St. Paul Field Division
Photo used under Creative Commons from flickr user akeg
Welcome to ATF’s St. Paul Field Division. From the pristine Lake Michigan shores of Wisconsin, extending west through Minnesota’s “Land of 10,000 Lakes,” and continuing to the Black Hills of South Dakota and the Badlands of Theodore Roosevelt National Park in North Dakota, the St. Paul Field Division has a large geographic area of responsibility. Our dedicated work force is comprised of special agents, investigators, auditors, technicians and support staff.
ATF’s St. Paul Field Division special agents combat firearms violence by focusing their investigative efforts on armed violent offenders, career criminals, gun traffickers and gangs. We also work in partnership with other local, state and federal law enforcement agencies throughout the field division to accomplish this mission. Some of our more notable investigations have been the Outlaws motorcycle gang, the Tre-Tre Crips and the Detroit Boys street gangs.
Employees of the ATF St. Paul Field Division are also very proactive in investigating violations of federal law pertaining to arson and explosives. Our high success rate of these investigations is a direct correlation of our close working relationship with the state and local fire departments and police bomb squads.
ATF also has the duty of regulating the firearms and explosives industries. Our industry operations investigators work to ensure that all firearms and explosives are stored, handled and sold in a safe manner according to law.
We encourage all residents to get involved and assist us in our goal of reducing crime in our communities. Give us a call and let us know what we can do for you. Our phone number is (651) 726-0200.
Bernard J. Zapor
Division Management Team
- Bernard J. Zapor
- Special Agent In Charge (SAC)
- Alden J. Fry
- Assistant Special Agent In Charge (ASAC)
- Jeffrey A. Magee
- Assistant Special Agent In Charge (ASAC)
- Mary Jo Hughes
- Director of Industry Operations (DIO)
- Robert M. Schmidt
- Public Information Officer (PIO)
Division Contact Information
Receive St. Paul Press Release Updates
Huron Man Pleads Guilty to Firearms Charge
September 12, 2012
St. Paul – EUS Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Martin Rios, Jr., age 25, of Huron, appeared before US Magistrate Judge John E. Simko on September 12, 2012, and pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Fridley Man Sentenced for Armed Robbery of Columbia Heights Convenience Store
September 12, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 36-year-old Fridley man was sentenced for using a .38-caliber pistol on March 11, 2011, to rob the Totem Superette in Columbia Heights.More »
Man Subject to Protection Order Pleads Guilty to Possessing Firearm
September 6, 2012
Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Samuel Darrell Lane, age 27, of Sioux Falls appeared before United States Magistrate Judge John E. Simko on September 5, 2012, and pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with possession of a firearm while being subject to a domestic protection order.More »
St. Paul Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing a 12-Gauge Shotgun
September 6, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 24-year-old felon from St. Paul pleaded guilty to possessing an unregistered 12-gauge shotgun.More »
Austin Felon Sentenced for Possessing Assault Rifle
September 5, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 31-year-old felon from Austin was sentenced for possessing an assault rifle.More »
Marshall Man Sentenced to 30 Months for Gun Crime
September 4, 2012
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that William J. Ryan, 44, Marshall, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 30 months in federal prison for possession of firearms by a prohibited person. Ryan pleaded guilty to this charge on June 18, 2012.More »
Indictment Charging Three Dane County Men with Drug Distribution is Unsealed
August 31, 2012
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that a federal grand jury sitting in Madison returned a 14-count indictment on August 22, 2012, charging Damien D. Smith, 23, Kordarow Moore, 23, both of Madison, and Milton L. Moore, 22, Fitchburg, Wis., with conspiracy to distribute heroin and crack cocaine, and distribution of heroin and crack cocaine.More »
Career Criminal Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Sawed-Off Shotgun
August 31, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 56-year-old career criminal pleaded guilty to possessing a 20-gauge sawed-off shotgun.More »
Michigan Man Pleads Guilty to Felon in Possession of Firearm
August 29, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Mikado, Michigan, man charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm pled guilty to the charge and was sentenced on August 29, 2012, by United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange. Alan J. Moon, age 56, was sentenced to one month in custody, one year of supervised release, a $2,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Victim Assistance Fund.More »
Moorhead Felon Sentenced for Possessing a .410-gauge Shotgun
August 23, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 27-year-old felon from Moorhead was sentenced for possessing a .410-gauge shotgun. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced Justin James Rodriguez to 108 months in federal prison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
August 22, 2012
Madison, Wisconsin – A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today.More »
Rapid City Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Felon in Possession of a Firearm
August 20, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Christopher Arehart, age 39, of Rapid City, South Dakota, appeared before United States District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on August 16, 2012, and pled guilty to an indictment that charged him with Felon in Possession of a Firearm.More »
Federal Jury Convicts Last of 26-member Drug Ring Trafficking in Twin Ports's Area
August 17, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – MINNEAPOLIS—Late yesterday in federal court, a jury found a 43-year-old man from Detroit, Michigan, guilty of conspiring to distribute controlled substances, including oxycodone, oxymorphone, hydromorphone, and heroin in the Twin Ports' area of Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin.More »
Federal Jury Finds Career Criminal Guilty of Possessing .38-caliber Revolver
August 16, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Late yesterday in federal court, a trial jury found a 24-year-old career criminal guilty of possessing a .38-caliber revolver. Lewis Pate, no known address, was convicted on one count of possession of a firearm by a career criminal..More »
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Possession of Unregistered Firearm
August 15, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm and Possession of Unregistered Firearm was sentenced on August 15, 2012, by United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange.More »
St. Cloud Career Criminal Pleads Guilty to Possessing .22-caliber Rifle
August 15, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 24-year-old career criminal from St. Cloud pleaded guilty to possessing a .22-caliber rifle. Shawn Allen Roering pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
ATF National Response Team Activated to Motel Fire in Steele, ND
August 14, 2012
St. Paul, Minn. – The National Response Team (NRT) of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), along with ATF special agents from the St. Paul Field Division, at the request of the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI), have entered the investigation into a fire at the Lone Steer Motel, Highway 31, Steele, N.D.More »
Career Criminal Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Nine-Millimeter Pistol
August 10, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court, a 44-year-old career criminal pleaded guilty to possessing a nine-millimeter pistol. Michael Dennis Stanke, of Lino Lakes, specifically pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Seven People Indicted for Possession of Cocaine with Intent to Distribute
August 9, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal indictment unsealed yesterday charged seven individuals with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine and crack cocaine.More »
Operation Eagle Eye: Thirteen Individuals Indicted for Drug Trafficking in Jackson and Shannon County
August 9, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that 13 individuals have been indicted by a federal grand jury for drug conspiracy and distribution offenses alleged to have occurred in Jackson County and Shannon County at various times October 2008 through July 2012.More »
Colorado Man Sentenced on Firearm Charge
August 9, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Colorado man charged with Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced on August 1, 2012, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. David McKeehan, age 48, was sentenced to 115 months' imprisonment and 3 years' supervised release, and was ordered to pay $100 to the Victim Assistance Fund.More »
Madison Man Sentenced to Ten Years for Illegal Possession of Gun
August 8, 2012
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Gerald Hopewell, 37, of Madison, Wis., was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge William Conley to 120 months in prison for being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
ATF Announces $5,000 Reward for Gun Theft
August 6, 2012
ST. PAUL, Minn – Special Agent in Charge Bernard J. Zapor of the St. Paul Field Division, ATF, today announced that ATF is offering a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the persons responsible for the firearms theft that occurred at Gander Mountain, 10470 Hudson Road, Woodbury, Minn.More »
Owner Pleads Guilty to Lodi Pizza Restaurant Arson
August 2, 2012
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Thomas L. Matje, 46, of Deforest, Wisconsin pleaded guilty today in U.S. District Court in Madison to arson for the December 27, 2011 fire that destroyed Fat Boys Pizza in Lodi, Wisconsin.More »
Minneapolis Man Sentenced to 17 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiring to Commit Bank Fraud and Identity Theft
August 2, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 39-year-old Minneapolis man was sentenced to 204 months in federal prison for using stolen credit cards, including one belonging to a local FBI agent, to obtain cash and make purchases.More »
Colorado Man Sentenced for Possession of an Unregistered Firearm
August 2, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Colorado man charged with Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced on August 1, 2012, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken. David McKeehan, age 48, was sentenced to 115 months' imprisonment, 3 years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay $100 to the Victim Assistance Fund.More »
Anoka Man Pleads Guilty to Being a Career Criminal in Possession of a Firearm
August 2, 2012
Madison, Wis. – A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
August 1, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court, a 26-year-old Anoka felon pleaded guilty to possessing a .40-caliber, semi-automatic pistol and a 12-gauge shotgun.More »
Rosebud Man Sentenced for Felon in Possession of Firearm Charge
July 31, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Rosebud, South Dakota, man charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on July 30, 2012, by United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange.More »
Fifteen-Year Sentence for Possession of Firearm & Ammunition by a Convicted Felon
July 30, 2012
BISMARCK – U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on July 30, 2012, Arthur D. Smith, 30, of Minot, N.D., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland on a charge of possession of firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. Smith pleaded guilty to the charge on April 24, 2012.More »
Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of Roseville Quiznos Sandwich Shop
July 27, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 25-year-old man pleaded guilty to the New Year's Eve armed robbery of a Quiznos sandwich shop in Roseville. Michael Scott Luedtke, no known address, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act, and one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.More »
Major Narcotics Investigation Capstones with Arrests & Drug Seizures
July 27, 2012
The Dakota County Drug Task Force concluded an 11 month narcotics investigation, code named "Operation Huckleberry."More »
Federal Complaint Filed Against Two Escapees
July 26, 2012
Madison, Wis. – ohn W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that a one-count criminal complaint was filed today in U.S. District Court in Madison against James Newman, 28, and James Misleveck, 18, escapees from the Black River Falls Correctional Center.More »
Sparta Arsonist Sentenced to Five Years in Prison
July 25, 2012
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Bradford White, 38, of Sparta, Wis., was sentenced on July 20 by U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb to five years in prison without parole for arson. White pleaded guilty to this charge on May 22, 2012.More »
St. Paul Felon Indicted for Possessing .38-caliber Pistol, Ammunition
July 25, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Recently in federal court, a 31-year-old St. Paul felon was indicted for possessing a .38-caliber, semi-automatic pistol. On July 16, 2012, Jose Antonio Caban was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Yesterday, Caban was arrested and made his initial appearance in federal court.More »
Three Indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Controlled Substances
July 24, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal indictment unsealed earlier today charges three Twin Cities' residents with conspiring to distribute heroin, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, cocaine, and other controlled substances.More »
Murder Charges Added in Native Mob Case
July 23, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal superseding indictment filed late last week in the Native Mob case charges a previously named defendant with murder. Shawn Michael Martinez, also known as Tinez, is now charged with one count of murder resulting from the use and carrying of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, one count of murder in aid of racketeering, one count of retaliation against a witness by murder, and one count of witness tampering by murder.More »
Lodi Man Sentenced to Twelve Years for Armed Pharmacy Robberies
July 23, 2012
>Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Anthony Carriola, 28, Lodi, Wis., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 12 years in prison, followed by a five-year term of supervised release, for committing two armed robberies of pharmacies and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of one of them.More »
Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Carjacking a Taxi
July 23, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Late last week in federal court, a 45-year-old man was sentenced for carjacking an Airport Taxi taxicab on January 29, 2011.More »
Four Women Indicted for Conspiring to Distribute Controlled Substances in the Twin Ports
July 20, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal indictment unsealed late yesterday charges four women with conspiring to distribute controlled substances, including oxycodone, oxymorphone, and heroin, in the in the Twin Ports' area of Duluth, Minnesota, and Superior, Wisconsin.More »
Dane County Felon Sentenced for Posession of Firearms
July 17, 2012
Madison, Wis. - John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Joshua Allen Schaaf, 26, Mazomanie, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to six and one-half years in prison, without parole, for the possession of firearms by a felon.More »
Mondovi Man Sentenced to Over 15 Years in Prison for Possession of Firearms by a Felon
July 17, 2012
Madison, Wis.– John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that William Ernest Ziemer, 48, Mondovi, Wisconsin, was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to just over 15 years and 8 months in prisonMore »
Big Lake Man Sentenced for Possessing Two Nine Millimeter Pistols
July 17, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court, a 31-year-old felon was sentenced for possessing two nine-millimeter pistols.More »
Rosebud Man Pleads Guilty to Drug User in Possession of Firearm
July 13, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that David Kills In Water, age 27, of Rosebud, South Dakota, appeared before United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange on July 12, 2012, and pled guilty to an Indictment that charged him with Drug User in Possession of a Firearm.More »
Grand Jury Returns Indictments
July 12, 2012
Madison, Wisconsin – A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Three Minneapolis Men Federally Indicted for Armed Robbery of a St Paul Pharmacy
July 12, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, three Minneapolis men were indicted for the April 3, 2012, armed robbery of the West 7th Pharmacy in St. Paul.More »
Career Criminal Indicted for Possessing a Sawed-off Shotgun
July 12, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 55-year-old career criminal was indicted for possessing a 20-gauge sawed-off shotgun.More »
Career Criminal Indicted Federally for Possessing a .45 Caliber Pistol
July 12, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 42-year-old career criminal was indicted for possessing a .45-caliber, semi-automatic pistol.More »
Colton Man Sentenced in Conspiracy to Destroy Evidence
July 2, 2012
US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Colton, South Dakota, man charged with conspiracy to destroy evidence was sentenced on July 2, 2012, by Chief US District Judge Karen E. Schreier. Robert Butts, age 46, was sentenced to 18 months in custody concurrent with the sentence he is currently serving in Iowa, to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.More »
Bismarck Man Sentenced for Possession of Firearm and Ammunition by Convicted Felon
July 2, 2012
ST. PAUL (Minn.) — U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on June 29, 2012, Adam J. Winarske, 26, of Bismarck, N.D., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland on a charge of possession of firearm and ammunition by convicted felon. Winarske pleaded guilty to the charge on March 13, 2012.More »
Moffitt Couple Sentenced for Possession of Firearms and Ammunition by Convicted Felon
July 2, 2012
ST. PAUL (Minn.) — First Assistant U.S. Attorney Lynn Jordheim announced that on June 29, 2012, Arthur L. Funk, 39, and Dorothy L. Oster, 47, both of Moffit, N.D., were sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland on charges of possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon. Funk pleaded guilty to the charge on January 20, 2012. Oster pleaded guilty to the charge on March 16, 2012.More »
ATF Offers $10,000 Rewards In Two Seperate Homicides
June 29, 2012
ST. PAUL (Minn.) — Special Agent in Charge Bernard J. Zapor of the St. Paul Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Timothy Dolan, Minneapolis Police Department, today announced it is offering individual rewards of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and convictions of those responsible for two homicides involving young children in Minneapolis.More »
Belcourt Man Sentenced for Possession of Stolen Firearms
June 26, 2012
Minot, N.D. — U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on June 25, 2012, Terry J. Gourneau Jr., 21 of Belcourt, N.D., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland on a charge of possession of stolen firearms. Gourneau pleaded guilty to the charge on March 20, 2012.More »
Kyle Man Sentenced on Firearm Charge Angel Vasquez
June 26, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Kyle man charged with Possession of an Unregistered Firearm was sentenced on June 18, 2012, by U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken.More »
Red Lake Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing with Intent to Distribute Marijuana, Possession of a Firearm
June 21, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 49–year–old Red Lake man pleaded guilty to possessing with intent to distribute more than 2.5 kilograms of marijuana as well as possessing a firearm in support of drug trafficking. Keith Brian Donnell pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug–trafficking offense and one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana. Donnell, who was indicted on November 22, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis.More »
St. Paul Career Criminal Indicted for Possessing Pistol
June 19, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 36–year–old St. Paul felon was indicated for allegedly possessing a .40–caliber pistol. Wendell Terrell Brown was specifically charged with one count of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm.More »
Minneapolis Felon Indicted for Possessing a .40–Caliber Pistol
June 19, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 50–year–old Minneapolis felon was indicted for possessing a .40–caliber pistol. Ronnie James Woods was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm, one count of possession with intent to distribute crack cocaine, and one count of carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug–trafficking offense.More »
Fort Atkinson Man Sentenced to 15 Months for Illegal Possession of Firearms
June 19, 2012
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Christopher L. Muckleroy, 27, Fort Atkinson, Wis., was sentenced today to 15 months in federal prison for being a felon in possession of firearms. U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb ordered that this 15—month sentence be served concurrently to the state sentence Muckleroy is presently serving, which runs until August 2012.More »
Felon Indicted for Possessing Firearms, Ammunition
June 15, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Recently in federal court, a 30–year–old felon was indicted for possessing a nine–millimeter pistol and a .22–caliber rifle. On June 5, 2012, Richard Handsome Carter was charged with three counts of being a felon in possession. Carter was apprehended yesterday and had his initial appearance earlier today.More »
Career Criminal Indicted for Possessing a Nine–Millimeter Pistol
June 12, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 44–year–old career criminal was indicted for possessing a nine–millimeter pistol. Michael Dennis Stanke, of Lino Lakes, was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Man Pleads Guilty to the Armed Robbery of a Bemidji Convenience Store
June 11, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in Duluth, a 21–year–old man pleaded guilty to committing the December 30, 2011, armed robbery of Newby’s Market in Bemidji. Jason Lee King, no known address, pleaded guilty to one count of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act, and one count of using, carrying, and brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. King, who was indicted on April 3, 2012, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle.More »
Anoka Man Indicted for being a Career Criminal in Possession of a Firearm
June 11, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — A federal indictment unsealed late yesterday charges a 26–year–old Anoka felon with possessing a .40–caliber, semi–automatic pistol and a 12–gauge shotgun. The indictment charges Jesse Ray Bennett with one count of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm. The indictment, which was filed on June 5, 2012, was unsealed following Bennett’s initial appearance in federal court.More »
Redby Woman Sentenced for Being an Accessory to Violent Red Lake Crime
May 31, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Yesterday in federal court in Duluth, a 22–year–old Redby woman was sentenced for attempting to hide a suspect from federal agents. United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Jerilee Jane Head to 24 months in prison on one count of being an accessory after the fact. Head was indicted on March 8, 2011, and was convicted on January 24, 2012. She was ordered to remain in custody.More »
St. Paul felon indicted for possessing a .357-revolver
May 30, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal indictment unsealed yesterday charges a 28-year-old St. Paul felon with possessing a .357-caliber revolver. The indictment charges Richard Alonzo Woods with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment, which was filed on May 15, 2012, was unsealed following Woods' initial appearance in federal court.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
May 30, 2012
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
St. Paul Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing a .22–Caliber Gun
May 29, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a St. Paul felon pleaded guilty to possessing a .22–caliber handgun while on the campus of Metropolitan State University. Demonte Johntrell Latimore, age 24, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Latimore, who was indicted on April 3, 2012, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery.More »
Minneapolis Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute Cocaine
May 22, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 36-year-old Minneapolis man was sentenced for conspiring to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine. United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Jose Guillen to 60 months in prison on one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Guillen was indicted on November 8, 2011, and pleaded guilty on January 26, 2012. More »
St. Paul Felon Indicted for Possessing a 12-Gauge Shotgun
May 22, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 24-year-old felon from St. Paul was indicted for possessing an unregistered 12-gauge shotgun. The indictment charges Michael Romeo Geraci with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession of an unregistered firearm. More »
Minneapolis Man Pleads Guilty to Lying and Buying Firearms
May 22, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court, a 31-year-old Minneapolis man pleaded guilty to providing false information on applications required for purchasing firearms. Ryan Thomas Sandoval pleaded guilty to two counts of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. Sandoval, who was indicted on April 17, 2012, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery. More »
Dodge Man Sentenced on Firearms Charge
May 21, 2012
May 21, 2012, James A. Brenner, 48, of Dodge, N.D., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland on a charge of possession of firearms by a convicted felon. Brenner pleaded guilty to the charge on February 15, 2012. More »
Minnesota Explosives Detection Canine Helps Chicago Prepare for NATO Summit
May 18, 2012
ST. PAUL — Leaders from around the world gather in Chicago this weekend for the North Atlantic Treaty Organization 2012 Summit. Law enforcement throughout Chicago, including the Chicago Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), are ramping up security in preparation for the historic event hosted by President Barack Obama, May 20–21.More »
Lodi Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Pharmacy Robberies
May 17, 2012
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Anthony Carriola, 28, Lodi, Wis., pleaded guilty today to committing two armed robberies of pharmacies and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of one of them.More »
Career Criminal Indicted for Armed Robbery of Roseville Quiznos Sandwich Shop
May 16, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a career criminal was indicted in connection with the New Year’s Eve armed robbery of a Quiznos sandwich shop in Roseville. Michael Scott Luedtke, age 25, no known address, was charged with one count of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act; one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence; one count of possession of an unregistered sawed-off shotgun; and one count of possession of a firearm by an armed career criminal. The indictment alleges that on December 31, 2011, Luedtke attempted to rob the store by threatening an employee with a sawed-off shotgun.More »
St. Cloud Man Indicted for Possessing a .32-Caliber Pistol
May 16, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 33-year-old St. Cloud man was indicted with allegedly possessing a .32-caliber pistol. Bryant Duane Griffin was charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.More »
Redby Man Sentenced for Possessing a Sstolen 12-Gauge Shotgun
May 16, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 19-year-old Redby man was sentenced for possessing a stolen 12-gauge shotgun. United States District Court Chief Judge Michael J. Davis sentenced Damien Charles Jones to 30 months in prison on one count of possession of a stolen firearm. Jones was indicted on September 12, 2011, and pleaded guilty on December 7, 2011.More »
Falcon Heights Felon Sentenced for Using a Firearm to Rob a Dunn Bros Coffee Shop
May 15, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 39–year–old Falcon Heights man was sentenced for using a firearm to commit an armed robbery of a Dunn Bros coffee shop in the Uptown neighborhood of Minneapolis. United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Carlos Maurice Harris to 300 months in prison on one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.More »
Medina Man Sentenced to 14 Years for Drug and Gun Crimes
May 11, 2012
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Juan M. Flores-Olague, 56, Medina, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 14 years in prison, for distributing cocaine and for possessing firearms in furtherance of his drug distribution. Flores-Olague pleaded guilty to these charges on February 27, 2012. More »
ATF Agents Receive Prestigious Top Cop Award
May 11, 2012
ST. PAUL, Minn. – Five Special Agents from the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Fargo Field Office will be recognized for their outstanding work by the National Association of Police Organizations at their 19th Annual Top Cops Awards, May 12, at the Mayflower Hotel in Washington, D.C. More »
Rosebud Man Pleads Guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm
May 10, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Wayne Besherse, age 48, of Rosebud, appeared before United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange on May 9, 2012, and pled guilty to Felon in Possession of a Firearm. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years' imprisonment, a $250,000 fine, or both.More »
Minneapolis felon pleads guilty to possessing a .40-caliber handgun
May 10, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 37-year-old felon pleaded guilty to possessing a .40-caliber handgun. Lamarco Trease Bell, of Minneapolis, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Bell, who was indicted on December 20, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle.More »
Illinois Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Ammunition
May 9, 2012
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Gerald McClellan, 23, Freeport, Ill., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to two years in prison, for unlawfully possessing ammunition after being convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. McClellan pleaded guilty to this charge on March 7, 2012.More »
Career Criminal Indicted for Possessing .38-Caliber Revolver
May 9, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 24-year-old career criminal was indicted for allegedly possessing a .38-caliber revolver. Lewis Pate, no known address, was specifically charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a career criminal.More »
Brown County Resident Sentenced to 20 Years for Cocaine Dealing and International Gun and Marijuana Trafficking
May 7, 2012
United States Attorney James L. Santelle announced today that on May 1, 2012, United States District Judge William Griesbach sentenced Brown County resident Jeremiah S. Berg (age: 33) to twenty years in prison for conspiring to trade firearms for high grade Canadian marijuana and for dealing cocaine.More »
Arkdale Man Sentenced for Gun Crime
May 4, 2012
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Ricardo Cantu, 50, Arkdale, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 12 months and one day for possession of a firearm by a felon. Cantu pleaded guilty to this charge on February 28, 2012.More »
Sparta Police Department Execute Search Warrant on East Ave at Wolcott St
May 4, 2012
Rhinelander Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison For Felon in Possession
May 1, 2012
Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jay W. Lloyd, 27, Rhinelander, Wis., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 15 years in prison, without the possibility of parole, for unlawfully possessing firearms as a convicted felon. Lloyd pleaded guilty to this charge on March 7, 2012.More »
Nine Defendants Indicted for Contraband Cigarette Trafficking and Possession and Sale of Counterfeit Cigarette Tax Stamps
April 27, 2012
James L. Santelle, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced today that as the result of a year long investigation by the U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, a federal grand jury has indicted 9 defendants for contraband cigarette trafficking in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 371 and 2342(a) as well as possession and sale of counterfeit cigarette tax stamps in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 2315.More »
Austin Felon Indicted for Possessing Firearms
April 27, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — A federal indictment unsealed earlier this week charges a 31–year–old felon from Austin with possessing several firearms and ammunition. The indictment, which was filed on April 17, 2012, specifically charges Samuel James Johnson with four counts of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm and one count of a being an armed career criminal in possession of ammunition. The indictment was unsealed on April 25, 2012, following Johnson’s initial appearance in federal court.More »
Mendota Heights Man Indicted for Distributing Methamphetamine
April 27, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — A recently filed federal indictment charges a 42–year–old Mendota Heights man with allegedly distributing more than 110 grams of methamphetamine. On April 16, 2012, Joseph Benjamin Thomas was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, two counts of distribution of five or more grams of methamphetamine, and one count of distribution of 50 or more grams of methamphetamine. On April 25, 2012, Thomas had his initial appearance in federal court.More »
Minneapolis Man Indicted for Lying and Buying Firearms
April 25, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — A federal indictment unsealed yesterday charges a 31–year–old Minneapolis man with providing false information on applications required for purchasing firearms. The indictment, which was filed on April 17, 2012, charges Ryan Thomas Sandoval with seven counts of making a false statement during the purchase of a firearm. The indictment was unsealed following Sandoval’s initial appearance in federal court.More »
Felon in Possession of a Firearm Sentenced
April 25, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Wood, South Dakota, man charged with Felon in Possession of a Firearm was sentenced on April 23, 2012, by United States District Judge Roberto A. Lange. Paul Joseph, age 60, was sentenced to 12 months’ probation, a $250 fine, and a $100 special assessment to the Victim Assistance Fund.More »
Plymouth Felon Sentenced for Possessing Nine–Millimeter Pistol
April 25, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 31–year–old Plymouth man was sentenced for being a felon in possession of a nine–millimeter pistol. United States District Court Judge Patrick J. Schiltz sentenced Nieem Kalif Jones to 84 months in prison on one count of possession of a firearm by a felon. Jones was indicted on March 16, 2011, and pleaded guilty on August 2, 2011.More »
New Town Man Sentenced for Burglary & Gun Charges
April 23, 2012
BISMARCK – U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced on April 20, 2012, Troy K. Yazzie Jr., 21, of New Town, N.D., was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland on charges of burglary and brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. Yazzie pleaded guilty to the charges on August 16, 2010.More »
Williston Man Sentenced on Gun Charge
April 20, 2012
BISMARCK – U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on April 19, 2012, Antonio A. Vela, 32, of Williston, N.D., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland on a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Vela pleaded guilty to the charge on January 25, 2012.More »
Redby Felon Indicted for Possessing a 12-Gauge Shotgun
April 18, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – A federal indictment recently unsealed charges a 27-year-old Redby man with being a felon in possession of a 12-gauge, sawed-off shotgun. The indictment, which was filed on April 3, 2012, charges Timothy Clarence Stately with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and one count of possession of an unregistered sawed-off shotgun. The indictment was unsealed on April 12, 2012, following Stately’s initial appearance in federal court.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
April 18, 2012
Madison, Wisconsin – A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Sioux Falls Man Sentenced for Firearms Offense
April 16, 2012
US Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that a Sioux Falls man charged with a firearms offense was sentenced on April 13, 2012, by Chief US District Judge Karen E. Schreier. Marckus Ray Drake, age 31, was sentenced to 75 months in custody (concurrent with a state sentence he is currently serving), to be followed by 3 years of supervised release.More »
St. Paul Man Indicted for Possessing Cocaine, Crack cocaine, and Two Nine–Millimeter Pistols
April 10, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 34–year–old felon from St. Paul was charged with possessing cocaine, crack cocaine and two nine–millimeter pistols. The indictment specifically charges Ronald Louis Trice with one count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of being a felon in possession of firearms, and one count of using, carrying, and possessing a firearm during and in relation to a drug–trafficking crime.More »
Colorado Man Guilty of Possessing Unregistered Firearms
April 10, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that David McKeehan, age 48, of Thornton, Colorado, appeared before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on April 5, 2012, and pleaded guilty to a charge of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years’ imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.More »
Bemidji Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Stolen .357–Revolver
April 2, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 27–year–old Bemidji man pleaded guilty to possessing a stolen .357–caliber revolver. Edward McCabe Robinson specifically pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a stolen firearm. Prior to today’s plea hearing, Robinson was charged via an Information. He entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank. In his plea agreement, Robinson admitted that on August 28, 2011, he possessed the gun when he was arrested at a Bemidji apartment complex for violation of state supervised release.More »
Fridley Man Pleads Guilty to Armed Robbery of Columbia Heights Convenience Store
March 30, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 35–year–old Fridley man pleaded guilty to using a .38–caliber pistol on March 11, 2011 to rob the Totem Superette in Columbia Heights. Jimmy Earl Matthews pleaded guilty to one count of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Matthews, who was indicted on May 11, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen.More »
Grand Marsh Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Gun Crimes
March 29, 2012
>Madison, Wis. – John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Randy Meherg, 45, of Grand Marsh, Wis., was sentenced today in U.S. District Court in Madison to 15 years in federal prison, without parole. Meherg pleaded guilty to possessing a handgun and ammunition after previously having been convicted of a felony.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
March 28, 2012
>Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Inver Grove Heights Man Sentenced for Armed Robbery of White Bear Lake and Maplewood Convenience Stores
March 23, 2012
>MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 21–year–old Inver Grove Heights man was sentenced in connection with the June 14, 2011, armed robberies of SuperAmerica stores in Maplewood and White Bear Lake. United States District Court Judge Donovan W. Frank sentenced Joseph Laurence Forliti to 108 months in prison on two counts of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act. Forliti was indicted on August 8, 2011, and pleaded guilty on November 9, 2011.More »
Bemidji Armed Career Criminal Indicted for Possessing a .357–Revolver
March 22, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Yesterday in federal court, a 27–year–old armed career criminal from Bemidji was charged in a superseding indictment for possessing a .357–caliber revolver. The indictment charges Edward McCabe Robinson with one count of being an armed career criminal in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on August 28, 2011, Robinson possessed the gun.More »
Belcourt Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Stolen Firearms
March 20, 2012
BISMARCK — U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on March 20, 2012, Terry J. Gourneau Jr., 21 of Belcourt, N.D., pleaded guilty in U.S. District Court to a charge of possession of stolen firearms.More »
Bismarck Man Sentenced for Burglary in Belcourt
March 19, 2012
BISMARCK — U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on March 19, 2012, Brandin Decoteau, 23, of Bismarck, N.D., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Daniel L. Hovland on charges of burglary and possession of a stolen firearm. Decoteau pleaded guilty to the charges on Dec. 19, 2011.More »
Fire Investigators Determine Cause of Abby Theatre Fatal Fire
March 9, 2012
ABBOTSFORD, Wis. — The National Response Team (NRT) from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), along with agents from the ATF St. Paul Field Division, and State of Wisconsin–Department of Justice–Division of Criminal Investigation–State Fire Marshal’s Office have completed the investigation into the cause of the Sunday’s fire at the Abby Theatre, 216 N. 1st St., Abbotsford, Wis. One firefighter was killed and four injured during fire suppression efforts.More »
Kyle Man Guilty of Possessing Unregistered Firearm
March 8, 2012
United States Attorney Brendan V. Johnson announced that Angel Vasquez, age 24, of Kyle, appeared before U.S. District Judge Jeffrey L. Viken on March 2, 2012, and pled guilty to a charge of Possession of an Unregistered Firearm. The maximum penalty upon conviction is 10 years’ imprisonment and/or a $250,000 fine.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
March 7, 2012
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Felon Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Armed Robbery of a White Bear Lake Bar
March 7, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court in the District of Minnesota, a habitual offender was sentenced in connection with the November 27, 2010, armed robbery of a White Bear Lake bar. United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen sentenced Tyice Alexander Phillips, age 35, of St. Paul, to 300 months in federal prison on one count of discharging a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Phillips was charged on March 21, 2011, and pleaded guilty on May 24, 2011. Because of Phillips’ extensive and violent criminal record, he was subject to the federal armed career criminal statute in this case. That statute mandates a minimum prison sentence of 15 years.More »
Minneapolis Felon Indicted for Possessing .40-Caliber Pistol
March 7, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Recently in federal court, a 30-year-old felon from Minneapolis was indicted for allegedly possessing a .40-caliber pistol. On March 5, 2012, Aaron Lee Gant was specifically charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. The indictment alleges that on December 31, 2011, Gant possessed the gun.More »
ATF National Response Team Activated to Local Theater in Abbotsford, WI
March 6, 2012
ABBOTSFORD, Wis. – The National Response Team (NRT) of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) along with ATF special agents from the St. Paul Field Division have been activated by request from the Abbotsford Fire Department and the State of Wisconsin-Department of Justice-Division of Criminal Investigation-State Fire Marshal’s Office to investigate a fire at the Abby Theatre. The fire which occurred around noon on Sunday killed one firefighter and injured four others from the Colby and Abbotsford Fire Departments during the suppression efforts. The team of two dozen agents and specialists arrived yesterday and started the scene investigation this morning.More »
Mauston Man Receives 15–Year Sentence for Possession of a Sawed–Off Shotgun
March 6, 2012
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Jason A. Price, 33, Mauston, Wis., was sentenced today by Chief U.S. District Judge William M. Conley to 180 months (15 years) in prison for possessing a firearm, specifically, a sawed–off shotgun.More »
Minneapolis Man Sentenced for Smuggling AK-47 Parts to Paraguay
March 6, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court in St. Paul, a 30-year-old Minneapolis man was sentenced for smuggling AK-47 components to Paraguay. United States District Court Judge Richard H. Kyle sentenced Fabian Patricio Lojano-Lojano to 24 months in prison on one count of smuggling goods from the U.S. Lojano-Lojano was charged on October 12, 2011, and pleaded guilty on October 27, 2011.More »
Federal Jury Convicts Minneapolis Man for Conspiring to Commit Bank Fraud, Identity Theft
February 24, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a jury found a 39-year-old Minneapolis man guilty for using stolen credit cards to obtain cash and make purchases. Milton Carlton Rucker, Jr., was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit bank fraud, one count of being a felon in possession of a stolen FBI agent’s firearm, and one count of aggravated identity theft. Rucker was charged in a superseding indictment on October 17, 2011.More »
Minneapolis Man Sentenced for Robbing the Erte’ Restaurant
February 22, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 42–year–old Minneapolis man was sentenced for committing the armed robbery of a Minneapolis restaurant on February 10, 2011. United States District Court Judge David S. Doty sentenced Charles Vincent Fletcher to195 months in federal prison on one count of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act, and one count of being a felon in possession of firearm. Fletcher was indicted on June 15, 2011, and pleaded guilty on October 13, 2011.More »
Big Lake Man Pleads Guilty to Possessing Two Nine–Millimeter Pistols
February 21, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 31–year–old felon pleaded guilty to possessing two nine–millimeter pistols. Bryan Wallace Burford, of Big Lake, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Burford, who was indicted on December 20, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge David S. Doty.More »
Madison Man Sentenced to 90 Months for Drug and Gun Crimes
February 21, 2012
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Ryan K. Cook, 20, Madison, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. Chief District Judge William M. Conley to 90 months in prison for distribution of crack cocaine and possession of a firearm by a felon. Cook pleaded guilty to these charges on December 6, 2011.More »
Minneapolis Man Sentenced for Possessing with Intent to Distribute 500 or More Grams of Cocaine
February 17, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 43–year–old Minneapolis man was sentenced for possessing with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine. United States District Court Judge Ann D. Montgomery sentenced Derek Wayne Brown to 96 months in prison on one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 or more grams of cocaine. Brown was indicted along with eight co–defendants on November 1, 2010, and pleaded guilty on March 16, 2011.More »
Denmark, Wisconsin Man Indicted in Federal Court with Arson, Mail Fraud and Murder for Hire
February 17, 2012
United States Attorney James L. Santelle of the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that a federal grand jury recently returned a four–count indictment against Mathew L. Lemberger (age: 32) of Denmark, Wisconsin charging him with arson of a building used in interstate commerce (count one), mail fraud (count two), arson in connection with a federal felony (count three), and murder for hire (count four).More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
February 15, 2012
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Hugo Man Sentenced for the Armed Robbery of Falcon Heights Liquor Store
February 15, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Late yesterday in federal court in St. Paul, a 19–year–old Hugo man was sentenced in connection with the February 23, 2011, armed robbery of J’s Liquors in Falcon Heights. United States District Court Judge Paul A. Magnuson sentenced Cody Joseph Diaz to 120 months in prison on one count of use of a firearm during a crime of violence, specifically during a Hobbs Act robbery. Diaz was indicted on May 11, 2011, and pleaded guilty on August 2, 2011.More »
Madison Man Sentenced for Illegal Possession of Firearm
February 14, 2012
Madison, Wis. — John W. Vaudreuil, United States Attorney for the Western District of Wisconsin, announced that Travis Talley, 28, Madison, Wis., was sentenced today by U.S. District Judge Barbara B. Crabb to 36 months in prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition after having been previously convicted of a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence. Talley pleaded guilty to this offense on December 6, 2011.More »
Federal Jury Convicts Felon from Aurora, Minnesota, for Possessing a 20–Gauge Shotgun
February 13, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Last week in federal court, a jury found a 33–year–old felon from the northeastern Minnesota community of Aurora guilty of possessing a 20–gauge shotgun. On February 10, 2012, following a three–day trial, the jury convicted John Joseph Douglas of one count of being a career criminal in possession of a firearm. Douglas was indicted on October 4, 2011.More »
Two Redby Men Sentenced in Connection to November Killing
February 8, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Yesterday in federal court in Fergus Falls, two men from the town of Redby were sentenced in connection to the November 3, 2010, killing of one man and the wounding of two others on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced Donald Leigh Clark, Jr., age 23, to 120 months in prison on one count of discharge of a firearm during the commission of a crime of violence, specifically, the shooting of Julian Keith DeMarrias. Clark’s co–defendant, Cruze Anthony White, age 23, was sentenced to 80 months on one count of voluntary manslaughter, for aiding and abetting Clark. The men were indicted on January 19, 2011, and pleaded guilty on November 17, 2011.More »
Northome Felon Sentenced for Possessing Ten Firearms
February 7, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Yesterday in federal court in Fergus Falls, a felon from the small, northern Minnesota town of Northome was sentenced for possessing ten firearms. United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim sentenced Jeffrey William Vesey, age 39, to 52 months inprison on one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Vesey was indicted on May 11, 2011, and pleaded guilty on September 13, 2011.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
January 26, 2012
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Federal Grand Jury Returns Indictments
January 25, 2012
Madison, Wisconsin — A federal grand jury in the Western District of Wisconsin, sitting in Madison, returned the following indictments today. You are advised that a charge is merely an accusation and that a defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty.More »
Moorhead Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing a .410–Gauge Shotgun
January 25, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court, a 27–year–old felon from Moorhead pleaded guilty to possessing a .410–gauge shotgun. Justin James Rodriguez pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Rodriguez, who was indicted on June 21, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge John R. Tunheim.More »
Sweeping Racketeering Indictment Charges Alleged Members of the Native Mob
January 25, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — A federal indictment unsealed in part late yesterday charges 24 alleged members of the Native Mob gang with conspiracy to participate in racketeering activity and other crimes. The Native Mob is a regional criminal gang that originated in Minneapolis in the early 1990s. Members routinely engage in drug trafficking, assault, robbery, and murder. Membership is estimated at 200, with new members, including juveniles, regularly recruited from communities with large, young, male, Native American populations. Association with the gang is often signified by wearing red and black clothing or sporting gang–related tattoos.More »
Felon Pleads Guilty to Possessing a Firearm
January 25, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Recently in federal court, a 36–year–old felon pleaded guilty to possessing a .25–caliber pistol. On January 23, 2012, Calvin Bankhead, no known address, pleaded guilty to one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. Bankhead, who was indicted on September 12, 2011, entered his plea before United States District Court Judge David S. Doty.More »
Federal Jury Convicts Redby Woman for Being an Accessory to Violent Red Lake Crime
January 24, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in Duluth, a jury found a 22–year–old Redby woman guilty of attempting to hide a suspect from federal agents. The jury convicted Jerilee Jane Head on one count of being an accessory after the fact. Head was indicted on March 8, 2011.More »
Minneapolis Man Indicted for Robbing Bank, Four Stores
January 11, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 29–year–old Minneapolis man was indicted in connection with a series of armed robberies at various businesses, including a US Bank. Donte McKinley Hollister was charged with one count of armed bank robbery and four counts of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act.More »
Blaine Man Indicted in Connection with the Armed Robbery of a Carver County Convenience Store
January 11, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS — Earlier today in federal court in St. Paul, a 27–year–old Blaine man was indicted in connection with the December 3, 2011, armed robbery of a convenience store in Mayer, Minnesota. Demetrius Charles Edward Derden was charged with one count of interference with commerce by robbery, pursuant to the Hobbs Act.More »
Faribault Man is Last Defendant Sentenced in Connection with Cocaine, Methamphetamine Distribution Ring
January 6, 2012
MINNEAPOLIS – Earlier today in federal court, a 33-year-Fairbault man was sentenced in connection with a Mexican-based drug cartel that distributed methamphetamine and cocaine throughout Minnesota from 2005 through 2009. United States District Court Judge Joan N. Ericksen sentenced Oscar Damian Limon to three years of probation on one count of conspiracy to distribute cocaine. Limon, who was indicted along with 26 co-defendants on April 21, 2009, pleaded guilty on September 11, 2009.More »
Fort Totten Man Sentenced on Federal Firearm Charge
January 4, 2012
FARGO — U.S. Attorney Timothy Q. Purdon announced that on Jan. 4, 2012, Shobie H. Shaw of Fort Totten, N.D., was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Ralph R. Erickson on a charge of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.More »