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NewsCrime

Businessman Convicted Of Defrauding Former NBA Players

Damian Williams, the United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, has announced the conviction of CALVIN DARDEN, JR. for his role in defrauding former National Basketball Association ("NBA”) players Dwight Howard and Chandler Parsons out of $8 million. The defendant was found guilty following an 11-day jury trial before U.S. District Judge Vernon S. Broderick.U.S. Attorney Damian Williams said: "Calvin Darden, Jr. exploited the trust of former NBA players Dwight Howard and Chandler Parsons, using elaborate lies and deception to line his own pockets with millions. This conviction serves as a stark reminder that financial deceit will not be tolerated.This Office remains committed to pursuing those who exploit others, and we will work tirelessly to ensure that justice is served.”According to court documents and evidence presented at trial:In the fraud against Howard, DARDEN, JR. deceived Howard into sending him $7 million, purportedly for the purpose of buying the Atlanta Dream (the "Dream”), a team in the Women’s National Basketball Association. DARDEN, JR. worked with Charles Briscoe, Howard’s agent, to perpetrate the fraud.DARDEN, JR. sent a "Vision Plan” to Howard about the purported purchase of the Dream. The Vision Plan falsely claimed that a number of celebrities and companies—including Tyler Perry, Issa Rae, Naomi Osaka, Aflac, and Starbucks—had agreed to be advisors to the Dream or to sponsor the Dream after Howard purchased it. In truth and in fact, those individuals and companies had never agreed to be advisors or corporate sponsors to the Dream and many had never even heard of DARDEN, JR. or the plan to purchase the Dream.DARDEN, JR.’s father ("Relative-1”) is a prominent businessman. DARDEN, JR. repeatedly impersonated Relative-1 in an attempt to add credibility to his fraud scheme.DARDEN, JR. directed Howard to send the $7 million to a shell company he controlled, in order to effectuate the purported purchase of the Dream. DARDEN, JR. then laundered the money through a number of different bank accounts he controlled. DARDEN, JR. did not spend any money on the purchase of the Dream. Instead, he spent the money on a $3.7 million mansion, a Rolls-Royce, a Lamborghini, a Porsche, Basquiat paintings, and other luxury goods for himself.Howard learned that he did not in fact own the Dream only when ESPN reported that the Dream had in fact been sold to someone else.In the fraud against Parsons, DARDEN, JR. deceived Parsons into sending him $1 million, purportedly for the purpose of loaning the money to James Wiseman, a prospect in the 2020 NBA draft. DARDEN, JR. and Briscoe falsely claimed to know Wiseman, and forged a document stating that Wiseman had agreed that Briscoe would be his agent in order to convince Parsons to send the money. In truth and in fact, DARDEN, JR. and Briscoe did not know Wiseman and did not send any of the money to Wiseman. Instead, DARDEN, JR. spent his cut of the fraud proceeds on watches, a Mercedes, and other personal expenses.DARDEN, JR. was previously convicted of fraud in New York state in 2005. He was also convicted of fraud in the Southern District of New York in 2015.In the 2015 case, DARDEN, JR. committed frauds involving a purported purchase of Maxim magazine and a purported NBA exhibition game in Taiwan. In that prior fraud, DARDEN, JR. also impersonated Relative-1 in an attempt to add credibility to his fraud scheme.* * *DARDEN, JR., 50, of Atlanta, Georgia, was convicted of one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years; one count of wire fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years; one count of bank fraud, which carries a maximum sentence of 30 years; one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years; and one count of money laundering, which carries a maximum sentence of 20 years.The statutory maximum sentence is prescribed by Congress and is provided here for informational purposes only, as the sentencing of the defendants will be determined by the judge. DARDEN, JR. is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Broderick on January 27, 2024, at 11:00 a.m.Mr. Williams praised the outstanding work of the FBI.The case is being prosecuted by the Office’s Complex Frauds and Cybercrime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin Mead, Brandon C. Thompson, and William C. Kinder are in charge of the prosecution._Courtesy of Justice Department

Marshall County Sheriff Report For 9-24-2024

The following Inmates have been booked into theMarshallCounty Detention Center within the last 24 hours.The information was reported on September 24, 2024by the sheriff's office.NOTE: All persons are presumed innocent until his or herguilt is establishedbeyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.CUPPS, RANDYBooking Date: 09-24-2024 - 1:35 a.m.Charges: Methamphetamine-PossessBond: No BondMANNING, KRISTENBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 10:50 p.m.Charges: DEPENDENCY OR NEED OF SUPERVISION OF CHILDRENBond: $500.00 - MARSHALL CO SHERIFFS - AL0500000TAYLOR, JAMESBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 10:42 p.m.Charges: DOMESTIC-SIMPLE ASSUALT-FAMILYBond: $3,000.00 - MARSHALL CO SHERIFFS - AL0500000MCELYEA, TIMOTHYBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 7:38 p.m.Charges: ALIAS WARRANT OF ARRESTAlias Writ of ArrestAlias Writ of ArrestBond: $282.00 - ARAB POLICE DEPT - AL0500300$1,000.00 - ARAB POLICE DEPT - AL0500300$300.00 - ARAB POLICE DEPT - AL0500300JOHNSON, CRYSTALBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 3:02 p.m.Charges: Giving False Identification to Law Enforcement OfficerFailure to Appear/Comply/PayFailure to Appear/Comply/PayBond: $2,500.00 - BOAZ POLICE DEPT - AL0500400$250.00 - MARSHALL CO SHERIFFS - AL0500000$250.00 - MARSHALL CO SHERIFFS - AL0500000FOWLER, STANLEYBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 3:00 p.m.Charges: Probation ViolationBond: No BondRICH, JAMESBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 2:57 p.m.Charges: None ListedBond: No BondMERFELD, JEREMYBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 2:30 pmCharges: Failure to Appear/Comply/PayBond: No BondMICKEL, KRISTOPHERRelease Date: 09-23-2024 - 4:35 p.m.Booking Date: 09-23-2024 - 1:45 p.m.Charges: Failure to Appear/Comply/PayBond: $250.00 - MARSHALL CO SHERIFFS - AL0500000GARCIA, ROGERBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 9:04 a.m.Charges: ASSAULT DOMESTIC VIOLENCE STRANGULATIONBond: No Bond

DeKalb County Sheriff Report For 9-24-2024

The following Inmates have been booked into theDeKalb County Detention Center within the last 24 hours.The information was reported on September 24, 2024by the sheriff's office.NOTE: All persons are presumed innocent until his or herguilt is establishedbeyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.ROOKS, TYRelease Date:09-23-2024 - 11:45 pmBooking Date:09-23-2024 - 8:12 pmCharges:HOLD FOR AGENCYSHAW, ADAMBooking Date:09-23-2024 - 5:11 pmCharges:FAILING TO APPEAR (TRAFFICFAILING TO APPEAR (TRAFFICFAILING TO APPEAR (TRAFFICBond:$851Gray, JonathanBooking Date:09-23-2024 - 3:44 pmCharges:FAILURE TO APPEAR SEE NARRATIVEFAILURE TO APPEAR SEE NARRATIVECLOUGH, MICHAELABooking Date:09-23-2024 - 11:39 amCharges:FAILURE TO APPEAR SEE NARRATIVEFAILURE TO APPEAR SEE NARRATIVEFAILURE TO APPEAR SEE NARRATIVEGIBSON, MADISYNBooking Date:09-23-2024 - 10:25 amCharges:ASSAULT IIICRIMINAL MISCHIEF IIIDOMESTIC VIOLENCE IIIBond:$2000

Etowah County Sheriff Report For 9-24-2024

The following Inmates have been booked into the Etowah County Detention Center within the last 24 hours.The information was reported on September 24, 2024 by the sheriff's office.NOTE: All persons are presumed innocent until his or her guilt is establishedbeyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.TAYLOR, DELORESBooking Date: 09-24-2024 - 2:23 a.m.Charges: APPEARS IN PUBLIC PLACE UNDER INFLUENCEBond: $362.00WOLGAST, NICHOLASBooking Date: 09-24-2024 - 12:54 a.m.Charges: INJURYBond: $0.00ELLIOTT, KACEYBooking Date: 09-24-2024 - 12:54 a.m.Charges: D.U.I. (ALCOHOL)Bond: $1000.00ROOKS, TYBooking Date: 09-24-2024 - 12:41 amCharges: DRUGS (AFTER 1-30-2016)Bond: No BondSIMS, NICHOLASBooking Date: 09-24-2024 - 12:35 amCharges: None ListedBond: $0.00DEAN, JEROMYBooking Date: 09-24-2024 - 12:28 amCharges: DRUGS (AFTER 1-30-2016)PROBATION REVOCATIONCRIMINAL MISCHIEF 1ST-OTHERBond: $0.00BYNUM, ELIJAHBooking Date: 09-24-2024 - 12:14 amCharges: GAMBLING DEVICEBond: $1000.00GRAUBARD, BRETTBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 8:31 pmCharges: ATTEMPTING TO ELUDE POLICE OFFICERBond: $1150.40WILLIAMS, AARONBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 5:34 pmCharges: ILLEGAL POSSESSION OF PRESCRIPTION DRUGBURGLARY NON-RESIDENCE-NO FORCECRIMINAL MISCHIEF 3RD-OTHERPOSSESS/RECEIVE CONT. SUB.POSSESS/RECEIVE CONT. SUB.Bond: $1000.00DUNN, COURTNEYBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 2:25 pmCharges: None ListedBond: $0.00STONE, DAYLONRelease Date: 09-23-2024 - 10:05 pmBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 2:01 pmCharges: BURGLARY NON-RESIDENCE-NO FORCETHEFT OF PROPERTY 2NDBond: $5000.00ROGERS, DEVRONBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 11:28 amCharges: DRUGS (AFTER 1-30-2016)Bond: $0.00MORGAN, JACQUELINEBooking Date: 09-23-2024 - 11:02 amCharges: PROMOTE PRISON CONTRABAND 2NDBond: $0.00

Jury finds former DA guilty of six felonies

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has announced that former Houston County Assistant District Attorney Mark Johnson was found guilty on ethics charges after a Houston County jury returned six guilty verdicts. As a result of his six felony convictions, Johnson has been taken into custody.Throughout the four-day trial, the Houston County jury heard evidence that Johnson used his position as a county prosecutor to solicit and receive sexual favors for himself from three defendants. In one situation, Johnson solicited an escort from a defendant facing life in prison for a drug trafficking charge. Johnson later solicited that same defendant for another girl who had just been released from prison. In addition, Johnson solicited and received a sexual photo, and in exchange, helped a femaledefendantstay out of court-ordered drug rehabilitation so that he could continue to communicate with her in Houston County. In another instance, Johnson solicited sexual photos and sexual contact, then helpeda female defendantavoid active warrants and fine deadlines that resulted from convictions over which he was the prosecutor.The jury convicted Johnson on all counts in the indictment."This is a clear case of someone habitually using their position to exploit vulnerable women for his own gratification,” Attorney General Steve Marshall said. "Mr. Johnson violated the public trust by taking advantage of the community he swore to serve and protect, and he now must be held accountable for his crimes.”Johnson faces possible sentences of two to 20 years for each conviction. Sentencing will occur at a later date.This case was prosecuted by Attorney General Marshall’s Special Prosecutions Division, including Assistant Attorney Generals Kyle Beckman, Alana Cammack, and Jasper Roberts. He gives special thanks to the special agents and support staff for their hard work in prosecuting the case. He also thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation for its invaluable investigative assistance and the Houston County District Attorney’s Office for its cooperation and assistance in this case.

Montgomery Man Found Guilty of Selling Fentanyl Pills

On August 15, 2024, a federal jury convicted 37-year-old Lawrence Coley, III, a resident of Montgomery, Alabama, on charges of distribution of a controlled substance resulting in death and possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute the illegal drug, announced United States Attorney Jonathan S. Ross.According to court records and evidence presented during Coley’s trial, on August 26, 2022, law enforcement received a report of an unresponsive person inside a vehicle at a Montgomery residence. Officers arrived at the location and found a truck in the driveway. The truck’s ignition was on, and doors were locked. Inside they found a lifeless man with no visible signs of trauma or injury that would have caused his death. A medical examiner concluded that the victim died due to the toxic effects of fentanyl, a potent synthetic opioid. The jury heard expert testimony stating that the quantity of fentanyl found in the victim’s blood was four to five times the lethal dose.An investigation into how the victim obtained the fentanyl revealed that, for over a year, Coley had been supplying the victim with illegal narcotics. These transactions occurred almost daily and sometimes even multiple times a day. The jury also heard testimony verifying that the victim purchased narcotics from Coley on the very morning of his death. Investigators obtained a search warrant for Coley’s residence and found 70 blue pills with "M” marked on one side, and "30” on the opposite side. The pills’ color and markings made them look like pharmaceutical oxycodone tablets. However, lab tests determined the pills were counterfeit and contained fentanyl instead of oxycodone. When officers arrested Coley during a traffic stop, they found him in possession of five additional counterfeit fentanyl pills.In finding Coley guilty, the jury determined that the fentanyl sold by Coley to the victim caused his death and that Coley intended to distribute the fentanyl pills in his possession."Counterfeit pills containing fentanyl have become commonplace in Alabama and throughout the United States,” said United States Attorney Ross. "Everyone should assume that any pill that does not come from a doctor or pharmacy may contain a fatal dose of fentanyl or another deadly drug. My office is committed to holding accountable individuals who sell these dangerous pills.”"The top priority of the Drug Enforcement Administration is to hold accountable those individuals and drug trafficking organizations who poison our communities with deadly drugs like fentanyl,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer. "Today’s conviction is a step forward in our mission to build teams that save lives and make communities safer. While we celebrate this victory, we must remember the tragic death caused by the callous disregard for human life exhibited by this individual. The conviction sends a clear message: those who choose profit over people will be held accountable.”Following this conviction, Coley faces a sentence of 20 years to life in federal prison. A sentencing hearing for Coley will be scheduled in the coming months. At that hearing, a federal district court judge will determine Coley’s sentence after considering the United States Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Montgomery Police Department investigated this case, with assistance from the Alabama Department of Forensic Sciences and the Alabama Attorney General’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon W. Bates and Christopher P. Moore are prosecuting the case.

Florida woman rearrested following fraud investigation

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has arrested Paula Lynne Mrozek (aka Paula Lynne Burke), 52, of Tallahassee, for grand theft over $750 and less than $5,000. The Florida Highway Patrol assisted in the arrest.FDLE agents received a new tip from a local credit union that Mrozek’s bank deposits were suspicious. The investigation revealed that Mrozek deposited 168 money orders that appear to have been stolen from the Florida Department of Revenue. Three of the deposited money orders were altered similar to the altered money orders in her Feb. 21, 2024 arrest.The case is being investigated by FDLE Tallahassee Organized Crime squad.Mrozek was booked into the Leon County Jail on June 19 under the name Paula Lynne Burke. Additional charges are pending completion of the investigation. She will be prosecuted by the State Attorney’s Office, Second Judicial Circuit.News Release From February 22, 2024Agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) arrested Paula Lynne Mrozek, 52, of Tallahassee on grand theft charges of more than $20,000, a second-degree felony.Mrozek, a Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) employee, is charged with altering money orders intended for motor vehicle taxes and depositing them into her personal bank account while she worked for DOR. In all, Mrozek made 41 deposits of altered money orders totaling $23,915.88. DOR has initiated dismissal procedures for Mrozek.Authorities at DOR were alerted to the criminal activity when a local credit union noticed suspicious ATM activity and notified the agency.Mrozek is being held in the Leon County Jail pending first appearance. She will be prosecuted by the State Attorney’s Office, Second Judicial Circuit.

Tear Gas used to remove woman from home

OnFriday, June 14, 2024 Officers with the Rainsville Police Department answered awelfare check at a residence on Lee Avenue at approximately 5:23 p.m. Officersfound a female barricaded in her home threatening to harm any officers thatentered her house, as well as threatening to harm herself with a firearm.TheDekalb County Sheriff’s Office SRT was notified and quickly responded to thescene.Officerswith the SRT and Rainsville PD attempted to speak with the subject inside thehome for nearly two hours but was unable to get the female to exit her homepeacefully.Authoritiesreported that tear gas was deployed inside the residence and the Dekalb CountySheriff’s office SRT was able to peacefully take the female into custody byentering the home.RainsvillePolice Chief Michael Edmondson noted that there is no threat to the community.Edmondson also wanted thank the SRT from the sheriff’s office for their quickresponse and willingness to put their lives on the line to help RainsvillePolice Department.Thename of the subject will not be released.

Mississippi Man Gets 15 years for distributing methamphetamine

A Starkville,, Mississippi man has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for drug trafficking.According to a press release and court documents, Chad Boyd, aka Chadrick Robinson, age 41, previously pled guilty to distribution of 50 grams or more of methamphetamine (actual), also known as "ice,” a Schedule II controlled substance. Boyd was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills to 180 months in prison followed by 5 years of supervised release. Boyd was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals following his sentencing hearing."Individuals who chose to spend their time selling meth and other illegal drugs in the Northern District of Mississippi should know that this office and our law enforcement partners will do all we can to see that they are removed from the community and sent to prison,” remarked U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner. "We hope that today’s sentence will serve as another reminder that the sale of illegal narcotics has detrimental and life-changing consequences for those who peddle the illicit substances and those who use them.”"The sentencing of Mr. Chad Boyd, for the distribution of methamphetamine, underscores the positive impacts law enforcement has on the communities affected by the drug crisis,” said FBI SAC Robert A. Eikhoff. "Criminals like Mr. Boyd can expect the FBI and our federal, state, and local partners to remain steadfast in our resolve to remove offenders from the communities where they would otherwise bring the violence and the criminal activity inextricably linked to illegal drugs.”This case was investigated by the FBI and the Starkville Police Department. The case was prosecuted by AUSA Robert Mims.

Man Pleads Guilty of Calling in Threats to Walmart

An Atlanta man has pled guilty to making interstate threats just three days after a gunman shot and killed six people at a Walmart in Chesapeake, Virginia.According to court documents, on Nov. 25, 2022, DeAndre Tamir Murphy, aka DeAdre Murphy, 30, called two Walmart stores in Virginia Beach and threatened that he had gunmen in place prepared to enter the stores. That date was the day following Thanksgiving, known as "Black Friday,” when stores were full for the busiest shopping day of the year. Identifying himself as "Mohammed,” Murphy demanded $20,000 or, he threatened, his gunmen would enter the stores and "start shooting people.”Investigators - who recorded the second call - traced the call back to Murphy in Atlanta.Murphy is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 27. He faces a statutory maximum of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.Jessica D. Aber, U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Virginia, and Brian Dugan, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Norfolk Field Office, made the announcement after U.S. Magistrate Judge Robert J. Krask accepted the plea.Assistant U.S. Attorney Joseph L. Kosky is prosecuting the case.A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Virginia. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the Eastern District of Virginia or on PACER by searching for Case No. 2:24-cr-9.

non-citizen and felon arrested for voter fraud in Florida

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has arrested Lazaro Valle-Villar, 74, for three counts of voter fraud-related crimes.Valle-Villar is a six-time convicted felon in Miami-Dade County and a citizen of Cuba.The charges are the result of an investigation led by FDLE’s Election Crime Unit (ECU) working with the Florida Department of State Office of Election Crimes and Security (OECS), Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Immigration and Customs Office (ICE) and with assistance from the Miami-Dade County Supervisor of Elections Office."Voter fraud in any election jeopardizes the integrity of all elections. FDLE’s Election Crime Unit and Department of State’s Office of Election Crimes and Security are steadfast in making sure that the criminals that commit these crimes will not go unpunished in Florida," saidFDLE Commissioner Mark Glass.Valle-Villar is charged with one felony count each for submitting false voter registration to Secretary of State, voting as an unqualified elector, submission of false voter registration and false affirmation regarding voting or elections.Investigators say he falsely affirmed being a U.S. citizen on two voter registration applications he submitted, one in February 2020 and one in November 2021. Valle-Villar then voted illegally in two local elections in 2021.Valle-Villar was arrested April 24 and booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. The case will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, 11th Judicial Circuit."Criminals and non-citizens who violate the Florida Election Code will be caught and held accountable. The Florida Department of State will continue to investigate and refer all valid claims of election fraud to FDLE and our partners to ensure the law is upheld and our elections are safe," addedFlorida Secretary of State Cord Byrd.

Alabama Attorney Guilty of Harassment

Alabama Attorney General Steve Marshall has announced the conviction and sentencing of a Limestone County attorney for Harassment.John Totten, age 50, of Athens, recently pleaded guilty to one count of Harassment, a Class C misdemeanor.According to Marshall Totten was representing a defendant accused of domestic violence and prior to a court hearing, he met the victim and the defendant and told the victim to stay at his office.Later, when the victim came to the courthouse, Totten confronted her verbally and told the victim to leave the courthouse, causing her to be fearful of showing up at the courthouse."Victims of domestic violence should not fear harassment from attorneys who represent their attackers,” said Attorney General Steve Marshall. "Attorneys should especially be held to the strictest moral and ethical standards as they carry out their roles in our judicial system. Those who violate these standards will face criminal prosecution in accordance with the law.”After pleading guilty to the misdemeanor, Totten was sentenced pursuant to the plea agreement to 90 days in the county jail, which was suspended and ordered to serve one year of probation.Attorney General Steve Marshall commended his Criminal Trials and Investigations Divisions for their successful prosecution of this case, in particular, Deputy Attorney General John Kachelman, as well as the Investigations Unit of the Limestone County Sheriff’s Office for their work in bringing this case to conclusion.

Several Arrested During On Drug Related Charges

According to Dekalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, during the month of March authorities recovered 1454 grams of methamphetamine, 89 grams of marijuana, 13 grams of fentanyl, 3 gram of cocaine, 13 grams of synthetic marijuana and 27 prescription narcotic pills. Additionally, 17 individuals were arrested on drug related charges.The sheriff's office reported the following arrests.On Friday, March 1st, DeKalb County Deputies and Officers with Geraldine PD conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 at Hwy 227 finding the driver to be in possession of a marijuana, cocaine, drug paraphernalia and a firearm. Paul Anthony Gordon (58 of Albertville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Person Forbidden to Possess Pistol.Again, on Friday, DeKalb County Deputies stopped a vehicle on County Road 85 for a tag violation. During the stop, it was discovered that the driver Danny Lemar Wallace (50 of Valley Head) had active warrants with Ider PD. Marijuana was found during a search of the vehicle. Wallace was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st and 1 warrant for Failure to Appear. On Sunday, March 3rd, Officers with Fyffe PD made a traffic stop on Hwy 75, near County Road 76, finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine. Savannah Grace Smith (23 of Fyffe) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.On Tuesday, March 5th, Officers with Sylvania PD attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Blue Pond Blvd near 7th Street. The driver refused to stop and led Officers on a short pursuit which ended on County Road 506 after the driver lost control and spun off the roadway., Officers with Henagar and Rainsville PD arrived to assist. The female passenger in the vehicle was checked out and cleared by DAS on scene. During a search of the vehicle, methamphetamine and marijuana were found. Travis Ray Jordan (25 of Ider) was charged with Attempt to Elude, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear. Stephanie Jean Wheeler (44 of Sylvania) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.On Wednesday, March 13th, Officers with Powell PD conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 35 finding the driver in possession of methamphetamine. Billy Joe Bong (45 of Dutton) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 1 warrant for Failure to Appear.Again, on Wednesday, Officers with Ider PD conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 for a tag violation. The driver Maggie Elizabeth Griffis (39 of Pisgah) had active warrants with Jackson County. Griffis was found to be in possession of prescription narcotics that she had no prescription for. Griffis was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substances.On Thursday, March 14th, Officers with Sylvania PD went to a residence on Hulsey Road in Sylvania to serve a warrant. Officers identified Melissa Leshae Biddle (43 of Henagar) and found her in possession of methamphetamine and prescription narcotics that she did not have a prescription for. Biddle was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 3 warrants for Failure to Appear.Again, on Thursday, DeKalb County Deputies responded to County Road 804 in Flat Rock on a report of a female having a gun trying to get into a residence and possibly being under the influence. Deputies arrived finding Ashia Nicole Dagnan (32 of Trenton, Ga) trying to enter the residence. Dagnan was found in possession of methamphetamine, controlled medication, marijuana and a pellet gun. Dagnan was charged with Domestic Violence 3rd, Harassment, Violation of Protection Order, Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance, Illegal Possession of Prescription Drugs, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Interfere with DV Emergency Call.On Friday, March 15th, DeKalb County Deputies responded to a residence on County Road 33 on a possible overdose. Upon arrival, Deputies administered Narcan to the victim who then became responsive and refused any medical treatment. During a search, fentanyl, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found. Derrick Lane Moody (32 of Fyffe) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x2) and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Misty Dawn Moody (48 of Fyffe) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.On Sunday, March 17th, Officers with Fyffe PD conducted a traffic stop on County Road 50 and County Road 44 in Fyffe for littering. The driver was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Bradley Craig Allen (44 of Douglasville, Ga) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.On Monday, March 18th, Narcotics Agents went to a residence on County Road 48 to execute a warrant. Upon arrival, James David Sisk (41 of Fyffe) led Agents on a short foot pursuit and was combative when detained. During a search, Sisk was found to be in possession of methamphetamine. Sisk was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Resisting Arrest, Attempt to Elude (x2) Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear.Again, on Monday, DeKalb County Deputies, along with Officers with Collinsville PD conducted a Drivers License check point on County Road 51 and County Road 12. During the check point, Raymond Lee Gibson (53 of Rainsville) pulled up, giving the Officers a false name. After identifying Gibson, they found that he also had warrants with DCSO. As Officers were placing Gibson under arrest, he tossed a bag to the ground containing fentanyl and methamphetamine and tried covering it with his foot. Gibson was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Trafficking in any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Use False ID to Obstruct Justice and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear.On Wednesday, March 20th, Plainview School’s SRO detected a strong odor of marijuana coming from within a vehicle while in the school pick up line. When confronted, Hubert Craig Bodiford (51 of Rainsville) handed the marijuana over to the SRO. Bodiford was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st.On Thursday, March 21st, DeKalb County Deputies responded to County Road 140 to a call of a white male slumped over the steering wheel of a vehicle with the car still in drive. Upon arrival, Deputies positioned their vehicle in a way to where the driver could not accelerate into the roadway when he came to. Deputies could see signs of drug use and fearing the driver had overdosed, busted the window to administer medical aid. When the driver came to, he was checked out by DAS but refused any medical attention. Zachary Blake Powell (32 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and DUI (controlled substance).On Wednesday, March 27th, Alabama Pardons and Paroles went to a residence on County Road 127 in Fort Payne to conduct a home visit. While there, Terry Wayne Knight (47 of Fort Payne) was identified as having active warrants with DCSO. While Deputies were taking Knight into custody, they noticed he was trying to hide a bag containing methamphetamine under his foot. Knight was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and 9 warrants for Failure to Appear.

Pensacola man arrested for possession of child sexual abuse material

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) has arrested Aiden Russell Thompson, 20, of Pensacola, on 30 felony counts for possession of child sexual abuse material, and one count for unlawful use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony.The investigation began in December 2023 after the Pensacola Police Department provided FDLE agents several Cyber Tip complaints from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). The tips referenced a social media user uploading child sexual abuse material to a social media platform.Through the investigative and legal processes, agents identified Thompson’s home address where multiple files depicting the sexual abuse of children had been downloaded to an electronic device.With assistance from Homeland Security Investigations and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, FDLE agents served a search warrant on Thompson’s home on February 20 and an onsite forensic analysis of his cell phone was conducted. Agents located numerous files depicting children, some as young as five years old, being sexually abused.The investigation was conducted by the FDLE Pensacola Cyber Squad and the Pensacola Police Department.Thompson was arrested and booked into the Escambia County Jail without bond pending first appearance. The case will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, First Judicial Circuit.Please visit the FDLE website to review tips for keeping your children safe online at:https://secureflorida.org/Family-Safety/BPParents.htm.

Man arrested on child sexual abuse material charges

The Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) recenlty arrested Steven Thomas Twitty, 28, of Pensacola on 20 felony counts for possession of child sexual abuse material, and one felony count each for transmission of child sexual abuse material and possession of over 20 grams of marijuana.The investigation began in November 2023 after FDLE agents identified an unknown internet user offering to share electronic files depicting the sexual abuse of children. Through the investigative and legal process, Twitty was linked to the file sharing.Agents served a search warrant on Twitty’s home on February 15 and an onsite forensic analysisof his computer was conducted. Numerous file paths were located that had filenames indicative of child sexual abuse material. Twitty admitted that he had possessed the child sexual abuse files that were shared online, which depicted some children as young as 5 years old. Agents also located more than 20 grams of marijuana in his bedroom during the search.The investigation was conducted by the FDLE Pensacola Cyber Squad.Twitty was arrested and booked into the Escambia County Jail yesterday without bond pending first appearance. The case will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, First Judicial Circuit.Please visit the FDLE website to review tips for keeping your children safe online at:https://secureflorida.org/Family-Safety/BPParents.htm.

Florida man arrested sexual solicitation of a child

Cyber agents with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) have arrested James Michael Burkett, 31, of Pensacola for sexual solicitation of a child online.The investigation into Burkett started in November of 2023 when he initiated communication on a social media platform with who he believed was a 13-year-old female. In fact, Burkett was communicating with an FDLE undercover agent posing as a teen.During the course of the communications, Burkett sent explicit photos of himself to the "child” and sought to meet for sexual relations.Based on the online communications, FDLE obtained a warrant and charged Burkett with one count of using a computer to seduce, solicit, lure, or entice a minor; one count of promoting the sexual performance of a minor; two counts of transmission of material harmful to a minor; and one count of the use of a two-way communication device to facilitate a felony.Burkett acknowledged that he was the individual communicating with the child persona. Burkett was transported to the Escambia County Jail where at the time of the new release he was being held without bond pending his first appearance.Burkett will be prosecuted by the Office of the State Attorney, First Judicial Circuit.

Former Dekalb County Attorney Sentenced To 20 Years in Prison

Alabama Attorney GeneralSteve Marshall has announced the conviction and sentencing of a DeKalb County, Alabama attorney.According to a news release, Teresa Darwin Phillips, age 43 of Sylvania, a former attorney andcandidate for DeKalb County District Judge, was sentenced by Circuit CourtJudge Jeremy Taylor to 20 years in prison for her involvement in multiplecrimes.The charges againstPhillips come from her work as an attorney practicing in Sylvania, where sheused her position as an attorney to access, steal, and spend approximately$250,000 from multiple clients. The 2020 investigation led by the Dekalb CountyDistrict Attorney’s Office revealed Phillips’ scheme to use the funds given toher by clients and other elderly individuals for whom she had been appointed aslegal guardian or conservator for her own personal gain. Phillips previouslypled guilty on November 7, 2022, to nine felony offenses."Trust isfundamental to the attorney-client relationship. Once a lawyer has gained thetrust of a client, particularly an elderly client, they owe that client thehighest degree of honestly and loyalty,” said Attorney General SteveMarshall. "To see that trust betrayed on such a wide scale warrants a severereaction from the justice system. Our team saw to that. This case should serveas yet another warning to attorneys across our state seeking to take advantageof vulnerable clients—you will be found out and held accountable.”"Our communitydeserves to have attorneys who take their jobs seriously and works withintegrity and honesty,” said District Attorney Summer Summerford. "My officewill not stand for the intentional, premeditated targeting of vulnerable peoplewho rely on attorneys for help in times of need. Although this sentence willnot replace what the victims lost, hopefully it will provide the closure inthis long case and deter other attorneys from making the same mistakes.”Attorney GeneralMarshall would like to commend Investigator Gary Williams and other local lawenforcement for their work in the investigation of this case and AssistantDistrict Attorney Stanna Guice and Deputy Attorney General John Kachelman fortheir work in prosecuting the case.

School Resource Officer arrested for Sexual Contact with student

By Brandon K. PierceAlabama LedgerA former law enforcement officer has been arrested for having sexual contact with a student.According to DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden, Jairo Alexander Castillo (age 32 of Collinsville, AL), has been arrested and taken into custody by Alabama State Bureau of Investigation. Castillo was formerly employed with DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office as a school resource officer. He was charged with School employee having sexual contact with a student (x2)."It’s unfortunate that something like this has happened in our own community and it is definitely a black eye in many ways for us all,” said Welden."I hoped and prayed these allegations were unfounded but according to the investigation, evidence proves otherwise and now it’s time to deal with it head on. No one person is better than the other and we strive on fairness and that is exactly how this case with be handled, period.”The arrest comes after complaints were received by DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office and DeKalb County Board of Education.The investigation was turned over to the State Bureau of Investigation. Welden noted that it is standard procedure if an employee of the Sheriff’s Office is being investigated, that the investigation is turned over to the state or an outside agency."I want to thank the State Bureau of Investigations for quickly accepting this complaint from our office and working diligently to come to appropriate conclusions to handle this matter. Also, I would like to thank the DeKalb County Board of Education for their assistance and cooperation. I pray adequate justice is served and this will show a display that no one is above the law!”At the time of the press release, Castillo was in the DeKalb County Detention Center on a $300,000 bond.

Fyffe man arrested for dissemination of child porn

By Brandon K. PierceAlabama LedgerA Fyffe man has been arrested for seven counts of dissemination of child pornography.According to a press release, the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Office Investigations Unit received a tip on November 9, 2023 from the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force in conjunction with the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that an individual residing in Dekalb County had been involved in disseminating images of child pornography via the social media platform KIK.After execution of a search warrant, authorities arrested Bradley Ray Hancock, age 40 of Fyffe, and he has been charged with seven counts of dissemination of child pornography."I am thankful for the continued partnership between the DeKalb County Sheriff’s Investigations Unit, the ICAC, and the NCMEC. Bringing cases of this nature to a close is of the highest priority at our office,” said Sheriff Welden. "I’m proud of our investigators and the hard work they perform daily on these types of cases as well as all cases they work.”

Numerous Individuals charged with drug related offenses

DeKalb County Sheriff Nick Welden recently said that 31 individuals were charged with drug related offenses during the month of September.The following arrests were reported in a press release:On Friday, September 1, Officers with Ider Police Department (PD), along with Henagar Officers were conducting a traffic safety check at the intersection of County Road 134 and Bellview Road. During that time, a vehicle driven by Darrell Ray Miller (61 of Henagar) came through the check point and had a couple violations. Methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found in the vehicle. Miller was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance. Heather Kay Johnson (44 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.Again, on Friday, Officers with Geraldine PD conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 and County Road 400. After a search of the vehicle, methamphetamine, Xanax, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found. Shannon Derrick Garrard (37 of Albertville) and Keri Leann Motes (34 of Lynchburg, Tn) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd.On Wednesday, September 6, Officers with Powell PD, along with Narcotics Agents, received complaints of drug activity at a residence on Bailey Chapel Road in Sylvania. During a search of the residence, a trafficking amount of Fentanyl, pressed pills, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found. Justin Gilbreath (25 of Sylvania) and Kansas Shay Wilkerson (25 of Section) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Loitering. Jake Samuel Gilbreath (27 of Sylvania) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Loitering and Non-payment of Child Support. Jerry Ed Buttram (32 of Sylvania) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Loitering and 4 warrants for Failure to Appear. Bruce Dewayne Rowland (59 of Rainsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Elisha Delane Knight (45 of Rainsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Loitering and 3 warrants for Failure to Appear.On Thursday, September 7, Officers with Sylvania PD came into contact with Thomas Franklin Hyde Hogland (23 of Sylvania) when he walked up to and attempted to get into the Officers vehicle. Hogland was found in possession of methamphetamine and charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance.On Friday, September 8, Narcotics Agents conducted a traffic stop on Briarwood Ave finding that the driver had an active warrant with Crossville PD. Methamphetamine was found during a search of the vehicle. Edward Earl Dunn (48 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and a warrant for Failure to Appear.On Saturday, September 9, Officers with Ider PD conducted a traffic stop finding the driver to be in possession of marijuana and 27 clonazepam that she did not have a prescription for. Rebecca Jewel Hardeman (47 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd.On Thursday, September 14, Officers with Ider PD conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 near Roberts Road in Ider. Before the driver pulled over, a bag was thrown from the vehicle containing approximately 10 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Shawn Michael Galloway (45 of Fyffe) was charged with Unlawful Distribution of Controlled Substance, Tampering with Physical Evidence, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Non-payment of Child Support and a warrant for Failure to Appear. Stephanie Jean Wheeler (44 of Sylvania) and Bruce Dewayne Rowland (59 of Rainsville) were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Tampering with Physical Evidence.On Monday, September 18, Narcotics Agents responded to a residence on County Road 52 in Collinsville after complaints of drug activity were reported. Upon arrival, Agents found Raymond Lee Gibson (53 of Rainsville), Morgan Leigh Tidmore (32 of Collinsville), Thomas Allen Sanders Jr (33 of Fort Payne) and Malachi Emmanuel Vaughn (24 of Grove Oak) outside. Vaughn fled from Officers, but was soon found hiding under the house. During a search of the residence, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia were found. In a back room, Milton Labron Hulsey (45 of Collinsville) and Michelle Lynn McCullough (43 of Collinsville) were located with over 30 grams of methamphetamine, marijuana and Clonazepam, in which neither had a prescription. Gibson and Tidmore were both charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. Sanders was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Probation Violation and a warrant for Failure to Appear. Vaughn was charged with Escape 3rd, Resisting Arrest, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and a warrant for Failure to Appear. Hulsey was charged with Trafficking in any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. McCullough was charged with Trafficking in Any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Contempt of Court.On Wednesday, September 20, Narcotics Agents and Officers with Ider PD were assisting Officers with Jackson County on an investigation on County Road 141 in Flat Rock. While there, a vehicle pulled into the driveway that matched the description of one of the vehicles they were looking for. When Officers went to talk with the subject in the vehicle, there was a strong odor of marijuana coming from within. After a search, about 1.5 pounds of marijuana was found, as well as, drug paraphernalia. Aquarius Yoquita Morris (39 of Fort Payne) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 1st, Unlawful Possession of Durg Paraphernalia and 8 warrants for Failure to Appear.On Thursday, September 21, Officers with Henagar PD conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 finding Clonazepam and drug paraphernalia. Sonja Kay Mullins (46 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.On Friday, September 22. Deputies with DeKalb County conducted a traffic stop on County Road 142 finding the driver to be in possession of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Mildred Renae Kittle (60 of Albertville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia. While being booked into the DeKalb County Detention Center, drug paraphernalia was found on her person. Kittle was also charged with Promote Prison Contraband 2nd.On Saturday, September 23, Officers with Henagar PD conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 40, near County Road 85 finding 10 hits of acid, DAB, marijuana and controlled pills. Valerie Lewis (43 of Huntsville) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance (x4), Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.Again, on Saturday, Narcotics Agents responded to a residence on County Road 828 in Dawson after receiving complaints of drug activity finding methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia. Quaid Jean-Paul Stephenson (33 of Dawson) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Resisting Arrest, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Chemical Endangerment of Exposing a child (x2).On Sunday, September 24, Officers with Henagar PD conducted a traffic stop on Hwy 75 and Hwy 40 finding methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. Robert R Hair (50 of Henagar) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.On Monday, September 25, DeKalb County SRT helped conduct a search warrant at a residence on Blue Pond Blvd in Rainsville. A trafficking amount of methamphetamine, marijuana and drug paraphernalia were found inside the home. James Monroe Lee (50 OF Rainsville) was charged with Bondsman off Bond (x12), 4 warrants for Failure to Appear, Trafficking in any Illegal Drug, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, Unlawful Possession of Marijuana 2nd and Resisting Arrest.On Tuesday, September 26, DeKalb County Deputies responded to reports of a vehicle in the roadway on County Road 141. When Deputies arrived, they found Jared Lee Johnson (34 of Henagar) in the vehicle. During a search of the vehicle, methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia was found. Johnson was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance, Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia and 2 warrants for Failure to Appear.On Thursday, September 28, DeKalb County Deputies conducted a traffic stop on County Road 4 and County Road 15 in Crossville finding the driver to be in possession of gabapentin, which he did not have a prescription for. Larry Ray Richard (60 of Boaz) was charged with Unlawful Possession of Controlled Substance and Unlawful Possession of Drug Paraphernalia.

Boaz Man Arrested For Rape

A Boaz man is in custody for Rape 2nd degree.According to Etowah County Sheriff Jonathon Horton, Junior Orlando-Hernandez Lopez, has been arrested and charged with Rape in the 2nd Degree.The investigation began after a report of an illegal sexual relationship involving a 13 year old female, stated Investigator Shannon Thomas.During the course of the investigation it was revealed that the relationship involved the suspect that was 20 years old and it had been ongoing for several months. Investigator Thomas stated that Mr. Lopez knew the victim's age when he pursued the relationship.The victim was interviewed with the assistance of The Barrie Center. The offender was taken into custody without incident. Bond was set at $50,000.00 by the Etowah County District Attorney's Office and Circuit Court."I'd like to remind the public to never hesitate to contact us if they suspect or know of any such acts taking place. The information will be passed along to our investigative team," said Sheriff Horton.

Man arrested for leaving scene of fatal bicycle accident

On Monday, November 13, at approximately5:15 p.m., Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Traffic Homicide Investigation Unit (THI) located and arrested Ryan J. Jolly, age 36, of Harpersville.According to authorities, Jolly, was charged with Manslaughter and Leaving the Scene of an Accident with Death.The arrest is a result of a single-vehicle crash that occurred Thursday, November 9, at approximately6:46 p.m., in Cullman County, when bicyclist DakotaR. Lamons, age 19, of Hanceville was struck and fatally injured by a 2007 Chevrolet Silverado driven by Jolly, who allegedlyleft the scene.Nothing further is available as Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division continue to investigate.

Man Arrested for Break-in at Bethel Baptist Church

By Brandon K. Pierce | Alabama LedgerA Boaz man has been arrested for breaking into a church in DeKalb County.According to the DeKalb County Sheriff’s office, the Geraldine Police Department responded to Bethel Baptist Church on County Road 391 in regards to a Burglary on Thursday, October 26.It was reported that a male subject had broken into Bethel Baptist Church through a side window.The case was forwarded to the Dekalb County Sheriff’s Office Criminal Investigations Division and the authorities have identified the male subject and the vehicle used in the Burglary.Sheriff Nick Welden reported that Cody Alan Ramsey, age 30 of Boaz, has been arrested for Burglary 3rd and Theft of Property 4th."Thanks to the quick response from all agencies involved, this criminal was apprehended,” said Welden. " I could never express, to All the men and women in Law Enforcement, just how appreciative I am for the hard work and dedication they put into their jobs.”The Geraldine Police Department and Albertville Police Department were both involved in bringing this case to a close.

Man shot and killed after pointing weapon at police

On Friday, September 29, 2023 at the request of Decatur Police Chief Todd Pinion, Special Agents with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agency’s (ALEA) State Bureau of Investigation (SBI) launched an investigation concerning an officer-involved shooting, which involved officers with the Decatur Police Department.According to a press release, officers responded to a call in the 3000 Block of Ryan Drive, in Decatur, involving a man with a gun.The man, identified as Stephen Perkins, age 39, was found to be armed with a handgun which was also equipped with a light. During the course of the incident Perkins reportedly brandished the weapon towards an officer with the Decatur Police Department, causing the officer to fire at Perkins.Perkins was transported to a nearby medical facility where he succumbed to his injuries.Perkins’s body was transported to the Alabama Department of Forensic Science (ADFS) for an autopsy to be completed.Authorities are asking for everyone’s patience as ALEA’s SBI conducts what must be a very thorough and methodical investigation.All evidence is currently being reviewed, however, if anyone has any information to share, please call SBI’s confidential tipline at 1-800-392-8011 or email at [emailprotected].Nothing further is available as the investigation is ongoing. Once complete, the findings will be turned over to the Morgan County District Attorney’s Office.

Tennessee Man Pleads Guilty to Conspiracy to Transport Aliens

Juan Manuel Rivera-Aguilar, age 36, of Hixson, Tennessee, has pled guilty to conspiring to transport aliens for financial gain.United States Attorney Carla B. Freedman and Chief Patrol Agent Robert N. Garcia, United States Border Patrol, Swanton Sector, made the announcement.Rivera-Aguilar admitted that on April 1, 2023, he and German Ojeda-Solano drove to the U.S. side of the international border with Canada in Mooers, New York, seeking to pick up three people who had recently crossed over the border on foot without authorization. When Rivera-Aguilar and Ojeda-Solano saw U.S. Border Patrol agents searching for the people in the woods, Ojeda-Solano reversed the vehicle and began travelling south. Shortly thereafter, agents stopped their vehicle and arrested Rivera-Aguilar and Ojeda-Solano. Rivera-Aguilar admitted that he expected to be paid for transporting the three people to a destination in the United States.On September 18, 2023, Ojeda-Solano pled guilty to conspiring to transport aliens for financial gain, and was sentenced to 6 months’ imprisonment by Chief United States District Judge Brenda K. Sannes.Sentencing for Rivera-Aguilar is scheduled for February 2, 2024, before Chief Judge Sannes. Rivera-Aguilar faces up to 10 years in prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and a term of supervised release of up to 3 years. A defendant’s sentence is imposed by a judge based on the particular statute the defendant is charged with violating, the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines, and other factors.Border Patrol investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Emmet O’Hanlon is prosecuting this case.

Crime

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