Department .
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force ( OCDETF ) investigation .
OCDETF identifies , disrupts , and dismantles high-level drug traffickers , money launderers , gangs , and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States .
OCDETF uses a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ leverages the strengths of federal , state , and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks .

PITTSBURGH, PA – A federal grand jury in Pittsburgh has issued three separate, but related, Indictments, charging 30 residents of western Pennsylvania and eastern Ohio with narcotics trafficking and firearm possession, United States Attorney Scott W. Brady announced today.
According to U.S. Attorney Brady, the Indictments are a part of an ongoing investigation into members and associates of the Pagans Motorcycle Club (PMC or Pagans) operating in and around western Pennsylvania engaging in illegal activity, including federal violations of drug and firearm laws. The related Indictments are the result of an investigation that began in August of 2018, and ultimately led to a Title III wire investigation with intercepted communications over several telephones from August 2020 through November 2020. The defendants are alleged to have conspired to distribute controlled substances including cocaine, methamphetamine, and heroin.
“For decades, the Pagans have used violence to control cocaine, heroin and meth trafficking throughout western Pennsylvania: that stops now,” said U.S. Attorney Brady. “With the arrests of thirty members and associates of the Pittsburgh chapter of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club, including higher-ranking members, we have disrupted their criminal organization and made western Pennsylvania safer.”
“The members and associates of the Pagan’s Motorcycle Club facing charges today had a complete disregard for the law and the safety of the communities they operate in,” said FBI Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Michael Christman. “Through joint, collaborative investigations and robust partnerships, we will continue to target the leadership of these organizations and bring them to justice for the harm caused by their criminal actions.”
According to the Department of Justice, the PMC is a violent Outlaw Motorcycle Gang whose membership distribute cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, fentanyl, marijuana and other illegal drugs. The Pagans are one of the most prominent outlaw motorcycle gangs in the eastern United States. In addition to the PMC insignia, members of the PMC wear a diamond patch with “1%” inscribed inside, which denotes their claim to be among the one percent of motorcycle riders who are not law abiding.
According to information provided to the court, the three Indictments charge 30 individuals with federal drug trafficking and firearms charges. The drugs they distributed include significant quantities of methamphetamine, cocaine and heroin. The Indictments are the result of this long-term investigation, including court-authorized wiretaps on the cell phones of key members of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Pagans Motorcycle Club. The investigation, which was wide-spread, also resulted in identifying large-scale suppliers of narcotics not only to members and associates of the Pagans, but to local drug traffickers and suppliers within the Greater Pittsburgh Region.
During the course of the investigation, which began in August of 2018, law enforcement received information pertaining to the suspected illegal activities of Bill Rana, aka “Pittsburgh Billy”, Eric Armes aka “Knuckles”, Jason Evans aka “Shahid”, and Patrick Rizzo, who have all been identified as suspected members or associates of the Pittsburgh Chapter of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, as well as Phillip Bonanno, who has been identified as a suspected member of an Ohio Chapter of the Pagans Motorcycle Club, and others.
The PMC members routinely hold “church”, a term used to describe their weekly meetings, on Thursdays. They also appeared to hold frequent, large gatherings or parties between PMC members/associates, non-PMC members, and other outlaw motorcycle gangs, at their McKees Rocks Clubhouse, which was one of more than a dozen locations where agents executed federally-authorized search warrants on December 8, 2020.
The three Indictments were returned under seal on December 1, 2020, and unsealed yesterday.
The first Indictment contains two conspiracy counts and one firearm possession count, and names the following nine individuals as defendants:
• Bill Rana, 40, of Cheswick, PA
• Eric Armes, 42, of Cheswick, PA
• Jason Evans, 44, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Hasani James, 49, of Detroit, MI
• Cody Bonanno, 25, of Uhrichsville, OH
• Phillip Bonanno, 54, of New Philadelphia, OH
• Dominic Quarture, 52, of Washington, PA
• Mark Stockhausen, 39, of Erie, PA
• Patrick Rizzo, 45, of McKees Rocks, PA
According to this Indictment, Rana, Armes, C. Bonanno, P. Bonanno, and Quarture conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance between January and November of 2020. The Indictment also charges Rana, Evans, James, P. Bonanno, and Stockhausen with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance, also between January and November of 2020.
The Indictment further alleges that on or about October 21, 2020, Patrick Rizzo, a convicted felon, who is prohibited from lawfully possessing a firearm, was found to be in possession of a loaded Taurus Judge .45 LC/410 pistol. As it relates to this count, the Indictment seeks forfeiture of the firearm and ammunition.
The second Indictment contains two counts and names the following nine individuals as defendants:
• Anthony Peluso, 38, of Hampton Township, PA
• Marissa Botta, 28, of Hampton Township, PA
• David Pietropaolo, 23, of Glenshaw, PA
• Thomas Snelsire, 45, of Baldwin, PA
• Wayne Webber, 42, of Duquesne, PA
• Ronald Simak, 37, of Verona, PA
• Anthony Scatena, 22, of Pittsburgh, PA
• James Stewart, 41, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Dorin Duncan, 42, of Glenshaw, PA
According to this Indictment, the above-named defendants conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance between January and November of 2020. The Indictment further alleges that Peluso, Botta and Snelsire also conspired to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, also between January and November 2020.
The third Indictment contains two counts and names the following twelve individuals as defendants:
• Jeffrey Kushik, 29, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Gary Hairston, 40, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Darian Wofford, 27, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Stephanie Zilka, 27, of Baldwin, PA
• Misty Walker, 39, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Richard White, 18, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Randy Camacho, 34, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Damian Cherepko, 26, of Elizabeth, PA
• Brandon Hulboy, 29, of Pittsburgh, PA
• James Crivella, 27, of Glenshaw, PA
• Seaira Collins, 32, of Pittsburgh, PA
• Jessica Taranto, 37, of Pittsburgh, PA
According to this Indictment, Kushik, Hairston, Wofford, Zilka, Walker, Camacho, Collins, and Taranto conspired to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine, a Schedule II controlled substance between August and November of 2020. The Indictment further charges Kushik, Hairston, Wofford, Zilka, Walker, White, Cherepko, Hulboy and Crivella with conspiring to distribute and possess with intent to distribute one kilogram or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of heroin, a Schedule I controlled substance, also between August and November of 2020.
As to the conspiracy counts involving 100 grams or more of heroin and 500 grams or more of cocaine, the law provides for a minimum sentence of five years’ and a maximum sentence of 40 years’ imprisonment, a fine of not more than $5,000,000, or both. As to the conspiracy count involving 500 grams or more of methamphetamine and one kilogram or more of heroin, the law provides for a minimum sentence of 10 years’ and a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, a fine of not more than $10,000,000, or both. As to Patrick Rizzo the law provides for a maximum sentence of imprisonment of 10 years, a fine of not more than $250,000, or both. Under the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, the actual sentence imposed would be based upon the seriousness of the offenses and the prior criminal history of each defendant.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation led the multi-agency investigation of this case, which also included the United States Postal Inspection Service, Drug Enforcement Administration, Allegheny County Sheriff’s Office, Pennsylvania State Police, Pittsburgh Bureau of Police, and the Pennsylvania Office of Attorney General Bureau of Narcotics Investigations. Other assisting agencies include the Allegheny County Police Department Homicide, Baldwin Police Department, Brentwood Police Department, McKees Rocks Police Department, Stowe Township Police Department and West Deer Township Police Department.
This prosecution is a result of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles high-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten communities throughout the United States. OCDETF uses a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
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breaking911--2020-12-09--Arizona neo-Nazi gets prison for threatening local journalist

Johnny Roman Garza , 21 , a member of the Neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division , was sentenced today to 16 months in prison and three years of supervised release for his role in a plot to threaten and intimidate journalists and advocates who worked to expose anti-Semitism .
Garza previously pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington to conspiring with other Atomwaffen members to commit three offenses against the United States : interference with federally-protected activities because of religion , in violation of Title 18 , U.S. Code , Section 245 ; mailing threatening @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , U.S. Code , Section 876 ; and cyberstalking , in violation of Title 18 , U.S. Code , Section 2261A .
“ The United States and other nations fought a global war to rid the world of murderous threats and violence by Nazis .
The nation and its allies defeated Nazi Germany , but Nazi-inspired threats and violence continue to plague this nation and others 75 years after the end of World War II .
The defendant threatened a Jewish journalist and conspired to intimidate journalists and advocates who worked to expose @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division .
“ Threats motivated by religious intolerance are unacceptable , and so too are threats aimed at those who work to end such discrimination .
The Justice Department will continue the fight against neo-Nazi-related threats and violence and is committed fully to investigating and prosecuting anyone who commits hate crimes.
” “ While this defendant did not hatch this disturbing plot , he enthusiastically embraced it , researching addresses for journalists and those who oppose hate in our communities , ” said Brian @ @ @ @ @ @ @ District of Washington .
“ Ultimately in the dark of night he delivered a hateful , threatening poster — spreading fear and anxiety .
Such conduct has no place in our community.
” “ Protecting our communities from terrorism , both domestic and international , is a top priority for the FBI , ” said FBI Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Earl Camp .
“ Mr .
Garza , along with his conspirators , targeted and intimidated journalists from minority groups with communications threatening violence .
We are proud of the collaborative @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Joint Terrorism Task Forces and other law enforcement partners to hold these individuals accountable for their actions.
” In his plea agreement , Garza admitted that he conspired with the other defendants via an encrypted online chat group to identify journalists and advocates to threaten in retaliation for the victims ’ work exposing anti-Semitism .
The group focused primarily on journalists and advocates who were Jewish or people of color .
In a message to the other co-defendants , Garza explained that the plot was designed to “ have them all wake up @ @ @ @ @ @ @ targeted propaganda.
” On the night of Jan. 25 , 2020 , Garza placed a poster on the bedroom window of a prominent Jewish journalist that depicted a figure in a skull mask holding a Molotov cocktail in front of a burning home .
The poster contained the victim ’ s name and address , and warned , “ Your actions have consequences .
Our patience has its limits .
.
.
You have been visited by your local Nazis .
”

Johnny Roman Garza, 21, a member of the Neo-Nazi group Atomwaffen Division, was sentenced today to 16 months in prison and three years of supervised release for his role in a plot to threaten and intimidate journalists and advocates who worked to expose anti-Semitism.
Garza previously pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Washington to conspiring with other Atomwaffen members to commit three offenses against the United States: interference with federally-protected activities because of religion, in violation of Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 245; mailing threatening communications, in violation of Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 876; and cyberstalking, in violation of Title 18, U.S. Code, Section 2261A.
“The United States and other nations fought a global war to rid the world of murderous threats and violence by Nazis. The nation and its allies defeated Nazi Germany, but Nazi-inspired threats and violence continue to plague this nation and others 75 years after the end of World War II. The defendant threatened a Jewish journalist and conspired to intimidate journalists and advocates who worked to expose anti-Semitism around the country,” said Assistant Attorney General Eric Dreiband of the Civil Rights Division. “Threats motivated by religious intolerance are unacceptable, and so too are threats aimed at those who work to end such discrimination. The Justice Department will continue the fight against neo-Nazi-related threats and violence and is committed fully to investigating and prosecuting anyone who commits hate crimes.”
“While this defendant did not hatch this disturbing plot, he enthusiastically embraced it, researching addresses for journalists and those who oppose hate in our communities,” said Brian T. Moran U.S. Attorney for the Western District of Washington. “Ultimately in the dark of night he delivered a hateful, threatening poster — spreading fear and anxiety. Such conduct has no place in our community.”
“Protecting our communities from terrorism, both domestic and international, is a top priority for the FBI,” said FBI Seattle Acting Special Agent in Charge Earl Camp. “Mr. Garza, along with his conspirators, targeted and intimidated journalists from minority groups with communications threatening violence. We are proud of the collaborative nationwide efforts of the FBI’s Joint Terrorism Task Forces and other law enforcement partners to hold these individuals accountable for their actions.”
In his plea agreement, Garza admitted that he conspired with the other defendants via an encrypted online chat group to identify journalists and advocates to threaten in retaliation for the victims’ work exposing anti-Semitism. The group focused primarily on journalists and advocates who were Jewish or people of color. In a message to the other co-defendants, Garza explained that the plot was designed to “have them all wake up one morning and find themselves terrorized by targeted propaganda.” On the night of Jan. 25, 2020, Garza placed a poster on the bedroom window of a prominent Jewish journalist that depicted a figure in a skull mask holding a Molotov cocktail in front of a burning home. The poster contained the victim’s name and address, and warned, “Your actions have consequences. Our patience has its limits . . . You have been visited by your local Nazis.”
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breaking911--2020-12-09--Texas School Nurse Charged With ‘Improper Relationship With Student’

ROSEBUD-LOTT , Texas — A school nurse in Texas turned herself in Wednesday after police say she had a ‘ @ @ @ @ @ .
Erin Lewie , an employee of the Rosebud-Lott school district , was booked on @ @ @ @ @ between an educator and student.
” Falls County Constable Jerry Loden initially took out the @ @ @ @ @ further details were available .

ROSEBUD-LOTT, Texas — A school nurse in Texas turned herself in Wednesday after police say she had a ‘relationship’ with a student.
Erin Lewie, an employee of the Rosebud-Lott school district, was booked on charges of “improper relationship between an educator and student.”
Falls County Constable Jerry Loden initially took out the warrant for Lewie. No further details were available.
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breaking911--2020-12-09--BREAKING: Hunter Biden Says US Attorney’s Office In Delaware Is Investigating His ‘Tax Affairs’

The Biden Transition Team released a statement from Hunter Biden , son of President-elect Joe Biden on Wednesday .
The @ @ @ @ @ son says he has been made aware that his “ tax affairs ” are under @ @ @ @ @ yesterday for the first time that the U.S. Attorney ’ s Office in Delaware advised @ @ @ @ @ yesterday , that they are investigating my tax affairs .
I take this matter very @ @ @ @ @ that a professional and objective review of these matters will demonstrate that I handled my @ @ @ @ @ including with the benefit of professional tax advisors.
“ “ President-elect Biden is deeply proud @ @ @ @ @ has fought through difficult challenges , including the vicious personal attacks of recent months , @ @ @ @ @

The Biden Transition Team released a statement from Hunter Biden, son of President-elect Joe Biden on Wednesday. The former Vice President’s son says he has been made aware that his “tax affairs” are under investigation.
Hunter Biden’s said in a statement:
“I learned yesterday for the first time that the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Delaware advised my legal counsel, also yesterday, that they are investigating my tax affairs. I take this matter very seriously but I am confident that a professional and objective review of these matters will demonstrate that I handled my affairs legally and appropriately, including with the benefit of professional tax advisors.“
The Biden-Harris Transition team wrote:
“President-elect Biden is deeply proud of his son, who has fought through difficult challenges, including the vicious personal attacks of recent months, only to emerge stronger.“
DEVELOPING STORY
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breaking911--2020-12-09--JUST IN: Video Shows Officers Begging Man To Show His Hands Before He’s Shot Dead In ‘Suicide-By-Cop

JUST IN: Video Shows Officers Begging Man To Show His Hands Before He’s Shot Dead In ‘Suicide-By-Cop’

TAMPA , FL — ( Scroll Down For Video ) — The Hillsborough County Sheriff ’ s Office is releasing the body-worn camera video of a deputy-involved shooting that took place Tuesday night , December 8 , 2020 , in Riverview .
Dylan Scott was fatally shot when he repeatedly ignored commands to show his hands after telling deputies he had a firearm on his waistband , which you can hear him say at 2:48 into the body-camera video .
Scott motioned for a gun just before deputies fired gunshots .
“ The body-worn camera video shows the more than @ @ @ @ @ @ @ with Dylan Scott as they tried to de-escalate the situation last night , ” said Sheriff Chad Chronister .
“ In any given situation , I never want it to end with someone losing their life .
Our deputies did all they could to try to end last night ’ s events peacefully , and for the sake of transparency , I believe this video shows that effort.
” An officer safety alert in reference to Scott was issued to Tampa Bay area law enforcement on July 29 , 2020 .
Scott ’ @ @ @ @ @ @ @ a note at her home claiming he wanted to die via suicide by cop .
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement ( FDLE ) has confirmed that no firearm was located in Scott ’ s vehicle at the time of the shooting .
FDLE is investigating the incident .

TAMPA, FL — (Scroll Down For Video) — The Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office is releasing the body-worn camera video of a deputy-involved shooting that took place Tuesday night, December 8, 2020, in Riverview.
Dylan Scott was fatally shot when he repeatedly ignored commands to show his hands after telling deputies he had a firearm on his waistband, which you can hear him say at 2:48 into the body-camera video. Scott motioned for a gun just before deputies fired gunshots.
“The body-worn camera video shows the more than three minutes our deputies begged and pleaded with Dylan Scott as they tried to de-escalate the situation last night,” said Sheriff Chad Chronister. “In any given situation, I never want it to end with someone losing their life. Our deputies did all they could to try to end last night’s events peacefully, and for the sake of transparency, I believe this video shows that effort.”
An officer safety alert in reference to Scott was issued to Tampa Bay area law enforcement on July 29, 2020. Scott’s mother called HCSO when he left a note at her home claiming he wanted to die via suicide by cop.
The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has confirmed that no firearm was located in Scott’s vehicle at the time of the shooting. FDLE is investigating the incident.
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breaking911--2020-12-10--FDA Authorizes 1st Over-The-Counter COVID-19 Test For Home Use

Test system is authorized for at-home sample collection with laboratory test processing Today , the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized LabCorp ’ s Pixel COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit for use by any individual 18 years and older without a prescription .
This product , which is authorized as the first COVID-19 direct-to-consumer ( non-prescription ) test system , allows an individual to self-collect a nasal swab sample at home and then send that sample for testing to LabCorp .
Positive or invalid test results are then delivered to the user by phone call from a health care provider @ @ @ @ @ @ @ email or online portal .
This home sample collection kit can be purchased online or in a store without a prescription .
It is intended to enable users to access information about their COVID-19 infection status that could aid with determining if self-isolation ( quarantine ) is appropriate and to assist with health care decisions after discussion with a health care professional .
“ This is the first kit for consumers to self-collect a nasal sample for COVID-19 in their home that does not require a prescription , ” said Jeff Shuren , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ’ s Center for Devices and Radiological Health .
“ While many home collection kits can be prescribed with a simple online questionnaire , this newly authorized direct-to-consumer collection kit removes that step from the process , allowing anyone to collect their sample and send it to the lab for processing.
” The FDA , an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services , protects the public health by assuring the safety , effectiveness , and security of human and veterinary drugs , vaccines and other biological products for human @ @ @ @ @ @ @ agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation ’ s food supply , cosmetics , dietary supplements , products that give off electronic radiation , and for regulating tobacco products .

Test system is authorized for at-home sample collection with laboratory test processing
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration authorized LabCorp’s Pixel COVID-19 Test Home Collection Kit for use by any individual 18 years and older without a prescription. This product, which is authorized as the first COVID-19 direct-to-consumer (non-prescription) test system, allows an individual to self-collect a nasal swab sample at home and then send that sample for testing to LabCorp. Positive or invalid test results are then delivered to the user by phone call from a health care provider. Negative test results are delivered via email or online portal.
This home sample collection kit can be purchased online or in a store without a prescription. It is intended to enable users to access information about their COVID-19 infection status that could aid with determining if self-isolation (quarantine) is appropriate and to assist with health care decisions after discussion with a health care professional.
“This is the first kit for consumers to self-collect a nasal sample for COVID-19 in their home that does not require a prescription,” said Jeff Shuren, M.D., J.D., director of FDA’s Center for Devices and Radiological Health. “While many home collection kits can be prescribed with a simple online questionnaire, this newly authorized direct-to-consumer collection kit removes that step from the process, allowing anyone to collect their sample and send it to the lab for processing.”
The FDA, an agency within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, protects the public health by assuring the safety, effectiveness, and security of human and veterinary drugs, vaccines and other biological products for human use, and medical devices. The agency also is responsible for the safety and security of our nation’s food supply, cosmetics, dietary supplements, products that give off electronic radiation, and for regulating tobacco products.
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breaking911--2020-12-10--F-16 Pilot Who Crashed In Michigan Found Dead

The Wisconsin Air National Guard ’ s 115th Fighter Wing announced today the death of an F-16 pilot who crashed in Michigan ’ s Upper Peninsula Dec. 8 .
Per Department of Defense policy , the 115th Fighter Wing will not release the pilot ’ s identity until 24 hours after notifying the service member ’ s next of kin .
“ We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss ; our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time , ” 115th Fighter Wing commander Col. Bart Van Roo said .
“ Today is a day @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and the entire Wisconsin National Guard stands with the pilot ’ s family as we grieve the loss of a great Airman , and patriot.
” “ We are an extremely close knit group at the fighter wing , the loss of one of our own brings immeasurable sadness to every member of our organization , ” he said .
The crash occurred within Michigan ’ s Hiawatha National Forest during a training mission Tuesday night .
A multi-state , interagency search for the pilot and aircraft immediately followed the crash .
The @ @ @ @ @ @ @ .
The 115th Fighter Wing is appreciative of the community support provided to its members and will release additional details as they become available .

The Wisconsin Air National Guard’s 115th Fighter Wing announced today the death of an F-16 pilot who crashed in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula Dec. 8.
Per Department of Defense policy, the 115th Fighter Wing will not release the pilot’s identity until 24 hours after notifying the service member’s next of kin.
“We are deeply saddened by this tragic loss; our thoughts and prayers are with the family during this difficult time,” 115th Fighter Wing commander Col. Bart Van Roo said. “Today is a day for mourning, the 115th Fighter Wing and the entire Wisconsin National Guard stands with the pilot’s family as we grieve the loss of a great Airman, and patriot.”
“We are an extremely close knit group at the fighter wing, the loss of one of our own brings immeasurable sadness to every member of our organization,” he said.
The crash occurred within Michigan’s Hiawatha National Forest during a training mission Tuesday night. A multi-state, interagency search for the pilot and aircraft immediately followed the crash. The cause of the crash is under investigation.
The 115th Fighter Wing is appreciative of the community support provided to its members and will release additional details as they become available.
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breaking911--2020-12-10--Federal Murder Charges Filed in Assassination of Philadelphia Police Officer

Four people have been charged with the murder of Philadelphia Police Corporal James “ Jimmy ” O ’ Connor , posthumously promoted to Sergeant , and related drug trafficking and firearms offenses .
The defendants charged in the Indictment are Hassan Elliott , a/k/a “ Haz , ” age 22 ; Bilal Mitchell , a/k/a “ Omar , ” a/k/a “ Walkdown , ” age 20 ; Khalif Sears , a/k/a “ Leaf , ” a/k/a “ Lil Leaf , ” age 19 ; and Sherman Easterling , a/k/a “ Foot , ” a/k/a “ Foot on da gas , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , PA. During a news conference outside the federal courthouse , U.S. Attorney McSwain discussed the charges in the seven-count Indictment .
All four defendants are charged with : murder in the course of using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime ; using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime ; possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking ; conspiracy to distribute “ crack ” cocaine and marijuana ; possession with the intent to distribute “ crack ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ drug involved premises .
Additionally , the Indictment charges defendants Elliott and Easterling with possession of a firearm by a felon .
The Indictment alleges that the defendants are members of a violent drug trafficking group known as “ 1700 Scattergood , ” which operates in the Frankford section of Northeast Philadelphia .
The defendants allegedly sold narcotics from a stash house they maintained where they kept an arsenal of weaponry , drugs and drug paraphernalia .
On March 13 , 2020 , the defendants were inside the stash house property in the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ O ’ Connor and other members of the Philadelphia Police Department ’ s SWAT team arrived with arrest and search warrants .
As Sergeant O ’ Connor and his fellow officers ascended the staircase to the second floor of the residence and announced their presence multiple times , Elliott allegedly fired a semi-automatic assault rifle 16 times , striking and killing Sergeant O ’ Connor .
A subsequent search of the property revealed the scope of the defendants ’ alleged drug trafficking conspiracy : ten firearms , bulk and packaged “ crack ” @ @ @ @ @ @ @ and items commonly used to package and sell narcotics , such as a scale and packaging materials .
“ The murder of a police officer is one of the most agonizing things that a community can experience , and my heart goes out to the O ’ Connor family .
Sadly , this year has already seen more shootings in Philadelphia than in any other year – ever , ” said U.S. Attorney McSwain .
“ In order to address this epidemic of violence in our city , we must have the courage @ @ @ @ @ @ @ is that , as a practical matter , District Attorney Larry Krasner ’ s pro-violent defendant policies are what kept Hassan Elliott on the street ; they put this horrible chain of events in motion ; and in that sense , they are every bit as responsible for Sergeant O ’ Connor ’ s alleged murder as the defendants .
While we can not bring Sergeant O ’ Connor back , we can honor him by seeking justice and doing all that we can to prevent this type of tragedy from occurring again.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ s commitment to working with our local , state and federal partners to help diminish the violent crime that continues to plague Philadelphia , ” said Matthew Varisco , Special Agent in charge of ATF Philadelphia ’ s Filed Division .
“ I commend the hard work of the investigators and detectives of the Philadelphia Police Department that made these charges possible and that hopefully will prevent another potential crime or death .
I also thank the U.S. Attorney ’ s Office for their guidance and work prosecuting this case.
” This case @ @ @ @ @ @ @ PSN ) , a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone .
The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department ’ s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals , directing all U.S. Attorney ’ s Offices to work in partnership with federal , state , local , and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective , locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime .
If convicted , the defendants @ @ @ @ @ @ @ imprisonment .
However , contained within the Indictment is a Notice of Special Findings for defendant Elliott with regard to the charge of murder while using or carrying a firearm .
This Notice makes Elliott eligible for the death penalty .
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms , and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department , and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Diviny and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Ashley Martin and Lauren Stram .

Four people have been charged with the murder of Philadelphia Police Corporal James “Jimmy” O’Connor, posthumously promoted to Sergeant, and related drug trafficking and firearms offenses. The defendants charged in the Indictment are Hassan Elliott, a/k/a “Haz,” age 22; Bilal Mitchell, a/k/a “Omar,” a/k/a “Walkdown,” age 20; Khalif Sears, a/k/a “Leaf,” a/k/a “Lil Leaf,” age 19; and Sherman Easterling, a/k/a “Foot,” a/k/a “Foot on da gas,” age 25, all of Philadelphia, PA.
During a news conference outside the federal courthouse, U.S. Attorney McSwain discussed the charges in the seven-count Indictment. All four defendants are charged with: murder in the course of using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime; using or carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime; possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking; conspiracy to distribute “crack” cocaine and marijuana; possession with the intent to distribute “crack” cocaine and marijuana; and maintaining a drug involved premises. Additionally, the Indictment charges defendants Elliott and Easterling with possession of a firearm by a felon.
The Indictment alleges that the defendants are members of a violent drug trafficking group known as “1700 Scattergood,” which operates in the Frankford section of Northeast Philadelphia. The defendants allegedly sold narcotics from a stash house they maintained where they kept an arsenal of weaponry, drugs and drug paraphernalia. On March 13, 2020, the defendants were inside the stash house property in the 1600 block of Bridge Street when Sergeant O’Connor and other members of the Philadelphia Police Department’s SWAT team arrived with arrest and search warrants. As Sergeant O’Connor and his fellow officers ascended the staircase to the second floor of the residence and announced their presence multiple times, Elliott allegedly fired a semi-automatic assault rifle 16 times, striking and killing Sergeant O’Connor.
A subsequent search of the property revealed the scope of the defendants’ alleged drug trafficking conspiracy: ten firearms, bulk and packaged “crack” cocaine, bulk and packaged marijuana, and items commonly used to package and sell narcotics, such as a scale and packaging materials.
“The murder of a police officer is one of the most agonizing things that a community can experience, and my heart goes out to the O’Connor family. Sadly, this year has already seen more shootings in Philadelphia than in any other year – ever,” said U.S. Attorney McSwain. “In order to address this epidemic of violence in our city, we must have the courage to tell the truth. The truth is that, as a practical matter, District Attorney Larry Krasner’s pro-violent defendant policies are what kept Hassan Elliott on the street; they put this horrible chain of events in motion; and in that sense, they are every bit as responsible for Sergeant O’Connor’s alleged murder as the defendants. While we cannot bring Sergeant O’Connor back, we can honor him by seeking justice and doing all that we can to prevent this type of tragedy from occurring again.”
“This indictment shows ATF’s commitment to working with our local, state and federal partners to help diminish the violent crime that continues to plague Philadelphia,” said Matthew Varisco, Special Agent in charge of ATF Philadelphia’s Filed Division. “I commend the hard work of the investigators and detectives of the Philadelphia Police Department that made these charges possible and that hopefully will prevent another potential crime or death. I also thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their guidance and work prosecuting this case.”
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. The Department of Justice reinvigorated PSN in 2017 as part of the Department’s renewed focus on targeting violent criminals, directing all U.S. Attorney’s Offices to work in partnership with federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement and the local community to develop effective, locally-based strategies to reduce violent crime.
If convicted, the defendants face a maximum possible penalty of lifetime imprisonment. However, contained within the Indictment is a Notice of Special Findings for defendant Elliott with regard to the charge of murder while using or carrying a firearm. This Notice makes Elliott eligible for the death penalty.
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Philadelphia Police Department, and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher Diviny and Special Assistant United States Attorneys Ashley Martin and Lauren Stram.
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breaking911--2020-12-10--40 People Charged In Largest Federal Racketeering Conspiracy In South Carolina History

Columbia , South Carolina — United States Attorney Peter M. McCoy , Jr. , announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a 147-count superseding indictment against 40 defendants across South Carolina in the largest federal racketeering conspiracy in South Carolina history .
The indictment alleges a sprawling criminal enterprise whereby inmates with the South Carolina Department of Corrections ( SCDC ) , often by means of contraband cell phones , orchestrated murder , kidnapping , firearms distribution , and an international drug operation .
Specifically , the grand jury charged 17 of the defendants with conspiracy under the @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ) Act , a statute designed to eliminate organized crime and prosecute the racketeering activities of these organizations .
Several of the crimes alleged in the indictment were charged under the Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering ( VICAR ) statute , which makes it a crime for a person to commit any of a list of violent crimes in return for , among other things , maintaining or increasing position within the enterprise .
Of the 40 defendants , 24 defendants were charged in the initial indictment in this case for conduct @ @ @ @ @ @ @ enterprise ’ s drug trafficking organization .
“ The defendants allegedly operated a violent and lucrative drug enterprise on behalf of the Insane Gangster Disciples while incarcerated , ” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department ’ s Criminal Division .
“ The department is committed to investigating and prosecuting gang-related crimes no matter where they occur , including holding those accountable who engage in criminal activity while in prison.
” “ To anyone who would try to harm the people of South Carolina with violence , intimidation @ @ @ @ @ @ @ you wherever you are , ” said United States Attorney McCoy .
“ Neither pandemic nor prison walls will provide refuge from the full force of the federal government.
” The case began in July 2017 as an investigation by a number of agencies , including the Bureau of Alcohol , Tobacco , Firearms and Explosives ( ATF ) , the Lexington County Multi-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team , and the Eleventh Circuit Solicitor ’ s Office , into methamphetamine trafficking and the illegal sale of firearms .
The investigation grew and began to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ IGD ) , a branch of the nationwide gang Folk Nation .
According to the indictment , several IGD members , while SCDC inmates and with the assistance of others on the outside , ran a drug empire from prison using contraband cell phones and other means .
Further , the indictment alleges that several IGD members in prison ordered violent retaliatory measures against those they believed were providing information to law enforcement and against individuals they believed had stolen drug proceeds or owed money to the gang .
It is alleged these @ @ @ @ @ @ @ kidnapping , were often carried out by IGD members outside the jails .
Additionally , the 101-page indictment alleges that to perpetuate the enterprise and to maintain and extend its power , members and associates of the gang committed , attempted to commit , and conspired to commit , additional acts such as armed robbery , extortion , arson , assault and battery , drug trafficking , money laundering , and obstruction of justice .
“ While the U.S. Attorney ’ s Office in South Carolina has a long and respected history of @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in the past year , my office has taken an even deeper look into the violence of organized crime and drug gangs , ” United States Attorney McCoy added .
“ As such , we have sought and received some of the harshest sentences of any U.S. Attorney ’ s Office in the country .
Be it in jail or on the outside , organized crime organizations in South Carolina will be sought out as aggressively as the law allows.
” “ This was a complex , multi-jurisdictional investigation aimed at taking down @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in our states , ” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Vince Pallozzi .
“ The brazen criminal acts charged fueled gun violence and drug trafficking in numerous counties and cities .
To shut down this alleged operation is a major win for public safety in South Carolina.
” “ This alleged vast and brazen criminal enterprise only could have been dismantled by a united and dedicated team of law enforcement officers from across this state , ” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic .
“ The FBI is proud to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ will see this investigation through and will remain vigilant to identify and arrest all those who try to destroy our communities through violence and drug trafficking.
” “ As alleged in the indictments , illegal cell phones enabled these inmates to operate a sophisticated , international drug trafficking ring from inside prison walls , ” said Bryan Stirling , Director of the S.C. Department of Corrections .
“ We can not ensure the public is safe from criminals until states are allowed to jam cell phone signals .
We need Congress to act @ @ @ @ @ @ @ schedule a hearing on the Cellphone Jamming Reform Act.
” “ It goes without saying that the success of this case would not have materialized if it weren ’ t for the intentional open line of communication between all the agencies involved , ” said Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis .
“ The tremendous collaboration between agencies and their willingness to put the success of the investigation above all else is a testament to the professionalism in our state and I am so proud to be a part of this law enforcement family.
@ @ @ @ @ @ @ the cooperation of law enforcement involved in this case and the officers from our agency , ” said Cherokee County Sheriff Steve Mueller .
“ The criminals who desire to prey on our citizens should know we stand ready to pursue them relentlessly using all available resources at the local , state and federal level to hold them accountable for violating the law.
” “ This case is a result of hard work and long hours , ” said Laurens County Sheriff Don Reynolds .
“ I ’ m proud of the hard @ @ @ @ @ @ @ s Office .
I ’ m also glad for the team effort of all involved to achieve these results.
” “ We are proud to have worked with all the participating local , state and federal agencies to get a high volume of drugs and guns off the street , ” said Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon .
“ Communities are safer because of all the cooperation between agencies .
With strong relationships in place , we can really make a difference in the lives of those we serve.
” “ Criminals will @ @ @ @ @ @ @ , ” said Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott .
“ And even if they try to take advantage of jurisdictional lines , they will not get away with their misdeeds .
No matter how long it takes , we will get them.
” “ The interagency partnership in this case was unprecedented and has increased the safety of not only our community but those throughout the state as well , ” said Anderson County Sheriff Chad McBride .
“ Once again , we see the tremendous cooperation of law enforcement in South Carolina @ @ @ @ @ @ @ Clark .
“ Our professional narcotics agents across the state work tirelessly to make these arrests and fight the war on drugs in our communities.
” The following defendants have been charged in the indictment for conduct related to their alleged roles in the RICO conspiracy and/or related crimes : Of these defendants , Ward , Peterson , Akridge , and Rodriguez were serving sentences in SCDC at the time the alleged crimes were committed .
Every defendant charged in the RICO conspiracy faces the potential penalty of life in prison due to @ @ @ @ @ @ @ in murders and significant drug trafficking .
Additionally , the defendants charged with murder in aid of racketeering and kidnapping in aid of racketeering also face life imprisonment .
There are additional penalties for those charged with firearms crimes , drug crimes , robbery , and assault .
In connection with the investigation , law enforcement seized approximately 40 kilograms of methamphetamine , more than 130 firearms , and various quantities of heroin and fentanyl .
The case was investigated by the ATF , Federal Bureau of Investigation ( FBI ) , Lexington @ @ @ @ @ @ @ County Multi-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team , SCDC , Greenville County Sheriff ’ s Office , Anderson County Sheriff ’ s Office , South Carolina Law Enforcement Division ( SLED ) , Cherokee County Sheriff ’ s Office , Laurens County Sheriff ’ s Office , Pickens County Sheriff ’ s Office , and Richland County Sheriff ’ s Department .
The South Carolina Attorney General ’ s Office , Fifth Circuit Solicitor ’ s Office , Eighth Circuit Solicitor ’ s Office , Eleventh Circuit Solicitor ’ s Office , and Thirteenth Circuit @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the case .

Columbia, South Carolina — United States Attorney Peter M. McCoy, Jr., announced today that a federal grand jury has returned a 147-count superseding indictment against 40 defendants across South Carolina in the largest federal racketeering conspiracy in South Carolina history. The indictment alleges a sprawling criminal enterprise whereby inmates with the South Carolina Department of Corrections (SCDC), often by means of contraband cell phones, orchestrated murder, kidnapping, firearms distribution, and an international drug operation.
Specifically, the grand jury charged 17 of the defendants with conspiracy under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act, a statute designed to eliminate organized crime and prosecute the racketeering activities of these organizations. Several of the crimes alleged in the indictment were charged under the Violent Crimes in Aid of Racketeering (VICAR) statute, which makes it a crime for a person to commit any of a list of violent crimes in return for, among other things, maintaining or increasing position within the enterprise. Of the 40 defendants, 24 defendants were charged in the initial indictment in this case for conduct related to their alleged roles in the enterprise’s drug trafficking organization.
“The defendants allegedly operated a violent and lucrative drug enterprise on behalf of the Insane Gangster Disciples while incarcerated,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Brian C. Rabbitt of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The department is committed to investigating and prosecuting gang-related crimes no matter where they occur, including holding those accountable who engage in criminal activity while in prison.”
“To anyone who would try to harm the people of South Carolina with violence, intimidation or extortion, we are coming after you wherever you are,” said United States Attorney McCoy. “Neither pandemic nor prison walls will provide refuge from the full force of the federal government.”
The case began in July 2017 as an investigation by a number of agencies, including the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Lexington County Multi-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team, and the Eleventh Circuit Solicitor’s Office, into methamphetamine trafficking and the illegal sale of firearms. The investigation grew and began to focus on the Insane Gangster Disciples (IGD), a branch of the nationwide gang Folk Nation.
According to the indictment, several IGD members, while SCDC inmates and with the assistance of others on the outside, ran a drug empire from prison using contraband cell phones and other means. Further, the indictment alleges that several IGD members in prison ordered violent retaliatory measures against those they believed were providing information to law enforcement and against individuals they believed had stolen drug proceeds or owed money to the gang. It is alleged these violent acts, to include murder and kidnapping, were often carried out by IGD members outside the jails. Additionally, the 101-page indictment alleges that to perpetuate the enterprise and to maintain and extend its power, members and associates of the gang committed, attempted to commit, and conspired to commit, additional acts such as armed robbery, extortion, arson, assault and battery, drug trafficking, money laundering, and obstruction of justice.
“While the U.S. Attorney’s Office in South Carolina has a long and respected history of seeking justice for victims of crime, in the past year, my office has taken an even deeper look into the violence of organized crime and drug gangs,” United States Attorney McCoy added. “As such, we have sought and received some of the harshest sentences of any U.S. Attorney’s Office in the country. Be it in jail or on the outside, organized crime organizations in South Carolina will be sought out as aggressively as the law allows.”
“This was a complex, multi-jurisdictional investigation aimed at taking down an alleged criminal operation of historic reach in our states,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Vince Pallozzi. “The brazen criminal acts charged fueled gun violence and drug trafficking in numerous counties and cities. To shut down this alleged operation is a major win for public safety in South Carolina.”
“This alleged vast and brazen criminal enterprise only could have been dismantled by a united and dedicated team of law enforcement officers from across this state,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Susan Ferensic. “The FBI is proud to be part of that team. We will see this investigation through and will remain vigilant to identify and arrest all those who try to destroy our communities through violence and drug trafficking.”
“As alleged in the indictments, illegal cell phones enabled these inmates to operate a sophisticated, international drug trafficking ring from inside prison walls,” said Bryan Stirling, Director of the S.C. Department of Corrections. “We cannot ensure the public is safe from criminals until states are allowed to jam cell phone signals. We need Congress to act on this pressing public safety issue and schedule a hearing on the Cellphone Jamming Reform Act.”
“It goes without saying that the success of this case would not have materialized if it weren’t for the intentional open line of communication between all the agencies involved,” said Greenville County Sheriff Hobart Lewis. “The tremendous collaboration between agencies and their willingness to put the success of the investigation above all else is a testament to the professionalism in our state and I am so proud to be a part of this law enforcement family.”
“I’m proud of the cooperation of law enforcement involved in this case and the officers from our agency,” said Cherokee County Sheriff Steve Mueller. “The criminals who desire to prey on our citizens should know we stand ready to pursue them relentlessly using all available resources at the local, state and federal level to hold them accountable for violating the law.”
“This case is a result of hard work and long hours,” said Laurens County Sheriff Don Reynolds. “I’m proud of the hard work by the Laurens County Sheriff’s Office. I’m also glad for the team effort of all involved to achieve these results.”
“We are proud to have worked with all the participating local, state and federal agencies to get a high volume of drugs and guns off the street,” said Lexington County Sheriff Jay Koon. “Communities are safer because of all the cooperation between agencies. With strong relationships in place, we can really make a difference in the lives of those we serve.”
“Criminals will realize that law enforcement agencies work together,” said Richland County Sheriff Leon Lott. “And even if they try to take advantage of jurisdictional lines, they will not get away with their misdeeds. No matter how long it takes, we will get them.”
“The interagency partnership in this case was unprecedented and has increased the safety of not only our community but those throughout the state as well,” said Anderson County Sheriff Chad McBride.
“Once again, we see the tremendous cooperation of law enforcement in South Carolina,” said Pickens County Sheriff Rick Clark. “Our professional narcotics agents across the state work tirelessly to make these arrests and fight the war on drugs in our communities.”
The following defendants have been charged in the indictment for conduct related to their alleged roles in the RICO conspiracy and/or related crimes:
Matthew J. Ward, a/k/a “Bones,” 36, of Lexington;
Rebecca Martinez, 33, of Lexington;
Cynthia Rooks, 52, of Lexington;
Richard Ford, 62, of Lexington;
Amber Hoffman, 26, of Lexington;
Samuel Dexter Judy, 29, of Lexington;
Brian Bruce, 48, of West Columbia;
Montana Barefoot, 25, of Lexington;
John Johnson, 36, of Gaston;
Kelly Still, 43, of Windsor;
Benjamin Singleton, 46, of Lexington;
Kayla Mattoni, 38, of Lexington;
Alexia Youngbllod, 38, of Lexington;
Clifford Kyzer, 35, of Lexington;
Kelly Jordan, 34, of Williamston;
Mark Edward Slusher, 46, of Lexington;
Robert Figueroa, 43, of West Columbia;
Tiffanie Brooks, 36, of Columbia;
Crystal Nicole Bright, 40, of Lexington;
Brittney Shae Stephens, 32, of Anderson;
Arian Grace Jeane, 26, of Greenville;
Lisa Marie Costello, 43, of Gaffney;
Aaron Corey Sprouse, 29, of Gaffney;
Matthew Edward Clark, 41, of York;
James Robert Peterson, a/k/a/ “Man Man,” 32, of Gaffney;
Edward Gary Akridge, a/k/a “G9,” a/k/a “G9 the Don,” a/k/a/ “Eddie Boss,” 28, of Greenville;
Aaron Michael Carrion, a/k/a “Cap G,” 28, of Lexington;
Heather Henderson Orrick, 33, of Greenville;
Virginia Ruth Ryall, 43, of Gastonia, North Carolina;
Lisa Marie Bolton, 32, of Dallas, North Carolina;
Catherine Amanda Ross, 28, of Gaffney;
Brandon Lee Phillips, a/k/a “Lil B,” 36, of Gaffney;
Billy Wayne Ruppe, 55, of Gaffney;
Windy Brooke George, 21, of Gaffney;
Juan Rodriguez, a/k/a “Fat Boy,” 40, of Woodruff;
Jonathan Eugene Merchant, a/k/a/ “Merck,” 27, of Laurens;
Joshua Lee Scott Brown, 23, of Greenville;
Jennifer Sorgee, 36, of Easley;
Alex Blake Payne, 28, of Greenville; and
Sally Williams Burgess, a/k/a “Cricket,” 37, of Greenville.
Of these defendants, Ward, Peterson, Akridge, and Rodriguez were serving sentences in SCDC at the time the alleged crimes were committed.
Every defendant charged in the RICO conspiracy faces the potential penalty of life in prison due to sentencing enhancements through IGD’s involvement in murders and significant drug trafficking. Additionally, the defendants charged with murder in aid of racketeering and kidnapping in aid of racketeering also face life imprisonment. There are additional penalties for those charged with firearms crimes, drug crimes, robbery, and assault.
In connection with the investigation, law enforcement seized approximately 40 kilograms of methamphetamine, more than 130 firearms, and various quantities of heroin and fentanyl.
The case was investigated by the ATF, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Lexington County Sheriff’s Department, Lexington County Multi-Agency Narcotics Enforcement Team, SCDC, Greenville County Sheriff’s Office, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office, South Carolina Law Enforcement Division (SLED), Cherokee County Sheriff’s Office, Laurens County Sheriff’s Office, Pickens County Sheriff’s Office, and Richland County Sheriff’s Department. The South Carolina Attorney General’s Office, Fifth Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Eighth Circuit Solicitor’s Office, Eleventh Circuit Solicitor’s Office, and Thirteenth Circuit Solicitor’s Office also assisted with the case.
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breaking911--2020-12-10--Cryptocurrency Founder Arrested, Charged In Multimillion-Dollar Exit Scam

Amir Bruno Elmaani , a/k/a “ Bruno Block , ” the founder of the cryptocurrency “ Oyster Pearl , ” has been charged with tax evasion .
As alleged , Elmaani made millions of dollars from the sale of a new cryptocurrency but evaded reporting that income to the IRS , including by filing a false tax return , operating his business and owning assets through pseudonyms and shell companies , obtaining income through nominees , and dealing in gold and cash .
Elmaani was arrested Wednesday morning in Martinsburg , West Virginia .
In a separate civil action , @ @ @ @ @ @ @ civil charges against Elmaani today .
Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said : “ As alleged , Amir Bruno Elmaani purported to establish a high-tech method of financing a high-tech business , but the underlying scheme was old-fashioned fraud and tax evasion .
Elmaani allegedly generated millions by soliciting investor money through his own cryptocurrency , adding to the purportedly fixed number of tokens and converting them to other cryptocurrencies , and failing to report or pay tax on any of the proceeds .
Thanks to the FBI and IRS-CI , Elmaani @ @ @ @ @ @ @ prosecution.
” FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said : “ Taking advantage of the ever-so-popular cryptocurrency market , Elmaani allegedly capitalized on the investments of those who purchased virtual currency through Oyster Pearl , which he founded .
As it turns out , Elmaani was funneling the proceeds of his alleged cryptocurrency scheme through a shell company that hid the true nature of his financial interests , ultimately never paying taxes on his earnings .
With minimal reported income in 2018 , he still managed to spend over $ 10 million @ @ @ @ @ @ @ after today ’ s arrest , he won ’ t be sailing anywhere anytime soon.
” IRS Special Agent-in-Charge Kelly R. Jackson said : “ Ensuring the integrity of our tax system is a priority of IRS-CI .
Evading taxes only aims to deteriorate the confidence in this system and those who fail to pay their fair share will be investigated .
Using cryptocurrency as a means to defraud and evade taxes will not stop our agents from doing what we do best – following the money.
” As alleged in the Indictment @ @ @ @ @ @ @ In September and October 2017 , Elmaani began promoting online his new cryptocurrency known as Pearl tokens .
Using a variation of his online pseudonym “ Bruno Block , ” Elmaani stated that he planned to develop an online data-storage platform , known as Oyster Protocol , which would allow users to purchase online data storage with Pearl tokens .
Instead of using his real name , Elmaani operated almost exclusively online under the pseudonym “ Bruno Block.
” Elmaani concealed his true identity from his prospective employees and business associates and never @ @ @ @ @ @ @ fall of 2017 and thereafter , Elmaani sold Pearl tokens to the investing public through an “ initial coin offering ” and on cryptocurrency market platforms .
ELMAANI announced that he intended to take a “ founder ’ s share ” of Pearl tokens for his own personal use .
Elmaani owned and controlled the subsequently established company Oyster Protocol Inc. through a shell company not associated with his true name .
In a statement issued under Elmaani ’ s online pseudonym on June 7 , 2018 , Elmaani stated that he was @ @ @ @ @ @ @ “ ownership stake ” in Oyster Protocol , but that he had to move the tokens to a different cryptocurrency wallet “ in order to avoid being double-taxed.
” In truth , Elmaani did not report or pay tax on any of his cryptocurrency proceeds .
At various points , Elmaani used friends and family as nominees to receive cryptocurrency proceeds and transfer them or U.S. currency to his own accounts .
Elmaani dealt substantially in precious metals , kept gold bars in a safe on a yacht he owned , and used @ @ @ @ @ @ @ expenses .
In late October 2018 , although the number of Pearl tokens was purportedly fixed , Elmaani used his access to the blockchain technology used to create Pearl tokens to mint new tokens , which he took for his own personal use ( the “ Exit Scheme ” ) .
Elmaani thereby increased the total volume of Pearl tokens .
Shortly after creating the new tokens , Elmaani converted the Pearl tokens he had obtained to other types of cryptocurrency on an online marketplace or exchange .
As a result of his @ @ @ @ @ @ @ on that exchange and the price of Pearl tokens held by investors dropped substantially .
Pearl tokens were subsequently de-listed from the primary exchange where they were traded .
Subsequent to the Exit Scheme , Elmaani used his friends and family to receive cryptocurrency and to transfer funds to a bank account in his name .
While Elmaani initially attempted to hide even “ Bruno Block ’ s ” involvement in the Exit Scheme , he later effectively admitted to the conduct online under his “ Bruno Block ” pseudonym .
In a @ @ @ @ @ @ @ ( “ CEO ” ) of Oyster Protocol Inc. , after the Exit Scheme , the CEO asked Elmaani why he had to take the additional new Pearl tokens if he had already cashed out millions of dollars ’ worth of Pearl tokens in the past .
Elmaani responded , in part , that “ taxes are pretty nasty.
” Elmaani carried out the Exit Scheme only days before the exchange he had used to cash out his Pearl tokens was set to require “ know your customer ” personal identifying information from @ @ @ @ @ @ @ 2017 tax return stating that he had only approximately $ 15,000 of income from a “ patent design ” business , and he filed no return and reported no income to the IRS in 2018 .
Nevertheless , Elmaani spent , in 2018 , over $ 10 million for the purchase of multiple yachts , $ 1.6 million at a carbon fiber composite company , hundreds of thousands of dollars at a home improvement store , and over $ 700,000 for the purchase of two homes , one of which was titled in @ @ @ @ @ @ @ the other in the name of two of his associates .
Elmaani , 28 , is charged with two counts of tax evasion , each of which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison .
The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only , as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge .

Amir Bruno Elmaani, a/k/a “Bruno Block,” the founder of the cryptocurrency “Oyster Pearl,” has been charged with tax evasion. As alleged, Elmaani made millions of dollars from the sale of a new cryptocurrency but evaded reporting that income to the IRS, including by filing a false tax return, operating his business and owning assets through pseudonyms and shell companies, obtaining income through nominees, and dealing in gold and cash. Elmaani was arrested Wednesday morning in Martinsburg, West Virginia.
In a separate civil action, the Securities and Exchange Commission is filing civil charges against Elmaani today.
Acting Manhattan U.S. Attorney Audrey Strauss said: “As alleged, Amir Bruno Elmaani purported to establish a high-tech method of financing a high-tech business, but the underlying scheme was old-fashioned fraud and tax evasion. Elmaani allegedly generated millions by soliciting investor money through his own cryptocurrency, adding to the purportedly fixed number of tokens and converting them to other cryptocurrencies, and failing to report or pay tax on any of the proceeds. Thanks to the FBI and IRS-CI, Elmaani is now in custody and facing federal prosecution.”
FBI Assistant Director William F. Sweeney Jr. said: “Taking advantage of the ever-so-popular cryptocurrency market, Elmaani allegedly capitalized on the investments of those who purchased virtual currency through Oyster Pearl, which he founded. As it turns out, Elmaani was funneling the proceeds of his alleged cryptocurrency scheme through a shell company that hid the true nature of his financial interests, ultimately never paying taxes on his earnings. With minimal reported income in 2018, he still managed to spend over $10 million for the purchase of yachts, but after today’s arrest, he won’t be sailing anywhere anytime soon.”
IRS Special Agent-in-Charge Kelly R. Jackson said: “Ensuring the integrity of our tax system is a priority of IRS-CI. Evading taxes only aims to deteriorate the confidence in this system and those who fail to pay their fair share will be investigated. Using cryptocurrency as a means to defraud and evade taxes will not stop our agents from doing what we do best – following the money.”
As alleged in the Indictment unsealed today in Manhattan federal court:
In September and October 2017, Elmaani began promoting online his new cryptocurrency known as Pearl tokens. Using a variation of his online pseudonym “Bruno Block,” Elmaani stated that he planned to develop an online data-storage platform, known as Oyster Protocol, which would allow users to purchase online data storage with Pearl tokens. Instead of using his real name, Elmaani operated almost exclusively online under the pseudonym “Bruno Block.” Elmaani concealed his true identity from his prospective employees and business associates and never met them in person.
In the fall of 2017 and thereafter, Elmaani sold Pearl tokens to the investing public through an “initial coin offering” and on cryptocurrency market platforms. ELMAANI announced that he intended to take a “founder’s share” of Pearl tokens for his own personal use. Elmaani owned and controlled the subsequently established company Oyster Protocol Inc. through a shell company not associated with his true name.
In a statement issued under Elmaani’s online pseudonym on June 7, 2018, Elmaani stated that he was retaining millions of Pearl tokens as his “ownership stake” in Oyster Protocol, but that he had to move the tokens to a different cryptocurrency wallet “in order to avoid being double-taxed.” In truth, Elmaani did not report or pay tax on any of his cryptocurrency proceeds. At various points, Elmaani used friends and family as nominees to receive cryptocurrency proceeds and transfer them or U.S. currency to his own accounts.
Elmaani dealt substantially in precious metals, kept gold bars in a safe on a yacht he owned, and used large amounts of cash to pay personal expenses.
In late October 2018, although the number of Pearl tokens was purportedly fixed, Elmaani used his access to the blockchain technology used to create Pearl tokens to mint new tokens, which he took for his own personal use (the “Exit Scheme”). Elmaani thereby increased the total volume of Pearl tokens. Shortly after creating the new tokens, Elmaani converted the Pearl tokens he had obtained to other types of cryptocurrency on an online marketplace or exchange. As a result of his conduct, trading in Pearl tokens halted on that exchange and the price of Pearl tokens held by investors dropped substantially. Pearl tokens were subsequently de-listed from the primary exchange where they were traded. Subsequent to the Exit Scheme, Elmaani used his friends and family to receive cryptocurrency and to transfer funds to a bank account in his name.
While Elmaani initially attempted to hide even “Bruno Block’s” involvement in the Exit Scheme, he later effectively admitted to the conduct online under his “Bruno Block” pseudonym. In a recorded call with the then-chief executive officer (“CEO”) of Oyster Protocol Inc., after the Exit Scheme, the CEO asked Elmaani why he had to take the additional new Pearl tokens if he had already cashed out millions of dollars’ worth of Pearl tokens in the past. Elmaani responded, in part, that “taxes are pretty nasty.” Elmaani carried out the Exit Scheme only days before the exchange he had used to cash out his Pearl tokens was set to require “know your customer” personal identifying information from its users.
Elmaani filed a false 2017 tax return stating that he had only approximately $15,000 of income from a “patent design” business, and he filed no return and reported no income to the IRS in 2018. Nevertheless, Elmaani spent, in 2018, over $10 million for the purchase of multiple yachts, $1.6 million at a carbon fiber composite company, hundreds of thousands of dollars at a home improvement store, and over $700,000 for the purchase of two homes, one of which was titled in the name of a shell company and the other in the name of two of his associates.
* * *
Elmaani, 28, is charged with two counts of tax evasion, each of which carries a maximum sentence of five years in prison. The maximum potential sentences are prescribed by Congress and are provided here for informational purposes only, as any sentencing of the defendant will be determined by a judge.
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