Two Individuals Indicted In August 2015 Federal Grand Jury

MUSKOGEE, OKLAHOMA – The United States Attorney’s Office announced today the results of the August 2015 Federal Grand Jury.

“The following named individuals have been charged with a federal crime or crimes by the return of an indictment by the Grand Jury.  A grand jury Indictment does not constitute evidence of guilt.  A grand jury Indictment is a method of bringing formal charges against the defendant.  A defendant is presumed innocent of the charges and may not be found guilty unless evidence establishes guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.  United States Sentencing Guidelines may be considered, upon conviction, by the sentencing court.  Federal prison sentences are non-parolable.”

PAUL DANIEL MORRISON, age 55, of Poteau, Oklahoma

Theft Of Government Funds
Forfeiture Allegation

The Indictment alleges that beginning in or about December, 2011, and continuing until on or about July 9, 2013, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, defendant PAUL DANIEL MORRISON, did willfully and knowingly steal and purloin money of the Department of Veterans Affairs, a department or agency of the United States, namely, Department of Veterans Affairs Monthly Non-Service Connected Pension Benefits payments to which he knew he was not entitled, having a value in excess of $1,000.00.

The charge arose from an investigation by the Department of Veterans Affairs, Office of Inspector General.  The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 641, punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Rob Wallace

WILLIAM JAMES SMITH, Jr., age 34, of Okay, Oklahoma
a/k/a "Jimmy"

Felon In Possession Of Firearm & Ammunition
Forfeiture Allegation

The Indictment alleges that on or about February 26, 2015, within the Eastern District of Oklahoma, the defendant, WILLIAM JAMES SMITH, Jr., a/k/a Jimmy, having been convicted of a crime punishable by imprisonment for a term exceeding one year, did knowingly possess in and affecting commerce, a firearm and ammunition.

The charge arose from an investigation by the Muskogee Police Department, the United States Marshal Service and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. The charge is in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Sections 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(2), punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, up to a $250,000.00 fine or both.

Assistant United States Attorney Dean Burris