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Oct 9–Oct 15 · releases published

15 October 2026

U.s. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine Observes Domestic Violence Awareness Month
District of Maine
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PORTLAND, Maine: — The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine is proud to join the U.S. Department of Justice, the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), Tribal Nations, and communities across the country in observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) this October. We reaffirm our dedication to using every available resource and building strategic partnerships with local law enforcement, fellow prosecutors, and victim service organizations to ensure justice, safety, and healing for victims.
“Domestic violence is a complex and pervasive issue that affects individuals across economic, racial, gender, religious and societal lines,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew B. Benson. “Addressing the issue requires a multi-faceted approach focused on prevention, outreach, education, and, particularly with respect our office, consequences for perpetrators.”
Each year, DVAM gives us an opportunity to focus on our collective responsibility to address domestic violence and emphasize the importance of collective action. In fiscal years 2025 and 2026, OVW granted funding to multiple local organizations including the Maine Department of Public Safety, the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence, the Maine Department of Health and Human Services, Partners for Peace, the Maine Coalition Against Sexual Assault, Disability Rights Maine, the Next Stop Domestic Violence Project, Safe Voices, the Mi’Kmaq Nation, the Houlton Band of Maliseet Indians, the Penobscot Indian Nation, the Family Violence Project, New Hope for Women, and Pine Tree Legal Assistance.
By raising awareness about domestic violence during DVAM, we can bring everyone together to end the abuse. We encourage all who live in our jurisdiction to learn more about domestic violence and take meaningful action to support friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors who may be affected. Victims deserve safety, dignity, and justice. By understanding the signs of abuse and connecting victims to resources, we can all play a role in creating safer communities.
We are committed to prosecuting those who violate federal laws, collaborating with local law enforcement and prosecutors, and ensuring victims have access to the resources they need. Together, we can bring hope to those in need and build a future free from domestic violence. For more information on domestic violence or to access resources, please visit the Maine Coalition to End Domestic Violence website at mcedv.org.
The Department of Justice funds essential victim services through its grantmaking. Grantees of OVW and the Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) run programs that support victims in the aftermath of domestic violence. There is help available, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), and the StrongHearts Native Helpline, 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483). In addition, OVW’s Resources for Victims and Survivors webpage lists national hotlines as well as state, territorial, and Tribal domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions that can direct victims to local resources and services, as well as opportunities to get involved.
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The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Michigan Joins DOJ's Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI in National Tax Enforcement Surge Exposing $490 Million in Tax Fraud
Western District of Michigan
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More than 30 U.S. Attorney’s Offices joined the Fraud Division in bringing enforcement actions against alleged fraudsters
GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN – The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Michigan today announced an indictment of Traverse City resident Christopher Robin Roehler as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, Internal Revenue Service, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation targeting tax fraud and related offenses. The Western District of Michigan was a key participant in this surge effort.
Between early September and today, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning 76 criminal defendants, including 31 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately $490 million in intended loss to American taxpayers.
U.S. Attorney Timothy VerHey said, “The Western District of Michigan joins the rest of the United States in fairly enforcing our tax laws. The tax offense charged against Roehler is especially galling because it involves taking money out of an employee’s pocket with the promise that the money will be turned over to the government as part of the employee’s tax obligation. Any employer who keeps that money for himself betrays that promise. We look forward to proving these charges in court.”
According to the indictment returned by a grand jury in the Western District of Michigan, Christopher Robin Roehler, age 65 of Traverse City, was the owner and manager of Rolling Farms Café and was responsible for collecting, accounting for, and paying over to the Internal Revenue Service employment taxes. The indictment further alleges that Roehler willfully failed to truthfully account for and pay over a total of $47,679 in taxes on 10 occasions between September 2020 and December 2022, that were due and owing to the Internal Revenue Service on behalf of the employees of the restaurant.
Failing to collect, account for, or pay over employment taxes is a felony offense. Roehler faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a fine of $250,000, and the costs of prosecution on each of the ten counts in the indictment.
This press release details one way in which this office has contributed to ensuring that all Americans pay their fair share. To see the successes of other offices, please see this press release.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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Southern District of Georgia indictments include robbery, arson, drug distribution, and firearms-related charges
Southern District of Georgia
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SAVANNAH, Georgia: Multiple individuals have been indicted by the October term of the federal Grand Jury in the Southern District of Georgia for a host of charges.
Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, announced the indictments. Those facing federal charges include:
- Ronell Campbell, 43, of Miami Gardens, Florida, was indicted for Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence.
- Woody Senat, 44, of Lauderdale Lakes, Florida, was indicted for Interference with Commerce by Robbery and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of a Crime of Violence.
- Henry J. Dover, 39, of Savannah, was indicted for Arson.
- Robert Jivens III, 38, of Savannah, was indicted for Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
- Tyrone Middleton, 43, of Ludowici, was indicted for Possession with intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon, and Possession of a Firearm During and in Relation to a Drug Trafficking Crime.
- Alexander Wallace, 32, of Savannah, was indicted for Escape from Custody and Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon.
- Taeshawn Jaquize White, 23, of Waycross, was indicted for Theft of a Firearm from a Federal Firearms Licensee.
Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The cases listed above have been investigated by the FBI, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and local law enforcement agencies. These cases are being prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Kyle Davis, Bradley R. Thompson, Matthew Breedon, Makeia R. Jonese, Jennifer J. Kirkland, and Special Assistant U.S. Attorneys Karl I. Knoche and Lauren C. Olsen.
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San Antonio Felon Sentenced to over 16 Years for Dealing Fentanyl in Schertz
Western District of Texas
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SAN ANTONIO – A San Antonio man was sentenced in federal court to 200 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, announced U.S. Attorney Justin R. Simmons for the Western District of Texas.
According to court documents, in 2025, the Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office began investigating Daniel Mendoza Jr., 44. Throughout the investigation, Mendoza advertised “cocaine, bars, and perk 30s” on social media and completed multiple sales of illicit pills laced with fentanyl and fluorofentanyl in Schertz.
Mendoza was arrested on Jan. 14, 2026. A search of his residence revealed Mendoza stored additional fentanyl, cocaine, and alprazolam in his kitchen. In his bedside table, Mendoza, a convicted felon with an extensive criminal history, stored a .40 caliber pistol and a magazine loaded with 10 rounds.
Mendoza was indicted on Jan. 7 for two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and two counts of possession with intent to distribute fluorofentanyl. A superseding indictment on March 4 added a third count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and one count of felon in possession of a firearm. Mendoza pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl on May 28.
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Guadalupe County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Marie Walker prosecuted the case.
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Panama City Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Attempting to Entice a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity
Northern District of Florida
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Tallahassee, Florida – Michael Ray Pennington, 60, of Panama City, Florida, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after being found guilty by a federal jury of attempted enticement of a minor. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, my office was able to secure a federal conviction and substantial prison sentence for this defendant. Keeping our kids safe from sexual predators, both online and in our communities, remains a top priority for my office, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases to achieve that goal.”
Court documents and trial testimony revealed that in November 2025, federal and local law enforcement conducted an undercover operation to identify and apprehend offenders who use the internet to sexually exploit children. During the operation, an undercover law enforcement officer posted a fictitious advertisement on a website commonly used for prostitution. The defendant responded to the ad and was informed by the undercover agent that he was speaking to a 15-year-old child. The defendant then expressed an interest in engaging in sexual activity with the child in exchange for money. Upon arrival at an arranged meeting location, the defendant was arrested. A search of the defendant’s phone confirmed that he was the person communicating with the undercover agent through both text messaging and phone calls.
“Those who seek to exploit children will find no refuge online or in our communities,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “Predators who target vulnerable children for sexual abuse will be identified, arrested, and held accountable. Homeland Security Investigations and our law enforcement partners remain relentless in protecting children and pursuing those who would harm them.”
Upon his release from federal prison, Pennington will be required to serve eight years of supervised release and register as a sex offender.
The case involved a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Emma Schwan prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit theU.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
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Oviedo Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Attempting to Coerce and Entice a Minor to Engage in Sexual Activity
Middle District of Florida
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Orlando, Florida – Rusbel Montoya Mandujano (32, Oviedo) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe to 25 years in federal prison for attempting to coerce and entice a minor to engage in illegal sexual activity. The Court also ordered him to forfeit his cellphone, which was used during the offense. Montoya Mandujano was found guilty by a jury on March 24, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, on June 25, 2025, Montoya Mandujano began communicating online and via text messaging with someone he believed to be a 14-year-old girl. The “girl” was actually a team of detectives working with the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office in an undercover capacity. After Montoya Mandujano learned the “girl’s” age, he initiated discussions of various sexual acts he wanted to engage in with her, and he made a plan to meet with the girl to perform the sexual acts. When Montoya Mandujano arrived at the meeting location on June 26, 2025, he was arrested by law enforcement.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman. The asset forfeiture was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Nicole Andrejko.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Needville trucker sentenced for transporting 10 illegal aliens in hazardous conditions
Southern District of Texas
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CORPUS CHRISTI, Texas – A 51-year-old Needville, TX man will serve federal prison time after authorities discovered 10 illegal aliens concealed inside his tractor-trailer.
Robert Martinez Jr. pleaded guilty May 20.
U.S. District Judge Nelva Gonzales Ramos ordered Martinez to serve 21 months in federal prison to be immediately followed by three years of supervised release. At the hearing, the court heard additional information regarding his prior felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance. In handing down the sentence, the court considered the dangerous conditions in which Martinez transported the illegal aliens. Two were concealed inside a storage compartment beneath four others, making it impossible for them to escape.
On March 9, Martinez drove a tractor-trailer to a Border Patrol checkpoint near Sarita, TX. During the inspection, law enforcement questioned Martinez about his cargo. He claimed he was transporting onions and agreed to a scan of the vehicle. The scan revealed anomalies in the tractor cab.
Upon further inspection, law enforcement discovered 10 illegal aliens concealed on the top bunk, beneath a blanket on the lower bunk, and inside a storage compartment underneath it. Authorities observed that those found inside the compartment were sweating and had flushed faces.
The illegal aliens identified Martinez as the driver of the tractor-trailer.
Martinez has been and will remain in custody pending transfer to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility to be determined in the near future.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations conducted the investigation with the assistance of Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Izaak Bruce prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigrants, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Multiple defendants indicted for immigration violations
Southern District of Georgia
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SAVANNAH, Georgia: Multiple defendants have been indicted by the October term of the federal Grand Jury in the Southern District of Georgia for Re-entry after Removal or Deportation, a charge applied to an illegal alien present in the United States after at least one prior removal.
Margaret E. “Meg” Heap, U.S. Attorney for the Southern District of Georgia, announced the indictments. Those facing federal charges include:
- Gerardo Bautista-Ramirez, 50, a citizen of Mexico, illegally in the U.S., apprehended in Bulloch County.
- Samuel Orozco Lopez, 37, a citizen of Mexico illegally in the U.S., apprehended in Tattnall County.
- Victor Lozano-Mota, 51, a citizen of Mexico illegally in the U.S., apprehended in Chatham County.
- Leonardo Arriaga Mendoza, 43, a citizen of Mexico illegally in the U.S., apprehended in Chatham County.
- Rubicil Perez-Valle, 37, a citizen of Mexico illegally in the U.S., apprehended in Effingham County.
- Ernesto Ramirez-Sierra, 34, a citizen of Mexico illegally in the U.S., apprehended in Appling County.
Reentry after Removal or Deportation charges carry statutory penalties of up to two years in prison, followed by referral to immigration authorities for deportation. If a defendant’s removal is subsequent to a felony or aggravated felony, statutory penalties can be significantly more severe.
Criminal indictments contain only charges; defendants are considered innocent unless and until proven guilty.
These cases are being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and local law enforcement agencies and are being prosecuted for the United States by Southern District of Georgia Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua Kyle Davis, Lyle J. Burnham II, L. Alexander Hamner, Kendall S. Huennekens, and Special Assistance U.S. Attorney Lauren C. Olsen.
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Missoula woman sentenced to 10 years in prison on meth trafficking, firearm charges
District of Montana
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MISSOULA – A Missoula woman who was trafficking meth into Montana was sentenced Wednesday to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Jennifer Lynn Stephens, 45, pleaded guilty in June 2026 to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. District Judge William W. Mercer presided.
The government alleged in court documents that Stephens was a known meth dealer in Missoula. Law enforcement had learned from multiple sources that Stephens was making two trips a week to Washington where her connection supplied her with 7 to 10 pounds of meth per trip.
Agents began tracking Stephens’s movements, and in February 2026, as she was returning from Washington, they pulled her over near Arlee. In the vehicle, law enforcement found several pounds of meth and a handgun. They searched Stephens’s house and, in a safe, found bags of meth, currency from the U.S. and Russia, gold coins and bars, and a 9mm pistol. Agents found another 9mm pistol in a safe in her bedroom and found a 30-30 rifle behind her bedroom door.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The FBI’s Montana Regional Violent Crime Task Force conducted the investigation.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
MEDIA ADVISORY – News Conference
Northern District of New York
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Federal law enforcement partners will hold a press conference announcing the arrest and extradition of a Russian National from Sweden for Conspiracy to Commit International Promotional Money Laundering, Conspiracy to Commit Outbound Smuggling, Conspiracy to Violate the Export Control Reform Act
WHEN: Thursday, October 15, 2026, at 4:00 PM (3:30 PM Media Arrival)

WHERE: James T. Foley U.S. Courthouse 445 Broadway Albany, New York 12207 Rm 218
WHO:
First Assistant U.S. Attorney John A. Sarcone III
FBI Special Agent in Charge Craig T. Tremaroli
U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Industry and Security, New York Field Office Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Carson
DETAILS:
RSVP to USAO Public Affairs: [email protected]

View the Original Release on justice.gov
Indian national pleads guilty in elderly fraud scheme while in prison
Southern District of Texas
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HOUSTON – A 32-year-old Indian national has admitted to conspiracy to commit mail fraud.
Sumit Kumar Singh admitted he participated in the scheme while serving a federal sentence for a previous mail fraud conviction involving elderly victims.
In 2025, Singh obtained a contraband cell phone while incarcerated and used it to communicate with others involved in the mail fraud and money laundering conspiracy targeting elderly victims.
As part of the scheme, fraudsters posed as PayPal representatives or federal government agents and falsely told victims they needed to send money that would later be returned to them.
One victim, a 93-year-old North Dakota woman, was instructed to mail a $45,000 check after being falsely told Attorney General Pam Bondi would help her obtain a new identification card and return her money.
From inside federal prison, Singh used the contraband phone to send messages to a phone number in India, including a photo of a bank receipt showing the victim’s check had been deposited in Edinburg.
U.S. District Judge George C. Hanks Jr. accepted the plea and set sentencing for Dec. 21. At that time, Singh faces up to five years in federal prison and a possible $250,000 maximum fine.
He has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The U.S. Postal Inspection Service conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Belinda Beek is prosecuting the case with valuable assistance from AUSAs Whitney Ohlausen and Lesley Brooks in the Northern District of Texas.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division which is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within federal benefit programs.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Houston felon convicted of trafficking methamphetamine and possessing firearm
Southern District of Texas
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HOUSTON – A 46-year-old man has been convicted of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
A federal jury deliberated for approximately two hours before convicting Eduardo Nevares Oct. 8 following a two-day trial.
At trial, the jury heard that law enforcement attempted to stop Nevares for an expired vehicle registration.
Nevares refused to pull over and led authorities on a chase that ended when he crashed through two chain-link fences and his vehicle stalled on a baseball field at an Alief, Texas public school.
He then attempted to flee on foot before authorities apprehended him.
Law enforcement discovered a .45-caliber pistol on the driver’s seat and methamphetamine and cocaine in his pocket.
A subsequent search of the vehicle revealed more than a pound of methamphetamine with a purity level of 96%, along with baggies, a scale, and loaded pistol magazines.
The defense argued Nevares was unaware of the methamphetamine inside a black duffle bag in the back seat. However, the jury rejected that argument and found him guilty as charged.
U.S. District Judge David Hittner presided over the trial and set sentencing for Dec. 29. At that time, Nevares faces up to life in prison and a possible maximum $10 million fine.
Nevares has been and will remain in custody pending sentencing.
The Bureau for Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and Houston Police Department conducted the investigation with the assistance of the Drug Enforcement Administration South Central Laboratory. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Charles Hagerman and Tanja Titre are prosecuting the case.
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Homeland Security Task Force Investigation Leads to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a Machinegun
Northern District of Florida
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Tallahassee, Florida – Omarion Laparis Rashad, 21, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to federal prison for illegal possession of machinegun. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This successful prosecution is another win for the safety of our communities. The Homeland Security Task Force continues to deliver on the promise that, by unifying our federal law enforcement agencies toward a common goal of eliminating the influence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations in our communities, we will achieve the safe, crime-free streets that our citizens deserve.”
Court documents reflect the Tallahassee Police Department executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence on November 25, 2025. Officers found marijuana, synthetic cathinone, and ammunition, along with a Glock .40 caliber pistol that had been converted to fire as a machinegun. A second machinegun conversion device was found in a commercial marijuana bag. The defendant gave a voluntary statement acknowledging his possession of the pistol with the “switch” and acknowledged knowing the switch made it a machine gun.
The defendant was a first-time offender and received 6 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
“This case reflects the importance of coordinated law enforcement efforts to address the illegal possession of machineguns and conversion devices,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “The Homeland Security Task Force aligns federal, state, and local partners toward a common goal of protecting our communities and holding offenders accountable. We remain committed to working together to promote public safety throughout North Florida.”
The case involved a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF comprises agents and officers from multiple agencies with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
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Great Falls pair sentenced to over 5 years in prison for trafficking fentanyl
District of Montana
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GREAT FALLS – A man and woman from Great Falls who were trafficking fentanyl together have been sentenced to prison, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Kylie Lynn Minardi, 24, who pleaded guilty in June 2026 to distributing fentanyl and conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl, was sentenced to five years and two months in prison, followed by four years of supervised release.
Zachary Taylor Cortez, 28, who pleaded guilty in May 2026 to conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, was sentenced Sept. 23, 2026, to five years and two months in prison, followed by four years of supervised release.
Chief U.S. District Judge Brian M. Morris presided.
The government alleged in court documents that law enforcement suspected Cortez and Minardi were distributing fentanyl in Great Falls. From June to August 2024, the Great Falls Police Department launched an investigation into the pair. With a warrant to track and search Cortez’s vehicle, law enforcement pulled the two over and discovered 97 grams of fentanyl in pill form and a digital scale in the car.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The Great Falls Police Department, the Russell Country Drug Taskforce, and the DEA conducted the investigation.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Illegal Opioid Distribution Conspiracy
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A Miami, Florida man pleaded guilty yesterday for his role in a conspiracy to distribute over 87,000 oxycodone 30mg pills.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Jose Llerena, 49, of Miami, Florida, conspired with others, including Olushola Yusuf—a pharmacist and pharmacy owner convicted at trial earlier this year for illegally dispensing over 300,000 oxycodone 30mg pills—to illegally distribute oxycodone to individuals who had no medical need for the drug. Llerena was a “patient recruiter” who paid individuals to pose as patients and obtain illegal and unnecessary oxycodone prescriptions from South Florida clinics and doctors. Llerena then took his recruits and their illegal prescriptions to Yusuf’s pharmacies in order to get the pills. Yusuf kept a list of Llerena’s recruits at her pharmacy. Llerena paid Yusuf cash for the drug at above market value.
List Seized by Law Enforcement from Yusuf’s Pharmacy of Purported “Patients” Llerena Recruited to Illegally Obtain Oxycodone Pills
Llerena then paid his recruits, usually via Zelle, for the oxycodone pills before reselling the pills on the street. Llerena was personally responsible for distributing 3,735 oxycodone pills.
Llerena pled guilty to conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance. A sentencing date has not been set. Llerena faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division; United States Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida; Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) Acting Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Miranda Bennett; DEA Special Agent in Charge Miles Aley, Miami Field Division; and FBI Special Agent in Charge Brett Skiles made the announcement.
HHS-OIG, DEA, and FBI investigated the case.
Trial Attorney Angela Benoit of the Fraud Division’s Health Care Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacqueline DerOvanesian for the Southern District of Florida are prosecuting the case.
The Department of Justice’s Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in federal districts across the country, has charged more than 6,200 defendants who collectively billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $45 billion since 2007. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with the Office of the Inspector General for the Department of Health and Human Services, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the Fraud Division. The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Elkins Woman Admits to More Than $400,000 in COVID Fraud
Northern District of West Virginia
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ELKINS, WEST VIRGINIA — An Elkins, West Virginia woman has admitted to fraudulently collecting hundreds of thousands of dollars in COVID-related unemployment benefits for several individuals, U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey announced today.
Leigh Ann Rinehart, 54, pleaded guilty to bank fraud. According to court documents filed, Rinehart participated in a scheme to fraudulently obtain unemployment benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic. The scheme involved unnamed individuals applying for and obtaining unemployment benefits fraudulently in the names of multiple individuals across several states, including Nevada, California, New York and others. Once benefits were approved, Electronic Benefit Payment (EBP) debit cards were sent to Rinehart’s address in Elkins. Those EBP cards were loaded with benefits totaling more than $440,000 from these various states for individuals whose identity was fraudulently used to obtain the benefits, regardless of where they lived.
Rinehart received the cards, activated them, and used them to withdraw funds, purchase money orders, buy cryptocurrency or other items which she then sent to other individuals participating in the scheme or deposited into her own account. Investigators determined that none of the named claimants resided in West Virginia, and none authorized Rinehart to possess or use their unemployment benefits.
More than twenty-four EBP cards were sent to Rinehart’s residence from June 2020 through November 2022.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Conklin is prosecuting the case. The Homeland Security Investigations Office of Inspector General, Department of Labor Office of Inspector General, U.S. Postal Inspection Service and Workforce West Virginia investigated.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
U.S. Magistrate Judge Michael John Aloi presided.
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Brevard County Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Methamphetamine
Middle District of Florida
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Orlando, Florida – Cornell Weaver (38, Cocoa) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Anne-Leigh Gaylord Moe to 20 years in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine. Weaver pleaded guilty on June 24, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, on June 12, 2025, Weaver sold approximately eight ounces of methamphetamine to a confidential source as part of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Drug Enforcement Administration. In total, Weaver distributed 220.7 grams of pure methamphetamine. Prior to selling the methamphetamine, Weaver had numerous felony convictions, including crimes of violence such as robbery with a firearm and resisting an officer with violence.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Titusville Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
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2 Mexican men jailed for illegally reentering U.S.
District of Montana
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BILLINGS – Two Mexican citizens who illegally reentered the U.S. after having been previously removed at least once were sentenced this week, First Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark Steger Smith said.
Armando Moreno-Moya, 32, and Agustin Balderas-Jimenez, 32, who both pleaded guilty in September 2026 to illegally reentering the United States, were jailed for just over two months and now will be deported.
U.S. District Judge Kathleen S. Lane presided over Moreno-Moya's sentencing; U.S. District Judge Susan P. Watters presided over Balderas-Jimenez's.
The government alleged in court documents that Moreno-Moya and Balderas-Jimenez were pulled over by law enforcement on Aug. 4, 2026, after Montana Highway Patrol troopers flagged the vehicle for having expired registration. Upon checking identification documents of both men, law enforcement learned they were Mexican citizens and in the country without the proper documentation. Moreno-Moya previously had been removed from the U.S. in March 2020; Balderas-Jimenez had been removed in July 2022.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case. The U.S. Customs and Border Protection conducted the investigation.
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14 October 2026

Zachary A. Keller and the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Louisiana join DOJ Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI in National Tax Enforcement Surge Exposing $490M in Tax Fraud
Western District of Louisiana
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Today, October 14, 2026, the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division), along with the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI), announced a nationwide series of enforcement actions targeting tax fraud.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Western District of Louisiana was a key participant in this surge effort. Between early September and today, the Fraud Division’s Tax Section and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country joined forces in the Department’s first-ever National Tax Enforcement Surge. This surge of nationwide resources resulted in prosecutorial actions against 76 defendants whose alleged and proven crimes intended an estimated loss of revenue to the federal government of more than $490,000,000.
“Tax fraud is not a victimless crime — it harms employees, honest taxpayers, and business owners — and the integrity of our American system,” said United States Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “Our Office will aggressively pursue anyone who steals from their employees, evades lawful tax obligations, and undermines the public’s trust in the fair and unbiased application of our federal tax laws.”
According to the Western District of Louisiana’s indictment:
• Defendant: Alicia Williams Higginbotham, 51, of Lake Charles
• Indicted: September 16, 2026
• Alleged conduct: Failure to account for and pay over trust fund taxes; failure to file individual income tax returns
• Alleged loss amount: Over $390,000
• Charges: 14 counts of Failure to Account for and Pay Over Trust Fund Taxes; four counts of Failure to File an Individual Income Tax Return
• Maximum penalties: Up to five years in prison for each count of the first charge and up to one year for each count of the second.
Higginbotham was arrested on Thursday, September 17, 2026, released on a $25,000 bond, and ordered to surrender her passport.
According to court documents, Higginbotham managed and was also a member of a home healthcare company operating in Calcasieu Parish. She is alleged to have exercised financial control over the business and to have been responsible for collecting, accounting for, and paying over federal employment taxes. The indictment alleges that Higginbotham failed to account for and pay quarterly federal employment taxes for employees for calendar quarters from 2020 through 2023. She allegedly withheld the money from her employees’ paychecks but failed to pay it to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) in an amount totaling more than $390,000. The indictment further alleges that for tax years 2020 through 2023, Higginbotham willfully failed to file required individual federal income tax returns.
The IRS – CI investigated this case. It is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Daniel Siefker, Jr., with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Denise Duhon.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla. Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer. The case number for this matter is 2:26-CR-00369-01.
To view successes of other U.S. Attorney’s offices across the country, please refer to this press release: https://www.justice.gov/opa/pr/dojs-fraud-division-irs-and-irs-ci-expose-more-490m-tax-fraud-national-tax-enforcement-surge
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
(337) 262-6704
[email protected] www.justice.gov/usao-wdla

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Western District of Oklahoma Joins DOJ Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI in National Tax Enforcement Surge Exposing $490 Million in Tax Fraud
Western District of Oklahoma
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35 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices joined the Fraud Division in bringing enforcement actions against alleged fraudsters
OKLAHOMA CITY – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Oklahoma today announced its participation in a nationwide enforcement effort led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, the Internal Revenue Service, and IRS Criminal Investigation targeting tax fraud and related offenses.
Between early September and today, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions against 76 criminal defendants, reaching approximately $490,000,000 in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“Every dollar stolen through tax fraud is a dollar taken from the American people,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “What we uncovered during this concentrated surge is only the tip of the iceberg. The Department of Justice is committed to expanding our investigations and exposing schemes designed to evade accountability, because there is no safe haven for fraudsters.”
“The Fraud Division is resolved to protect American taxpayers from criminal actors on every frontier of fraud, including tax fraudsters seeking to steal the wealth of America,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “Over six weeks, the Fraud Division’s Tax Section, 35 U.S. Attorneys' Offices, and IRS Criminal Investigation took action against over 70 defendants who sought more than $490 million from the Treasury. Today’s results send a clear message to fraudsters: those who intentionally lie to steal the money of the American people should expect to answer for their conduct in federal court.”
“A fraudulent tax refund comes directly at the expense of honest taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Robert J. Troester. “Our office and IRS Criminal Investigation are committed to uncovering these crimes and holding accountable those who turn false claims into personal profit.”
“Tax fraud is a crime that comes with a litany of victims. Criminal return preparers often steal the identities of the taxpayers that hire them, steal large chunks of the fraudulent refunds, and target the communities that can least afford it. Employment tax fraud steals from your personal contributions to Social Security, Medicare and other programs you thought you were paying into. Tax evaders simply want to enjoy their lives by having you and I pay for it,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher J. Altemus Jr. of IRS-CI's Texas Field Office. “We are taking back what they stole and taking away their freedom to deter them from stealing again, but that won’t stop every criminal. If you don’t want to be a victim, select your return preparer carefully, avoid the temptation for a fraudulent better refund and report suspected fraud on IRS.Gov.”
In the Western District of Oklahoma, ANTONIO WAYNE PITTS, 47, of Oklahoma City, has pleaded guilty to one count of making a false claim to the IRS. According to court records, on April 18, 2022, Pitts filed a form with the IRS falsely reporting that his business had withheld $163,637 in taxes during the previous year. Pitts’s false claim resulted in a refund of $132,037.
This press release details one way in which this office has contributed to ensuring that all Americans pay their fair share. For more details, please see this press release.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
West Palm Beach Man Sentenced to Almost 20 Years for Selling Child Sexual Abuse Material
Southern District of Florida
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MIAMI – A West Palm Beach man has been sentenced to 235 months in federal prison for selling more than 200 videos depicting child sexual abuse.
U.S. District Judge Aileen M. Cannon imposed the sentence on Kenneth Wayne Brown III, 21, after he pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of child pornography.
“Kenneth Brown turned the sexual abuse of innocent children into a business, putting a price tag on some of the most horrific crimes imaginable. Every video represents the exploitation of a real child, and every sale perpetuates that abuse. He will now spend nearly 20 years in federal prison. Let this sentence send a clear message: if you exploit children, traffic in their abuse, or profit from their suffering, our prosecutors and law enforcement partners will find you and bring you to justice,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern district of Florida.
According to court records, in November 2025, Brown used an online mobile messaging application to communicate with an individual he believed was interested in buying child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Brown provided the individual with a price sheet and sent a sample from his CSAM collection, which depicted a pre-pubescent child engaged in a forced sexual act. Brown then accepted $30 in exchange for more than 200 videos of CSAM.
U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge Brett D. Skiles of the FBI Miami Field Office made the announcement.
FBI Miami investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Katie Wilson prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-80208.
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West Monroe-Area Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 13 years in Federal Prison After K-9 Uncovers Methamphetamine Shipment
Western District of Louisiana
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MONROE – On October 8, 2026, United States Chief District Judge Terry A. Doughty sentenced Heath A. Foster, 30, of West Monroe, to 156 months in federal prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute a Controlled Substance, followed by five years of supervised release. Foster previously pled guilty to the charge on June 18, 2026.
According to court documents, investigators with the Monroe Metro Narcotics Unit (MNU) used a confidential informant in August of 2025 to conduct a controlled purchase of 57.2 grams of methamphetamine from Foster for $350 in West Monroe. In November 2025, MNU again used a confidential informant to purchase 58 grams of methamphetamine from Foster for $350 at a different West Monroe location.
Later that same day, MNU received information from a confidential source that Foster was returning to Ouachita Parish with approximately 10 pounds of methamphetamine. Louisiana State Police (LSP) conducted a traffic stop as Foster’s vehicle entered Ouachita Parish. During the stop, an LSP K-9 unit alerted to drugs in the vehicle. A probable cause search revealed a backpack on the front passenger floorboard containing almost ten pounds of methamphetamine packaged in six clear plastic bags.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Agency, MNU, and LSP investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Allison C. Foster with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 26-00036.
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Public Affairs
United States Attorney’s Office
Western District of Louisiana
[email protected] www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
Twitter @USAO_WDLA
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Weathersfield Convicted Felon Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Possessing Firearms in Vermont and Distributing Drugs in New Hampshire
District of Vermont
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BURLINGTON – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Vermont stated that on October 14, 2026, Marshall Gagne, 35, of Weathersfield, Vermont, was sentenced by United States District Judge Geoffrey W. Crawford to a term of 120 months’ imprisonment to be followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. On June 10, 2026, Gagne pleaded guilty to possession of firearms as a convicted felon and possession of controlled substances with intent to distribute them.
According to court records, Gagne was arrested in a hotel room in Claremont, New Hampshire on May 19, 2025, where evidence indicated that Gagne and six occupants were destroying drugs as the Claremont Police Department pried open the hotel room door with a crowbar. Gagne was carrying more than $11,000 in cash in a backpack with fentanyl residue on the shoulder strap and DNA evidence later revealed that he was armed with a handgun found in the hotel room. The next day, on May 20, 2025, Vermont State Police executed a search warrant at the home where Gagne was staying in Weathersfield, Vermont. During the search, law enforcement found in a camping van thousands more dollars in additional drug proceeds along with 13 firearms, including un-serialized privately manufactured “ghost” guns, a silencer with the serial number scratched off, and ammunition and gun parts, along with the box for the handgun Gagne was using in the hotel the night before. Gagne was previously convicted of a felony and was prohibited from possessing any firearms or ammunition. Gagne later coached a witness to lie to law enforcement by trying to claim that he had sold the camping van to a drug dealer who had subsequently been fatally shot. But DNA evidence found only Gagne’s DNA on the seized firearms, rather than the deceased drug dealer.
First Assistant United States Attorney Jonathan A. Ophardt commended the collaborative investigatory efforts of the Vermont State Police, the FBI, and the Claremont (NH) Police Department.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Dana E. Hill. Gagne was represented by Federal Public Defender Alejandro Fernandez.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
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USP Big Sandy Inmate Sentenced for Assaulting Prison Guard
Eastern District of Kentucky
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ASHLAND, Ky. – An inmate at the U.S. Penitentiary (USP) at Big Sandy, Malik Alleyne, 30, was sentenced to 30 months in prison on Tuesday, October 13th, 2026, by Chief U.S. District Judge David Bunning, after pleading guilty to two counts of assaulting a federal officer resulting in bodily injury.
On January 21, 2026, Alleyne became disruptive in his cell at USP Big Sandy. When staff ordered Alleyne to stop, he brandished a razor blade fashioned to a plastic handle. Once staff entered the cell, Alleyne attacked an officer – including punching, biting, and striking – several times, causing bodily injury.
Jason Parman, United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Kentucky, and Olivia Olson, Special Agent in Charge, FBI, Louisville Field Office, jointly announced the sentence.
The investigation was conducted by the FBI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelly Ridings prosecuted the case on behalf of the United States.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office – District of Kansas Joins DOJ Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI in National Tax Enforcement Surge Exposing More than $490M in Tax Fraud; Kansas Business Owner Sent to Prison for Employment Tax Crimes
District of Kansas
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KANSAS CITY – The District of Kansas today announced that on October 5, 2026, Ephantus Mwangi, a Kenyan national and Missouri businessman, was sentenced to 51 months in prison for willfully failing to pay over employment taxes to the IRS on behalf of the company he owned and operated. The sentencing was part of nationwide enforcement actions led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, Internal Revenue Service, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation targeting tax fraud and related offenses. The District of Kansas was a key participant in this surge effort.
Between early September and today, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning more than 76 criminal defendants, reaching approximately $490,000,000 in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“For years Mr. Mwangi took money that was supposed to go to the IRS for his employees’ tax withholdings and instead spent it on a flashy and extravagant lifestyle of luxury cars, mansions, and gambling. Now Mr. Mwangi has gone from staying in a big house to a four-year-stay in ‘the Big House,’” said U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser.
“The 51-month prison sentence should serve as a reminder of how serious of an offense it is to fail to pay employment taxes,” said IRS-Criminal Investigation Kansas City Special Agent in Charge William Steenson. “Those who choose to intentionally shirk this responsibility should worry they will be investigated, prosecuted, and imprisoned.”
According to documents and statements made in court, Mwangi, 48, a resident of Missouri, owned and operated True Payment Solutions, Inc., a Kansas-based business that sold credit-card processing services and card readers to merchants. Mwangi also owned True POS Solutions, Inc., a separate business that offered similar services.
From at least the third quarter of 2017 through at least the fourth quarter of 2018, however, Mwangi withheld employment taxes from his employees’ wages, but he willfully failed to pay over these taxes to the IRS or file employment tax returns. In total, Mwangi withheld $331,404.33 in taxes from his employees’ wages that he did not pay over to the IRS.
Mwangi also willfully failed to pay over employment taxes due from True Payment Solutions. Instead, from 2016 to 2019, Mwangi transferred more than $1.5 million from the corporate bank accounts of True Payment Solutions and True POS Solutions Inc. to his personal bank accounts. During this time, he spent more than $200,000 on loan payments for various luxury vehicles, including a Hummer H2, a Cadillac Escalade, two Range Rovers, two Mercedes, and a Lexus. He also used these funds to rent an 11,000 sq. ft. mansion as a second home in San Antonio for $13,000 per month and to pay for private school tuition for his children. Additionally, between 2016 and 2019, Mwangi transferred a total of $763,000 in funds to “TRUE PAYMENT SOLUTIONS, EA LTD,” in Kenya, Africa.
In total, Mwangi caused a tax loss to the U.S. government exceeding $1.5 million.

Mwangi was previously scheduled to be sentenced on April 27, 2026. He failed to appear in court on this date and remained a fugitive from justice for approximately six weeks, until he was arrested during a traffic stop. During the stop, Mwangi falsely identified himself to law enforcement by providing a false name and birth date.
In addition to 51 months’ imprisonment, U.S. District Judge Daniel D. Crabtree ordered Mwangi to serve three years of supervised release, pay approximately $1.5 million in restitution to the United States, and pay a fine of $150,000.
Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division and U.S. Attorney Ryan A. Kriegshauser for the District of Kansas made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case with the assistance of the U.S. Marshals Service and the Texas State Police.
Trial Attorney J. Parker Gochenour of the National Fraud Enforcement Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan J. Huschka of the District of Kansas prosecuted the case.
This press release details one way in which this office has contributed to ensuring that all Americans pay their fair share. To see the successes of other offices, please see this press release: “DOJ’s Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI Expose More than $490M in Tax Fraud in National Tax Enforcement Surge.”

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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View the Original Release on justice.gov
U.S. Attorney’s Office in the Northern District of West Virginia Joins DOJ Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI in National Tax Enforcement Surge Exposing $490 Million in Tax Fraud
Northern District of West Virginia
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MARTINSBURG, WEST VIRGINIA – U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey has announced the convictions of three men as part of nationwide enforcement actions led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, Internal Revenue Service, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation targeting tax fraud and related offenses. The Northern District of West Virginia was a key participant in this surge effort.
Between early September and today, the National Fraud Enforcement Division’s Tax Section and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country participated in the Department’s first-ever National Tax Enforcement Surge. The surge of nationwide resources resulted in prosecutorial actions against 76 defendants whose alleged and proven crimes intended an estimated loss of revenue to the federal government of more than $490,000,000.
“Every dollar stolen through tax fraud is a dollar taken from the American people,” said Attorney General Todd Blanche. “What we uncovered during this concentrated surge is only the tip of the iceberg. The Department of Justice is committed to expanding our investigations and exposing schemes designed to evade accountability, because there is no safe haven for fraudsters.”
“We have an obligation to the law-abiding citizens of this country to ensure that their hard-earned tax dollars are protected and distributed legally and that those that attempt to defraud the government with tax fraud are held accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew L. Harvey. “This surge shows the commitment of the Department of Justice Fraud Division, my office, and the IRS to taxpayers in West Virginia and across the country.”
In the Northern District of West Virginia, three Maryland men have admitted to a fraud scheme involving U.S. Department of Treasury checks totaling more than a million dollars. They each pleaded guilty to their roles in the scheme. They are:
- Tijuan Arrington, age 49, of Accokeek, Maryland
- David Walters, age 47, of Ellicott City, Maryland
- Gregory Dean, age 33, of Suitland, Maryland
The defendants worked together to obtain legitimate U.S. Treasury checks issued to real individuals or businesses, creating fraudulent companies with similar names, and then securing Employer Identification Numbers (EINs) through an Internal Revenue Service portal in Martinsburg, West Virginia. The three would use the EINs to open business accounts, deposit stolen checks, and quickly withdraw the funds before any fraud was detected. Some of the fraud was detected and prevented before the defendants could successfully withdraw the money.
The fraud totaled more than $1.1 million. Arrington, Walters, and Dean are each facing up to 20 years in prison.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Eleanor Hurney and Greg Jones and was investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
This case details one way in which this office has contributed to ensuring that all Americans pay their fair share. To see the successes of other offices, read the national release here.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Utah Announces Appointment of First Assistant U.S. Attorney
District of Utah
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SALT LAKE CITY, Utah – United States Attorney Melissa Holyoak announced that Jacob J. Strain has been appointed to serve as First Assistant United States Attorney for the District of Utah. Mr. Strain, a career prosecutor, has served as an attorney with the Department of Justice for more than 17 years.

“Mr. Strain has an unflinching commitment to the pursuit of justice,” said U.S. Attorney Holyoak for the District of Utah. “His broad experience prosecuting a wide variety of criminal matters makes him an incredible resource to the office. I want to extend profound thanks to Felice Viti who served in this position with distinction and whose decades of experience were invaluable during the office’s transition.”
As a career prosecutor, Mr. Strain has extensive experience working collaboratively with federal, state, and local partners. He has investigated and prosecuted many different federal criminal violations such as drug trafficking, robbery, identity theft, felony firearm possession, arson, threats, assault, bribery, perjury, contempt, obstruction, counterfeiting, immigration, antitrust conspiracy, and almost every variety of fraud (securities, health care, mortgage, tax, mail, wire, bank, procurement, program, etc).
“I am deeply humbled by this appointment and the faith that U.S. Attorney Holyoak has placed in me,” said Strain. “My only aim is to pursue justice, to preserve the safety and freedom of my fellow Utahns, and to fulfill my oath to the Constitution of the United States.”
Mr. Strain has previously served as Chief of the Criminal Division, a Special DOJ Attorney appointed under 28 U.S.C. § 515, Senior Litigation Counsel, Chief of the Securities Fraud Section, and Grand Jury Supervisor. He was hired through the Department of Justice Honors Program with the Antitrust Division, Dallas Field Office and worked as a Special AUSA in the Northern District of Texas, Dallas Division. Mr. Strain graduated from Brigham Young University, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Economics and graduated magna cum laude from J. Reuben Clark Law School, where he was an editor on the BYU Journal of Public Law, BYU Education and Law Journal, and BYU Law Review.

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Two Miami Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Roles in Fentanyl Trafficking Conspiracy
Southern District of Florida
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MIAMI – Two Miami men have been sentenced to more than 10 years in federal prison for their roles in a drug trafficking conspiracy that distributed fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and cocaine throughout Miami-Dade County.
U.S. District Judge Jose E. Martinez sentenced Jose Rodriguez Jr., 27, of Miami, to 121 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 10 grams or more of fentanyl analogues and 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
Juan Carlos Nunez, 27, of Miami, was also sentenced to 131 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 10 grams or more of fentanyl analogues and 40 grams or more of fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
“Fentanyl trafficking is deadly, and those who profit from spreading this poison through our communities will face serious consequences,” said U.S. Attorney Jason A. Reding Quiñones for the Southern District of Florida. “Rodriguez will spend more than 10 years in federal prison, and Nunez nearly 11 years, for their roles in distributing fentanyl throughout Miami-Dade County. Nunez also carried a loaded firearm while trafficking these deadly drugs. Their sentences reflect the seriousness of these crimes and our commitment to aggressively prosecute fentanyl traffickers in South Florida.”
According to court records, between January 2024 through May 2025, Rodriguez led a drug trafficking organization that distributed fentanyl, fentanyl analogues, and cocaine throughout Miami-Dade County. Rodriguez negotiated drug transactions with undercover law enforcement officers, set prices and quantities, and directed co-conspirators, including Nunez, to complete drug transactions on his behalf. Rodriguez received a sentencing enhancement for his leadership role in the conspiracy.
Nunez served as a distributor for Rodriguez, selling hundreds of fentanyl pills to undercover officers. In May 2025, Nunez delivered 300 fentanyl pills to an undercover officer while carrying a Glock handgun in his waistband.
U.S. Attorney Reding Quiñones and Special Agent in Charge José R. Figueroa of Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Miami made the announcement.
HSI Miami investigated the case, with assistance from the Miami Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Almas Abdulla prosecuted the case.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Southern District of Florida at www.flsd.uscourts.gov or at http://pacer.flsd.uscourts.gov, under case number 25-cr-20274.
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Trinitarios Associate Pleads Guilty to Participating in Attempted Murder
District of Massachusetts
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BOSTON – An associate of the Lynn Chapter of the Trinitarios and drug supplier to the gang with connections to a Mexican drug cartel pleaded guilty on Oct. 7, 2026 to racketeering and drug charges, including organizing an attempted murder that the Trinitarios undertook on behalf of the cartel.
Janoy Batista, a/k/a “El Viejo,” 47, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity, more commonly referred to as RICO conspiracy and drug conspiracy. U.S. Senior District Court Judge Nathaniel M. Gorton scheduled sentencing for Jan. 7, 2027. Batista was arrested and charged in February 2025 with other leaders, members and associates of the Trinitarios.
The Trinitarios is a violent criminal enterprise comprised of thousands of members across the United States. The Trinitarios adhere to a Magna Carta, employ an internal hierarchy to coordinate and execute violence, and undertake extensive efforts to maintain the secrecy of the organization and its members.
During the plea hearing, Batista admitted that he was an associate of the gang and that he supplied the gang with drugs from Cartel Jalisco Nuevo Generacion (“CJNG”). CJNG would ship large quantities of cocaine and fentanyl to Batista in Lynn, Mass. utilizing car transport trucks. Batista would supply members of the Trinitarios with cocaine and fentanyl received from CJNG.
Batista further admitted that in November 2023, CJNG tasked him with killing a local drug contact who the cartel believed had stolen a large quantity of drugs. CJNG indicated that Batista would be required to kill the drug contact in order to continue receiving shipments. In November 2023, Batista organized a failed murder attempt of the drug contact utilizing a Trinitarios member’s vehicle. During the incident in Salem, Mass., two shooters opened fire on the drug contact as he sat in his driveway, striking him multiple times. Batista picked up the shooters and driver involved in the attempted murder and drove them to an apartment controlled by the Trinitarios. The drug contact survived the incident.
In February 2025, federal racketeering charges were unsealed against 22 leaders and members of the Trinitarios. The charges were the result of a multijurisdictional investigation, which began in the aftermath of four murders as well as a series of attempted murders and shootings that took place in Lynn in 2023, allegedly committed by the Trinitarios criminal enterprise and its members. On June 9, 2026, additional federal racketeering and drug charges were unsealed charging 26 additional leaders, members and associates of the Lawrence, Haverhill and Boston Chapters of the gang. According to court documents, the Trinitarios have allegedly participated in five additional murders in Essex County since 2017, bringing the total of federally charged murders to 11, and the total number of federally charged defendants to 56.
The charge of conspiracy to conduct enterprise affairs through a pattern of racketeering activity (also known as “racketeering conspiracy” or “RICO conspiracy”) provides for a sentence of up to life in prison, five years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based upon the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and statutes which govern the determination of a sentence in a criminal case.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley; Jeff Grimming, Acting Special Agent in Charge of Homeland Security Investigations in New England; Ted E. Docks, Special Agent in Charge, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Boston Division; Essex County District Attorney Paul F. Tucker; Massachusetts State Police Colonel Geoffrey D. Noble; and Lynn Police Chief Christopher P. Reddy made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Manchester, N.H. Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Philip A. Mallard of the Organized Crime & Gang Unit is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Boston is comprised of agents and officers from HSI, FBI, DEA, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS, DOL-OIG and DSS, as well as several state and local law enforcement agencies, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Massachusetts.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhood.
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FIRST NAME
LAST NAME
DOCKET NO.
CASE STATUS
1
Ricardo
Bratini-Perez
24-CR-10310
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 120 Months
2
Rosnel
Polanco
24-CR-10263
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
3
Eric
Rosario
24-CR-10263
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
4
Robert
Santana
24-CR-10263
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
5
Yeferson
Vallecillo Cambar
24-CR-10335
Pending
6
Elvis
Trujillo
24-CR-10336
Pending
7
Abel
Severino-Reyes
24-CR-10373
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
8
Warly
Ruiz
24-CR-10380
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
9
David
Garcia
25-CR-10006
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
10
Tomy
Sanchez
25-CR-10007
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
11
Carlos
Ramirez
25-CR-10008
Pleaded Guilty
12
Justin
Alba
25-CR-10058
Pending
13
Darwin
Batista
25-CR-10058
Pending
14
Janoy
Batista
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
15
Aaron
Diaz Liranzo
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 168 Months
16
Israel
Garcia-Vasquez
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
17
James
Jimenez
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
18
Ery
Jordani Rosario
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
19
Westyn
Lantigua
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Sentenced to 135 months in prison
20
Kelvin
Liranzo Roman
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty, Awaiting Sentencing
21
Michael
Miliano
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
22
Enmanuel
Paula-Cabral
25-CR-10058
Pending
23
Luis Jeffrey
Santana
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 120 Months
24
Luis Enrique
Santana
25-CR-10058
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 136 Months
25
Angel
Santos
25-CR-10058
Pending
26
Wilving
Lopez
25-CR-10062
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
27
Leonardo
Espinoza
25-CR-10236
Pleaded Guilty,
Awaiting Sentencing
28
Isiah
Medina
25-CR-10302
Pending
29
Rodderrith
Peralta
25-CR-10302
Pending
30
Derek
Mercado
25-CR-10411
Pleaded Guilty,
Sentenced to 37 Months
31
Yordali
Yorro
25-CR-10058
Pending
32
James
Cabrera
25-CR-10058
Pending
33
Luis
Crispin
25-CR-10058
Pending
34
Angel
Castillo-Garcia
25-CR-10058
Fugitive
35
Osviallis
Serrano
25-CR-10058
Fugitive
36
Jervis
Almanzar
25-CR-10058
Pending
37
Enrique
Duran
25-CR-10058
Pending
38
Abigail
Arias
25-CR-10058
Pending
39
Justane
Garcia
25-CR-10058
Pending
40
Riky
Montilla
25-CR-10058
Pending
41
Jeremy
Felix
25-CR-10058
Pending
42
Jose
Martinez
25-CR-10058
Pending
43
Jayden
Muniz
25-CR-10058
Pending
44
Geovane
Fernandes
25-CR-10058
Pending
45
Jahir
Davila
25-CR-10058
Pending
46
Yanuel
Mejia
25-CR-10058
Pending
47
Luis
Fernandez Lopez
25-CR-10058
Pending
48
Victor
Diaz
25-CR-10058
Pending
49
Xavier
Puello
25-CR-10058
Pending
50
Joelfry
Cabrera
25-CR-10058
Pending
51
Richard
Pena
25-CR-10058
Pending
52
Hector
Mota
25-CR-10058
Pending
53
Jean
Delgado
25-CR-10058
Pending
54
Luis
Cabral
25-CR-10058
Pending
55
Yoldari
Tejeda Coronado
25-CR-10058
Pending
56
Martin
Taveras
25-CR-10058
Pending

View the Original Release on justice.gov
Three Mexican Men Charged in $74 Million Tax Refund Scheme
Northern District of Georgia
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ATLANTA - Gustavo Rojano Salazar, Gabriel Rojano Salazar, and Andres Huerta Rendon – all Mexican nationals living in the Atlanta metro area – were arrested today on federal charges for allegedly operating a massive fraud scheme that resulted in the theft of more than $74 million from the U.S. Treasury.
“These aliens allegedly engaged in a years’ long scheme to steal over $74 million from the American people by filing fraudulent tax returns,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “My office is committed to prosecuting and punishing those who steal or fabricate identities to plunder public coffers.”
“This indictment is the result of the tireless work of IRS Criminal Investigation special agents and our law enforcement partners, who uncovered an alleged scheme that exploited the tax system to fraudulently obtain more than $74 million in refunds,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Maisha Horton, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Through extensive financial analysis and investigative efforts, investigators identified individuals who allegedly filed fraudulent tax returns, laundered the illicit proceeds, and abused government programs for personal gain. IRS Criminal Investigation remains committed to working alongside our partners to protect the integrity of the nation’s tax system and hold accountable those who seek to defraud the American people.”
“This investigation was an excellent example of partnership between the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and other federal law enforcement counterparts across the country working together to bring down a large-scale financial fraud conspiracy,” stated Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “These arrests should serve as a reminder to criminals that law enforcement will continue to pursue them to preserve the financial integrity of innocent Americans.”
“Those who exploit federal programs and financial systems for personal gain undermine the public’s trust and impose real costs on American taxpayers,” said Ellen Johnson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI in Georgia and Alabama. “HSI will continue working with our partners to investigate these schemes and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the government.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Between January 2019 and the present, Defendants Gustavo Rojano Salazar, Gabriel Rojano Salazar, and Andres Huerta Rendon allegedly filed hundreds of fraudulent tax returns. To execute the scheme, the defendants allegedly obtained Mexican identification documents and used those documents to request Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (“ITINs”) from the Internal Revenue Service. After an ITIN was issued, the defendants allegedly prepared and filed fraudulent tax returns in the name of the ITIN holder.
The tax returns reported false tax withholdings and other information that resulted in tax refunds being mailed to P.O. boxes controlled by the defendants. In total, the defendants and other co-conspirators allegedly received over 16,000 tax refund checks. After receiving the tax refund checks, the defendants allegedly laundered the funds by cashing the checks at a north Georgia check cashing business, receiving bundles of bulk cash. In total, the defendants allegedly stole over $74 million.
During the scheme, Gustavo Rojano Salazar and Gabriel Rojano Salazar allegedly submitted immigration applications in which they falsely stated that they had never committed a crime.
On October 6, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Gustavo Rojano Salazar, 41; Gabriel Rojano Salazar, 49; and Andres Huerta Rendon, 43; all of Mexico, with mail and wire fraud conspiracy, mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit concealment money laundering. Gustavo Rojano Salazar and Gabriel Rojano Salazar were also charged with making a false statement on an immigration form.
The defendants were arraigned today before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Justin S. Anand following their arrests. The defendants were detained in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending further proceedings.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.ATLANTA - Gustavo Rojano Salazar, Gabriel Rojano Salazar, and Andres Huerta Rendon – all Mexican nationals living in the Atlanta metro area – were arrested today on federal charges for allegedly operating a massive fraud scheme that resulted in the theft of more than $74 million from the U.S. Treasury.
“These aliens allegedly engaged in a years’ long scheme to steal over $74 million from the American people by filing fraudulent tax returns,” said U.S. Attorney Theodore S. Hertzberg. “My office is committed to prosecuting and punishing those who steal or fabricate identities to plunder public coffers.”
“This indictment is the result of the tireless work of IRS Criminal Investigation special agents and our law enforcement partners, who uncovered an alleged scheme that exploited the tax system to fraudulently obtain more than $74 million in refunds,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Maisha Horton, IRS Criminal Investigation, Atlanta Field Office. “Through extensive financial analysis and investigative efforts, investigators identified individuals who allegedly filed fraudulent tax returns, laundered the illicit proceeds, and abused government programs for personal gain. IRS Criminal Investigation remains committed to working alongside our partners to protect the integrity of the nation’s tax system and hold accountable those who seek to defraud the American people.”
“This investigation was an excellent example of partnership between the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and other federal law enforcement counterparts across the country working together to bring down a large-scale financial fraud conspiracy,” stated Rodney M. Hopkins, Inspector in Charge of the Atlanta Division of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service. “These arrests should serve as a reminder to criminals that law enforcement will continue to pursue them to preserve the financial integrity of innocent Americans.”
“Those who exploit federal programs and financial systems for personal gain undermine the public’s trust and impose real costs on American taxpayers,” said Ellen Johnson, Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI in Georgia and Alabama. “HSI will continue working with our partners to investigate these schemes and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud the government.”
According to U.S. Attorney Hertzberg, the charges, and other information presented in court: Between January 2019 and the present, Defendants Gustavo Rojano Salazar, Gabriel Rojano Salazar, and Andres Huerta Rendon allegedly filed hundreds of fraudulent tax returns. To execute the scheme, the defendants allegedly obtained Mexican identification documents and used those documents to request Individual Taxpayer Identification Numbers (“ITINs”) from the Internal Revenue Service. After an ITIN was issued, the defendants allegedly prepared and filed fraudulent tax returns in the name of the ITIN holder.
The tax returns reported false tax withholdings and other information that resulted in tax refunds being mailed to P.O. boxes controlled by the defendants. In total, the defendants and other co-conspirators allegedly received over 16,000 tax refund checks. After receiving the tax refund checks, the defendants allegedly laundered the funds by cashing the checks at a north Georgia check cashing business, receiving bundles of bulk cash. In total, the defendants allegedly stole over $74 million.
During the scheme, Gustavo Rojano Salazar and Gabriel Rojano Salazar allegedly submitted immigration applications in which they falsely stated that they had never committed a crime.
On October 6, 2026, a federal grand jury charged Gustavo Rojano Salazar, 41; Gabriel Rojano Salazar, 49; and Andres Huerta Rendon, 43; all of Mexico, with mail and wire fraud conspiracy, mail fraud, and conspiracy to commit concealment money laundering. Gustavo Rojano Salazar and Gabriel Rojano Salazar were also charged with making a false statement on an immigration form.
The defendants were arraigned today before Chief United States Magistrate Judge Justin S. Anand following their arrests. The defendants were detained in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending further proceedings.
Members of the public are reminded that the indictment only contains charges. The defendants are presumed innocent of the charges, and it will be the government’s burden to prove the defendants’ guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.
This case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, United States Postal Inspection Service, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant United States Attorney Kelly K. Connors of the Northern District of Georgia and Senior Litigation Counsel Michael C. Boteler of the National Fraud Enforcement Division are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (Fraud Division). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within federal benefit programs.
For further information please contact the U.S. Attorney’s Public Affairs Office at [email protected] or (404) 581-6185. The Internet address for the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Georgia is http://www.justice.gov/usao-ndga.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Thirteen, Including Two Convicted Felons, Indicted for Trafficking Drugs from California to Kentucky and Money Laundering Following Homeland Security Task Force Investigation
Western District of Kentucky
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Louisville, KY – On August 19, 2026, a federal grand jury in Louisville returned a second superseding indictment charging 13 men and women with drug trafficking and money laundering offenses. Two of the defendants were previously charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner stated, “A seizure of over 250 pounds of methamphetamine is enormous for Louisville, Kentucky. Methamphetamine is an incredibly addictive drug that has ruined countless lives. I’m very proud of the important work being done by Louisville’s Homeland Security Task Force.”
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting of the Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Nashville, acting Special Agent in Charge Todd Strom of the IRS Criminal Investigation Detroit Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Robert J. Scott of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Louisville Field Division, U.S. Marshal Gary B. Burman of the of the U.S. Marshals Service (USMS) for the Western District of Kentucky, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police (KSP) made the announcement.
According to the second superseding indictment, Zelos Rashon Fields, 55, of California, Chauncey Lavelle Ransom, 62, of California, Charles Taylor, 53, of California, and Austin Redd, 29, of Louisville, were all charged with one count of conspiring together and with others to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine from May 2025 through March 13, 2026, in Jefferson County, Kentucky, and elsewhere.
Additionally, Redd was charged with three counts of distributing methamphetamine, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of money laundering conspiracy. Fields was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and having a prior serious violent felony conviction, and one count of money laundering conspiracy. Ransom was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and having a prior serious drug felony conviction, and three counts of money laundering conspiracy.
Meshaun Swan, 26, of Louisville, was charged with one count of distribution of methamphetamine. Charles Taylor, Demond Jackson, 54, of California, Dariecea Brock, 28, of Louisville, Iecia Taylor, 28, of Louisville, Raeshonda Presley, 33, of Louisville, Ebony Manson, 44, of California, Laquisha Beals, 32, of Louisville, Lajean Guess, 56, of California, and Kimberly Sowells, 45, of California, are all charged with money laundering conspiracy.
This indictment supersedes an indictment returned April 8, 2026, charging Fields with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, and a superseding indictment returned on May 20, 2026, charging Fields and Ransom with one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine.
Prior to the indictments, criminal complaints were issued for Fields and Ransom. The complaints alleged that in March 2026, law enforcement identified Ransom, along with Fields, as two individuals involved in the transport of methamphetamine to Louisville for distribution. On March 13, 2026, law enforcement executed search warrants pertaining to this investigation and recovered approximately 257 pounds of methamphetamine, which had been sent to Louisville by Ransom and Fields for distribution.

Fields and Ransom previously appeared before a U.S. Magistrate Judges of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on the underlying drug trafficking charges and were ordered detained.
If convicted of the offenses alleged in the second superseding indictment, Fields and Ransom face a potential minimum penalty of 15 years in prison. Charles Taylor, Redd, and Swan all face a potential minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. Jackson, Brock, Iecia Taylor, Presley, Manson, Beals, Guess, and Sowells all face a potential maximum penalty of 20 years in prison.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the FBI, HSI, IRS-CI, DEA, ATF, USPIS, USMS and KSP, with assistance from the St. Matthews Police Department, Los Angeles Police Department, Joint Regional Intelligence Center, Shively Police Department, and the Floyd County Sheriff’s Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alicia P. Gomez and Corinne Keel are prosecuting the case with assistance from paralegal Adela Alec.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS-CI, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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View the Original Release on justice.gov
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin Joins DOJ Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI in National Tax Enforcement Surge
Eastern District of Wisconsin
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More than 30 U.S. Attorney’s Offices joined the Fraud Division in bringing enforcement actions against alleged fraudsters
Milwaukee, Wisconsin - The United States Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of Wisconsin today announced the sentencing of Edward Kuhn as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, Internal Revenue Service, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation targeting tax fraud and related offenses. The Eastern District of Wisconsin was a key participant in this surge effort.
Between early September and today, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions against 76 criminal defendants, including approximately 31 newly charged defendants, reaching approximately 490 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
As part of this enforcement action, Brad D. Schimel, First Assistant United States Attorney for the Eastern District of Wisconsin, announced that on September 18, 2026, United States District Judge Byron C. Conway sentenced Edward Kuhn (age 62) of Hilbert, Wisconsin, to 13 months’ imprisonment for willfully failing to pay taxes.
According to court records, Mr. Kuhn was the owner and operator of Kuhn Salvage and Demolition based in Stockbridge, Wisconsin. Between 2020 and 2023, Mr. Kuhn withheld $194,403.56 from employees’ paychecks and did not turn that money over to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS). In total, from 2009 to 2023, Mr. Kuhn willfully failed to pay $868,175.95 in taxes he owed to the IRS.
At sentencing, Judge Conway noted that Mr. Kuhn had numerous pro-social characteristics, but that a sentence of imprisonment was necessary because of Mr. Kuhn’s repeated failure to pay the payroll taxes he collected and the other taxes owed to the IRS.
“This defendant stole from his own employees, but also from every honest taxpayer,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Brad Schimel. “Anyone who does so should expect to go to prison.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation recognizes the serious consequences of employment tax evasion, from the lost tax revenue to the United States government and to the loss of future Social Security or Medicare benefits for the employees,” stated Robert Kuszynski Special Agent in Charge of the Chicago Field Office. “Business owners are responsible for withholding and remitting those taxes, and failing to do so is a serious offense. IRS Criminal Investigation continues to vigorously pursue anyone who collects taxes and fails to timely remit those taxes.”
This case is one example in which this office has contributed to ensuring that all Americans pay their fair share. To see the successes of other offices, please see this press release [link].
Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation investigated the case, which Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary J. Corey prosecuted.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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For further information contact: Public Affairs Officer Steve Caballero
(414) 297-1700
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View the Original Release on justice.gov
The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Tennessee joins DOJ Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI in National Tax Enforcement Surge Exposing More Than $490M in Tax Fraud
Western District of Tennessee
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Memphis, TN – The U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Tennessee today announced tax fraud cases as part of nationwide enforcement actions led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, Internal Revenue Service, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation targeting tax fraud and related offenses. The Western District of Tennessee was a key participant in this surge effort.
Between early September and today, the National Fraud Enforcement Division’s Tax Section and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices across the country participated in the Department’s first-ever National Tax Enforcement Surge. The surge of nationwide resources resulted in prosecutorial actions against 76 defendants, whose alleged and proven crimes intended an estimated loss of revenue to the federal government of more than $490,000,000.
United States Attorney D. Michael Dunavant, of the Western District of Tennessee, said, “Income tax fraud schemes strike at the very heart of our federal government’s financial ability to provide services and protection for our citizens, and we will use all available resources to punish and deter such dishonest criminal behavior. The outcomes of these cases send a clear message: there will always be a consequence, a reckoning, for stealing from the American taxpayer.”
According to court documents and in-court statements:
- Lynnette Hogue, 45, of Memphis, pleaded guilty on October 13, 2026 to preparing false tax returns for others and failing to file her own tax returns. Hogue prepared and filed with the IRS false and fraudulent income tax returns for clients of the tax preparation business where she worked. These tax returns contained false and fraudulent items, which generated refunds the clients were not entitled to receive. Hogue also willfully failed to file her own tax returns, even though she earned substantial income from her tax return preparation business and was required to file by law. Hogue’s fraudulent conduct caused a loss to the IRS of $4.1 million. Hogue pleaded guilty to one count of willfully aiding and assisting in the preparation and presentation of a false tax return and one count of willfully failing to file a tax return. She is scheduled to be sentenced on January 15, 2027 and faces a maximum penalty of four years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Trial Attorneys Isaiah Boyd III and Matthew C. Hicks of the Fraud Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll L. André III for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case.
- Rebecca Gilley, 41, of Memphis, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on October 8, 2026 for filing false tax returns on behalf of clients of her tax preparation business. Gilley, who also went by the names Rebecca Green and Rebecca Maxwell, owned and operated a tax preparation business in Memphis. Gilley prepared tax returns for clients for the years 2018 through 2022 that included false education credits and sick and family leave credits. As a result of these and other false items, Gilley caused her clients to receive fraudulently inflated tax refunds they were not entitled to receive. For the years 2020 and 2021, Gilley filed more than 1,000 tax returns seeking more than $9.25 million in fraudulent sick and family leave credits. She often added these false items to her clients’ returns without their knowledge and rarely reviewed the final returns with the clients. In total, Gilley’s scheme caused a loss to the United States exceeding $350,000. Gilley was also sentenced to one year of supervised release and ordered to pay $289,908 in restitution to the IRS. She will also permanently be enjoined from operating as a tax return preparer. Trial Attorneys Caroline Pearson and Max Willner-Giwerc of the Fraud Division’s Tax Section prosecuted the case.
- Frank Jason Cole, 49, of Memphis, pleaded guilty on September 14, 2026 to wire fraud for preparing and submitting false tax returns. Cole was developed as a lead after Internal Revenue Service (IRS) investigative analysts analyzed tax filings associated with Cole that showed unusual filing activity of Form 944, Employer’s Annual Federal Tax Return, to include unprecedented refund requests. The Forms 944, filed in 2022 and 2023, made false claims for the Employee Retention Credit or “ERC.” Cole prepared and filed false business tax returns for 52 individuals, requesting more than $24 million in false refunds, of which over $19 million were paid out. United States District Judge Thomas L. Parker is scheduled to sentence Cole on January 21, 2027. Cole faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison, a three-year period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. Assistant United States Attorney William Bateman prosecuted the case on behalf of the government.
"These investigations reflect the outgoing efforts of IRS Criminal Investigation to combat tax-related crimes and protect the integrity of the federal tax system,” said Special Agent in Charge Donald “Trey” Eakins, Charlotte Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. "We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to pursue those who attempt to defraud the government and ensure that individuals are held accountable for their actions."
This press release details one way in which this office has contributed to ensuring that all Americans pay their fair share. To see the successes of other offices, click here.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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The District of Maine Joins DOJ Fraud Division, IRS, and IRS-CI in National Tax Enforcement Surge Exposing $490M in Tax Fraud
District of Maine
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PORTLAND, Maine: The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Maine today announced a sentencing as part of a nationwide enforcement action led by the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, Internal Revenue Service, and Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation targeting tax fraud and related offenses. The District of Maine was a key participant in this surge effort.
Between early September and today, federal prosecutors across the country facilitated fraud enforcement actions spanning over 76 criminal defendants, reaching approximately 490 million dollars in intended loss to American taxpayers.
“Tax fraud and related offenses are serious crimes that undermine the integrity of our tax system and shift the tax burden to honest tax payers,” said U.S. Attorney Andrew B. Benson. “We are very pleased and encouraged to be part of the DOJ’s efforts to uncover and prosecute these crimes.”
As part of this National Tax Enforcement Surge, an Auburn woman was sentenced on October 13, 2026, in U.S. District Court in Portland for filing a false tax return and interfering with the administration of federal tax laws.
U.S. District Judge John A. Woodcock, Jr. sentenced Rakiya Mohamed, 30, to five years probation. She was also ordered to pay $51,001 in restitution to the IRS.
According to court records, Mohamed filed false federal income tax returns for 2018 and 2019 and provided false records to the IRS when those tax returns were audited. Mohamed owned a language interpretation business called Reliable Language Resources. Mohamed reported the income and expenses for the business on her individual income tax returns and also reported false and fraudulent expenses for contract labor and office expenses. The IRS audited Mohamed’s 2018 and 2019 tax returns, and Mohamed provided the auditors with falsified business records to substantiate the false and fraudulent expenses.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
This press release details one way in which this office has contributed to ensuring that all Americans pay their fair share. To see the successes of other offices, please see this press release: www.justice.gov/opa/pr/dojs-fraud-division-irs-and-irs-ci-expose-more-490m-tax-fraud-national-tax-enforcement-surge
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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View the Original Release on justice.gov
Texas man sentenced for child sexual exploitation offenses against Central Valley victims
Eastern District of California
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FRESNO, Calif. —Thomas Henry Lopez, 51, of Spring, Texas, was sentenced yesterday by U.S. District Judge Kirk E. Sherriff to 30 years in prison for two counts of sexual exploitation of children, one count of distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), and one count of transfer of obscene material to a minor, U.S. Attorney Eric Grant announced.
Lopez was also ordered to serve a life term of supervised release during which he will be required to register as a sex offender and his access to computers, cellphones, and the internet will be restricted. Lopez was also ordered to pay $24,400 in financial assessments.
“Although the defendant lived an outwardly respectable life, he secretly exploited vulnerable minors through an online platform,” U.S. Attorney Grant said. “The offenses for which he pleaded guilty represent only two of many victims of his disgusting conduct. This sentence will safeguard the public and prevent the defendant from harming other victims. Our office remains committed to protecting children and to holding fully accountable anyone who sexually exploits children.”
On July 13, 2026, Lopez pleaded guilty to the charged offenses without a plea agreement.
According to court documents, between June and July 2024, Lopez contacted minors in the Central Valley through TikTok and continued to communicate with them through text messages and the encrypted application JusTalk. Posing as a 12-year-old boy from Texas, he persuaded the victims to create and send illicit videos and images. During these communications, Lopez also sent the victims sexually explicit images of himself and others. Investigators identified Lopez through internet connections used at his home and workplace, where he was employed at a multinational corporation as their principal wells engineer. On Sept. 3, 2024, Lopez was arrested as he was leaving for a work trip to Singapore. Multiple electronic devices were seized during a search of his residence.
“Thomas Lopez befriended and ultimately exploited vulnerable children who had no idea he was not the 12-year-old he claimed to be. We are grateful to the Kingsburg Pollice department for their professionalism and commend the brave survivors and their families for trusting us to conduct a thorough investigation to hold Lopez accountable for his depraved crime,” said FBI Sacramento Special Agent in Charge Brian Tosh. “This case is an example of the collaborative work the FBI is doing to identify and investigate predators who use the anonymity of online communication to exploit our nation’s children. Justice will find you, always.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Central California Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force, principally the Kingsburg, California Police Department conducted the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Gappa prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute those who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Texas Tax Preparer Sentenced to Prison as Part of False Tax Return Scheme
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A Texas tax return preparer was sentenced on October 7, 2026, to 14 months in prison for her role in conspiring to file false tax returns on behalf of clients.
According to court documents and statements made in court, from approximately February 2020 to October 2022, Sivagami Chidambaram conspired with a tax return preparation business owner and several of his employees to defraud the United States by filing tax returns for clients that contained false business expenses. These false expenses artificially reduced the taxes the clients owed to the IRS, which enabled them to receive refunds to which they were not entitled. Sometimes, Chidambaram added false business expenses on client returns by asking the client about work-from-home expenses, even though Chidambaram knew such expenses could not be claimed on their returns. In some instances, Chidambaram included false business expenses on clients’ tax returns before speaking with the client. In other instances, Chidambaram added false items to appease clients who demanded higher tax refunds. Chidambaram admitted to causing a tax loss to the United States exceeding $250,000 but less than $550,000.
Three other tax return preparers – including a tax return preparation business owner and two of his employees – were sentenced to prison in July in relation to the same scheme. One tax return preparer who admitted to filing false tax returns for clients was sentenced to home confinement.
Tax preparation business owner Mathews Chacko was previously sentenced to 50 months in prison after pleading guilty to conspiracy to defraud the IRS as part of the same scheme. Chacko admitted to causing a tax loss to the United States exceeding $3.5 million but less than $9.5 million. Tax preparers Anish Pillai, Subhala Suresh, and Mou Kundu were previously sentenced to 26 months’ imprisonment, 18 months’ imprisonment, and 18 months’ home confinement, respectively, after pleading guilty to aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return as part of the same scheme.
Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division and U.S. Attorney Justin Simmons of the Western District of Texas made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
Acting Assistant Deputy Chief Marissa R. Brodney and Trial Attorney Michael L. Jones of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section prosecuted the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the Fraud Division. The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Texas Residents Charged with Promoting Illegal Tax Shelter
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A federal grand jury in Dallas, Texas returned an indictment on September 22, 2026, charging four Texas residents with conspiracy to defraud the United States and other crimes for promoting an illegal tax shelter.
According to the indictment, Texas residents Duncan John MacDonald, Sarah Duren, Richard Ronald Cayce, and Thomas Weickgenant promoted and sold a fraudulent trust scheme that was used to shelter more than $1.5 billion of income, causing an estimated tax loss to the IRS of more than $200 million. The defendants allegedly sold clients the tax shelter for fees that often exceeded $100,000 by fraudulently telling clients that they could assign their income to sham trusts to defer paying taxes in perpetuity, all while continuing to enjoy the benefit and control over their assets and income. The defendants also allegedly encouraged some clients to backdate their trusts and file amended income tax returns claiming refunds for prior years’ taxes.
The indictment also alleges that Weickgenant, who allegedly filed false tax returns for tax shelter clients, obstructed IRS efforts to audit those clients. Weickgenant’s alleged obstruction included instructing clients not to speak with the IRS and encouraging at least one client not to comply with a U.S. District Court order to enforce an IRS summons.
The indictment further alleges that MacDonald and Duren, common-law spouses, evaded income taxes on the millions they received in fees from selling the tax shelter. To do so, the couple allegedly concealed MacDonald’s ownership of the tax shelter business and lied to federal investigators. They also allegedly filed false tax returns, used trusts to conceal their receipt of income, and paid personal living expenses through trusts and nominee accounts held in the names of third parties. Allegedly, Cayce, who owned the distributorship licensing the trust tax shelter, likewise received millions of dollars in fees, which he failed to report on his income tax returns.
Additionally, according to the allegations, MacDonald fraudulently solicited $2 million from investors to purportedly purchase shares in a business promoting the tax shelter by allegedly developing digital trusts. Instead, MacDonald allegedly used the $2 million to purchase luxury goods for himself, including a Rolls Royce Ghost (pictured below top with MacDonald) and the downpayment for a yacht (pictured below bottom). At the time he received funds from investors, MacDonald allegedly was under a court-ordered injunction prohibiting him from selling securities not registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.
MacDonald's Rolls Royce Ghost MacDonald's yacht.
The defendants are charged with the following offenses and, if convicted, face the following maximum prison sentences:
CountOffenseDefendant(s)Maximum Prison Sentence1Conspiracy to defraud the United StatesMacDonald, Duren, Cayce, Weickgenant5 years2–6Aiding in the preparation of a false returnMacDonald, Cayce, Weickgenant3 years per count7Corrupt interference with the IRSWeickgenant3 years per count8–10Tax evasionMacDonald5 years per count11–13Duren14–15MacDonald, Duren16–19Filing a false returnCayce3 years per count20–21Wire fraudMacDonald20 years per count22–24Transactions with criminally derived propertyMacDonald10 years per count

Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division and U.S. Attorney Ryan R. Raybould for the Northern District of Texas made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant Deputy Chief William Montague and Trial Attorney Max Willner-Giwerc of the National Fraud Enforcement Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Eric B. Chen of the Northern District of Texas are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the Fraud Division. The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Tennessee Woman Pleads Guilty to Preparing False Tax Returns
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A Tennessee woman pleaded guilty today to preparing false tax returns for others and willfully failing to file her own tax returns.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Lynette Hogue prepared and filed with the IRS false income tax returns for clients of the tax preparation business where she worked. These tax returns contained false and fraudulent items, which generated refunds the clients were not entitled to receive. Hogue also willfully failed to file her own tax returns, even though she earned substantial income from her tax return preparation business and was required by law to file. In total, Hogue’s conduct caused a loss to the IRS of $4.1 million.
Hogue pleaded guilty to one count of willfully aiding and assisting the filing of a false tax return and one count of willfully failing to file an individual tax return. She is scheduled to be sentenced on January 15, 2027, and faces a maximum penalty of three years in prison for aiding and assisting the filing of a false return and one year in prison for filing a false individual return. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division and U.S. Attorney D. Michael Dunavant for the Western District of Tennessee made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Isaiah Boyd III and Matthew C. Hicks of the Fraud Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Carroll L. André III for the Western District of Tennessee are prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the Fraud Division. The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Temple Terrace Man Sentenced to Four Years for Interstate Threats to Kill
Middle District of Florida
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Tampa, Florida – Andrew Nikhil Aiyar (28, Temple Terrace) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday to four years in federal prison for interstate threats to kill. Aiyar pleaded guilty on July 28, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence admitted at the sentencing hearing, between September and November 2025, Aiyar become frustrated with an American media company and began sending harassing and threatening messages to individuals associated with the company. One of these individuals was Alissa Walsh, the wife of political media personality Matt Walsh. Aiyar posted public social media threats to kill her and members of her family including, “I will tear your family to pieces before I shut up. Next time I’m in Nashville I’m finding you,” “I will beat your kids to death in front of you and your husband will do nothing about it,” and “When I get done hacking you to death with a meat cleaver I will turn myself in as a hero.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Temple Terrace Police Department. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Wheeler, III.
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Tallahassee Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Drug Distribution
Northern District of Florida
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Tallahassee, Florida – Timeka Griffin, 42, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to five years in federal prison for her role in a conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, distribution of cocaine and methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This local drug trafficking ring has been dismantled thanks to the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners and this successful prosecution by my office. Our citizens deserve safe, drug-free streets, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute anyone caught peddling deadly narcotics in this district to ensure we deliver on that promise.”
Court documents reflect that in July 2025, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Leon County Sheriff’s Office received information regarding the trafficking of cocaine in Leon County. Through investigation, law enforcement identified Edward Lee Cromartie and Griffin as a source of supply for cocaine and methamphetamine. Law enforcement also identified a suspected drug stash location, and upon execution of a federal search warrant at a storage unit shared by Cromartie and Griffin, seized approximately 1.6 kilograms of methamphetamine, along with multiple firearms, including a stolen handgun.
In March 2026, Cromartie was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for his role in the drug trafficking conspiracy, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute charges.
“Dealers of Methamphetamine in North Florida should know DEA is coming for you,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “Our agents will bring criminals who distribute this poison in our communities to justice.”
The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
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Springfield Man Sentenced to Twelve and a Half Years in Prison for Receiving Child Pornography and Producing Obscene Images of Children
Western District of Missouri
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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man, who was convicted following a jury trial, of receiving several images of child pornography and using Artificial Intelligence to produce multiple obscene images of children, was sentenced today to 151 months in federal prison by U.S. District Judge Megan Blair Benton. Judge Benton further ordered that he serve 25 years of supervised release following his release from federal prison.
On June 2, 2026, Jeremy Koppenhaver, 46, was found guilty of one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of production of obscene visual representations of the sexual abuse of children, following a two-day jury trial in the United States District Court in Springfield, Mo.
The evidence at trial showed that, on June 22, 2024, the Springfield Police Department responded to a coffee shop in downtown Springfield, after another customer reported that Koppenhaver, who was also at the coffee shop using their internet, was attempting to use AI to produce child pornography. The responding officers seized Koppenhaver’s laptop. Investigators conducted a forensic examination of the laptop and found approximately 19 images of child pornography and approximately 61 obscene images of children created using AI. All images of child pornography depicted real children.
The computer data from the obscene images showed Koppenhaver was using an AI image generation website to depict female celebrities as minors who were being subjected to sexual abuse. The data also revealed Koppenhaver was refining his prompts to evade the community guidelines of the AI website and was attempting to make the images more realistic. Investigators also located images in which Koppenhaver used photo editing software to edit nude images of Koppenhaver into photographs that depicted nude girls. Data on the computer also demonstrated that Koppenhaver had multiple web searches looking for child pornography.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Stephanie L. Wan and Randall Eggert. It was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Springfield, Missouri Police Department.
Project Safe Childhood
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc . For more information about Internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Springfield Man Sentenced for Wire Fraud, Money Laundering in Connection to Embezzlement of Retirement Funds
Western District of Missouri
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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – A Springfield, Mo., man was sentenced in federal court today for a fraud scheme that included wire fraud and money laundering involving the fraudulent embezzlement of his investment clients’ retirement funds.
Bob Hunter, 72, was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Megan Blair Benton to one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Hunter was sentenced to 48 months imprisonment, followed by three years of post-release supervision, payment of restitution in the amount of $373,230.50.
Hunter presented himself as an investment and retirement professional in Springfield, Mo., and promoted various retirement programs, including Supplemental Executive Retirement Plans (SERP). Hunter advertised SERPs to area executives to invest their money to build an investment retirement account that would be available to the investor during their retirement years. Instead of utilizing the invested funds for retirement accounts, Hunter instead used those monies for his own personal expenses and expenses completely unrelated to the administration of the SERPs.
In all, $373,230.50 in intended retirement funds were embezzled by Hunter from his clients. Hunter’s clients only became aware of his fraud after realizing he was misleading them with false investment reports that claimed they had money in their investment accounts that never truly existed, known as “lulling” letters or documents. These lulling letters and documents significantly delayed investors from reporting this fraud scheme to law enforcement and even attempted to conceal the nature and scope of his true embezzlement.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Patrick Carney. It was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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Sioux Falls Man Sentenced to More Than Two Years in Federal Prison for Failure to Register as a Sex Offender
District of South Dakota
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PIERRE - United States Attorney Ron Parsons announced today that U.S. District Judge Eric C. Schulte has sentenced a man from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, convicted of Failure to Register as a Sex Offender. The sentencing took place on October 6, 2026.
Joseph Paul Marshall, age 47, was sentenced to two years and four months in federal prison, followed by five years of supervised release, and ordered to pay a $100 special assessment to the Federal Crime Victims Fund.
Marshall was indicted by a federal grand jury in November 2025. He pleaded guilty on July 8, 2026.
Marshall was required to register as a sex offender and update his registration within three business days of changing his residence due to a prior federal sex offense conviction. After updating his registration to an address in Sioux Falls, SD, on January 27, 2025, Marshall moved from his registered address in March 2025 and failed to update his registration. Marshall failed to update his registration until his arrest on August 20, 2025.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the DOJ’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who exploit children, as well as identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit https://www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Marshals Service. Assistant U.S. Attorney Wayne Venhuizen prosecuted the case.
Marshall was immediately remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals Service.
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Shreveport Man Sentenced to More Than a Decade in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearm Sale to Informant at Liquor Store
Western District of Louisiana
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SHREVEPORT – On October 9, 2026, United States District Judge Jerry Edwards, Jr. sentenced Timothy Wayne Griffin, 52, of Shreveport, to 130 months in federal prison for Distributing a Controlled Substance and Possessing a Firearm in Furtherance of a Drug Trafficking Crime, followed by four years of supervised release. Griffin previously pled guilty to the charge on June 9, 2026.
According to court documents, on December 17, 2025, Griffin agreed to sell approximately 57 grams of crack cocaine and a firearm to a confidential informant. Griffin was observed leaving his home in Shreveport and traveling to a local liquor store where he met with the informant. He approached the informant’s vehicle carrying the narcotics and a 9mm SCCY CPX-2 handgun, which he exchanged with the informant for $1,850.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel S. Crichton with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Emily Favrot.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number CR-26-00049.
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CONTACT: Public Affairs
(337) 262-6704
[email protected] www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
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Shreveport Man Sentenced to More Than Six Years in Federal Prison for Unlawfully Possessing Firearm Used in Mass Shooting and Lying to Federal Agents about Firearm
Western District of Louisiana
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SHREVEPORT – On October 13, 2026, United States District Judge Alexander C. Van Hook sentenced Charles Ray Ford, 56, of Shreveport, to 78 months in federal prison for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, followed by three years of supervised release. Ford previously pled guilty to the charge on June 15, 2026.
“The significant sentence Charles Ford will serve for illegally possessing the firearm that he knew found its way to Shamar Elkins and then lying about it to federal agents provides some small measure of accountability for Elkins’ unthinkable crime,” said U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller. “While nothing can undo the devastation caused in this terrible case or restore the innocent life lost, this sentence sends a strong message that those whose actions put deadly weapons into the hands of violent felons will face serious consequences.”
According to court documents, Ford, a previously convicted felon, unlawfully possessed a Mossberg pistol between January 2025 and March 2026 after receiving it from an acquaintance. Despite knowing he was prohibited from possessing firearms due to the prior felony conviction, Ford admitted to possessing the firearm. Ford further claimed that he kept the pistol under the seat of his truck and knew that Shamar Elkins had taken the firearm from his truck. Investigators later determined Elkins used the firearm on April 19, 2026, to carry out a mass shooting in Shreveport that claimed the lives of eight children while critically wounding two women.
U.S. Attorney Zachary A. Keller for the Western District of Louisiana made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), the Louisiana State Police, the Shreveport Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney J. Aaron Crawford with assistance from Legal Assistant Amanda Morgan.
This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more at www.justice.gov/psn.
You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.
Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 5:26-cr-00188.

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CONTACT: Public Affairs
(337) 262-6704
[email protected] www.justice.gov/usao-wdla
View the Original Release on justice.gov
Shiprock Woman Charged in Fatal Shooting
District of New Mexico
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ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock woman has been charged with second degree murder for allegedly shooting and killing a man outside her residence.
According to court documents, on October 4, 2026, Letisha Begay, 39, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly shot a man following an encounter outside her residence in Shiprock, New Mexico. According to investigators, Begay told responding officers that the man had been drinking throughout the day and returned to her residence looking for his motorcycle. Begay said she returned home after receiving a phone call from her distressed daughter and found the man taking the keys to her truck.
A nearby witness reported hearing a loud bang before seeing a pickup truck backing toward another vehicle. The truck struck the vehicle, and witnesses found the man unconscious behind the wheel with a gunshot wound to his chest. Begay approached the truck and initially told a witness that the man had shot himself. She attempted to stop the bleeding while witnesses called for help. Responding officers attempted lifesaving measures, but the man died at the scene.
While speaking with officers, Begay allegedly admitted shooting the man but said she had not intended to do so. She directed officers to a pistol inside her residence and confirmed that it was the firearm involved in the shooting. Investigators also observed a shattered driver's side window with a small hole in the glass.
Begay is charged with second degree murder and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. She will remain on condition of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Begay faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and maximum of life imprisonment.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Ray Slatton is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Sewickley Woman Sentenced for Bank Fraud Involving Guardianship Agency Funds
Western District of Pennsylvania
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PITTSBURGH, Pa. - A resident of Sewickley, Pennsylvania, has been sentenced in federal court to two months of imprisonment, to be followed by two years of supervised release, on her conviction of bank fraud, United States Attorney Troy Rivetti announced today.
Senior United States District Judge Nora Barry Fischer imposed the sentence on Judith A. Hetzell, 64, on October 13, 2026, also ordering the defendant to pay $80,966 in restitution to her former employer.
According to information presented to the Court, between November 2023 and February 2025, Hetzell, the former business manager for a non-profit guardianship agency based in the Western District of Pennsylvania, fraudulently drafted checks against individuals’ bank accounts to which the agency had access as a provider of guardianship and other fiduciary services to the victims. The checks were drafted to cash and to Hetzell’s mother and deposited into two personal bank accounts that Hetzell controlled.
Prior to imposing the sentence, Judge Fischer stated that, while Hetzell had otherwise lived a law-abiding life, her criminal conduct was quite serious in that she stole funds from the accounts of vulnerable individuals who, for various physical and mental health reasons, required the services of a guardianship agency. Judge Fischer also observed that Hetzell’s conduct risked the viability of the agency for whom she worked.
First Assistant United States Attorney Carolyn J. Bloch prosecuted this case on behalf of the government.
United States Attorney Rivetti commended the United States Postal Inspection Service for the investigation leading to the successful prosecution of Hetzell.
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Serial Bank Fraudster Sentenced to over Sixteen Years in Prison
Southern District of New York
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United States Attorney for the Southern District of New York, Jamie McDonald, announced today that LAQUAN WILLIAMS, a/k/a “China Man” was sentenced yesterday afternoon to 200 months in prison by U.S. District Judge Laura Taylor Swain for orchestrating a series of schemes to steal money from banks by sending imposters into bank branches to transfer money from victim bank accounts or to cash stolen U.S. Treasury checks. These schemes involved WILLIAMS’s possession of over 1,000 stolen or counterfeit checks, his manufacturing of over 500 counterfeit state and federal identification cards, at least $1.8 million in losses to financial institutions, and possession of two loaded firearms. On September 4, 2025, WILLIAMS pled guilty to participating in a conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft. WILLIAMS was previously sentenced to 64 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Judge John G. Koeltl in May 2018 after participating in a similar bank fraud scheme, and WILLIAMS engaged in the charged conduct while on federal supervised release.
“Laquan Williams is a bank fraudster who has stolen millions of dollars from Americans by engaging in identity theft and bank fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Jamie McDonald. “For nearly two decades, Williams has been stealing money from innocent bank customers with forged checks, counterfeit identification cards, and stolen personal identifying information. Today’s prison sentence protects New Yorkers and should be a reminder that we and our law enforcement partners will aggressively pursue serial fraudsters and hold them accountable.”
According to the Indictment, public court filings, and statements in public court proceedings:
Between 2021 and 2024, WILLIAMS orchestrated a series of schemes to steal money from banks by impersonating bank customers:
Scheme 1 (May 2023 – June 2023): Between May 2023 and June 2023, WILLIAMS sent co-conspirators into various banks located in New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut to impersonate various bank customers and deposit checks that would transfer money from the victims into bank accounts controlled by members of the scheme. One of the victims was a prominent former federal government official. The defendant attempted to impersonate this victim while calling a bank and attempted to transfer money between the victim’s accounts, including by using the victim’s social security number. Total intended losses related to this scheme included approximately $827,568.33, and actual losses were approximately $43,361.28.
Scheme 2 (September 2023 – November 2023): Between September 2023 and November 2023, WILLIAMS sent another co-conspirator into various banks in New Jersey and New York to impersonate the owners of various small businesses. The co-conspirator would request that the banks transfer funds from the victims’ business bank accounts into new business bank accounts that were opened with very similar names and controlled by WILLIAMS. Once the money was transferred, WILLIAMS would withdraw the money as cash or transfer the money through CashApp. Total intended losses related to this scheme included approximately $218,123.22, and actual losses were approximately $87,761.08.
Scheme 3 (October 2021 – May 2024): Between October 2021 and May 2024, WILLIAMS participated in a scheme to steal money from the United States by depositing stolen U.S. Treasury checks into bank accounts controlled by the scheme. Members of the scheme recruited co-conspirators to impersonate the owners of the entities that were the payees on the stolen U.S. Treasury checks and to deposit the stolen checks into bank accounts that were controlled by members of the scheme and had been opened for the specific purpose of cashing the stolen treasury checks. For example, WILLIAMS participated in the depositing of a stolen U.S. treasury check in the amount of $13.9 million into a bank account that had been recently opened by members of the scheme at a bank branch in Massachusetts. Actual losses stemming from the scheme amount to at least $1,157,029.78, and the intended loss exceeded $30 million.
WILLIAMS’s Arrest (May 23, 2024): On May 23, 2024, WILLIAMS was arrested, and law enforcement executed a search warrant for WILLIAMS’s residence and vehicle. Law enforcement recovered, among other things: (1) approximately 27 seals and holograms for placement onto identification cards; (2) a hologram identification card press; (3) approximately 1,102 blank state identification cards; (4) approximately nine stolen U.S. Treasury checks totaling approximately $506,010.83; (5) approximately 1,015 additional stolen and/or altered checks totaling approximately $3.35 million; (6) approximately 571 counterfeit identification cards; (7) approximately 524 counterfeit credit or debit cards; (8) approximately 56 stolen credit cards; (9) approximately 478 pages of blank check stock; (10) multiple printers and laminators used for printing and embossing checks and identification cards; (11) a Glock 19 9mm semi-automatic pistol; (12) a LCP Ruger .380 caliber semi-automatic pistol; and (13) approximately 19 rounds of 9mm and .380 caliber ammunition, including approximately 13 hollow-point rounds of ammunition. Actual losses stemming from fraudulent transactions linked to this physical evidence was approximately $537,596.75.
WILLIAMS was on federal supervised release while participating in these crimes, after previously being sentenced to 64 months’ imprisonment by U.S. District Judge John G. Koeltl in May 2018 for participating in similar bank fraud schemes.
* * *
In addition to the prison term, WILLIAMS, 42, of Florham Park, New Jersey, was sentenced to three years of supervised release, ordered to forfeit approximately $1.8 million, and ordered to pay restitution.
Mr. McDonald praised the outstanding investigative work of the United States Secret Service and the New York City Police Department.
This case is being handled by the Office’s Violent Organizations & Crime Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ryan Allison and Andrew K. Chan are in charge of the prosecution.
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Seattle Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Child Sexual Exploitation Offenses
Northern District of Florida
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Tallahassee, Florida – Willard Lawrence Gibson, 48 of Seattle, Washington, was sentenced in federal court to 30 years in federal prison for one count of attempted sexual exploitation of children, one count of attempted enticement of a minor, one count of attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, and one count of distribution of child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.
U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This successful prosecution and substantial prison sentence were made possible thanks to the outstanding investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners who are zealously pursuing sexual predators, like this defendant, wherever they lurk to keep our kids safe from exploitation and victimization. My office is firmly committed to aggressively prosecuting these horrific crimes to ensure our kids are safe both online and in our communities.”
Court documents reflect that in July 2025, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and other state and federal law enforcement agencies conducted an undercover operation focused on identifying individuals using the internet to sexually exploit children. During that operation, the defendant began communicating through a social media platform with an undercover officer posing as a child, and the conversation later moved to text messaging. During their interactions, the defendant sent the undercover officer two images of child sexual abuse material. Further, court records show that, on multiple occasions, the defendant asked the undercover officer to produce child pornography images and send them to him. When the defendant was arrested in Seattle, his cell phone was seized as evidence and a subsequent search of the device revealed multiple child sexual abuse material images and videos. The defendant’s phone also contained other evidence confirming that he communicated with the undercover officer.
After serving his term of 30 years’ imprisonment, Gibson will have to register as a sexual offender and be on supervised release for the remainder of his life.
“Predators who use sexually explicit material to groom, manipulate, or prey on a child is committing a calculated and unforgivable abuse of that child’s trust and vulnerability,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “HSI and our law enforcement partners will pursue those who seek to groom, coerce, or exploit children online, bring every available investigative resource to bear, and we will work to ensure they face the full consequences of their crimes.”
This case was a joint investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Seattle Police Department and the King County, Washington, Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric W. Welch.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.
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Raynham Man Sentenced to over 12 Years in Prison for Armed Robbery of Cash Courier
District of Massachusetts
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BOSTON – A Raynham, Mass. man has been sentenced in federal court in Boston for the armed robbery of a cash courier in Swansea, Mass.
Christopher White, 39, was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Patti B. Saris to 154 months in prison, to be followed by three years of supervised release. In May 2026, White pleaded guilty to one count of robbery interfering with interstate commerce, commonly referred to as Hobbs Act robbery; one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery; one count of brandishing a firearm in the commission of a crime of violence; one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm; and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. In May 2024, White was arrested and charged.
In the early morning hours of Feb. 19, 2024, White and another individual, Steven Madison, were seen on video stealing a rental van from a U-Haul Moving & Storage location in Abington, Mass. Later in the day an armed courier who worked for a company that provides secure cash transportation services for licensed cannabis companies arrived at a bank in Swansea. carrying approximately $436,200 in cash for deposit.
The U-Haul van pulled up alongside the courier and White, wearing a mask and a camouflaged vest, exited the van and pointed a firearm at the courier before zip-tying the courier’s hands behind his back. Madison exited the U-Haul van and quickly loaded the cash into the vehicle. After trying to disarm the courier, the two men forced the courier into the back seat of his own car, pepper sprayed him and closed the door.

Surveillance footage showed that the courier managed to remove one hand from the zip-tie restraints while inside his vehicle, draw his firearm and fire four rounds in the direction of the U-Haul van as it fled the scene before calling 911.
After leaving the bank, the men drove the van to a nearby location in Swansea where they met with a third man, Quentin McDonald, driving an SUV. The men then transferred the stolen cash into the getaway SUV and fled.
Following a search of White’s residence in Raynham, zip-ties, a black mask similar to that worn by one of the robbers, a firearm, ammunition and cocaine were recovered. White has prior state convictions for larceny and receiving stolen property.
In June 2025, Madison pleaded guilty to one count of robbery; one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery; one count of brandishing a firearm in relation to a crime of violence; one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition; and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Nov. 9, 2026. In May 2026, McDonald pleaded guilty to one count of robbery and one count of conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery. He is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 3, 2026.
United States Attorney Leah B. Foley and Thomas A. Greco, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives made the announcement today. Valuable assistance was provided by the Massachusetts State Police, Bristol County District Attorney’s Office, and the Bridgewater, Brockton, Raynham and Swansea Police Departments. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Cheng, Allegra Flamm and John J. Reynolds III prosecuted the case.

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