Thursday, February 29, 2024
Wednesday, February 28, 2024
Tuesday, February 27, 2024
PRESS RELEASE
Mexican National Sentenced to 25 Years for Leading Meth, Heroin Conspiracy
Friday, February 23, 2024
KC Man Distributed 250 Pounds of Meth
KANSAS CITY, Mo. – A Kansas City, Mo., man has been sentenced in federal court for leading a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine.
Panfilo Acuna, Jr., 29, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Stephen R. Bough on Thursday, Feb. 22, to 25 years in federal prison without parole. The court also ordered Acuna to forfeit to the government $550,603, which represents the proceeds he received from the drug-trafficking conspiracy.
On Oct. 13, 2022, Acuna pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and heroin, conspiracy to commit money laundering, 42 counts of money laundering, and one count of international money laundering.
Acuna admitted that he was the leader of a drug-trafficking organization that distributed methamphetamine and heroin throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area from 2016 until his arrest in 2020. Acuna was the primary source of methamphetamine and heroin distributed to a dozen co-defendants in this case. Acuna also admitted he distributed approximately 250 pounds of methamphetamine and laundered more than $500,000 in drug-trafficking proceeds.
Acuna received methamphetamine and heroin from sources in California and Mexico. Acuna coordinated shipments of bulk methamphetamine and heroin from California to his associates in the Kansas City metropolitan area. Acuna utilized different methods to transport drugs from California to Kansas City, including drug couriers, parcel carriers, and commercial delivery services where drugs would be hidden in furniture and other consumer items. The drugs would then be distributed to a network of street-level dealers in this area who then sold the drugs to other dealers and addicts.
Acuna conducted 1,046 financial transactions between 2015 and 2020, nearly all of them to individuals in California and Mexico, that were related to his drug trafficking. The aggregate amount of money deposited was $305,109. Other wire transfers were also conducted that totaled $246,494. Additionally, Acuna transferred $20,060 to individuals in Mexico through 22 money transfers as part of the conspiracy. The financial investigation revealed his associates also laundered money through a variety of means.
On Oct. 1, 2020, the FBI and the Jackson County Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at Acuna’s apartment. Investigators recovered 19 firearms, thousands of rounds of ammunition, magazines, drug ledgers, 10 grams of heroin, and nearly three kilograms of methamphetamine.
Acuna is the ninth defendant to be sentenced in this case. Two co-defendants have pleaded guilty and await sentencing.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Matthew Moeder and Megan A. Baker. It was investigated by the FBI and the Jackson County Drug Task Force.
Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at https://www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Monday, February 26, 2024
Sunday, February 25, 2024
Saturday, February 24, 2024
Friday, February 23, 2024
Jury Convicts Jefferson City Man of Armed Bank Robbery
PRESS RELEASE
Jury Convicts Jefferson City Man of Armed Bank Robbery
Friday, February 16, 2024
JEFFRSON CITY, Mo. – A Jefferson City, Mo., man has been convicted in federal court of the armed robbery of a Jefferson City credit union.
Tre Joseph Connor, 29, was found guilty on Thursday, Feb. 15, of one count of bank robbery, one count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence, and one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm.
Evidence introduced during the trial indicated that Connor entered River Region Credit Union, 3608 W. Truman Blvd. in Jefferson City, on the morning of Jan. 19, 2023. Connor, wearing a black ski mask, brandished a Smith & Wesson 9mm semi-automatic pistol and ordered a credit union employee to open a vault. Connor stole approximately $111,700 from the vault, filled a backpack with the cash, and left through a side door.
Investigators used security cameras from various sources to identify Connor, including Walmart security camera footage that depicted Connor’s purchases of clothing and other items used in the robbery.
Under federal law, it is illegal for anyone who has been convicted of a felony to be in possession of any firearm or ammunition. Connor, who has prior felony convictions for dissemination of private sexual images and harassment, was on probation at the time he committed the armed robbery.
Following the presentation of evidence, the jury in the U.S. District Court in Jefferson City, Mo., deliberated for approximately two and a half hours before returning guilty verdicts to U.S. District Judge Roseann A. Ketchmark, ending a trial that began Monday, Feb. 12.
Under federal statutes, Connor is subject to a mandatory minimum sentence of seven years in federal prison without parole, up to a sentence of life in federal prison without parole. The maximum statutory sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes, as the sentencing of the defendant will be determined by the court based on the advisory sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled after the completion of a presentence investigation by the United States Probation Office.
This case is being prosecuted by Supervisory Assistant U.S. Attorney Lauren E. Kummerer and Assistant U.S. Attorney Melissa A. Pierce. It was investigated by the Jefferson City, Mo., Police Department, the FBI, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Boone County, Mo., Sheriff’s Department.
Biden-Harris Administration announces $69,422,000 for Louisiana to Upgrade Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda
USEPA News Release:
Biden-Harris Administration announces $69,422,000 for Louisiana to Upgrade Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda
Unprecedented funding from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is transforming communities across the state
DALLAS, TEXAS (February 22, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $69,422,000 from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for Louisiana to implement drinking water and clean water infrastructure upgrades. The funding is part of the over $50 billion investment in water infrastructure upgrades from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – the largest such investment in American history. Today’s announcement will support essential water infrastructure that protects public health and treasured water bodies across the state. Almost half of this funding will be available as grants or principal forgiveness loans, ensuring funds reach underserved communities most in need of investments in water infrastructure.
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda continues to transform communities for the better with this latest infusion of funds for critical water infrastructure projects,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With $50 billion in total, the largest investment in water infrastructure in our nation’s history, EPA will enable communities across the nation to ensure safer drinking water for their residents and rebuild vital clean water infrastructure to protect public health for decades to come.”
“Through President’s Biden Investing in America agenda, EPA can fund long-overdue water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades in our nation, and prioritize this work in underfunded areas that need it the most,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Since 2022, EPA has given over $100 million to Oklahoma, Louisiana, and New Mexico for water infrastructure needs. This new round of funding will help ensure every community can bring reliable water and wastewater services to every resident.”
Communities across the country are facing water infrastructure challenges. Many cities and towns have aging water infrastructure – old, broken or lead pipes carrying drinking water and wastewater treatment plants in need of major upgrades. Some communities struggle to maintain adequate stormwater infrastructure to effectively manage flood impacts from climate change and others need to upgrade their water treatment to address emerging contaminants like PFAS.
The funding EPA announced for Louisiana is part of a $5.8 billion investment through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), one of EPA’s signature water investment programs. This multi-billion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs to address key challenges, with $2.6 billion going to the Clean Water SRF for wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and $3.2 billion going to the Drinking Water SRF for drinking water infrastructure nationwide. Today’s announcement includes allotments for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law General Supplemental funds and Emerging Contaminant funds for SRF programs for fiscal year 2024. EPA anticipates announcing allocations for billions of dollars in additional resources for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Lead Service Line Replacement fund later this Spring.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in Action in Louisiana
Since 2022, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has injected $301,071,000 into water infrastructure projects across the state protecting public health, preserving water resources, and creating jobs. In August 2023, EPA awarded Louisiana with $2,300,000 to replace approximately 1.5 miles of deteriorated distribution pipe and associated appurtenances in Calcasieu Parish.
In September 2023, EPA awarded Louisiana $6,600,000 to create two new water treatment plants in the Lafayette Parish. Each plant required installation of three water wells each designed to produce approximately 1000 gallon per minute (gpm). In the same month, we awarded Louisiana $3,500,000 to create a proposed project in the St. Tammany Parish that includes the construction of a new water well capable of producing 500 gpm approximately 1,900 feet in depth, installation of two 10,000 gallon hydro pneumatic tanks, and installation of new chlorine gas disinfection equipment.
These investments are unprecedented and transformational. To view some stories about how Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has impacted communities across the country, access the Investing in America’s Water Infrastructure Storymap. To see some additional projects, please view our Quarterly Report.
Background
The Drinking Water State Revolving Funds and the Clean Water State Revolving Funds have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. SRF programs are critically important programs for investing in the nation’s water infrastructure. They are designed to generate significant and sustainable water quality and public health benefits across the country. Their impact is amplified by the growth inherent in a revolving loan structure – payment of principal and interest on loans made are available to address future needs.
For more information, including state-by-state allocation of 2024 funding, and a breakdown of EPA State Revolving Fund funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, please visit the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund website and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund website.
Biden-Harris Administration announces $53,099,000 for Arkansas to Upgrade Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda
USEPA News Release:
Biden-Harris Administration announces $53,099,000 for Arkansas to Upgrade Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure as part of President Biden’s Investing in America agenda
Unprecedented funding from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is transforming communities across the state
DALLAS, TEXAS (February 22, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $53,099,000 from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for Arkansas to implement drinking water and clean water infrastructure upgrades. The funding is part of the over $50 billion investment in water infrastructure upgrades from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – the largest such investment in American history. Today’s announcement will support essential water infrastructure that protects public health and treasured water bodies across the state. Almost half of this funding will be available as grants or principal forgiveness loans, ensuring funds reach underserved communities most in need of investments in water infrastructure.
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda continues to transform communities for the better with this latest infusion of funds for critical water infrastructure projects,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With $50 billion in total, the largest investment in water infrastructure in our nation’s history, EPA will enable communities across the nation to ensure safer drinking water for their residents and rebuild vital clean water infrastructure to protect public health for decades to come.”
“Through President’s Biden Investing in America agenda, EPA can fund long-overdue water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades in our nation and prioritize this work in underfunded areas that need it the most,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Since 2022, EPA has given over $100 million to Oklahoma, Louisiana, and New Mexico for water infrastructure needs. This new round of funding will help ensure every community can bring reliable water and wastewater services to every resident.”
Communities across the country are facing water infrastructure challenges. Many cities and towns have aging water infrastructure – old, broken or lead pipes carrying drinking water and wastewater treatment plants in need of major upgrades. Some communities struggle to maintain adequate stormwater infrastructure to effectively manage flood impacts from climate change and others need to upgrade their water treatment to address emerging contaminants like PFAS.
The funding EPA announced for Arkansas is part of a $5.8 billion investment through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), one of EPA’s signature water investment programs. This multi-billion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs to address key challenges, with $2.6 billion going to the Clean Water SRF for wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and $3.2 billion going to the Drinking Water SRF for drinking water infrastructure nationwide. Today’s announcement includes allotments for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law General Supplemental funds and Emerging Contaminant funds for SRF programs for fiscal year 2024. EPA anticipates announcing allocations for billions of dollars in additional resources for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Lead Service Line Replacement fund later this Spring.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in Action in Arkansas
Since 2022, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has injected $241,400,000 into water infrastructure projects across the state protecting public health, preserving water resources, and creating jobs. Arkansas is one of twelve states participating in the Hypoxia Task Force (HTF) working to reduce the size of a hypoxic zone, an area with reduced oxygen levels, in the Gulf of Mexico. A portion of their Hypoxia Task Force funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, $500,000 will be used to reduce nutrients by constructing two-stage ditch floodplains in the Upper Cache River watershed. The outcome of this project will improve local water quality and downstream water quality in the Gulf of Mexico.
These investments are unprecedented and transformational. To view some stories about how Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has impacted communities across the country, access the Investing in America’s Water Infrastructure Storymap. To see some additional projects, please view our Quarterly Report.
Background
The Drinking Water State Revolving Funds and the Clean Water State Revolving Funds have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. SRF programs are critically important programs for investing in the nation’s water infrastructure. They are designed to generate significant and sustainable water quality and public health benefits across the country. Their impact is amplified by the growth inherent in a revolving loan structure – payment of principal and interest on loans made are available to address future needs.
For more information, including state-by-state allocation of 2024 funding, and a breakdown of EPA State Revolving Fund funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, please visit the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund website and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund website.
Biden-Harris Administration Announces $64,805,000 for Oklahoma to Upgrade Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure as part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda
USEPA News Release:
Biden-Harris Administration Announces $64,805,000 for Oklahoma to Upgrade Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure as part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda
Unprecedented funding from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is transforming communities across the state
DALLAS, TEXAS (February 22, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $64,805,000 from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for Oklahoma to implement drinking water and clean water infrastructure upgrades. The funding is part of the over $50 billion investment in water infrastructure upgrades from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – the largest such investment in American history. Today’s announcement will support essential water infrastructure that protects public health and treasured water bodies across the state. Almost half of this funding will be available as grants or principal forgiveness loans, ensuring funds reach underserved communities most in need of investments in water infrastructure.
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda continues to transform communities for the better with this latest infusion of funds for critical water infrastructure projects,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With $50 billion in total, the largest investment in water infrastructure in our nation’s history, EPA will enable communities across the nation to ensure safer drinking water for their residents and rebuild vital clean water infrastructure to protect public health for decades to come.”
“Through President’s Biden Investing in America agenda, EPA can fund long-overdue water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades in our nation, and prioritize this work in underfunded areas that need it the most,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Since 2022, EPA has given over $100 million to Oklahoma, Louisiana, and New Mexico for water infrastructure needs. This new round of funding will help ensure every community can bring reliable water and wastewater services to every resident.”
Communities across the country are facing water infrastructure challenges. Many cities and towns have aging water infrastructure – old, broken or lead pipes carrying drinking water and wastewater treatment plants in need of major upgrades. Some communities struggle to maintain adequate stormwater infrastructure to effectively manage flood impacts from climate change and others need to upgrade their water treatment to address emerging contaminants like PFAS.
The funding EPA announced for Oklahoma is part of a $5.8 billion investment through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), one of EPA’s signature water investment programs. This multi-billion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs to address key challenges, with $2.6 billion going to the Clean Water SRF for wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and $3.2 billion going to the Drinking Water SRF for drinking water infrastructure nationwide. Today’s announcement includes allotments for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law General Supplemental funds and Emerging Contaminant funds for SRF programs for fiscal year 2024. EPA anticipates announcing allocations for billions of dollars in additional resources for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Lead Service Line Replacement fund later this Spring.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in Action in Oklahoma
Since 2022, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has injected $245,604,000 into water infrastructure projects across the state protecting public health, preserving water resources, and creating jobs. In September of 2023, EPA awarded Oklahoma $2,240,000 to create a new iron and manganese water treatment plant in Garfield county.
These investments are unprecedented and transformational. To view some stories about how Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has impacted communities across the country, access the Investing in America’s Water Infrastructure Storymap. To see some additional projects, please view our Quarterly Report.
Background
The Drinking Water State Revolving Funds and the Clean Water State Revolving Funds have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. SRF programs are critically important programs for investing in the nation’s water infrastructure. They are designed to generate significant and sustainable water quality and public health benefits across the country. Their impact is amplified by the growth inherent in a revolving loan structure – payment of principal and interest on loans made are available to address future needs.
For more information, including state-by-state allocation of 2024 funding, and a breakdown of EPA State Revolving Fund funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, please visit the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund website and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund website.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.
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Biden-Harris Administration Announces $42,956,000 for New Mexico to Upgrade Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure as part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda
USEPA News Release:
Biden-Harris Administration Announces $42,956,000 for New Mexico to Upgrade Drinking Water, Wastewater and Stormwater Infrastructure as part of President Biden’s Investing in America Agenda
Unprecedented funding from Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is transforming communities across the state
DALLAS, TEXAS (February 22, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) announced $42,956,000 from President Biden’s Investing in America agenda for New Mexico to implement drinking water and clean water infrastructure upgrades. The funding is part of the over $50 billion investment in water infrastructure upgrades from President Biden’s Bipartisan Infrastructure Law – the largest such investment in American history. Today’s announcement will support essential water infrastructure that protects public health and treasured water bodies across the state. Almost half of this funding will be available as grants or principal forgiveness loans, ensuring funds reach underserved communities most in need of investments in water infrastructure.
“President Biden’s Investing in America agenda continues to transform communities for the better with this latest infusion of funds for critical water infrastructure projects,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “With $50 billion in total, the largest investment in water infrastructure in our nation’s history, EPA will enable communities across the nation to ensure safer drinking water for their residents and rebuild vital clean water infrastructure to protect public health for decades to come.”
“Through President’s Biden Investing in America agenda, EPA can fund long-overdue water and wastewater infrastructure upgrades in our nation, and prioritize this work in underfunded areas that need it the most,” said Regional Administrator Dr. Earthea Nance. “Since 2022, EPA has given over $100 million to Oklahoma, Louisiana, and New Mexico for water infrastructure needs. This new round of funding will help ensure every community can bring reliable water and wastewater services to every resident.”
“This funding comes as our state continues to face unprecedented water challenges, as temperatures rise and precipitation decreases,” said New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham. “Thanks to the leadership of the Biden administration and the historic Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, our state will be better prepared for a changing climate and better positioned to protect and conserve our precious water resources.”
“In New Mexico, we know firsthand that water is life – our communities must have access to a reliable source of clean water. I’m proud to welcome this investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law of more than $42 million to upgrade water infrastructure across New Mexico,” said Senator Ben Ray Luján (NM). “This historic investment will make a real difference in the lives of New Mexicans and communities in need."
“Modernizing our water infrastructure is how we create the foundation for communities in New Mexico to thrive,” said Senator Martin Heinrich (NM). “I am proud to welcome this historic federal investment from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law that will provide clean, reliable drinking water to the communities of Socorro and Ruidoso for generations to come.”
“I am so thrilled the Village of Ruidoso will receive $350,000 from the Biden-Harris Administration for their stormwater system,” said Rep. Melanie Stansbury (NM-01). “This is what investing in America truly looks like—giving communities the tools they need to make their lives better. The Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is reshaping communities all over New Mexico and across the country!”
"I am so proud to welcome over $7.5 million in federal funding to expand Socorro's vital sewer system,” said Rep. Gabe Vasquez (NM-02). "This investment not only enhances infrastructure but lays the groundwork for cleaner, safer communities to help New Mexicans thrive."
“As the primary state agency that works directly with New Mexico’s towns and cities to update critical water infrastructure, we know firsthand the incredible impact that the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law is having on our communities,” said NM Environment Department Cabinet Secretary James Kenney. “These investments will connect more homes to sewer systems and remove them from aging septic systems, saving residents money and protecting our precious groundwater for years to come.”
Communities across the country are facing water infrastructure challenges. Many cities and towns have aging water infrastructure – old, broken or lead pipes carrying drinking water and wastewater treatment plants in need of major upgrades. Some communities struggle to maintain adequate stormwater infrastructure to effectively manage flood impacts from climate change and others need to upgrade their water treatment to address emerging contaminants like PFAS.
The funding EPA announced for New Mexico is part of a $5.8 billion investment through the Clean Water and Drinking Water State Revolving Funds (SRF), one of EPA’s signature water investment programs. This multi-billion-dollar investment will fund state-run, low-interest loan programs to address key challenges, with $2.6 billion going to the Clean Water SRF for wastewater and stormwater infrastructure and $3.2 billion going to the Drinking Water SRF for drinking water infrastructure nationwide. Today’s announcement includes allotments for Bipartisan Infrastructure Law General Supplemental funds and Emerging Contaminant funds for SRF programs for fiscal year 2024. EPA anticipates announcing allocations for billions of dollars in additional resources for the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law Lead Service Line Replacement fund later this Spring.
Bipartisan Infrastructure Law in Action in New Mexico
Since 2022, the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has injected $174,878,000 into water infrastructure projects across the state protecting public health, preserving water resources, and creating jobs.
In the City of Soroco, EPA provided $7,570,000 to expand the city sewer system and remove residents from failing septic systems which can cause pathogens and harmful substances to leak into the groundwater. In the Village of Ruidoso, $350,000 was given to upgrade the Stormwater Master Plan which is used to address flood mitigation, drainage provision, or risk assessment practices.
These investments are unprecedented and transformational. To view some stories about how Bipartisan Infrastructure Law has impacted communities across the country, access the Investing in America’s Water Infrastructure Storymap. To see some additional projects, please view our Quarterly Report.
Background
The Drinking Water State Revolving Funds and the Clean Water State Revolving Funds have been the foundation of water infrastructure investments for more than 30 years, providing low-cost financing for local projects across America. SRF programs are critically important programs for investing in the nation’s water infrastructure. They are designed to generate significant and sustainable water quality and public health benefits across the country. Their impact is amplified by the growth inherent in a revolving loan structure – payment of principal and interest on loans made are available to address future needs.
For more information, including state-by-state allocation of 2024 funding, and a breakdown of EPA State Revolving Fund funding available through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, please visit the Drinking Water State Revolving Fund website and the Clean Water State Revolving Fund website.
Connect with the Environmental Protection Agency Region 6 on Facebook, Twitter, or visit our homepage.
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Thursday, February 22, 2024
Former Kansas bank executive charged with embezzling $47 million
PRESS RELEASE
Former Kansas bank executive charged with embezzling $47 million
Monday, February 12, 2024
WICHITA, KAN. – The U.S. Attorney’s Office – District of Kansas has charged a Kansas man by information with embezzling millions of dollars from his former employer. An information is an accusation exhibited against a person for a criminal offense without an indictment from a grand jury.
According to court documents, Shan Hanes, 52, of Elkhart is charged with one count of bank embezzlement.
Hanes previously served as the chief executive officer of Heartland Tri-State based in Elkhart. Hanes is accused of intentionally defrauding the bank by willfully misapplying and embezzling approximately $47.1 million. He allegedly did this by initiating a series of wire transfers between May 2023 and July 2023 to purchase cryptocurrency for his personal benefit.
The defendant is scheduled for his initial court appearance February 28, 2024, before U.S. Magistrate Judge Gwynne E. Birzer of the U.S. District Court for the District of Kansas.
If convicted, Hanes faces a maximum penalty 30 years in prison.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation – Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG), Federal Reserve Board - Office of Inspector General (FRB-OIG), and Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General ((FHFA-OIG) are investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron Smith is prosecuting the case.
An information is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Wednesday, February 21, 2024
Monday, February 19, 2024
Sunday, February 18, 2024
Friday, February 16, 2024
Thursday, February 15, 2024
Wednesday, February 14, 2024
Tuesday, February 13, 2024
Monday, February 12, 2024
Wednesday, February 7, 2024
Tuesday, February 6, 2024
Monday, February 5, 2024
Three Men Plead Guilty to Felony Charges For Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
Three Men Plead Guilty to Felony Charges For Actions During Jan. 6 Capitol Breach
WASHINGTON – Three men pleaded guilty yesterday to felony charges related to their actions during the breach of the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. Their actions and the actions of others disrupted a joint session of the U.S. Congress convened to ascertain and count the electoral votes related to the 2020 presidential election.
Kyle Kumer, 43, of Kansas City, Missouri and William “Jessie” Stover, 46, of Elizabethtown, Kentucky pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to one count of civil disorder, a felony. Alan Michael St. Onge, 36, of Brevard, North Carolina pleaded guilty in the District of Columbia to two counts of civil disorder, a felony. U.S. District Court Judge Carl J. Nichols will sentence Stover on May 3, 2024, and St. Onge and Kumer on May 17, 2024.
According to court documents, on Jan. 6, 2021, beginning at 2:42 p.m., numerous members of the mob illegally assembled on the Capitol grounds and attacked members of the U.S. Capitol Police (USCP) and Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) who were lawfully engaged in the performance of their official duties defending an entrance to the U.S. Capitol on the Lower West Terrace known as the “Tunnel.”
The Tunnel was the site of some of the most violent attacks against police on January 6th. Over the course of more than two hours, the mob struck police with thrown items, sprayed police with chemical irritants, pushed against the police, and stole items from the police defending the Tunnel. St. Onge, Kumer, and Stover were members of the mob that relentlessly pushed against police officers in the Lower West Terrace tunnel to breach the line of law enforcement defending Congress. St. Onge also pushed against the line of police officers in the West Plaza prior to the police line falling in that location.
St. Onge initially approached the Capitol from the east before moving to the West Front of the Capitol. At approximately 2:12 p.m., as officers in the West Plaza were resisting the efforts of the mob to overcome the police line there, St. Onge pushed against the police barricade and the police who were trying to resist the rioters’ efforts. After the police line fell on the West Front, St. Onge made his way up the Inaugural Stage before arriving at the Lower West Terrace tunnel. St. Onge was initially outside the entrance to the tunnel beginning at 2:55 p.m. At 3:09 p.m., St. Onge made his way further into the tunnel and joined in with the crowd’s concerted push against the police line. Specifically, surveillance video footage captured images of St. Onge pushing, with great effort, against other rioters in an attempt to collectively breach the police line. At approximately 3:18 p.m., the police inside the tunnel gained momentum and successfully pushed the rioters, including St. Onge, out of the tunnel. St. Onge was arrested June 16, 2023, in Brevard, N.C.
Kumer, accompanied by his mother, made this way up to the Lower West Terrace and onto the Inaugural Stage at about the same time. As the crowd began to push in unison against the police line at 3:08 p.m., Kumer turned his body so that his back was pushing up against the rioters between him and the police and began to push against them. As he pushed, Kumer called out, “Let’s go! C’mon! Let’s go!” to the rioters around them to encourage them to join the push against the police. At 3:11 p.m., another group push began in the tunnel against the police. Kumer joined in again. This group push effort caused a MPD officer to be crushed between the crowd and the door. At 3:15 p.m., numerous rioters left the tunnel leaving ample open space for Kumer and his mother to also leave, but they remained in the tunnel. At 3:16 p.m., another group push effort was made against the police line by the rioters inside the tunnel. Kumer joined again. By 3:18 p.m., the police inside the tunnel succeeded in pushing all of the rioters back to the entrance of the tunnel. Kumer and his mother were two of the last rioters to be cleared from inside the tunnel. Kumer was arrested June 21, 2023, in Kansas City, Mo.
Stover arrived at the tunnel entrance at 3:16 p.m. and joined with others in the fracas to push again the police line. Stover, along with the other rioters, was eventually expelled from the tunnel entrance by police. But Stover returned with others to push against police, this time grabbing onto the side of the tunnel entrance to leverage his weight and increase his force. Stover then reached over the heads of the other rioters to grab the helmet of a police officer. Moments later, Stover received a U.S. Capitol Police riot shield which he then handed to another rioter who climbed up behind him. That rioter took the shield from Stover and used it to attack police. Stover remained at the entrance to the tunnel as the rioters fought police for 20 more minutes. At about 4:10 p.m., he was pushed away from the mouth of the tunnel by the crowd. Stover was arrested July 10, 2023, in Elizabethtown, Ky.
This case is being prosecuted by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Columbia and the Department of Justice National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices for the Western District of North Carolina, the Western District of Missouri, and the Western District of Kentucky.
The case was investigated by the FBI’s Charlotte, Louisville, Kansas City, and Washington Field Offices. Valuable assistance was provided by the U.S. Capitol Police and the Metropolitan Police Department.
In the 36 months since Jan. 6, 2021, more than 1,265 individuals have been charged in nearly all 50 states for crimes related to the breach of the U.S. Capitol, including more than 440 individuals charged with assaulting or impeding law enforcement, a felony. The investigation remains ongoing.
Anyone with tips can call 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or visit tips.fbi.gov.
EPA Works to Address Dioxin Contamination in Benton, La.
USEPA News Release:
EPA Works to Address Dioxin Contamination in Benton, La.
DALLAS, TEXAS (February 2, 2024) – The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) continues work to address elevated levels of dioxin found in soil at an apartment complex in Benton, Louisiana. The contamination was found during EPA’s investigation of Benton Creosote Works, a former wood-treating facility across the street from the apartment complex.
EPA expects to begin removing contaminated soil within 30-45 days. It will take six to eight weeks to complete the removal, which will be considered complete once sampling shows hazards have been mitigated. In the meantime, the most important safety recommendation for residents is to avoid contact with contaminated soil, and especially to prevent children from playing in soil. For the safety of residents, EPA installed fencing around the common areas where contamination has been found.
EPA’s safety recommendations include:
- Avoid touching, walking on, or coming into contact with contaminated soil. Children should be monitored closely to prevent them from playing in soil.
- If possible, prevent pets from walking on or digging in soil. Wipe their paws with a wet cloth before coming inside.
- Remove shoes or clothes that have been in contact with soil before coming inside.
- Thoroughly wash hands or other exposed skin as soon as possible after touching soil.
Elevated levels of dioxins can cause cancer, reproductive and developmental problems, damage to the immune system, and can interfere with hormones. Residents concerned about possible exposure should consult their doctor.
Dioxin found in the soil is not a threat to the apartment complex’s tap water, which is supplied from Bossier City, Louisiana.
EPA will keep residents and the city of Benton updated on work at the site.
For more information about dioxin, please visit https://www.epa.gov/dioxin.