Sac Valley Task Force Seizes Counterfeit Goods

A recent investigation into the trafficking of large quantities of counterfeit digital media throughout Central and Northern California conducted by the Sacramento Valley Hi-Tech Crimes Task Force led to a take down operation at a warehouse in San Jose, California.

The Hi-Tech Crimes Task force worked in conjunction with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Immigration & Customs Enforcement (ICE) and anti-piracy investigators from the Recording Industry Association of America and the Motion Picture Association of America and recovered over $2,000,000 worth of counterfeit goods (see photos below).

Investigators served a federal search warrant which led to the seizure of more than 200,000 counterfeit compact discs (CDs) and digital video discs (DVDs) and a somewhat sophisticated manufacturing operation. Among the DVDs were movies which are currently and solely in theatrical release and not yet available on DVD such as “Megamind”, “Due Date” and “Saw 3D”. These movies are typically referred to as “Bootleg” copies and are obtained by video taping the film from within a theater.

The investigation began in Galt, CA in early August and eventually led detectives to two (2) residences and a storage facility in Sacramento and two (2) residences in Modesto. Six (6) arrests were made during the course of the investigation for charges related to trafficking counterfeit goods, possession and use of counterfeit identification, identity theft and the use of fraudulent documents to conceal true citizenship. The investigation is ongoing; additional suspects have been identified and other arrest warrants are forthcoming. Thus far in this case, more than 350,000 counterfeit items, three (3) manufacturing operations and numerous counterfeit documents and identifications have been seized.

Those arrested were: Abel Zaragoza (44) of Sacramento, Victor Quiroz (22) of Modesto, Eleazar Gomez (27) of Sacramento, Carlos Tejada (31) of Sacramento, Aldo Alamilla (21) of Sacramento, and Luis Puntos (22) of Merced. Zaragoza posted a $10,000 bond and was released from custody. United States immigration holds have been placed on the remaining suspects; therefore, they are ineligible for bail.

SMF Big Build Reaches Two Million Labor Hours

The Big Build, the largest capital improvement program in Sacramento County history, has surpassed two million labor hours invested in the program from June 2008 to September 2010. To date, the hours have resulted in wages of over $75 million in paid wages.

“We would be unable to celebrate an on schedule and within budget status for the Big Build without the contributions of the talented team of contractors, subcontractors and the many men and women working on this project,” said Hardy Acree, Director of Airports. “We appreciate their contributions to a state-of-the-art facility that will serve this region for years to come.”

The Big Build is progressing quickly and safely. In March, prime contractor Austin-Walsh received the Cal/OSHA Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP). The Big Build has the lowest rate of incidents (3.1) and Days Away, Restricted or Transferred from Work (2.3). Industry-wide, the rate is normally 5.4 for incidents and 3.3 for Days Away, Restricted or Transferred from Work.

Wittkop Way Homicide Suspect Arrested

On November 28, 2010, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department Major Crimes Bureau detectives arrested 18-year-old Luis Prudente for the November 27, 2010, murder of 15-year-old Jesse Dean Jones and the attempted murder of a 15-year-old female juvenile. Detectives arrested Prudente, without incident, at his home which is located in the 2600 block of Howe Avenue.

On November 27, 2010, at 2:04 a.m., Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to the report of a shooting on Wittkop Way near Clinton Road. Deputies arrived and found two victims who had been shot. Jones was lying on the ground and had been shot in the abdomen. The second victim, a 15-year-old female, had been shot in the foot. Paramedics transported both victims to a local hospital. Jones died shortly after arriving at the hospital. The female victim was treated and released from the hospital.

Sheriff’s Homicide detectives have learned the two victims were walking on Wittkop Way when a vehicle drove up to them. The vehicle stopped and detectives believe Prudente got out of the vehicle, exchanged words with Jones and then fired multiple shots at the victims. Prudente got back into the vehicle and drove away after the shooting. After interviewing Prudente, detectives believe the shooting was motivated by rival gang affiliations. Further investigation revealed there was a second suspect in the vehicle at the time of the shooting and detectives are working to identify, locate, and arrest this suspect.

Anyone with information regarding the identity and whereabouts of the second suspect involved in this shooting is urged to call Sheriff’s Homicide detectives at (916) 874-5115, or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP. Tipsters may also send a text message tip by texting to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter SACTIP followed by the tip information. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

Prudente was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail and charged with murder and attempted murder. He is ineligible for bail and is scheduled to be arraigned on November 30, 2010, at 1:30 p.m. in Department 62.

Sweet Ice Cream Voucher Deal at Leartherby's Creamery

Leatherby's famous banana split

Today's SMN's  Daily Deal is really sweet!

Purchase a voucher good towards $17 at Leatherby's Creamery for only $8! The deal is available now through Sunday night and up to two vouchers can be purchased. There is also an option for the vouchers to be sent as a gift.

This is a perfect item for an office gift exchange. Thanks for your consideration.

Two Additional Suspects Arrested In Connection To Howe Ave. Murder

Fitima Laqish Goodman

On November 22, 2010, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department Major Crimes Bureau detectives arrested 36-year-old Fitima Laqish Goodman at a home in the 3600 block of Marysville Boulevard. On the same date, a 15-year-old male juvenile was arrested by Fresno Police Department officers at his father’s home in Fresno, California.

Both suspects were arrested for their involvement in the June 15, 2010 robbery and murder of 50-year-old Fernando Vichez.

On September 30, 2010, 22-year-old Jermaine Antonio Barnes was the first suspect arrested in connection to the crime.

On June 15, 2010, at 1:42 a.m., the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department’s received a call regarding gunshots heard in the area of Howe Avenue and Whippoorwill Lane. A deputy performing a vehicle stop in the area heard the gunshots and drove to that location.

The deputy discovered Vichez lying in the street and suffering from multiple gunshot wounds. The deputy performed cardio pulmonary resuscitation on Vichez until paramedics arrived and transported him to a local hospital where he was pronounced dead a short time later.

Witnesses told investigators Vichez was walking on Howe Avenue when a vehicle stopped and the suspects got out, approached the victim and started fighting with him. During the fight, one of the suspects produced an unknown type gun, shot the victim multiple times, and robbed him. The suspects then got back into the vehicle and fled from the scene.

Goodman was booked into the Sacramento County Main Jail on the charges of murder and robbery. She is ineligible for bail and is scheduled to be arraigned on November 24, 2010, at 1:30 p.m. in Department 62. The juvenile suspect is being held in Fresno. Sacramento Sheriff’s Department officials are working with the Fresno authorities to have the juvenile returned to Sacramento where he will also face the charges of murder and robbery.

Killer gets 50 to life for Citrus Heights murder

District Attorney Jan Scully announced that Edgar Martinez was sentenced by the Honorable Cheryl Chun Meegan to 50 years to life in prison after a jury convicted the defendant of first degree murder and the allegation that the defendant personally discharged a firearm causing death.

In the early morning hours of September 8, 2007, Martinez became involved in an argument with Jose Segura at a house on Van Maren Lane in Citrus Heights. During the argument, Martinez shot Mr. Segura four times, killing him. Martinez then fled to Mexico.

Citrus Heights Police Department detectives worked diligently to identify and locate Martinez following the crime. He was extradited back to the United States to stand trial in May, 2009.

Sacramento Police Warn of Sexual Predator

The Sacramento Police Department is investigating four incidents where a suspect robbed and then demanded the female victims expose themselves.

The four incidents occurred on Monday, November 22, 2010, between 6:30 p.m. and 7:40 p.m., in the area near Fruitridge and Power Inn Road. At this time it is believed that the suspect is the same person in all four incidents. The suspect is described as a male Black adult in his 20’s, 5’6”-6’0” tall, thin, wearing a ski mask, black hooded sweatshirt or jacket, dark colored jeans, and armed with a gun.

The following are summaries of the four incidents:

Quonset Drive/ 25th Avenue - At approximately 6:30 p.m., the female victim was getting out of her vehicle when the suspect approached armed with a gun. The suspect attempted to rob the victim at which time she activated her car alarm causing the suspect to flee.

- At approximately 6:31 p.m., the female victim was walking when she was approached by the suspect armed with a gun. The suspect attempted to commit a robbery but the victim did not have any property. The suspect then demanded the victim expose herself. The victim complied and the suspect fled on foot.

Quonset Drive/ 25th Avenue

Fruitridge Road/ Wilkinson Street - At approximately 7:00 p.m., the female victim was getting out of her vehicle when she was approached by the suspect armed with a gun. The suspect took the victim’s property and then demanded that she expose herself. The victim complied and then began to scream, as a car approached, causing the suspect to flee.

Fruitridge Road/ Wilkinson Street - At approximately 7:39 p.m., the female victim was walking in an apartment complex parking lot when she was approached by the suspect armed with a gun. The suspect demanded the victim expose herself. Prior to the victim complying with his demands, the suspect fled possibly due to a nearby resident coming outside.

Police are also investigating whether a prior incident that occurred on November 13, 2010 at 9:30 p.m., in the area of 76th Street/ 25th Avenue is related to the above incidents. This incident involved a female victim who was walking when she was approached by a suspect (male Black, 20’s, 5’6, 120 lbs, dark clothing, on a bicycle) who indicated he was armed with a gun. The suspect demanded the victim expose herself and then sexually assaulted her before fleeing.

The Sacramento Police Department has dedicated numerous resources to investigate these incidents. The following are some tips to help prevent being victimized:

1) Be vigilant and call in any suspicious activity or subject (s)

2) Always be aware of your surroundings before parking or getting out of your car. Best to drive away and call the police if there is anyone suspicious in area.

3) Try to walk in well lit and well traveled areas.

4) If possible, do not walk alone.

5) If you are victimized, call the police immediately.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to these crimes to contact Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or text in a tip to 274637 (CRIMES). Enter SACTIP followed by the tip information. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

Sacramento Police Search For Missing Couple

Faaiza Castellanos

The Sacramento Police Department is asking for help locating a missing  Sacramento couple last seen on November 2, 2010.

On November 10, 2010, 31-year-old Faaiza Castellanos was reported missing by her employer after failing to report to work. Faaiza had taken personal time-off of work and was last seen by her employer on November 2, 2010. Family, friends and neighbors also reported not seeing Faaiza since that date.

During the investigation, Detectives learned that Faaiza’s husband, 32-year-old Julio Cesar Castellanos was also missing and has not been seen since November 2, 2010. The circumstances surrounding the couple’s disappearance is not clearly known at this time. The couple may be traveling in a black 2000 Honda Accord LX.



Faaiza Castellanos is 5’6” tall and weighs 130 pounds. She has brown hair and brown eyes. Julio Cesar Castellanos is 5’5” tall and weighs 140 pounds.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to the disappearance of this couple to contact Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or text in a tip to 274637 (CRIMES). Enter SACTIP

followed by the tip information.

Gangbangers sentenced for Sacramento shooting death

District Attorney Jan Scully announced that Manuel Alvarez, Jr., Edward Garcia and Hector Garcia were sentenced by the Honorable Greta Curtis Fall after a jury convicted the defendants of first degree murder, two counts of attempted murder and the allegation that the crimes were committed for the benefit of the Norteno criminal street gang.

Alvarez was sentenced to 132 years 8 months to life, Edward Garcia was sentenced to 109 years 4 months to life and Hector Garcia, who had a prior strike conviction for carjacking, was sentenced to 143 years 8 months to life.

In August 2007, Alvarez, Hector Garcia, Edward Garcia and other Varrio Gardenland Norteno gang members arranged to fight a group of men following a road rage incident earlier that day. The arranged fight took place in the middle of Eleanor Avenue, in front of a birthday party for a one year-old child. Shortly after the fight erupted, Alvarez shot 13 rounds at the victims’ group with a .40 caliber handgun. Stephen “Bo” Clay was shot in the back and died at the scene. Gary Motheral and Ali Khan were struck by bullets but survived.

Sacramento Police Department homicide detectives worked tirelessly to locate and interview the participants in the fight and were able to identify the shooter and key co-conspirators. Deputy District Attorney Sean Laird said, “The verdict and sentences in this case reflect the seriousness of these crimes. Justice will be served for those who resort to extreme violence on our city streets as an answer to perceived acts of disrespect.”

Second Payroll Services Company Official Pleads Guilty in $20 Million Fraud

Scheme Defrauded Sacramento County and Others

United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced today that Kerry Seaman, 35, of Lake Ronkoukoma, N.Y., pleaded guilty today in connection with a scheme to divert more than $20 million from Sacramento County as well as two other businesses: SanDisk Corporation (SanDisk) and The Stanley Works and Stanley Solutions Inc. (Stanley). She entered her guilty plea before United States District Judge Garland E. Burrell Jr. Co-defendant and CEO Albert Cipoletti entered a guilty plea to the fraud on October 29, 2010.

This case is the product of an extensive investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation. The County of Sacramento reported the offense to federal law enforcement and has assisted with the investigation. Assistant United States Attorney S. Robert Tice-Raskin is prosecuting the case.

According to court documents, Seaman was the comptroller of Ingentra HR Services Inc. (Ingentra), a payroll services corporation in Hauppauge, N.Y. Ingentra, then known as Humanic Solutions Inc., was hired by Sacramento County in late 2004 to process the payrolls for Sacramento County’s Special Districts (including the Sacramento Metropolitan Fire District, the cemetery district, the parks and recreation district, independent contractors, and various elected officials). As part of the payroll services, Ingentra calculated the tax payments for the clients and the clients’ employees and then transmitted the payments to the state and federal tax authorities. Ingentra was responsible for paying the income tax withholdings to the IRS and to file the Employer’s Quarterly Federal Tax Form (Form 941) with the IRS on behalf of the clients. (Form 941 includes totals for number of employees, total pay for the period being reported, and amounts withheld from the pay of the employees.)

As stated in the plea agreement, from 2005 until April 2010, Seaman and co-defendant Cipoletti, Chief Executive Officer for Ingentra, devised a scheme to defraud the County of Sacramento - Special Districts, SanDisk, and Stanley of the tax withholdings intended to be payed to the IRS by collecting the correct amount from the clients but underreporting to the IRS the amount owed and diverting the difference to Ingentra’s operating account for its own use.

According to the plea agreement, Seaman and Cipoletti sent funding letters to the clients that correctly calculated payroll and federal tax withholdings for the clients’ employees, and these clients wire transferred funds to Ingentra for the purposes of paying both the payroll and taxes. Seaman and Cipoletti then filed false 941s to the IRS, understating the true employee tax withholdings for these clients. Seaman and Cipoletti then wrongfully diverted in excess of $20 million in tax withholdings from clients Stanley, SanDisk, and Sacramento County that should have been remitted to the IRS on behalf of these clients and these clients’ employees.

Seaman is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Burrell on March 25, 2011 at 9:00 a.m. Cipoletti is scheduled to be sentenced by Judge Burrell on January 21, 2011 at 9:00 a.m.

The maximum statutory penalty for this wire fraud violation is 20 years in prison and a fine of up to approximately $35 million (two times the pecuniary loss). The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

Old Sacramento Tree Lighting Kicks off the Historic District’s Theatre of Lights on Nov. 24

Mayor Johnson to “Flip the Switch” at 6:30 p.m.

OLD SACRAMENTO – The holidays are starting to take shape in Old Sacramento with the arrival of the 50-foot, 7,000 lb. Blue Spruce that will become the Old Sacramento Christmas Tree. Taking center stage, the tree from Carlton Christmas Trees in Burney, California is positioned at Front and K streets, and is the centerpiece of the holiday decorations adorning the streets of Old Sacramento. Returning for its second year, the Theatre of Lights is in the midst of nightly dress rehearsals prior to opening night on November 24.

“The delivery of our tree signifies the official start of the holidays in Old Sacramento,” said Old Sacramento Business Association Executive Director Melissa Martinez. “Over the next several weeks, we will be hard at work decorating the tree, sprucing up the district and setting up for the Theatre of Lights.”

The Old Sacramento Tree Lighting will take place on November 24 at Front and K streets. The ceremony will begin at 6:00 p.m. and feature live performances by the Salvation Army Band, a visit from Father Christmas and much more. Visitors can join the fun and watch as Mayor Kevin Johnson flips the switch to light the tree and kick off the Theatre of Lights at 6:30 p.m.

Event-goers will enjoy the Old Sacramento Theatre of Lights for its second season. At 6:30 pm, a symphony of lights, sounds and visual effects will take the audience back to a time when the beloved poem The Night Before Christmas was first introduced in Sacramento in 1857. Mark S. Allen, Emmy-winning entertainment host of Good Day Sacramento and Mark at the Movies, will join the fun as our celebrity guest “Papa”.

Beginning Nov. 26, Old Sacramento’s Theatre of Lights will the 20-minute light show at 6:00 pm and 7:30 pm every Thursday through Sunday throughout the holiday season.

New this year, Old Sacramento’s Theatre of Lights will celebrate “enhanced nights” with a visit from Santa Claus in The Christmas Shoppe following the performances, living history characters, and themed street vendors with traditional treats like spiced nuts and hot cocoa.

Sac Airport Deputies Arrest Fake Cop

Frank Don Crandall was arrested yesterday.

On September 8, 2010, Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department deputies assigned to the Sacramento International Airport contacted 56-year-old West Sacramento resident Frank Don Crandall after he struck an airport employee with his vehicle and left the scene without stopping. When the deputies contacted Crandall he presented identification that recognized him as a full time peace officer for a private California public safety agency, the “Law Enforcement and Public Safety Authority” (LEPSA).

The deputies issued Crandall a citation for Reckless Driving Causing Injury and began their follow up investigation into Crandall’s alleged peace officer status. During a lengthy follow-up investigation, the deputies were unable to find any evidence of LEPSA’s existence. As a result of their investigation deputies determined Crandall lacked proper training and certification and had no authority to act as, or identify himself as a peace officer. The case was presented to the District Attorney’s Office and a warrant was issued for Crandall’s arrest.

On November 10, 2010, deputies arrested Crandall without incident at his West Sacramento home. He was booked (see booking photo below) into the Sacramento County Main Jail on the charges of impersonating a peace officer (a misdemeanor) and forging a state seal (a felony). Crandall is scheduled to be arraigned Friday.

Salvation Army celebrates 28th anniversary of Elk Grove Christmas CanTree

The annual tradition of the construction of the Christmas CanTree will officially take place on Monday, November 22 at the Secret Garden in Elk Grove (8450 West Stockton Blvd.). The creation of the CanTree will occur from 7:30 to 9 a.m.

The Christmas CanTree is an annual fundraising drive sponsored by the Sacramento Association of REALTORS (SAR), which culminates in building giant Christmas trees made entirely of canned foods. The trees are symbolic of SAR’s fundraising efforts year-round. Each tree will be made up of more than 18,000 cans.

Money raised by SAR benefit The Salvation Army’s food pantry in Sacramento. Since its start in 1983, The Christmas CanTree project has evolved into a series of year-round fundraising activities. SAR has collected more than $2 million in the last 27 years.

Along with the Elk Grove location, Christmas CanTrees will also be constructed at Country Club Plaza and Sunrise Mall on November 23.

Sac PD Air 1 copter helps locate Elk Grove domestic violence suspect

An Elk Grove man was apprehended yesterday afternoon with assistance from the Sacramento Police Department helicopter following a domestic violence incident.

According to Elk Grove Police Department reports, officers responded to a domestic violence call yesterday afternoon and found the suspect, 20-year old Angel Barreno of Elk Grove had an active felony arrest warrant. Responding officers found that Barreno had fled the area on foot.

Officers established an area perimeter and with the assistance of the Sacramento Police Department's Air 1, located the suspect hiding in a nearby backyard. Barreno was arrested and transferred to the county jail.

Echiburu named Elk Grove planning director

Elk Grove City Manager Laura S. Gill announced Taro Echiburu has been selected as the City’s Planning Director. Echiburu replaces Don Hazen who was dismissed earlier this year.

Echiburu has worked for the City of Elk Grove for more than seven years, most recently serving as the contract Interim Planning Director.

“With more than a decade of experience as a highly respected planner, Taro is uniquely qualified to implement the Council’s vision for Elk Grove,” Gill said. “Taro’s insight, leadership and institutional knowledge will be instrumental in achieving the City’s planning goals for smart growth, sustainability, land use and the protection of natural resources.”

As Planning Director, Echiburu will manage the operations of the Planning Department, including current and future development initiatives, and serve as a technical advisor to the Elk Grove Planning Commission. In addition, he will be tasked with improving the development review process, enhancing customer service, increasing public participation in the planning process and collaborating with outside agencies.

“It’s an honor and privilege to have the opportunity to lead the City’s Planning Department,” Echiburu said. “I’m looking forward to implementing the Elk Grove City Council’s forward-thinking goals that balance smart growth and environmental stewardship.”

With more than 15 years of professional experience, Echiburu was previously employed by the County of Monterey and the California Coastal Commission.

Echiburu holds a Master’s degree in International Environmental Policy from the Monterrey Institute of International Studies. He will officially begin as Planning Director on November 22.

Sacramento Police Department seeks help identifying robbery suspect

The Sacramento Police Department is asking for help identifying a suspect wanted for robbery.

On Tuesday, November 2, 2010, at 4:55 a.m., the victim was riding a bike in the area of Cantalier Street and Del Paso Boulevard. The two suspects were in the area on foot and followed the victim. At one point, the suspects caught up to the victim and one of them held a knife to the victim’s throat.

He then reached into the victim’s pockets and took his wallet and cell phone. The victim left his bike and ran. The suspect took the victim’s bike and chased him but was able to get away.

The main robbery suspect was described as a male White adult, 19-20 years old, 5’5” tall, 120 lbs, with short brown hair, wearing a black jacket. The picture below shows a unique design on the back of the jacket. The second suspect was described as a male White adult, 19-20 years old, 6’0” tall and 140 lbs.

The Sacramento Police Department is hoping that someone will recognize the suspect and come forward with information needed to identify him.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to this crime to contact Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or text in a tip to 274637 (CRIMES). Enter SACTIP followed by the tip information. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

Do You Know These Thieves?

On October 25, 1010, at 12:42 p.m., Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department deputies responded to the Thomas Edison Elementary School at 1500 Dom Way to take a theft report. Two teachers reported their wallets had been stolen from their purses while they were out of their classrooms. The school’s video surveillance cameras captured images (see photos/video below) of the suspects as they walked on the campus at the time of the thefts.

Detectives learned during their follow up investigation the same two suspects, on the same day, just minutes after the thefts occurred at the school, were identified as suspects using credit cards stolen from the school at a nearby drug store.

The suspects are described as Black female adults, 25 to 35-years old, 5’5” to 5’8” tall, with medium builds. Suspect 1 had her hair pulled back in a pony tail. Suspect 2 had short black hair. The two suspects were confronted by the drug store’s loss-prevention officer who saw them drive away in a full-size blue Ford Econoline van.

Detectives believe these suspects may be tied to other similar theft cases they are investigating. Anyone who knows the identities, or whereabouts, of these two thieves is urged to call the Sacramento County Sheriff’s Department at (916) 874-5115, or Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP. Tipsters may also send a text message tip by texting to 274637 (CRIMES) then enter SACTIP followed by the tip information. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.

California Woman Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Human Trafficking Charge

Daughter, Son-in-Law Sentenced on Immigration Charges

Fang Ping Ding was sentenced in federal court late yesterday to 37 months in prison for confiscating the passport, visa and other documents of a woman from the People’s Republic of China in order to maintain control over the victim and force her to work as an unpaid, live-in domestic servant.

 During the same hearing, Ding’s daughter, Wei Wei Liang, and her son-in-law, Bo Shen, were sentenced to home confinement and probationary sentences, respectively, on related immigration charges of harboring the victim, who entered and remained in the United States illegally, in their Fremont, Calif., home. The court also ordered that the defendants jointly pay the victim $83,866.61 and that Liang and Shen also forfeit $346,000 to the government.

Forced labor

Sacramento Man arrested in $11 million Ponzi scheme

United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced today that Christopher Jackson, 43, of Sacramento, was arrested on a complaint charging wire fraud. Jackson appeared today before Magistrate Judge Gregory G. Hollows and was released on pretrial conditions that include a bar on his selling investments of any kind.

The complaint alleges that between 2005 and 2009, Jackson, using the corporate name Genesis Innovations, recruited people to invest in real estate. The complaint further alleges that Jackson promised investors a 14 percent annual rate of return and convinced them to entrust him with their retirement savings.

According to the complaint, Jackson received about $11 million dollars from investors, but only invested about $2.5 million in real estate. The complaint states that the rest of the money was used to distribute purported investment returns and to fund Jackson’s lavish lifestyle, which included a leased Lamborghini and Range Rover, a purchased BMW, frequent meals at high-end restaurants, stays at luxury hotels, and jewelry.

This case is the product of an extensive investigation by the FBI and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Matthew D. Segal. The maximum statutory penalty for a violation of wire fraud is 20 years and a fine of the greater of $250,000 or twice the gain or loss from the offense. Any sentence will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

The charges are only allegations and the defendant is presumed innocent until and unless proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.

Anyone who has invested money with Chris Jackson in the last six months is encouraged to contact the FBI at 916-481-9110.

Mayor Kevin Johnson and County Supervisors Roger Dickinson and Roberta MacGlashan Mark 1-Year Anniversary of ‘Sacramento Steps Forward’

Today Mayor Kevin Johnson and Supervisors Roger Dickinson and Roberta MacGlashan were joined by members of the business, nonprofits, faith, and philanthropic communities at Serna Village to celebrate the one-year anniversary of ‘Sacramento Steps Forward’ (SSF), a regional initiative created to find comprehensive solutions to homelessness.

“One year ago, at Martin Luther King Village, our community came together to reenergize our collective efforts to combat homelessness. Our goal was clear: to end homelessness in Sacramento. While we’ve made significant progress, there is much more to do before we achieve the comprehensive, long-term solution we need,” said Mayor Johnson.

Great success

Sacramento Sheriff's Santa Claus Project

Since its inception in 1995, the Sheriff’s Santa Claus Project, started by detective Mike Wright and retired sergeant Steve Gralian, has expanded beyond Kaiser Hospitals to include Angel Tree, W.E.A.V.E. and Gifts from the Heart.

Santa Mike now visits the homes of families with children diagnosed with a terminal illness and families with special needs, as determined by the staff of Kaiser Hospital and the Sheriff’s Department’s Child Abuse Bureau. Kaiser recognized that Santa’s hospital visits had such a positive impact on the children that it was important for Santa to visit these terminally ill children in their homes. Santa Mike graciously took on this task, with the support of the Sheriff’s Department and Kaiser Hospitals, and relying on his own resources and donations from the Sheriff’s Department and County employees, local stores and the Sacramento community.

The Sheriff’s Santa Claus Project now operates on a year-round basis. However, the project does something extra special for local families with children receiving oncology treatments during the Christmas season. Santa and his elves personally visit with every child they encounter at Kaiser Hospital. They deliver stockings stuffed full of goodies during the week of Christmas and Santa visits emergency rooms and other areas of the hospital where children are admitted.

Sheriff’s deputies use donated funds to purchase gifts from local stores and they gather toys donated by the Sheriff’s Toy Project. Deputies meet the week before Christmas, at Santa Mike’s home, to wrap donated toys and gifts. The gifts are then placed into Christmas stockings, hand-made from the Sheriff’s Toy Project.

The week before Christmas, Santa Mike delivers toys, clothing, and Christmas stockings. He is accompanied by Mrs. Claus, several elves, and many Sheriff’s Deputies as they deliver special “wish list” items to the children and the parents. In each home they take photographs for the family with Santa and his elves.

Santa and his elves will be delivering Christmas toys starting on December 11, 2010, and finishing December 31, 2010. For more information about, or to make a donation to, the Sheriff’s Santa Claus Project, please contact project coordinator detective Michael Wright at (916) 874-5848 or by email at mwright@sacsheriff.com.

Too much turkey no excuse for not buckling up

Special Click It or Ticket Enforcement Mobilization Aimed at Seat Belt Use & Saving Lives

With the holidays upon us and millions of Americans hitting the roads, the Elk Grove Police Department wants everyone to arrive safely at their destinations.  Drivers and passengers need to know that officers will be out in force sending the strong message to “Click It or Ticket”.   

“No one wants to start the holidays off wrong with a ticket,” Elk Grove Police Chief Robert Lehner said.  “Save your money for turkey and buying presents for loved ones – don’t throw it away simply because you failed to buckle up.”

 

While seat belt use is at a record high of 83 percent nationwide, 45 million Americans still fail to buckle up when they get in a motor vehicle. Even though in California 96.2 percent use their restraints, it still means that over 1.5 million Californians don’t buckle up.

During the holiday period, over 35 vehicle occupants who are not buckled up will be killed in motor vehicle crashes each day nationwide. Statewide, overall traffic deaths declined by 23 percent, from 3,995 in 2007 to 3,081 in 2009 due in part to the increased use of seat belts. Total traffic fatalities are at their lowest levels in six decades.

“Sadly, the holidays, which for many are the happiest time of the year, is also one of the deadliest and most tragic,” Lehner said.  

“Regular seat belt use is the single most effective way to protect people and reduce fatalities in motor vehicle crashes,” Christopher J. Murphy Director of the California Office of Traffic safety said. “Law enforcement estimates indicate that over 1300 Californians survived by buckling up last year. Sadly however, about 150 others will not be gathering with families during the holidays because they choose not to use their seat belts.”

National statistics also show that those least likely to buckle up are teens, young adults, males, nighttime riders, motorists traveling on rural roads, and individuals traveling in pickup trucks.

More than 100 local law enforcement agencies statewide and the CHP will be participating in this year’s Click It or Ticket mobilization. Funding to support California’s Click It or Ticket campaign was provided by a grant from the California Office of Traffic Safety through the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.

 

Prominent Sacramento realtor Michael Lyon arrested

Alleged to have filmed sexual encounters

District Attorney Jan Scully announced today the arrest of Michael P. Lyon on four felony offenses as a result of a joint investigation by the District Attorney’s Office and the Sacramento Sheriff’s Department.

Mr. Lyon, age 54, is charged with four separate violations of California Penal Code section 632(a), recording confidential communications, based upon surreptitious filming of sexual encounters he had with three different women in 2008 and 2009.

Copies of the felony complaint and the arrest warrant affidavit filed in court may be accessed at the web link below. Section 632(a) is punishable by imprisonment in the county jail not exceeding one year, or up to

three years in state prison, and a fine of up to $10,000.

The District Attorney’s Office will have no further comment because this is a pending case. View complaint and arrest warrant affidavit.

Sacramento Man Sentenced for Sex Trafficking of a Minor

United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced that United States District Judge Frank C. Damrell today sentenced Marvin Chavelle Epps, 24, of Sacramento, to 12 years and seven months in federal prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release for the sex trafficking of a minor in interstate commerce. Epps will be required to register as a sex offender and adhere to numerous other conditions while on supervised release.

On April 12, 2010, Epps pleaded guilty to one count of sex trafficking of a minor girl who was 16 at the time she worked for him as a prostitute. According to court documents, Epps first contacted the girl on the social networking site Myspace.

During his Internet communications with her, he promoted himself as a pimp and encouraged the girl to travel from her home in Solano County to Sacramento where she could work for him. After she traveled to Sacramento, the girl worked for Epps for approximately three weeks in October 2008. Evidence revealed Epps used websites to advertise the girl and to solicit sex dates for her from a north Sacramento motel.

This case was the product of an extensive investigation by the FBI’s Innocence Lost Task Force, a task force composed of Sacramento City Police detectives and FBI special agents targeting child prostitution in the greater Sacramento area. Assistant United States Attorney Laurel D. White prosecuted the case.

Indictment Unsealed in Redding Mortgage Fraud Investigation

United States Attorney Benjamin B. Wagner announced today that a 13-count indictment was unsealed today charging Douglas Heald, of Sacramento; Brandon Hanly, of Redding; and Jerad Maggi in a scheme to defraud mortgage lenders.

This case is the product of an extensive investigation by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew D. Segal and Jared C. Dolan are prosecuting the case.

The indictment alleges that in 2005 and 2006, the defendants altered appraisal documents and title reports in order to obtain $5 million in mortgage loans with $1.5 million in "cash out" loans that would not have been made but for their fraud. Nine of the mortgaged properties were in Redding and one was in Lodi.

Heald and Hanley self-surrendered today and were arraigned before United States Magistrate Judge Gregory G. Hollows today. They pleaded not guilty and are set to appear before U.S. District Judge William B. Shubb on December 21, 2010. Maggi is sought by the FBI.

The case stems from the successful prosecution of Joshua Gervolstad, a Redding mortgage broker who on July 12, 2010 was sentenced to three years in prison and ordered to pay $1.4 million in restitution.

The maximum statutory penalty for a violation of mail fraud and wire fraud is 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The maximum statutory penalty for money laundering is 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. The actual sentence, however, will be determined at the discretion of the court after consideration of any applicable statutory factors and the Federal Sentencing Guidelines, which take into account a number of variables.

Movies with Maricor: Nowhere Boy

by Maricor Capulong

Directed by: Sam Taylor Wood
Starring: Kristin Scott Thomas, Aaron Johnson, and Anne-Marie Duff

Aaron Johnson as John Lennon in "Nowhere Boy"

Nowhere boy emphasizes the life of John Lennon (Aaron Johnson) during his High School, pre-Beatles era, mid-Quarry Men stardom. It give us a closer look at the anguish and turmoil a teenage boy experiences, being pitted in-between two parental juggernauts, one his birth mother Julia (Anne Marie Duff) who had left him at a young age due to marriage discourse with John's father, and his Aunt Mimi (his mother's sister, Kristin Scott Thomas) who had raised him as her own.

Continued...

Racho Cordova Parks 7 rec to host Thanksgiving Dinner

Cordova Recreation and Park District is hosting a Thanksgiving feast with all of the fixings!

This holiday event will be held on Wednesday, November 24th from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

All ages are welcome to dine on delicious turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, yams, corn and homemade pumpkin pie. Families are encouraged to attend.

Join us at the Cordova Senior Activities Center for a fantastic homemade meal. For more information or for reservations, please call 366-3133.

Thanksgiving Feast

Wednesday, November 24

11:30 am – 12:30 pm

Cordova Senior Activities Center

3480 Routier Road, Sacramento

$6 in advance, $9 at the door

For more information, please call 366-3133

SAC PD Seek Safety Vest Bank Robbers

The Sacramento Police Department is currently investigating two bank robberies where the suspects wore safety vests while robbing banks.

On November 4, 2010, at 9:15 a.m., officers responded to the 300 block of Howe Avenue on a bank robbery. Two suspects entered the bank, hit an employee, and stole money before fleeing.

The suspects were described as male Blacks, in their 20’s, wearing yellow neon safety vests and masks to cover their mouth area. No weapon was seen during the robbery.

On September 9, 2010, at 9:08 a.m., officers responded to the 3600 block of N. Freeway Blvd on a bank robbery. Three suspects entered the bank, one of the suspect’s held the employees at gun point while the other two stole money.

The suspects were described as male Blacks, in their 20’s, wearing orange safety vests and dust masks to cover their mouth area.

Detectives are currently investigating whether both incidents are connected.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to this crime to contact Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or text in a tip to 274637 (CRIMES).

Big Build generates big hours at Sac International

Two million paid labor hours invested to date for new airport terminal

The Big Build, the largest capital improvement program in Sacramento County history, has surpassed two million labor hours invested in the program from June 2008 September 2010. To date, the hours have resulted in wages of over $75 million in paid wages.

“We would be unable to celebrate an on schedule and within budget status for the Big Build without the contributions of the talented team of contractors, subcontractors and the many men and women working on this project,” Hardy Acree, Director of Airports said. “We appreciate their contributions to a state -of-the-art facility that will serve this region for years to come.”

The Big Build is progressing quickly and safely. In March, prime contractor Austin-Walsh received the Cal/OSHA Safety and Health Achievement Recognition Program (SHARP). The Big Build has the lowest rate of incidents (3.1) and Days Away, Restricted or Transferred from Work (2.3). Industry-wide, the rate is normally 5.4 for incidents and 3.3 for Days Away, Restricted or Transferred from Work.

“This historic project is an economic boon to Sacramento County today and in the future,” Roger Dickinson, Chair of the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors said. “Jobs created by the Big Build and the airport’s future growth are welcome, especially during this period of economic challenges.”

Over the course of the Big Build, 2400 jobs will be created and the construction program will produce $2 billion in economic impact for Sacramento County. By 2020, the new terminal is anticipated to have an annual impact of $2.6 billion and 16,500 jobs. The new terminal complex at Sacramento International Airport will open to the public in late 2011.

Sacramento International Airport was the 43rd busiest North American Airport in 2009 with approximately 8.9 million passengers.

Brewer maintains narrow leadin Cosumnes CSD race

With all precincts reporting, Rod Brewer maintains the lead in the four-way race for two open seats on the Cosumnes Community Services District (CCSD).


(WITH 140 OF 140 PRECINCTS COUNTED)
ROD BREWER . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12,193    29.74%
DOUGLAS MCELROY . . . . . . . .  11,818    28.82%
RICHARD "RICH" LOZANO . . . .    11,793    28.76%
CLIFF LOVELAND. . . . . . . . .  . .   5,078      12.38%
WRITE-IN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .      123     .30%
Under Votes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34,521


Because of the narrow lead Brewer has over Doug McElroy and Rich Lozano, and the number of uncounted ballots yet to be processed, the final outcome of this race may not be determined for several days.

Elk Grove Police stay busy on election day

While voters were out casting votes on Tuesday, Elk Grove Police were busy making several arrests.

According to police department reports, five arrests were made. The arrests included one DUI event, one probation violation for possession of narcotics, a domestic violence incident and two arrests for active warrants.

The two separate arrests for active warrants came after patrol officers stopped vehicles for code violations. Arrested were 19-year old Gamaliel Morales of Rancho Cordova and 18-year old Tomvu Hoang of Sacramento.

All the suspects were transferred to the county jail.

1-800 CALL JERRY;will history repeat itself?

Tomorrow Jerry Brown could make history by being both the oldest and youngest person elected Governor of California.

To mark this event, Elk Grove News correspondent Tom Nadeau of Notable Trials dusted off an old copy of 1-800 CALL JERRY: A Hilarious Look at Jerry Brown On the Campaign Trail."

This book dates from the early 90's and was photographed by Peter Stein with Nadeau writing the captions. 

We hope you enjoy this bit of election-eve humor.

 See the complete collection below, and yes, they are copyright protected!

See the entire book below and enjoy a good laugh.

Sac Police investigating Halloween night murder

On Sunday, October 31, 2010, at 8:42 p.m., sacramento Police Department officers responded to the 2300 block of Harris Avenue regarding a report of a person shot. Officers arrived and found a man in his 30's with an apparent gunshot wound. He was declared deceased at the scene.

Homicide Detectives and Crime Scene Investigators responded to the scene and based on the preliminary investigation, it appears that a friend came over to the victim's house and found him shot. At this time the motive for this homicide is unknown.

The Sacramento Police Department urges anyone with information pertaining to this crime to contact Crime Alert at (916) 443-HELP or text in a tip to 274637 (CRIMES). Enter SACTIP followed by the tip information. Callers can remain anonymous and may be eligible for a reward of up to $1,000.