As New Year's Eve Approaches, AT&T Aims to Reach Millions With Powerful Anti-Texting While Driving Message

/PRNewswire/ -- "Where u at." Those three words made up the last text message Mariah West read before her car crashed into a bridge, ending her life. Approaching one of the most dangerous days on the road – New Year's Eve – AT&T* today announced the release of a powerful new documentary featuring stories from individuals, including Mariah's parents, whose lives have been altered by texting while driving.

The 10-minute piece will be distributed nationwide to schools, safety organizations, government agencies and more as part of AT&T's "It Can Wait" campaign. Each of the eight individuals included in the full-length reel volunteered their stories to help AT&T educate wireless customers – particularly youth – on the risks of tapping away on their cell phones in the car. The documentary can be viewed online at no charge on AT&T's "It Can Wait" website and on AT&T's YouTube page.

"Distracted driving is an epidemic, particularly among teens who are confident in their ability to text or talk while driving," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "Of the 5,500 people killed last year due to distracted driving, the largest proportion of fatalities occurred among young people under the age of 20. I hope teens will take this powerful video to heart and realize that when you're behind the wheel, no text message or phone call is worth the risk."

"This documentary is a raw look at the reality and hazards of texting while driving, and we hope it will make wireless customers think twice before pulling out their cell phones in the driver's seat," said Cathy Coughlin, senior executive vice president and global marketing officer for AT&T. "As a global telecommunications company, it is our responsibility to bring these risks to light, especially now during the holiday season and as we approach New Year's Eve."

The documentary is supported by CTIA – The Wireless Association, The National Safety Council (NSC), National Organizations for Youth Safety (NOYS) and Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

AT&T is working to distribute the video to numerous government agencies and safety organizations around the country, as well as to educators, students and policymakers to put real faces to the growing problem and spread the message. It will also appear on the websites and communication channels such as newsletters and social media pages of NOYS (http://noys.org/), along with tens of thousands of schools affiliated with the organization.

In addition, AT&T will share the documentary with its wireless customers, employees and families through:

* AT&T's Teen Advisory Council – 10 teens of AT&T employees from across the country – and their schools;
* AT&T U-verse® Mobile, AT&T U-verse Online and AT&T U-verse TV On Demand (airing continuously beginning this week on a dedicated channel at no cost to subscribers);
* The AT&T employee "Defensive Driving" courses required for all company employees who drive as part of their job;
* AT&T's Smart Controls(SM) page (www.att.com/smartcontrols), an all-in-one destination with information and tools for parents and children on how to stay safe with technology, and tips to manage content, spending, time and location;
* AT&T's "It Can Wait" resource center (www.att.com/txtngcanwait) and www.att.com multimedia download center; and
* AT&T's Friends & Family page (http://itcanwait.att.com/)


AT&T's "It Can Wait" campaign launched in March 2010, and to date, more than 21,600 consumers have taken the pledge not to text and drive on AT&;T's Facebook page, in addition to more than 16,700 AT&T employees through its internal social media channel. More than 10,000 pledges have also been made on the AT&T Friends & Family page – an employee-led initiative encouraging others to commit to the cause.

AT&T continues to raise awareness about the issue of texting and driving through a multifaceted initiative. The campaign spans print, radio, TV and online advertising, in-store signage, collateral and online billing. In addition, parents, high school educators and, most importantly, youth, can visit AT&T's online resource center. The site includes downloadable information about texting while driving such as a parent-teen pledge, a teen-teen pledge, a poster, a brochure, safety tips and more.

Since 2009, the company has revised its wireless and motor vehicle policies to more clearly and explicitly prohibit texting and driving, impacting its more than 265,000 employees; incorporated a don't-text-and-drive message on the plastic clings that protect handset screens on the majority of new devices sold in AT&T's more than company-owned 2,200 stores; and has integrated campaign messaging in AT&T catalogs, in-store signage and collateral, bills, e-mails, newsletters and more.

As one of the nation's leading employers and with one of the largest commercial fleets, AT&T has also incorporated a section on the hazards of texting and driving in its defensive driving classes, which all employees who drive as part of their job are required to take.

For additional information on AT&T's "It Can Wait" campaign, please visit http://www.att.com/txtngcanwait.

*AT&T products and services are provided or offered by subsidiaries and affiliates of AT&T Inc. under the AT&T brand and not by AT&T Inc.

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Douglasville Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Child Pornography Offense

RICHARD W. RODGERS, 42, of Douglasville, Georgia, was sentenced December 20 by United States District Court Judge Thomas W. Thrash, Jr., to federal prison on a charge of receiving child pornography.

United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said, “Thanks to the work of an undercover FBI agent, this offender has been prosecuted for receiving more than 1,000 images and many videos of child pornography and making hundreds of those images available for others via the Internet. Today's sentence is a reminder to all those who consider this illegal conduct: child pornography offenders face serious consequences for their crimes."

RODGERS was sentenced to five years in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release. He pled guilty to the charge on August 13, 2010.

According to United States Attorney Yates and information presented in court: A Federal Bureau of Investigation agent working in an undercover capacity in Richmond, Virginia, logged onto an Internet file sharing network on April 4, 2008, and searched for offenders who had images of child pornography available for sharing with other Internet users. The agent's search quickly returned a list of more than 300 child pornography images that were available for sharing from a computer which was traced to RODGERS. When FBI agents executed a federal search warrant at RODGERS' residence in Douglasville, Georgia, they found more than 1,300 still images and 49 videos of child pornography on his home laptop computer. During interviews with federal agents, RODGERS admitted that he had searched for and received the child pornography from Internet sources.

This case was investigated by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and its Innocent Images Task Force.

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Gift Card Tips

Giving gift cards for the holidays can be the perfect answer to finding a present for that hard-to-shop-for relative or friend. However, the Governor’s Office of Consumer Protection wants consumers to be well informed so that the gift cards they give and receive are worth what the buyer intended.

First, beware of gift card scams. Con artists have been known to record gift card numbers and obtain PIN codes by removing the protective coating. Then they keep checking online to see if the card has funds on it. Once the card is purchased by the consumer, the card is activated and the scammer will be able to make an online purchase using the gift card funds. When the legitimate owner of the gift card subsequently tries to use the card, he will discover that there are little or no funds left on the card.

Another common scam is when someone resells a gift card – usually via an online auction or website – claiming it has a higher value than it actually does. Consumers should therefore avoid buying gift cards from online auctions or resellers because they could end up with a stolen card or one whose funds have been used up. Your safest bet is to buy the gift card from the store it’s from. Even then, you should check to make sure that the PIN number has not been tampered with; if it has, ask for another card and explain why. You should also ask the salesperson to scan your gift card to make sure that the funds have been correctly loaded onto the card.

Save your receipt because if the card is ever lost or stolen some stores may be able to give you a replacement card.

Also, you should consider the reputation of the company whose gift card you are buying. If it is lesser known or on shaky financial ground, there is a possibility that the company could go out of business. If that happens, your gift card could end up being worthless.



That’s an important consideration for gift card recipients as well. The best protection recipients have against a company going out of business is to use the card sooner rather than later. You may want to do that anyway since many people who don’t use a gift card right away end up forgetting about it, which can lead to the card expiring or incurring inactivity fees.

Gift card recipients should also take note of the following new rules which offer greater protections for consumers:

• Money on a gift card cannot expire for at least five years from the date the card was purchased, or from the last date any additional money was loaded onto the card. If the expiration date listed on the card is earlier than these dates, the money can be transferred to a replacement card at no cost.
• Inactivity fees can be charged only after a card hasn’t been used for at least one year, and then only once per month. But fees may be charged to buy the card or to replace a lost or stolen card.
• The card must clearly disclose its expiration date, and the card or packaging must clearly disclose any fees. There is one exception: Some cards produced before April 1, 2010, that list a short expiration time or inactivity fees in the first year may be sold through January 31, 2011. However, no matter what a card says, consumers still are protected by the new rules.

For more information, contact Bill Cloud, Governor’s Office of Consumer Protection, at 404-656-3790.
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Former Atlanta Police Officer Sentenced to 12 Years for Corruption and Drug Trafficking

LUCIUS T. SOLOMON, III, 32, of Atlanta, formerly an officer with the Atlanta Police Department, was sentenced to prison December 16 by United States District Judge Richard W. Story on corruption and drug charges.

United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said, “This police officer took an oath to protect the public from criminals. Instead, he protected the criminals from law enforcement. Now he is headed to federal prison.”

Brian D. Lamkin, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Office, said, “Public corruption investigations are a high priority at the FBI given that the potential for damage and discredit to law enforcement is very high. While these corruption cases are a serious breach of the public trust, it should be noted that the vast majority of those working within law enforcement fully understand their oaths and reflect often on their commitment to public service.”

Atlanta Police Chief George Turner said, “The public simply must have confidence in its police officers. While I believe this incident is not indicative of the vast majority of hardworking, honest and dedicated officers out there on the streets of Atlanta day in and day out, today’s sentence sends a strong message to those who would stray from their mission to uphold and enforce the law.”

SOLOMON was sentenced to 12 years in prison, to be followed by five years of supervised release. SOLOMON was also ordered to perform 200 hours of community service. He pled guilty to the charges on September 2, 2010.

According to United States Attorney Yates, the charges and other information presented in court: On three occasions in 2009 and 2010, SOLOMON provided protection for what he believed to be multi-kilogram cocaine deals. For each deal, SOLOMON agreed to protect the people he thought were drug dealers in exchange for $2,000. On two of those occasions, SOLOMON was on duty, in uniform, and in his marked police vehicle when he provided the protection. SOLOMON’s participation in each of these three drug transactions forms the basis for both the corruption and the drug charges.

This case was investigated by Special Agents of the FBI and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Atlanta Police Department.

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Theft of Trade Secrets Sentencing

Michael J. Moore, United States Attorney, announced that Kevin Crow, age 57, was sentenced on December 13, 2010 to 36 months in federal prison without parole, three years' supervised release, a $10,000.00 fine, and a mandatory assessment of $100.00.

Crow was charged in a one-count information with theft of trade secrets, in violation of Title 18 United States Code, Section 1832. He entered a plea agreement on June 11, 2010.

The defendant was an engineer employed by Turbine Engines Components Technologies Corporation (TECT) in Thomasville, Georgia, from approximately August 1979 until June of 2007, when the defendant was laid off by the company. TECT manufactures a diverse range of products related to or including trade secrets. These products range from premium forged hand tools and medical instruments to aircraft hardware and turbine engine components, all of which are related to interstate and or foreign commerce. As an employee of TECT, Crow continually provided policy statements with explicit direction on identifying trade secrets within the company and how to protect those trade secrets. During Crow's exit interview he signed a document stating that he had returned all documents containing any trade secret information to TECT, when in fact, he had taken approximately 100 computer discs containing multiple pieces of information considered trade secrets from TECT.

Crow was later employed by Precision Components International (PCI) in Columbus, Georgia, a competitor of TECT. Both companies are in the business of manufacturing and selling engine blades for military aircraft engines. After being employed with PCI, Crow made numerous contacts with employees of TECT requesting forging price sheets containing vendor and customer information. He also requested copies of TECT's 2007 and 2008 contract reviews that contained trade secret information. Crow admitted in a conversation with a TECT employee that he took computer discs, blueprints, and cost and pricing information belonging to TECT, and admitted that providing the information could be considered industrial espionage.

The United States and the Defendant, through counsel, stipulated that Turbine Engines Components Technologies Corporation (TECT) suffered losses not exceeding $14 million.

United States Attorney Michael Moore said, "This type of industrial espionage is a serious matter, especially when it involves the production of parts for our military aircraft.

The damages alone to TECT and its employees might be calculated in dollars, but the potential harm to our military equipment readiness is still unknown."

The case was investigated by Special Agent Andy Crabtree of the Federal Bureau of Investigation along with Agents of Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The prosecution was conducted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Kolman.

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Former Archbold CEO Ken B. Beverly Convicted of All Six Counts Related to Medicaid Fraud

The United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, Michael J. Moore, announced that on December 8, 2010, Ken B. Beverly was convicted after a seven-day jury trial of six felony offenses related to Medicaid fraud and obstruction of justice.

Moore said, “Mr. Beverly’s conduct is an example of extraordinary greed. He was willing to try and fraudulently obtain money from a public program specifically designed to guarantee that those who need medical care but can’t afford it have a way to receive treatment. With the crisis in our health care system, this type of fraud and abuse is simply reprehensible.”

The trial took place in the United States District Court in Valdosta, Georgia, the Honorable W. Louis Sands presiding. Defendant Beverly was formerly the CEO and president of Archbold Medical Center and Archbold Memorial Hospital, Thomasville, Georgia, and served in those positions for over 20 years. Beverly was convicted of all six counts of the indictment:

Count One: Conspiracy to Falsify Records - 18 U.S.C. § 1519 /i/c/w § 371
Counts Two and Three: Falsification of Records -18 U.S.C. § 1519
Counts Four and Five: Obstruction of Justice - Witness Tampering - 18 U.S.C. § 1512(b)(1)
Count Six: Misleading Statements - 18 U.S.C. § 1512(b)(3)

Counts One, Two and Three of the indictment charged Ken Beverly with participating in, and committing acts in furtherance of, a conspiracy to falsely portray Archbold Memorial Hospital as a public hospital, controlled and owned by a governmental authority, in order to qualify for additional Medicaid funds. In fact, Archbold Memorial Hospital is, and always has been, a private, not-for-profit hospital. Defendant Beverly conspired with former CFO William Sellers to create fictitious documents showing the City of Thomasville Hospital Authority owned and controlled Archbold Memorial Hospital. Beverly directed Sellers to send these fraudulent documents to the Georgia Department of Community Health in order for Archbold Memorial to receive funds as a public, rather than a private hospital. Federal Medicaid officials had requested proof of Archbold’s public status.

Counts Four and Five of the indictment charged Beverly with witness tampering by attempting to induce Sellers to remain silent about Beverly’s role in the conspiracy in exchange for Beverly’s efforts to protect Seller’s retirement benefits.

Count Six charged Beverly with making misleading statements in a civil deposition when questioned about the fraudulent documents.

Count One carries a maximum term of imprisonment of five years, a maximum fine of $250,000.00, and three years supervised released. Counts Two through Six each carry a maximum term of imprisonment of 20 years, together with supervised release of three years, and a maximum fine of $250,000.00, per count.

Defendant Beverly remains released on bond pending sentencing, which is expected to take place in about sixty days at a time set by the court.

This case was prosecuted by the Assistant United States Attorney Jim Crane, together with Federal Bureau of Investigation Special Agent Steve McDermond.

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Robbery of Wells Fargo Bank Branch in Atlanta

Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Brian D. Lamkin, FBI Atlanta, requests the assistance of the public in identifying and locating the individual responsible for the December 7 armed robbery of the Wells Fargo Bank, located at 2280 Cascade Road, Atlanta, Georgia.

On Tuesday, December 7, 2010, at approximately 9:40 a.m., a lone black male entered the Wells Fargo Bank, located at 2280 Cascade Road, Atlanta, Georgia, and, after initially being waited on by a customer service representative, discreetly announced a robbery. The robber, wearing an Ace-type medical bandage around his face and a sling on his left arm, displayed a weapon that he pulled from the arm sling, stating "you know what time it is." The robber then forced the bank employee to multiple teller stations where she was made to place money in a blue bag that he provided. During this process, the robber then openly displayed the weapon, a silver semi-automatic handgun, for the rest of the bank occupants to see.

After obtaining an undisclosed amount of money, the robber departed the bank without further incident. No vehicle associated with the robber was observed.

The robber is described as being a black male, 25-35 years in age, 5-‘6” to 5’8” in height, small build, weighing 140-145 lbs. He was wearing a dark blue with light blue striped rugby style long sleeved shirt, and an Ace bandage around his face with an additional bandage over his nose.

Wells Fargo Bank has announced a reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of this individual.

Anyone with information regarding this matter should contact the Atlanta office FBI at tel. (404) 679-9000.

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Internet Crime Complaint Center's (IC3) Scam Alerts

This report, which is based upon information from law enforcement and complaints
submitted to the IC3, details recent cyber crime trends and new twists to previously-existing
cyber scams.

New Twist on Extortion/Hit Man Scam

The IC3 has received several complaints referencing a new twist on the
extortion/hit man scam, which is now targeting nannies and day care providers.
The fraudster contacts the potential victims via email claiming their team was hired
by a friend of the victim to "terminate" them. The fraudster demands amounts ranging
from $150,000 to $250,000 to call off the hit and claims he will hand over a tape
containing evidence as to who hired him once the amount is paid. The recipient is
threatened with murder and the kidnapping of the children in their care if they
fail to comply.

The majority of the victims had some affiliation with a nanny position and speculated
that the fraudster must have obtained their contact information through an online
classified ad offering their services as nannies. Others stated they had advertised
online that they were seeking a nanny, while one victim was reportedly a day care
worker.

Payment Processor Possibly Conducting a Ponzi Scheme

Since January 2010, the IC3 has received hundreds of complaints regarding a website
that victims reportedly used to transfer money for the sales of firearms; however,
the website has not allowed them to withdraw the funds after their merchandise was
sold.

The website claims to be a payment processor to be used as an alternative to other
familiar online payment transfer services and was created to allow for the purchase
of items that others of its kind do not allow (e.g., firearms). The website encourages
consumers to use their services by advertising that they send money to consumers
or anyone with an email address, an individual can easily pay for anything using
the web, and sign-up is free, quick, and easy.

The website appears to have been set up as a legitimate business but shortly after
operations began, customers started experiencing funding delays. Ultimately, customers
who received funds only received partial payments, and those payments were delayed
by months.

Additional research indicates that the money submitted for transfer may have been
fraudulently misappropriated. This scam appears to have become a Ponzi scheme with
previous customers being paid by funds from new customers.

Fraudsters Preying on Individuals Who are Wanting to Adopt

The IC3 received information from law enforcement and complaints filed with the
IC3 concerning an adoption scam. The scam is an attempt to collect personal information
and funds from individuals seeking to adopt a child. Victims reported responding
to on-line advertisements for adoptions, such as "Baby Needs A Home." The operators
of the site are fraudsters who claimed to have an overseas orphaned child in need
of adoption. Preying on victims' emotions, the fraudsters explained how they promised
to care for the child after the mother's death.

The fraudsters said they were not affiliated with an adoption agency because no
such agencies exist in their area. Nevertheless, they asked the victims to send
pictures of their family and to complete forms that required personal information
such as Social Security Number and their mother's maiden name. Fraudsters sent the
victims a birth certificate and pictures of a child. One victim reported that the
birth certificate appeared altered. Fraudsters told victims to send hundreds of
dollars via money order, credit card, or wire transfer to a bank account for legal
fees. The fraudsters claimed they would "ship" the child upon receipt of the funds.
Instead, the fraudsters pocketed the money gained from the scam and provided no
children for adoption.

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Telephone Collection Scam Related to Delinquent Payday Loans

The IC3 (Internet Crime Complaint Center) receives a high volume of complaints from victims of payday loan telephone collection scams. In these scams, a caller claims that the victim is delinquent
in a payday loan and must repay the loan to avoid legal consequences. The callers purport to be representatives of the FBI, Federal Legislative Department, various law firms, or other legitimate-sounding agencies. They claim to be collecting debts for companies such as United Cash Advance,
U.S. Cash Advance, U.S. Cash Net, and other internet check cashing services.

One of the most insidious aspects of this scam is that the callers have accurate information about the victims, including social security numbers, dates of birth, addresses, employer information, bank account numbers, names and telephone numbers of relatives and friends. The method by which the fraudsters obtained the personal information is unclear, but victims often relay that they had completed online applications for other loans or credit cards before the calls began.

The fraudsters relentlessly call the victim's home, cell phone, and place of employment. They refuse to provide to the victims any details of the alleged payday loans and become abusive when questioned. The callers threaten victims with legal actions, arrests, and in some cases physical violence if they refuse to pay. In many cases, the callers even resort to harassment of the victim's relatives, friends, and employers.

Some fraudsters instruct victims to fax a statement agreeing to pay a certain dollar amount, on a specific date, via prepaid visa card. The statement further declares that the victim would never dispute the debt.

These telephone calls are an attempt to obtain payment by instilling fear in the victims. Do not follow the instuctions of the caller.

If you receive telephone calls such as these, you should:

* Contact your banking institutions;
* Contact the three major credit bureaus and request an alert be put on your file;
* Contact your local law enforcement agencies if you feel you are in immediate danger;
* File a complaint at www.IC3.gov.

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Fayetteville Police Alcohol Sting Nets 5 Arrests

On November 26, 2010, members of the Fayetteville Police Criminal Investigations Unit along with the Fayetteville Police Warrant Unit conducted Special Operation Beer Buy 2010. This operation used an underage informant, to attempt to purchase alcohol from the twelve convenience stores in the city. The informant attempted to purchase alcohol from all twelve stores and was successful in those attempts in five of those twelve stores. The following is a list of the convenience stores and the offenders who were arrested and turned over to the Fayette County jail:

Thomas B.P
450 North Glynn Street
Fayetteville, GA 30214
Operator / Vikki Kelly

Star B. P.
744 North Glynn Street
Fayetteville, GA 30214
Operator / Nisar Rana

Village Market
765 North Glynn Street
Fayetteville, GA 30214
Operator / Daljit Sahney

Pit Stop North/ Phillips 66
630 North Glynn Street
Fayetteville, GA 30214
Operator / Musharaf Khan

Grady B.P.
610 West Lanier
Fayetteville, GA 30214
Operator / Kelly Martin

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Seeking Information on Armored Car Robberies

Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Brian D. Lamkin, FBI Atlanta, requests the public’s assistance in identifying and locating the individuals responsible for the November 29 armed robbery of a Loomis armored car courier, which occurred at the Wells Fargo Bank, 3520 Centerville Highway, Snellville, Georgia.

On Monday, November 29, 2010, at approximately 9:00 a.m., a courier for a Loomis Armored Car was robbed at gunpoint while servicing an ATM at the Wells Fargo Bank, located at 3520 Centerville Highway, Snellville, Georgia.

The courier was approached from behind by a single robber who placed a semi automatic handgun to the courier’s head. The robber departed the area with an undisclosed amount of money and was seen getting into the back seat of a light blue or silver vehicle, described as being possibly a Buick, Oldsmobile, or Jaguar.

The robber is described as being a black male, late 20’s in age, 5’5” to 5’11” in height, medium build, wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and a black cap.

FBI agents are comparing the details of the above robbery to other similar Metro Atlanta area robberies, which include the following:

A September 14, 2010 robbery of a Garda Armored courier while at the Bank of America, located at 1775 Howell Mill Road, Atlanta, Georgia. Two black males approached the courier while he was servicing an ATM at that location. Both robbers were brandishing semi-automatic handguns. During that robbery, the courier was forced to the ground and his sidearm was taken by the robbers.

An October 7, 2010, 1:00 p.m. robbery of a Dunbar Armored courier, which occurred inside of a Mex-America Latino store, located at 641 South Marietta Parkway, Marietta, Georgia In that robbery, two black males, one with long black dreadlocks, waited inside of the above store for the courier to arrive. Upon arrival, the two robbers confronted the courier with handguns.

A November 11, 2010, robbery of a Dunbar Armored courier while at the Bank of America, located at 1500 Buford Highway, Buford, Georgia. In that robbery, the courier was robbed while servicing an ATM at that location. The courier was approached from behind by two black male suspects brandishing handguns.One of the robbers was described as having a gold upper tooth. The robbers were seen departing that robbery in a blue Chevrolet Tahoe, recovered shortly after the robbery and determined to have been reported stolen in Atlanta.

Anyone with information regarding this matter should contact the Atlanta office FBI at tel. (404) 679-9000.

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ATF Offers $10k Reward for Information on Retail Gun Theft

/PRNewswire/ -- A reward of up to $10,000 for information leading to the arrest and convictions of those responsible for a recent firearms armed robbery at Welsh Pawn Shop, a federally licensed gun dealer in Savannah, Ga. was announced today by Gregory K. Gant, Special Agent in Charge of the Atlanta Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Savannah/Chatham County Crime Stoppers has pledged a reward of up to $2,500 for the arrest of those responsible for the robbery. The owners of Welsh Pawn have also announced an additional reward of $5,000 for information leading to the arrest of the perpetrators. This crime has triggered a joint investigation between ATF and the Savannah-Chatham Metro Police Department.

"The people of Savannah deserve a safe community. Unfortunately, there are a few violent individuals whose illegal activities threaten to diminish our quality of life. Gun thieves play a critical and deadly role in the chain of violence. ATF will continue to partner with state and local law enforcement agencies to solve this crime," Gant said.

The armed robbery occurred around 10 a.m., Friday, at the business located at 2800 Skidaway Rd., Savannah, Ga. The suspects walked into the business, asked workers to view a few items, then started shooting. Two clerks were shot and received non life-threatening injuries. The robbers smashed glass cases and removed several items to include six firearms. The clerks could only identify the robbers as two black males, wearing dark clothing and baseball caps.

Investigators are seeking the public's help with identifying the subjects involved and providing information on the location of any or all of the stolen firearms. Anyone with information is encouraged to call ATF's toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477) or Savannah/Chatham County Crime Stoppers at (912) 234-2020. Callers can remain anonymous.

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Senior U.S. District Court Judge Pleads Guilty to Possession of Controlled Substances and Conversion of Government Property

Senior U.S. District Judge Jack T. Camp Jr., pleaded guilty today (November 19) in U.S. District Court in Atlanta to possession of controlled substances and conversion of government property, announced Assistant Attorney General Lanny A. Breuer of the Criminal Division, Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Lamkin of the FBI’s Atlanta office and Director Vernon Keenan of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation.

Camp, 67, a Senior U.S. District Judge in the Northern District of Georgia, pleaded guilty to two counts of unlawful possession of controlled substances and one count of conversion of government property. Camp’s guilty plea was accepted by Senior U.S. District Judge Thomas J. Hogan for the District of Columbia, who was sitting by designation in the Northern District of Georgia. Sentencing has been scheduled for Mar. 4, 2011, at 11:00 a.m.

As part of his guilty plea, Camp admitted that between May 2010 and Oct. 1, 2010, he unlawfully possessed and used cocaine, marijuana, and Roxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance. Camp also admitted to giving an individual, whom he knew had a prior felony drug conviction, money to purchase cocaine, Roxycodone, and marijuana. Camp admitted that he unlawfully gave the individual a U.S. District Court laptop computer for her personal use. Camp was arrested on Oct. 1, 2010, after attempting to purchase drugs from an undercover FBI agent posing as a drug dealer.

The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Deborah Sue Mayer and Tracee Joy Plowell of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section. The case was investigated by the FBI Atlanta’s Public Corruption Squad. The Georgia Bureau of Investigation provided substantial assistance in this case.

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Fayetteville Police Offer Safety Tips for Holiday Shoppers

The Fayetteville Police Department would like to offer some tips to help you be more aware during the Holiday season. It’s that time of year! Shopping during the holiday season can present unique dangers when busy people become careless and vulnerable to theft and other crime. Taking a few prevention measurers can help keep your holiday season joyous.

Shop during daylight hours whenever possible.

If you must shop at night, go with a friend or family member.

Valuables and packages left in vehicles should be kept out of sight.

Lock your car and close the windows, even if you will be away for only a few minutes.

Watch your purse, wallet and checkbook while you shop.

Even though you are rushed and thinking about a thousand things, stay alert to your surroundings.

Do not let people distract you (some thieves work in pairs-while one person asks for your help reading a label or retrieving items off of shelves the other is sealing your stuff).

Always double check that the sales clerk returned your credit card and driver’s license.

Never let your credit card out of your sight.

Be cautious of money scams (putting your money with their money, cashing a check for someone).

Drive safely and always wear your seatbelt - even on short trips.

Notify the credit card issuer immediately if your credit card is lost, stolen or misused.

Be alert to any activity near your car.

Report suspicious activity immediate!

Do not be afraid to call 911; that’s what we are here for!

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Carjacking and Firearms Conviction Results in 77-Year Prison Sentence

Michael J. Moore, United States Attorney for the Middle District of Georgia, announced that Albert Eugene Dunn, age 27, of Valdosta, Georgia, was sentenced by the Honorable W. Louis Sands, United States District Judge, on November 17, 2010, to 924 months (77 years) in federal prison without parole.

Dunn was charged in a seven-count indictment with three counts of carjacking and four counts of federal firearm violations arising from two separate home invasions. The jury trial concluded on May 10, 2010 with Dunn being convicted on all counts.

Evidence presented during the course of the trial revealed that Dunn, with the help of an accomplice, invaded the homes of college students while armed with and using firearms and knives. He demanded valuables and took vehicles belonging to the victims with the intent to cause death and serious bodily injury.

Judge Sands granted the government’s request to impose a harsher sentence than that normally provided for such cases by Federal Sentencing Guidelines, commenting that this sentence was appropriate to provide punishment and to protect the public from future crimes of the defendant.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation sponsored Multi Agency Task Force with Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office Investigator Tim Davis and Valdosta Police Department’s Sergeant Kari Williams. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Verda Colvin.

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ATF Launches Text-Based Crime Tip Submission System

/PRNewswire- -- The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Office of Strategic Intelligence and Information, today announced the launch of a text messaging crime tip submission system. During the course of this six-month pilot program, crime tips can be submitted anonymously by text message to ATF's Joint Support and Operations Center for review and processing.

The general public will benefit from the easy to use, anonymous system that will allow them to readily relay information from any cell phone. ATF will benefit from an increased flow of real-time intelligence, which will enhance its investigative capabilities and help keep communities safer.

To submit a crime tip, one can begin by texting a message with "ATF" in the body of the message to the number "274637" (CRIMES).

The initial submission will trigger an auto response from the secure transaction server. The text sender will receive a response, including a unique code number, which must be remembered for encryption and identification purposes. The sender and ATF coordinator may then elect to engage in a secure and encrypted two-way dialog with no additional keywords being required.

The sender can also text "STOP" to the number "274637" (CRIMES) at anytime to pause the system. This is helpful in situations where you cannot be replied to by ATF. If you send "STOP" to the short code number, messages from that point will not get a reply, but are received by ATF. Any new text messages would require repeating these steps from the beginning, utilizing a new code number generated by the system.

For additional information on ATF's SMS text messaging capability, please visit http://www.atf.gov/contact/sms/. For additional information concerning submission of crime tips to ATF, please refer to http://www.atf.gov/contact/hotlines/.

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Crime Victim Law Group to Release 'Choosing a Safer Apartment Community in Georgia.'

/PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Crime Victim Law Group announced the release of a guide designed to help Atlanta renters avoid crime and find a safe place to live. "Choosing a Safer Apartment Community in Georgia" presents simple, effective guidelines for finding a safe apartment complex; tips on how to make your current apartment safer; and, precautions to take to avoid being a victim of crime at any apartment property.

The purpose of the guide is to alert renters to conditions that enable criminals to victimize apartment dwellers and their guests. Being able to recognize certain conditions and situations helps a renter make a well-informed decision when choosing an apartment.

The guide details how inadequate or poor security can create an environment that not only encourages crime, it practically invites it. Properly functioning gated entries, effective security guards, and active neighborhood watch programs can make a substantial difference in deterring criminals who often operate in apartment communities.

The Crime Victim Law Group guide "Choosing a Safer Apartment Community in Georgia" is available as a PDF download at: http://www.victimattorneys.com/choosing-a-safer-apartment-community-in-georgia-download-the-pdf

From finding a safe apartment to making a current home safer, this Guide is intended to empower Atlanta renters so they might avoid becoming victims. Knowledge is power when choosing a home environment that is relatively free from violent crime. And, knowing the right questions to ask and the right things to look for can make all the difference when the safety, health and well-being of family and friends is at stake.

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Federal Jury Convicts Georgia Man for Armed Bank Robbery in Munford

A federal jury today (November 12) convicted a Georgia man for conspiring with and committing an armed bank robbery with three other individuals in Munford in June, announced U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance and FBI Special Agent in Charge Patrick Maley.

The jury convicted TYCORY “T.C.” HILL, 24, of Decatur, Ga., of conspiracy to commit armed bank robbery, armed bank robbery, and using a firearm during a crime of violence, all in connection with the June 10 robbery of the Munford Branch of the First National Bank of Talladega. Jurors returned their verdict after deliberating about three hours on the two days of testimony before U.S. District Judge L. Scott Coogler.

“Good, solid police work by local and federal law enforcement, working together, led to one of the defendants, who cooperated and provided information that led to the other defendants in the bank robbery,” Vance said. “Three men burst into the Munford bank brandishing guns, threatening the lives of everyone inside and taking more than $177,000. The law enforcement officers in this case deserve to be commended for apprehending the bank robbers and helping bring them all to justice,” she said.

Two of the co-defendants, cousins JUSTIN COLE, 21, and JOHNATHAN COLE, 20, both of Gadsden, pleaded guilty in August to the conspiracy, armed robbery and firearm counts. BRITTNEY TRIMBLE, 20, also of Gadsden, pleaded guilty to conspiracy and armed robbery. All three testified for the government in HILL’s trial.

According to testimony, the bank robbery occurred as follows:

HILL and the two other men, JUSTIN and JOHNATHAN COLE, entered the bank in Munford on June 10 armed and wearing either a mask or bandana over their faces. The robbers jumped the teller counter, pointed guns at tellers, demanded money and threatened to kill tellers if they did not comply. The robbers took money from the bank vault and from teller drawers, escaping with about $177,795.

The robbers fled the bank in a stolen car, which they drove to a nearby apartment complex and abandoned. TRIMBLE was waiting at the complex with another getaway car.

The maximum prison sentence for conspiracy to commit armed robbery is five years. The maximum prison sentence for armed bank robbery is 25 years. The firearms charge carries a mandatory minimum prison sentence of seven years and a maximum of life in prison. The firearms sentence must be served consecutively to any sentence on the other convictions.

This case was investigated by the Talladega County Sheriff’s Office, special agents of the FBI field office in Gadsden, the Etowah County Drug Enforcement Unit and the Gadsden Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jim Weil and Praveen Krishna.

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Rome Man Pleads Guilty in Multi-Million-Dollar Timber Fraud Scheme

AARON WILBERT FREEMAN, 50, of Rome, Georgia, pleaded guilty before Senior United States District Judge Robert L. Vining in federal district court late yesterday (November 2) to multiple charges relating to a $4 million scheme involving timber that did not exist. A jury had been selected and FREEMAN’s trial was set to begin today when FREEMAN pleaded late yesterday.

United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said of yesterday’s guilty plea, “Paper is made from trees, but in this case, Freeman created trees out of paper. He did so by manipulating his employer’s computer system to create phony receipts for timber deliveries that never took place. He also recruited timber truck drivers to redeem the fake receipts for payment, then laundered the proceeds through multiple financial institutions.”

Brian D. Lamkin, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta, stated, “The level of fraud that Mr. Freeman conspired to commit against his former employer, the Temple-Inland Company, was significant. The FBI is pleased that, through its investigation and the resulting prosecution by the U.S. Attorney's Office, not only was any additional fraud stopped, but now Mr. Freeman will be held accountable for his actions.”

According to United States Attorney Yates, the charges, and other information presented in court: FREEMAN worked as a scale house operator at the Temple-Inland Co. paper mill in Floyd County, Georgia until June 2006. The scale house received and weighed approximately 350 timber trucks each day, providing a delivery receipt, known in the industry as a “scale ticket,” to each driver as proof of delivery. Between 2003 and 2006, FREEMAN worked primarily during the night shift, often alone, processing timber deliveries through the scale house computer system.

While working in the scale house during this time frame, FREEMAN manipulated the computer system to produce multiple weight readings when a single timber truck passed through the paper mill’s scale, making it appear as if there had been two or more deliveries when there had only been one. FREEMAN then caused the computer system to generate false scale tickets for the phantom loads, along with valid scale tickets for the legitimate deliveries. The Rome scale house computer system would simultaneously transmit the delivery information electronically to Temple-Inland’s headquarters in Austin, Texas, ultimately resulting in electronic funds transfers from Temple-Inland’s bank to timber suppliers’ bank accounts in Georgia and South Carolina.

After creating the false scale tickets, FREEMAN recruited multiple co-conspirators, including KEVIN A. FIELDS, 31, of Forsyth, Georgia; JASON S. JOSEPH, 32, of Macon, Georgia; ROGER G. CARTHERN, 63, and R. ANDREW CARTHERN, 40, both of Jefferson, Georgia; J. DAVID CARTHERN, 64, of Commerce, Georgia; ROBERT FRANK FERGUSON, JR., 56, of Maysville, Georgia; and GEORGE BONNER TATE, 40, of Hartwell, Georgia, to redeem the false scale tickets for payment by timber suppliers, launder the payments through multiple banks and credit unions, and return a share of the money to FREEMAN in cash.

By manipulating the scale house computer system and creating false scale tickets, FREEMAN caused Temple-Inland to pay approximately $3.35 million for phantom timber that FIELDS claimed to have delivered; $910,000 for phantom timber that JOSEPH claimed to have delivered; $313,000 to ROGER and ANDREW CARTHERN; more than $112,000 to DAVID CARTHERN and ROBERT FRANK FERGUSON; and more than $160,000 to GEORGE TATE, all of whom shared their money with FREEMAN.

On November 2, 2009, a federal grand jury returned a 20-count indictment against FREEMAN, FIELDS, JOSEPH, ROGER CARTHERN, ANDREW CARTHERN, DAVID CARTHERN, FERGUSON, TATE, and CURTIS J. HART, 52, of Macon, Georgia. JOSEPH, ROGER CARTHERN, ANDREW CARTHERN, FERGUSON, and TATE all pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and agreed to cooperate in the case. FIELDS pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering, and also agreed to cooperate. The government dismissed DAVID CARTHERN and HART from the case on May 20 and July 14, 2010, respectively.

FREEMAN pleaded guilty yesterday to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering. FREEMAN could receive a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison and a fine of up to $250,000 for the wire fraud conspiracy, and a maximum sentence of 10 years in federal prison and a fine of up to approximately $3.6 million for the money laundering conspiracy. In determining FREEMAN’s actual sentence, the court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.

Sentencing is scheduled for January 13, 2010, at 10:30 a.m., before Senior United States District Judge Robet L. Vining in Room 303 of the United States Courthouse in Rome, Georgia. Sentencing dates for the co-defendants have not yet been set.

This case is being investigated by special agents of the FBI.

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Former Polk County Police Officer Sentenced to Federal Prison for Obstructing an Undercover Investigation

MARK HOWELL SPARKS, 40, of Felton, Georgia, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Harold L. Murphy to serve over two years in federal prison on charges of obstruction of justice, tampering with a witness and possessing a vehicle with an altered vehicle identification number (VIN).

“Because this defendant was a police officer, he was privy to confidential law enforcement information about an ongoing investigation into ‘chop shop’ activity in Polk County,” said United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates. “During the investigation, he encouraged an informant to conceal his friends’ involvement in that chop shop activity. Sparks then obstructed the investigation and placed the informant in danger by alerting the targets of the investigation that the informant was recording conversations on behalf of law enforcement officials. Instead of enforcing the law, Sparks broke it, and now he is going to prison.”

SPARKS was sentenced to two years and six months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to perform 100 hours of community service. SPARKS was convicted of these charges on July 22, 2010, after a four-day trial.

According to United States Attorney Yates, the charges and other information presented in court: In June 2008, while SPARKS was employed as a detective with the Polk County Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Polk County Police Department began a joint investigation into motor vehicle theft and chop shop activity in Polk County. In an effort to protect SPARKS' friends who SPARKS knew were involved in chop shop activity, SPARKS encouraged an informant not to provide information about SPARKS' friends to the agents conducting the investigation. In addition, SPARKS told his friends that the informant was cooperating with law enforcement and was wearing a recording device. SPARKS told his friends that they should not talk to the informant because he was recording conversations. The informant provided much of the detailed information about SPARKS’ criminal activity which expanded the investigation, and the informant testified at length at SPARKS’ trial.

After he was arrested, SPARKS admitted that he knowingly drove a pick up truck with an altered vehicle identification number, as the informant had told investigators.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Polk County Police Department, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bartow County Drug Task Force.

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Firearms Industry Matches ATF Reward in Norcross Firearms Theft

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) – the trade association for the firearms industry – has announced a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for a September 17 firearms theft at American Classic Marksman, a federally licensed firearms retailer in Norcross, Ga. The incident has triggered a joint investigation, being conducted by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Gwinnett County Police Department. The NSSF reward offer matches a $5,000 reward offered by the ATF.

Steve Sanetti, president of the NSSF, said, "Our matching reward offer will hopefully help assist ATF and local law enforcement in solving this crime against a federally licensed firearms dealer and lead to the swift recovery of stolen firearms before they can enter the illegal underground black market where they can be misused to commit violent crimes."

The matching reward payment by NSSF will be granted only following payment of the initial ATF reward, which is up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for the crime.

Anyone with information is encouraged to call ATF's toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477). Callers can remain anonymous.

For any questions about the theft of these firearms, please contact ATF at the number listed above.

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ATF Offers $5K Reward for Information on Retail Gun Theft

/PRNewswire/ -- The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Atlanta Field Division today announced a reward of up to $5,000 for information leading to the arrest and conviction of those responsible for a recent firearms theft at American Classic Marksman, a federally licensed gun dealer in Norcross, Ga. The incident has triggered a joint investigation, being conducted by ATF and the Gwinnett County Police Department.

"We all have a vested interest in arresting those responsible and recovering these stolen guns," said ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeffery Pearce. "We know that in many instances stolen firearms end up in the hands of violent criminals, who use them to commit additional crimes. Law enforcement is asking for the public's assistance in removing these threats from the community."

The burglary occurred on Sept. 17, at the business located at 5303 Peachtree Industrial Blvd., Norcross, Ga. Security cameras from within the business filmed one white male subject, make entry into the business and then exit with three firearms. The individual made entry by crawling through duct work and eventually climbing down from the vent/ceiling area of the shooting range. He exited the building through the same entry point.

Investigators are seeking the public's help with identifying the subject involved and providing information on the location of any or all of the stolen firearms. Anyone with information is encouraged to call ATF's toll-free, 24-hour hotline at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477). Callers can remain anonymous.

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Two Dalton Meth Dealers Sent to Federal Prison

RICHIE WILLIS, 23, of Dalton, Georgia, was sentenced October 28 by United States Senior District Judge Robert L. Vining, Jr., on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking crime. Two other defendants have been charged in relation to the conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Northwest Georgia.

“These defendants were involved in distributing methamphetamine, a highly addictive and dangerous drug, and they are rightfully going to prison,” said United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates. “Drugs and guns are a particularly dangerous combination, so defendant Willis received a longer sentence.”

WILLIS was sentenced to 10 years in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. On October 7, 2010, co-defendant DEBORAH McCULLOUGH, 42, of Cedartown, Georgia was sentenced to five years and eight months in prison to be followed by five years of supervised release on charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. WILLIS and McCULLOUGH pleaded guilty to the charges on July 13, 2010.

Co-defendant ANGEL LOPEZ, also known as “Bobby Moss,” 23, of Dalton, Georgia, pleaded guilty on October 26, 2010, to charges of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, and is awaiting sentencing.

The defendants were indicted on multiple drug-related counts on February 9, 2010. LOPEZ, WILLIS, and McCULLOUGH were indicted on one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine. LOPEZ and WILLIS were also indicted on one count of possessing with intent to distribute methamphetamine. In addition, WILLIS was indicted on one count of possessing a firearm in relation to a drug trafficking offense.

According to United States Attorney Yates, the charges and other information presented in court: In late July 2009, a source informed Special Agents of the FBI that DEBORAH McCULLOUGH was selling methamphetamine in the Dalton, Georgia, area. Over the next several months, the FBI, through the source, made controlled purchases of methamphetamine from McCULLOUGH.

In November 2009, the agents approached McCULLOUGH and informed her of their investigation of her drug trafficking activities. McCULLOUGH agreed to cooperate and identified RICHIE WILLIS as her supplier. McCULLOUGH also made several controlled purchases of methamphetamine from WILLIS totaling almost half a pound of methamphetamine. On December 4, 2009, as WILLIS was driving to meet McCULLOUGH for another drug deal, the police stopped WILLIS’s car. WILLIS had two ounces of methamphetamine hidden in his clothing, and a loaded handgun in the center console of his car. After WILLIS was arrested, the agents executed a search warrant on his apartment in Dalton, where they found one and a half pounds of methamphetamine, multiple firearms, and almost $14,000 in cash. WILLIS cooperated with law enforcement officers following his arrest, and identified ANGEL LOPEZ, also known as “Bobby Moss,” as his sole supplier of methamphetamine. LOPEZ, through WILLIS, McCULLOUGH, and other drug dealers, has been accused of distributing dozens of pounds of methamphetamine in the Dalton area over the last three years, and has been charged in related state cases.

LOPEZ is scheduled to be sentenced on January 6, 2011, before United States Senior District Judge Robert L. Vining. LOPEZ could receive a maximum sentence of life in prison and a fine of up to $4,000,000. In determining the actual sentence, the Court will consider the United States Sentencing Guidelines, which are not binding but provide appropriate sentencing ranges for most offenders.

The U.S. Attorney's Office in Atlanta recommends parents and children learn about the dangers of drugs at the following website: www.justthinktwice.com.

This case was investigated by special agents of the FBI and the FBI’s Safe Street Task Force.

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Three Former Fulton County Jailers Sentenced for Obstructing Federal Civil Rights Investigations

Three former Fulton County Jail detention officers were sentenced today (October 28) by Senior United States District Judge J. Owen Forrester for obstructing federal civil rights investigations. CURTIS JEROME BROWN, 42, of Lithonia, Georgia, and MITNEE MARKETTE JONES, 47, of Atlanta, were sentenced to federal prison for lying to a federal grand jury, making false statements to a special agent of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and writing false incident reports with the intent to hinder a federal investigation. DERONTAY ANTON LANGFORD, 35, of Atlanta, was ordered to home confinement as part of a probation sentence for his efforts to obstruct one of the investigations.

United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said of the convictions, “Today the court sentenced three detention officers for obstructing a federal civil rights investigation of inmate abuse in the Fulton County Jail. These convictions and sentences affirm our strong commitment to pursue justice even when those who are sworn to uphold the law attempt to hide the truth.”

Brian D. Lamkin, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta, said, “The actions of former Fulton County Detention Officers Brown, Jones and Langford are an erosion of the public's ability to trust the law enforcement personnel who have taken an oath to protect against such egregious, criminal activity. The FBI remains highly committed to investigate such corruption by all government officials, so that the members of the public can continue to trust in the vast majority of law enforcement officials whom respect their oath and are committed to public service. Anyone with information regarding public corruption should contact the Atlanta office of the FBI.”

Fulton County Chief Deputy Sheriff Jimmy Carter said, “We fully support investigations and prosecutions of persons connected to incidents involving brutality by employees of the Fulton County Sheriff's Office who are sworn to protect and serve fairly. We have zero tolerance for behavior that results in the mistreatment of citizens who come in contact with the Sheriff's Office. Employees are expected to be truthful in reporting and submissions of reports of their actions, investigations, and other related activities.”

BROWN, who was convicted on the charges by a jury on April 16, 2010, was sentenced to two years and three months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to perform 120 hours of community service. JONES, who was convicted on the charges by a jury on January 21, 2010, was sentenced to one year and three months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release, and was ordered to perform 120 hours of community service. LANGFORD entered a negotiated guilty plea to his charges on September 22, 2009, and cooperated with the federal investigation. LANGFORD was sentenced to four months of home confinement as part of three years of probation.

According to United States Attorney Yates and the information presented in court: On August 11, 2007, a Fulton County Jail inmate disrupted a count of inmates by shouting a crude comment to a female detention officer. BROWN handcuffed the inmate behind the inmate’s back and assisted moving the inmate to an administrative segregation area of the jail. While walking the inmate in a hallway that was not monitored by a video camera, BROWN stopped the inmate, admonished him, and hit the inmate. BROWN’s use of force caused the inmate to bleed from his mouth and left blood on the floor and wall. A fellow detention officer was shocked by BROWN’s behavior and immediately reported the conduct to a superior officer. Following the incident, BROWN wrote a memorandum to a supervisor that contained a false account of the incident.

The evidence in the case showed that later, in 2008, BROWN, JONES, and LANGFORD, along with and another detention officer, filed false incident reports omitting that jail staff entered the cell of an inmate and engaged in a physical altercation with the inmate a short time before the inmate was found unresponsive on the floor of his cell. According to trial testimony, BROWN, JONES, and LANGFORD entered the inmate’s cell and used force to subdue the inmate because the inmate was being loud and banging on his cell door and window. Approximately an hour after the group entered the cell, the inmate was discovered unresponsive and not breathing on the cell floor. The inmate was transported to Grady Hospital where he was pronounced dead. Court documents state that at the time of his death, the inmate was housed in the medical unit of the jail due to a mental health condition that required medication. According to the Fulton County Medical Examiner’s report, the inmate’s cause of death was “probable disrhythmia associated with acute psychotic episode and agitation.”

These cases were investigated by special agents of the FBI.

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Columbus, Ga. Sheriff's Office Celebrates Adoption of Alternative Fuels with Vehicle and Facility Tour

/PRNewswire/ -- Today, the Muscogee County Sheriff's Office is hosting a media event to celebrate its transition to clean alternative fueling. The tour will feature the county's new propane Autogas vehicles and newly implemented propane Autogas fueling station. The Sheriff's Office will give a propane Autogas fueling demonstration, offer visitors the opportunity to look under the hood of a propane Autogas vehicle, and provide information about the impact this alternative fuel will have on the community.

Muscogee County is converting 20 sheriff's vehicles from gasoline to propane Autogas as part of the Southeast Propane Autogas Development Program, an ARRA-funded alternative fuel project that will upfit a total of about 1,200 vehicles from Washington, DC to Louisiana. Currently, the county has 16 vehicles running on propane Autogas. The Sheriff's Office also plans to convert additional vehicles to Autogas beyond those funded through the grant Program as part of their alternative fuel initiative.

"We had been exploring alternatives to gasoline, and the opportunity to participate in this Program came at the perfect time and allowed us to jumpstart our clean fuel program," says Muscogee County Sheriff John Darr. "Using propane Autogas in our Sheriff's vehicles is beneficial for our community – it reduces harmful emissions, it's domestically produced, and it's going to save our county money on fuel costs."

The vehicle and facility tour will be held today, October 22 at 12:30 p.m. at 1011 Cusseta Road, Columbus, Ga. The event is open press, and local environmental, automotive and economic development organizations are encouraged to attend. Please contact Lt. Gifford Anthony at the Sheriff's Office at (706) 653-4225 if you would like to attend or learn more about the event.

Propane Autogas is the third most widely used fuel in the world, behind only gasoline and diesel. Yet with more than 14.6 million propane Autogas vehicles in the world, the United States drives less than 2 percent of them. "Alternative fuels are an undeniable part of the nation's future, and at Muscogee County we are excited to be a part of that evolution now," Sheriff Darr adds.

Force 911, a full-service law enforcement vehicle outfitter and a certified conversion center for the Program, is performing the vehicle conversions for Muscogee County. Alliance AutoGas – with founding partners Blossman Gas (the largest independent propane supply company in the nation) and American Alternative Fuel (alternative fuel vehicle systems specialists) – is training technicians to perform the vehicle conversions for the Program, installing the refueling stations and supplying the propane Autogas fuel.

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Waycross Woman Pleads Guilty to $2 Million Embezzlement and Identity Theft Scheme

SANDRA L. COOMBS, 39, from Waycross, Georgia pleaded guilty yesterday in federal district court before Chief United States District Judge Lisa Godbey Wood to one count of bank fraud and two counts of aggravated identity theft in connection with a scheme to steal over $2 million from her former employer.

United States Attorney Edward J. Tarver said, “This defendant betrayed her employer by using her position of trust to steal over $2 million. Ms. Coombs also stole names and identities of others to commit her fraud. This defendant’s unlawful conduct will send her to federal prison for a lengthy sentence.”

According to the evidence presented during Ms. Coombs’ guilty plea hearing, from 2005 through 2009 Coombs worked as the office manager for Ace Pole Company, a Blackshear business specializing in the production and sale of wooden utility poles. Coombs used her position as office manager to systematically steal over $2 million during a more than four-year time period. To accomplish her scheme, Coombs forged the names of Ace Pole Company officers on over 200 checks written from the company’s Patterson Bank account. To hide the scheme, Coombs falsified company records to make it appear that the forged checks she made payable to herself were instead payments made to vendors of the company. Coombs’ fraudulent activities came to light during an unrelated drug trafficking investigation, when Pierce County law enforcement uncovered the suspicious money transfers in and out of Ms. Coombs’ bank account.

Coombs now faces a 30 year maximum prison sentence for bank fraud, and two-year consecutive prison terms on her aggravated identity theft convictions. A sentencing date has not been set. Coombs was again remanded to U.S. Marshal custody following her guilty plea.

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Atlanta Man Sentenced for Seeking Sex with an 8-Year-Old Girl

MARK MICHAEL STEVENS, 43, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced today to 11 years in federal prison on a federal charge of attempting to entice a minor to engage in sex.

Sally Quillian Yates, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, said, “This defendant sought to have sex with an 8-year-old girl—not 18, but 8. His criminal conduct serves as a chilling but important reminder that child predators remain a threat in our community and that parents, teachers, and loved ones must remain watchful for our children, especially when they are online.”

United States District Court Judge Timothy C. Batten, Sr., sentenced BOWDEN to 11 years in federal prison, to be followed by a lifetime of supervised release.

According to United States Attorney Yates and the evidence in the public record in this case: In August 2009, STEVENS, an integrated technologies (“I.T.”) manager at Bull Realty in Atlanta at the time of the offense, met the mother of the 8-year-old in an online chat room known as “dad&daughtersex.” Of the course of several days, STEVENS, using the moniker “WickeDad.” and the mother—actually an undercover FBI task force officer—discussed how STEVENS could have sexual access to the mother’s daughter. STEVENS described in graphic detail what he hoped to do with the young girl and claimed that this would not be his first such experience.

STEVENS eventually sent photos of himself, clothed and unclothed, and provided a phone number so that he could speak with the mother and confirm that she and her daughter were “real.” During the phone calls, STEVENS again discussed the illegal sex acts he intended to perform with the girl.

On September 2, 2009, STEVENS traveled to J. Christopher’s Restaurant in Sandy Springs, where he and the mother had agreed to meet before retiring to the mother’s apartment so that he could have sex with her daughter. He was arrested as he stepped out of his car and has remained in custody ever since.

This case was investigated by agents and officers of the Atlanta Safe Child Task Force, which is led by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Atlanta Division.

Assistant United States Attorney Robert McBurney prosecuted the case.

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Hunters Urged to Follow Firearms Safety 10 Commandments

For the 2009-2010 hunting season, Georgia reported 45 hunting incidents, 14 of which involved firearms. With the upcoming Oct. 16 opening of firearms deer hunting season, hunters are encouraged to review the ‘Ten Commandments of Firearms Safety’ before heading to the woods.

“Ultimately, each hunter is responsible for keeping themselves and others safe while pursuing deer this hunting season,” says Walter Lane, Hunter Development Program Manager of the Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources Division. “This includes respecting all firearms and being absolutely certain of their target.”

The ‘Ten Commandments of Firearms Safety’ is an excellent safety checklist, covered in all hunter education courses and well worth a review by any hunter who utilizes firearms to hunt. The commandments are as follows:

One:  Control the direction of the firearm’s muzzle. Keep the safety on and fingers off the trigger at all times until ready to shoot.

Two:  Identify the target and what is beyond it before shooting. Know the identifying features of the game hunted and be absolutely certain that what you are aiming at is that game.

Three:  Treat every firearm as if it is loaded.

Four:  Be sure the barrel and action are clear of obstructions and that only the proper size ammunition is used in the firearm.

Five:  Always unload a firearm when it is not in use, leave the actions open, and carry empty firearms in a case to and from shooting areas.

Six:  Never aim a firearm at anything that you do not intend to shoot. Avoid all horseplay with a firearm.

Seven:  Never climb a tree or fence, or jump a ditch or log, with a loaded firearm. Never pull a firearm towards you by the muzzle.

Eight:  Never shoot a bullet at a flat, hard surface or at water. Make sure backstops are adequate during target practice.

Nine:  Store firearms and ammunition separately and beyond the reach of children and careless adults.

Ten:  Avoid all alcoholic beverages and drugs before and during shooting.

For more information on firearms safety, visit www.gohuntgeorgia.com or contact the Wildlife Resources Division’s Hunter Education office at (770) 388-0045.

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Halloween Safety Tips from Peachtree City Police Department

Peachtree City Police Department would like to remind everyone that Halloween is on Sunday, October 31, 2010, and that while this event can be fun for everyone, some safety precautions should be made. We wish everyone a safe and fun Halloween.

BEFORE HALLOWEEN:

Plan costumes that are bright and reflective. Make sure that shoes fit well and that costumes are short enough to prevent tripping, entanglement or contact with flame.

Consider adding reflective tape or striping to costumes and trick-or-treat bags for greater visibility.

Secure emergency identification (name, address, phone number) discreetly within Halloween attire or on a bracelet.

Because a mask can limit or block eyesight, consider non-toxic and hypoallergenic makeup or a decorative hat as a safe alternative.

When using costumes, wigs and accessories, use only those with a label indicating they are flame resistant.

Think twice before using simulated knives, guns or swords. If such props must be used, be certain they do not appear authentic and are soft and flexible to prevent injury.

Obtain flashlights with fresh batteries for all children and their escorts. Plan ahead to use only battery powered lanterns or chemical light sticks in place of candles in decorations and costumes.

Teach children their home phone number and to how call 9-1-1 if they have an emergency or become lost.

Review with your children the principle of "stop-drop-roll", should their clothes catch on fire.

Openly discuss appropriate and inappropriate behavior at Halloween time.

Consider purchasing individually packaged healthy food alternatives (or safe non-food treats) for those who visit your home.

Take extra effort to eliminate tripping hazards on your porch and walkway.

Check around your property for flower pots, low tree limbs, support wires or garden hoses that may prove hazardous to young children rushing from house to house.

Learn or review CPR skills to aid someone who is choking or having a heart attack.

Consider safe party guidelines when hosting an adult or office party.

BEFORE NIGHTFALL ON HALLOWEEN

A good meal prior to parties and trick-or-treating will discourage youngsters from filling up on Halloween treats.

Consider fire safety when decorating. Do not overload electrical outlets with holiday lighting or special effects, and do not block exit doors.

While children can help with the fun of designing a jack o' lantern, if sharp utensils are used, leave the carving to adults.

Always keep jack o' lanterns and hot electric lamps far away from drapes, decorations, flammable materials or areas where children and pets will be standing or walking.

Plan and review with your children the route and behavior which is acceptable to you. Do not permit children to bicycle, roller-blade or skateboard. Agree on a specific time when revelers must return home.

Confine, segregate or otherwise prepare household pets for an evening of frightful sights and sounds. Be sure that all dogs and cats are wearing collars and proper identification tags. Consult your veterinarian for further advice.

Remind all household drivers to remain cautious and drive slowly throughout the community.

Adult partygoers should establish and reward a designated driver.

WHEN TRICK-OR-TREATING

A parent or responsible adult should always accompany young children on their neighborhood rounds.

Remind trick-or-treaters that by using a flashlight, they can see and be seen by others.

Stay in a group, walk slowly and communicate where you are going.

Only trick-or-treat in well known neighborhoods at homes that have a porch light on.

Remain on well-lit streets and use sidewalks when available.

If no sidewalks are available, walk at the farthest edge of the roadway facing traffic.

Never cut across yards.

Never enter a stranger's home or car for a treat.

Obey all traffic and pedestrian regulations.

Always walk. Never run across a street.

Remove any mask or item that will limit eyesight before crossing a street or driveway.

Don't assume the right of way. Motorists may have trouble seeing trick-or-treaters. Just because one car stops, doesn't mean others will.

Never consume unwrapped food items or open beverages that may be offered.

No treats are to be eaten until they are thoroughly checked by an adult at home.

Law Enforcement authorities should be notified immediately of any suspicious or unlawful activity.

AFTER TRICK-OR-TREATING:

Wait until children are home to sort and check treats. Though tampering is rare, a responsible adult should closely examine all treats and throw away any spoiled, unwrapped or suspicious items.

When in doubt throw it out.

Try to apportion treats for the days following Halloween.

Although sharing is encouraged, make sure items that can cause choking (such as hard candies), are given only to those of an appropriate age.

The Peachtree City Police Department wishes you a safe and happy Halloween!

The Poison Control National Hotline number is

1-800-222-1222.

"Wig Wearing Bandits" Strike Again

Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Brian D. Lamkin, FBI Atlanta, requests the assistance of the public in identifying and locating two armed bank robbers responsible for teh September 30 robbery of the Chase Bank, located at 1250 Tech Drive, Norcross, Georgia. A third individual, serving as the getaway driver for the two, is also being sought by authorities. These individuals are believed to be responsible for a series of recent takeover-style armed bank robberies within the metro Atlanta, Georgia area wherein the robbers would often be wearing shoulder-length black wigs.

On Thursday, September 30, 2010, at approximately 12:40 noon, two black males wearing masks entered the Chase Bank, located at 1250 Tech Drive, Norcross, Georgia. Customers were forced to the floor while one of the robbers stood by with a long weapon/machine pistol type firearm. The other robber approached the teller station and demanded money. The robbers did not, however, obtain any money and were observed departing in a gold colored Kia Spectra, recovered by law enforcement officers in an area behind the victim bank. The vehicle had been reported stolen in Dekalb County, Georgia on September 29, 2010.

As a result of today’s robbery, Wells Fargo has authorized a reward of up to $25,000 for information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individuals responsible for these takeover robberies.

The robbers are described as follows:

* Robber #1 is described as a Black male, 20-30 years in age, 5’8”-5’10” tall
* Robber #2 is described as a Black male, 20-25 years in age. 6’0” tall

The driver of the vehicle was also described as being a black male.

Prior similar area robberies include:

* 7/27/10—Wachovia, Clairmont Rd, Atlanta/Dekalb County, GA. Two black males, wigs, guns, takeover style; 10:44 a.m.
* 7/30/10—Chase Bank, 5552 Chamblee Dunwoody Road, Dunwoody, GA. Four males entered the bank, demanded money; two of the males were armed with pistols, and a third was armed with an assault rifle; described as black males, wearing dark clothing and ski masks; ranged in height from 5’5” – 5’10” tall; 10:15 a.m.
* 8/16 /10—Wachovia Bank, 3374 Holcomb Bridge Rd., (Holcomb Corners) Norcross, GA. Two black males, wearing wigs, displaying guns, take-over style robbery; 10:20 a.m.
* 8/20/10—Chase Bank, 1050 E. Piedmont Rd. (Piedmont Commons), Marietta, GA. Two black males, armed takeover-style robbery, wearing masks, no wigs; 1:11 p.m.
* 8/25/10—Wachovia Bank, 1280 Dogwood Rd, Conyers, GA. Two black males, wearing wigs, displaying guns, takeover robbery; 10:43 a.m.
* 8/26/10 – BB&T, Covington, GA. One black male, takeover-style robbery, stolen silver Lexus recovered.
* 8/27/10—Chase Bank, 2079 S. Hairston Rd. (Hairston Crossing) Decatur, GA. Two black males, guns displayed, takeover-style robbery, no wigs; 10:15 a.m.
* 9/8/10—Wachovia Bank, located at 3520 Centerville Highway, Snellville, Georgia

Anyone with information regarding this matter should contact the Atlanta office FBI at tel. (404) 679-9000.

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Deaths prompt CPSC, FDA warning on infant sleep positioners

The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) today warned consumers to stop using infant sleep positioners. Over the past 13 years, CPSC and the FDA have received 12 reports of infants between the ages of 1 month and 4 four months who died when they suffocated in sleep positioners or became trapped and suffocated between a sleep positioner and the side of a crib or bassinet.

Most of the infants suffocated after rolling from a side to stomach position. In addition to the reported deaths, CPSC has received dozens of reports of infants who were placed on their backs or sides in sleep positioners, only to be found later in potentially hazardous positions within or next to the sleep positioners.

“The deaths and dangerous situations resulting from the use of infant sleep positioners are a serious concern to CPSC,” said CPSC Chairman Inez Tenenbaum. “We urge parents and caregivers to take our warning seriously and stop using these sleep positioners, so that children can have a safer sleep.”

The two main types of infant sleep positioners are flat mats with side bolsters or inclined (wedge) mats with side bolsters.

Flat Mat Infant Sleep Positioner Inclined Wedge Infant Sleep Positioner
FLAT MAT INCLINED/WEDGE

Both types of sleep positioners typically claim to help keep infants on their backs and reduce the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). The FDA has never cleared an infant sleep positioner to prevent or reduce the risk of SIDS. In addition, CPSC and the FDA are unaware of any scientific studies demonstrating that infant positioners prevent SIDS or are proven to prevent suffocation or other life-threatening harm.

“To date, there is no scientifically sound evidence that infant sleep positioners prevent SIDS,” said Dr. Joshua Sharfstein, FDA Principal Deputy Commissioner and a pediatrician. “We want to make sure parents, health care professionals, and childcare providers understand the potential risk of suffocation and stop using infant sleep positioners.”

Sleep positioners also typically claim to do one or all of the following: aid in food digestion to ease colic or the symptoms of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD); and prevent flat head syndrome (plagiocephaly). In light of the new safety data, FDA believes any benefit from using these devices to ease GERD or prevent plagiocephaly is outweighed by the risk of suffocation.

CPSC and the FDA are warning parents and child care providers to:

* STOP using sleep positioners. Using a positioner to hold an infant on his or her back or side for sleep is dangerous and unnecessary.
* NEVER put pillows, infant sleep positioners, comforters, or quilts under a baby or in a crib.
* ALWAYS place an infant on his or her back at night and during nap time. To reduce the risk of SIDS, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends placing infants to sleep on their backs and not their sides.


The American Academy of Pediatrics does not support the use of any sleep positioner to prevent SIDS.

Manufacturers of infant sleep positioners with medical claims that have not been reviewed by the FDA should stop marketing those products until they submit, and the FDA clears, appropriate premarket review submissions, including necessary safety and effectiveness data.

FDA has informed manufacturers of cleared devices of the agency's serious concern and has requested that they submit clinical data showing the benefits of their products outweigh the risk of suffocation or other serious harm.

Prompt reporting of adverse events can help the FDA and CPSC identify and better understand the risks associated with infant sleep positioners. If you have had a problem with an infant sleep positioner, the agencies encourage you to file a report through FDA’s MedWatch program, at http://www.fda.gov/Safety/MedWatch/HowToReport/default.htm.

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