District of Delaware
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Sussex County Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Prison for Transporting a 12-Year-Old for Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Miles Clark, 23, of Sussex County, was sentenced on August 27, 2026, to 12 years in prison for transporting a minor across state lines with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Clark, then 21, met the 12-year-old victim on Snapchat, exchanged sexually explicit messages describing sexual acts he intended to commit with the victim, and sent her sexually explicit videos of himself. About a week later, Clark drove nearly 200 miles to Pennsylvania, picked up the victim from a church near her home, and transported her across state lines to his residence in Delaware, where he sexually abused her. Clark knew the victim was a minor.
“This defendant deliberately took a child across state lines to abuse her,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “The sexual exploitation of children causes unthinkable harm, and I am grateful for our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners’ tireless work to keep our community safe from people who prey on children.”
“Miles Clark is a dangerous and depraved predator who used a popular app to target, groom, and abuse an innocent child. Assuredly, our community is safer today with him behind bars where he can no longer harm our children,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul. “I commend the FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force and Delaware State Police for their commitment to protecting children and relentlessly pursuing those who exploit them.”
Upon his release from prison, Clark will serve eight years of supervised release and be required to register as a sex offender.
The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case with assistance from the Delaware State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Claudia L. Pare and Kevin B. Smith 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 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-cr-3-MN.
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Three Alleged Members of Wilmington-Based 6ixers Gang Charged with Federal Robbery OffenseRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging three Delaware men with Hobbs Act robbery.
According to court documents, Jerome Pegram, 19, of Newark; Damire Lee, 22, of Wilmington; and Jeremiah Cunningham, 19, of Wilmington, are alleged to be members of the Wilmington-based 6ixers gang.The three gangmates are alleged to have participated in the armed robbery of an individual at a house party in Dover, Delaware, in March 2026. The gangmates forced the victim to hand over his property, striking him with firearms and their fists, and used a financial application on his phone to transfer money to themselves.
Pegram, Lee, and Cunningham are each charged with one count of Hobbs Act robbery. If convicted, the three men face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul of the FBI Baltimore Field Office made the announcement. The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force and the Dover Police Department investigated the case. U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin B. Smith are prosecuting the case.
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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 26-cr-129 (RGA).
The charges contained in the indictment and preceding criminal complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Convicted Kidnapper Who Put Hit on Victim Sentenced to 45 years in PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. (August 20, 2026) – A Seaford, Delaware, man was sentenced August 17, 2026, to 45 years in prison for kidnapping, carjacking, and cyberstalking. U.S. District Judge Richard G. Andrews imposed the sentence.
According to court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Ralph Harmon, 26, approached an elderly woman outside her residence in Seaford, Delaware, on January 13, 2023, when he brandished what appeared to be a firearm, placed his arm on the victim, and forced her into her vehicle. Once inside, the victim tried to escape out the passenger door, but Harmon pistol-whipped her to make her comply and remain inside the car. Harmon then left the victim’s residence and drove towards Laurel, Delaware, where he stopped along the way and forced the victim to give over ATM information for Harmon to use.
Harmon then crossed into Maryland, pulled over, and sexually assaulted the victim. Harmon forced the victim to lay face down in the front passenger seat, where Harmon tied the victim’s hands with a shoelace before continuing to drive. Harmon took the victim to a residential neighborhood where he forced her to a dock in the backyard. Harmon then shoved the victim, still bound, into the Wicomico River. When the victim surfaced, Harmon pistol-whipped the victim a second time with what Harmon later stated was an intent to kill the victim. After Harmon fled the area, the victim climbed out of the river and received assistance from bystanders.
Harmon met with friends and continued to make cash withdraws and utilize the victim’s ATM cards at local shops. Harmon and his friends then went to a tattoo parlor in Salisbury, Maryland, where law enforcement identified the victim’s vehicle. Harmon fled from police, and a black BB gun was recovered during his arrest.
While pending trial in the state of Maryland, Harmon utilized a recorded jail phone to attempt to have an associate kill the victim to prevent her from testifying at the state trial. Harmon also contacted the victim numerous times, including eight times around 1:00 am in one night. The victim left her residence out of fear ahead of testifying.
Harmon was convicted in the state of Maryland, c-22-cr-23-000054, before being transferred to the District of Delaware for federal proceedings in April 2024.
“This was a senseless, random, vicious attack on an elderly victim of our Delaware community,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “The Court’s sentence delivers justice and closure for the victim by holding the defendant accountable for all aspects of this violent criminal act; ensuring that he is not a threat to the community for the foreseeable future; and sending a message to any others who might terrorize our community that they will be held responsible by my office and our dedicated law-enforcement partners. This coordinated effort by the FBI, Seaford Police, Salisbury Police, Maryland State Police, and Wicomico County State’s Attorney’s Office ensured that justice was served.”
“This 45-year sentence reflects the seriousness of Ralph Harmon’s crimes,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul. “He violently attacked an innocent woman who showed remarkable strength in surviving the assault. Even after his arrest, Harmon kept trying to harm her to avoid accountability. Thanks to the swift and coordinated work of law enforcement, Harmon will spend the next four decades answering for his violent crimes.”
“The victim in this case was a long-term resident of the City of Seaford, who showed tremendous strength and courage throughout the ordeal and prosecution,” said Deputy Chief Tyler Justice, Seaford Police Department. “We are proud of the work done by our detectives and our local, state, and federal partners. The result is justice being served to someone who committed such a needless act of violence to a member of our community.”
“We are proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners to ensure those who commit heinous acts of violence are held accountable," said Colonel Michael A. Jackson, Superintendent of the Maryland State Police. “This case demonstrates the commitment we share in the pursuit of justice for the victim and her family.”
FBI Baltimore, Seaford Police, Salisbury Police and Maryland State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Samuel S. Frey and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer Welsh prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:23-cr-00050.
North Carolina Man Indicted for Possession with Intent to Distribute CocaineRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. (August 19, 2026) – A federal grand jury has returned a one-count indictment charging a North Carolina man with possession with intent to distribute cocaine two kilograms of cocaine.
According to the indictment, James F. Pyrtle, 55, possessed approximately two kilograms of cocaine—a distribution level quantity—in the trunk area of his vehicle while driving near Concord Pike. Also present in Pyrtle’s vehicle were several thousand dollars in cash that returned a positive hit for the presence of narcotics.
Pyrtle is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(B)(ii)(II). If convicted, Pyrtle faces a mandatory minimum of five years in prison and maximum penalty of forty years. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
“Stopping significant quantities of illegal drugs from reaching Delaware neighborhoods is a top priority for our office,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “Thanks to the diligent work of the Delaware State Police, two kilograms of cocaine were prevented from entering our communities. We will continue working alongside our state and local partners to pursue and prosecute those who bring illegal drugs across our borders.”
This drug seizure again demonstrates law enforcement’s commitment to holding drug dealers accountable and protecting our communities. Cocaine and other dangerous substances continue to affect too many lives,” said Colonel William D. Crotty, Delaware State Police Superintendent. “It is through strong partnerships and investigative efforts that we continue to make strides in this fight. The Delaware State Police continues to collaborate with our federal and local allies to disrupt the flow of lethal drugs and prevent them from reaching our communities.”
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Delaware State Police Superintendent, Colonel William D. Crotty, made the announcement. Delaware State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney M. David Tamubssi Jr. is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-110.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wilmington Drug Dealer Pleads Guilty to Possession of Two Firearms as a FelonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. (August 14, 2026) – A Wilmington man pleaded guilty on August 14, 2026 to illegally possessing two firearms as a convicted felon. U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Hall accepted the plea.
According to court documents, Randy Wright, 44, was caught with distribution quantities of marijuana, cocaine, and fentanyl during a vehicle stop in October 2024. A subsequent search of his apartment revealed a tight crawlspace adjacent to Wright’s bedroom, inside of which investigators found additional fentanyl, a loaded Springfield XD9 9mm semi-automatic handgun, and a loaded Taurus PT945 .45-caliber semi-automatic handgun. Wright admitted to possessing both firearms in furtherance of his drug-trafficking activities. He committed this offense after previously sustaining multiple drug-related felony convictions in the State of Delaware.
“Randy Wright is an admitted drug dealer with a concerning criminal history who introduced deadly drugs to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “Drug traffickers who arm themselves present an even greater danger. Together with ATF and the Wilmington Police Department, my office will continue to do its part to stop armed drug traffickers from harming the people of Delaware.”
"On a daily basis, our police officers work to remove illegal guns and drugs from our city streets, and our strong partnerships with the ATF and the United States Attorney's Office help to ensure that dangerous offenders are held accountable," said Wilmington Police Chief Wilfredo Campos. "We hope that this case, and the federal prison sentence that will follow for this offender, will continue to send the message that gun and drug crimes will not be tolerated."
Wright pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm as a prohibited person. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for December 10, 2026.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Wilmington Police Department investigated the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-4-JLH.
Maryland Man Arrested for Illicit Sexual Conduct with 12-Year-Old Delaware ResidentRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Maryland man was arrested on August 11, 2026, on charges of coercion and enticement of a minor and for traveling to Delaware to engage in illicit sexual conduct.
As alleged in court documents, Majdi Jones, 22, communicated with a 12-year-old victim over Snapchat, exchanged nude photographs with the victim, and arranged to meet for sex. Through those communications, Jones learned the victim was a minor, lied about his own age, and nevertheless arranged to meet the victim in a Delaware park in the early hours of the morning. Jones drove from Maryland into Delaware, picked up the victim near her house, drove her to the park, and engaged in sexual conduct alleged to constitute rape in the fourth degree under Delaware law. Investigators found a used condom in the back seat of the car in which Jones raped his victim.
Jones is charged with one count of coercion and enticement of a minor, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b), and one count of travel with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2423(b). If convicted, Jones faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace made the announcement. The FBI Baltimore Field Office’s Wilmington Resident Agency and the New Castle County Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bryan C. Williamson and Claudia L. Pare are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 26-mj-423.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Smyrna Man Pleads Guilty to Cocaine Distribution and Illegal Firearm PossessionRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Smyrna man pleaded guilty yesterday to distributing cocaine and illegally possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly accepted the plea.
According to court documents, Roger Bleen, 43, sold approximately 273 grams of cocaine on October 14, 2025, outside a convenience store in Kent County. That sale was part of a months‑long pattern of trafficking in which Bleen sold cocaine on multiple occasions. Court documents indicate that Bleen operated within a larger cocaine‑ and fentanyl-trafficking organization orchestrated in part by associate Nugi Nichols, who pleaded guilty to cocaine distribution on June 1, 2026. As part of that broader investigation, a search warrant executed at Bleen’s Smyrna residence found a loaded 9mm Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ handgun inside Bleen’s bedroom closet. As a previously convicted felon, Bleen was prohibited from possessing firearms.
“Drug traffickers who arm themselves compound the danger they pose to our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “Bleen sold cocaine over many months as part of a broader drug-trafficking network. Today’s plea—made possible through the teamwork of the DEA, FBI, and the Dover Police Department—reflects our commitment to stop the flow of drugs into Delaware and to hold felons accountable when they choose to possess guns.”
“This investigation removed an armed drug trafficker from our community,” said DEA Philadelphia Special Agent in Charge Timothy S. Flaherty. “The threat posed by these organizations has never been higher, but law enforcement at every level is rising to meet it. Today’s plea is another example of the exceptional partnerships between the DEA, FBI, Dover Police Department, and United States Attorney’s Office.”
“Roger Bleen profited from selling cocaine in our community,” said FBI Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul. “Today’s guilty plea reflects the seriousness of Bleen’s crimes and the harm his drug trafficking inflicted on Delaware. The FBI works diligently with our law enforcement partners to make our communities safer by dismantling drug trafficking organizations and holding all those involved accountable.”
“Bleen, Nichols, and every other predator trafficking drugs into our communities are a direct threat to our families, our visitors, and our most vulnerable residents,” said Dover Police Department Chief Thomas A. Johnson, Jr. “They profit from addiction and misery without regard for the lives they destroy. The Dover Police Department and their great investigators will continue working alongside our state and federal partners to identify, investigate, and bring these offenders to justice. We celebrate the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office in this case and hope that anyone else thinking about delivering poison to Dover, thinks twice, as we will never tolerate the lethal combination of guns and drugs in our city.”
Bleen pleaded guilty to distribution of cocaine and possession of a firearm as a prohibited person. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on the drug charge and 15 years in prison on the firearm charge. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for December 21, 2026.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Dover Police Department investigated the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-81-CFC.
Brooklyn Man Sentenced to 78 Months for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Brooklyn man has been sentenced to 78 months in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for trafficking multiple controlled substances—including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and heroin. U.S. District Judge Gregory B. Williams imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Daniel Fernandez, 45, was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by the New Castle County Police Department (NCCPD) on June 25, 2025. A drug-sniffing canine alerted to the presence of controlled substances in the car. Officers of the NCCPD searched the vehicle and discovered over 9 kilograms of cocaine, over 3 pounds of methamphetamine, and over a half pound each of heroin and fentanyl. Fernandez admitted that the drugs were his and that he had travelled from New York City in order to deliver them to a customer in Delaware.
“Daniel Fernandez tried to smuggle substantial quantities of street drugs from his State into ours,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “Those drugs could have ruined the lives of countless Delawareans. But due to the vigilance of our partners at the New Castle County Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, those drugs are off the street, and Mr. Fernandez will be spending more than five years in federal prison. This case exemplifies our tireless efforts to protect Delaware from the scourge of drug trafficking.”
“This case highlights both the ongoing threat that drug traffickers pose to our communities and the outstanding work of law enforcement at every level to meet that threat,” said DEA Dover Group Supervisor Jason Kaunas. “A significant amount of dangerous drugs were kept off the streets due to the dedication and collaboration between DEA, New Castle County PD, and the USAO. This sentence sends a powerful message and a warning to others that would seek to do harm.”
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 26-cr-04-GBW.
Dover Man Indicted as Armed Career Criminal for Federal Gun and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a Dover man with unlawfully possessing fentanyl, cocaine, and a handgun.
According to the indictment, Romone Allen, 43, stored a loaded 9mm pistol and distribution quantities of fentanyl and cocaine inside an open electronic safe in a Dover hotel room he was renting, along with cash and a digital scale. The indictment alleges that Allen committed these offenses after previously being convicted of three serious drug offenses dating back to 2001.
Allen is charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. If convicted, Allen faces a mandatory minimum of 20 years in prison and a maximum possible sentence of life. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace, FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, and Dover Police Department Chief Thomas Johnson, Jr., and made the announcement. The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force and the Dover Police Department investigated the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-109-RGA.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Two Companies Agree to Pay over $2.3 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Paycheck Protection Program LoansRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Mobile Programming LLC (“Mobile Programming”), a Wyoming corporation with its principal place of business in California, and A-1 Technology, Inc. (“A-1 Technology”), a Delaware corporation with its principal place of business in New York, have agreed to pay $2,353,391.06 to resolve allegations that they improperly obtained Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loans from the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) for which they were not eligible.
PPP was an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, and administered by the SBA. The program was created to support small businesses and to help them continue to pay employees and meet other business expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. A second round of loans was authorized in early 2021. To be eligible for these Second Draw PPP loans, a business was required to certify that it had no more than 300 employees, including employees of all domestic and foreign affiliates.
Mobile Programming applied for and received a $1,326,949 Second Draw PPP loan. A-1 Technology applied for and received a $184,287 Second Draw PPP loan. On their respective Second Draw loan applications, Mobile Programming and A-1 Technology certified that they, together with their affiliates, had fewer than 300 employees. Mobile Programming and A-1 Technology subsequently applied for (and ultimately received) forgiveness of their Second Draw loans. However, Mobile Programming and A-1 Technology, together with their domestic and foreign affiliates, had more than 300 employees.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace announced the settlement. Assistant United States Attorney Claudia L. Pare handled the case.
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party—known as a relator—can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. In this case, the relator will receive a share of the settlement.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. The settlement agreement is attached to this press release. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-cv-367-GBW.
The claims resolved by the settlement are merely allegations. There has been no determination of liability.
Wilmington Man Indicted for Fentanyl Found in Storage UnitRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a Wilmington man with possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl.
According to the indictment, Rangi Knight, 52, stored approximately 183 grams of fentanyl packaged for distribution inside a Wilmington storage unit he leased. Officers recovered about 1,300 stamped glassine bags of fentanyl, additional bulk fentanyl, and drug-trafficking paraphernalia, including digital scales and packaging materials. Court documents indicate that Knight was on federal supervised release at the time of this offense following a 2023 conviction for passport fraud.
Knight is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 40 grams or more of fentanyl. If convicted, Knight faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years in prison and a maximum possible sentence of 40 years. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, FBI Baltimore, made the announcement. The FBI and the Delaware State Police investigated the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-117.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Dover Man Indicted for Possessing Privately Manufactured “Ghost Gun”Read the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a Dover man with unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon.
According to the indictment, Joe Murray, 35, possessed a privately made, unserialized Polymer80 9mm semiautomatic handgun—otherwise known as a “ghost gun”—loaded with a magazine containing 16 rounds of ammunition. Officers also recovered an additional bullet from Murray’s pocket.
Murray is charged with one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person. If convicted, Murray faces a maximum possible sentence of 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), made the announcement. ATF and the Dover Police Department investigated the case.
This prosecution is 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-119-GBW.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Wilmington Man Indicted for Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a Wilmington man with possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person.
According to the indictment, Isiah Woodland, 30, possessed a Polymer 80 handgun and twelve rounds of ammunition during the month of February 2026. Woodland is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Woodland is charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. If convicted, Woodland faces a maximum of 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace, Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Wilfredo Campos, Wilmington Police Department (WPD), made the announcement. ATF and WPD investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin B. Smith is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-00118-RGA.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Milford Man Indicted for Federal Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury has returned an indictment charging a Milford man with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
According to court documents, Jayceir Fullman, 21, on February 9, 2026, entered the apartment of an acquaintance without permission and took a Glock handgun. Fullman is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms.
Fullman is charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. If convicted, Fullman faces a maximum of 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace, Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), and Chief Cecilia Ashe, Milford Police Department (MPD), made the announcement. ATF and MPD investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin B. Smith is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-00086-CFC.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Lewes Man Sentenced to 70 Months for Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. (July 16, 2026) – A Lewes man was sentenced July 16, 2026, to 70 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, in violation of 21 U.S.C. § 841(a)(1) and (b)(1)(C). U.S. District Judge Hall imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Brandon Barnes, 38, fled from Lewes Police during a car stop in July 2024. Barnes lost control of his car and struck a utility box before fleeing on foot. Once police caught Barnes, they found numerous blue pills marked “M30” scattered across the floor and driver’s seat of the car, as well as blue pills between the car and where police arrested Barnes. Police ultimately recovered over 500 pressed fentanyl pills.“Fentanyl kills,” stated U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “But Brandon Barnes did not let that stop him from peddling the deadly substance to people in the throes of addiction. He will now be spending more than five years in federal prison. That is a just sentence, and we thank our dedicated law enforcement partners at the DEA for taking yet another dangerous drug dealer off the streets.”
Philadelphia Division Special Agent in Charge Timothy S. Flaherty said, “Today another fentanyl distributor was held accountable for threatening our local communities. Brandon Barnes sought to profit from causing harm to others. Thanks to the dedicated efforts of DEA, the Lewes Police Department, and the United States Attorney’s Office, District of Delaware, he will instead serve more than five years in federal prison.”
"Whether you live in large cities or small beach towns like Lewes, those that sell illegal drugs remain a leading cause of crime and will always be a focus of the Lewes Police Department,” said said Thomas Spell, Chief of Police of the Lewes Police Department. “We want to thank the Drug Enforcement Agency and the U.S. Attorney's Office for their continued partnership in assisting local law enforcement and holding drug dealers like Brandon Barnes accountable for his crimes against our community."
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace made the announcement. The Drug Enforcement Agency, with assistance from Lewes Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill, Samuel S. Frey, and M. David Tambussi Jr. prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District
of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District
Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 24-cr-122.Dover Man Sentenced to 147 Months for Gun, Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Dover man was sentenced to 147 months in prison for drug dealing and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Hall imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Kyle Scott, 38, was released from state prison on a prior drug conviction in early 2021. Two years later, law enforcement received information that Scott was again dealing drugs. Law enforcement began an investigation that included multiple drug purchases from Scott at the Dover home that he shared with his parents and minor daughter. In January 2024, law enforcement executed a warrant to search the home and discovered 307 grams of fentanyl and 757 grams of methamphetamine, as well as three loaded firearms, in Scott’s basement bedroom. Scott ultimately pleaded guilty to Possession with Intent to Distribute 40 grams or more of Fentanyl and Possession of a Firearm in Furtherance of Drug Trafficking. This is Scott’s fourth conviction for drug dealing.
“Fentanyl kills,” stated U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “But Kyle Scott did not let that stop him from peddling the deadly substance to people in the throes of addiction. This armed, career drug dealer will now be spending more than ten years in federal prison. That is a just sentence, and we thank our dedicated law enforcement partners at the DEA and DSP for taking yet another dangerous drug dealer off the streets.”
“Scott’s sentence sends a powerful message; justice will prevail against those who threaten our communities,” stated DEA Philadelphia Field Division Special Agent in Charge Thomas Hodnett. “This victory is a testament to the commitment and collaboration between DEA and the Delaware State Police.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Delaware State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 24-cr-00036.
South Dakota Man Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity Theft and Obtaining Drugs by FraudRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Benjamin L. Wallace, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware, announced today that a South Dakota man has pleaded guilty to ordering thousands of opioid pills by stealing the identity of medical professionals with whom he worked. U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Hall accepted the plea.
According to court documents, Ty Mauldin, 35, used his access as a medical biller and credentialer—which allowed him to obtain medical professionals’ licensure information—to order himself thousands of opioid pills through wholesale pharmaceutical suppliers, all unbeknownst to the medical professionals who were the victims of his scheme.
Mauldin also exploited this access to electronic medical records by falsifying his own health information so that he could pose as a cancer patient and thereby obtain pain management services, including the installation of an intrathecal pain pump and the prescription of opioids, all of which were paid for by his private health insurer.
Additionally, Mauldin represented himself as a certified health professional to his colleagues and patients, including holding himself out as a licensed nurse. Based on these false representations, Mauldin convinced a Nurse Practitioner to allow him to perform Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation therapy on patients and then submitted false claims to Medicaid for reimbursement for performing said therapy.
Mauldin pleaded guilty to Aggravated Identify Theft and Obtaining Drugs (Oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance) by Fraud. He faces a mandatory minimum of 2 years in prison on the Aggravated Identity Theft charge, which would run consecutively to any term of imprisonment imposed on the Obtaining Drugs by Fraud charge.The maximum penalty for the Obtaining Drugs by Fraud Charge is 4 years of imprisonment. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for November 3, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace, FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, and Delaware Attorney General Kathy Jennings made the announcement. This case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Drug Enforcement Agency, and the Delaware Department of Justice’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Assistant U.S. Attorney M. David Tambussi Jr. is prosecuting the case.
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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-cr-147.
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Harrington Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Material and Hands-on Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Harrington man was sentenced yesterday to 120 months in prison for possessing child sexual abuse material (“CSAM”). U.S. District Judge Gregory B. Williams imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Todd Fisher, 33, solicited, received, and exchanged CSAM involving prepubescent children, including children as young as seven years old. Fisher used an online messaging platform and an encrypted cloud storage and communication service to send and receive CSAM. The investigation also revealed that Fisher sexually assaulted a minor child known to him on multiple occasions.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace stated, “Todd Fisher not only victimized children by watching and sharing videos of child sexual abuse, but he also molested a child with his own hands. The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to investigate and prosecute those who hurt children, regardless of whether they do so physically or by watching their abuse over the internet. I am grateful for our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners’ tireless work to keep our community safe from people who harm children.”
“This ten-year sentence puts an admitted predator in prison where he can no longer exploit and abuse innocent children,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul. “For the FBI, protecting our kids from monsters like Todd Fisher is a high priority and we work diligently with our partners to ensure offenders are identified and fully held accountable.”
Upon Fisher’s release from prison, he will be required to serve a 10-year term of supervised release and register as a sex offender.
The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force investigated this 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 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-cr-108-GBW.
Civil Complaint Filed over False Laboratory ClaimsRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Today, United States Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace announced the filing of civil claims against three defendants, Alpha Care Medical, LLC; its owner Nihar Gala, of Lewes, Delaware; and its laboratory director Bo Wang, of Glen Mills, Pennsylvania, in connection with an alleged scheme to defraud Medicare, Medicaid, TRICARE, and the Federal Employees Health Benefits Program through submission of false claims for laboratory diagnostic testing. The complaint filed in federal court is part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
In its complaint, the United States alleges that the defendants violated the False Claims Act by submitting thousands of claims to government healthcare programs for laboratory diagnostic tests that lacked a valid medical purpose to diagnose or treat patients, were conducted in violation of laboratory clinical standards that ensure reliability, and, in numerous cases, were not conducted at all.
“As alleged, the defendants exploited federal health care programs for financial gain at the expense of patients and taxpayers,” said U.S. Attorney Wallace. “In the District of Delaware, we will continue to vigorously enforce the False Claims Act to protect patients, public funds, and the integrity of our health care system.”
The civil claims announced by U.S. Attorney Wallace are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in charges against 455 defendants, including 90 doctors and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes involving over $6.5 billion in false claims and significant patient harm, including death. The 2026 Takedown represents a new era in federal, state, and international cooperation to combat health care fraud: charges in 56 federal districts and involving 45 U.S. states and territories, the most in Department history. In addition, unprecedented international cooperation over the two-week Takedown resulted in the apprehension and return to the United States of the following health care fraudsters: one defendant in Kyrenia in connection with an over $3.7 billion scheme; two defendants in Estonia in connection with a previously charged $10.6 billion scheme; and, in the Philippines, one of FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters in connection with a $1.2 billion telemedicine scheme. The Takedown involves the cutting-edge use of data analytics to target the worst actors; seize over $182 million in cash, houses, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other assets; and provide full spectrum accountability for all criminal actors from doctor’s offices to corporate boardrooms.
Coordinated enforcement action involving a whole-of-government approach, includes:
- Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers.
- 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers.
- Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million.
- 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025.
The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, Texas, and West Coast Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Alabama, District of Arizona, Central District of California, Southern District of California, District of Colorado, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Northern District of Georgia, District of Hawaii, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Northern District of Iowa, Southern District of Iowa, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nebraska, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, District of New Mexico, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Middle District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, Northern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Middle District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Pennsylvania, District of Puerto Rico, District of Rhode Island, District of South Carolina, District of South Dakota, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Virginia, Northern District of West Virginia, Southern District of West Virginia, Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Western District of Wisconsin; and State Attorneys General’s Offices, through their MFCUs, in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. In addition, the MFCUs for Alabama, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, and Virginia participated in the investigation of federal cases announced today.
Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website here.
The District of Delaware, in particular, worked with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG) to investigate the case, which is being handled by Assistant U.S. Attorney Elizabeth Vieyra.
The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates its emphasis on combating health care fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services, at 800 HHS TIPS (800-447-8477).
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. A copy of the complaint is attached to this press release. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 26-cv-707.
The allegations in the complaint are merely accusations. There has been no determination of liability.
Engineering Manager Charged with $1.4 Million Insider Trading SchemeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment yesterday charging a Wilmington man with securities fraud and insider trading.
According to the indictment, Casey Muggleston, 44, served as an engineering manager with a publicly traded energy company that operates nuclear, hydroelectric, wind, and solar generation facilities. From in or around May 2024 until in or around September 2024, Muggleston learned of material nonpublic information about the company’s efforts to restart a nuclear reactor. The energy company owned the nuclear reactor, which had previously ceased operations in 2019. The indictment alleges that through his employment, Muggleston received progress updates and confidential internal communications about the energy company’s efforts to restart the reactor.
Muggleston used this confidential information to purchase hundreds of call options in the energy company through his own brokerage account. Call options provide the buyer with the right, but not the obligation, to purchase shares of the underlying security at a specified price (the “strike price”) on or before the option’s expiration date. Muggleston purchased these call options despite his employer’s policies prohibiting insider trading and the purchase and sale of the company’s call options. On September 20, 2024, the energy company publicly announced the restart of the nuclear reactor and that it had entered into a power purchase agreement with a large technology company to purchase all of the energy produced by the reactor. That same day, Muggleston sold 550 call option contracts he held in the energy company for a total of approximately $1,480,380.67.
Muggleston is charged with one count of securities fraud, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 1348, and four counts of insider trading, in violation of 15 U.S.C. §§ 78j(b) & 78ff and 17 C.F.R. § 240.10b-5. If convicted, Muggleston faces a maximum penalty of 25 years in prison for the securities fraud count and 20 years in prison for each of the four insider trading counts. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace made the announcement. Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Baltimore Field Office’s Wilmington and Dover Resident Agencies investigated the case. The U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission provided valuable assistance in this matter. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corey J. Hauser and Bryan C. Williamson are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-105-UNA.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Brooklyn Man Charged with Coercing and Raping a 14-Year-Old Delaware ResidentRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment today charging a Brooklyn, New York, man with coercion and enticement of a minor and for traveling to Delaware to rape his victim.
According to court documents, Claude Lennon, 24, communicated with a 14-year-old victim via an online messaging platform and engaged in sexually-charged conversations. Through those conversations, Lennon learned the victim’s age and nevertheless arranged to meet the victim in Wilmington, Delaware. Lennon then traveled by train from New York to Wilmington and took an Uber to an agreed-upon location, after which Lennon and the victim engaged in sexual conduct constituting rape in the fourth degree under Delaware law. Lennon also brought condoms with him and provided the victim with approximately $80 and marijuana edibles.
Lennon is charged with one count of coercion and enticement of a minor, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2422(b), and one count of travel with the intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct, in violation of 18 U.S.C. § 2423(b). If convicted, Lennon faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life imprisonment. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace made the announcement.
The FBI Baltimore Field Office’s Wilmington Resident Agency, the Wilmington Police Department, and the New York City Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Claudia L. Pare and Bryan C. Williamson are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-104.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
Aquatherm. L.P. Agrees to Pay $1.35 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Paycheck Protection Program LoansRead the Press Release
Wilmington, Del. – Aquatherm, L.P. (“Aquatherm”), a Delaware limited partnership based in Lindon, Utah, has agreed to pay $1,351,575.84 to resolve allegations that it improperly obtained a Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) for which it was not eligible.
PPP was an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, and administered by the SBA. The program was created to support small businesses and to help them continue to pay employees and meet other business expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. To be eligible for a PPP loan, a business was required to certify that it had no more than 300 employees, including employees of all domestic and foreign affiliates.
Aquatherm is 99% owned by Aquatherm Besitzgesellschaft mbH & Co. KG, a German company, and manufactures polypropylene piping for pressurized mechanical and plumbing systems.
In March of 2021, Aquatherm applied for and received an $864,982 PPP loan after falsely certifying that it, together with its affiliates, had fewer than 300 employees. Aquatherm later sought and obtained full forgiveness of that loan from SBA. Aquatherm was ineligible for the loan, however, because together with its domestic and foreign affiliates, it had over 300 employees.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace announced the settlement. Civil Chief Dylan J. Steinberg handled the case.
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party—known as a relator—can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. In this case, the relator will receive a share of the settlement.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. The settlement agreement is attached to this press release. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-413-CFC.
The claims resolved by the settlement are merely allegations. There has been no determination of liability.
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aquatherm_settlement_agreement_v.5.pdfCoast-to-Coast Cocaine Trafficker Responsible for Distributing 956 Kilograms of Cocaine Along East Coast Sentenced to 275 Months in PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Queens, New York, man was sentenced on May 29, 2026, to 275 months in prison for his role in a nationwide cocaine-trafficking conspiracy. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika imposed the sentence. The Court also issued a Preliminary Order of Forfeiture for a personal money judgment in the amount of $2,495,500, which represents the gross proceeds of the defendant’s cocaine enterprise.
According to court documents and evidence presented in connection with sentencing, Brahmananda Prasad, 65, engaged in a coast-to-coast cocaine-trafficking conspiracy. Prasad regularly flew from his home in New York to California, where he met with cocaine suppliers and purchased multi-kilogram quantities of cocaine. He routinely purchased between 20 and 24 kilograms of cocaine at a time, and on occasion procured as much as approximately 48 kilograms of cocaine on a single trip. Prasad then shipped the cocaine back to New York, directing others to pose as representatives of his ostensibly legitimate shipping company to evade detection. Once back on the East Coast, Prasad distributed cocaine to multi-kilogram sub-distributors in New York and Maryland, who further distributed the cocaine in Delaware and elsewhere along the East Coast.
The government’s investigation into Prasad’s cocaine-trafficking conspiracy included drug seizures, surveillance, analysis of flight and shipping records, and a nearly four-month wiretap, among other measures. The investigation revealed that Prasad had been shipping cocaine from California to New York since at least 2021, and that he was responsible for bringing at least 956 kilograms of cocaine to the East Coast for further distribution. That drug weight is approximately six times the volume attributed to any other drug defendant prosecuted in the District of Delaware in recent memory.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace stated, “Brahmananda Prasad made millions by pumping poison into several states on the East Coast, Delaware included. But due to the dogged efforts of federal prosecutors and agents, Prasad will pay those millions back—and will spend more than two decades in prison to boot. This just sentence should send a message to other large-scale drug traffickers: if your product touches Delaware, we will find you and hold you accountable, even if you never once set foot in our State.”
“This sentence sends a clear message to those who would attempt to profit from poisoning our communities with dangerous drugs,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Nathan Abel. “Through persistent investigative work and strong partnerships with our law enforcement counterparts, HSI dismantled a coast-to-coast trafficking operation responsible for flooding the East Coast with staggering quantities of cocaine. We remain committed to holding traffickers accountable and protecting our neighborhoods from the devastating impact of narcotics distribution.”
This matter was the result of a long-term investigation spearheaded by Homeland Security Investigations, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation. Criminal Chief Carly A. Hudson, Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill, and former Assistant U.S. Attorney Jennifer K. Welsh prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative. The HSTF is a United States government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, transnational gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) worldwide. This initiative identifies TCOs engaged in a wide range of criminal schemes that violate federal law, while dismantling cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks that fuel violence and instability that threatens the safety and security of the United States and its global partners. It also places a particular emphasis on criminal offenses involving children and ensures the use of all available law enforcement tools to prosecute offenders and/or facilitate the removal of removal criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Wilmington is comprised of agents and officers from HSI and FBI, with case-specific participation from agencies including DEA, IRS-CI, USPIS, and ATF. The prosecution was led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-CR-34.
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United States Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace Announces Appointment of Paul W. Kaufman as First Assistant United States AttorneyRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace announced today that Paul W. Kaufman has been appointed First Assistant U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware. As First Assistant, Kaufman will serve as the Office’s second-ranking official and assist in leading the Office’s operations and mission throughout the District of Delaware.
“Paul Kaufman has been an exemplary advocate for the United States for nearly two decades,” said U.S. Attorney Wallace. “I am delighted that he has agreed to help me lead the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. The Office and the District will benefit immensely from Paul’s sharp mind, steady hands, and sound judgment.”
Kaufman has served as an Assistant United States Attorney since 2007 in the District of New Jersey and the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. During that time, he specialized in civil fraud enforcement, leading teams of AUSAs and investigators that have recovered hundreds of millions of taxpayer dollars and developing processes for streamlining parallel prosecution of criminal and civil matters, while also working on defensive and criminal matters. Kaufman has also served as an Electronic Discovery Office Coordinator, on the Executive Office of United States Attorneys’ Electronic Discovery Working Group, and on the Federal Electronic Discovery Working Group.
A respected teacher and published academic, Kaufman frequently trains other AUSAs in trial advocacy, pre-trial advocacy, motion practice, and eLitigation at the National Advocacy Center, and he has presented on substantive matters of affirmative civil enforcement to numerous Offices of Inspector General, to the Council of Inspectors General on Integrity and Efficiency, and at the Federal Law Enforcement Training Center. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School, the Temple University Beasley School of Law, and Rutgers-Camden Law School.
Kaufman is a graduate of the Yale Law School, the University of Chicago, and Saint Mark’s High School in Newark, Delaware. A veteran of the Delaware High School Mock Trial program, Kaufman remains a dedicated supporter of high school mock trial, having served since 2011 on the Board of Directors of the National High School Mock Trial Championship and from 2020-2025 as its Chair. In 2024, he received the Justice Gene Franchini Golden Gavel Award from that organization, and in 2025, Kaufman was inducted into the Saint Mark’s High School Hall of Honor. Kaufman is an Eagle Scout and remains active with Scouting America as a leader and merit badge counselor, and he is helping to develop its Public Service Academy program.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware.
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Federal Jury Convicts Two Out-of-State Residents in Pandemic Relief Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – On May 21, 2026, a federal jury convicted a South Carolina man and an Oregon woman for their roles in a fraud scheme that generated more than $9.1 million in disaster-relief loans for dozens of businesses across the country.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Devlon Porter, 51, conspired with Jady Solano, a Wilmington tax preparer, to submit fraudulent applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans. The PPP was a COVID-19 relief program designed to safeguard jobs during the pandemic. Porter paid Solano to prepare two applications on behalf of companies that had no actual employees. The applications falsely claimed that the companies maintained substantial annual payrolls exceeding $1 million and relied on fabricated tax forms. As a result of the scheme, Porter received over $287,000 in wrongful disbursements, paid Solano more than $50,000 in kickbacks, and never repaid the loans. The jury convicted Porter of conspiracy to commit bank fraud and conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Amber Baldwin, 56, received over $280,000 after Solano submitted a PPP loan application falsely claiming a shell company she owned had an annual payroll exceeding $1 million. Like Porter’s applications, Baldwin’s submission relied on false tax documents. Baldwin never repaid her loan and paid over $95,000 in kickbacks to co-conspirators. The jury convicted Baldwin of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
“The Paycheck Protection Program was designed to provide an economic lifeline to American workers and small businesses during a historic crisis,” said Benjamin L. Wallace, U.S. Attorney for the District of Delaware. “Instead of using these emergency funds for their intended purpose, Devlon Porter and Amber Baldwin exploited a public-relief program to line their own pockets. This verdict demonstrates that those who attempt to defraud federal programs will be held accountable. We remain deeply committed to protecting taxpayer dollars, and we thank our partners at the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation for their exceptional work in dismantling this nationwide scheme.”
“I am proud of the diligent investigative work which led to these convictions,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul. “Devlon Porter, Amber Baldwin and their co-conspirators stole from American taxpayers, treating pandemic relief like a personal slush fund. The FBI will continue to work with our partners to identify, investigate and hold accountable criminals defrauding critical government programs and abusing public trust.”
“Devlon Porter and Jady Solano deliberately carried out a scheme to defraud a program that was designed to assist people during the pandemic,” said Philadelphia Field Office Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty. “This verdict serves as a warning to others that IRS-CI and our law enforcement partners stand ready to investigate those who attempt to fleece the government.”
Porter faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison for his bank-fraud conspiracy conviction and a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for his money-laundering conspiracy conviction. Baldwin faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Agents of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, and the FBI Baltimore Field Office’s Wilmington Resident Agency investigated the case. U.S. Attorney Wallace and Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryan C. Williamson prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-109-JLH.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Recognizes NCCPD Officers as “Hometown Heroes”Read the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – On May 19, 2026, U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace presented the District’s Freedom 250 Hometown Hero award to Officers First Class Christopher Hewlett, Nathan Jupiter, and Jay Scerbo of the New Castle County Police Department. Officer Scerbo’s award was presented in his absence. Members of the New Castle County Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the United States Attorney’s Office were present for the ceremony.
The Hometown Hero award commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States. It honors the enduring ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility. Officers Hewlett, Jupiter, and Scerbo were chosen for this award for embodying those ideals and for their steadfast commitment to public service and their exceptional work safeguarding our communities.
Officers Hewlett, Jupiter, and Scerbo were on patrol duty on November 24, 2025. Shortly before midnight, they spotted a white Toyota Tacoma in Canby Park West. After lawfully stopping the truck, the officers developed probable cause to order the car’s sole occupant—Luqmaan Khan—out of the truck to search it. During that search, the officers found a loaded handgun, multiple extended magazines, an armored ballistic plate, and a marble composition book. A later search of Khan’s home conducted by the FBI and NCCPD uncovered a handgun equipped with an illegal machinegun conversion device, a rifle with a red dot sight, 11 more extended magazines, hollow point rounds of ammunition, and a tactical vest.
The marble composition notebook recovered from the truck discussed additional weapons, how they could be used in an attack, and how law enforcement detection could be avoided once an attack was carried out. The notebook also referenced a member of the University of Delaware’s Police Department by name, and included a layout of a building with entry and exit points under which the words “UD Police Station” were printed.
When presenting the awards, U.S. Attorney Wallace said, “The courage and professionalism that these three men showed on November 24, 2025, potentially averted a mass shooting and the slaying of one or more members of the University of Delaware’s campus police department. That is service of the highest order. The State is in these officers’ debt.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office is honored to recognize Officers First Class Hewlett, Jupiter, and Scerbo as our District’s Freedom 250 Hometown Heroes.
Credit: New Castle County Police Department###
Federal Jury Convicts New Castle County Man of Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal jury convicted a New Castle County resident yesterday on charges of possession of cocaine with the intent to distribute, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime, and unlawful possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Damion Thomas, 26, attempted to sell marijuana to an undercover police officer on July 2, 2024. Inside Thomas’s car, officers found pre-packaged cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. Officers later searched a bedroom at a residence associated with Thomas and found more cocaine, marijuana, and drug packaging materials. Officers also located a safe inside that bedroom. The safe contained over 180 grams of cocaine, almost 150 individual packages of fentanyl, a bulk supply of marijuana, drug packaging materials, cash, and a loaded revolver. Thomas was prohibited from possessing a firearm due, in part, to a 2018 conviction for attempted first-degree robbery.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace stated, “Today’s conviction sends a clear message that those who flood our communities with dangerous drugs—and especially those who do so while armed—will be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I am grateful to our dedicated state and federal law enforcement partners whose tireless work made this just prosecution possible.”
Thomas faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison for possessing the revolver in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime and could be sentenced to a maximum of life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for September 18, 2026, at 10:00 am.
The New Castle County Police Department, the Delaware Bureau of Community Corrections, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) investigated the case with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the Delaware Division of Forensic Science. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill and Corey J. Hauser prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-117-RGA.
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Delaware Business Owner Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Multi-Year Tax Evasion SchemeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Townsend, Delaware man was sentenced yesterday to 18 months in prison for tax evasion. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, John Kungu, 62, the owner of Advanced Nursing Care, engaged in a calculated, multi-year scheme to avoid paying nearly $1.2 million in taxes. Between 2018 and 2021, Kungu submitted multiple false sworn statements to the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) claiming that he could not afford to pay his tax liabilities, despite having millions of dollars in undisclosed bank accounts. On one occasion, Kungu offered to settle his tax debt for $35,000, claiming he would need to take out a loan, while simultaneously holding over $5.1 million in hidden accounts.
Additionally, from 2018 through 2020, Kungu filed false personal and corporate tax returns by intentionally categorizing hundreds of thousands of dollars in personal benefits and payments to himself as business expenses, thereby improperly reducing his tax burden to the government. Kungu intentionally withheld financial records from his bookkeeper and tax preparer to conceal his evasion.
“John Kungu built a highly successful business, but instead of paying his fair share, he chose to line his own pockets at the expense of every law-abiding taxpayer,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “When caught, he doubled down on his fraud, lying under oath to the IRS to hide millions of dollars in wealth. Yesterday’s sentence demonstrates that those who view tax evasion as a mere cost of doing business will face serious consequences, including time in federal prison.”
“Yesterday’s sentencing is a direct result of the excellent partnership the IRS and the U.S. Attorney’s office has in combating violations of Federal law,” said Yury Kruty, Special Agent in Charge IRS Criminal Investigation, Philadelphia Field Office. “This sentence shows how seriously the courts take Federal tax crimes and should serve as a deterrent to those who might contemplate similar fraudulent actions.”
Upon Kungu’s release from prison, he will be required to serve 3 years of supervised release. In addition to his prison sentence, Kungu was ordered to pay a $75,000 fine and $1,186,573.62 in United States Attorney’s Office District of Delaware restitution to the IRS. Kungu has since paid the restitution amount, along with applicable interest and penalties.
IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Alexander P. Ibrahim and Claudia L. Pare prosecuted the case.
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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-00056-CFC.Sussex County Man Pleads Guilty to Transportation of a Minor for Criminal Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Sussex County man pleaded guilty yesterday to transportation of a minor with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika accepted the plea.
According to court documents, Miles Clark, 22, transported a 12-year-old girl from a church near her residence in Pennsylvania to his residence in Delaware where the two had sexual intercourse. Approximately one week before, Clark and the minor victim met on Snapchat. Their conversations quickly turned sexual with Clark describing in detail the various sex acts he wanted to engage in with the minor. Clark also sent the minor videos of himself masturbating. Clark knew the victim was a minor.
Clark pleaded guilty to transportation of a minor and faces a maximum of life imprisonment with a mandatory-minimum sentence of 10 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for August 27, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and FBI Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul made the announcement.
FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case with the assistance of Delaware State Police Troop 4. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia L. Pare is prosecuting 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. 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-cr-3-MN.
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Former Delaware Physician to Pay $180,000 to Resolve Allegations of Genetic Testing FraudRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Dr. Shayasta S. Mufti, a physician and former resident of Newark, Delaware, has agreed to pay $180,000 to resolve allegations that she violated the False Claims Act by fraudulently ordering medically unnecessary genetic testing for over 100 Medicare beneficiaries.
According to the United States, between April 2019 and November 2019, Dr. Mufti ordered medically unnecessary genetic tests for more than 100 Medicare patients. The United States alleges that Dr. Mufti had no established physician‑patient relationship with these patients, did not examine them, did not review or discuss the test results, and did not use the results to inform any course of treatment for any of the patients. In many instances, the orders were based solely on brief telemedicine consultations—and sometimes no consultation at all. The genetic tests Dr. Mufti ordered frequently cost Medicare thousands of dollars per patient.
“Physicians who order unnecessary and expensive services, including genetic tests, drain critical resources from Medicare and other federal health care programs,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “These schemes not only waste taxpayer dollars, they undermine the integrity of programs that millions of Americans rely on. Our office will continue to use data analytics and work closely with our law enforcement partners to identify providers who misuse federal funds and to hold them accountable.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Laksin and Auditor David Cheung handled the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. The settlement agreement is attached to this press release. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. No. 25-771-MN.
The claims resolved by the settlement are merely allegations. There has been no determination of liability.
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cleaned-mufti-fully_executed_settlement_agreement_4.16.26_v.1.pdfBridgeville Man Indicted for Federal Drug and Gun ViolationsRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment April 7, 2026, charging a Bridgeville, Delaware man for unlawfully possessing fentanyl and an AR-15-style rifle. Lamir Faison, 21, appeared for an initial appearance on April 16, 2026, before the Honorable Laura D. Hatcher.
According to the indictment, Faison was found in possession of fentanyl, which he intended to distribute, and an AR-15-style rifle. Faison is prohibited from possessing firearms because of a prior felony conviction.
Faison is charged with one count of possession with the intent to distribute fentanyl, one count of possession of a firearm by a person prohibited, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. If convicted, Faison faces a maximum penalty of life in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), made the announcement.
ATF, the Delaware State Police, and the Delaware State Department of Probation and Parole investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin P. Pierce is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-60.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Wilmington Man Indicted After Machinegun and Manifesto are FoundRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on April 16, 2026, charging a Wilmington, Delaware man for unlawfully possessing a Glock 19 equipped with a machinegun conversion device.
According to court documents, on Monday, November 24, 2025, at approximately 11:47 p.m., patrol officers of the New Castle County Police Department were conducting a property check in Canby Park West when they observed a white Toyota Tacoma in the parkland, after hours. Officers initiated a traffic stop on the vehicle and contacted the driver, and sole occupant, 25-year-old Luqmaan Khan of Wilmington. During the stop, officers developed probable cause to order Khan out of the vehicle, and he refused to comply. Subsequently, Khan resisted arrest and was taken into custody by the officers.
During their investigation, officers discovered in Khan’s vehicle a .357 caliber Glock handgun loaded with 27 rounds. The handgun had been inserted into a microplastic conversion firearm brace kit. Within the vehicle, officers also found all the following: (i) three more loaded, 27-round magazines (one in the storage slot of the conversion kit); (ii) a loaded Glock 9mm magazine; (iii) an armored ballistic plate; and (iv) a marble composition notebook.
In the handwritten notebook, Khan discussed additional weapons and firearms, how they could be used in an attack, and how law enforcement detection could be avoided once an attack was carried out. The notebook referenced a member of the University of Delaware’s Police Department by name, and included a layout of a building with entry and exit points under which the words “UD Police Station” were printed.
On November 25, 2025, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and NCCPD executed a search warrant at Khan’s Wilmington residence. Within, law enforcement recovered a Glock 19 9mm handgun equipped with an illegal machinegun conversion device, commonly called a “switch.” Law enforcement also recovered a .556 rifle with a scope and a red dot sight, eleven more extended magazines, hollow point rounds of ammunition, and a two-plate tactical vest equipped with a single ballistic plate.
The Indictment charges Khan with possession of a machinegun. If convicted, Khan faces a maximum penalty of 10 years of imprisonment. If Khan is ultimately convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and the New Castle County Police Department (NCCPD) are investigating the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin P. Pierce and Samuel S. Frey are prosecuting the case.United States Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace stated, “The United States has charged Luqmann Khan with possessing a weapon that could have killed scores of Delawareans in mere seconds. And as we have previously alleged, the evidence indicates that Khan was planning to use that weapon, and potentially others, in an attack on the Delaware community. We thank our law enforcement partners at the FBI and NCCPD for thwarting Khan before he could do real harm, and we look forward to proving our case against Khan in court.”
“According to the indictment, Luqmaan Khan illegally armed himself with these dangerous weapons. Machinegun conversion devices pose a real danger to our communities. One pull of the trigger is no longer just one bullet; it could be 15 rounds in one second. The FBI, in collaboration with our dedicated law enforcement partners, is unwavering in our commitment to hold individuals like Mr. Khan accountable. The safety and well-being of Delaware residents remain our highest priority,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul.
“Thanks to the proactive work of these patrol officers, a dangerous threat to our community was stopped before it could escalate into violence. Their professionalism, vigilance, and commitment to public safety embody the values we expect and the courage our residents depend on every day. We also extend our sincere thanks to our federal partners, whose collaboration was instrumental in bringing this incident to a safe and successful conclusion,” said Colonel James J. Leonard III of the New Castle County Police Department.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-71.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Two Wilmington Men Arrested for Conspiring to Distribute Four Kilograms of CocaineRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Two Wilmington residents were arrested on April 14, 2026, for conspiring to distribute approximately four kilograms of cocaine.
According to court documents, Victor Roman-Maldonado, 38, and Gilberto Alvarez III, 42, were subjects of a drug investigation conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Delaware State Police.
On April 14, 2026, law enforcement executed search warrants at Roman-Maldonado’s and Alvarez’s residences in Wilmington, a third Wilmington address, and two vehicles connected to Roman-Maldonado. The search revealed two parcels, shipped from Puerto Rico to Delaware through the United States Postal Service, containing approximately four kilograms of cocaine.
The criminal complaints charged both defendants with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine. If convicted, Roman-Maldonado and Alvarez face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace, FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul, and the United States Postal Inspection Service Philadelphia Division, Inspector in Charge Christopher Nielsen made the announcement.
The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Delaware State Police are conducting the ongoing investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kevin P. Pierce and Corey J. Hauser are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 26-211M (Roman-Maldonado) and 26-212M (Alvarez).
The charges contained in the criminal complaints are merely accusations, and the defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Dover Man with Four Prior Gun Convictions Sentenced to 40 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Dover man was sentenced yesterday to 40 months in prison for drug dealing and possessing a gun after multiple prior felony convictions. U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Hall imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Deontray Watson, 24, was released from state prison on a prior gun conviction in late February 2024. Less than a month later, law enforcement received information that Watson was once again armed and now dealing drugs. Law enforcement arrested Watson and an associate at a gas station. Inside their vehicle, law enforcement found fentanyl, crack cocaine, and a loaded, stolen handgun. The handgun was found beneath the passenger seat on top of Watson’s wallet. Watson ultimately pleaded guilty to federal gun and drug offenses. The gun conviction gives Watson five such convictions in the past ten years.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace stated, “Deontray Watson has been an armed danger to Delaware since he was a teenager. That is why, after I became the U.S. Attorney for our District, I continued personally handling this case. The just sentence imposed by Judge Hall today is more than double the longest sentence Deontray Watson has previously served. It is my sincere hope that this is the punishment that finally gets through to Watson. I extend my thanks to our law enforcement partners at the ATF, the Dover Police Department, and Delaware Probation and Parole, all of whom did terrific work investigating this case.”
ATF Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer stated, “This sentence reflects ATF’s commitment to targeting armed drug traffickers who fuel violence in our communities. By removing individuals who combine illegal narcotics distribution with firearms, we directly reduce the threat of violence in our community and show those who bring guns into our neighborhoods that they will be held accountable.”
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-129.
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Court Orders Delaware Department of Labor to Comply with Lawfully Issued Federal SubpoenaRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – On April 13, 2026, Chief Judge Colm F. Connolly granted the United States’s Petition to Enforce a Department of Homeland Security Administrative Subpoena issued to the Delaware Department of Labor.
Last year, Homeland Security Investigations (“HSI”) issued an administrative subpoena to the Delaware Department of Labor (“DDOL”) seeking documents for several specified Delaware businesses as part of an ongoing immigration-related worksite enforcement investigation being conducted by HSI. DDOL refused to provide the documents demanded by the subpoena. As a result, the United States filed suit seeking to enforce the subpoena. In his ruling, Chief Judge Connolly held that HSI’s investigation had a legitimate purpose, that the administrative subpoena sought information relevant to its investigation, and that the subpoena was not unreasonably broad or burdensome. As a result, Chief Judge Connolly held that HSI’s administrative subpoena was valid and enforceable. DDOL must now comply with the subpoena and produce the documents demanded therein.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace stated, “Congress gave HSI the authority to issue administrative subpoenas within its area of responsibility. Delaware’s state agencies have historically complied with federal subpoenas, as they are required to do by law. But here, a state agency refused to comply—not for legal reasons, but for political ones. That could not stand, so we sued to enforce the subpoena. We are gratified that the Court recognized the simple truth at the core of this case: federal law applies to everyone, whether they are a state or private entity, and whether they agree or disagree with the federal government’s policy priorities.”
Special Agent in Charge Eric McLoughlin stated, “HSI is committed to upholding the integrity of our nation’s labor laws and ensuring that investigations are conducted thoroughly and lawfully. The court’s decision affirms the legitimacy of our worksite enforcement investigations and the necessity of access to relevant records. We appreciate the support of our partners in the U.S. Attorney’s Office and will continue to pursue all necessary avenues to protect the interests of American workers and businesses.”
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-mc-322-CFC.
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Two Wilmington Men Indicted on Federal Methamphetamine and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment last week charging two Wilmington men with conspiracy to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine pills and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
According to court records, Marcus Warren and Donavan McGriff, both 35, were the subjects of a drug investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the New Castle County Police Department (NCCPD).
Following that months-long investigation, on Tuesday, March 10, 2026, members of the DEA, NCCPD, and the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team executed search warrants for Warren and McGriff, their residences in Wilmington, and McGriff’s car. Both Warren and McGriff were occupants of the car at the time of the search. The car search revealed over 500 grams of pills which were subsequently identified as methamphetamine.
The search of Warren’s residence resulted in the recovery of nearly one kilogram of additional methamphetamine pills and three guns, including a privately made firearm or “ghost gun” with no serial number. The search of McGriff’s residence resulted in the recovery of an additional gun.
Warren and McGriff are charged with conspiracy to distribute more than 500 grams of a mixture or substance containing methamphetamine and one count each of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. If convicted, Warren faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison. McGriff faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and DEA Philadelphia Field Division, Wilmington Resident Office, Special Agent in Charge Thomas Hodnett made the announcement.
The DEA and NCCPD investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin B. Smith is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case Nos. 1:26-cr-61-UNA
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Wilmington Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Wilmington man was sentenced yesterday to 121 months in prison for distributing child sexual abuse material (“CSAM”). U.S. District Judge Gregory B. Williams imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Tyler Ramaley, 32, joined other men on Zoom video chat rooms for the purpose of watching, discussing, and masturbating to videos depicting graphic sexual violence toward minors, including infants less than one year old. During the calls, Ramaley even streamed his personal CSAM collection for others. Following Ramaley’s arrest, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (“FBI”) seized and searched Ramaley’s devices pursuant to a federal search warrant, where they discovered additional CSAM and conversations with others regarding the exploitation of children.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace stated, “Every time Tyler Ramaley watched a video of a child being sexually abused—and every time he helped another person do so—he was victimizing that child all over again. My Office will never stop pursuing those who hurt children, even if we need to chase those offenders through the darkest corners of the internet. I thank our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, whose excellent investigative work led to the arrest and conviction of this dangerous offender.”
“The FBI investigates crimes of violence and sexual abuse against children as a top priority,” said FBI Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul. “The sentencing of Tyler Ramaley for having knowingly received, possessed, and shared videos of child sexual abuse material will hopefully provide a degree of relief to Ramaley’s victims. Ramaley victimized the most vulnerable members of our society, and the FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force will vigorously pursue anyone who commits such crimes.”
Upon his release from prison, Ramaley will be required to register as a sex offender.
The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force investigated this case, with the assistance of the New Castle County Police Department, Delaware State Police, and the Chester County District Attorney’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia L. Pare 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 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.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-cr-49-GBW.
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Cocaine Dealer and Repeat Immigration Offender Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Newark man was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and illegal reentry into the United States after removal. U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Hall imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Adan Cuevas-Arteaga, 44, had been previously deported to Mexico on five separate occasions between 2007 and 2019. Most recently, he illegally returned to the United States and sold cocaine. Search warrants executed on Cuevas-Artega’s residence and car recovered cocaine, digital scales, drug packaging material, $7,400 in cash, and two rounds of nine-millimeter ammunition.
“The defendant demonstrated a blatant disregard for our nation’s laws by repeatedly entering the United States unlawfully, and, once here, profiting from the distribution of illegal narcotics,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “My office will continue working alongside our law enforcement partners to vigorously prosecute drug dealers, especially those who have no legal right to be in the United States in the first place.”
“The distribution of illegal narcotics continues to plague our communities,” said Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul. “Adan Cuevas-Arteaga profited from trafficking cocaine while disregarding our immigration laws needed for public safety. Today’s charges serve as a reminder that the FBI, through the Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force, will continue to target these offenders and the adverse impact they are having on our communities.”
The FBI’s Delaware Violent Crime and Safe Streets Task Force investigated the case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexander P. Ibrahim prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-CR-134.
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Maryland Man Arrested for Facilitating Multimillion-Dollar International Romance Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Maryland man was arrested on March 25, 2026, after a federal grand jury indicted him on charges of wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud in connection with a multimillion-dollar romance fraud scheme.
According to court documents, Kwame Boahene, 63, and his co-conspirators orchestrated an international romance fraud scheme that defrauded victims across the country, including elderly victims and a victim in Delaware. The cybercriminals created fictitious online personas to develop romantic relationships with the victims. Once trust was established, the scammers convinced the victims to send money for fabricated reasons, such as helping to secure an inheritance or paying for medical expenses.
To advance the fraud, Boahene used bank accounts opened under the names of limited liability companies to receive several million dollars in fraudulent proceeds from the victims. He then transferred the illicit funds through various domestic and international bank accounts to conceal the money’s fraudulent origins.
Boahene is charged with wire fraud and conspiracy to commit wire fraud. If convicted, Boahene faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison on each charge. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Special Agent in Charge Jimmy Paul with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) – Baltimore Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI Baltimore Field Office’s Wilmington Resident Agency is investigating the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:25-cr-128.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty
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Dover Man Sentenced to 12.5 Years in Federal Prison Following Drug and Gun ConvictionsRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Dover man was sentenced yesterday to 150 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm by a person prohibited. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Amir Watts, 35, was arrested on his way to sell an undercover officer two pounds of methamphetamine. In the months prior to his arrest, Watts had sold that same undercover officer increasing quantities of methamphetamine and a gun.
U.S. Attorney Bejamin L. Wallace stated, “Guns and drugs are a lethal combination. This defendant trafficked in both. Judge Noreika’s just sentence appropriately reflects the dangerousness of Amir Watts’ conduct. I extend my sincere thanks to our law enforcement partners—and particularly to the courageous undercover officer—whose excellent work helped bring Watts to justice.”
DEA Philadelphia Field Division Special Agent in Charge Thomas Hodnett said, “Watts’ sentence should send a powerful message: justice will prevail against those who threaten the safety and stability of our communities. This sentence is a testament to the commitment and seamless collaboration between Federal, State, and Local Law Enforcement. Together, we are dismantling violent criminal networks.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration and Delaware State Police investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Claudia L. Pare prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 22-CR-129-MN.
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Bridgeville Man Sentenced to 96 Months in Prison for Federal Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Bridgeville man was sentenced yesterday to 96 months in prison for trafficking over 10 kilograms of cocaine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug-trafficking crime. U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Hall imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, Terry Hammond, 31, was pulled over by the Bridgeville Police Department on March 8, 2024, while driving an improperly registered Chevrolet Silverado. During the traffic stop, a drug-sniffing dog detected the smell of drugs in the car. When officers attempted to search the car, Hammond forcibly resisted arrest. The search ultimately revealed approximately 10.5 kilograms of cocaine packaged in brick form, a loaded semiautomatic pistol, ammunition, a digital scale, and nearly $16,000 in cash.
On May 7, 2024, less than two months after his initial arrest and while on state pretrial release, Hammond was arrested again by the Delaware State Police following a foot pursuit. Authorities recovered nearly $3,000 in cash from his person, as well as an additional $27,000 in currency, over 100 grams of cocaine, and roughly 117 bags of suspected fentanyl in the area where he had been spotted.
Hammond pleaded guilty on November 5, 2025, to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
“Terry Hammond demonstrated a blatant disregard for the safety of our community and the rule of law,” said U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace. “He transported over 10 kilograms of cocaine—a wholesale quantity—alongside a loaded firearm. He resisted arrest when he was caught the first time. And when he was caught the second time—reoffending while on pretrial release—he ran from the police. My office will continue to work relentlessly alongside our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who bring illegal guns and deadly drugs into Delaware.”
“Yesterday’s sentence ensures that Terry Hammond is held fully accountable for continuing to endanger our communities through armed drug trafficking, even after being granted pretrial release,” said Special Agent in Charge of HSI Philadelphia Eric McLoughlin. “This case highlights the serious threat posed by drug traffickers who carry firearms, resist arrest, and persist in their crimes despite court oversight. HSI, together with the Bridgeville Police Department, Delaware State Police, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, will continue to aggressively pursue those who bring narcotics and gun violence into Delaware neighborhoods and ensure they face the full consequences of their actions.”
The Bridgeville Police Department and Homeland Security Investigations investigated the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-55-JLH.
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Wilmington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Gun ChargeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Wilmington, Delaware, man pleaded guilty today to possessing a firearm as a prohibited individual. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika accepted the plea.
According to court documents, members of the Wilmington Police Department were on patrol in the vicinity of S. Harrison Street and Maryland Avenue when they saw a car commit traffic violations. Officers stopped the car and identified Ikeem McDole, 32, as one of the passengers in the car. McDole attempted to flee the car and was taken into custody at the scene. During a search of McDole, officers found a loaded Smith & Wesson firearm concealed in his jacket. McDole was prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition due to prior felony convictions.
McDole pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm as a prohibited person and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for July 21, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer made the announcement.
ATF, with assistance from the Wilmington Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 26-cr-004.
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Milton Man Indicted for Possessing a Firearm with an Obliterated Serial NumberRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A federal grand jury returned an indictment on March 17, 2026, charging a Milton, Delaware, man with unlawfully possessing a firearm and ammunition.
According to the indictment, on December 9, 2025, Andre Brickhouse, 34, was found in possession of a 9mm handgun with an obliterated serial number, a large-capacity magazine, and 21 rounds of ammunition. Brickhouse is prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition because of a prior felony conviction.
Brickhouse is charged with one count of possession of a firearm by a person prohibited, in violation of 18 U.S.C. §§ 922(g)(1) and 924(a)(8). If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 15 years of imprisonment. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) Baltimore Field Division made the announcement. ATF and the Laurel Police Department investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Corey J. Hauser is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-cr-45.
The charges contained in the indictment are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Two Wilmington Men Charged with Federal Fentanyl and Gun OffensesRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – Two Wilmington men were arrested March 10, 2026, for unlawfully possessing guns and over 400 grams of fentanyl.
According to court documents, Marcus Warren and Donavan McGriff, both 35, were the subjects of a drug investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the New Castle County Police Department (NCCPD).
On Tuesday, March 10, 2026, members of the DEA, NCCPD, and the Delaware State Police Special Operations Response Team executed search warrants for Warren and McGriff, their residences in Wilmington, and McGriff’s car. Both Warren and McGriff were occupants of the car at the time of the search. The car search revealed over 400 grams of fentanyl pills.
The search of Warren’s residence resulted in the recovery of approximately one kilogram of suspected fentanyl and three guns, including a privately made firearm or “ghost gun” with no serial number. The search of McGriff’s residence resulted in the recovery of an additional gun.
Warren is charged with possession with intent to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. If convicted, Warren faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 10 years in prison and a maximum penalty of life in prison.
McGriff is charged with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. If convicted, McGriff faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison.
Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and DEA Philadelphia Field Division Special Agent in Charge Thomas Hodnett made the announcement.
The DEA and NCCPD investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kevin B. Smith is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:26-mj-00120.
The charges contained in the criminal complaint are merely accusations, and the defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Brooklyn Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Cocaine ChargeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Brooklyn, New York, man pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute cocaine. U.S. District Judge Gregrory B. Williams accepted the plea.
According to court documents, New Castle County Police officers were on patrol in the area of the Christiana Mall when they saw a car commit several traffic violations. Officers stopped the car and identified Daniel Fernandez, 44, as one of the passengers. Officers called for a drug sniffing dog, which gave a positive alert to the presence of drugs in the car. During a later search of the car, officers discovered approximately 10 kilograms of cocaine, 3 pounds of methamphetamine, and over 300 grams each of heroin and fentanyl. Fernandez admitted that the drugs were his.
Fernandez pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute 5 kilograms or more of a mixture and substance containing cocaine and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for July 28, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace and DEA, Philadelphia Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Thomas Hodnett made the announcement.
The Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the New Castle County Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill is prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 26-cr-004.
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Philadelphia Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Federal Prison for Government TheftRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, man was sentenced on March 10, 2026, to 18 months in prison for stealing COVID-19 relief funds and ordered to pay $866,171 in restitution. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm F. Connolly imposed the sentence.
Congress created the Employee Retention Credit (ERC), a federal tax credit, to provide emergency financial assistance in connection with the economic effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The ERC was introduced in 2020 to incentivize businesses to continue paying employees during the pandemic. At first, the ERC provided for a 50% credit on up to $10,000 in wages per employee per calendar year for businesses that were either closed by government order or that had a 50% drop in gross receipts due to the pandemic. By 2021, the percentage credit increased to 70% per employee per quarter. To obtain ERC, entities had to file an IRS Form 941 setting forth their eligibility for ERC.
According to court documents, Andre Summerville, 55, participated in a tax scheme designed to defraud the United States out of money intended to help small businesses weather the economic fallout from the COVID-19 pandemic. Summerville, who operated a Delaware-based business, provided an associate with his personal and business information. That information was used to submit false tax forms to the IRS seeking ERC to which Summerville was not entitled. Based on those false filings, the IRS sent Summerville over $866,000 worth of checks that Summerville then deposited into his own accounts. More than $170,000 of those funds were then withdrawn in cash. Summerville also used the money to buy luxury items and to transfer tens of thousands of dollars to other people involved in the scheme.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace commented on the case, “Congress passed COVID-19 relief legislation to help hard-working Americans cope with the financial turmoil caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. It is an insult to the American taxpayer when fraudsters like Andre Summerville divert those relief funds to enable themselves to lead lives of luxury. My office and our law enforcement partners will continue to investigate and hold responsible all those who steal from the government and the American people to line their own pockets.”
“Mr. Summerville deliberately defrauded a government program designed to assist eligible businesses affected by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Philadelphia Field Office Special Agent in Charge Yury Kruty of Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI). “Yesterday’s sentencing holds Mr. Summerville accountable for his criminal actions and shows that our office will continue working to bring charges against individuals who commit these crimes.”
This case was investigated by IRS-CI. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse S. Wenger prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-127.
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Wilmington Man Sentenced to 37 Months in Federal Prison for Unlawful Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Wilmington man was sentenced today to 37 months in federal prison for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon. U.S. District Judge Maryellen Noreika imposed the sentence.
According to court documents, on June 15, 2024, Wilmington Police Department officers attempted to stop a car for a suspected illegal window tint. The driver, later identified as Andre McDougal, 45, fled from officers before losing control of his car and crashing into a commercial fence. He then reversed his car and continued fleeing until he crashed into a residential building. Police then arrested McDougal after a brief foot chase. A later lawful search of the car revealed approximately 50 rounds of ammunition. McDougal was prohibited from possessing ammunition because of multiple prior felony convictions.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace of the District of Delaware and Special Agent in Charge Charles Doerrer of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ Baltimore office made the announcement.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Laksin prosecuted the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-92-MN.
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Wilmington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Wilmington man with prior felony convictions pleaded guilty on March 3, 2026, to illegally possessing a loaded firearm. Chief U.S. District Judge Colm. F. Connolly accepted the plea.
According to court records, Mustafa Darien Wescott, 24, was approached by Wilmington Police Department officers while walking in Wilmington’s Brandywine Village neighborhood on September 29, 2024. After officers instructed him to stop, Wescott fled on foot. During a brief pursuit, Wescott pulled a loaded Ruger EC9S 9mm semi-automatic handgun from his pants pocket and threw it away before surrendering to the police. At the time of the incident, Wescott was prohibited from possessing a firearm because of multiple prior felony convictions.
Wescott pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for July 9, 2026.
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Wilmington Police Department are investigating the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 1:24-cr-116.
Marcus Evans, Inc. Agrees to Pay $2.8 Million to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Relating to Paycheck Protection Program LoansRead the Press Release
Wilmington, Del. – Marcus Evans, Inc. (“Marcus Evans”), a Delaware corporation, has agreed to pay $2,857,081.33 to resolve allegations that it improperly obtained a Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”) loan from the U.S. Small Business Administration (“SBA”) for which it was not eligible.
PPP was an emergency loan program established by Congress in March 2020 under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, and administered by the SBA. The program was created to support small businesses and to help them continue to pay employees and meet other business expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. To be eligible for a PPP loan, a business was required to certify that it had no more than 300 employees, including employees of all domestic and foreign affiliates.
Marcus Evans is part of the Marcus Evans Group, a global business intelligence and events company that provides management services including conferences, professional training, and business‑to‑business summits across a variety of industries.
On March 17, 2021, Marcus Evans applied for and received a $1,826,000 PPP loan after falsely certifying that it, together with its affiliates, had fewer than 300 employees. Marcus Evans later sought and obtained full forgiveness of that loan from SBA. Marcus Evans was ineligible for the loan, however, because together with its domestic and foreign affiliates, it had over 300 employees.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace announced the settlement. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Laksin handled the case, with assistance from Christopher J. McClintock of the SBA.
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act. Under those provisions, a private party—known as a relator—can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. In this case, the relator will receive a share of the settlement.
Individuals with information about allegations of fraud involving COVID-19 are encouraged to report it by calling the Department of Justice’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: https://www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. The settlement agreement is attached to this press release. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 25-413-CFC.
The claims resolved by the settlement are merely allegations. There has been no determination of liability.
Lewes Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Fentanyl ChargeRead the Press Release
WILMINGTON, Del. – A Lewes man pleaded guilty today to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. U.S. District Judge Jennifer L. Hall accepted the plea.
According to court documents, Brandon Barnes, 38, fled from Lewes Police during a car stop in July 2024. Barnes lost control of his car and struck a utility box before fleeing on foot. Once police caught Barnes, they found numerous blue pills marked “M30” scattered across the floor and driver’s seat of the car, as well as blue pills between the car and where police arrested Barnes. Police ultimately recovered over 500 pressed fentanyl pills.
Barnes pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. Actual sentences for federal crimes are typically less than the maximum penalties. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after taking into account the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Sentencing is scheduled for July 15, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Benjamin L. Wallace made the announcement. The Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from Lewes Police Department, investigated the case. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Michelle Thurstlic-O’Neill and Samuel S. Frey are prosecuting the case.
A copy of this press release is located on the website of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Delaware. Related court documents and information are located on the website of the District Court for the District of Delaware or on PACER by searching for Case No. 24-cr-122.