OLI SEES PHYTOPLANKTON BLOOM NEAR ALASKAN ISLANDS

FROM:  NASA 

The Operational Land Imager (OLI) on Landsat 8 captured this view of a phytoplankton bloom near Alaska’s Pribilof Islands on Sept. 22, 2014. The Pribilofs are surrounded by nutrient-rich waters in the Bering Sea. The milky green and light blue shading of the water indicates the presence of vast populations of microscopic phytoplankton—mostly coccolithophores, which have calcite scales that appear white in satellite images. Such phytoplankton form the foundation of a tremendously productive habitat for fish and birds. Blooms in the Bering Sea increase significantly in springtime, after winter ice cover retreats and nutrients and freshened water are abundant near the ocean surface. Phytoplankton populations plummet in summertime as the water warms, surface nutrients are depleted by blooms, and the plant-like organisms are depleted by grazing fish, zooplankton, and other marine life. By autumn, storms can stir nutrients back to the surface and cooler waters make better bloom conditions.  Image Credit: NASA/Landsat 8.

NASA VIDEO: LIFTOFF OF SPACEX CRS-5

U.S. CONDEMNS ATTACKS BY BOKO HARAM

FROM:  U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT 
U.S. Condemns Terrorist Attacks in Borno State
Press Statement
Jen Psaki
Department Spokesperson
Washington, DC
January 9, 2015

The United States condemns the recent escalation of attacks on civilians carried out by Boko Haram, which shows no regard for human life. All those responsible for these recurring terrorist attacks must be held accountable.

The United States abhors such violence, which continues to take a terrible toll on the people of Nigeria and the broader region, including Cameroon. We extend our sympathies to the loved ones of all victims of violence at the hands of Boko Haram.

The United States is committed to working with Nigeria and its neighbors to end the scourge of Boko Haram. We urge Nigeria and its neighbors to take all possible steps to address the urgent threat of Boko Haram. Even in the face of these horrifying attacks, terrorist organizations like Boko Haram must not distract Nigeria from carrying out credible and peaceful elections that reflect the will of the Nigerian people.

AG HOLDER'S REMARKS AT FAREWELL CEREMONY FOR DEPUTY AG COLE

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Attorney General Holder Delivers Remarks at Farewell Ceremony for Deputy Attorney General Cole
Washington, DCUnited States ~ Thursday, January 8, 2015

Good afternoon – and thank you all for being here.  This is a bittersweet day – for this department, for me, and, I know, for everyone in this Great Hall.  But it is a pleasure to share this occasion with so many good friends, valued colleagues and proud family members.  And it’s a great privilege to join each of our distinguished guest speakers in welcoming you all to the Justice Department this afternoon – as we thank Jim Cole for his exemplary service to our nation, not only over the last four years, but throughout his career; as we celebrate the many achievements that have defined his leadership of this department as Deputy Attorney General; and as we wish him well as he marks the beginning of an exciting new chapter in his life.

I want to extend a special welcome to Jim’s wonderful wife, Susan; their son, Jackson; their daughter, Amanda; and every member of Jim’s extended family who’s here with us today.

As a former Deputy Attorney General myself, I understand in a personal way the toll that this highly-demanding – and far from glamorous – job can take.  I also know that having a family member serving in such a high-profile and high-pressure position has required great sacrifices from many of Jim’s friends and loved ones.  So I want to take a moment to thank each of you for your service, for your patience, and for your constant love and support over the last four years – which I know have meant the world to Jim, and which have made possible the record of achievement that will define his legacy as a senior leader in the Obama Administration.

What a legacy it is.  Over the past four years, Jim Cole has been my indispensable partner in leading the U.S. Department of Justice – and extending the promise of equality under the law for everyone in this country.

His persistence, his tenacity, and his relentless drive for results – on behalf of the American people he serves so faithfully – have marked him as an extremely effective Deputy Attorney General.  And his love of, and loyalty to, this great institution – and the extraordinary men and women who serve it – have earned him a reputation as a skilled and thoughtful manager; as a good steward of the principles that have guided this department since its earliest days; and as a champion of the cause of justice – in every case and circumstance.

As anyone who has worked closely with Jim over the years can tell you, many of these qualities have been evident since the moment he first reported for work at the Justice Department – as a member of the newly-created Public Integrity Section.

That, of course, is where Jim and I first met – more years ago than either of us would like to admit.  I quickly came to admire Jim’s work ethic, his judgment, his passion for public service and his intelligence and skill as an attorney.

Even before he was promoted to Deputy Chief of the Public Integrity Section, I saw – as did many of our colleagues – that Jim had a tremendous amount to offer to this department, and that he was destined for big things.  I'm not sure, however, that anyone could have predicted then that the two of us would someday lead the Justice Department.  But I knew, when he left the federal workforce and launched a distinguished career in private practice – that his service to our nation was not yet over.

Although neither of us would have dared to imagine it at the time, I was deeply gratified that our respective paths brought us back together in 2010.  And I have been both honored and humbled to lead this department alongside him ever since.

During times of great challenge and unprecedented resource constraints – through a hiring freeze and even a government shutdown – President Obama and I have relied upon Jim to ensure that the Justice Department operates as effectively and efficiently as possible.

His leadership and ingenuity have been critical in attaining historic results on behalf of the American people.  And, as one of the longest-serving Deputy Attorneys General in history, his management of the day-to-day operations of this department has left a profound and enduring impact.

On a policy level, his input, advice and strong leadership played a key role in the administration’s decision not to defend the constitutionality of the Defense of Marriage Act – and he has been a clear and consistent advocate for LGBT rights throughout the country.

As we considered ways to improve America’s criminal justice system, Jim became a champion – and a key architect – of the Smart on Crime initiative, helping to guide and implement it from the ground up.  His work has been particularly important in driving new reentry policies and launching our new executive clemency initiative.

And from the historic resolution in the Deepwater Horizon case – which he helped make possible – to our aggressive and ongoing efforts to combat financial fraud and hold accountable those individuals and institutions who have undermined our economy, his efforts have greatly benefited the American people – touching and improving countless lives from coast to coast.

On questions large and small, throughout his tenure as DAG, Jim’s guidance and wise counsel have made him an irreplaceable advisor, a proven and trusted leader, and a steadfast and valued friend.

Jim, I have been proud to know you, to work with you, and to depend upon you for close to four decades.  I am honored to join everyone here in thanking you for your tireless work and faithful service over the years.  And although you will be dearly missed by dedicated public servants at every level of the Justice Department – and although I will miss working with you a great deal – I want to join our valued colleagues in wishing you all the best as you move on to bigger and better things.

You will always be a treasured member of the Justice Department family.  And I look forward to all that you’ll undoubtedly contribute and achieve in the months and years to come.

At this time, in recognition of your achievements and your many contributions over the years, it is my great privilege to present you with the highest award I can bestow on a Justice Department employee – the Edmund J. Randolph Award.  Congratulations, my friend – and good luck.

Ladies and gentlemen, please join me in welcoming to the podium – our Deputy Attorney General, and my great friend, Jim Cole.

The President Visits the Nueva Villas Housing Complex

FDA ACKNOWLEDGES CONCERNS OF USING PAIN MEDICINES DURING PREGNANCY

FROM:  U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION 

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is aware of and understands the concerns arising from recent reports questioning the safety of prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) pain medicines when used during pregnancy.  As a result, we evaluated research studies published in the medical literature and determined they are too limited to make any recommendations based on these studies at this time.  Because of this uncertainty, the use of pain medicines during pregnancy should be carefully considered.  We urge pregnant women to always discuss all medicines with their health care professionals before using them.

Severe and persistent pain that is not effectively treated during pregnancy can result in depression, anxiety, and high blood pressure in the mother. Medicines including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), opioids, and acetaminophen can help treat severe and persistent pain.  However, it is important to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of using prescription and OTC pain medicines during pregnancy.

The published studies we reviewed reported on the potential risks associated with the following three types of pain medicines used during pregnancy (see Data Summary section for more information about these studies):

Prescription NSAIDs and the risk of miscarriage in the first half of pregnancy.Examples of prescription NSAIDs include ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac, and celecoxib.

Opioids, which are available only by prescription, and the risk of birth defects of the brain, spine, or spinal cord in babies born to women who took these products during the first trimester of pregnancy. Examples of opioids include oxycodone, hydrocodone, hydromorphone, morphine, and codeine.

Acetaminophen in both OTC and prescription products and the risk of attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) in children born to women who took this medicine at any time during pregnancy. Acetaminophen is a common pain reducer and fever reducer found in hundreds of medicines including those used for colds, flu, allergies, and sleep.

We found all of the studies we reviewed to have potential limitations in their designs; sometimes the accumulated studies on a topic contained conflicting results that prevented us from drawing reliable conclusions.  As a result, our recommendations on how pain medicines are used during pregnancy will remain the same at this time.

Pregnant women should always consult with their health care professional before taking any prescription or OTC medicine.  Women taking pain medicines who are considering becoming pregnant should also consult with their health care professionals to discuss the risks and benefits of pain medicine use.  Health care professionals should continue to follow the recommendations in the drug labels when prescribing pain medicines to pregnant patients.

NASA's SMAP: Mapping the Water Under Our Feet

SpaceX CRS-5 mission on This Week @NASA

Weekly Address: America's Resurgence Is Real

MORE AIRSTRIKES TARGET ISIL

FROM:  U.S. DEFENSE DEPARTMENT
Inherent Resolve Airstrikes Target ISIL in Syria, Iraq

From a Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve News Release
SOUTHWEST ASIA, Jan. 9, 2015 – U.S. and partner-nation military forces have continued to attack Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant terrorists in Syria and Iraq, Combined Joint Task Force Operation Inherent Resolve officials reported today.

Between 8 a.m. yesterday and 8 a.m. today, local time, fighter and bomber aircraft conducted five airstrikes in Syria, and six airstrikes using fighter and remotely piloted aircraft targeted ISIL elements in Iraq, officials said.
The airstrikes in Syria, all near Kobani, struck an ISIL fighting position and two ISIL tactical units and destroyed an ISIL building and seven ISIL fighting positions.

Airstrikes in Iraq

Officials provided the following details on the Iraq airstrikes:
-- Near Qaim, an airstrike destroyed an ISIL bunker.

-- Near Asad, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and a large ISIL unit and destroyed two ISIL vehicles.

-- Near Sinjar, two airstrikes struck an ISIL tactical unit and destroyed an ISIL fighting position, an ISIL vehicle and an ISIL heavy weapon.

-- Near Mosul, an airstrike struck an ISIL building and an ISIL tactical unit.
Airstrike assessments are based on initial reports, officials noted.
Part of Operation Inherent Resolve

The strikes were conducted as part of Operation Inherent Resolve, the operation to eliminate the ISIL terrorist group and the threat it poses to Iraq, the region and the wider international community.

Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Iraq include the United States, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. Coalition nations conducting airstrikes in Syria include the United States, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

FORMER JUDGE IN ARKANSAS PLEADS GUILTY TO ACCEPTING BRIBE

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT  
Friday, January 9, 2015
Former Judge Pleads Guilty for Accepting Bribe During Campaign to be Elected to the Arkansas Court of Appeals

A former state circuit judge in Arkansas pleaded guilty today for accepting a bribe in exchange for reducing a negligence jury verdict against a Conway, Arkansas, company.

Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and First Assistant United States Attorney Patrick C. Harris of the Eastern District of Arkansas made the announcement.

Michael A. Maggio, 53, of Conway, Arkansas, pleaded guilty to a one-count information charging him with bribery concerning programs receiving federal funds.  A sentencing hearing before Chief U.S. District Judge Brian S. Miller of the Eastern District of Arkansas will be scheduled at a later date.

As part of his plea agreement, Maggio admitted that in 2013, he served as an elected circuit judge for the state of Arkansas, Twentieth Judicial District, Second Division, presiding over a civil matter in Faulkner County Circuit Court.  The plaintiff in that matter, the estate of a decedent, filed a complaint alleging, among other things, that a company, its owner, and others had neglected and mistreated the decedent leading to the decedent’s death while the decedent was in their care.  On May 16, 2013, a jury returned a verdict in the plaintiff’s favor, awarding damages against the sole-remaining defendant, the company, in the amount of $5.2 million.  Approximately one month later, the company filed a motion for new trial or to reduce the amount of damages awarded by the jury to the plaintiff.

Maggio further admitted that he formally announced his candidacy for the Arkansas Court of Appeals on June 27, 2013, while the post-trial motions were pending.  On July 10, 2013, Maggio entered an order reducing the verdict against the company to $1 million.  Prior to that order, a fundraiser for Maggio’s campaign told Maggio that the company’s owner had committed money to support Maggio’s campaign.  The fundraiser also communicated with Maggio regarding the pending post-trial motions.  On July 9, 2013, the owner  donated approximately $24,000 to Maggio’s campaign.  As part of his plea, Maggio admitted that his decision to remit the judgment was improperly influenced by the donations that his campaign received from the company’s owner.  Maggio further acknowledged that he attempted to delete text messages between the fundraiser and himself after the media became aware of the illicit contributions to his campaign.

The case was investigated by the FBI’s Little Rock Field Office, and is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney Edward P. Sullivan of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Peters of the Eastern District of Arkansas.

West Wing Week: 1/9/15 or, "SOTU Spoiler Alert!"

SECRETARY KERRY'S STATEMENT ON SRI LANKAN ELECTIONS

FROM:   U.S. STATE DEPARTMENT  
Conclusion of Sri Lankan Elections and Election of Maithripala Sirisena
Press Statement
John Kerry
Secretary of State
Washington, DC
January 8, 2015

The Sri Lankan people deserve great credit on the successful conclusion of their elections. They turned out in great numbers to exercise their democratic rights and every vote was a victory for Sri Lanka.

The United States applauds the Sri Lankan Elections Commissioner, the security forces, Sri Lankan civil society, and the candidates themselves for making sure this election was not marred by unrest and for ensuring a significant drop in campaign-related violence. It will be important for that effort to continue in the coming days.

I commend President Rajapaksa for accepting the results of the election in the proud tradition of peaceful and orderly transfers of power in Sri Lanka. His words tonight about accepting the verdict of the people and moving forward are important.

I look forward to working with President-elect Maithripala Sirisena as his new government works to implement its campaign platform of a Sri Lanka that is peaceful, inclusive, democratic, and prosperous.

FORMER ADOPTION AGENCY DIRECTOR PLEADS GUILTY FOR ROLE IN ETHIOPIAN ADOPTION FRAUD SCHEME

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Former International Program Director of Adoption Agency Pleads Guilty to Ethiopian Adoption Fraud Scheme

The former International Program Director of International Adoption Guides Inc. (IAG), an adoption agency, pleaded guilty today to conspiring with others to defraud the United States by submitting fraudulent documents to the State Department for adoptions from Ethiopia and paying bribes to foreign officials.

Assistant Attorney General Leslie R. Caldwell of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and U.S. Attorney Bill Nettles of the District of South Carolina made the announcement.

James Harding, 55, of Atlanta, Georgia, admitted as part of his guilty plea that, between 2008 and 2009, he and his co-conspirators submitted fraudulent documents to the State Department to facilitate adoptions of Ethiopian children by U.S. parents.  Harding admitted that, in support of U.S. visa applications for the Ethiopian children, he and others submitted false documentation, including contracts of adoption signed by orphanages that could not properly give the children up for adoption because, for example, the child in question was never cared for or never resided at the orphanage.

In entering his guilty plea, Harding also admitted that he and others paid bribes to two Ethiopian officials so that those officials would help with the fraudulent adoptions.  Specifically, Harding admitted that an audiologist and teacher at a government school was given money and other valuables in exchange for non-public medical information and social history information for potential adoptees.  Additionally, Harding and his co-conspirators provided cash and all-expense paid travel to the head of a regional ministry for women’s and children’s affairs in exchange for his approval of IAG’s applications for intercountry adoptions and ignoring IAG’s failure to maintain a properly licensed adoption facility.

Harding pleaded guilty before Senior U.S. District Court Judge Sol Blatt Jr. of the District of South Carolina, and a sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.

This ongoing investigation is being conducted by the Bureau of Diplomatic Security.  The department appreciates the assistance of the Office of Children’s Issues at the U.S. Department of State.  The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorney John W. Borchert of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jamie Lea Schoen of the District of South Carolina.\

President Obama Signs a Condolence Book at the French Embassy

WHAT'S UP FOR JANUARY 2015

EPA TAKES ACTION PROTECTING CONSUMERS FROM TOLUENE DIISOCYANATES

FROM:  U.S. EPA 

Today, EPA is taking action to protect consumers from new uses and imports of the harmful chemicals Toluene Diisocyanates (TDI).

These chemicals are currently widely used in residual amounts in the production of polyurethanes and consumer products, such as coatings, elastomers, adhesives, and sealants and can be found in products used in and around homes or schools. Diisocyanates are well known dermal and inhalation sensitizers in the workplace and can cause asthma, lung damage, and in severe cases, death.

The proposed decision would give EPA the opportunity to evaluate and if necessary, to take action to prohibit or limit the use of the chemicals at greater than 0.1% in coatings, adhesives, elastomers, binders, and sealants in consumer products including imported consumer products that make their way into the United States.  For all other uses in a consumer products, EPA would have the opportunity to evaluate the use of the chemicals at any level.

EPA’s proposed action, a Significant New Use Rule (SNUR) under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), would require manufacturers (including importers) to notify EPA at least 90 days before starting or resuming these new uses in consumer products.  EPA would then have the opportunity to evaluate the intended use of the chemicals and, if necessary, take action to prohibit or limit the activity.

FORMER ANGOLA PRISON CORRECTIONS OFFICERS SENTENCED FOR ABUSING INMATE, COVER-UP

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Thursday, January 8, 2015
Three Former Correctional Officers At Angola Prison Sentenced for Abusing an Inmate and Cover-Up

Three former correctional officers with the Louisiana State Penitentiary in Angola, Louisiana, were sentenced today before United States District Judge James J. Brady for the Middle District of Louisiana for abusing an inmate and engaging in conduct to cover up the criminal conduct.  Mark Sharp, 33, received 73 months.  Kevin Groom, 47, was sentenced to one year probation and a $500 fine.  Matthew Cody Butler, 29, received two years probation and a $3,000 fine.

According to court documents filed in connection with their guilty pleas, on January 24, 2010, defendants Groom, Sharp and Butler were on duty as correctional officials when they learned that an inmate had escaped from his assigned location.  Shortly after the defendants joined the search for the escapee, the inmate surrendered to prison officials.  The inmate was handcuffed behind his back and placed in the back of a pick-up truck to be transported to the medical unit.  Groom, Butler, and Sharp escorted the inmate on the back of that truck.  During the drive to the medical unit, Sharp repeatedly struck the inmate with an baton.  During the ensuring investigation of the inmate’s complaint that officers had abused him, Groom and Butler engaged in various conduct to cover up the assault.

Sharp pleaded guilty to violating the civil rights of the inmate and to making false statements to the FBI.  Groom pleaded guilty to falsifying records in a federal investigation and making false statements to the FBI.  Butler pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony.

Another former officer, Jason Giroir, also pleaded guilty on May 29, 2013, to falsifying a report and making a false statement to the FBI.  He will be sentenced separately on January 29, 2015.

“The vast majority of American law enforcement officers conduct themselves with honor,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Vanita Gupta for the Civil Rights Division.  “But when law enforcement officers abuse inmates and attempt to cover-up their misconduct, the Department of Justice stands ready to hold those officers accountable for their conduct.”

“It is unfortunate that the defendants’ criminal activities threaten to overshadow the courageous and outstanding work performed every day by the vast majority of law enforcement officers, both inside and outside the penal system,” said U.S. Attorney J. Walter Green for the Middle District of Louisiana.

“This thorough and patient investigation  not only resulted in the full accountability of all correctional officers involved, but also demonstrated unwavering adherence to the procedural rights of the victim and accused,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Anderson of the FBI’s New Orleans Office.

The investigation in this matter was conducted by Special Agent Taneka Harris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Civil Rights Division Trial Attorney AeJean Cha and Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert W. Piedrahita.

FBI ARRESTS FIVE INVOLVED IN ALABAMA CRIME ORGANIZATION

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
FBI Arrests Defendants Charged with Trafficking Heroin and Other Drugs in Jefferson County

FBI agents today arrested five of six Jefferson County, Alabama, men indicted by a federal grand jury in November on charges they operated an illegal organization trafficking heroin, cocaine, prescription painkillers and other drugs in the western part of the county.  The sixth defendant already was in custody in Jefferson County on state charges related to the drug-trafficking organization.

U.S. Attorney Joyce White Vance, FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert E. Haley III, Jefferson County Sheriff Mike Hale, Hueytown Police Chief Chuck Hagler and Special Agent in Charge Veronica Hyman-Pillot of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Division announced today's arrests.

The November indictment charges Ladaryl Keith "Eric" Spriggs, 30, Michael "Mike" Watson Jr., 28, Boris Bernard "Buck" Edwards, 45, and Marquis Rashad "Bobo" Abernathy, 23, all of Brighton, Alabama, as well as Damien Jamaar "Two for 15" Scott, 29, of Bessemer, Alabama, and Antione Rashun "Twan" Bell, 29, of Birmingham, Alabama, with conspiring to distribute heroin, cocaine, marijuana, oxycodone, codeine, hydrocodone, suboxone and alprazolam between August 2013 and Nov. 17, 2014.

Arrested today were Spriggs, Watson, Abernathy, Edwards and Bell.  Scott was already in custody.

"The indictment and arrests of these defendants reflects my office's commitment to work with law enforcement to battle the country's epidemic problem of heroin and opioid painkiller abuse on the supply side," said U.S. Attorney Vance.  "There have been at least 123 heroin overdose deaths in Jefferson County, alone, in 2014.  As a community, we must wage battle on many fronts, including seeking more education and awareness about opiate abuse and more addiction treatment options."

“This investigation shows the FBI’s resolve to target organizations that are bringing heroin and other dangerous drugs into the Birmingham area," said FBI Acting Special Agent in Charge Haley.  "Today, along with our law enforcement partners, we were able to remove dangerous people from the streets and take another step toward making our community safer.”

"The drug trade is a deadly business and none more deadly than heroin," said Sheriff Hale.  "This investigation and subsequent number of arrests will certainly have a positive impact in our area, as these are major players in this deadly game.  Lives will be saved because of it.  I want to thank United States Attorney Joyce Vance and her team, along with all of the federal and local enforcement partners for their commitment to this initiative.  We are a powerful force working together and we are committed to continuing this fight.”

"The heroin problem is a metro-wide epidemic that needs a cooperative response from law enforcement, on all levels, across the area," said Police Chief Hagler.  "The leadership shown by the U.S. Attorney’s Office on this issue has been both welcomed and effective.  I’m sure I speak for all my fellow police chiefs when I say we appreciate Joyce Vance’s efforts in helping to spearhead a multi-agency law enforcement strategy to deal with this threat to all our communities."

According to the indictment, Spriggs, Watson and Abernathy are charged with trafficking more than 1,000 grams of heroin as part of the conspiracy, and Scott's, Bell's and Edwards' participation in the conspiracy involved more than 100 grams of heroin.

Count 2 of the indictment charges Spriggs and Watson with possessing and intending to distribute heroin and oxycodone from a Fairfield, Alabama, house located within 1,000 feet of a public school, Fairfield High School, on July 17.

Count 3 charges Spriggs, Scott and Watson with possessing and intending to distribute heroin on August 8.

The remaining 11 counts variously charge all defendants, except Scott, with using a telephone to facilitate a drug-trafficking crime.

The indictment seeks a forfeiture judgment of at least $1 million from the defendants as proceeds of illegal activity.

The maximum penalty for conspiracy to distribute drugs illegally is 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine.  Conspiracy to distribute more than 1,000 grams of heroin carries a penalty of 10 years to life in prison and a $10 million fine, and conspiracy to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin carries a penalty of five to 40 years in prison and a $5 million fine.

The maximum penalty for possessing with intent to distribute heroin or oxycodone is 20 years in prison and a $1 million fine.  The maximum penalty doubles for distribution within 1,000 feet of a school.

The maximum penalty for using a telephone to facilitate a drug-trafficking crime is four years in prison and a $250,000 fine.

The FBI's Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case, in conjunction with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, Hueytown Police and IRS-CID. Assistant U.S. Attorney Gregory R. Dimler is prosecuting the case.

The public is reminded that an indictment contains only charges.  Defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.

LOUISIANA RESIDENT PLEADS GUILTY TO PIPELINE SAFETY VIOLATIONS AND FALSE STATEMENTS

FROM:  U.S. JUSTICE DEPARTMENT 
Wednesday, January 7, 2015
Pipeline Corrosion Monitor Pleads Guilty to Pipeline Safety Violations and False Statements

Randy Jones, 44, a former corrosion coordinator for Shell Pipeline Company L.P. (Shell), pleaded guilty in Milwaukee today to failing to conduct bi-monthly voltage readings and an annual survey of a pipeline used to transport jet fuel in violation of the Pipeline Safety Act (PSA) and making a false statement to the Pipeline and Hazardous Material Safety Administration (PHMSA).

Jones, a resident of Louisiana, pleaded guilty to knowingly failing to conduct required safety test between January and December 2011 and submitting false data to PHMSA. The violations were in connection with a pipeline owned by Shell that delivered commercial aviation jet fuel to General Mitchell International Airport in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.  In January 2012 a hole was discovered in the pipeline at Mitchell Airport after jet fuel began showing up in soil surrounding the airport and in nearby Wilson Creek.  Fuel eventually reached and melted asphalt on airport property.  Shell reported that approximately 9,000 gallons of jet fuel was released.  The response and cleanup cost for the spill was approximately $19.3 million.    

Jones was employed by Shell from 1992 through 2012. From 2010 until 2012, Jones was employed as a corrosion coordinator and was responsible for Shell pipelines servicing Mitchell and Chicago O’Hare airports. Jones failed to conduct the required testing for 2011 and when advised of an audit by PHMSA scheduled for December 2011, he submitted false data indicating the required test had been conducted.    

Consistent with requirements of the PSA, which establishes standards for the safe operation of the hazardous materials in pipelines, buried or submerged metal pipelines must be protected to prevent corrosion.  This involves the use of a device called a rectifier which applies a negative current to soil near the pipeline to keep corrosion away from the pipe.  The operator of the pipeline is required to conduct bi-monthly readings of the voltage generated from a rectifier and conduct an annual survey of the pipeline to insure that the pipeline is adequately protected from corrosion.  PHMSA is the primary agency responsible for regulating and enforcing the PSA.

An information charging Jones with two counts of violating the PSA and one false statement violation was filed on Nov. 14, 2014.  Under the terms of the plea agreement, each offense charged carries a maximum prison sentence of five years. The sentencing is set for April 30, 2015.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Criminal Investigation Division, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, and FBI, with assistance from PHMSA.  The case was prosecuted by Jennifer A. Whitfield of the Environmental Crimes Section of the Department of Justice and Tracy M. Johnson of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin.