QluJuQ?rB - Ocala.com
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QluJuQ?rB - Ocala.com
Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 1 of 65 PageID 126 IN THE UNITED STATES DISTRICT COURT MIDDLE DISTRICT OF FLORIDA OCALA DIVISION UNITED STATES OF AMERICA CASE NO.: 5:15-cr-35-0c-10PRL vs. JAMES LOUIS AMIDEI, Defendant. ---------------------------------------------------------./ NOTICE OF FILING PLEASE TAKE NOTICE that the Defendant, JAMES LOUIS AMIDE I, by and through his undersigned counsel, hereby gives notice of filing the following document: • Comprehensive Sentencing Mitigation Report This document is filed on behalf of Defendant for purposes of sentencing mitigation in the above-styled case, and for all other allowable purposes under federal law. CERTIFICATE OF SERVICE IHEREB Y CERTIFY that a true and correct copy of the foregoing has been furnished by electronic service to United States Attorney A. Lee Bentley, III, lee.bentley@usdoj.gov usaflm.ecf@usdoj.gov; Assistant United States Attorney Mark Blumberg, mark.blumberg@usdoi.gov; maura.white@usdoj.gov; and Assistant United States Attorney Maura White, this 13th day of April, 2016. QluJuQ?rB~ Therese Misita Truelove, Esquire Therese Misita Truelove, P.A. P.O. Box 2566 Daytona Beach, Florida 32115 (386) 254-8603/(386) 257-6516 FAX therese@tmtruelovelaw.com Fla. Bar No.: 0245770 ATTORNEY FOR DEFENDANT and Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 2 of 65 PageID 127 UNITED STATESDISTRICT COURT MIDDLE DISTRICTOF FLORIDA MIDDLE DIVISION UNITED STATESOF AMERICA v. Case No. S:lS-CR-35-0C-IOPRL James Louis Amidei, Defendant COMPREHENSIVE SENTENCING MITIGATION REPORT Prepared by The Cord Strategies Group, LLC Jacksonville, Florida Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 3 of 65 PageID 128 Contents Introduction 1 Current Posture of the Defendant 1 The Nature and Characteristics of the Offense/Factors in Mitigation of the O~n~ 4 History and Characteristics of the Defendant 5 Post Offense Rehabilitation 7 Community Support 8 Factors Militating in Favor of Downward Departure 10 Statistical Information 12 Defendant's Status as a "True" First Time Offender 13 Factors Militating in Favor of a Variance from the Advisory Guidelines 14 Alternatives to Incarceration 16 Stakeholders Attitudes toward Sentencing Mitigation 16 Conclusion 19 Appendix Exhibits A-L Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 4 of 65 PageID 129 Comprehensive Sentencing Mitigation Report James Louis Amidei Case No. S:lS-CR-3S-0C-IOPRL Introduction According to the provisions of 18 U.S.c. § 3553(a), the court shall impose a sentence that is sufficient, but not greater than necessary, to comply with statutory purposes of sentencing, and in determining such sentence, the court shall consider, inter alia, (1) the nature and circumstances of the offense and the history and characteristics of the defendant, and (2) the need for the sentence imposed as set forth in § 3553(a)(2). In consideration of the sentence that must be imposed in this case,James Louis Amidei respectfully requests that the Court consider the following information in mitigation of his sentence: Current Posture of the Defendant The Defendant's Response to HisStatus On July 29, 2015, James Louis Amidei pleaded guilty to one count of deprivation of rights under color of law. Mr. Amidei has entered into a written plea agreement with the government, and has acknowledged responsibility for the offense as charged. He has remained completely cooperative with the government, and has fulfilled the terms of his plea agreement. Mr. Amidei has fully come to terms with his tremendous error in judgment since the government's case against him has come into fruition. Mr. Amidei greatly laments his involvement in this offense, and the associated harm to the victim, aswell as the costs and inconvenience to the government and the people of the United States.' Mr. Amidei specifically stated: I was emotionally down after the incident occurred. It happened about seven months before the birth of my daughter. In hindsight, although what I did was wrong, it may have happened to me providentially because I certainly have 1Amidei, James. Personal interview. 26 February 2016. 1 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 5 of 65 PageID 130 learned much from it. When something goes wrong in your life, you start to question your faith. But it was like being in the wrong place at the right time. It made me question my career in law enforcement. It may be that if I had continued in law enforcement, if not for this circumstance, I could have been shot, or worse. So, in that way, although I committed a crime, I try to look forthe positive lessons. Having said that, I can state that no one deserves the treatment received by the victim. I know it was wrong. With this event happening just a few days after the Ferguson incident, I can appreciate why some in the country don't want to trust police, and why they resort to protest. According to the presentence report, Mr. Amidei made an initial appearance on January 9, 2015, pursuant to a notice to appear, and was released on a personal recognizance bond with pretrial supervision. Mr. Amidei has kept faith with the court's order and has fully complied with all of the terms and conditions of his release. As of the date of sentencing, Mr. Amidei will have successfully completed approximately nine months on pretrial supervision. Family's Response to Defendant'S Status Mr. Amidei's involvement in the instant offense, and his subsequent prosecution, has caused significant emotional dislocation for his immediate and extended family members. His wife was almost seven months pregnant at the time of the offense. While in that state, she had to endure the intrusion into her home by federal law enforcement officers, seeking to confiscate Mr. Amidei's work phone. Mr. Amidei and his wife had to undergo the arduous task of helping his older daughter emotionally process the situation during the chaos associated with the official investigation. Today, the family is still reeling from the emotional consequences of Mr. Amidei's conduct. Collateral Consequences of the Offense In addition to the usual consequences of incurring a felony conviction, such as the loss of certain civil rights, such as the privilege of voting and firearms ownership, Mr. Amidei has realistically forfeited any opportunity to resume a career in law enforcement, a career that was a lifelong objective. Mr. Amidei and his family have been forced to incur the stigma of his being involved in this offense which was captured on videotape for permanent looping over the Internet. In fact, Mr. Amidei's then 12-year-old 2 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 6 of 65 PageID 131 daughter, who is described as timid, was forced to incur the humiliation relentlessly inquired into the status offather's arrest and termination of her schoolmates, who from the Sheriff's Office. The loss of Mr. Amidei's position with the Sheriff's Office caused considerable financial impacts on the family. Mr. Amidei was forced to resign his position a day before his plea hearing, and accept significantly lower pay as an employee of his brother's company. The position came with no benefits. Although Mr. Amidei's wife had health insurance coverage on herself, and their subsequently new-born daughter, Mr. Amidei was forced to make out of pocket payments for health insurance for himself in the amount of $350 per month, for at least a six month period. Additionally, when his wife gave birth to their daughter, she remained on maternity leave for a period of 12 weeks at 60 percent of her regular salary. This all came with Mr. Amidei's new pre-tax wages of only $20,000, in 2015. Although Mr. Amidei has retained the full support of his wife, the circumstances of this event placed a measure of strain on his marriage that may require future marriage counseling. Finally, Mr. Amidei has served as a coach of his daughter's little league softball team for the past several years. The subject matter of his federal conviction may pose a future problem for his ability to remain vetted to coach little league sports in the State of Florida. Under Florida law, independent sanctioning to conduct authorities for little league sports teams are required screenings for each athletic coach authorized by the sanctioning annual background authority, to function as a coach, assistant coach, or referee for 20 or more hours within a calendar year, whether for compensation or as a volunteer, for a youth athletic team based in this state.' Although Mr. Amidei's offense does not involve the abuse of children, there is a possibility that his federal conviction may be construed in a way as to disqualify him from future participation 2 in coaching little league softball. Fla. Stat. Ann. § 943.0438. 3 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 7 of 65 PageID 132 The Nature and Circumstances of the Offense/Factors in Mitigation of the Offense There are several factors in mitigation of the offense that may be pertinent to the provisions of USSG§lBl.4 (Information to Be Used in Imposing Sentence; Selecting a Point within the Guideline Range or Departing from the Guidelines).3 First, Mr. Amidei has no history of criminal convictions, zero criminal history points, and a designation of criminal history category I. As a former law enforcement officer, Mr. Amidei had no previous arrests or contact with the legal system prior to his involvement in the instant offense. Second, prior to the commission of the instant offense, Mr. Amidei had been a member of the Marion County Sheriff's Office in good standing for three years. As such, his employment record was clear of any disciplinary actions or complaints from within or without the agency. To the contrary, Mr. Amidei had received several commendations from multiple law enforcement agencies." Mr. Amidei was one of the least experienced officers on the team executing the arrest, and had volunteered for the duty which occasioned his presence on the day of the assault. Third, although the victim's rights were violated during the unlawful assault administered by some members ofthe Marion County Sheriffs Office, Mr. Amidei did not participate in the physicalforce against the victim. To the contrary, Mr. Amidei was noticeably in shock, initially, by the behavior of his fellow officers, and demonstrated confusion and reluctance at the scene of the event. As reflected in Mr. Amidei's statement to the probation office, "... [a]fter the incident, I approached a captain that was on the scene, and explained to him that this incident was not good...." Although Mr. Amidei participated in the lawful chase of the victim, he was able to control his emotions and adrenaline, and refrained from the A court is not precluded from considering any information that the guidelines do not take into account in determining a sentence within the guideline range, or from considering that information in determining whether, and to what extent, to depart from the guidelines. USSG§lBl.4, comment. (backg'd.]. 3 4 Appendix Exhibit A. 4 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 8 of 65 PageID 133 violence exhibited demonstrated by other of the group. Accordingly, on two occasions, Mr. Amidei a moral restraint not exhibited by several of the other officers on the scene. Fourth, following pain in his shoulder. repositioned members the arrest, while at his house, the victim complained that he was experiencing In response to that situation, Mr. Amidei removed the victim's handcuffs and them from the back to the front to afford the victim a measure of relief from some of his pain. Furthermore, when the victim asked if he could have a drink of water, Mr. Amidei asked the agent if he would get the victim a serving of Gatorade. Amidei acknowledged During this impromptu to the victim that the treatment conversation with the victim, Mr. he received was wrong. History and Characteristics of the Defendant The following information regarding Mr. Amidei's history and characteristics is offered as a supplement to the very thorough presentence investigation and report conducted by the United States Probation Office: Mr. Amidei's background reflects a history of overcoming obstacles on his way to responsible adulthood. As the presentence report reflects, Mr. Amidel's early life began inauspiciously with the divorce of his parents when he was age three. Although Mr. Amidei reported that his childhood was happy, he was forced to cope with relationship changes by both parents during his prepubescent and adolescent years. As a consequence of those circumstances, Mr. Amidei was situationally exposed to poverty and residential dislocations. With Mr. Amidei's mother having early struggles to comfortably care for the defendant, and his father's transitory status as a truck driver, Mr. Amidei often found himself in a form of survival mode from an emotional perspective. This orientation left Mr. Amidei with the attitude that he "had to do everything for mvself."" Sid. Amidei, James. 5 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 9 of 65 PageID 134 Although deprived of emotional stability for much of his childhood, circumstance to develop strong personal characteristics husband, responsible father, and a positive contributor been married twice, and has two daughters. for this report. that have facilitated to his community Mr. Amidei his transition and society. used that into a good Mr. Amidei has Mr. Amidei's current wife, Jennifer Amidei, was interviewed Ms. Amidei has been in a relationship with Mr. Amidei for 10 years, and has been married to him for seven years. They have an infant daughter, Addalyn, who was born in February 2015.6 Addalyn was born with pneumonia, and was in the neonatal intensive care unit for six days. This situation was very stressful for the family both emotionally, and psychologically. In reflecting on Mr. Amidei's state of mind during the timeframe leading up to the commission of the offense, she indicated: We were newlyweds, having been married on September 14, 2013, we became pregnant in May 2014. That is one of the things that spurred Jim to volunteer to work special details to try and get ahead in his career. He did everything that he could do that was extra. One of his experiences he had before the time of the offense was when he tried out for the K-9 unit. He became sick during his last tryout and couldn't complete the test. As to the nature of the offense, I know that Jim was feeling undue pressure. Ordinarily, Jim is very relaxed and easy going. He has a good sense of humor, and does not take himself too seriously. He is a very involved father, and is passionate about being a girls' softball coach. Jim helps his older daughter with her homework, and makes sure that she works hard. He is showing her a good example by returning to college, after what has happened to him. Jim has learned what he did wrong in failing to follow through with the information he had. It has cost him his career, and placed him at a vocational crossroad. Jim hasthe support of all who know him.? All of the community agrees that Mr. Amidei is a conscientious and devoted father to his children. Nowhere is that dedication more epitomized than in Mr. Amidei's relationship with his older daughter, Aubrey. Aubrey is a straight A student in the eighth grade at LakeWeir Middle School, where her favorite 6 Appendix Exhibit B. 7 Arnidei, Jennifer. Personal interview. 27 March 2016. 6 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 10 of 65 PageID 135 subject is sclence." She is pitcher on the softball teams coached by her father. Aubrey offered the following reflections on her father: My dad is very hardworking and goes above and beyond what is necessary. He always pushes me to do better, both in school and softball. He is always there to help. He does everything he can; he's an ideal father. I remember one of our best times together was when we were staying at a hotel on the beach when our softball tournament was temporarily rained out. Dad used that opportunity to take us to the aquarium, where we were together having fun. That was special to rne.? Post Offense Rehabilitation Since his involvement in the offense, Mr. Amidei has enrolled in the College of Central Florida, Ocala, Florida, in pursuit of a college education. His most recent period of registration is January 2016.10 The College of Central Florida has an agreement with the Southern Illinois University (SIU), Carbondale, Illinois, and Mr. Amidei receives credit in pursuit of a Bachelor of Science degree in electronic systems technologies from SIU. Mr. Amidei was originally accepted to SIUin 2008, but suspended his participation to begin his career in law enforcementY Mr. Amidei has eight courses remaining before receiving his degree. Although education and vocational skills are not ordinarily relevant in determining whether a departure is warranted, education and vocational skills may be relevant in determining the conditions of probation or supervised release for rehabilitative purposes. USSG§SH1.2. Education and Vocational Skills (Policy Statement). 8 Appendix 9 Amidei, 10 Exhibit C. Aubrey. Personal interview. 5 April 2016. Appendix Exhibit D. 11 Appendix Exhibit E. 7 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 11 of 65 PageID 136 Community Support In the aftermath of his conviction in this case, Mr. Amidei continues to enjoy tremendous support from wide and varied sectors of the community. Several persons in the general community who are knowledgeable of Amidei's character have written letters of support on his behalf. They are appended to this report for the court's further conslderation.P The collective theme of their sentiments is that James Amidei is caring, honorable, and of excellent moral character. They have used terms such as "great person, unselfish, and compassionate." None of the letter writers indicate that they have seen anything in Mr. Amidei's background that presents an ongoing threat to any part of the community. There are several others who have submitted to interviews in support of Mr. Amidei. Richie Colon, who identified himself as a Hispanic man, age 46, is a former Department of Corrections employee who has known Mr. Amidei for approximately eight years. He is a resident of Ocala, Florida. Mr. Colon indicated that he has a daughter, Alessandra Colon, who is the same age as Mr. Amidei's daughter, and that he has helped Mr. Amidei coach the girls' traveling softball team for the past seven years. The daughters began by playing I-ball together. Mr. Colon rendered the following statement of Mr. Amidei's character: Jim is a great person. He is a man of quiet demeanor and doesn't use curse words. He is the kind of guy who always says 'let's find a way to make things better.' Jim is a protector of his daughter, and doesn't have a malicious bone in his body. He is a very level-headed person. I've worked in the prison system, and J know the type of people who belong there; to put Jim in prison would be a terrible disservice to him, and to society. He's is just not that type of person. Jim is dedicated to helping young people, and the two of usjust completed a fund-raiser for the Central Florida Blast. We raised $1,254 for the team. It's a fast-pitch traveling softball team whose mission is to encourage girls 14 and younger, to study hard, work hard, and play hard, thereby learning moral values along the 12 Appendix Exhibit F. 8 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 12 of 65 PageID 137 I have complete and utter trust in Jim. My daughter can spend the night at his house any tlme." way. Jim is a coach/administrator for the team.l] Donald Buie, age 43, is also a resident of Ocala, Florida, and has been employed in law enforcement for 19 years. Mr. Buie has experience on the United States Marshal's Task Force. He has known Mr. Amidei since Mr. Amidei began his career in law enforcement. Mr. Buie stated: Jim is a really good guy who got caught up in a situation that temporarily challenged his judgment. I certainly don't condone the action of any of the officers - it was wrong. I think it was largely due to the fact that he was in a new unit, and was trying to fit in. Sometimes the psychology of those small special units can be difficult to deal with. But he was always good to be around, and appears to be a solid family man. I know that at the time of the incident, Jim had just had a second child. He is a well-rounded person who got along well with all ethnic and racial groups. I never saw him exhibit any malice toward anyone. I feel badly for him.1s Finally, Maverick Hampton, age 57, spoke on behalf of Mr. Amidei. Mr. Hampton is a notary public in Ocala,Florida. Mr. Hampton indicated that Mr. Amidei and his son went to school together. He offered the follow statement on behalf of Mr. Amidei: Jim is a good and trustworthy person. I have known him since he was 15 years old. Unfortunately, he was put in a situation where he perceived that he was making the better of two bad choices in dealing with more seasoned officers. If anything, the video shows that he wouldn't do anything wrong. I have a daughter (Chyanana Hampton) who was murdered by a real criminal in 2010. I recommended Jim to seek a career in law enforcement because he had the temperament for it. He has no history of violence of any kind, and is an emotionally stable person. I still regard him as a son, and he still looks at me as a father figure .16 13 AppendixExhibitG. 14 Colon,Richie.Personalinterview. 16 March 2016. 15 Buie,Donald.Personalinterview.16 March 2016. 16 Hampton,Maverick.Personalinterview.15 March2016. 9 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 13 of 65 PageID 138 Consequently, as indicated by those who truly know Mr. Amidei, he has been a good citizen, and member of the community in the Central Florida area. Factors Militating According to USSG §5H1.11, Military, Contributions: determining in Favor of Downward Civic, Charitable, or Public Service; Employment~Related Record of Prior Good Works (Policy Statement), whether a departure other offender characteristics, is warranted, Departure military service may be relevant if the military service, individually or in combination with is present to an unusual degree, and distinguishes the case from the typical cases covered by the guidelines. In this case, with exception of a period of about two years, when he worked as an escort driver, Mr. Amidei's entire history of employment has been divided between honorable service of five years in the United States Navy, and his four years as a Jaw enforcement Accordingly, at age 32, Mr. Amidei has never been unemployed. The Navy Achievement his officer."? During his service in the Navy, Mr. Amidei was deployed for a time in South America in the service of the country. awards and recognition: in Mr. Amidei received the following Medal; the Good Conduct Award Medal; the National Defense Service Medal; the Coast Guard Special OPs Service Ribbon; the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal; the Navy Pistol Marksmanship Ribbon; and the Navy Rifle Marksmanship Ribbon (Sharpshooter]." Hesuffered a service-related injury, and received disability severance release pay. According to USSG§5K2.0(a)(41.[a]n offender characteristic or other circumstance identified in Chapter Five, Part H (Offender Characteristics), or elsewhere in the guidelines, as not ordinarily relevant in determining whether a departure is warranted, may be relevant to this determination, only if such U.S. v. Big Crow. 898 F.2d 1326, 1331-32 (8th Cir. 1990) (departure warranted for excellent employment record). Although a record of employment is not ordinarily relevant in determining whether a departure is warranted, it is not a prohibited factor, and may be used in combination with other offender characteristics, such as military service. USSG§SH1.Sand §SK2.0(c),in a determination of whether a downward departure is warranted. 17 18 Appendix Exhibit H. DD Form 214. 10 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 14 of 65 PageID 139 offender characteristic or other circumstance is present to an exceptional degree. There is a combination of two or more offender characterlstlcs, cases contemplated or other circumstances, that distinguish this case from the typical by the Sentencing Commission, that strongly suggests a downward departure from the advisory guideline sentencing range. USSG§SK2.0(c). First, according to the ruling in the Koon decision, the Supreme Court has affirmed downward departures for susceptibility to abuse in prison." Mr. Amidei spent four years as a deputy sheriff's officer serving in various capacities in law enforcement. The existence of a video-clip of the instant offense has led to widespread publicity contributing to the potential for moral outrage. As of the date of sentencing, there are more than 28/000 views of the YouTube video-clip of the victim's beating, complete with comments from viewers such as the following direct quotes." • "These animals [police officers] need to be put down like the rabid dogs they are." • "KNOWwhere your local cops live, so when things like this happen we can visit them in the night." • "Dumb asses all those street cameras around this day and time. They got what deserve ..... now lets see how he feels when those inmates get hold to that azz!!! W • "J would personally shoot each one of them myself for better justice. cops love the thoughts they put in their own heads that they are above the law. And they wonder why the filthy bastards aren't liked, orwhy people have no problem shooting them. Filthy plgsl!ll" Consequently, as these comments demonstrate, they the impact of media and the publically expressed sentiments strongly suggest that the possibility for retributive behavior against Mr. Amidei is genuine. Second, on April 5,2016, a Google search alone yielded 63,000 results for the search topic, "Ocala Police Officers Video Tape CivilRights Violations:121 The ubiquitous effect of the media further enhances Koon v. U.S.,518 U.S.81 (1996) (no abuse of discretion to grant downward departure to police officers convicted of civil rights violation because of vulnerability in prison). 19 20 From the World Wide Web, https:jjwww.youtube.comjwatch?v=q-aM2ct8Eeg. 21 Appendix Exhibit I. The story has also reached national attention in the print media in an article entitled, The 11 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 15 of 65 PageID 140 the widespread publicity contributing to the potential for moral outrage. Mr. Amidei's past deployment as a patrol officer with the Marion County Sheriff's Office, where he was responsible for the arrest and prosecution of serious felony offenders, as well as his participation in the fugitive apprehension unit, make him a vulnerable to abuse in prison, and a downward departure and prospective candidate under USSG§5K2.0 may be warranted for susceptibility in this case. Statistical Information The Sentencing Commission ("Commission") maintains statistics on a combination of variables impacting the actual sentences imposed within the nation, the circuit, and the district, that largely define the comparative configurations of those sentences. A synopsis of the data is instructive in determining what constitutes a conventional range for the "heartland" of sentences imposed for particular offenses. The Commission's statistics on below range sentences, and the degree in decrease from the advisory guidelines range for each primary offense characteristic category, is particularly relevant. For fiscal years 2012-2014, nationally, in cases involving civil rights violations, courts imposed non-governmental sponsored below range sentences at a rate of 34.9 percent. In those cases,the average decrease below the advisory guideline range was 64 percent, while the median decrease was 66.7 percent. For cases in the 11th Circuit, the rate of below range sentences was 36.4 percent. Of those cases,the mean decrease was just over 61 percent, against a median reduction of 66.7 percent. Comparable figures for the Middle District of Florida were unavailable. 22 As to actual sentences imposed for casesinvolving civil rights violations, of the 15 casessentenced nationally in FY2015,the median sentence for below range sentences based on Booker/18 U.S.c. § 3553 Conspiracy to Brutalize D. P., The Atlantic Magazine, February 1,2016. 22 Appendix Exhibit J. United States Sentencing Commission Statistics: FY2010-2012. 12 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 16 of 65 PageID 141 reasons was three months imprlsonment.P This figure represents a median decrease in months from the advisory guidellne minimum of 12 months. The median percent decrease from the guideline minimum in terms of months was almost 83 percent. Consequently, if that percentage decrease was applied to the applicable guideline minimum in Mr. Amidei's case, a comparable sentence would be about five months. Although such a sentence may not represent the idealized result applicable to IDl civil rights violation cases, it demonstrates that judges have found that the imposition of a remarkable percentage of departures and/or variances, without the influence of government sponsored reasons, can be justifiably reconciled to the overall statutory purposes of sentencing. Mr. Amidei's Status as "True" First-Time Offender The Sentencing Reform Act of 1984 requires that the Guidelines reflect the appropriateness of imposing a sentence other than imprisonment for the first-time offender who has not been convicted of a crime of violence or otherwise serious offense.24 The Sentencing Commission has determined that those who, like Mr. Amidei, are not only first offenders under the Guidelines, but who also have no prior arrests, are the least likely to commit further offenses. 2S They have the lowest recidivism rate at 6.8 percent, and are described in the Commission's report as "easily the most empirically identifiable group of guideline federal offenders who are the least likely to re-offend."26 Consequently, any consideration that the court 23 Appendix Exhibit K.ld. Commission Statistics. 24Alternative Sentencing in the Federal Criminal Justice System, from World Wide Web, http;fjwww.ussc.gov/research_and_statistics/research_p rojects/a Iternatives/2009020206 _aIternatives.pdf, P.4, Jan. 2009. 25United States Sentencing Commission, Recidivism and the "First Offender" (May 2004), at 17. Available at www.ussc.gov/publicat!Recidivism_FirstOffender.pdf. The Committee notes that there are two other groups that, under the Guidelines, are technically first offenders: those who have arrests and no convictions, and those who have convictions which, for one reason or another, are not counted. Both have higher recidivism rates than those who have never been arrested. 261d. at 16-17. 13 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 17 of 65 PageID 142 may have regarding most of the factors listed at 18 U.S.C. § 3553{a)(2}, such as the need to afford adequate deterrence, is very likely sated by the fact of Mr. Amidei's status asa true first-time offender. Factors Militating in Favor of a Variance from the Advisory Guidelines System There are three principle reasons that a sentence outside of the advisory guideline range may be warranted in this case. First, the sentencing guidelines encourage a downward departure for aberrant behavior if the case meets the criteria set forth in USSG§5K2.20. Aberrant Behavior (Policy Statement). Mr. Amidei's conduct does not rise to the level of departure consideration under this guideline because of a single defect - that his conduct was not limited to "a single criminal occurrence or single criminal transaction" as required under the guideline." This was evidenced by the fact that Mr. Amidei initially falsified his arrest report, and subsequently gave false statements to the FDLE. If not for Mr. Amidei repeating this behavior, he would arguably otherwise qualify for departure consideration based on aberrant behavior. Of particular importance in this connection is the fact that the predominant element contained in the offense of conviction, concerns itself mostly with Mr. Amidei's failure to intervene in the use of unreasonable force by "Marion County Sheriff's Deputies."28 None of the elements of the offense of conviction addressesMr. Amidei's making false statements about the event. Consequently, his connection to the assault of the victim comes by way of the provisions of relevant conduct; ~ "all acts and omissions committed, aided, abetted, counseled, commanded, induced, procured, or willfully caused by the The other requirements for the application of aberrant behavior that Mr. Amidei would meet are if the crime: (l) was committed without significant planning; (2) was of limited duration; and (3) represents a marked deviation by the defendant from an otherwise law-abiding life. USSG§5K2.20(b). 27 28 According to the plea agreement, the third element of the count of conviction indicates that the defendant deprived D.P.of a constitutional right to be "( ...J free from unreasonable force. In this case, the Information charges that the defendant violated D.P:s right to be free from an unreasonable seizure because (1) Marion County Sheriffs Deputies used unreasonable force against D.P.; (2) the defendant knew force used by Marion County Sheriffs Deputies against D.P.was unreasonable; and (3) the defendant failed to intervene despite the opportunity to do so. 14 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 18 of 65 PageID 143 defendant, that occurred during the commission of the offense of conviction, in preparation offense, or in the course of attempting to avoid detection or responsibility for that for that offense.'?" Accordingly, it may be argued that Mr. Amidei's case "almost" rises to the level of aberrant behavior because he fails to meet the criteria because he is being held accountable for the behavior of others whose Since the advisory guideline imprisonment range does not take this factor under the guidelines would produce a sentence that is greater than necessary conduct he may have abetted. into account, a sentence according to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. § 3553. Second, concerning the need for the sentence to reflect the seriousness of the offense, to promote respect for the law, and to provide just punishment for the offense, a sentence of incarceration would possibly provide a perverse incentive for drug dealers to disrespect and break drug trafficking laws, knowing that law enforcement efforts would likely be overly deterred from pursuing or detaining those offenders. Given the defendant's in the offense, and his continued extreme remorse, his status as arguably the least culpable participants cooperation with the government, a sentence under the advisory guideline system would produce a sentence that is greater than necessary according to the provisions of 18 U.S.C. § 3553. Third, the history and characteristics of Mr. Amidei, as evidenced by a reiteration of the facts and circumstances in support of a downward departure, guidelines system. militate in favor of a sentence outside of the advisory Mr. Amidei is the father of two minor daughters, whom he has always faithfully supported, and whose lives he has been inextricably involved. The importance of these circumstances are reinforced by Mr. Amidei's status as a true first-time offender, following a good career in law enforcement, and honorable service in the military. Mr. Amidei is virtually assured of not reoffending. The circumstances of the offense would preclude such a possibility. Therefore, it is anticipated that a sentence 29 USSG§lBl.3{a)(1)(A). Relevant Conduct (Factors that Determine the Guideline Range). 15 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 19 of 65 PageID 144 in the alternative to imprisonment is sufficient to satisfy all of the purposes of 18 U.S.C. 3553(a)(2)(A}(1)- (7). Alternatives to Incarceration Although the advisory guidelines recommend against sentencing alternatives to imprisonment because the advisory guideline range falls within Zone D of the sentencing table, a term of probation is not precluded by statute. Likewise, the use of a sentence with home detention as an intermediate sanction is not precluded by statute. Basedon a review of the nature and circumstances of the offense, as well as the history and characteristics of Mr. Amidei, his status as a true first-time offender merits strong consideration in this case. Should the court conclude that either a downward departure, or a variance from the advisory guidelines system, or both, is warranted, alternatives to imprisonment may range from a sentence of "straight" probation, with appropriate special conditions, to probation with appropriate term of home detention, to a sentence of time-served, to be followed by an appropriate period of time on supervised release.3D It is anticipated that Mr. Amidei's status asa first-time offender, his failure to participate in the violence associated with the offense, and exceptional work history would suggestthat any of these viable alternatives to imprisonment - especially a sentence of probation -- are warranted in this case. Stakeholders Attitudes toward Sentencing Mitigation A number of stakeholders in the federal criminal justice system are amenable to the consideration of a wider spectrum of factors that courts should consider at sentencing. In the Sentencing Commission's The Comprehensive Crime Control Act of 1984 makes probation a sentence in and of itself. 18 U.S.C.§ 3561. Probation may be used as an alternative to incarceration, provided that the terms and conditions of probation can be fashioned so as to meet fully the statutory purposes of sentencing, including promoting respect for law, providing just punishment for the offense, achieving general deterrence, and protecting the public from further crimes by the defendant. USSGCh.S, Pt. 8, intro. comment. 3D 16 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 20 of 65 PageID 145 2010 survey on the attitudes of United States District Judges, the jurists responded to questions pertinent to the factors in mitigation in this case. 31 First, the commission found that with respect to the issue of family ties and responsibilities, 62 percent of the judges affirmed that this factor is ordinarily relevant to departure and/or variance consideration. Only two percent of the jurists opined that this consideration was never relevant to sentencing. As reflected earlier in this report, Mr. Amidei has a wife and two minor daughters, and has always diligently supported them. Second, regarding the presence in the case of post-offense rehabilitative efforts, 70 percent of judges opined that this factor is ordinarily relevant to below guideline range sentences against only one percent who felt that such efforts were never relevant. In the aftermath of the offense, Mr. Amidei has been constructively engaging in efforts at self-improvement, asevidenced by his resumption of hiscollege education. Third, with respect to a defendant's employment record. 65 percent of the judges found that this factor is ordinarily relevant, while only two percent opined otherwise. Prior to his involvement in the offense, Mr. Amidei was in good standing during a four-year career as a law enforcement officer. His law enforcement career was preceded by honorable service in the military. Fourth, asto the aspect of aberrant behavior. 74 percent of the jurists found that this feature of a defendant's behavior is ordinarily relevant to sentences below the advisory guideline range. Only one percent of judges felt that this factor is never relevant. Prior to the instant offense, Mr. Amidei lived an otherwise law-abiding life, making positive contributions to the community. Last, as to the undue influence related to affection, relationship, or fear of other offenders, 68 percent of judges believe that such pressures should be relevant at sentencing, as opposed to three 31 Appendix Exhibit L. Judge's Survey, Question 13, from the World Wide Web: http://www.ussc.gov/research. 17 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 21 of 65 PageID 146 percent who would disallow such considerations from departure of variance consideration. During the commission of the offense, Mr. Amidei had only been on the job for three years, and was among the least experienced officers responding to the scene of the event. Mr. Amidei was uncomfortable the true nature of the circumstances his aspirations for career promotion Consequently, the consideration of characteristics of the victim's beating, largely due to a sense of peer pressure, and to the level of the main perpetrators a consistently communicating of the assault. substantial percentage of judicial officers expressed agreement with present in Mr. Amidei's case for purposes of departures and variances. In a past speech, former Attorney General Eric Holder echoed the sentiments of the judges. The following is excerpted from his speech: The Department Congressional of Justice leaders, is determined judges, to law enforcement continue officials, working alongside and independent groups - like the American Bar Association - to study the unintended collateral consequences of certain convictions; to address unwarranted sentencing disparities; and - where appropriate - to explore ways to give judges more flexibility in determining certain sentences. Too many people go to too many prisons for far too long for no good law enforcement Finally, The Sentencing challenges the futility Project, a research and advocacy reform group and inappropriateness goals of societal well-being reason." of indiscriminate incarceration in Washington, D.C., to achieve the legitimate by positing the following view: The United States is the world's leader in incarceration with 2.2 million people currently in the nation's prisons or jails -- a 500 percent increase over the past thirty years. These trends have resulted in prison overcrowding and state governments being overwhelmed by the burden of funding a rapidly expanding penal system, despite increasing evidence that large-scale incarceration most effective means of achieving public is not the safetv." Attorney General Eric Holder's Speech at the 15th Annual National Action Network Convention, 14 April 2013, from World Wide Web: http://www.justice.gov. 32 33 The Sentencing Project: Incarceration, from World Wide Web: http://www.sentencing 18 project.erg. Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 22 of 65 PageID 147 Accordingly, a wide range of responsible should apply the rule of parsimony participants agree that whenever and exercise a bias toward practicable, courts imposing the least onerous sentence possible under the law. Conclusion In consideration of the forgoing discussion and analysis, there is ample evidence in mitigation to allow the Court to fashion a sentence either in departure, or at variance. or both. from the advisory guidelines system. This position is particularly supported by the fact that a term of probation, and the fact that a felony conviction would preclude the defendant from resuming his duties in law enforcement, is sufficient to satisfy each of the statutory purposes of sentencing. Mr. Amidei thanks the Court for its time and consideration in reviewing this report. Mr. Amidei respectfully requests that the Court utilize this information to impose a sentence that is "sufficient but not greater than necessary" under the circumstances of this case. 19 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 23 of 65 PageID 148 The forgoing comprehensive sentencing mitigation report has been prepared on behalf of the Defendant at the request of defense counsel, and is submitted in support of sentencing on April 20, 2016, before the Honorable Wm. Terrell Hodges, Senior United States District Judge in the United States District Court, Ocala Division. Respectfully submitted, lsi Carlos R. Dawson Carlos R. Dawson Sentencing Mitigation Consultant The Cord Strategies Group, LLC 5252 Clapboard Creek Drive Jacksonville, FL32226 (904) 910-5059 (904) 696-1111 fax e-mail: crd@cordstrategiesgroup.com 20 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 24 of 65 PageID 149 EXHIBIT F Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 25 of 65 PageID 150 October 08, 2015 Dear Honorable William Terrell Hodges, Please allow this letter to act as my testimony to the many fine qualities of Jim Amidei, whom I have known for several years. Our friendship began in the Law Enforcement community but quickly grew beyond the scope of our employment. Jim has proven himself to be a trustworthy and honorable person who takes pride in his work and his friends. I have had the chance to get to know Jim, and! say with no hesitation that that he is one of the finest people I have ever had the opportunity to work beside. Jim is a selfless individual who has been tarnished by the actions of a few that I would not extend this same letter to. I have been in similar situations, as the one being investigated, with Jim and the outcome was completely different. Though the use of force was never questioned the opportunity was present, however it was Jim who kept a level head and defused the situation that ultimately resulted in the capture of a fleeing felon. Sir, in the law enforcement community there is a brotherhood. My friend Jim will stand before your court and take his punishment on the chin because, as I said, he is honorable. account that many see Jim as a victim. However, please take into If ever there was a definition of being in the wrong place at the wrong time with the wrong people then this would be it. Jim was let down by the people who we are taught to trust only by their uniform not their character. Jim was placed between a rock and a hard place and may have made a bad choice, however one decision should not define a man. Sir I have no doubt about Jim and his ability to continue to be a positive member of our community. just pray that, with your mercy, he will be given an opportunity good friend, father and husband. Thank you, ~~~.~~\. Joseph Richmond Tussey Jr. to remain in our community to be a Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 26 of 65 PageID 151 October 17, 2015 To The Honorable William Terrell Hodges, I am writing this letter because James Amide; has asked me to provide a character reference on his behalf. ! met James through my husband because they served in the US Navy together. James has been a friend of my husband for the last 14 years and! personally met him when they were both stationed in Jacksonville 10 years ago. Because I have known him for 10 years, I feel qualified to speak about his character. When we very first met I was introduced to James through his generosity. At the time we met, my husband had just come to Jacksonville as his first duty station. James was already here with his wife and daughter. James often opened his home to my husband so that he had a friend to be with in a new place. He even gave him his car on a regular basis so that he had something to drive when needed. This was just the first time I was able to see how generous James c could be and has continued to be for 10 years now. James Is also someone that my husband and I trust that I can count on for support when he Is deployed. Being that my husband is still active duty in the Navy, he is often away for long periods of time. That leaves me in Jacksonville without my family or husband. James is someone that I have often called when I needed support or help while my husband Wasaway. He was taking some college courses in Jacksonville and would sometimes just stop by to check in on me and make sure r was safe and didn't need anything while he was available. James is also a loyal friend. In the military you are often separated from your friends. It is very ea~ to lose touch, yet he has stood by us through many duty stations. He has done his best to come to each place we are stationed to visit. James has also shown over and over again that he is a responsible and loving father.! have been around James with his oldest daughter often and even though he Is divorced from his first Wife,he has still been very involved with her life. I felt honored to be asked to provide this character reference. I hope that the information I provided gives more insight to what an exceptional individual James Ameidi really is. If' can be of further assistance, please call me at 904-923-4781 or contact me by email atbbarbatelli@gmail.com. Sincerely, ~1&JdtA Brittany Barbatelli Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 27 of 65 PageID 152 The Honorable William Terrell Hodges, My name is Michael Floyd Bullard. J am a former member of the United States Marine Corp, and am currently a Firefighter/ Paramedic with the City of Ocala. This letter is a personal testament to the upstanding character to which James Amidei has continually shown over the course of the time thai I have known him. I first met James in 1998 during my freshman year of high school. All those who are close to James refer to him as Jim as I will do hence forward. Even at a young age Jim has always been a good person. Jim was a leader on our football team setting a positive example and influence for all his peers around him including myself. After high school Jim went off as a member of the United States Navy once again showing his commitment and caring for others. Upon return from his time in the Navy from which he had received an honorable medical discharge Jim returned horne to Ocala. Since his time home Jim has become an extended member of my family that was even a part of my wedding as I was in his. My wife, my children, and I hold Jim and his immediate family in high regard. Jim has on countless occasions demonstrated unselfish acts putting others needs and/or wishes before his own. Jim has helped me numerous times when I was in need whether it was something that was easy as borrowing a simple 1001 to watching my children at the last minute in the case of an emergency. Never once in the entire time of knowing him for the past seventeen years has Jim ever let me down or shown any type of negative character. Jim is the epitome of a great friend, a great husband, and a fantastic father. Jim is one of the few people in this entire world that I feel comfortable caring for my children in any situation. Jim is kind, caring, honorable, committed, driven, and compassionate to all those around him. In closing, I would say that James Louis Amidei is not only one of the best men I knov....he is one of my personal best friends someone whom I would entrust my life. A friend that is more than a friend he is my brother. J hope that is some way this testament has opened your eyes into the type of person that Jim is. If your Honor or anyone else has any questions regarding James Louis Amidei feel free to contact me at any time at (352)203-9339. Thank you for your time. Sincerely Michael Bullard Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 28 of 65 PageID 153 The Honorable William Terrell Hodges, I write you today to give you a positive character reference for James Amidei. I have known James for about 20 years we attended the same high school and middle school. We have maintained contact as our professional careers developed. What I can tell you about him is he is a great person and adds value to society in a positive way. I have played team sports with him where he demonstrated ethical behavior, excellent attitude, and hard work. I have also vacationed with James and again he again showed the behavior of someone you would want as a friend. I do understand James has had some transgression of the late. I would like you to consider this not being reflective of James or any behavior that I have experienced with James. I do know that punishment received so far is more then enough for a lesson learned. I know when his case is closed he will be someone we are proud of and continue to contribute to society in a positive way. Should you need more information please contact me. Thank you sir. Jagdesh Rupnarain VP of Purchasing AWH 352-216-3755 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 29 of 65 PageID 154 Jennifer Amidei 29 Fir Road Ocala, FL - 34472 Phone No: 352-427-0696 October 9, 2015 Re: Character reference for James Amidei The Honorable Judge William Terrell Hodges This letter is being written by the undersigned on behalf of James Amidei who is being sentenced for his defamation of rights under the color of law charge. I Jennifer Amidei, have known James for over ten years now, I which we have been married for over two years. Jamesis, in short, is a great person. He hasalways been kind and generouswith others. Hehas a strong sense of duty, which applied to his job when he servedin the USNavy,asa law Enforcement Officer, to his family, and community. He also possessesa great deal of integrity, and constantly strives to make sure he is doing the right thing. I understand the situation in which he hasplead guilty. I do believeJameswas faced with a strong challengethat day serving as law Enforcement Officer however I do not believehis actions were due to bad influence or representative of his character and how he lives his life day to day. Actions of other leaders lead him down the wrong path thus causingwrong action on his part. Sincethe incident James has re-enrolled in college to begin a new career. Heunderstands how important it is to maintain moving forward with his life and providing for his family. He understands what he ultimately did wrong that day and in turn it reshaped his entire career path. Becauseprobation is a possibility in this caseI believe that would be best served. I do not think society would benefit from sending Jamesto prison. A prison sentence would be detrimental to all concerned. Jamesis key member in our family, not only providing strong support to me but his two daughters, Addalyn (8 months) and Aubrey (13 yrs.). Jamesis very actively involved in both of their lives. He regularly helps out as a volunteer softball coach when possibleaswell. It must be difficult for you to make decisionslike this when you don't actually know the person standing in front of you, so I hope you will look at my letter and the others you're receiving,and understand that Jamesis the kind of person around whom people rally. That hasto saysomething, so please let that be a factor in your decision. RespectfullyYours, Jennifer Amidei Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 30 of 65 PageID 155 To: The Honorable William Terrell Hodges, Sir, I am writing this letter in reference to my long time friend Jim Amidei. I know that your time is very valuable so i will keep this short and to the point. I have known Jim for over 15 years. We met at lake Weir High School in 11th grade and have been close friends ever since. I have always known Jim to be a caring, honest and upstanding man. He is and has always been like family to me. He is the kind of guy that would give you the shirt off of his back jf you needed it. His service to all of us in this great country and then later, our county gives you a small idea of the selflessness and courage that is in his heart. He is truly one of the best people that I've ever known, and I am honored to have him as a friend. I really cant express in a letter how great of a person that Jim really is. I am pleading to you to please take this into consideration so that one mistake, although a very serious one, wont ruin the life of a great man, father, husband and friend. Thank you. Yours Truly, Matthew F. Formant-Maio 25 Pecan PassTrl. Ocala, FL34472 352-502-6568 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 31 of 65 PageID 156 October 10, 2015 Re: James Amidei - Character Reference Letter To: The Honorable Judge William Terrell Hodges My name is Jayme Head. Iam James Arnidei's mother. I have previously been a Senior Project Accountant and Notary Public, State of Florida. Due to the devastation to my family, 1 am now a part-time book keeper so that] am available for my family, especially my grandchildren as needed. OUTfamily is very close and we are always in communication either by phone or at each others homes. James Amidei was a born leader. He learned everything fast, when he started kindergarten he became bored as he knew everything being taught, his teacher made him, her "assistant" which helped him to gain interest and helped the other children. He always did great in school and had excellent grades. James always looked out for his little brother and was very protective of him. He is a very responsible man. In high school he became captain of his football team, worked part time jobs and kept his grades at the top. He graduated and within that following summer, got married and went off into the Navy. 4 years later he left the Navy with an honorable discharge. He went back to work and school and still always had time for his daughter. He excelled again and became a deputy with the Marion County Sheriff's department and with in a couple of years was I of 5 deputies selected out of over 100 deputies for the Fugitive Apprehension Unit. He loved his job and wanted to advance to K-9 unit. He volunteered and took as many details as he could. He had a baby on the way. As a father, James has been the upmost respectable man. He has always changed diapers; he was there when the baby's were born. The children always have the medical and essentials needed regardless of cast. His oldest daughter has braces and glasses. She is a pitcher for a traveling softball learn. which James assists as a coach when he can. He makes sure she is at all of her tournaments and practice's and has her in pitching lessons. Her grades are excellent and she is in advanced classes. He is a great family man; he spends as much time with his family as he can. At anytime there is a family emergency, James is always there and making sure everyone knows. He is always getting the family together for holidays and such. He has never missed my Birthday or Mothers Day, even while in the Navy, ] would at least gel a card. James had pleaded guilty to Deprivation of rights under the color of law. He volunteered to help the other units to capture a drug dealer. According to the news/media my son didn't stop the other officer's in what they did. Our whole life's we have been taught to respect and obey authority, such as his senior officers he worked with that day. What would anyone do in a situation as such? We are not supposed to tell our superiors what to do or how to do their jobs. After working his whole life towards his dream, it has now been shattered and he has to start all over. I know, he knows what he did was wrong. He regrets that day and jfhe could do it over he would. It seems as if a part of him is missing now. He is back in school and working full time. James is a very trustworthy, respectable person, with high values, integrity and morals. His credentials from the Navy and Sheriffs department are impeccable. If you have any questions or need anything further, please feel free to call me at: 352-497-3413. Sincerely, J~H~ Jayme Head 3612 SE 33,d Avenue Ocala, FL 34471 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 32 of 65 PageID 157 Bruce Head 3612 SE33'0 Avenue Ocala, FL - 34471 Phone No: 407-947-1031 October 9,2015 Re: Character reference for James Amidei The Honorable Judge William Terrell Hodges 1 am writing this letter on behalf of James Amidei who will appear before you in the near future for sentencing. I have known Jim for 17 years and became his step father 12 }S years ago. Even as a teenager Jim had a set of values that were based on doing the right thing. He enllsted in the US Navy to serve his country and as a first step to achieving his dream of becoming a law enforcement officer. After his honorable discharge from the navy he worked hard to receive his accreditation to become a police officer and eventually became a Marion County Deputy Sherriff. His sense of duty, honor and integrity was the driving force of this chosen path. I do not know all of the facts of the case or the basis of law of the charge he has plead guilty to. I know that probation is a possible sentence and would suggest this would be a true service of justice in this case. Jim was a junior deputy on this detail that he volunteered for and I feel that the seniority of the other officers led him to make the decisions that he made. These decisions were not representative of the man he is or the morals and values he carries within. Jim has re-enrolled in college to pursue a new career to provide for his wife and two daughters, the youngest being 8 months old. He is a good and active father in both of their lives, a good son and a good member of our community. He has lost his because of this bad decision and I feel a prison sentence would be devastating for his family, myself included, and a great loss to the community. As the judge in this case, you, and you alone have the authority and the power to withhold an adjudication of guilt to keep him from becoming a convicted felon. In to day's SOciety, that stigma creates many obstacles for gaining employment and so many other aspects of everyday life. I ask you to consider this in your decision. He has lost his career dream because of a bad decision that was influenced by others. 1 implore you not to destroy the rest of his life for it. Respectfully Bruce Head Director of Estimating Forum Construction Group, Inc. Sanford, FL Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 33 of 65 PageID 158 EXHIBIT G Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 34 of 65 PageID 159 I GamcChangcr Team Profile Page 1 of 1 Central Florida Blast Blast 14U 3-4-1 Blast Team Profile Blut A4mIIoI.); I. an UnofficIal Sc:onngTum ==="" 1IpDIt: ~ .......... '_,'17 ",. Or""", P ... ~C_.l~ W71 cat: .11 T__ __ '«./ 1.IS5S4 Dfg.. _: Fr.nelM ... : ;::.emall'londo Il1001 n.m : FKl!6ook Fu : fe.m .. nat oonf)gtnd'fur T""",' t ••",11 NIl C6f"1fLgLtf1!d'01 F aUbOOk GAMECHAHGER COMPANY CONNECT ::'rea1~Yout T ellm Abou!UIi C ulitDmer Supptrl Crnle an Accou." Care~ GC Slog HowGC WoI'I<I Gell' GC Tecl1 Slog Fcn Poc"'g r.cllde Ir NrC Download 1"e App Pr.... cy I T""". ICI'.ian>tO>II._ 101";" In< .... ~ 'J S PJ;..,.. ',jo e 731 r_"'~ ~ https:/!gc.comltlspring~2016/central~florida~blast-blast~14u-56bflad a9153933a4000001/p... 4/10/2016 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 35 of 65 PageID 160 EXHIBIT H Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 36 of 65 PageID 161 CAUTlON: NOT TO BE USED FOR IDENTfRCATION PURPOSES THIS IS AN IMPORTANT RECORD. SAFEGUARD IT ANY AlTERATIONS IN SHADED AREAS RENDER FORM VOID CERTIACATE OF RELEASE OR DISCHARGE FROM ACTIVE DUTY 1. NAME (lMt, Rm, Middle) AMIDEI, JAMES LOUIS lb. PAYG~E 4a. GRADE,RATEOR RANK FC3 f NAVY-USN 2. DEPARTMENT,COMPONENTAND BRANCH 5. DATEOF BIRTH(YYYYMMDD) 19830610 3. SOCIAL SECURI1'YNUMBER I 36 590 I 0342 16. RESERVEOBLIGATION TERMINATION DATE NA (YYYYMMOO) 7a. PLACEOF ENTRYINTO ACTIVE DUTY b. HOME OF RECORDAT TIME OF ENTRY (City and state, or complete address if known) JACKSONVll..LE, FL 528 SPRINGS LAKE ROAD OCALA. FL 34472 Sa. lAST DUTY ASSIGNMENT AND MAJOR COMMAND b. STATION WHERESEPARATED NAS JAX AIMD JACKSONVILLE. H.. TPU PERSUPPDBT JACKSONVn..LE, FL 9. COMMAND TO WHICH'TRANSFERRED NAVAL RESERVE PERSONNEL CENTER, NEW ORLEANS, LA 70149 11. PRIMARYSPEClALlY specialty. un .dditionel fUst numbe" title and )'Ani .nd trIOntll. in specielty numbfJltIlInd titI.. lnvoMng periOfb of 12. RECORDOF SERVICE one or mOtif vesrs.) FC-1121-AUTOMATICGUNFIIRECONrROLSYSTEMS TECHNICIAN. 03YRS OlMOS xx XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX)lAAAA~AXA XAAA~, xx x XXXX XAX AA XX~XXXXXXXXXXAXAXAX .. Dot.~ ENTERED NJTHIS PERlDD b. SEPARAnON DATEnas PERIOD Co NET ACnVE &EIMCE lHIS PERIOD II.TOTAL PRIORACTIVE SEIMCE .. TOTAL PRJOR INACT'IVESSMCE f. FOREIGN SERVICE g.SEASSMCE II.EFFfCllVE DATE OF PAY GRADE 10. SGU COVERAW:Joo:driONE AMOUNT: $400. . YEAR(S) MONTHIs) DAVIS) 01 23 JUL 06 04 00 00 00 01 MAR 07 14 22 00 00 00 00 00 04 16 00 08 JAN 03 13. DECORATIONS,MEDALS, BADGES.C1TA110NSAND CAMPAIGN 14. MJUTARYEDUCA110N (CGurse ririe, nulQberof_b..1Id ,.., comp/sted} RIBBONSAWARDED ORAUTHORIZED {All periods of service) monthalld NAVY ACHIEVEMENT MEDAL, GOOD CONDUCT MEDAL FC "A" SCHOOLA-lOO-014J, l1WKS. 02MAY; CIWS MKIS AWARD MEDAL FPE 04JUL23, NATIONAL DEFENSE A-I 13-01 14. 37WKS, 03JAN.l1 SERVICE MEDAL, COAST GUARD SPECIAL OPS SERVICE IXJC. x.xxx.x X X X X X XXXXAXAA RIBBON, GLOBAL WAR ON TERRORISM SERVICE A AAAAA MEDAL, NAVY PISTOL MARKSMANSHlP RIBBON. NAVY AXA RIFLE MARKSMANSHIP RIBBON (SHARPSHOOTER).!I b. 1S_ 00: 168. MEMBERCONTRIBUTEDTO POST-VIETNAM ERAVETERANS'EDUCATIONALASSISTANCEPROGRAM HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATEOR EQUIVALENT 18. DAYS ACCRUEDlEAVE MEMBERWAS PROVIDEDCOMPlETE DENTAl EXAMlNAll0N AND AU.APPROPRIATE PAID 22.0 DENTAl SERVICESAND TREATMENTWITHIN 80 DAYS PRIOR10 SEPARATION 18.~ 117. NO NO YES NO X .SN-43043-06-0351-MJA "TWENTY FOUR MONTH EXTENSION OF SERVICE WAS AT THE REQUEST AND FOR THE CONVENlENCE OF THE GOVERNMENT ... "Dl~~n.ITY SEVERANCE PAY AtrrHORlZED AND PAID IN THE AMOUNT OF s 19.359.00 " n AXAXAAAAXAAAAAA XXAAAXAAAAA AAAAAAAAAAXAAA A XAAXXX A AAA AXAXXX~~~xx XAXXX AAAAAA x~~x XX~ XAXAXXAXXXXAXXAAX .AAAAAAAA The informedon contained hel1lln is aubjlll:l:to computer matching within the Dapanment of DefaMe Of wIttt 8ny olflereffectalt Federal or non-Federal agency for verificationpurposes end to datermine Iligibilhy for, and/or continued compliancewith, the reQuiremeMSof a Federal benefit Droaram. 198. MAlUNG ADDRESSAFTERSEPARATION(Include ZIP Code) b. NEARESTRELAllVE (NIIm. mil ,dd,_ • 1m/uri. ZJP Code) 3612 SE 33RD AVE OCALA, FL 34411 JAYME L. HEAD 3612 SE 33RD AVB, OCAI...A.FL 34471 20. MEMBER REQUESTSCOPV8 BE SENT TO FL DIRECTOROFVETERANSAFFAIRS 22. DFflClALAUTHO"!2I;!9 ~5D R. M. Dn:.L6W~~~:~»S~ \. J X lYES TQ~~~d.>'!!t'~J c ,U~~/¥PlR@e NO . SPEClALADDmONAL INFORMATION (For LIseby authorized agencies only) 24..CHARACTEROF SERVICE(IncllJdelJpgradesJ 23. TYPEOF SEPARAllON HONORABLE DISCHARGED 25. SEPARATIONCODE 26. SEPARAllON AlITHORrrY MPM 1910-1681CNPC MSG DTG 211622Z DEC05 1FL 127. REENTRYCODE RE-3P 28. NARRATIVEREASONFORSEPARAl10N DISABllJTY, SEVERANCE PAY 28. DATES Of T1MELOSTDURING THIS PERIOD(YYYYMMDD) TL-NONE DO FORM 214, FEB 2000 .-. WIISQOIII 130. MEMBER REQUE~TSCOpy 4 (Initials) PREVIOUSEDmaN IS OBSOi£TE. ,J C MEMBER-4 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 37 of 65 PageID 162 EXHIBIT I Derrick Price, Sheriff Ed Dean. and Abusive Poncmg m Ul,;Cua. nvuuu. - £U~. ~. •__ Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 38 of 65 PageID 163 I1tlantic The Conspiracy to Brutalize Derrick Price A Florida man was accused of resisting arrest-but surveutance footage of the five cops who nabbed him tells a different story. CONOR FRIEDERSDORF FEB 1, 201& I POLITICS In the summer of 2014, an article on a drug bust in Florida's Ocala Post noted the arrest of Derrick Price, 43, on charges of armed drug trafficking, drug possession, and resisting arrest. The accompanying photograph showed a table full of drugs and guns. It's the sort of case where few are inclined to question the official narrative, and body-camera footage http://www.theatlantic.comlpoliticslarchive/20 16/02lthe~conspiracy-to-brutalize-denick -pr... 4111/2016 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37in Ocala. Filed 04/13/16 39 of 65 PageID 164 Derrick Price, Sheriff Ed Dean. and Abusive Policing Florida - ThePage Atlantic Page 2 of4 seemed to confirm that the suspect had resisted. It's very shaky and doesn't quite capture the man on the ground, but there's a lot of commotion and a bunch of cops repeatedly shouting, "Stop resisting! Stop resisting! " Now watch the mashup below. The first video is from that police officer's body camera. Afterward is the same incident as captured by a private surveillance camera: Award wmruno Honda r1eputy lnrnrted Tal Beating Nor.·Re::a ..;tl... The cops engaged in fakery. The suspect's peaceful surrender was clear as could be. The shouts about resisting arrest were misdirection, whether for potential bystanders or for whoever might review the body camera footage. Absent the private video, a conviction on the charge of resisting arrest would've been a real possibility-most juries tend to believe police, particularly when five cops http://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archiveI20 16/02/the-conspiracy-to-brutalize-derrick -pr.; 411112016 Case Price. 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document Filed 04/13/16 40 of 65 PageID 165 Derrick Sheriff Ed Dean, and Abusive Policing37in Ocala, Florida - ThePage Atlantic Page 3 of4 tell the same story and video footage appears to back it. The cops certainly wouldn't have been charged with crimes. Yet they were lying criminals. Four pleaded guilty to federal charges of violating Price's civil rights. "The abusive and unprofessional actions they displayed shocked me to my core, n Marion County Sheriff Chris Blair told Reuters. A fifth, indicted for standing by during the incident, claims that he is innocent and is fighting in court. All five officers were veterans. What are the odds that this is the first time a cop in that department needlessly brutalized a suspect or allowed a colleague to do so? State Attomey Brad King thinks that they're slim, despite the fact that Sheriff Blair quickly fired the offending cops and reported them to the FBI in this instance. As the local newspaper puts it: King is alleging that ... there are other cases of suspected abuse, falsified reports and other improprieties ... Certainly this is a problem for Blair, who has been accused of cowboy tactics in the past by King and others. But it is also a problem for King, who must prosecute the cases Blair's deputies bring to his office, and if there is reasonable doubt as to not only the suspect's guilt, but the integrity of the investigation itself, getting criminals off the street permanently is at risk. The two reportedly don't get along. "While Blair was head of the Major Crimes Unit under fanner Sheriff Ed Dean, King protested his tactics and techniques to the point he insisted Dean allow one of his assistants to http://www.theatlantic.comlpoliticslarchive/20 16/02/the-conspiracy -to-brutalize-derrick -pr... 4111/2016 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 41 of 65 PageID 166 Derrick Price, Sheriff Ed Dean. and Abusive Policing in Ocala, Florida - The Atlantic Page 4 of4 monitor Blair's cases," the Ocala Star Banner editorializes. "When Blair ran for sheriff in 2012, the normally reticent King came out and questioned his fitness to be sheriff based on that history." The lessons are the same ones that video footage has taught in police departments around the country: Neither the truthfulness nor the good behavior of police officers can be presumed; some nwnber of cops will perpetrate criminal assaults if they aren't watched closely, and many of their colleagues would sooner bite their tongues or lie to cover up for criminal misbehavior than violate the blue code of silence. Body cameras aren't a cure-all, but they help, especially if all officers are wearing them and the full footage is reviewed closely by overseers whenever force is used. And when flagrant abuse is discovered, there have almost always been warning signs along the way. ABOUT r THE AUTHOR CON 0 R FR lED E RS D0 R F 15 a staff writer at The Atlantic, where he focuses on politics and national affairs. He lives in Venice. California. and Is the founding editor of The Best of Journalism, a newsletter devoted to exceptional nonfiction. W Twitter ~ Email http://www.theatiantic.com/politics/archive!20 16/02/the-conspiracy~to-brutalize-derrick-pr... 411112016 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 42 of 65 PageID 167 EXHIBIT J Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 43 of 65 PageID 168 BELOW Rt\NGE OFFENDERS CASES: DEGREE IN EACH PRIMARY 01-' DECREASE OFFENSE FOR CATEGORY I FiscaJ Years: 2012-2014 NON-GOVERNMENT SPONSORED BELOW RANGE GOVERNMENT SPONSORED BELOW RANGE Mean PRIMARY OFFENSE N TOTAL Murdrr Manslaughter Median Mean Pereeat Paunt Decrease Rate Decrease Median Percent Decrease 235.428 2I7 16'.2 18.7 291 48.0 34.0 41.7 19.3 45.9 30.0 11.9 28.0 2S 9 5.6 50.6 38.2 36.3 40.0 388 19.8 17 1 182 2~.9 33.3 44.4 36.2 499 U8 50.0 43.2 50.0 100.0 38.0 50.0 15.4 139 31.Z 471 40.7 534 40.2 51.7 43.8 218 Kidnappin&IHostBv TakinE SnullllAbuse 1396 ASSBUH 2,]24 2.463 170 Robbery Arson Drugs - Trafficking Drup - CommuoKation Pereent Dr<'reau Ratt Facility Drugs - Simple Posse5lJion Firearms BurgiarylB& E AutoThd't 68.253 40.9 1,129 4,351 24,061 134 25.3 0.5 18.1 95 21.4 3.980 10.6 116 Laueny 23.171 Fraud Embezzlement Foreery/Couotmeitin& Bribecy 249 988 9.9 2.312 723 13 I 333. Tu 1.863 Monry Laundrriog Racketfering/.E:Ktortion 2.,530 21.8 382 2.642 230a 31 2 29] 166 73,077 5,858 1.277 31 9 293 193 93 15.4 GamblinglLotter)' Cjvil Righu Immigration Child Pomography Prison Offenses Administration of Justice OfTmSfS EnvironmentallW'ildlife National Dd'I!IJ!le Antitrust Food & Drug Other :Mlsc:eIlaneousOffenSe! 3,943 527 347 55 133 6,677 _e I Of iIIc 240.044 mao H,II> ewIucIcd clue 10 miumaboo lila! ~ 01 \·,tnable'II!1Odin thi~ table _ pnwok4l In .\f'I"I'd" -\ 21 1 41 2 65 S 112 11 7 5.2 3 47.2 58.0 89.9 4S 0 442 24.5 17.8 ]93 236 )47 26.1 323 33.8 38.1 58.1 0.8 812 390 59.4 78.9 59.0 72.7 63.5 64.2 72.7 21.5 519 52.9 20.8 24.1 12.4 75.3 669 75.3 60.3 70.2 79.1 65.6 49.5 932. 100.0 21.6 69.2 25.9 30.4 21.5 32.4 43.4 27.9 66.6 39.9 428 460 73.6 931 57.7 69.8 806 677 m.... ng from Ibe submlltcd d"cllm«lI!.IbII1'f~lII1cd 99.9 55.4 700 100.0 64.4 55.3 59.1 44.4 100.0 635 34.8 22.3 25.2 34.9 122 39.1 89.0 64.0 41.4 40.4 45.1 42.4 40.0 47,2 99.S 13.7 229 100.0 194 54.3 72.4 22.8 998 16.3 63.3 84.0 503 73.8 79.9 750 142 692 lire t_pc"naI ofillc 20.0 _'c:nce &Dd tile guideline r~ 36.1 35.8 29.7 205 31.0 500 100.0 26.7 538 471 100.0 538 99.6 66.7 600 99.8 55.5 33.2 100.0 66.7 ,34.8 38.5 38.8 60.0 1000 478 73 J 99.6 891 I~JI'II.IlII' b.:I,,,. : Of lite 11~7n o:.ua _laII:cd III.: (IUlddme rllfll'':' lo7.~ij7cue. hAd,·,),UP/d. ~u,doll!'"IppIJ ...b"" InfunnaboJQ IJu.: Iu &II ,".b,h~ Il> .:&I.:ullledw: c"""'" of cIqtatIIIte fIX ~ 1',111I I!IlIdclinc lIlan_ ofli~ III oddi_1 5~Z ~ were &.]"" excluded ~ ll"' I,hl-; fUt1hamJn, """ ...... _. c'l:tbldcd due: II, -'" I,*l<a! trilcrilt.. Oflbc: ~ 106.9~ ~ 111_ e>rlPdcd d"" to rnis.<mpsentence mIilnnabllII :-.;"'" tbaJ It... inf....,.1im ~ad III dul lable does mdlllk .... bIc es uf pruIoolI.n hoi dt_ DOlmel""" any r= of aJ_b\'e ClOOfJOClJlllOr'" dcaibcd in uss H ~~Cl I ~Ol 'RCF llu, wu ....1I.hh:al u'1J18~! . s s.:nICll<:'1IiC'lIDD'I... M... ·' Inlcnch\c SI-.un:dKd. (,"" u.... S"'. u'108dII! C.ilInh",,,,,·,r....... ~.:ar 2Ol2·2ul4 I'lltalilc: .. 1'SS<.'F'Y2012·''SSCFY20I~ Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 44 of 65 PageID 169 BELOW RANGE CASES: DEGREE OF DECREASE FOR OFFENDERS IN EACH PRIMARY OFFENSE CATEGORY Fiscal Years: 1012-1014 Circuit: Il tb Circuit NON~GOVEJlNM~'T SPONSORED BELOW RANGE GOVERNMENT SPONSORED BEWWRANGE PRIMARY OFFENSE TOTAL Murder MansIBupter .KidnappingIHostage Taking Se:lual Abuse A1I8u1t Robbery Arson Drup • Tramcking Drugs - Communication Farility Drugs· Simpl" Possrssion Firearms BurglArylB&E AutoThert Larceny Fraud Embe:zzJemeot Forgery/Counterfeiting Briber,.. N 20,284 2Z Rate 19.6 182. Mean Percent M~ian Percent Decrease Decrease 48.1 Mean Percent Rate 41.4 Decrease Median Percent Deerealle l.Z.~ 136 42.9 326 33.2 37.5 61.0 24.0 31.4 33.1 37.2 1000 35.0 24 1 19.6 400 0 1 500 171 91 14.6 7.7 37.4 797 362 91.7 14.0 16.5 :zJ6 9 s.s 26.3 25.7 25.0 42.4 68.4 378 96 III 33.7 104 1000 90 2,928 23.2 30.2 33 137 433 35.1 22.4 (, 167 22 9.1 601 3,738 89 211 5.,529 88 Tn 16l .50 112 25.6 19.1 Money Laundering Rackcteering/E:s:tortion Gam blinEfLottery Civil Rights Immigration Child Pornography Prison Ofrensa Administration of Justice Offenses EnviroommtallWildlire National Defense Antitrust Food & Drug Other Mlsrellaneous Ofreoses 349 261 179 10 223 30.0 IS.:'! 11 1 12.3 349 125 22 3,034 620 30 357 33 12.9 64 ]88 29 414 83.3 10.7 4.1 6 28 1,190 557 56.0 ~7 550 6 59.2 62.7 54.2 9.1 21.1 26.7 28 I 20.6 44.6 SO 0 7S.0 318 50.0 6(,.7 47.8 44.7 100.0 100 0 492 44.4 C<M1III, .. _·. ktl.:n.1ti\c S.lIJt(...... 18.9 100.0 22.2 7S.1 51.2 62.7 100.0 41.7 617 60Q 50.0 24.0 53.9 43.2 321 22.9 40.0 36.4 15.4 40.7 66.7 73.4 86.7 88.3 ]00.0 21.3 28 ] 46.0 4] .4 17.2 69.9 60.0 91.6 70.0 64.9 S67 100.0 57.5 17.9 8.4 76.6 62.7 66.7 44.9 93.5 889 546 41.4 51.3 13.3 100.0 63.7 : Uflbe 8,~2II.:.uC11_1coced bel" .. ' ~1" gmdclmc "fISC. 8..oW2o;aseshad IlIJmplct~fUlcIc:lmc.pphutI()(IlnJmn.llm Due ~llll mablb~ picIdinI: IDinimom ...rh1i:, l1li addin"lUlI 41 ___ _.., ...... ~ &11111 lit" ""'Ie ()( die _i~ S.~! cast. ~ 1baI1ho: infnnna_ P'*1ioo. '"" d<1.:s IlOlulclud" ao~·Dmeof a/lmual"" ~t ... ill [ 'SSU §~C[ I """""bad 46.2 63.5 50.4 39.1 100.0 61.1 40.7 37.2 47.2 629 76 I I Of Ibc 20.713 _, ..29 w.:rcndllCbl due: 1<> Illftlnnallcn IIurtwu 1IIJ'!IIrIJfrom 1MSlbnnaad 00wmmt.1ba, JlfC'mtec[ 1hc: \.'Qllpell!IIlI'I of Ibc __ .criibl~.u~ in !bi.tabk; _ prm,doIll1 \Pf"'I"'JJ' A SO! 'an .. 111u 1'>11.' pr...i'i<<>1lt11.11t die I S Smt_ll1t I I" 40.5 36.7 100.0 667 33.3 36.4 4].6 996 *'III 1hc pidoIiftc DIIJC r-.ipt"",. of "",,111.,. the extent "r departure Iix_ \\illt. p<e....o.d In tbi.1IIhlc d,,,,, iDcWtk ___ 01 ,"~.u.'",..,,)"JUl, the CtliIIml••••• f. fi..:aJ ~Ul :!o1~·2t'14IlaJ.lIiIe."(·s.',cn·:!OI~·( 'SS('F'Y2Il14 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 45 of 65 PageID 170 BELOW RANGE CASES: DEGREE OF DECREASE FOR OFFENDERS IN EACH PRIMARY OFFENSE CATEGORY Fiscal Years: 2012-2014 1 District: Florida Mid NON-GOVERNMENT SPONSORED BELOW RANGE GOVERNMENT SPONSORED BELOW RANGE Mean PRIMARY OFFENSE N 4.661 TOTAL Murder 8 l\tanslaupttr IOdoappJog/Hostagt Taking 47 AlI8uH Robbery 16 Fmrms BurgiarylB&E Auto Thflt Larceny Fraud Embezzlement FOf'ErlJ'iCouDtmeitiol Bribery Ta~ MoolI!Y Laundering 2.4.4 125 48.~ 42.1 128 501 4~7 Rate DHI'tau 30.7 44.8 Median Percent DtcreaJe 34.8 170 31.9 26.0 31.3 707 100.0 118 12.5 120 17.6 37.1 17.8 384 430 37.4 2:5 6 32.5 22.8 7 286 4 628 ]{)6 456 399 34.0 20.0 85 587 592 III 59 :5 598 8 25.0 43 35 19 9.3 37. ] 36.8 67.1 679 43.8 400 44.6 15.8 82.7 56.6 75.6 57.1 60.8 66.4 60.3 20.4 100.0 23.2 32 5.4 48.6 554 18.5 56 599 32.9 53.2 33.8 209 647 45.7 37.3 40.0 36.4 ]43 643 62.5 367 59.6 50.0 61.2 79.3 52.4 100.0 28.6 31.2 I 3 129 673 31 751 Child Pornography 232 or Decrease Mean Percent J4 0 1.670 Racket~ringlExtortion Gamblina/Lottery Civil Righb Immigration Prison Offenses Administration Justice Offenses EnviroDmmta.llWildJife Natioa.al Defense Antitrun Food & Drug Other MIs~eUaneouJ Offenses Median Percent 0 0 Suual Abuft Arson Drugs - TraITlCking Drup - Communication Facility Drugs - Simple Possession Rate Percent Decrease 46~ 333 44.2 38.2 355 387 50.0 65.1 37 ] :50.0 850 46.7 55.0 67.1 59.5 20.0 0 1 2 49 7 5 28.6 200 40.0 11.8 600 25.7 0 5' 136 I Of 1bc ~.(MI",-,~1~1 __ ~«dudcd due to ,lIf.-.m1lli<ll11ba1 .... 111m""'.!! II"", Ib<> ;uMn,lIed ~ \GlMoleo u!lal in fhj, table en. pruo.-id«! in \JIIII2Id" ~ 770 100.0 !bat pr~enDi IlK <:mlJllf'''''' '" 1hc __ 1Dd Ih: r:u~ 'III&C. I~pOoo' _1alCCId bel" .. Ib.: gurdulme 'MIle. ':'~JSI <ll1eO hood wmplclc gwddmc appl":ab'JII mfllflllab'lII Due '0 an ",.IIlI,~ k) c ..lcularc the extent uf departure fl)< ~ poAcliDeIIlinitnualofhe. on oddihmal 13 <UCI M:tC .... , a..bW mm dU. bhk 0{ Ibo:Rm&,nln!t 252C>ca_. :w.te tIuJ die lIl['otaWlOCI ptelCOllOdinIhiA tabk doc, me ludc _,,[ fI"lIMbolll, but does iKlf Uldudc 1Id~'_ of "'_h", ...... liDoonomr ... do!li:nbod m I 'sso §~C II : ()f Ibo: 2,SII~ ~ SOI'ReF. Th•• " .. ,.-oduc~ UII.II~!beI' S Seolr_'IIfC<lIIIIII ... I<JII'.lntcncb\'C SotUm:too.d",'" u.... 8"') DAngIbo: C<lIMIIlIIItlD'. Jig ~_ ZtII2.2014!lGtallb. 01 \l1d! a l'SSCr'i2(l12,l'SSCfi'201~ Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 46 of 65 PageID 171 EXHIBIT K Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 47 of 65 PageID 172 Table 31e BELO\V GUIDELINE RANGE WITH BOOKER Its U.S.C. § 3!\53: DEGREE OF DECREASE FOR OFFENDERS IN EACH PRIMARY OFFENSE CATEGORyl Fiscal Year 2015 PRIMARY OFFENSE TOTAL Murder Marulaugbter KidnapplnWHO$tage Taking Sexual Abuse A.wmU Robbrry Anoo Drug. - Trafficking Drugs - Communication Facility Dmp - Simple Posseuioo Fiftanns Bu~/B&E Auto 1bert Larftll)' Fraud EmbezlJemeot ForprylColDJtrrl'ritiol Bribrry Tax Laundering R8C.kefeerinrlE~tortion GamblioglLottery MOM), Ciyil Ripu Immivation Cbild Pomograpby PJiron OfTftllH Admi.nistratioo of Justice OITMses EnvlroomrntallWildlife Natiofud DefenR Antitrust Food & Dmg OtMr MIJ~IlIlJlflOUB OOmses Median Sentence in Months N 1l,DM ~ 14 21111 17 II 154 4 Median Decrease in Monllls From Guideline Minimum 15 39 Median Pertenf Deerease From Guideline Minimum 36,8 lO.O 22 348 56 33 III 33..5 1J7 HI4 164 4 1211 12 46 101 24 526 25.1 41.3 3,738 75 4~ 12 19 31.0 IS 50,0 3 3 1.34IJ 6 1.5 26.7 18 28.6 66.7 8 311 7 11 52.4 .5 40 10 194 1.1126 (l 2UO 100.1) 1.5 10 12 II 111 H4 94 50 II 100.0 3 II 833 14 12 49,9 2 12 18 83.6 507 294 100.0 56 234 180 213 )(. 13 (I 15 3 18 17 8 12 1.743 18 10 ts« 78 (4) ('II) 11 ('I It 82.8 36,8 40.9 333 22 2 :\!I I1l W 28 14 8 14 77.8 21)4 0 HI Q9.9 '2Ml 29 1 6U,IJ 86.7 43.0 I OftJx11.U03 cases. 12.im ~ ~ heI.(>w ~puloM!Jme 13nF,",,1hIJaoI.n 1&U S l' § JS:'3 Ot these. ) 1.707C&$e$had compldepuldrlW appl..:atiooinfonnatioo. Due lOan IlI3bth~to .;:alcula~1hI:~1all of~ for easeswuh a gmdehne minunlDlI o(b!"e,mladdJlJoDa.I SI cases _ ;1150 excluded frum this lable Of the nlIIlllininill 1.656 cases. IhruIl \\\:Ie excludad dlJl: 10 missin.!lsenlence inlonnatton. Nole lhal the mfllllMUOllI'J-med in thrs IAIbledOC'!! mcludc:senlences of probation. but d0C5 not UlCIude1In~ lime:of ahemetree confinement as described in USSG §5C1 1 Descnpti(IJIS o!,vmuhles used 1II11n~ table lUI: prm'lded UlAppmdix A Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 48 of 65 PageID 173 EXHIBIT L Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 49 of 65 PageID 174 0- ...... c~ me -'-a ~ ~ ~ ;;u !l. CD < III ,...CD n i. ~; :s. 0 s» I» fA s» ;:, CD <III c •n::r '"; a-~ !! n •... III ::...::;, CD ;:, n ~ o A» :1::1. ..a.c -nm ~a ~< o0:1i· o:::sCDe _ . en fA 0.. CD ~ I» ,... CJJ CD :::s ,... CD :::s n _. ::J cc Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 50 of 65 PageID 175 EXHIBIT A Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 51 of 65 PageID 176 DLE Florida Department of Law Enforcement Gerald M. Bailey Commissioner 106 SW 140dl Terrace Suite I Newberry, Florida 32669 (352) 313-6524 www.fdJe.state.fl.us Rick Scott, Governor Pam Bondi, Attorney General Jeff Atwater. Chief Financial Officer Adam Putnam, Commissioner of Agriculture August 19, 2013 Marion County Sheriff Chris Blair Marion County Sheriffs Office 692 NW 30th Ave Ocala, Fl34475 (352) 732-8181 RE: letter of Commendation for assistance by Members of the Marion County Sheriffs Office to FDlE in reference to a Murder Investigation. Commendation for the follOwing Deputies: Sergeant Donnie Medlin #1153 Sergeant Eric Owens #1265 U.S. Marshall Task Force Deputy! Detective Donald Buie #2200 Detective Dave Rasnick #4422 Detective Tim Liberatore #4316 Detective Ben Bustamante #5683 Deputy Jar:nes~mIQel#5655 K-9 Deputy Keith Wilkes #5431 On August 14, 2013, the FDlE contacted the Marion County Sheriffs Office (MCSO) with a request for assistance in a homicide investigation. FDlE had been contacted by the Jacksonville Sheriffs Office (JSO) and requested to attempt to locate Joshua Lee Dukes. JSO had obtained an arrest warrant charging Dukes with Murder and Attempted Armed Robbery. Dukes had fled Jacksonville after the murder. On August 6, 2013, Dukes and two (2) co-conspirators traveled to the Park Place Apartments located at 6226 Barnes Road South, in Jacksonville, Florid with the intent to commit an armed robbery. Two victims, residents of the apartment complex, were standing in the parking lot when they were approached by the two (2) co-conspirators. Dukes approached the individuals from the rear and ordered them to get on the ground. As the two victims proceeded to run away, Dukes fired and struck one of the victims several times. That victim was later pronounced deceased at UF Shands Hospital in Jacksonville. The two (2) co-conspirators were apprehended by JSO and identified Dukes as the shooter. On August 14,2013, FDLE located Dukes at 16 Pine Trace Drive, Ocala, Florida. MCSO and FDLE surrounded the residence and issued orders for the occupants to come outside. The Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 52 of 65 PageID 177 MARlON COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE TO: DEPUTY JAMES AMIDEI, #5655 FROM: LIEUTENANT BRIAN SPIVEY DATE: MAY 15TH, 2014 SUBJECT: TOP PRODUCER APRIL, 2014 • • Subsequent to a review of the Monthly Activity Report. and after conferring with Sgt. Owens. ] have determined you to be the Top Producer for the Fugitive Apprehension Unit. Your efforts in this area are both noted and appreciated. I encourage you to maintain the high standards you have set for yourself. Thank you! Brian Spivey Is cc: Sheriff Blair Chief Deputy LaTorre Major Craig Captain Pistarelli Human Resources Chris Blair, Sheriff Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 53 of 65 PageID 178 SHERIFF-== Marion County MEMORANDUM TO: Deputy J. Amidei, 5655 FROM: Lieutenant V. Jones DATE: August 2, 2012 SUBJECT: Top Producer for the Month of July Subsequent to review of the Monthly Activity Report, I have determined you to be the Top Producer for the Silver Springs Shores District, A Platoon. Your efforts in this area are both noted and appreciated. I encourage you to maintain the high standards you have set for yourself. Thank you! A/ph cc: Sheriff Dean Chief Bigelow Major Craig Capt Ro"s Human Resources P.O. Box 1987. Ocala, FL 34478 Ph. (352) 732-8181 Civil (352) 620-3606 • Emergency Management (352) 622-3205 • Jail (352) 351-8077 "PUTTING CITIZENS FIRST" Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 54 of 65 PageID 179 ..• ... 0 -en '" z - i . ~ ;: II :.:: III z "' !C 0 CD .. -u c -< III CIt ~ )It ... z ..= t:I i '" < =...= 0 =- D 3 iii tt:I& c.. 0 • '" ~ CD 3 _. ••.. a. t - ." -. -• CD a til ttl t S ~ ;~ o I ~ 1:':1 I ~;tj o c~ z . ~ - -.; Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 55 of 65 PageID 180 EXHIBIT B Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 56 of 65 PageID 181 J Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 57 of 65 PageID 182 EXHIBIT C Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 58 of 65 PageID 183 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 59 of 65 PageID 184 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 60 of 65 PageID 185 EXHIBIT 0 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 61 of 65 PageID 186 Owen. Glen From: CARSDatabaseSuper User <carsu@cxprod.c:f.edu> Tuesday,January OS, 2016 9:59 AM oweng@cxprod.cf.edu CARSoutput via e-mail Sent: To: Subject: STUDENT SCHEDULE Collegeof Central Florida 3001 SW College Road Ocala, Florida 34474 Ocala Campus 352 854-2322 Date: 01/05/2016 Time: 09:58 Citrus County Campus Levy County Campus 352746-6721 352 493-9533 Student: Amidei, JamesL. Degree: No Degree Earned ID No: 524972 Major: Adult Enrichment Spring Semester 2016 SCHEDULE Days Time Course SecLoc Bldg Room Instructor Beg Date EndDate Title Tuition labfee ------- 12:00p 12:00p ENCI101 72 Citr Keene l 351.30 0.00 01/06/16 05/06/16 Freshman Composition Skills I No Orientation. Go to www.cf.edu/elearning to login to CANVAS.Email dlhelp@cf.edu if you experience problems. ------- TBA P052041 70 Off- 0099 999 Thompson J 351.30 0.00 01/06/16 05/06/16 American National Government No orientation. Go to MyCF Total Hours = 6.0 10: 524972 Spring Semester 2016 FEES 1 Financial Aid Applied Estimated --------------------------------1----------------------------------------------------------------------1-------1 Your tuition and fees for this semester are 702.60 I I Tuition and Feesfor Fall 1 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 62 of 65 PageID 187 Semester will be assessed on July 1st of each year. I 0.00 0.00 Pleasepay your tuition and fees in full by 01/06/2016. Note: Tuition and fees will be deferred automatically if you have been awarded aid for this semester (Clickon the MyCF portal Financial Aid tab, click on My Financial Aid in the left sidebar, then click on My FinancialAid Awards). If there are no awards, check for holds and/or documents needed that could delay the processingof your award or visit the Enrollment ServicesCenter to check your status. Students who are not receiving financial assistance are expected to pay fees by the fee due date or officially drop their classes. Student: JamesL. Amidei Address: 29 FIRRD OCALA,FL 34472 STUDENT SCHEDULE College of Central Florida 3001 SW College Road Ocala, Florida 34474 Ocala Campus 352 854-2322 Date: 01/05/2016 Time: 09:58 Citrus County Campus LevyCounty Campus 352 746-6721 352 493-9533 Student: Amidei, James L. Degree: No Degree Earned ID No: 524972 Major: Adult Enrichment Spring Semester 2016 SCHEDULE Days Time Course SecLoc Bldg Room Instructor BegDate EndDate Title Tuition Labfee Academics tab to login to Canvas. General Online info: cf.edu/elearning. Pleaseemail dlhelp@cf.edu if you have any problem. Total Hours = 6.0 10: 524972 Spring Semester 2016 FEES 2 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 63 of 65 PageID 188 1 Financial Aid Applied Estimated -----------------------------1---------------------------------- ------------------------------1------1 Your tuition and fees for this semester are 702.60 I I 1 Tuition and Feesfor Fall Semester will be assessedon July 1st of each year. 1 0.00 0.00 Pleasepay your tuition and fees in full by 01/06/2016. Note: Tuition and fees will be deferred automatically if you have been awarded aid for this semester (Click on the MyCF portal Financial Aid tab, click on My Financial Aid in the left sidebar, then click on My Financial Aid Awards). If there are no awards, check for holds and/or documents needed that could delay the processing of your award or visit the Enrollment ServicesCenter to check your status. Students who are not receiving financial assistance are expected to pay fees by the fee due date or officially drop their classes. Student: JamesL. Amidei Address: 29 FIRRD OCALA,FL 34472 3 Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 64 of 65 PageID 189 EXHIBIT E Case 5:15-cr-00035-WTH-PRL Document 37 Filed 04/13/16 Page 65 of 65 PageID 190 Southerll Illinois University Undergraduate Admissions admissions.siu.edu Carbondale WWW.SiUC.8du April 18, 2008 James Louis Amidei 3612 SE 33rd Ave Ocala, FL 34471 Dear James: Welcome to Southern Illinois University Carbondale! This is your official notice of admission. Please review the information below. If any corrections need to be made, please ld us know. Academic Unit: Applied Sciences and Arts Major: Electronic Systems Technologies Term of Entry: Summer 2008 Level: Reentry Residency: out-of-state Degree: Bachelor of Science Scholastic Standing: Good standing PIN: 2030 You can access your records at SalukiNet (http.ssalukinet.siu.edu/). Your PIN is listed above. If you need to provide transcripts or other items, they are listed below. You will know that all of your records have been received when you receive your completed evaluation of transfer credit. If you are seeking the special privileges available through the Capstone Program, failure to make application to Capstone and to submit all official transcripts immediately may result in lack of consideration or denial of participation in this program. The Off-Campus Programs staff, of your Academic Unit, will be happy to work with you if you have any questions. Again, weicome to SlUe! Sincerely. f-~ James Carl Interim Director Undergraduate Admissions OMP --------Adrmssrons Reception Center· Mall Coda 4710 • Southern llhnnrs University Carbondale 425 Clocktower Drive • Carbondale, lllinors 62901 • 618 I 5364405 • Fax: 6181453.4609 _. -,. ---