Former Pierce County resident KENNETH WAYNE LEAMING, 57, faced the music today as he was sentenced to eight years in prison for his fraudulent activities. U.S. Attorney Jenny A. Durkan announced that Leaming was convicted of three counts of filing false liens against federal officials and one count of harboring federal fugitives, all while being a felon in possession of firearms.
“Leaming’s actions were nothing short of brazen,” Judge Ronald B. Leighton declared during sentencing. “He has earned every day of his sentence as he has consistently flaunted authority and harassed law-abiding citizens.”
His co-conspirator, DAVID CARROLL STEPHENSON, 57, a former Tacoma resident who is already serving an eight-year sentence for tax fraud, was sentenced to an additional ten years for filing false liens against federal officials. The judge emphasized the severity of Stephenson’s actions, stating that he is a dangerous man who poses a threat to society.
According to prosecutors, Leaming and Stephenson were part of the Sovereign Citizen movement, a group that believes state and federal governments are illegitimate. Members of this movement often engage in so-called “freedom driving” without licenses or permits, file frivolous liens against government officials, and sometimes resort to threats of violence.
“These defendants thought they were above the law,” said U.S. Attorney Durkan. “Their fraudulent schemes aimed at taxpayers and public servants are over. Their lengthy prison sentences serve as a deterrent for others who might consider similar actions.”
The investigation into Leaming’s activities began when authorities found six firearms at his Spanaway, Washington, home during a search warrant served on November 21, 2011. Leaming had been prohibited from possessing firearms due to a prior felony conviction. The search also revealed that two wanted federal fugitives were living with Leaming.
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Key Facts
- State: Washington
- Agency: DOJ USAO
- Category: Public Corruption|Fraud & Financial Crimes|White Collar Crime
- Source: Official Source ↗
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