U.S. Department of Justice

Convicted Drug Trafficker Charged With Escaping Custody of Butner Federal Prison

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-Press Release, U.S. Department of Justice

United States Attorney Robert J. Higdon, Jr. announces that today, RICHARD R. CEPHAS, of Wilmington, Delaware, was charged in a federal Criminal Complaint with escaping from the custody of the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) in Butner, North Carolina on or about April 1, 2020.

The Criminal Complaint was authorized by United States Magistrate Judge Robert T. Numbers, II, and supported by the sworn affidavit of a Deputy United States Marshal. The United States Marshals Service (USMS) has been investigating CEPHAS’ alleged escape since he was discovered missing on April 2.

In June 2017, CEPHAS was sentenced by the United States District Court for the District of Delaware to a term of 66 months in federal prison – for his violation of Title 21, United States Code, Sections 841 (a)(l) and (b)(l)(A) and 846, Conspiracy to distribute, and to possess with intent to distribute, five kilograms or more of cocaine.

The conviction and sentence resulted from a long-term High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) federal wiretap investigation spearheaded by the Drug Enforcement Administration’s (DEA) Drug Trafficking Task Force in Delaware.  More about that investigation here.

As alleged in the publicly filed affidavit attached to the Criminal Complaint, CEPHAS had been serving the remainder of his prison sentence at the Federal Prison Camp in Butner, NC. On April 2, 2020, CEPHAS was placed in an escape status by the BOP following his absence from a bed count conducted by staff at the Butner facility. At the time of his absence, CEPHAS was not authorized to be away from the Federal Prison Camp. He remains in an escape status and law enforcement is working to determine his whereabouts.

U.S. Attorney Higdon issued the following statement:

“This morning, members of my office obtained a criminal complaint charging Richard R. Cephas with violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 751(a), escape from the custody of a facility to which he was confined at the Direction of the Attorney General.

The complaint alleges that Mr. Cephas began planning his escape as early as March 30. At that time, he had email communication with at least one family member. Two days later, Mr. Cephas contacted another family member regarding his plan to escape. When a headcount was conducted later that day, and again very early in the morning of April 2, Mr. Cephas was missing. A search of the entire prison complex resulted in a determination that Mr. Cephas had escaped.

Media reports surfaced late yesterday afternoon in which an individual identifying himself as Richard Cephas during a recorded video interview explained that he escaped from Butner because of health concerns related to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and his belief that he is particularly vulnerable because of an ongoing chronic health condition. This, he explained, justified his escape and warrants a modification to his underlying sentence. He also argued that it requires the Justice Department to overlook and tolerate his escape.

Let me be clear, Mr. Cephas is a convicted drug trafficker who was sentenced to federal prison for his role in a wide-ranging drug conspiracy that imported cocaine and methamphetamine into the United States from Mexico. He was convicted in federal court in Delaware and sentenced to a term of imprisonment, which he was serving at the Butner facility. Mr. Cephas’ decision to escape federal custody is nothing more than an opportunistic move to use the coronavirus pandemic as an excuse to cut his prison term short. He is a fugitive from justice and federal law enforcement will find him and bring him to Court here in the Eastern District to answer these charges.

Should Mr. Cephas choose to turn himself in, he may do so at any law enforcement office; to the United States Marshal for the Eastern District of North Carolina (call 919-856-4153); or to the United States Marshal in any federal district in which he is currently located (call 877-WANTED-2). Otherwise, federal agents will pursue his arrest.

Mr. Cephas will, of course, be extended his Constitutional rights when he appears in Court, including the presumption of innocence and the requirement that the Government prove the escape case against him beyond a reasonable doubt. We look forward to presenting our case before the Court.

In the meantime, the public should assume that Mr. Cephas is dangerous and they should take caution if they encounter him. The public should also know that anyone who knowingly harbors or assists Mr. Cephas in avoiding arrest may be in violation of federal law as well.

I want to thank the law enforcement officers who have been tasked with investigating this case and pursuing Mr. Cephas’ arrest. His decision to escape has increased their already heavy workload and has raised the risk of illness and harm to them by drawing them out into the community at this difficult time. This is another example of the dedication of law enforcement who serve us no matter the circumstances.”

The charges and allegations contained in the Criminal Complaint are merely accusations.  The defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in a court of law.

Families Living Violence Free

Families Living Violence Free Continues Services Through Pandemic

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-Information courtesy Peggy Roark, Acting Executive Director, Families Living Violence Free

As concern over COVID-19 continues to grow, Families Living Violence Free has implemented an emergency plan to continue to provide services to clients.

Effective immediately, the Crisis Hotline will be fully operational 24/7 for advocacy, connection to resources, supportive counseling and safety planning. Services will be provided by advocates.

For victims and survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, Families Living Violence Free will remain open during normal business hours to respond to client needs. After hours, the crisis line will remain open. Clients are strongly encouraged to conduct business via phone or email when appropriate.

If you are in immediate physical danger, please call 911.

If further services are needed, you can contact advocates on the hotline at (919) 693-5700 (English) or (919) 690-0888 (Spanish).

Filing a Domestic Violence Protective Order (DVPO)?

Families Living Violence Free can help with the process. Please the office number at (919) 693-3579, and an advocate can assist you with safety planning and filling out the order.

If you have filed a DVPO and would like to apply for free Legal Aid referral, please call (919) 693-3579.

H-V Emergency Operations

Vance County COVID-19 Cases Rise to 27; Granville Reports 105

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-Information courtesy Brian K. Short, Director of Henderson-Vance County Emergency Operations

As of April 16, 2020, the total number of confirmed positive cases of COVID-19 in Vance County increased to 27. Presently, 25 individuals are self-isolating at home with two (2) others currently undergoing treatment at Maria Parham Health.

One death has been reported in Vance County as a result of complications associated with Coronavirus infection.

According to Granville Vance Public Health, there are 105 known cases in Granville County, with 74 of these cases being reported at the Federal Correctional Complex in Butner. The NC Department of Health and Human Resources reports four (4) virus-related deaths in Granville County.

North Carolina reports a total of 5,465 cases.

It is still very likely that given the progression of this virus elsewhere in the world and in our country, cases will continue to increase over the days and weeks ahead.

At this time, the Henderson-Vance Emergency Operations coordinated response posture remains the same. We strongly encourage our citizens to continue to observe the social distancing parameters and closing orders issued by the governor and suggested by our local and state public health agencies.

Treasurer Folwell Announces $2 Billion Received as Part of CARES Act

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-Press Release, NC Department of State Treasurer

State Treasurer Dale R. Folwell, CPA, and the Financial Operations Division (FOD) of the Department of State Treasurer (DST) announced on Thursday that North Carolina has received more than $2 billion from the federal government as part of the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act.

The CARES Act, as passed by Congress and signed by the President, will provide $150 billion for the Coronavirus Relief Fund including direct payments to states, the District of Columbia, U.S. Territories, and eligible units of local government based on population as provided in the CARES Act.

Office of State Budget and Management (OSBM) along with the Office of the State Controller and staff at DST completed the application on April 14 and the funds were received by the State Bank (DST/FOD) the next day. The money is the first disbursement from the federal government of more than $4 billion slated for North Carolina.

“As keepers of the public purse, we’re responsible for receiving money and putting it in interest-bearing accounts,” said Treasurer Folwell. “We’ll process the withdrawal when directed by the legislative and executive branches.”

The North Carolina General Assembly (NCGA) will decide how the state’s money will be spent as part of legislation expected near the end of the month. Once an agreement has been reached, OSBM will distribute the funds. In the interim, the Investment Management Division at DST will invest the money in a short-term investment fund (STIF) that is high quality, low risk and interest-bearing. The money will be held until the NCGA and/or OSBM directs where it will be spent.

DST serves the people of North Carolina through a variety of functions related to the financial health of the state and its citizens. Folwell serves as the state’s banker and chief investment officer and is responsible for approximately $200 billion in assets.

The department administers the employee retirement systems for more than 900,000 public workers, along with their 401(k), 457 and 403(b) plans. DST also oversees the State Health Plan, which provides health care coverage to more than 727,000 teachers, state employees, retirees, current and former lawmakers, state university and community college personnel, and their dependents.

Fiscal assistance and expertise are provided by the department to local governmental units by aiding them in the sale of local government debt obligations and in maintaining sound budgeting, accounting, and reporting procedures. The department also administers the NC Cash unclaimed property database.

Salvation Army

Union Bank Helps Salvation Army Fight Pandemic

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-Press Release, The Salvation Army of Henderson

Two gifts totaling $20,000 from Greenville, NC based Union Bank, to The Salvation Army of Henderson (serving Vance, Granville, Franklin, Northampton, Halifax and Warren Counties) will provide much-needed help and hope to Granville and Franklin County families and individuals impacted by COVID-19. The donations are earmarked to provide food and meal assistance to children and families impacted by the pandemic.

“On behalf of our Union Bank family, we are proud to offer a measure of relief during this unprecedented time,” said Rob Jones, CEO of Union Bank.  “One of our core values is to make a difference in our communities. This contribution recognizes the challenges that individuals and families in our markets currently face. I am especially proud to say that this gift includes contributions from Union Bank, members of our Board of Directors and personal contributions from Executive Management.”

Annually, The Salvation Army serves thousands of people in the six-county service area through programs that provide food and meals, shelter, clothing, disaster relief, rent and utilities assistance and Christmas gifts for needy children and seniors.

The COVID-19 pandemic has posed major financial setbacks for North Carolina residents and The Salvation Army has received an influx of requests for assistance.

“COVID-19 continues to bring challenges for many people,” said Lieutenant Derrick Smith of The Salvation Army of Henderson. “The need for Salvation Army social service programming is essential in our community. This gift from Union Bank will strengthen our feeding programs to help people facing financial difficulties at this time.”

Granville Athletic Park Begins Phase III Expansion

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-Information courtesy Granville County Government

The Phase III expansion of Granville Athletic Park (the GAP) is underway! Plans include the addition of tennis courts, an inclusive playground, volleyball courts, horseshoe pits, nine additional holes for disc golf, a picnic area, fitness stations, open spaces and additional walking trails.

Phase III will join the existing Phase I and Phase II areas, making the GAP an 80-acre recreational park.

Granville Athletic Park is located at 4615 Belltown Road in Oxford, NC and is the county’s largest recreational area.

NC Governor Logo

Governor Roy Cooper Shares Path Forward for North Carolina

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-Press Release, Office of Governor Roy Cooper

Governor Roy Cooper today charted a path forward for eventually easing certain COVID-19 restrictions while still protecting North Carolinians from a dangerous second wave of the virus.

“This virus is going to be with us until there is a vaccine, which may be a year or more away,” said Governor Cooper. “That means that as we ease restrictions, we are going to enter a new normal. We want to get back to work while at the same time preventing a spike that will overwhelm our hospitals with COVID-19 cases.”

Expert modeling has shown it would be dangerous to lift the restrictions all at once because it would increase the chances that hospitals become overwhelmed and unable to care for severely ill patients. Cooper emphasized that changes in restrictions must protect public health, especially those who are most vulnerable to severe illness, including people over age 65, those with underlying health conditions and people living in congregate settings.

“Experts tell us it would be dangerous to lift our restrictions all at once. Rather than an on/off light switch, we are viewing this as a dimmer switch that can be adjusted incrementally,” said Governor Cooper.

In order to ease restrictions, the state needs to make more progress in three areas: testing, tracing and trends.

TESTING

State planning relies on an increase in testing capabilities to identify, isolate and track new cases of COVID-19. This means having the supplies and lab capacity to do more testing across the state. Dr. Mandy Cohen, Secretary of the Department of Health and Human Services, has brought together laboratory partners from the public and private sector to coordinate efforts to ensure testing – diagnostic and antibody – is widely available across the state while also conserving protective equipment.

TRACING

Tracing requires the state to boost the public health workforce and the ability to trace contacts of new cases of COVID-19. Contact tracing can be effective at containing new outbreaks, but it requires more personnel. When a person tests positive, the tracing efforts will help identify who that individual may have been in contact with so those people can get tested and take the right precautions. NC DHHS is working with its partners to increase this critical piece of our public health workforce. New digital tools can also help scale this effort.

TRENDS

In order to ease restrictions, the state needs to understand how COVID-19 is impacting the state and impacting specific populations and regions of the state to determine when to strengthen or ease social distancing policies. Trends that will influence policy decisions will be based on data like the new positive cases, hospitalizations, deaths, as well as the available supply of personal protective equipment, hospital capacity.

“Because we acted early and because we acted together, we have averted the devastating scenarios we have seen playing out in other parts of our country and across the globe. We now need to look ahead at how we stay ahead of the curve. Widespread testing, aggressive contact tracing, and data-informed policy decisions are our best tools to keep our communities safe and protect our frontline workers,” said NC Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Mandy Cohen, MD.

Dale Folwell

Town Talk 04/15/20: Treasurer Folwell Discusses State Pension Plan, COVID-19 Recovery

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THIS STORY IS PRESENTED IN PART BY DRAKE DENTISTRY

North Carolina State Treasurer Dale R. Folwell, CPA, appeared on WIZS Town Talk Wednesday at 11 a.m.

Folwell, who has served as NC State Treasurer since 2017, is recovering after being hospitalized for five days with COVID-19. “I am thankful for all the caregivers, God, my family, and the prayers and thoughts that got me through this,” Folwell said.

He also expressed appreciation for the healthcare workers who encouraged him through the recovery process. Folwell said doctors and nurses offered emotional support while he was separated from his family due to the strict no visitor policies currently implemented at many hospitals.

Cleared by doctors and health officials to resume his duties, Folwell reassured listeners that the state pension plan is “one of the most conservatively managed in the country, if not the world.”

“Last time we talked [WIZS Town Talk January 23, 2020], we were reassuring people that we were still in the check delivering business, and that’s still the case,” stated Folwell. “Obviously, we’ve had a lot of market volatility since then, but our state pension plan is in great shape, and we continue to be in the check delivering business.”

As of earlier this week, the state pension plan was down approximately 4.2% for the calendar year, while the S&P 500 was down by almost 14%. For the fiscal year that began June 2019, the state plan is up .6%, while the S&P is down approximately 5%. While down, Folwell said he is encouraged by the fact that the state plan is still currently outperforming the stock market.

To help offset some of the losses, Folwell said the state is “looking at some of our cash balances and taking advantage of some of the opportunities being presented to us. Those who depend on this – those that teach, those that protect and those who otherwise serve – will not have to think about this.”

Calling the current economic downturn a “combination of 9/11 and the Great Recession, all combined into one,” Folwell admitted, “Revenues are down, expenses are up, collections are down, and it’s just not a good circumstance for any business.”

Following today’s interview with WIZS, Folwell addressed the current state of the pension plan, among other treasury-related topics, in a monthly “Ask Me Anything” session open to media representatives.

The monthly calls are an opportunity for reporters to ask Folwell questions about N.C. Department of State Treasurer (DST) initiatives, including the Retirement Systems Division, the State Health Plan, the State and Local Government Finance Division and the Unclaimed Property Division.

Audio of the monthly “Ask Me Anything” calls is available by clicking here.

To hear the interview with Folwell in its entirety, go to WIZS.com and click on Town Talk.

Local Response Rates for US Census; Bureau Seeks Additional Days for Final Count

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-Press Release, United States Census Bureau

The 2020 Census is underway and more households across America are responding every day. Over 70 million households have responded to date, representing over 48% of all households in America.

North Carolina’s overall self-response rate is 45.7%.

According to the US Census Bureau’s website, as of April 14, 2020, the following percentage of households in the local area had self-responded:

Franklin County – 44.4%

Granville County – 47.8%

Vance County – 41.5%

Warren County – 35.3%

The Census Bureau temporarily suspended 2020 Census field data collection activities in March. Steps are already being taken to reactivate field offices beginning June 1, 2020, in preparation for the resumption of field data collection operations as quickly as possible following June 1.

In-person activities, including all interaction with the public, enumeration, office work and processing activities, will incorporate the most current guidance to promote the health and safety of staff and the public. This will include recommended personal protective equipment (PPE) and social distancing practices.

Once 2020 Census data collection is complete, the Census Bureau begins a lengthy, thorough and scientifically rigorous process to produce the apportionment counts, redistricting information and other statistical data products that help guide hundreds of billions of dollars in public and private sector spending per year.

In order to ensure the completeness and accuracy of the 2020 Census, the Census Bureau is seeking statutory relief from Congress of 120 additional calendar days to deliver final apportionment counts.

Under this plan, the Census Bureau would extend the window for field data collection and self-response to October 31, 2020, which will allow for apportionment counts to be delivered to the President by April 30, 2021, and redistricting data to be delivered to the states no later than July 31, 2021.

NC WIC Program to Offer Food Flexibility Through May

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-Information courtesy Granville Vance Public Health

Due to COVID-19, there are significant impacts on providing WIC program services and the vendors’ abilities to maintain an inventory of certain WIC-eligible products.

In response to these strains, the North Carolina WIC Program has been approved by FNS to offer specific flexibilities for some of the food package requirements through May 31, 2020.

These flexibilities include:

Milk: Participants who have skim/nonfat or 1% milk on their food benefits will also be able to redeem 2% milk.

Yogurt: Participants who have nonfat/low-fat yogurt on their food benefits will also be able to redeem whole fat yogurt.

Whole Wheat/Whole Grain Bread: Participants will be allowed to substitute authorized whole wheat or whole grain bread in loaf sizes up to 24 oz. when 16 oz. packages are unavailable.

For more information on NC’s WIC program, including a list of departments by county, please visit www.nutritionnc.com/wic/.