Former DeKalb Police Lieutenant Indicted for Bribery

WILLIE DAREN DURRETT, 45, of Atlanta, was arraigned today (March 7) before United States Magistrate Judge C. Christopher Hagy. DURRETT faces federal charges of accepting bribes in return for taking official action as a sergeant, and later as a lieutenant, with the DeKalb County Police Department. Co-defendant DONALD E. FRANK, who was previously indicted for accepting bribes while he served as deputy chief of police for DeKalb County, is also named in the indictment and faces the same charges. AMIN BUDHWANI previously pleaded guilty to paying bribes to FRANK.

United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said of the case, “Our community expects and deserves police officers who will serve the citizens and not sell their badge to someone holding out cash. In this case, the officer placed his personal and financial interests ahead of the public he was sworn to serve. Combatting public corruption will continue to be a top priority for this office.”

Brian D. Lamkin, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Field Office, stated, “The FBI is fully prepared to undertake these types of public corruption investigations and fully understands the impact that these types of activities can have, if left unchecked, on the proper operation of a government or police agency. The public deserves better than the actions of this officer and is reminded that the FBI should be contacted with regard to any information involving police or government corruption.”

“I support the continued efforts of federal authorities to efface public corruption,” said DeKalb County Police Chief William O’Brien. “Willie Durrett resigned from the DeKalb County Police Department weeks before this indictment and prior to our agency having the opportunity to take disciplinary action. It is reprehensible that this former lieutenant chose to violate the law instead of upholding it. It is acts such as this that undermine law enforcement's efforts to maintain public trust.”

According to United States Attorney Yates, the charges, and other information presented in court: DURRETT accepted bribes from BUDHWANI on three separate occasions in 2007 and 2008. DURRETT resigned this past Monday.

Each charge carries a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000.00. 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.

DURRETT and FRANK were indicted by a federal grand jury on March 1, 2011. BUDHWANI was indicted by a federal grand jury on May 18, 2010, and pleaded guilty on June 1, 2010.

Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

This case is being investigated by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

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Former Fulton County Sheriff's Deputy Sentenced to Prison for Corruption and Drug Charges

ANTHONY C. ATWATER, 33, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced today (January 24) by United States District Judge J. Owen Forrester to serve six years in federal prison on corruption and drug charges.

United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said, "While dressed in his uniform, this former law enforcement officer sold out his badge to people he knew as drug dealers, and chose to protect them rather than the citizens. Any sworn officer who thinks they can abandon their oath and become a criminal in police clothing should know this: Your betrayal makes you a criminal ready for federal prison."

FBI Atlanta Special Agent in Charge Brian D. Lamkin said, "Having the public's trust is paramount in order for the criminal justice system to work effectively. It is for this reason that the FBI makes such public corruption matters a priority. While the public can be reassured that the vast majority of law enforcement personnel do uphold their sworn oaths of office with great vigor, those that choose to stray down a similar path as that of Atwater can expect a similar fate."

IRS-Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Reginael D. McDaniel said of the case, "Public Safety Officers hold positions of trust in the eyes of the public and violation of this trust can send damaging ripple effects throughout the community. Today's sentencing demonstrates the government s determination to restore and ensure that trust."

ATWATER was sentenced to six years in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release, and ordered to perform 80 hours of community service. ATWATER pleaded guilty to the charges on July 21, 2010.

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

At today's sentencing hearing, prosecutors told the Court that after ATWATER's arrest, Special Agents with the Federal Bureau of Investigation investigated a report that ATWATER illegally searched the home of a Fulton County resident while driving a marked Fulton County Sheriff's Department vehicle and wearing a Fulton County Sheriff's Department uniform. ATWATER incorrectly told the resident that he had an arrest warrant for an individual inside of the residence. However, he refused to show the arrest warrant to the resident upon request. ATWATER then proceeded to enter and search the residence and again refused to show or leave a copy of the purported arrest warrant with the resident as he left the residence.

This case was investigated by Special Agents of Federal Bureau of Investigation and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation.

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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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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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Former Atlanta Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Public Corruption and Drug Trafficking Charges

LUCIUS T. SOLOMON, III, 31, of Atlanta, formerly an officer with the Atlanta Police Department, pleaded guilty yesterday in federal district court to corruption and drug charges.

United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates said, “Instead of protecting and serving the people of this community from the scourge of the illegal drug trade, this former police officer took money to protect the very drug dealers he had sworn to pursue and arrest. There is no greater breach of a police officer’s oath than to actively participate in criminal conduct that so powerfully harms the community.”

Brian D. Lamkin, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Atlanta Office, stated, “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 added, “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—it does send a strong message to those who would stray from their mission to uphold and enforce the law.”

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.

SOLOMON was indicted in March 2010; he pleaded guilty today to corruption and drug offenses and could receive a maximum of 20 years in prison on the corruption charge, and a maximum of life imprisonment on the drug charge. SOLOMON faces fines of up to $4,250,000. 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.

Sentencing is scheduled for November 9, 2010, at 9:30 a.m., before United States District Judge Richard W. Story.

This case is being investigated by special agents of the FBI and Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigations Division and the Atlanta Police Department.

Assistant United States Attorneys Jeffrey Brown, Elizabeth Hathaway, and Zahra Karinshak are prosecuting the case.

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.

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Former Police Officer Convicted of Witness Tampering and Obstruction of Justice

A jury in federal district court has returned a guilty verdict against MARK HOWELL SPARKS, 40, of Felton, Georgia on charges of witness tampering, obstruction of justice, and possession of a motor vehicle with an altered vehicle identification number (VIN).

“The defendant was a police officer who encouraged a witness to withhold information about criminal activity from law enforcement authorities,” said United States Attorney Sally Quillian Yates. “He also obstructed a criminal investigation by tipping off targets of the investigation that the witness was wearing a recording device. The defendant was trying to protect friends who he knew were involved in criminal activity. But the citizens of Polk County employed the defendant as a police officer to protect them from the criminals, not for him to protect the criminals from the police. The defendant now faces time in federal prison for tampering with a witness and obstructing justice.”

According to United States Attorney Yates, the charges and other information presented in court, in June and July 2008, SPARKS was the supervisor of the detective squad at the Polk County Police Department when an investigation into chop shop activity in Polk County was opened by the FBI and the Polk County Police Department. SPARKS was directly involved in the investigation. SPARKS was personally acquainted with several of the potential targets of the investigation. Early on in the investigation SPARKS tipped off an individual that a search warrant was going to be executed at his residence and that detectives were looking for vehicles with altered vehicle identification numbers that the individual had sold to others. SPARKS later convinced the same individual to talk to FBI agents and Polk County detectives about the primary target of the investigation being involved in chop shop activity, but at the same time the individual was to withhold information he knew about SPARKS’ friends who were also operating chop shops. SPARKS did so in an effort to derail the investigation against his friends. Based upon Sparks’ encouragement, the individual told the FBI and Polk County detectives about chop shop activity committed by one specific target, but intentionally withheld information about other targets.

The individual agreed to wear a recording device in an effort to gather evidence against the one target about whom he provided information. Later SPARKS obstructed the investigation by telling other targets of the investigation that the individual was recording conversations and that they should not talk to him. When the individual learned that SPARKS was telling others that the individual was cooperating and wearing a recording device, the individual told FBI agents and Polk County detectives the truth about SPARKS’ efforts to obstruct the investigation.

Also evidence was presented that established that during the time that SPARKS was a police officer he knowingly drove a stolen Chevrolet pick up truck that had an altered VIN plate. When SPARKS was arrested on October 6, 2009, he confessed to driving the pick up truck knowing that it was stolen and knowing that it had an altered VIN. SPARKS resigned from the Polk County Police Department in October, 2009.

The jury acquitted SPARKS on charges that he maintained a chop shop and possessed motor vehicle parts with obliterated or removed VINs.

SPARKS was indicted on these charges on March 23, 2010.

SPARKS could receive a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $250,000 on each of the witness tampering and possession of a motor vehicle with an altered VIN charges and a maximum sentence of five years in prison and a $250,000 on the obstruction of justice charge. Sentencing is scheduled for Friday October 1, 2010 at 1:30 p.m. before United States District Judge Harold L. Murphy. 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.

This case was investigated by special agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, police officers with the Polk County Police Department, and law enforcement officers with the Northwest Georgia Criminal Enterprise Task Force.

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Producer of Child Pornography Sentenced to Over 10 Years

TERRILL MARION CRANE, 47, of Atlanta, Georgia, was sentenced May 29 by United States District Judge Thomas W. Thrash, Jr. to serve over 10 years in federal prison for producing child pornography.

United States Attorney David E. Nahmias said, “This defendant sexually exploited many young girls in Atlanta over the course of almost a decade. His crimes are unforgivable, as is the fact that when a citizen provided strong evidence of the crimes to the Atlanta Police in 2003, the investigation was squelched and the defendant's police-sergeant wife was tipped off and destroyed evidence. We commend the Atlanta Police officers who later advised the FBI about the case, and the FBI for promptly bringing to justice this serial sexual exploiter of children. He is off the streets and where he belongs - in federal prison for many years.”

CRANE was sentenced to 10 years, 1 month in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. CRANE pleaded guilty to charge of producing child pornography on January 22, 2009.

According to United States Attorney Nahmias and the information presented in court: Beginning in 1999, CRANE approached numerous young girls in the Atlanta area and attempted to solicit them for sexual favors in exchange for cash. In most cases, CRANE took photos or directed photos to be taken of the sexual activity. In 2003, CRANE's wife, who was then a Sergeant with the Atlanta Police Department, got a call from an unidentified person at APD Headquarters advising that APD had photographs of her husband in the sexual activity. CRANE's wife said she found and burned some of the photographs. Even after that, CRANE’s sexual activity with young females, continued. In October 2007, APD officers advised the FBI of photographic evidence involving 11 girls, most of them middle school age, which had been provided to APD by a film development store in 2000.

After the FBI agents began investigating the case, and with the assistance of the APD, on November 20, 2007, FBI agents executed a federal search warrant for CRANE's Atlanta residence on Beecher Road. Agents found undeveloped film, including some from disposable cameras, later shown to be CRANE engaged in sexual activity with the girls, including two additional girls, and nude photos of some of the girls alone. Some of the girls in the photos found at CRANE's residence have still not been identified. CRANE claimed to agents that some of the girls in the photographs were 20 years old, but several of the identified victims were minors at the time of the sexual activity and photographs and others appear to be minors. Some of the photos depicting young girls seized from CRANE's residence are identical to some of the photographs initially provided to APD in 2000.

Anyone with victim information is asked to call the FBI at 404-679-9000.

This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In February 2006, the Attorney General launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney's Offices around the country, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

This case was investigated by Special Agents of the FBI with assistance from the Atlanta Police Department.

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Forty-Eight Children Recovered in Operation Cross Country III

During the past week, the FBI joined our law enforcement partners in a three-day national enforcement action as part of the Innocence Lost National Initiative. This operation, known as Operation Cross Country III, included enforcement operations in 29 cities across the country and led to the recovery of 48 children being prostituted domestically. Additionally, 571 criminals were arrested on a combination of state and federal charges for the domestic trafficking of children for prostitution and solicitation.

“We continue to pursue those who exploit our nation's children,” said FBI Director Robert S. Mueller, III. “We may not be able to return their innocence but we can remove them from this cycle of abuse and violence.”

In the spring of 2003, the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division, in partnership with the Child Exploitation-Obscenity Section (CEOS) of the Department of Justice and the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC), formed the Innocence Lost National Initiative to address the growing problem of children forced into prostitution. This program brings state and federal law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and social service providers all from around the country to NCMEC, where the groups are trained together. In addition, CEOS has reinforced the tr aining by assigning prosecutors to help bring cases in those cities plagued by child prostitution. To date, the 32 Innocence Lost Task Forces and Working Groups have recovered 670 children. The investigations and subsequent convictions have resulted in lengthy sentences, including multiple 25-years-to-life sentences and the seizure of more than $3 million in assets.

The FBI would like to thank its partners who participated in Operation Cross Country and ongoing enforcement efforts, specifically:

Alsip Police Department (IL); Anaheim Police Department (CA); Anchorage Police Department (AK); Ann Arbor Police Department (MI); Atlanta Police Department (GA); Aurora Police Department (CO); Beaverton Police Department (OR); Bensenville Police Department (IL); Beverly Police Department (MA); Birmingham Police Department (AL); Boston Police Department (MA); Brandon Police Department (MS); Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; California Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation (CA); California Department of Justice (CA); Charlotte-Mecklenburg Police Department (NC); Clackamas County District Attorney’s Office (OR); Clackamas County Sheriff’s Office (OR); Clackamas County/Multnomah County Victims Assistance (OR); Clarendon Hills Police Department (IL); College Park Police Department (GA); Cook County Sheriff’s Police Department (IL); Corvallis Police Department (OR); Dallas Police Department (TX); Metropolitan Police Department (DC); Denver Police Department (CO); Des Plaines Police Department (IL); Detroit Police Department (MI); Downers Grove Police Department (IL); DuPage County Sheriff’s Police Department (IL); Elk Grove Village Police Department (IL); Essex Police Department (MA); Eugene Police Department (OR); Evanston Police Department (IL); Everett Police Department (MA); Everett Police Department (WA); Florida Attorney General’s Office (FL); Flowood Police Department (MS); Fulton County Sheriff’s Office (OH); Glenview Police Department (IL); Glenwood Police Department (IL); Gloucester Police Department (MA); Grayslake Police Department (IL); Gurnee Police Department (IL); Gwinnett County Police Department (GA); Hapeville Police Department (GA); Harris County Sheriff's Office (TX); Highland Park Police Department (IL); Hillsboro Police Department (OR); Hinds County Sheriff's Office (MS); Houston Police Department (TX); Immigration and Custom Enforcement; Internal Revenue Service; Jackson Police Department (MS); Jacksonville Sheriff's Office (FL); Janus Youth Services (OR); Kent Police Department (WA); Lake County Sheriff’s Department (IL); Lakewood Police Department (CO); Lakewood Police Department (WA); Lane County Parole (OR); Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (NV); Lifeworks NW (OR); Lima Police Department (OH); Lombard Police Department (IL); Loudoun County Sheriff’s Office (VA); Lynwood Police Department (WA); Madison Heights Police Department (MI); Malden Police Department (MA); Marblehead Police Department (MA); Massachusetts State Police Department (MA); Melrose Park Police Department (IL); Melrose Police Department (MA); Miami Dade Police Department (FL); Miami Police Department (FL); Michigan State Police (MI); Minneapolis Police Department (MN); Minnetonka Police Department (MN); Mississippi Attorney General’s Office (MS); Montgomery County Police Department (MD); Moreno Valley Police Department (CA); Mount Prospect-Arlington Heights Police Department (IL); Mount Vernon Police Department (IL); Multnomah County District Attorney’s Office (OR) ; Multnomah County Juvenile Services Division (OR); Mundelein Police Department (IL); Naperville Police Department (IL); National Center for Missing & Exploited Children; Norwood Police Department (MA); Oak Brook Police Department (IL); Oak Lawn Police Department (IL); Oakland Police Department (CA); Ontario Police Department (CA); Orange County District Attorney’s Office (CA); Oregon Department of Human Services (OR); Peabody Police Department (MA); Phoenix Police Department (AZ); Portland Police Department Victim Assistance (OR); Portland Metro Gang Task Force (OR); Miami Beach Police Department (FL); Portland Police Bureau (OR); Prince William County Police Department (VA); Rankin County Sheriff's Office (MS); Richton Pack Police Department (IL); Riverside Police Department (CA); Rosemont Police Department (IL); Sacramento County Sheriff's Office (CA); Sacramento Police Department (CA); Salem Police Department (MA); San Diego Police Department (CA); San Francisco Police Department (CA); Sandy Springs Police Department (GA); Saugus Police Department (MA); Sauk Village Police Department (IL); Seattle Police Department (WA); Sexual Assault Resource Center (OR); Skokie Police Department (IL); Southfield Police Department (MI); St. Louis Park Police Department (MN); Swampscott Police Department (MA); Tacoma Police Department (WA); Tigard Police Department (OR); Toledo Police Department (OH); United States Attorney’s Office; Walpole Police Department (MA); Washington County Sheriff's Office (OR); Washtenaw County Sheriff's Office (MI); Wayne County Sheriff's Office (MI); Wellesley Police Department (MA); Westmont Police Department (IL); Will County Sheriff’s Police Department (IL); and Willowbrook Police Department (IL).

All of the charges announced today are merely accusations, and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.

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Suspicious Package Found in Downtown Fayetteville, Georgia on November 4

A suspicious package was found at the Fayette County Republican Party Headquarters on North Glynn Street in Fayetteville, GA. Upon the package's discovery around 11 am this morning, the Fayetteville Police were contacted.

The package was addressed to Josh Bonner, Chairman of the Fayette County Republican Party and appears to have been mailed on Halloween.

The return address is listed as Michael, the Arch Angel, Divine Intervention Way in Holy Cow, JC. The return zip code reads 33666.

The K9 unit was immediately brought in to check for the presence of a bomb. At this time, there is no evidence that the lumpy package contains a bomb.

There appears to be a postal mark on the package. The U.S. Postal Service is on the way to the scene. The package will be x-rayed.

The entire building in which the Republican Party Headquarters in Fayette County is located has been evacuated.

A federal agency is currently enroute. Through an anonymous tip, we understand the person responsible for the package is known for similar actions.

Fayette Front Page Staff Report

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Third Atlanta Police Officer Pleads Guilty In Fatal Shooting of Elderly Woman

PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Justice Department announced October 30, 2008, that former Atlanta Police Department (APD) Officer Arthur Bruce Tesler pleaded guilty in federal district court to conspiring to violate the civil rights of Kathryn Johnston, 92, in connection with her fatal shooting during the execution of an illegal search warrant at her Atlanta home on Nov.21, 2006.

Tesler, of Ackworth, Ga., joins two other former APD officers who pleaded guilty last year to state and federal charges in the case. Gregg Junnier, of Woodstock, Ga., and Jason R. Smith, of Oxford, Ga., pleaded guilty in state court to voluntary manslaughter, violation of oath by a public officer, criminal solicitation and false statements, and in federal court to a civil rights conspiracy violation that resulted in the death of Ms. Johnston. Smith also pleaded guilty in state court to one count of perjury. Junnier and Smith also agreed to cooperate in a broader investigation of APD officer misconduct, which has since been completed.

"When law enforcement officers do not live up to the high ideals they typically uphold, we will not hesitate to take action," said Grace Chung Becker, Acting Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Civil Rights Division. "The Department of Justice will continue to vigorously prosecute those who cross the line and commit such violent criminal acts."

According to the information presented in court, Junnier and Smith, on several occasions while working as APD narcotics officers, made false statements in sworn affidavits to state magistrate judges in order to obtain "no knock" search warrants for residences and other locations where the officers believed illegal drugs would be found.

On the afternoon of Nov. 21, 2006, Smith, Junnier and Tesler executed such a warrant at Johnston's home, knowing that the warrant had been obtained on the basis of false information that Smith had presented to a magistrate judge. The victim, who was the only occupant of the house, fired through the door a single .38 caliber shot, which hit no one. Junnier, Smith and four other officers returned fire, hitting the victim with five or six shots, one of which was fatal.

Officers searched the home after the shooting, but found no drugs. Smith then planted in the basement of the house three bags of marijuana that the officers had seized elsewhere earlier that day. Tesler then filed a false APD incident report stating that a purchase of crack had been made at Johnston's home earlier that day and Smith submitted two bags containing crack that falsely indicated the drugs were bought by an informant at 933 Neal Street, the home of the victim. The defendants also met to fabricate a story, which they later recounted to APD homicide investigators, falsely justifying the events leading to the shooting of Kathryn Johnston.

Under Tesler's plea agreement, the parties agreed that the appropriate sentence under the advisory federal sentencing guidelines is 121 months. The federal sentence will run concurrently with Tesler's 54 month state sentence arising from the same criminal conduct. Junnier also faces a guidelines sentence of 121 months, and Smith faces a guidelines sentence of 151 months; those two defendants may, however, receive reductions based on their cooperation with the Government's investigation.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Jon-Peter Kelly, U.S. Attorney David E. Nahmias, and Department of Justice Civil Rights Division Special Litigation Counsel Paige M. Fitzgerald are prosecuting the case.


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FBI Announces Results of Three-Day Child Sex Trafficking Sweep

Today the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Department of Justice, and National Center for Missing and Exploited Children announced the conclusion of a three-day law enforcement action—Operation Cross Country II—aimed at combating sex trafficking of children. A similar enforcement action took place in June of this year as part of Operation Cross Country. Information obtained from the June enforcement action led FBI special agents and task force officers to identify other underage victims of sex trafficking. Both enforcement actions are aimed at disrupting the cycle of victimization of children involved in prostitution by getting them off the streets and at developing sufficient evidence to bring serious federal charges against the pimps who are profiting from the sale of children in this way.

Last week, the FBI joined with more than 92 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies in Operation Cross Country II across 29 cities. This effort led to 642 arrests and most importantly, the removal of 47 children from the cycle of victimization.

“Sex trafficking of children is one of the most violent and unconscionable crimes committed in this country,” said FBI Deputy Director John S. Pistole. “For that reason, we are committed to working with our partners to bring those who exploit children to justice. There are few law enforcement missions more important than protecting our nation’s children.”

“The FBI's leadership in attacking the problem of domestic trafficking of children is unprecedented and historic. These kids are victims being used as commodities for sale or trade. The unique partnership between the FBI, the Justice Department, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children is saving lives and bringing organized criminals to justice,” said Ernie Allen, President and CEO of the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

In June 2003, the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division Crimes Against Children Unit, in close cooperation with the Department of Justice’s Child Exploitations-Obscenity Section (CEOS) and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC), formed the Innocence Lost National Initiative to address criminal enterprises involved in the domestic sex trafficking of children. This program brings state and federal law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and social service providers from around the country to NCMEC, where the groups are trained together. In addition, CEOS has reinforced the training by assigning prosecutors to help bring cases in those cities plagued by child prostitution. Our alliance is proving to be a success. To date, the work of our 28 Innocence Lost task forces and working groups around the country have resulted in 265 indictments, 365 convictions on a combination of state and federal charges, 46 criminal enterprises disrupted and 36 successfully dismantled. Most importantly, our efforts have led to the recovery of 575 child victims.

The FBI extends its sincere appreciation to our partners who participated in Operation Cross Country II and ongoing enforcement efforts:

Alameda County Sheriff’s Office, Alexandria Police Department, Anchorage Police Department, Ann Arundel County Police Department, Arlington Heights Police Department, Atlanta Police Department, Atlantic City Police Department, Aurora Police Department, Boston Police Department, California Department of Justice, Campbell Police Department, Chelsea Police Department, Chicago Police Department, City of Miami Police Department, Cleveland County Sheriff’s Office, College Park Police Department, Concord Police Department, Cook County Sheriff’s Office, Costa Mesa Police Department, Dallas Police Department, DC Metropolitan Police Department, Delaware State Police, Denver Police Department, Detroit Police Department, Dublin Police Department, Edmond Police Department, Egg Harbor Township Police Department, Elk Grove Police Department, Fulton County Police Department, Glenview Police Department, Gloucester County Prosecutor’s Office, Grays Lake Police Department, Gurnee Police Department, Gwinnett County Police Department, Hapeville Police Department, Harris Country Sheriff’s Office, Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, Honolulu Police Department, Houston Police Department, Howard County Police Department, Immigration and Custom’s Enforcement, Indianapolis Police Department, Lake County Sheriff’s Office, Lakewood Police Department, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, Livermore Police Department, Louisiana State Police, Madison Heights Police Department, Maryland State Police, Massachusetts State Police, Miami Beach Police Department, Miami Dade Police Department, Michigan State Police, Midwest City Police Department, Milpitas Police Department, Montgomery County Police Department, Moreno Valley Police Department, Morgan Hill Police Department, Mundelein Police Department, Nevada Attorney General’s Office, New Jersey State Police, Norman Police Department, Oakland Police Department, Office of Inspector General - Social Security Administration, Oklahoma City Police Department, Ontario Police Department, Phoenix Police Department, Pierce County Sheriff’s Office, Pomona Police Department, Prince William County Police Department, Reno Police Department, Riverside Police Department, Rolling Meadows Police Department, Rowan University Police Department, Sacramento Police Department, San Bernardino Police Department, San Diego Police Department, San Francisco Police Department, San Jose Police Department, San Mateo Police Department, San Rafael Police Department, Santa Rosa Police Department, Shreveport, Police Department, Southfield Police Department, Sparks Police Department, Tacoma Police Department, Tampa Police Department, Toledo Police Department, University of Nevada at Reno Police Department, Washoe County Sheriff’s Office, Wayne County Sheriff's Office, and the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

The charges announced today are merely accusations and all defendants are presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty in a court of law.

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Former Clayton County Police Officer Sentenced for Sending Obscene Matter on the Internet

CASEY AUSTIN CARMICHAEL, 29, of Peachtree City, Georgia, was sentenced October 16, 2008, by United States District Judge Willis B. Hunt, Jr, on a charge of attempting to transfer obscene matter over the internet to a person under 16 years old.

United States Attorney David E. Nahmias said of today’s sentencing, “As a police officer, this defendant abused the public’s trust and his police computer to do the exact opposite of what he was supposed to do. Instead of fighting crime and arresting those who would do harm to our children and our community, he became a criminal and a threat to children.”

CARMICHAEL was sentenced to 2 years, 9 months in prison to be followed by 3 years of supervised release. There is no parole in the federal system. CARMICHAEL pleaded guilty to the charge on August 14, 2008.

According to United States Attorney Nahmias and the information presented in court: In September 2007, CARMICHAEL, while on duty as a Patrolman with the Clayton County Police Department, used his Department-issued computer to transfer obscene materials to a person CARMICHAEL believed to be girl under 16 years of age. CARMICHAEL had contacted her in a “chat room” on the Internet, and had conversations with her relating to obscene materials over several days while on duty as a Patrolman. The underage “girl” was actually an FBI Agent working undercover with the Safe Child Task Force. CARMICHAEL was dismissed from the Clayton County Police Department upon his indictment in this case.

This case was investigated by Special Agents of the FBI and its Safe Child Task Force.

Assistant United States Attorney David E. McClernan prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In February 2006, the Attorney General launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney's Offices around the country, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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Clayton County Police Officer Pleads Guilty in Obscenity Case

CASEY AUSTIN CARMICHAEL, 29, of Newnan, Georgia, pleaded guilty today (August 14, 2008) in federal district court to a one count Criminal Information, charging that defendant CARMICHAEL knowingly attempted to transfer obscene matter on the Internet to a person under the age of 16.

United States Attorney David E. Nahmias said of the case, “It is a sad day when a police officer or any public official misuses the trust of the citizens by using public resources to transfer pornographic material to a child. The actions of this officer should not negatively reflect upon the vast majority of law abiding officers and officials who work tirelessly in our community, including those officers who caught this defendant.”

According to United States Attorney Nahmias and the information presented in court: In September 2007, CARMICHAEL, while on duty as a Patrolman with the Clayton County Police Department, used his Department-issued computer to transfer obscene materials to a person CARMICHAEL believed to be girl under 16 years of age. CARMICHAEL had contacted her in a “chat room” on the Internet, and had conversations with her relating to obscene materials over several days while on duty as a Patrolman. The underage girl was actually an FBI Agent working undercover with the Project Safe Childhood Task Force. CARMICHAEL was dismissed from the Clayton County Police Department upon his indictment in this case.

Sentencing for CARMICHAEL is scheduled for October 16, 2008, at 2 p.m. before United States District Judge Willis Hunt. The defendant has agreed to a binding plea in this case of 2 years, 9 months in federal prison. There is no parole in the federal system.

This case is being brought as part of Project Safe Childhood. In February 2006, the Attorney General launched Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative designed to protect children from online exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney's Offices around the country, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.

This case is being investigated by Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and its Project Safe Childhood Task Force.

Assistant United States Attorney David E. McClernan is prosecuting the case.

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Fall Results in Death - Peachtree City Police Requests Assistance

On July 19, 2008, at 2:48 p.m., the Peachtree City Police Department, along with Peachtree City Emergency Medical Services responded to a medical call at 504 Willow Road. Dispatch Operators at the Fayette County 911 Center advised that a female of an unknown age had fallen, hit her head and was unconscious. Upon their arrival officers found Sharmane Phillips, age 47, unconscious with evidence of a possible head injury. Medical personnel immediately began treating Ms. Phillips and she was subsequently air-lifted to the Atlanta Medical Center for emergency treatment.

Witnesses at the residence informed police that Ms. Phillips fell down the stairs to her basement following a domestic dispute. Initially, Ms. Phillips failed to regain consciousness and was listed in Critical Condition in the Intensive Care Unit of Atlanta Medical Center.

On Sunday, July 20, 2008, Ms. Phillips succumbed to her injuries and was removed from life support systems. An autopsy has been ordered by the Fayette County Coroner’s Office and will be performed by Medical Examiners from the Georgia Bureau of Investigations.

Anyone with information regarding this incident is requested to contact the Peachtree City Police Department at 770-487-8866 during business hours or our 24 hour tip line at 770-487-6010. You may remain anonymous.

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Fatal Bicycle Accident in Peachtree City

On June 10, 2008, at approximately 9:24 a.m., Peachtree City Police Officers responded to a reported bicycle accident in the 800 block of Southern Shore Drive, north of The Enclave Subdivision in Peachtree City, Georgia. A preliminary investigation revealed that Ms. Berta Mikulcik of Peachtree City (62 years of age) was riding her bicycle on a downhill grade of Southern Shore Drive when she suddenly fell over the bicycle’s handlebars landing in the roadway. At the time of the accident the victim was not wearing a bicycle helmet.

When the police officers arrived on the accident scene, Ms. Mikulcik was conscious and able to provide pertinent information concerning her identification and telephone number. At approximately 9:32 a.m., Peachtree City Medics arrived on the scene and treated the victim. Due to visible injuries to the victim’s face, head and shoulder areas, Ms. Mikulcik was transported by the Rescue Air helicopter to the Atlanta Medical Center.

On June 11, 2008, the Police Department was notified that Ms. Berta Mikulcik had died as a result of the injuries suffered in the accident.

A comprehensive accident investigation is being conducted by investigators from the Police Department’s Community Response Team.

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Peachtree City Police Department Arrests Suspect

On Thursday, June 5, 2008, the Peachtree City Police Department received an anonymous tip that a package containing approximately 39 pounds of Marijuana was scheduled to be delivered to 518 Raintree Hill in Peachtree City. The package of Marijuana was delivered to this location during the morning of June 6th. At approximately 1:15 p.m. on June 6th, a Hispanic male arrived at 518 Raintree Hill, picked up the package and proceeded to leave in a vehicle. Peachtree City Officers stopped the vehicle on Robinson Road at the Avalon Subdivision and arrested MALDONADO, EDY (date of birth 02/20/66 of 133 Watson Home Lane, Dayton, TN). The investigation is ongoing at this time and further information will be released as available.

If anyone has information that would assist the Police Department in this or other incidents, please contact the Peachtree City Criminal Investigations Division at 770-631-2510, or the Crime and Narcotics Information Hotline at (770) 487-6010. You may remain anonymous.

Peachtree City Police Department Offers Reward for Recent Robbery

On Thursday, June 5, 2008, at approximately 12:31 a.m. the Peachtree City Police Department responded to a report of a robbery at the Flash Foods convenience store located at the corner of Crosstown Drive and Highway 74. The store clerk reported that a suspect sprayed him in the face with a substance and took money from the cash register. The suspect then fled the store on foot. The suspect was described as an African-American male, between 19-21 years of age, wearing a light colored denim baseball cap, dark in color jacket with a hood, white under shirt, white sneakers, and blue basketball jersey style shorts with a white vertical stripe on each leg.

A $1000.00 reward is being offered for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the suspect.

If anyone has information that would assist the Police Department in this or other incidents, please contact the Peachtree City Criminal Investigations Division at 770-631-2510, or the Crime and Narcotics Information Hotline at (770) 487-6010. You may remain anonymous.

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Arrest for Sale of Counterfeit Movies in Fayetteville

On Wednesday, March 28, 2008 the Fayetteville Police Department was contacted by a Private Investigator working for the MPAA (Motion Picture Association of America) investigating the sale of counterfeit material. Officer of the Fayetteville Police Department met with the Investigator who stated that he had bought counterfeit movies from a man selling them out of his SUV.

Officer located a 1999, white, Dodge, Durango driven by Kenneth McCrory in the area of “The Barber Shop”, 891 North Glynn Street. McCrory had 363 counterfeit movies and 820 counterfeit music CD’s in his SUV. The movies consisted of children’s movies, family oriented movies, and adult videos. Included in the movies were movies that are currently in theaters now.

McCrory has been charged with Unauthorized Distribution and Sale of Recorded Material, a felony.

McCrory is a clean cut, black, male, 6’-02”, 200 pounds, and fifty years old. The Fayetteville Police Department is asking that anyone that may have had contact with this person, please call the Detective Mike Whitlow at the Fayetteville Police Department, 770-461-4441.
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Peachtree City Police Department Special Press Release - May 29, 2008

Between midnight and 1:00 a.m. Wednesday May 28, 2008, what appeared to be a home made explosive device was found by a homeowner on the front porch of his residence in the 300 block of Loring Lane in Peachtree City. The device is described as a small 20 ounce bottle containing an unknown liquid. Although the device had detonated, it did not cause damage to the residence and there are no reported injuries pertaining to this incident.

On the evening of May 28, 2008 (6:00 p.m.), police officers were dispatched to the area of Georgian Park concerning four male juveniles that were setting off "bottle bombs" on the city’s cart path system. Before officers were able to arrive on the scene, the juveniles had left the area on a golf cart. After interviewing witnesses, officers were able to locate the juveniles; however, the juveniles obstructed the officers by refusing to stop their vehicle. Eventually, three of the juveniles jumped off the golf cart and fled the area by running away. The driver of the golf cart was stopped a short time later at Turtle Bay. After identifying and interviewing the juveniles (two 16 years of age and two 15 years of age), juvenile complaints were filed with the Fayette County Juvenile Court for Manufacturing an explosive device and Obstruction of a Police Officer. While detectives were interviewing the four juveniles, the police department received another call regarding 4-5 other male juveniles who were setting off another device in the area of Cove Road and Fishers Luck. A subsequent investigation determined that these other juveniles had purchased chemical agents at one of the city’s shopping centers just prior to the incident. The following morning, May 29, 2008, the police department received additional reports of “bottle bomb” incidents and determined that the devices were detonated in the Timber Walk, Interlochen, and Carnellian Lane areas. One of the “bottle bombs” was placed in the home owner’s mail box.

Investigators from the Peachtree City Police Department are following up on leads associated with these incidents as well as a similar incident that occurred on Monday, May 26, 2008, in the 300 Block of Hippocket Road. The police department has offered a $500.00 reward for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individuals involved in these crimes.

The Loring Lane and Hippocket Road incidents are still under investigation.

If anyone has information that would assist the Police Department in these or other incidents, please contact the Peachtree City Criminal Investigations Division at 770-631-2510, or the Crime and Narcotics Information Hotline at (770) 487-6010.

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Peachtree City Police Department Special Press Release

Between midnight and 0100 a.m. Wednesday May 28, 2008, what appeared to be a home made explosive device was found by a homeowner at their residence in the 300 block on Loring Lane in Peachtree City. The complainant found the device on the front porch of his residence.

The device is described as a small 20 ounce bottle containing an unknown liquid. Although the device had detonated it did not cause damage to the residence and there are no reported injuries pertaining to this incident.

Investigators from the Peachtree City Police Department are following up on leads associated with this incident and a similar incident that occurred on Monday, May 26, 2008, in the 300 Block of Hippocket Road. The Peachtree City Police Department is offering a $500.00 reward for any information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the individuals involved in these crimes.

If anyone has information that would assist the Police Department in these or other incidents, please contact the Peachtree City Criminal Investigations Division at 770-631-2510, or the Crime and Narcotics Information Hotline at (770) 487-6010.