WIFLE 2024 Awards Ceremony

WIFLE Foundation, Inc.

2024 Awards Ceremony

Annual Leadership Training

AUGUST 5–8, 2024

ALEXANDRIA, VIRGINIA

WELCOME

Master of Ceremonies

Sunnetta Slaughter

Founder | CEO

Sunny Slaughter Consulting, LLC

Law Enforcement & Litigation Expert

Guest Legal Analyst - Media

NATIONAL ANTHEM

Joanne Robinson

Branch Chief

Department of Homeland Security

Federal Protective Service

INVOCATION

Reverend Monsignor Salvatore Criscuolo

St. Patrick Catholic Church

LUNCHEON

OPENING REMARKS

The Honorable Deb Haaland (Invited)

U.S. Secretary of the Interior Office of the Secretary

PRESENTATION OF AWARDS

Catrina M. Bonus

President, WIFLE Foundation, Inc., and Executive Director, WIFLE, Inc.

Jessie L. Lane

Vice President, WIFLE Foundation, Inc., and Deputy Executive Director, WIFLE, Inc.

CLOSING REMARKS

WIFLE Foundation, Inc.

WIFLE is the only non-profit organization in the United States dedicated to identifying barriers to the recruitment, hiring, retention, and promotion of women and recommending solutions to address the underrepresentation of women in federal law enforcement. WIFLE’s scientifically based research provides advice and guidance for agencies to consider in their recruitment and retention strategies. WIFLE scholarships offer monetary assistance to women pursuing careers in law enforcement.

Today, at our Annual Awards ceremony, you witnessed WIFLE’s dedication and commitment to honoring women and men for their professional achievements in the presence of their families, friends, and colleagues.

We are extremely proud of the work we do at WIFLE. Come join our organization and be an integral part of shaping the future of law enforcement.

WIFLE Foundation, Inc.

2024 Awards

Julie Y. Cross

Award®

This award honors a sworn federal law enforcement officer for an act of exceptional courage or heroism or for an unusual degree of stamina and willingness to go beyond the call of duty, resulting in an extraordinary achievement in the field of law enforcement. This award is named in the memory of Julie Y. Cross, a U.S. Secret Service agent, the first female federal law enforcement officer killed in the line of duty on June 4, 1980.

Erin Dromerhauser Border Patrol Agent

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

On November 4, 2023, at approximately 11:00 p.m. Border Patrol Agent (BPA) Erin Dromerhauser, a nationally certified Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), responded to a 911 emergency call from a man whose wife was struck by a freight train. An exact location was not provided so BPA Dromerhauser along with two other BPAs quickly initiated a search along the railroad tracks in Eagle Pass, Texas. After a brief search, BPA Dromerhauser and team encountered two subjects, including the 911 caller. BPA Dromerhauser quickly assumed responsibility of the scene and enacted lifesaving measures due to a double amputation of the legs, below the knees. Agents notified Union Pacific Emergency Center of the medical emergency and coordinated for all train movement to be halted near their location. Being the only certified EMT on scene, BPA Dromerhauser was required to multi-task. BPA Dromerhauser directed the agents for ambulatory care preparation, applying tourniquets to the missing limbs, stopping any further blood loss, and stabilizing the patient for incoming paramedics.

If not for BPA Dromerhauser’s bravery, heroic actions, medical knowledge, and ability to take control of the situation, the injured female would have perished that night.

Elizebeth Smith Friedman Intelligence Award of Excellence

This award honors federal law enforcement personnel, sworn and non-sworn, and full-time intelligence professionals, an individual or a group. The award honors significant acts of exceptional and sustained levels of intelligence analysis; innovative intelligence integration functions; increased situational awareness to further investigative operations, secure/protect an event (NSSE), reduce/prevent crime, and prevent terrorism. The WIFLE award is named in honor of Elizebeth Smith Friedman, ATF’s first female Prohibition Investigator and accomplished Cryptanalyst, for her pioneering work in fighting one of the most perilous threats of the prohibition era – transnational organized crime syndicates that controlled liquor and narcotics smuggling.

Theresa E. Armstrong

Intelligence Group Supervisor Homeland Security and Investigations

Criminal Analyst (CA)/Intelligence Group Supervisor Theresa Armstrong has a renowned reputation for developing a national initiative that directly impacts all Homeland Security Investigation’s (HSI) casework by providing direct financial support in an accurate, repeatable, and expeditious manner. Because of her unique level of skill and expertise, she has been instrumental in leading Operation Dirty Laundry (ODL), a large-scale Venezuelan money laundering investigation.

Under her decisive leadership, HSI Charlotte’s Carolina Financial Crimes Task Force (CFCTF) has been credited with uncovering 1,565 individuals who made deposits into 1,824 financial accounts totaling over $177 million in a rolling 12-month period. The bulk cash currency was moved from the United States to foreign countries in support of major cartels end sanctioned foreign governments.

Due to the level of expertise required, the CFCTF directly sought out and recruited CA Armstrong for her unique skillsets in interpreting large data sets, communication and financial analysis, and data visualization. Once CA Armstrong completed these inquiries, she reported the findings through HSI’s Framework for Criminal Analysis methodology to create actionable Financial Expansion Packets (FEP). To contextualize the scale of this requirement, as of 2021, there were approximately 4,236 FDIC-insured commercial bank institutions in the United States with 14,276 individual filers who submitted 16 million Bank Secrecy Act Currency Transaction Reports (BCTR). Through her skillful FEP design and development, CA Armstrong was credited with aggregating financial data, summarizing it, and easily connecting three generations out from the main target.

Without question, ODL has benefited immensely from Criminal Analyst Theresa Armstrong’s expertise and innovative efforts to significantly reduce the extremely limited analytic resources needed to shrink the investigative time frame for analyzing massive volumes of data holdings. Her exceptional skills will contribute to the reduction and prevention of crime by disrupting Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs) ability to use the U.S. financial system to move illicit funds.

Kathryn McCool Staff Operations Specialist Federal Bureau of Investigation

As a distinguished member of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s (FBI) intelligence and operational squads, Staff Operations Specialist (SOS) Kathryn McCool has demonstrated an exceptional and sustained level of intelligence analysis which provided a substantial and broad impact in the field of intelligence. In 2023, she has worked tirelessly to support multiple on-going, high profile counterproliferation investigations through the production of actionable intelligence.

Due to her subject matter expertise, SOS McCool was selected to travel to Sweden to support investigators preparing for prosecution of a Russianbacked international procurement network. She worked with the Swedish team to help prepare the FBI’s statement and testimony for their trial. SOS McCool drafted two Tactical Intelligence Reports related to this investigation, one recommending the opening of an additional investigation on an associate of the main subject. Her efforts aided in major investigative findings for this case and shared intelligence with the Swedish Security Service (SAPO).

In response to the further invasion of Ukraine, the United States and countries around the world have imposed even more sanctions on Russia to include to include export controls on technology, sanctions on banks, and sanctions against high-profile individuals and their assets. SOS McCool leverages her extensive experience working on matters of Russian procurement schemes to proactively identify transnational networks of Russian-backed efforts to subvert U.S. export laws and sanctions in order to obtain sensitive and/or dual-use technologies.

In 2023, SOS McCool under the title, “Operation Disruptive Capture,” received the Attorney General’s award for Distinguished Service, the second highest Department of Justice (DOJ) Award granted by the Attorney General. This operation was a joint FBI New York and DOJ/Eastern District of New York (EDNY) effort that combined two major DOJ priority initiatives seeking to deny Russia’s ability to illegally acquire sensitive U.S. technology and enforce sanctions imposed on Russia for their invasion of Ukraine; Task Force KleptoCapture and the Disruptive Technology Strike Force.

This operation resulted in two high-profile indictments involving fifteen defendants and arrests in five countries.

Staff Operations Specialist Kathryn McCool’s career has been marked with exceptional achievements. Her steadfast commitment to excellence and critical engagement with foreign partner have been integral to the FBI’s national and international security efforts worldwide. Without question, SOS McCool is a distinguished role model in the New York Office, at the FBI – as a whole, and on behalf of women in federal law enforcement.

Outstanding Advocate for Women in Federal Law Enforcement

This award recognizes the contributions of an individual toward the elimination of systemic barriers to career opportunities for women in law enforcement. The award recognizes a person who is an advocate, advisor, and leader in the continued support of women in law enforcement

Casey O. Durst

Operations Support

Executive Assistant Commissioner

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Ms. Casey O. Durst began her career as a Federal Law Enforcement Officer with the U.S. Customs Service as an Inspector at Washington-Dulles International Airport in 1997. Over the course of her distinguished career, Ms. Durst has continually exceeded expectations in every position she has held, propelling her from Inspector to Executive Assistant Commissioner, Operations Support at U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Ms. Durst has been instrumental in championing the advancement of the female workforce throughout CBP. As a phenomenal role model for women in law enforcement, she exemplifies work-life balance and professional success. Casey has been pivotal in championing the advancement of women with CBP, advocating for equal opportunities, mentorship, leadership empowerment, transferable skills, and unobstructed access to leadership roles and resources.

Over the past year, she has led multiple initiatives designed to enhance the recruitment, retention, recognition, and resilience of females in federal law enforcement.

Noted Accomplishments in 2023:

» EAC Durst enhanced the modernization of female personal appearance and uniform standards across the agency. She spearheaded critical changes to the CBP uniform program and advocated for modern

hairstyles for bargaining and non-bargaining unit employees which fostered a positive and progressive workplace culture.

» EAC Durst has dedicated an inordinate amount of time mentoring GS15 and DHS Senior Executive Service (SES) candidates to enhance both their positions and experiences by showcasing their executivelevel potential. Her advocacy for women resulted in 14 mentees being promoted to prominent GS-15 and SES positions, and 10 additional mentees were advanced to GS-14 positions.

» She set a precedent by participating in SES at the OFO Field Operations Academy and mentoring two cohorts of CBP Basic Officer Training Sessions. Her latest class, Section 683, boasted the highest number of female graduates in a single CBPBOT session.

» She was the guest speaker at an International Border Women event hosted by the Canada Border Security Agency.

» She championed resume, interview, and professional development training across CBP – empowering employees to enhance their resumes and prepare for structured interviews which increased their opportunities for career advancement.

As a trailblazer, confidence builder, and change maker, EAC Casey Durst has guided, inspired, and encouraged scores of women while simultaneously providing critical resources for them to excel beyond their career expectations. These intangible benefits have truly been embedded in their moral fiber – resulting in a distinguished cadre of innovative and collaborative mentors and leaders.

Amber R. Jordan, Esq. Office of Counsel, Inspector Attorney Labor and Litigation Group

U.S. Postal Inspection Service

In 2023, Inspector Amber Jordan has been a staunch advocate whose substantial contributions have significantly impacted the recruitment, retention, and promotion of women in law enforcement throughout the United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS).

Inspector Jordan developed a “Pregnancy and Discrimination” poster for dissemination agency wide through our internal website. In addition to the poster’s design being informative and aesthetically appealing, she included policies and relevant laws to allow postal inspectors access to information on pregnancy and nursing related topics in one location.

The poster was uploaded to the USPIS intranet in December 2023. Female postal inspectors now have a reference resource when they have questions, they may not be comfortable asking directly. Inspector Jordan subsequently prepared and presented training on the pregnancy and lactation policies

highlighted in the poster, as well as updates to relevant laws to managers in our field divisions. The training has been well-received by the field.

Inspector Jordan also serves as our liaison inspector on the “30x30 Initiative” project, promoting a 30 percent increase of women in federal law enforcement positions within USPIS by the year 2030. Over the past year, she developed a survey for all current USPIS law enforcement personnel. USPIS anticipates using the survey data to assess where USPIS stands with respect to gender equity by making additional improvements in how it recruits and retains women as law enforcement officers. The wellcrafted survey questions should provide insight into which issues are more impactful for women in law enforcement, as opposed to men.

In addition to her exceptional work on the survey, Inspector Jordan serves on several 30x30 Initiative working groups that address threat management, recruitment, mentorship, hiring, policy/compliance, data analysis, and the Providing Urgent Maternal Protections (PUMP) for Nursing Mothers Act.

Inspector Amber Jordan’s advocacy regarding the recruitment and retention of women is not limited to her position at the USPIS. She is an active and invaluable member of WIFLE where she serves honorably as the 2023 President of WIFLE Inc.’s Executive Committee. Her outstanding commitment to duty and exceptional contributions are quite evident as she continually strives to increase not only the numbers of women in federal law enforcement, but also the retention of women in law enforcement positions at USPIS.

Roberta Vickerman

Supervisory Air Marshal in Charge Transportation Security Administration Law Enforcement / Federal Air Marshal Service

Supervisory Air Marshal in Charge Roberta Vickerman currently serves as the executive leader of the Charlotte Field Office of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) Law Enforcement/Federal Air Marshal Service (LE/FAMS). She Is a high performing member of the organization who works tirelessly to improve employee engagement and increase the organizational satisfaction of the workforce.

SAC Vickerman has a passion for increasing diversity, equity, accessibility, and inclusion within the Department of Homeland Security (DHS). She has taken both formal and informal leadership roles as an advocate for women in law enforcement throughout her career. She is currently leading the DHS Office of Health Security (OHS) Women in Law Enforcement (WLE) Task Force Subcommittee for Expedited Hiring which is examining methods for recruiting and hiring women law enforcement officers into DHS.

SAC Vickerman recently completed service with the Women Excel at FAMS (WE@FAMS) Executive Board as Vice-Chair – a subcommittee of

the Women Excel at TSA (WE@TSA) – an employee advocacy council dedicated to the retention and cultivation of female talent within the LE/ FAMS. As Vice Chair, she spearheaded initiatives impacting female Federal Air Marshals and crafted proposals under review by TSA Senior Leadership to launch a part-time FAM program to boost mid-career retention.

Under her mentorship, more women have been promoted to the executive, management, and supervisory ranks within LE/FAMS. SAC Vickerman established the first Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility Council for the Detroit Field Office. During PRIDE month in 2022, she coordinated a field office visit and presentation by Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, chief law enforcement officer for the State of Michigan, and the first openly LGBTQ+ person elected to statewide office.

SAC Roberta Vickerman’s sustained contributions toward improving recruitment, retention, and promotion of women earned her the Detroit Federal Executive Board Award for Distinguished Federal Service in Individual Diversity in April 2023, the TSA Honorary Award for Core Values for her work with WE@FAMS, and the DHS Secretary’s Award for Outstanding Achievement in Diversity Management in 2015 for promoting diversity through leadership and innovation.

Outstanding Federal Law Enforcement Employee

These awards honor outstanding employees in the field of law enforcement. The objective is to recognize individuals who have shown a sustained level of superior performance throughout their career and who serve as role models for women in law enforcement

Monica Cueto Special Agent Federal Bureau of Investigation

Special Agent Monica Cueto, a distinguished 20-year veteran of the FBI, has spent the past 11 years on the Special Victims Squad (SVS) pursuing child sex offenders and bringing them to justice while protecting the most vulnerable in our society. SA Cueto has served on the Special Victims Squad (SVS) and led some of the most egregious crime investigations, which led to numerous perpetrators’ identification, arrest, and conviction.

SA Cueto’s Violent Crimes Against Children (VCAC) subject matter expertise were highlighted during the investigation of Charles Browne which began in 2018 and ended with his sentencing in April 2023. A subsequent neighborhood canvass revealed Browne disposed of an iPhone and iPad

in the Kettle Creek inlet. These recovered devices led to large quantities of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM) images and videos and the successful prosecution of Browne in 2022 and his 15-year sentence in April 2023.

While awaiting Browne’s sentencing in 2022, SA Cueto tenaciously pursued an investigation into a subject who had been sextorting a 17-year-old suicidal minor female victim (MV) for 2 years, demanding that she send him over $13,000 and produce CSAM. She ensured the MV received necessary mental health care, uncovered the identity of the online perpetrator and multiple victims from the same family. The sextortion operation occurred across various jurisdictions and led to the successful apprehension of the predator.

In 2023, SA Cueto’s tenacity and persistence to take down additional child sex offenders led her to a female subject’s co-conspirator, a registered sex offender (RSO) residing in Texas. SA Cueto determined the New Jersey subject sent the Texas subject CSAM via her MMA account that she produced in which she engaged in sexual activity with her toddler son. SA Cueto traveled to Texas to interview the subject, executed a search warrant at his residence, and obtained a confession. The subject is currently facing charges in New Jersey which carry a 25-year mandatory minimum sentence.

Special Agent Monica Cueto’s investigation of these complex violations require a keenly unique, cross-programmatic skillset. She intuitively draws upon her superior knowledge of cyber techniques, social media awareness, understanding of violent offenders, and possesses the emotional fortitude to grapple with disturbing criminal evidence. She is also a highly trained member of the FBI Newark’s Evidence Response Team (ERT) and the Crisis Negotiation Team (CNT) and responds to high-risk barricaded subject scenes, suicidal subjects, and participates in hostage negotiations.

Monika Deckert

Supervisory Customs and Border Protection Officer

U.S. Customs and Border Protection

Over the course of her dedicated 15-year career, Supervisory Customs and Border Protection Officer (SCBPO) Monika Deckert has distinguished herself as a self-motivated, results-oriented role model who utilizes the most appropriate methodologies to complete tasks efficiently and effortlessly. She has rightfully earned her trailblazer momentum for setting tangible goals and delivering measurable results at every level.

SCBPO Deckert’s professionalism, dedication, and passion for her job are above and beyond the average person. Her significant accomplishments have been integral to ensuring operational excellence, contributed to an increase in drug seizures and related criminal activity, and her penchant for mentoring and training her colleagues have inspired and cultivated a more diversity and inclusive workplace.

In September 2023, while assigned as (A)Deputy Chief Officer (DCO) at Newark Liberty International Airport (NLIA), Monika Deckert utilized her knowledge and training as an EMT to save two lives. With rapid response, she noticed an unconscious male on the ground having a seizure, took his vitals, stabilized the passenger, and prepared him for medical transport. Again, on Sunday, September 24, (A)DCO Deckert received a call for medical assistance onboard a United Airlines flight. She administered CPR to an unconscious female passenger and prepared her for medical transport. In both cases, (A)DCO Deckert’s alertness, swift actions, and medical training helped save two lives that weekend.

Throughout fiscal year (FY) 2022 and most of FY 2023, SCBPO Deckert served as a first-line supervisor at CBP’s International Mail Facility (IMF) addressing high-pressure, short turnaround situations with big corporations such as the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), Federal Express (FedEx), and United Parcel Service (UPS). Under her leadership in 2022 and 2023, she motivated the team and increased narcotic seizures to 21.5% in 2022 and 21.67% in 2023.

In June 2023, SCBPO Deckert was temporarily promoted to serve as acting (A)DCO and quickly became an integral part of the Resources, Planning, Strategies and Logistics (RPSL) Branch. In this role, she coordinated taskings, responses, and programs across all divisions throughout the Port. One of the programs was Operation Southwest Border. From June to December 2023 there were five deployment waves of officers and supervisors to the Southwest Border. (A)DCO Deckert directed and coordinated the smooth deployment of 58 officers and six supervisors.

Supervisory Customs and Border Protection Officer Monika Deckert is a respected leader who exhibits professionalism, technical expertise, corporate knowledge, and personal decorum throughout all her endeavors. She constantly goes beyond the boundaries of her assigned functions to contribute to the mission of CBP in the Port of New York/Newark.

Michelle C. Hamilton

Acting Chief of Staff Office of the Director

United States Marshals Service

Acting Chief of Staff (COS) Michelle Hamilton began her career with the United States Marshals Service (USMS) as a college graduate in 2008 and was recruited into the student internship program. In 2009, she was permanently employed as a Deputy United States Marshal, responsible for protecting the federal judiciary, apprehending federal fugitives, managing, and selling seized assets acquired by criminals through illegal activities, and housing and transporting federal prisoners.

Shortly thereafter, she was elevated to a Threat Investigator responsible for conducting threat investigations for federal judges and high-level government employees. After being recruited as the Senior Task Force Lead for the Pacific Northwest Violent Offender Fugitive Task Force, she conducted domestic and complex international fugitive apprehensions of some of the country’s most violent offenders.

COS Hamilton’s stellar accomplishments led to her continual rapid progression to high-profile positions with increased responsibilities. Her significant contributions and accomplishments include the following:

» Served as a Senior Inspector for the Office of Canadian Affairs, becoming the principal USMS representative and country advisor for enforcement operations in Canada where she addressed transnational fugitive matters and facilitate fugitive removals by extradition and deportation.

» Deputy Chief of USMS’ International Investigations Branch (IIB), where she oversaw the United States Government’s Extradition Program and transnational fugitive investigations while coordinating with USMS foreign field offices and INTERPOL.

» Drafted and enacted Thai Court Marshal legislation in the Thai National Legislative Assembly, which resulted in the establishment of Thailand’s federal agency modeled after the USMS.

» Managed the execution and growth of three USMS districts following a Supreme Court ruling that transitioned 45 percent of the state of Oklahoma to tribal land, transferring felony cases to federal courts.

» Facilitated the first-ever establishment of a USMS foreign field office in the United Kingdom (UK). As the Senior Diplomatic Representative, she increased U.S./UK fugitive apprehensions by 85 percent, shortened extradition removal time by half, and established critical information sharing practices for United States and UK sex offender registries.

In 2023, she was appointed as Deputy Chief of Staff, Office of the Director (DIR), where she managed the day-to-day operations, conducted analysis of USMS operational procedures, and recommended improvements to enhance efficiency. Five months later, Acting COS Hamilton was selected to serve as the Acting Assistant Director of the Investigative Operations Division, (IOD) one of the most significant missions within USMS, and with the highest visibility and risk environments. While serving, she implemented strategic corrective measures to overcome IOD’s significant challenges.

Acting Chief of Staff Michelle Hamilton also serves on and oversees the 30x30 Initiative to recruit 30 percent more women into law enforcement by 2030. This committee is reviewing all aspects within USMS to address diversity, to include hiring, retention, recruiting, culture, promotion opportunities, and USMS policies.

Michelle Malfavon

Senior Special Agent

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement

Office of Professional Responsibility

Senior Special Agent (SSA) Michelle Malfavon, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), El Paso, Texas has an esteemed reputation as an extremely hardworking agent who is very thorough and competent in all aspects of OPR investigations.

During her first tour of duty in OPR, SSA Malfavon conducted six longstanding employee misconduct cases and was directly instrumental in exonerating innocent ICE employees and restoring the integrity of the agency. In another high-profile case in 2023, an ICE employee alleged her supervisor was making sexually charged comments. SSA Malfavon conducted 20 interviews and corroborated the allegations. During the interviews, several female victims told SSA Malfavon that the supervisor not only sexually harassed ICE employees, but external partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, non-governmental organizations, and state partners.

During the investigation, SSA Malfavon discovered that the supervisor’s government cellular telephone had more than 90,000 text messages and 476 screenshots from victims and witnesses, documenting the sexual harassment. SSA Malfavon was able to identify the true names of the human trafficking victims, their current contact information and interviewed them. During these interviews, she provided a safe environment for victims to share their experiences, ensured they were not revictimized, and provided support for their physical and mental recovery process. Her decisive handling of this case impacted the outcome and resulted in the accused supervisor’s retirement from government service.

Prior to her assignment with OPR, SSA Malfavon was assigned to HSI El Paso’s Undercover Operations Group as the Certified Undercover Fundamental Financial Services Administrator from 2021 to 2023. She maintained an expenditure authorization plan exceeding $781,000 with an accuracy rate above 95%. SSA Malfavon’s superior financial management skills were particularly evidence during her support of Operation Global Reach where CUC investigations resulted in 60 arrests, 39 indictments, 8 convictions, the seizure of $127,200 in currency/monetary instruments, retention of $91,260 in proceeds, and 1281 pounds of various narcotics.

Senior Special Agent Michelle Malfavon is an accomplished professional who has consistently demonstrated exceptional performance throughout her career. As a role model for women in law enforcement, she has distinguished her force multiplier and subject matter expert who provides critical advice to OPR on the most complex investigative matters.

Jennifer L. McManus

First Assistant United States Attorney U.S. Department of Justice

United States Attorney’s Office Western District of Michigan

First Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer McManus exemplifies the absolute best of federal service. After attaining her degrees from University of Michigan and Harvard Law School, she worked in private practice assuming the position of Assistant United States Attorney in 2003. Jennifer served short stints in both the Civil and Criminal Divisions as a trial attorney but was quickly promoted to Appellate Chief in 2009, a position she held for the next thirteen years. In 2022, Jennifer was appointed as First Assistant and was second-in-command within the office of nearly 100 employees.

Throughout her career, Jennifer’s sharp mind, her sweeping grasp of federal criminal law, and her prowess with a pen have protected the public from some of the gravest threats in our District, while advancing legal protections well beyond. While often lacking the glitz of trial, appellate advocacy not only secures critical wins but can have profound impact, shaping the law of the land beyond any one case.

One of her most notable achievements, which further illustrates her expertise in federal criminal law, was in the case of United States v. Gabrion, 43 F.4th 569 (6th Cir. 2022). Marvin Gabrion is one of the most dangerous individuals ever prosecuted in the Western District of Michigan. Days before 19-year-old Rachel Timmerman was to testify against Gabrion for raping her, Gabrion brutally murdered the young woman; and dropped Rachel alive into a remote lake. The government also presented evidence that Gabrion likely murdered three other people: his accomplice in Rachel’s killing; another witness to the rape; and Rachel’s 11-month-old baby, Shannon. After the McManus team won a conviction at trial, the Court sentenced Gabrion to death.

Jennifer has also trailblazed in our office, creating a path for female attorneys who are also mothers to prioritize and both their families and their careers. And this past year, as First Assistant, Jennifer ensured in writing –by drafting our Flexible Work Options Policy – that women who follow will have the same options.

As First Assistant, Jennifer has continued to create a workplace that values equity and opportunity. Today, nearly 50% of the attorneys in our office are women because of Jennifer’s decisive role in ensuring a strong pool of diverse candidates. In 2023, one of Jennifer’s biggest accomplishments was creating and building our E-Litigation Unit: a team of support staff who helps our lawyers process the explosion of electronic evidence. As a result of her leadership, she created a pathway for promotion on behalf of the support staff.

Within this environment, First Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer McManus has earned a glowing reputation among her fellow practitioners. Jennifer and other women who have excelled in this field are changing the face of appellate law and inspiring others who come behind.

Ariana M. Roddini

Associate Director for Training Operations

U.S. Department of Homeland Security

Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers

Ariana M. Roddini serves as the Federal Law Enforcement Training Centers’ Associate Director for Training Operations. Ms. Roddini provides executive guidance and leadership over FLETC’s training executives and their respective directorates comprising four training campuses, 21 training divisions, 62 branches, and the Office of Medical Oversight. Ms. Roddini has oversight of more than 1,000 employees, representing 71% of FLETC staff. She diligently leads FLETC in successfully training approximately 70,000 students annually from 127 federal agencies from all Cabinet-level departments, and across all three branches of government. During her tenure, FLETC has achieved high satisfaction scores from more than 98% of POs that agree or strongly agree that they are satisfied with FLETC training on FLETC’s annual Partner Organization Satisfaction Survey.

Training Currency/Relevance: Ms. Roddini staunchly supports intradepartmental and interagency collaboration to ensure alignment between training curriculum and operational policy. In FY2023 she facilitated FLETC’s representation on 10 subordinate working groups on the DHS Law Enforcement Coordination Council Use-of-Force Policy Subcommittee and Administrative Subcommittee. These subcommittees yielded positive results in curriculum enhancements to the following topical areas: Environmental Influence on De-Escalation and Decision Making, Duty to Intervene, Bans on Chokeholds and Carotid Restraints, Public Order Policing, and Implicit Bias and Improper Profiling.

Role Model/Advocate: Ms. Roddini is a strong advocate for recruiting and retaining a diverse workforce to create an inclusive, representative, and trusted organization. As a result, she is frequently invited to serve as a keynote speaker and distinguished panelist at various high-profile leadership training events and conferences. One of her most notable accomplishments includes providing executive direction and guidance to the development of the FLETC Gender Identity and Inclusion Working Group White Paper and its associated Action Plan.

Training Delivery Modernization: Ms. Roddini directed and continues to oversee the most significant technological training modernization efforts in a decade. At the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic in FY2020, Ms. Roddini

directed the immediate expansion of FLETC’s distance learning platform, eFLETC, and facilitated the progression of eFLETC from a developmental proof of concept stage to an operational stage in a matter of weeks. In FY2021 alone, FLETC was able to reach more than 9k students through the eFLETC virtual platform, providing training sessions on mission-critical topics of interest to federal law enforcement organizations. She also implemented virtual live instant surveys to students which yielded actionable data provided within 24 hours of the training event.

Ms. Roddini is a proven executive who has sustained her dedication to the American public for 29+ years. She works tirelessly to ensure those who risk their lives for the safety of the public have the training they need to perform effectively, and she has demonstrated that superior mission accomplishment requires sound business processes, careful stewardship of resources, development of a skilled and diverse workforce, cross-government collaboration, and strategic planning.

Thomson Reuters Special Services LLC WIFLE Leadership Award

This award honors an individual who has led the way to developing an effective strategy and initiated an effective partnership with a private sector entity in creating a system or model that prevents crimes. This model may have been developed because of learning from past crimes, or because of thinking proactively and creatively about what can be done to prevent certain crimes from recurring. The objective is to recognize effective affiliations between federal law enforcement and the private sector, which result in successful proactive crime prevention in the community.

Cheri Oz

Special Agent in Charge Drug Enforcement Administration

Special Agent in Charge (SAC) Cheri Oz, Drug Enforcement Administration, has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership in law enforcement. Her dedication to preventing crime has resulted in tangible improvements in public safety. She created two groundbreaking crime prevention models that combined intelligence analysis, situational awareness, and community engagement.

SAC Oz leads a busy Phoenix Division that seized more fentanyl than all other DEA divisions combined in 2023.

In January 2023, SAC Oz began with a vision to create a change to bridge the gap between DEA and the communities DEA serves. She devised

an outreach and engagement group named “DREAM,” Development Recruitment Engagement Media, with a focus of developing new ways to reach the public. Through DREAM’s expansive outreach, SAC Oz has created an additional platform to communicate directly to high school student educators and increase public awareness regarding the dangers of fentanyl, methamphetamine, and fake pills.

SAC Oz also created the DEA Local Enforcement Response Squad, or DEALERS, to tackle drug-related violent crimes in troubled neighborhoods throughout Phoenix’s metropolitan area by focusing on the street and midlevel of organizations. The group hit the streets armed with intelligence and was responsible for 40 percent of the guns seized in the entire Division and 29 percent of the Division’s total assets seized. In 2023, under the new prosecutorial fast track, DEALERS had 123 federal indictments. Since the development of a streamlined prosecution process, the group’s federal arrests have increased by 90 percent.

SAC Oz also Instituted DEALERS TUCSON. The DEALERS mission is such an effective model because it understands the value of human intelligence, the inner workings of the cartels, and how to exploit communications, which has led to significant seizures and arrests. In 2023, DEALERS and DEALERS TUCSON were responsible for 21 percent of the entire Division’s arrests, 28 percent of the weapons seized, and 24 percent of the asset seizures.

SAC Oz’s leadership extends beyond our agency. She collaborates with partners, sharing best practices and fostering innovative solutions to prevent crime at a broader level. SAC Oz embodies the spirit of leadership, innovation, and service that the WIFLE Foundation celebrates. Her contributions have made our community safer, and her model serves as a beacon for law enforcement agencies nationwide.

Top Prosecutor Award

The Top Prosecutor Award recognizes a career federal prosecutor for exemplary achievements in prosecutions of federal crimes involving trafficking of women or children; trafficking of human beings for forced labor; commission of crimes of violence against women or a minority group; a civil rights violation; any terrorist-related violation against the United States; or commission of any corporate or government fraud.

Leslie S. Garthwaite Assistant Deputy Chief U.S. Department of Justice

Criminal Division, Fraud Section

Assistant Deputy Chief Leslie Garthwaite, U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Division Fraud Section’s Market Integrity, and Major Frauds Unit

has exemplified the highest standards of excellence and integrity in federal law enforcement. Her unwavering dedication to upholding justice has been a consistent source of inspiration for her colleagues, setting a commendable example for all.

In 2017, Leslie was selected as a trial attorney in the Health Care Fraud (HCF) unit within the Fraud Section. Her extensive expertise in conducting thorough investigations and formidable prosecutorial skills were instrumental in ensuring the accountability of numerous medical professionals and healthcare company owners engaged in fraudulent activities. Thanks to her dedicated efforts, more than fifteen defendants were successfully convicted. She litigated three cases to verdict and was involved in investigations across eight federal districts. Notably, her work encompassed the prosecution of six medical professionals in the Southern District of Ohio as part of the ARPO Strike Force Initiative.

In 2021, Leslie reached a significant milestone in her career as she was promoted to Assistant Chief. Two years later, in 2023, she took the lead on the United CARES Act Initiative, a dedicated effort aimed at identifying and addressing instances of COVID-19 fraud within the PPP and EIDL programs. Congress established these programs in the CARES Act to provide economic relief to American businesses impacted by the COVID-19 epidemic. In her new role, Leslie assumed the responsibility of overseeing and managing a team of prosecutors who played a pivotal role in successfully prosecuting a Texas man involved in an extensive $35 million fraudulent PPP loan scheme. This initiative led to the charging of forty individuals with cases valued at over $89 million. One of the unit’s significant accomplishments was leading four trials of PPP fraud defendants across multiple districts, which resulted in four convictions. Furthermore, Leslie and her team resolved a substantial volume of additional cases through plea agreements, significantly impacting combating fraudulent activities. Leslie showcased her legal expertise by successfully prosecuting eight defendants in a PPP fraud ring in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. She also made legal history by leading the prosecution in the first successful spoofingbased wire fraud case, United States v. Vorley. Additionally, she played a vital role in the corporate resolution against Deutsche Bank, highlighting her influence and expertise in the legal field.

In 2023, Leslie, the lead prosecutor, handled a complex case involving a $5.5 million illegal kickback scheme and commodities insider trading related to natural gas futures. Leslie initiated an extensive investigation, ultimately prosecuting individuals who pleaded guilty in March 2024. Notably, these convictions represented a significant milestone as they were the first criminal convictions for commodities insider trading.

Leslie is an exceptional colleague and a committed mentor. She effectively supervises and nurtures less-experienced prosecutors, generously

imparting her insights and exercising sound judgment to drive forward the mission of the MIFMI Unit and Fraud Section.

Leslie received her B.A. from the University of Michigan and her J.D. from Georgetown University Law Center. She interned at the United States Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigation during law school. After law school, Leslie worked as an associate at WilmerHale in Washington, D.C., and later as an associate and partner at Kirkland and Ellis in Chicago.

Assistant Chief Leslie Garthwaite’s remarkable proficiency in conducting comprehensive factual and legal analyses is a testament to her unwavering commitment, capacity to propel intricate investigations forward, and proficiency in guiding and overseeing teams. Moreover, these competencies underscore her ability to coordinate and cooperate with law enforcement and civil-regulatory partners to develop and pursue impactful and just cases.

Kate Payerle

Assistant Deputy Chief U.S. Department of Justice Criminal Division, Fraud Section

Katherine “Kate” Payerle is the Assistant Deputy Chief for Trials, playing a crucial role in providing essential guidance and supervision to Trial Attorneys in the HCF Unit for trial preparations nationwide. With her extensive experience and expertise, she is an asset to the Fraud Section’s Health Care Fraud Unit, joining in January 2016. As a trial attorney for the Miami and Gulf Coast Strike Forces, she has successfully prosecuted numerous individuals for various healthcare fraud and drug distributionrelated offenses, from home health to money laundering.

Kate’s prior role encompassed serving as the Assistant Chief of the New England Prescription Opioid Strike Force, overseeing operations in New Hampshire, Vermont, and Maine. Additionally, she was Assistant Chief of the Appalachian Regional Prescription Opioid (ARPO) South Strike Force, managing four districts across Tennessee and Northern Alabama. In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Kate was honored with the Assistant Attorney General’s Award for Exceptional Service for her exceptional work as part of the 2019 ARPO Surge.

In 2021, she completed a 17-month assignment with the Office of Overseas Prosecutorial Development, Assistance, and Training (OPDAT) in Guatemala. This endeavor carried out in collaboration with the American Embassy, aimed to provide training to prosecutors from various Latin American countries. The focus was on enhancing trial skills and strengthening efforts related to white-collar prosecution within their respective nations.

In 2023, faced with significant trial staffing shortages, Kate volunteered and tried five federal trials, all of which resulted in successful convictions. She also agreed to join trial teams on very short notice. She first chaired these trials with junior trial attorneys, putting together the governments, including identifying case themes, and formulating arguments, while mentoring the junior trial partners, providing an incredible hands-on learning experience. Three cases involved complex healthcare fraud schemes amounting to millions of dollars, targeting programs like Medicare and TRICARE. Additionally, she led the prosecution of two critical cases involving the overprescription of opioids to vulnerable individuals.

In the United States v. Sardinia case, Kate led the trial team during a multi-week trial. The team successfully convicted a dentist who knowingly overprescribed opioids to a female dental patient. The patient was a recovering addict, and the overprescribing was done to conceal a poorly performed oral surgery. Tragically, because of the overprescribed medication, the patient relapsed, overdosed on the pain medications, and passed away.

In the case of United States v. Jeffrey Young, Assistant Deputy Chief Payerle led the prosecution against a Tennessee nurse practitioner, infamously known as the “Rock Doc.” This practitioner was convicted of illegally prescribing opioids, such as oxycodone and fentanyl. He issued medically unnecessary controlled substances to hundreds of patients, including a pregnant woman and women with whom he had inappropriate physical relationships. On March 18, 2024, the defendant was sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Kate earned her B.A. from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, a Master of Pacific International Affairs from the University of California, San Diego, and a J.D. from the University of San Diego. After law school, she clerked for the Honorable Dana M. Sabraw in the Southern District of California. Subsequently, she joined Robinson, Bradshaw & Hinson in Charlotte, North Carolina, as an Associate, handling various civil litigation matters for corporate and individual clients.

Assistant Deputy Chief Katherine “Kate” Payerle has established herself as a formidable force in the fight against healthcare fraud. With her extensive education and experience, she has successfully led complex investigations and prosecutions that have resulted in convictions for individuals who have contributed to the opioid epidemic. Her dedication and commitment to seeking justice for victims of overprescribing and illegal distribution of opioids is commendable, as she leads the charge with confidence, authority, and determination in bringing those responsible to justice.

JoAnna G. McFadden

Deputy Criminal Chief, Assistant United States Attorney and Ashley Waid

Assistant United States Attorney

U.S. Department of Justice

United States Attorney’s Office

Middle District of North Carolina

Federal law enforcement has been fortunate to have individuals who embody the qualities of dedication, passion, and unwavering commitment to seeking justice for victims of civil rights violations. Among these remarkable individuals are AUSAs JoAnna McFadden and Ashley Waid. Through their exceptional work and leadership, they have made a profound impact on upholding the rights of vulnerable communities and holding violators accountable. AUSAs McFadden and Waid have set a high standard for future generations of female leaders in federal law enforcement

JoAnn McFadden, Deputy Criminal Chief, and AUSA, has dedicated twelve years to serving with unparalleled commitment. Similarly, AUSA Ashley Waid has significantly impacted the Department of Justice, Middle District of North Carolina, over the past four years. These outstanding prosecutors have been pivotal in addressing one of society’s most urgent issues—civil rights violations. Their relentless efforts have played a crucial role in protecting the rights of marginalized communities, combating hate crimes, and fighting discrimination. Their work not only delivers justice to the wronged but also serves as a powerful deterrent to potential violators.

Their groundbreaking work led to the first civil rights conviction in North Carolina in ten years. This historic conviction resulted from a 2022 tip from the FBI Charlotte, which originated from the National Threat Operations Center. The case involved Marian Hudak, who attempted to force a Black man off the road, pursued him to his residence, and threatened to shoot him and his girlfriend while repeatedly using racial slurs. The FBI investigation revealed multiple incidents in which Hudak exhibited increasingly concerning behaviors, wherein he used racial slurs, made threats, and engaged in aggressive behavior towards Hispanic and Black men, women, and children.

In collaboration with FBI agents AUSA JoAnna and Ashley, they extensively reviewed approximately 44 hours of body-worn camera footage from thirteen incidents. Additionally, they conducted twenty-four interviews with victims and witnesses, obtained multiple subpoenas, executed a search warrant, and meticulously examined substantial digital evidence and surveillance footage.

During the investigation, AUSAs McFadden and Waid scrutinized the evidence and 302s furnished by the case team. Their expeditious responsiveness, continual availability, and legal expertise significantly facilitated the smooth progression of the investigation. This, in turn, led to the establishment of a collaborative partnership with the DOJ Civil Rights Division, thereby securing the formal endorsement of federal hate crime charges by the DOJ Assistant Attorney General.

AUSA McFadden and Waid’s perseverance and dedication shone through as they coordinated and prepared a complaint for Hudak’s arrest and three search warrants instead of waiting for a Grand Jury following DOJ certification of civil rights charges. The FBI effected Hudak’s arrest based on the filed complaint and subsequently executed search warrants on his person, vehicle, and residence. These searches led to the discovery of a KKK flag, three Nazi flags, and a racist pamphlet attributed to “A. Wyatt Mann” in his bedroom. Additionally, an Iron Cross ring was found on his person, along with a Nazi path, more than thirty Confederate flags in his home, and numerous electronic devices in his vehicle and domicile that contained supplementary evidence subsequently utilized during the trial.

AUSAs McFadden and Waid supported the agents during the execution of the search warrants. They quickly reviewed the evidence and thoroughly prepared two agents for the Grand Jury and the detention hearing set for the same day in different cities within the MDNC. With their excellent preparation, outstanding teamwork, and consistent communication with the agents, they successfully prepared agents and approximately 30 witnesses, ensuring that Hudak was indicted and detained pending trial. Their clear guidance facilitated effective communication with law enforcement and civilian witnesses during trial preparation meetings. Their adept handling of unexpected obstacles and issues ensured a smooth trial process and played a significant role in upholding the principles of justice

In January 2024, during the trial proceedings, both Assistant U.S. Attorneys (AUSAs) delivered compelling statements concerning the substantial nature of Hudak’s offenses and their detrimental effects on the psychological well-being of the Black and Hispanic victims, as well as the wider Concord community. The minority members in Concord have conveyed their relief and appreciation, and they can now lead their lives without fear.

Alison L. Gregoire

Criminal Chief, Assistant United States Attorney and Ann Wick

Assistant United States Attorney

U.S. Department of Justice

United States Attorney’s Office

Eastern District of Washington

AUSA Alison Gregoire and Ann Wick are two exemplary prosecutors who have shown unwavering dedication to prosecuting child exploitation cases in the Northwest Region of the United States. Leveraging their extensive legal knowledge and experience, they have led intricate investigations concerning the trafficking and exploitation of women and children, as well as addressing violent offenses, particularly child molestation, sexual assault, and felony assault. They focus on cases involving marginalized communities in Eastern Washington in Indian Country and beyond. Additionally, they have collaborated closely with esteemed community partners, including the YWCA and Lutheran Community Services Northwest, in alignment with the overarching mission of the Department of Justice.

Through their diligent efforts, AUSAs Gregoire and Wick have effectively communicated a resolute stance against child exploitation within their region. This unwavering dedication has contributed to creating a safer environment for all children. Their successful prosecution of high-profile cases, such as those involving Miguel Mondaca and Paul Murray, has further solidified their commitment to upholding justice and protecting vulnerable individuals.

In January 2021, Miguel Mondaca coerced a 12-year-old girl from Washington State into engaging in explicit communications for his sexual gratification. Upon discovering her identity and confirming she was a minor, Mondaca manipulated the victim into sending explicit material and disclosing her location in Spokane, Washington. He meticulously planned to kidnap, rape, and traffic her, even going as far as purchasing tickets and creating an itinerary. Once law enforcement became aware of his intentions, they obtained a warrant, conducted a search, and recovered digital evidence of images and communications. Additionally, they found an extensive collection of child pornography, including material depicting the sexual abuse of toddlers and other children.

Mondaca elected to proceed with a jury trial. Before the scheduled trial date, the previously assigned Assistant United States Attorney (AUSA) took an extended leave of absence, prompting USAs Gregoire and Wick to promptly

assume responsibility for the case. By February 2023, the jury found Mondaca guilty on all counts. He was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison and a lifetime of supervised release. The court awarded the young victim $30,000 in restitution to cover the extensive therapy she will require due to Mondaca’s actions.

The unwavering determination and steadfast effort of AUSA Gregoire and Wick, alongside their close collaboration with law enforcement agencies in Washington State and Arizona, were instrumental in achieving the successful prosecution, securing a conviction, and obtaining favorable outcomes in this particularly egregious case.

In late 2022, they achieved similar results in the United States v. Paul Murray case. Paul Murray, the defendant, pleaded guilty in March 2022 to possessing child pornography, having accumulated thousands of images depicting the abuse of infants and toddlers. Just moments before jury selection, he chose to plead guilty. He was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and was ordered to pay over $24,000 in restitution to his victims.

During their leadership roles at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, AUSAs Gregoire and Wick have been unwavering in their commitment to mentoring and guiding less experienced Assistant US Attorneys. Their dedicated efforts have been focused on relentlessly pursuing justice for victims of heinous crimes. They have worked tirelessly to ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice and passionately advocated for comprehensive support and resources for survivors to aid their healing and recovery. Their steadfast dedication to justice, leadership, and mentorship has not only set the stage for positive change but also served as an inspiration for women in law enforcement.

WIFLE

WIFLE Partnership Award

Outstanding Contribution of a State or Local Officer Serving on a Federal Task Force

This award recognizes the exceptional investigative work of a state or local law enforcement officer in a task force group or in a task force environment investigating individual(s) engaged in the trafficking of women or children for sexual exploitation or any individual for forced labor; crime(s) of violence against women or any minority group; civil rights violation(s); any terrorist-related violation(s) against the United States; or any corporate or governmental fraud.

Danielle Brouard Task Force Officer

Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office in partnership with Homeland Security Investigations

Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Task Force Officer (TFO) Danielle Brouard has served honorably with the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office (SCSO). Because of her devout commitment to law enforcement excellence, she has also served in a dual-hatted position as a sworn TFO with HSI’s Long Island Division for the past 6 years.

Throughout her tenure with HSI, TFO Brouard has played an integral role in combatting human trafficking and sex trafficking cases where she utilized her superior investigative skills to dismantle multiple criminal networks. During one of her high-profile investigations, TFO Brouard initiated a case involving an incarcerated victim who was allegedly being forced into prostitution through threats of violence by David Amin. In conjunction with the Suffolk County Police Department (SCPD), TFO Brouard revealed that Amin was the target of a fentanyl overdose death investigation.

On February 1, 2023, TFO Brouard and her HSI team identified two additional female victims who were forced into prostitution through violence threats and coercion by David Amin. Following TFO Brouard’s multiple interviews with the female victims, they corroborated that Amin’s brother Bryce physically harmed them, forced them to work in prostitution, and collected their sex trafficking proceeds. Without regard for her own personal safety, TFO Brouard conducted 10 undercover buy/walks of fentanyl and cocaine. On March 1, 2023, David Amin and Bryce Amin were indicted by a federal grand jury, within EDNY, in a fifteen-count indictment for the following violations: Conspiracy to Distribute/Possess Controlled Substances, Conspiracy to Distribute/Possess Cocaine Base, Sex Trafficking Conspiracy

and Interstate Prostitution. After executing search warrants at David Amin’s residences, TFO Brouard and her HSI team seized approximately $390,000 in U.S. currency, a 2021 Mercedes AMO SUV, a 2021 BMW 550, various electronic devices, and miscellaneous documents.

Separately, TFO Brouard received information from the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) regarding a missing 17-year-old female forced into prostitution in Nassau County by a subject identified as Joshua LampleyReid. She subsequently located and interviewed the victim who confirmed that she had been forced into prostitution in New York as well as other states, on behalf of Lampley-Reid – a member of the “Mac Baller Bloods” street gang.

Task Force Officer Danielle Brouard has consistently excelled in critical programmatic investigative areas. Her exceptional contributions have made an indelible mark on the entire agency and the community she serves. As a role model for women in federal law enforcement, TFO Brouard has saved countless victims whose lives have been significantly impacted by her steadfast dedication to excellence and commitment to duty.

Amie Le Task Force Officer

Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department in partnership with Drug Enforcement Administration

Task Force Officer (TFO) Amie Le began her career in law enforcement with the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Office in 2012. Eight years later, she received the honor of being assigned to the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Boston Tactical Diversion Squad (TDS) Task Force where she continues to share her unwavering commitment to investigative excellence.

TFO Amie Le was the co-case agent of a Title III Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation initiated by the DEA Boston TDS and dubbed “Operation Midas Touch.” This investigation involved parties in Boston, Massachusetts area importing substantial amounts of crystal methamphetamine from California and then distributing it throughout the New England region.

Over the next several months, TFO Le, who worked in an undercover capacity, began purchasing ketamine, methamphetamine pills, fentanyl pills, and cocaine from various targets in the New England region.

TFO Le received confidential source Information regarding a large-scale methamphetamine trafficker in California and Mexico connected to the Sinaloa Cartel. TFO Le assisted in identifying this individual directed the confidential source to order narcotics, plan controlled buys, coordinate payments to the targets, and maintain all evidence. TFO Le and DEA

Boston TDS traveled to California to work with the DEA Los Angeles Field Division and through a confidential source seized 100 pounds of crystal methamphetamine, 30,000 fentanyl pills, and 70 pounds of marijuana. Three of the individuals arrested were connected to the Sinaloa Cartel. Task Force Officer Amie Le continues to demonstrate her exceptional investigative skills and devout commitment to law enforcement. Her outstanding contributions to this profession will undoubtedly serve to inspire future generations of women who are destined for excellence.

Axon/WIFLE Foundation

Public Service Award

This award salutes the exemplary performance of career civil servants who consistently contributed to the public interests of our country. These distinguished careers extend over at least 20 years. The selections are made from nominations WIFLE receives each year from all award categories. The award winners are recognized for particular career achievements and serve as role models for all women in law enforcement.

Brandi Adamchik

Senior Special Agent

U.S. Department of Interior Office of Law Enforcement and Security

Senior Special Agent Brandi Adamchik has served her law enforcement position with distinction over the past 25 years with the U.S. Department of Interior. She is currently leading Secretary Haaland’s Law Enforcement Task Force Working Group to enhance public trust. While assigned to the National Park Service, she served in numerous operational and administrative assignments – most notably at the executive command rank of Captain and the last four years as a Senior Special Agent (SSA) within the Office of the Secretary.

While serving in this important role as SSA, Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland initiated a DOI Law Enforcement Task Force (LETF). Brandi was selected to lead the LETF Working (WG) Group focusing on ways to (1) strengthen trust in DOI law enforcement programs; (2) ensure appropriate policy and oversight is implemented; and (3) ensure supportive resources are available for officer mental health, wellness, and safety. Incorporating this collaborative methodology has advanced the transparency, engagement, and a unified vision for the Department, the workforce, and the law enforcement function. DOI is currently implementing the actions of

this LETF Report which was designed to enhance the public trust of its law enforcement officers.

In addition to SSA Adamchik’s proactive and engaged leadership, she has achieved the following results on behalf of DOI:

» Updated and enhanced the OLES LE Portal to include Department policy consolidation and updates, which ensures transparency of and ease of access to information.

» Established a public facing webpage to communicate DOI’s progress in enhancing public trust.

» Prioritized and updated critical policies (including Use of Force and Body Worn Camera), which are now publicly available.

» Prioritized the mental health and wellness of DOI law enforcement officers through the LETF WG; through an EO 14074 partnership with the Department of Justice and Health and Human Services; and by leveraging a consortium of cross-discipline stakeholders to develop a unified “first responder” approach to these critical services and resources.

» Developed a QuickSeries pocket guide for Mental Health & Wellness for DOI Law Enforcement.

» Ensured law enforcement priorities were included in DOI’s FY2022-2026 Strategic Plan.

Senior Special Agent Brandi Adamchik has been a visionary and change agent for women in federal law enforcement. She has inspired a unified vision for the future of our law enforcement programs and the Department of Interior.

Karen A. Damato Technical Advisor United States Secret Service

Ms. Karen A. Damato has been a distinguished employee of the United States Secret Service (USSS) for over 28 years. Ms. Damato began her career in 1995 as a Uniformed Division (UD) law enforcement officer. As a UD officer, she provided physical security for the White House complex, the Vice President’s residence, and foreign diplomatic missions and embassies in the Washington, DC area. In 1999, she was reassigned to the Protective Intelligence and Assessment Division (PID). There she served in several different capacities to include an intelligence analyst and was assigned to manage subjects determined by the USSS to be the most dangerous to our protective mission.

As one of the Secret Service’s first Threat Assessment Specialists, Ms. Damato conducted comprehensive research on behavioral-based threat indicators and implemented training programs pertaining to threat assessment, protective intelligence, and targeted violence, specifically in the areas of assassination, terrorism, and school attacks.

In 2023, Ms. Damato was responsible for creating the first-ever USSS Counterintelligence Program. This program supports USSS personnel traversing the globe providing physical protection to a record-high number of protectees in a geopolitical landscape that places our personnel in an unintended counterintelligence risk spotlight 24/7. Foreign Intelligence Entities (FIE) may seek to target our protected persons, facilities, or personnel. While the USSS is charged with leading the protection of designated National Special Security Events (NSSEs), the role of the PID Counterintelligence program receives special emphasis as these events typically draw attendance from world leaders from near and far which increase the risk of FIE activity against the United States and its allies. Under Ms. Damato’s leadership, the Counterintelligence program authored and disseminated six products to the USSS workforce prior to the NSSEs, which highlighted potential counterintelligence concerns the USSS may face during the events. These daily intelligence briefings were disseminated to USSS senior executives on twelve occasions throughout the duration of the NSSEs.

Ms. Damato provides expert advice on the overall efforts, initiatives, implementation and development of modern protective intelligence research, analysis, assessment methodologies, and programs in furtherance of both the protective and investigative mission.

As the agency’s Chief Protective Intelligence Advisor for the Office of Strategic Intelligence and Information, Karen Damato’s proven record of leading organizational change that have resulted in significant positive impacts to the USSS in the field of intelligence has set her apart from all others. Her actions, including the creation of the USSS’ first Counterintelligence program, have positively impacted protective intelligence and threat assessments in furtherance of safeguarding our nation’s leaders for decades.

Julie Gray Special Agent

U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General

In 2010, Julie Gray joined the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Miami Regional Office (MRO) as a Special Agent/Criminal Investigator. Since joining HHS-OIG, SA Gray has conducted numerous criminal and civil healthcare fraud investigations – which have resulted in fifty-four criminal indictments, sixty-five criminal convictions, and the recovery of $83 million in restitution to Medicare, Medicaid, and other HHS programs.

SA Gray is currently assigned to the HHS-OIG Jacksonville Field Office where she leads investigations of complex healthcare fraud schemes

involving diagnostic labs, hospice care, hospitals, corrupt physicians, and criminal diversion of dangerous opioids.

SA Gray has also investigated grant and contract fraud cases involving persons and companies defrauding HHS programs. One of her cases involved companies submitting fraudulent claims to Medicare. The subjects used telemarketing call centers to deceive patients into providing their Medicare numbers to purchase expensive tests in order to determine their risk for cancer. This scheme enabled the laboratories to submit fraudulent claims to the Medicare program and was part of a $2 billion health care fraud conspiracy. SA Gray’s efforts led to leading marketer pleading guilty to the healthcare fraud kickback scheme. Additional co-conspirators were eventually charged and convicted in separate cases. In April 2023, the primary defendant was sentenced to thirty-three months in federal prison and ordered to more than $50 million in restitution to various government healthcare programs.

SA Gray has established a reputation as a leader in fraud investigations in the Middle District of Florida. She has been recognized with numerous awards, including the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida Outstanding Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award for 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017, 2020, 2022, and 2023.

Special Agent Julie Gray is unwavering in her dedication and has consistently maintained a superior level of performance, serving as a beacon of inspiration for HHS-OIG’s female agents and other women throughout the law enforcement profession.

Jasmine S. Johnson

Supervisory Special Agent

U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development Protective Services Division

Supervisory Special Agent (SSA) Jasmine Johnson has demonstrated her steadfast commitment to excellence by serving as a role model for women in law enforcement. She began her federal career as a correctional officer for the Federal Bureau of Prisons and quickly discovered the importance of effective communication. Other correctional officers often wondered how she was able to get difficult inmates to comply with her requests. Her answer was simple: Treat everyone with dignity and respect. Speaking to someone – instead of at them – is essential for compliance. At the outset of her dedicated career, Jasmine served as a police officer at the Supreme Court of the United States with the positional authority to protect nine Supreme Court Justices, including Justices Sandra Day O’Connor and Ruth Bader Ginsburg. When she was not working protective assignments, SSA Johnson served as the supervisor of the Command

Center at the Supreme Court where she managed daily reports, security records, on-site operations, and coordinated logistical movements of the protective details.

In her current role as Supervisory Special Agent with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s (HUD) Protective Services Division, Jasmine has held various positions as Detail Leader, Advance Agent, Administrative Agent, Physical Security Specialist, and Field Training Officer. It is inconsequential to SSA Johnson whether she is traveling within the United States or aboard, her primary duty is to ensure the safety and security of the Secretary of Department of Housing and Urban Development. Regardless of her assignment, SSA Johnson recognizes the importance of her critical duties and responsibilities and stands ready to execute the mission.

In 2020, SSA Johnson’s attention to detail averted an unscheduled security movement to the White House related to the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic. She advised the Acting Director of her findings, quickly rebounded, and ensured that her principal responded to the Office of the Vice President for this critical meeting. Her quick response, while on maternity leave, prevented any negative consequences or national health and security ramifications.

Supervisory Special Agent Jasmine Johnson has fostered many longstanding relationships that have garnered the respect and admiration of her colleagues. In 2015, she earned her master’s degree in criminal justice from Boston University and graduated with honors while simultaneously working at HUD. Her dedication, professionalism, commitment to duty, and exceptional leadership are certainly worthy of the highest commendation.

WIFLE Foundation President’s Award

This award is the highest honorary award given by WIFLE to recognize an individual who has demonstrated exceptional dedication to government service and/or through their work, has furthered WIFLE’s mission by actively contributing to the recruitment, hiring, retention, and advancement of women in federal law enforcement. The award is presented by the Board of Directors of the WIFLE Foundation.

Maureen Q. McGough, Esq. Co-Founder

30x30 Initiative

Maureen Q. McGough, Esq. is a tireless and vocal champion for women in law enforcement as the co-founder of the 30x30 Initiative to Advance Women in Policing. The daughter of a police officer, she grew up with a

profound respect for law enforcement. But her work as an attorney at the U.S. Department of Justice (USDOJ) exposed her to the deep-seated biases and structural barriers that pose undue and unfair challenges to women in the profession and prevent some women from joining it altogether. McGough founded the 30x30 Initiative with former Newark Police Chief, Ivonne Roman, to disrupt the male-dominated status quo and ensure equitable opportunities for women in policing. McGough met Roman through her work as a senior policy advisor for the USDOJ’s National Institute of Justice (NIJ). After Chief Roman notified the NIJ of a significant and disturbing increase of women washing out of the academy in New Jersey, the two joined forces to understand the state of women in law enforcement and what could and should be done to improve it.

Over three years, they scoured the literature, established a steering committee of women law enforcement leaders and researchers, and identified actions departments could and should take to advance women through their 30x30 Pledge. The 30x30 Pledge provides a framework to identify and remedy inherent biases in assessments and procedures, ensure policies meet the unique needs of women officers, and transform agency culture. In fostering these changes, 30x30 hopes to see women making up 30% of police recruit classes by the year 2030.

McGough and Roman launched 30x30 in 2021 with 34 participating agencies, and it has grown to include nearly 400 law enforcement agencies across the U.S. and Canada. In 2022, McGough began a detail with the DOJ to advance 30x30’s objectives in the federal space. McGough was thrilled to partner with WIFLE that year, and credits WIFLE for 30x30’s growing traction with federal agencies.

Though the Initiative is young, progress is already evident. Many agencies report improving their support for parents and caregivers, ensuring women-specific uniforms and PPE, removing bias and subjectivity from assessments, improving sexual harassment investigative procedures, and designing inclusive recruitment strategies, with some already reporting 30% women in their recruit classes. 30x30 recently began advocating for state legislation and standards to advance their objectives; Hawaii just became the first state to pass a legislative mandate for law enforcement agencies to pursue 30x30’s objectives (the bill is awaiting the governor’s signature).

McGough began her career as a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Columbia. She later joined the NIJ, where she served as Senior Policy Advisor to the Director. She focused on transnational issues, overseeing research and policy development related to human trafficking and domestic radicalization, and representing the U.S. at the United Nations Crime Prevention and Criminal Justice Programme Network (UN PNI). While at NIJ, she also conceptualized and launched the Law Enforcement Advancing Data and Science (LEADS) Program to advance evidence-based

policing. Under her leadership, the program grew to a multi-million-dollar flagship initiative that has inspired similar efforts across the globe.

McGough served on temporary assignments to the U.S. Embassy in Kigali, Rwanda, where she was responsible for coordinating federal AIDS relief efforts, and to the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, where she served as counsel on terrorism prevention. She also co-led the development of a partnership with the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) and the Department of State’s Counterterrorism Bureau, leveraging lessons learned in rural US law enforcement to support KWS counter-poaching efforts in Kenya’s national parks.

In 2020, McGough joined the Policing Project at the New York University Law School as the Director of Strategic Initiatives. There, she led efforts to establish basic minimum standards for law enforcement agencies and reimagine public safety systems. Earlier this year, McGough was appointed the founding Executive Director of the Excellence in Policing and Public Safety Program (EPPS) at the University of South Carolina School of Law. Established through a $10 million appropriation from the state legislature, the center aims to advance fair and effective public safety through law enforcement education and professional development, training, technical assistance, and research partnerships.

McGough sits on the FBI’s Law Enforcement Education and Training Council, the Policing Leadership Academy’s advisory board, the American Society of Evidence-Based Policing’s executive board and is a recent public leadership executive fellow at the Brookings Institute’ Her work has been featured in the New York Times, Washington Post, CNN, ABC News, Slate, Vox Media, and Cosmopolitan.

She earned her JD from the George Washington University Law School, with a certificate in international human rights law from Oxford University. McGough is deeply indebted to her friends and partners at WIFLE for their steady stream of guidance, motivation, and fellowship. McGough extends profound gratitude to her 30x30 co-founder, Chief (ret.) Ivonne Roman for her vision, partnership, and friendship. She is grateful for the rest of the 30x30 leadership team (Dr. Tanya Meisenholder, Ganesha Martin, and Christine Cole) and the many women and men who have joined the 30x30 mission – without whom none of this would be remotely possible. Most importantly, she would like to thank her husband Michael, who has been steadily by her side for the late nights, hectic travel schedule, hate mail, self-doubt, and all the other joys that come with disrupting the status quo. His kindness, patience, and belief in the mission and her ability to achieve it kept her going on the tougher days.

And to all of the women in law enforcement across the country, thank you for your service. We ride at dawn.

25th Anniversary Special Recognition Award

In honor of WIFLE’s 25th Anniversary, our Executive Board would like to present a special recognition award: WIFLE’s Lifetime Achievement Award. This award recognizes individuals – who throughout their lifetimes – have inspired the lives of women in federal law enforcement through their immeasurable contributions to the Interagency Committee on Women in Federal Law Enforcement (ICWIFLE), Women in Federal Law Enforcement, Inc., and WIFLE Foundation, Inc.

The 2024 Lifetime Achievement Award recipients are:

Elizabeth M. Casey 1999–2024 and Dorene F. Erhard 1999–2024

in grateful recognition of your steadfast leadership, extraordinary commitment, and unwavering support in your role as a WIFLE Board Member.

“And

to all of the women in law enforcement across the country, thank you for your service. We ride at dawn.”

–Maureen McGough, Co-Founder of the 30x30 Initiative

Lifetime Achievement Award

2024 WIFLE Scholarship Winners

The WIFLE Foundation, Inc. through the WIFLE Scholarship Fund offers scholarships to talented individuals to meet the demand in the field of law enforcement and to foster the professional development of those engaged in law enforcement. Scholarships are awarded based on the student’s academic potential, achievement, and commitment to serving their local communities.

This year, WIFLE is proud to announce WIFLE scholarships are being awarded to the following:

Jennifer Fuller Colorado

WIFLE’s 25th Anniversary Scholarship

Giavanna Alimenti North Carolina

WIFLE Scholarship

Kayla Boulton Ohio

WIFLE Scholarship

Taylor Dastoli Maine

WIFLE Scholarship

Julianna Molina New York

WIFLE Scholarship

Awarded in Partnership with CDG Solutions LLC

Ruby Recio New Jersey

WIFLE Scholarship

Awarded in Partnership with Axon

Madison Speer

Ohio

WIFLE Scholarship

Awarded in Partnership with WIFLE Supporters

Chief Vera Bumpers, Cedria V. Davis, Cerelyn “CJ” Davis, Chief U. Reneé Hall, Erica Pratcher Morales, and Dr. Rhonda Glover Reese

Beverly Liu

Texas

WIFLE Members Only Scholarship

Awarded in Partnership with WIFLE Supporter Ryker Thompson

Congratulations to our 2024 WIFLE Scholarship Winners!

WIFLE Foundation, Inc.

Board of Directors and Executives

Catrina M. Bonus President, WIFLE Foundation, Inc. and Executive Director, WIFLE, Inc.

Jessie L. Lane Vice President, WIFLE Foundation, Inc. and Deputy Executive Director, WIFLE, Inc.

Margaret M. Moore Chair, Board of Directors, WIFLE Foundation, Inc.

Melissa Lucio Secretary, WIFLE Foundation, Inc.

Elizabeth M. Casey Board Member

Dorene F. Erhard Board Member

Amy Jo Lyons Board Member

Lynda R. Williams Board Member

Barbara D. Linney Partner, BakerHostetler, General Counsel, WIFLE Foundation, Inc. and WIFLE, Inc.

WIFLE Foundation, Inc. Senior Advisors

Janice Ayala

Director, Joint Task Force Investigations

Homeland Security Investigations

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (Retired)

Heather C. Fischer

Senior Advisor, Social Impact & Human Rights

Thomson Reuters Special Services, LLC

2024 Center for Strategy and International Studies (CSIS) Strategy and Statecraft Fellow

Dr. Jean Kanokogi, Ph.D.

Senior Special Agent

Office of Criminal Investigations

Food and Drug Administration (Retired)

Regina Lombardo

Chief Security Officer for the Metropolitan Museum of Art

Acting Director Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (Retired)

Carolyn J. McMillon, MA, ACC

Owner, ASK-Coaching-Training-Consulting, The Power of 3, LLC.

Executive, Office of Equity and Employee Support Services

U.S. Secret Service (Retired)

Dr. Helen H. Yu

Associate Professor University of Hawai’i at Mānoa

Women in Federal Law Enforcement, Inc. Executive Committee Members

Sheree L. Mixell

Chair, Board of Directors, WIFLE, Inc.

Women in Federal Law Enforcement, Inc.

Amber Jordan, Esq.

Office of Counsel, Inspector Attorney Labor and Litigation Group

U.S. Postal Inspection Service

President, Women in Federal Law Enforcement, Inc.

Carol A. Paterick

Historian/Webmaster

Administrative Technical

Assistant Chief – INTERPOL U.S. (Retired)