Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Six-Time Felon Sentenced for Illegal Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Carlos E. Mendoza has sentenced Rico Allen Gandy (47, Orlando) to four years and three months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The court also ordered Gandy to forfeit the firearm and ammunition, which are related to the offense. Gandy pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025.
According to court documents, Gandy was a passenger in a vehicle that was stopped by the Orlando Police Department’s Tactical Anti-Crime Unit. After initially refusing to stop, the driver pulled over and Gandy attempted to walk away from the scene. Gandy was detained by officers who later recovered a bag that he had left on the floorboard of the vehicle. Inside the bag was his Gandy’s Florida identification card, several baggies of crack cocaine, MDMA, marijuana, and a loaded 9mm Springfield pistol. Gandy is a six-time convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Orlando Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Michael P. Felicetta and Courtney Richardson-Jones.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Wife of Central Florida Methamphetamine Dealer Pleads Guilty to Laundering Hundreds of Thousands in Drug ProceedsRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Island Tri Truong (41, Orlando) today pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit concealment money laundering in relation to drug distribution proceeds. Truong faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Truong’s husband, George Pherai Bogeajis, was sentenced on November 13, 2024, to more than 19 years in federal prison for drug distribution.
According to the plea agreement, on April 9, 2024, the Drug Enforcement Administration executed a search warrant at Truong and Pherai Bogeajis’s home in Orlando. Agents seized more than 51 kilograms of methamphetamine, various amounts of cocaine, MDMA and fentanyl, multiple firearms, and $717,480 in cash proceeds from drug distribution. A financial investigation revealed that Truong had laundered an estimated $766,000 in drug proceeds in the four years leading up to that search. Truong and Pherai Bogeajis deposited hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash into various bank accounts and lived a lifestyle far beyond their reported incomes.
While in Paris in 2023, Truong used another individual to purchase a gold Rolex wristwatch for 40,700 Euros (estimated $44,000 USD) while she reported earning only $21,090 during that year. Truong also avoided depositing cash into her and Pherai Bogeajis’s bank accounts by delivering thousands of dollars in cash to friends and acquaintances who then transferred that money to Truong from their bank accounts. In one transaction, Truong delivered $40,000 to an acquaintance who transferred the same amount to the construction company building her and Pherai Bogeajis’s home on Bearle Road. Truong then advised her friend to deposit the $40,000 into her bank in $9,000 increments over the course of months to avoid triggering bank and law enforcement scrutiny.
As part of her plea agreement, Truong has agreed to forfeit two properties, including one property valued at approximately $838,000, and two luxury watches – all of which were purchased with proceeds of the drug distribution activities and were used to conceal the origin of those funds
This case was investigated by the IRS Criminal Investigation Money Laundering Task Force, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Orange County Sheriff's Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Dana E. Hill and Jennifer Harrington.
Texas Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Creating AI Child Sexual Abuse ImagesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Daniel Weatherly (42, Brownwood, TX) to two years in federal prison for possession of an obscene visual depiction of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The court also ordered Weatherly to serve three years of supervised release and to have no contact with minors following his prison sentence. Weatherly pleaded guilty on January 8, 2025.
According to court documents, Weatherly used an application on his cellphone to create “AI” images of minors engaged in sexually explicit conduct. The application specifically allowed users to create high-quality visuals based upon word prompts, which Weatherly used to specify exactly what child sexual abuse images he desired. Weatherly’s prompts included age ranges between five and eight years old engaging in various sexual activity.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with substantial assistance from the North Port Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Erin Claire Favorit and Abigail K. King.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Jury Convicts Mexican National for Trafficking Methamphetamine in Hillsborough and Manatee CountiesRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Lorenzo Valerio-Popoca (31, Mexico) guilty of two counts of conspiring to traffic methamphetamine. Valerio-Popoca faces a minimum of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison on each count. His sentencing hearing is set for October 29, 2025.
According to testimony presented at trial, Valerio-Popoca brokered and coordinated the delivery of a half kilogram of methamphetamine in Palmetto. On March 30, 2018, Valerio-Popoca then brokered and coordinated the delivery of 2 kilograms of methamphetamine in Sun City Center. Valerio-Popoca remained a fugitive until November 2022, when he was arrested for trafficking 10 kilograms of methamphetamine in Pasadena, Texas.
Half kilogram of methamphetamine from January 29, 2018
2 kilograms of methamphetamine recovered from March 30, 2018
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Pasadena (Texas) Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David J. Pardo.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Aidan Francis Akins (31, Jacksonville) to 10 years in federal prison for receipt of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Akins pleaded guilty on October 2, 2024.
According to court documents, during April 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Jacksonville received information from an undercover investigation of a social media chat application about a user offering to sell CSAM. Further investigation led law enforcement to Akins, who was purchasing CSAM.
On June 16, 2023, an HSI special agent obtained a federal search warrant for Akin’s residence. When law enforcement searched his home, Akins was present and agreed to speak with law enforcement. Akins admitted he was in contact with an individual who had CSAM for sale and acknowledged purchasing CSAM from that individual on multiple occasions. When asked if CSAM would be discovered on his phone, Akins stated, “Yes, there may still be some in there, yes.” Akins said he knew possessing and viewing CSAM is illegal and admitted to viewing CSAM approximately every 2 to 4 weeks.
“The possession, trading, and viewing of child sexual abuse material from the darkest corners of the internet, makes these child predators complicit in the ongoing victimization of children,” said Homeland Security Investigation Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge Tim Hemker. “HSI, alongside our state and local partners, are committed to protecting children, hold their offenders accountable, and stop the cycle of harm these images perpetuate forever.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to More Than Eight Years for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced William Thomas Hogan (35, Jacksonville) to eight years and one month in federal prison for receipt of child sexual abuse materials (CSAM). Hogan pleaded guilty on April 10, 2025.
According to court documents, in December 2023, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) began an investigation into reports regarding CSAM in a cloud account. An HSI special agent applied for and obtained a federal search warrant for the content in that cloud account. The account was associated with Hogan’s phone number and the contents included multiple files of CSAM.
On November 15, 2024, an HSI agent approached Hogan as he walked to his vehicle in a parking lot. The agent explained to Hogan that she wanted to talk to him about an investigation. Hogan agreed to talk to the agent. When asked how much CSAM was on his cellphone, Hogan said, “I imagine there’s probably a bit.” Hogan admitted to having a mixture of CSAM and provided consent to search his phone. A a review of the phone confirmed that it contained multiple video files of CSAM. Hogan acknowledged he saved the CSAM in a location on his cellphone to keep them protected. He also admitted to receiving CSAM via social media applications in group chats and direct messages.
“Every click, every download of child sexual abuse material is a crime against a child, evidence of real abuse that’s fueling a cycle of lifelong trauma,” said Homeland Security Investigation Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge Tim Hemker. “HSI will use every tool at our disposal to find these predators, hold them accountable for their heinous actions, and break the perpetual cycle of child victimization.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ashley Washington.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
St. Pete Man Pleads Guilty to Production of Child Sexual Abuse Material and Attempted Enticement of A Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that David Araujo (57, St. Petersburg) has pleaded guilty to production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) and attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Araujo faces a minimum sentence of 15 years, up to 30 years, in federal prison for the production offense and a minimum prison sentence of 10 years, up to life, for the attempted enticement offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, in July 2024, an undercover officer from the Ocala Police Department posed online as a 14-year-old prostitute (UC). Araujo messaged the UC and, after learning the UC’s age, engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with the UC. During the conversation, Araujo described to the UC a prior relationship he had had with another minor. Araujo was arrested by law enforcement when he drove from St. Petersburg to Marion County to meet with the UC to engage in sexual activity. A search of Araujo’s cellphone revealed he had produced CSAM with the previous minor victim on September 25, 2023.
This case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
South Florida Man Sentenced to 14 Months in Prison for Smuggling Fentanyl and Other Contraband into PrisonRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Jose Santos Pardo (25, Homestead) to 14 months in federal prison for possession of contraband by a federal inmate. Santos Pardo pleaded guilty on March 25, 2025.
According to court records, Santos Pardo was an inmate at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman) in 2022. He was assigned to a low security section of the prison where inmates are not confined by fencing. On the night of November 19, 2022, a correctional officer saw Santos Pardo running along the side of the road carrying two duffle bags and a trash bag. Staff members confronted Santos Pardo and searched the bags which contained drugs, tobacco, alcohol, and cellphones. During an interview with law enforcement, Santos Pardo admitted that he had picked up the bags from the road to bring them back to his housing unit. Inmates are prohibited from possessing these items because they threaten the order, discipline, and security of the prison, as well as the life, health, and safety of federal prisoners and staff.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
Six DeLand Men Sentenced for Trafficking Military-Grade Firearms to Mexican Drug CartelsRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that six individuals have been sentenced to federal prison terms for their roles in a firearms trafficking conspiracy.
See chart below:
Name
(Age, City of Residence)
ChargesNumber of Firearms PurchasedSentence ImposedAngel Velazquez Delgado
(34, DeLand)
Firearms trafficking
Straw purchasing
109 yearsJesus Hernandez
(32, DeLand)
Straw purchasing103 years, 10 monthsEdgar Jimenez
(30, DeLand)
Straw purchasing53 yearsJesus Paulino
(27, DeLand)
Straw purchasing42 yearsJonathan Borja
(23, DeLando)
Straw purchasing21 year, 6 monthsJesus Andres
(28, DeLand)
Making a false statement on firearm transaction record21 year, 6 monthsAccording to court documents, in May 2023, investigators with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) began investigating a firearms trafficking organization operating in the Middle District of Florida. The organization was comprised of at least six individuals and led by Angel Velazquez Delgado. The conspirators purchased high-caliber firearms in the United States for resale to Mexican drug cartels. These cartels were and are criminal organizations engaged in the trafficking of controlled substances into the United States.
The trafficked firearms included high-caliber, armor-piercing, and anti-material weapons. For example, approximately 11 of the firearms trafficked by this organization included Barrett .50 caliber rifles, which can expel a very accurate, heavy, and fast-moving projectile that defeats all individually worn body armor, can penetrate and disable vehicles, aircraft, boats, and can even defeat some types of protection provided by armored vehicles. These rifles are highly sought after by the cartels in their efforts to control large territories. The organization also trafficked approximately 16 FN M249S rifles, which are sold in the United States as a semi-automatic weapon but are easily converted into a machinegun. The firearms were purchased at the request of the cartels and transported to the cartels soon after purchase.
Using the eTrace Firearm Recovery Notification Program, Mexican authorities were able to confirm the presence of at least one of the trafficked firearms in Mexico. On March 22, 2023, Mexican State Police and Mexican Military personnel were involved in a shootout with suspected members of the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación in Zitacuaro, Michoacan, Mexico. Two individuals were killed during the exchange of gunfire. After the shooting, a Barrett, model 82A1, .50 caliber rifle purchased by Jesus Hernandez on November 8, 2022, was recovered. At some point, members of the firearms trafficking conspiracy began removing the serial numbers from the firearms prior to shipment.
“Dismantling this Central Florida-based firearms trafficking ring is a huge win for public safety in Mexico and America,” said Tampa Field Division’s Special Agent in Charge Kirk Howard. “The CJNG is a notoriously brutal transnational criminal organization designated as a foreign terrorist organization that now has less fuel for its violent criminal activities, thanks to this joint team.”
“The investigation and prosecution of violent crime is one of the top priorities of my District,” said U.S. Attorney Kehoe. “These individuals have trafficked high-caliber, military-grade weapons into the hands of dangerous Mexican cartel members and thus have caused a serious risk to the health and safety of others. My office, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to work to hold those who jeopardize public safety accountable for their crimes.”
This case was investigated by the ATF, Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the Volusia Bureau of Investigations, and the DeLand Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Rachel Lyons and Noah Dorman.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Registered Sex Offender Indicted for Attempting to Meet A 13-Year-Old to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of a two-count indictment charging Trevor Hedge (56, Ocala) with attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity and committing a felony offense involving a minor as a registered sex offender. If convicted on all counts, Hedge faces a minimum penalty of 20 years, up to life, in federal prison. Hedge is currently detained pending the resolution of his case.
According to the indictment and court records, in May 2025, a deputy from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office posed online as a 13-year-old child (UC). Hedge messaged the UC and, after learning the UC’s age, engaged in a sexually explicit conversation. Hedge and the UC agreed to meet at a predetermined location in Marion County to engage in sexual activity. Hedge was arrested by law enforcement when he arrived at that location.
Hedge is a registered sex offender. He was convicted of first-degree sexual assault in 1993.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Osceola Man Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud Scheme Relating to Federal Criminal ForfeitureRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Levelle Joseph Harris (38, Kissimmee) has pleaded guilty to four counts of wire fraud. Harris faces up to 20 years in federal prison on each count. Harris is also facing a forfeiture order of $640,911.85, which represents the total proceeds he obtained through his fraudulent conduct. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court records, Harris previously committed wire fraud in 2020 by fraudulently obtaining $1,283,029.81 in COVID relief funds. He then used some of the stolen funds to purchase a residential property. Harris was federally prosecuted and convicted of 14 counts of wire fraud relating to that conduct. The United States then sought the forfeiture of the residential property Harris had purchased with the stolen COVID relief funds. Before his sentencing in that case, Harris claimed he had sold the property and gave the proceeds to the United States. Agents later determined, however, that the sale was unlawful. Between February 7, 2022, and January 31, 2023, Harris devised another fraudulent scheme to avoid paying the criminal forfeiture by obtaining a mortgage on the property through false representations. He used the fraudulent mortgage proceeds to purchase the residence and pay off his criminal forfeiture. Through Harris’s mortgage fraud scheme, he fraudulently obtained another $640,911.85.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Harrington.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by visiting the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Ocala Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Johnardo Davis (42, Ocala) to 25 years in federal prison for distributing and conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and other drugs. Davis pleaded guilty on April 11, 2025.
According to documents and information presented in court, the Drug Enforcement Administration conducted controlled buys from Davis on July 29 and August 15, 2024. Each purchase involved more than two kilograms of methamphetamine. On December 10, 2024, agents searched Davis’s apartment and storage unit and located numerous items indicative of drug sales, including several pounds of marijuana, more than 600 grams of cocaine, and nearly $9,000 in cash.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tyrie K. Boyer.
This case was part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Mount Dora Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing and Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Brett Eugene Baldwin (43, Mount Dora) to 15 years in federal prison for possessing and receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Baldwin was found guilty on March 27, 2025, following a trial.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on November 28, 2023, Baldwin’s cellphone was seized during an unrelated state investigation. Pursuant to a search warrant, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE) reviewed the contents of the cellphone and discovered thousands of files depicting CSAM, primarily of young children. After his first cellphone was seized by law enforcement, Baldwin obtained a second one. The second cellphone was later seized by law enforcement and searched pursuant to a warrant. Agents discovered that Baldwin had again downloaded thousands of files depicting CSAM onto the replacement cellphone.
“Our communities are safer today with this child predator off the streets,” said HSI Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “This is an example of effective collaboration with Homeland Security Investigations and our law enforcement partners.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Mount Dora Police Department, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Mexican National Indicted for Attempted Enticement of A Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Cain Matias Godinez (42, Mexico) with attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. If convicted, Matias Godinez faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. Matias Godinez is currently detained pending the resolution of this criminal case.
According to the indictment and court records, in May 2025, a detective with the Marion County Sheriff’s Office posed online as a 13-year-old girl (UC). Matias Godinez communicated with the UC, and after learning the UC’s age, engaged in a sexually explicit conversation. Matias Godinez and the UC agreed to meet at a location in Marion County to engage in sexual activity. When Matias Godinez arrived at the location, he was arrested by law enforcement.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Marion County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lake County Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Bryce Fleetwood (26, Clermont) to 25 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for receiving child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Fleetwood pleaded guilty on February 27, 2025.
According to court documents, Fleetwood’s cellphone was seized by law enforcement during an unrelated state investigation. A search of the phone revealed 850 videos and 120 photos depicting CSAM, primarily of very young children. Investigators further determined that Fleetwood had received CSAM over the internet on two occasions in 2022.
“You can’t hide from our Homeland Security Investigations special agents and our law enforcement partners,” said HSI Orlando Assistant Special Agent in Charge David Pezzutti. “Another child predator off our streets.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
It is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lake County Man Pleads Guilty to Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that John Don Bannister, Jr. (31, Clermont) has pleaded guilty to two counts of production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Bannister faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to 30 years, in federal prison on each count. Bannister is currently detained pending sentencing. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, on April 26 and May 4, 2023, in Lake County, Bannister produced CSAM with a 14-year-old child. An investigation by law enforcement showed that Bannister had been supplying vape pens and drugs to minors. In return for these items, Bannister asked the minors to provide him nude images and videos of themselves.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Mascotte Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lake County Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Entice A 13-Year-Old to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Kahlil Yanier Amilivia Rodriguez (27, Groveland) has pleaded guilty to attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Rodriguez faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement and court records, on October 5, 2023, Rodriguez had an online conversation with an undercover law enforcement officer posing as a 13-year-old girl. Rodriguez graphically described to the fictional child the sexual acts he wanted to perform with her. Rodriguez was arrested when he arrived at a pre-determined location to meet with the minor to engage in the sexual activity.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Lake County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lake County Convicted Felon Facing up to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing A FirearmRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Kevin Eugene Leeks, Jr. (34, Leesburg) has been arrested on an indictment charging him with one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. If convicted, Leeks faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.
According to the indictment, Leeks has been a convicted felon since 2013. He has two prior felony convictions, including robbery with a deadly weapon. As a convicted felon, Leeks is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law. On July 13, 2019, Leeks possessed a firearm and ammunition.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Lake County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN).
Federal Jury Finds Registered Sex Offender Guilty of Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Daniel N. Pulley (59, St. Petersburg) guilty of production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), attempted coercion or enticement of a minor, coercion or enticement of a minor, possession of CSAM, and penalties for registered sex offenders. Pulley faces a maximum penalty of life in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 29, 2025.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Pulley was a registered sex offender following a 2009 federal conviction for possession of child pornography. In 2022, he used a social media app to communicate with a teenage minor online, coercing her to produce CSAM for him and detailing different ways he wanted to sexually abuse her. Pulley also possessed various images and videos of CSAM on his cellphone, including depictions of young children.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Probation Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Abigail K. King and Muriel Moore.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify, rescue, and seek justice for child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Federal Jury Convicts Wildwood Man of Attempting to Entice A 13-Year-Old Child to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Joseph Dibello (48, Wildwood) guilty of attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. Dibello faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is set for October 17, 2025.
According to evidence presented at trial, on July 23, 2024, Dibello attempted to meet with a 13-year-old girl for sex. Dibello did not realize that he was corresponding with an undercover detective from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office who was posing as a minor on a website. After sending multiple text messages in which he expressed his intention to have sex with the minor, Dibello agreed to meet her at a gas station in Marion County. When he arrived, Dibello realized the meeting was a law enforcement operation. He fled the scene, leading deputies on a high-speed chase that exceeded 100 mph. Dibello was later apprehended at his girlfriend’s home in Wildwood. Dibello later admitted that he was the person who had been corresponding with the minor and that he had intended to have sex with her.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, the Sumter County Sheriff’s Office, and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Tyrie K. Boyer.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Brevard County Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge John Antoon II has sentenced Christopher Fitzgerald Spivey, Jr. (41, Melbourne) to 20 years in federal prison for distributing controlled substances. The court also ordered Spivey to forfeit $10,500, the proceeds of his drug distribution. Spivey pleaded guilty on March 6, 2025.
According to the court records, on four occasions between November 5 and December 10, 2024, Spivey distributed fentanyl and methamphetamine to a confidential source. Following Spivey’s arrest, a search warrant was executed at his residence where law enforcement recovered additional fentanyl, drug processing materials, and five firearms. In total, Spivey was responsible for distributing or possessing with intent to distribute more than 1.2 kilograms of pure methamphetamine and over 130 grams of fentanyl.
Prior to Spivey’s conduct in this investigation, he was convicted of a aggravated assault upon a law enforcement officer, which subjected him to enhanced penalties.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Megan Testerman.
Tampa Man and Woman Indicted for Forcibly Assaulting and Impeding Federal AgentRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Alfredo Javier Fuentes (22, Tampa) and Luz Mary Vasquez Cruz (45, Tampa) with forcibly assaulting, resisting, or impeding a federal officer or employee. If convicted, Fuentes and Cruz each face a maximum penalty of eight years in federal prison.
According to court records, on July 15, 2025, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) agents were investigating a Honduran national for immigration-related matters at a residence in Tampa when Vasquez and Cruz placed themselves between agents and the subject of the investigation. Vasquez and Cruz shoved an HSI agent backwards, allowing the subject to flee into the residence.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.
Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to COVID Relief FraudRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Marina Tusca Brooks Stewart (62, Groveland) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud related to COVID relief. Stewart faces up to 20 years in federal prison. She is also facing a forfeiture order of $10,000, which represents the proceeds she obtained through this offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, during the COVID pandemic, the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) offered Targeted Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) Advances that did not need to be repaid. The advances were for small businesses that were in low-income communities and received a reduction in revenue of more than 30% during an eight-week period. Between June 28 and 30, 2020, Brooks devised a scheme to defraud the SBA by electronically applying for an EIDL advance and providing false representations in her application. Based on her false representations, Stewart fraudulently received a $10,000 EIDL advance.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service - Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by visiting the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice. gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to COVID Relief FraudRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Kenneth Tyrone Jackson (59, Ocala) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud related to COVID relief. Jackson faces up to 20 years in federal prison. He is also facing a forfeiture order of $19,333, which represents the proceeds he obtained through this offense. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to court documents, during the COVID pandemic, the United States Small Business Administration (SBA) offered loans to small businesses under the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Between March 18 and April 1, 2021, Jackson devised a scheme to defraud the SBA by applying for a PPP loan with false representations. Jackson claimed that he owned a landscaping business that made $99,675 in 2019, which was not true. Jackson also provided the SBA with a fraudulent IRS tax form as proof of this reported income. Based on his false representations, Jackson fraudulently received a $19,333 loan from the SBA.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Service - Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID can report it by visiting the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www. justice. gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Ocala Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Transfer Obscene Material to A MinorRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Nicholas Robert Davis (30, Ocala) has pleaded guilty to attempting to transfer obscene material to a minor. Davis faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing is set for August 22, 2025.
According to court documents, during an undercover operation on July 24, 2024, a Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agent posed as a 13-year-old girl (UC) and received a message on an online social media platform from Davis. After learning the UC’s age, Davis and an undercover detective from the Marion County Sheriff’s Office, also posing as the minor, had a video call. Davis exposed his genitalia during the call and, afterward, engaged in a sexually explicit conversation with the UC. He also sent the UC an explicit video himself.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to 20 YearsRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Alfred Denmark, Jr. (49, Reddick) to 20 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute more than 400 grams of fentanyl and 500 grams of cocaine, distribution of more than 500 grams of cocaine, and possession of two firearms by a convicted felon. The court also ordered Denmark to forfeit $186,220 in cash, a Highpoint rifle, a Highpoint 45mm pistol, and ammunition, which are traceable to proceeds of the drug offenses and that he possessed as part of the criminal activity. Denmark pleaded guilty on April 22, 2025.
According to court documents, during an ongoing investigation on September 7, 2023, Denmark distributed a kilogram of cocaine to an individual named Tasha Ervin. Deputies from the Pasco Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on Ervin later that day after she left Denmark’s residence. The deputies arrested Ervin and seized the cocaine. Later during the investigation, on November 12, 2024, law enforcement agents executed a search warrant at Denmark’s residence. During the search, agents located more than 12 kilograms of fentanyl, 3 kilograms of cocaine, a rifle, a pistol, and $186,200 in cash.
Ervin pleaded guilty to her role in this case. She was sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team (UDEST), and the Marion County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney A. Tysen Duva.
West Melbourne Man Sentenced to 15 Years on Fentanyl and Methamphetamine ChargesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger today sentenced Darrell Lamar Corbin (35, West Melbourne) to 15 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine. Corbin pleaded guilty on January 3, 2025.
According to court documents, Corbin possessed and intended to distribute over 400 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and over 5 grams of methamphetamine. These drugs were found throughout Corbin’s apartment after law enforcement executed a search warrant at the home. Law enforcement also seized drug distribution paraphernalia, including digital scales, pill presses, and an electronic money counter from the apartment.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the West Melbourne Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert D. Sowell.
St. Johns County Man Indicted for $2 Million Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return of an indictment charging Eric James Stone (42, St. Augustine) with 10 counts of fraud (wire and mail) and 5 counts of money laundering. If convicted, each fraud charge carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison and each money laundering charge carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison.
According to court documents, Stone was fired from Fidelity Investments in June 2021 due to allegations that Stone had solicited and obtained loans from his clients. After Stone was terminated, he began to solicit money from his former clients by way of personal loans. Stone promised to repay the loans but never did. After one victim provided loan proceeds to Stone, she was advised that there was an investigation into the funds and Stone had incurred costs and fees that also needed to be paid before Stone could repay her. Stone created fake email accounts, sent fake text messages, and pretended to hire attorneys to further defraud the victim. In total, the victim paid Stone more than $2 million that he used to fund gambling activities, personal travel, and satisfy personal debts.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by the Internal Revenue Service—Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Secret Service, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, and the Florida Department of Corrections. This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.
If you believe that you may have been victimized by Eric Stone, please contact the FBI-Jacksonville Office at 904-248-7000 or visit https://tips.fbi.gov/home.
IndictmentJacksonville Convicted Child Sex Offender Indicted for Using the Internet to Access Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Matthew Eric Baumgardner (49, Jacksonville) has been arrested and charged by indictment for using the internet to access child sexual abuse materials. If convicted, Baumgardner faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison and a potential lifetime term of supervised release. He was arrested on July 28, 2025, and has been ordered detained pending trial.
Baumgardner is a registered child sex offender who was convicted in 2017 of possessing photographs depicting the sexual performance by a child, traveling to meet a minor for unlawful activity, and unlawful use of a two-way communication device.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This is another case brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify, rescue, and seek justice for child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Federal Correctional Officer Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Federal Prison for Accepting Bribes and Introducing Contraband into PrisonRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – United States District Judge Thomas P. Barber has sentenced Samuel Brandon Smith (38, Ocala) to three years and one month in federal prison receipt of a bribe by a public official and providing contraband to a federal prisoner. The court also ordered Smith to forfeit $43,901, which represents the proceeds of these offenses. Smith pleaded guilty in February 2025.
According to court records, Smith was a correctional officer with the Federal Bureau of Prisons (BOP) and worked at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman) in Sumter County. As an employee of a government agency, Smith was a “public official” under federal law. Between December 18, 2023, and September 4, 2024, Smith received $43,901 in bribes to smuggle contraband into FCC Coleman for inmates. On September 4, 2024, when Smith reported to work at FCC Coleman, staff members searched him and found 668 grams of marijuana and other controlled substances hidden within his duty vest. Smith was smuggling this contraband into the facility with the intent to distribute it to federal prisoners in exchange for monetary payments.
This case was investigated by the United States Department of Justice - Office of the Inspector General and the Federal Bureau of Prisons. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
Drug Trafficker Sentenced to More Than 15 Years for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Kevin Ray Marcano (37, Cambridge, MA) to 15 years and 8 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, specifically 500 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine. Marcano pleaded guilty on April 22, 2025.
According to court documents, in March 2022, Marcano began supplying methamphetamine across the country by shipping multi-pound packages to known customers, including an individual in Jacksonville. From March 2022 to July 2023, Marcano sent approximately 5 packages each containing about 10 pounds of methamphetamine to the Jacksonville customer. In September 2023, the same individual called Marcano and ordered another shipment of four pounds of methamphetamine in exchange for $4,900. Within five days of placing the order from Marcano, the four-pound shipment of methamphetamine arrived.
“This criminal was responsible to shipping large quantities of methamphetamine across the country, fueling addiction and poisoning communities far beyond his own,” said Homeland Security Investigations Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge Tim Hemker. “Thanks to the dedicated efforts of HSI and FBI special agents, this individual’s nationwide narcotics distribution network has been dismantled.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelly S. Milliron.
Three El Salvadoran Nationals Sentenced for $146 Million Construction Payroll Scheme That Defrauded the IRS and Workers’ Compensation InsurersRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Senior U.S. District Judge Timothy J. Corrigan today sentenced Eduardo Anibal Escobar (45), Carlos Alberto Rodriguez (36), and Adelmy Tejada (57), all residents of Orlando, for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit tax fraud. Escobar was sentenced to 4 years and 9 months in prison, Rodriguez was sentenced to 3 years and 4 months in prison, and Tejada was sentenced to 18 months in prison plus 6 months of home detention. Each pleaded guilty on April 3, 2025.
The court ordered the defendants to pay $36,957,616 in restitution to the IRS for unpaid payroll taxes and a total of $397,895 in restitution to two insurance companies for workers’ compensation claims they paid out.
Escobar and Rodriguez are legal permanent residents from El Salvador. Tejada is a naturalized U.S. citizen from El Salvador.
According to court documents and information presented in court, from approximately January 2015 through August 2024, the defendants conspired to facilitate the payment of construction workers “off the books” to avoid paying payroll taxes and workers’ compensation insurance premiums. The scheme also facilitated the employment of undocumented workers who were not legally authorized to work in the United States.
The defendants, through their companies—T. Escobar Construction and C. Escobar Construction—entered into agreements with hundreds of construction subcontractors to enable the subcontractors to obtain contracts with, and perform work for, construction contractors. In exchange for 6 to 8 percent of the subcontractors’ payroll, the defendants caused certificates of insurance in the name of the defendants’ companies to be sent to construction contractors from which the subcontractors wished to obtain work, representing that the subcontractors worked for their companies and were covered by the companies’ workers’ compensation insurance.
In fact, the companies’ insurance policies were based on applications representing that the policies would cover a handful of employees and a minimal payroll. As a result of the defendants’ using their certificate of insurance to represent that the subcontractors worked for their companies, the insurers unwittingly covered hundreds of workers.
A total of $146,077,535 in payroll checks were deposited into the bank accounts of the defendants’ companies, from which they withdrew cash to pay the subcontractors’ workers, after subtracting their 6 to 8 percent fee—all without withholding, or paying over, payroll taxes to the IRS. As a result, the U.S. Treasury lost $36,957,616 in unpaid payroll taxes. The defendants’ scheme allowed the construction contractors and subcontractors to disclaim responsibility for paying payroll taxes to the IRS, for ensuring that adequate workers’ compensation insurance was obtained, and for verifying that the workers were legally authorized to work in the United States.
“This case highlights how federal and state agencies are working together to successfully investigate and assist in the prosecution of individuals who engage in illegal financial schemes to enrich themselves,” said Special Agent in Charge Ron Loecker, IRS-Criminal Investigation Tampa Field Office. “IRS Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Florida Department of Financial Services collaborated our resources to bring down a criminal enterprise that facilitated unfair competition by defrauding workers’ compensation insurers and evading their obligation to pay federal taxes.”
“These criminals defrauded the government by dodging payroll taxes and exploited vulnerable workers by not carrying proper insurance,” said Homeland Security Investigations Jacksonville Assistant Special Agent in Charge Tim Hemker. “Unscrupulous and illegal tactics in the construction industry damage the integrity of law-abiding contractors, and that price is eventually passed on to the consumer. These sentences are a testament to the persevering investigative work of HSI special agents and our partners with IRS Criminal Investigation and the Florida Department of Financial Services.”
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Florida Department of Financial Services. It is part of a continuing investigation by these agencies of the use of shell companies and “ghost” employees in the construction industry. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier. The asset forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer M. Harrington.
Oklahoma Felon Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing Loaded FirearmRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, FL – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Andre Dominique Barnes (35, Lehigh Acres) to three years and six months in federal prison for possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon. The court also ordered Barnes to forfeit the firearm and ammunition he possessed during the offense. Barnes pleaded guilty on April 9, 2025.
According to court documents, on September 20, 2024, Barnes was stopped by the Florida Highway Patrol in Lee County for speeding. He was identified by his Oklahoma identification card and had a suspended driver license. Upon search of his vehicle, troopers located a loaded pistol. Court records show that Barnes was previously convicted of multiple felony offenses in Oklahoma. As a convicted felon, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Florida Highway Patrol and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Mark Morgan.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Multi-Time Convicted Burglar Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell has sentenced Luis Miguel Alvizures (33, Guatemala) to two years in federal prison—the statutory maximum sentence—for illegally reentering the United States following deportation. Alvizures pleaded guilty on May 7, 2025.
According to court documents and information presented during the sentencing hearing, Alvizures, an alien and citizen of Guatemala, was deported from the United States in 2017. Following his deportation, Alvizures illegally reentered the country. While unlawfully present in the United States, Alvizures committed a string of burglaries of local businesses for which he was later convicted in state court. Should he return to the United States illegally in the future, Alvizures could face up to 10 years in federal prison.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin S. Winter.
Honduran National Pleads Guilty to Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Elmer Modesto Rodriguez Amador (41, Honduras) today pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft. Amador faces a penalty of two years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set.
According to the plea agreement, Archer Western-de Moya Group Joint Venture II (Joint Venture) is enrolled in E-Verify, a web-based system through which employers electronically confirm the employment eligibility of their employees. E-Verify is administered by the Social Security Administration (SSA) and U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The SSA and USCIS verify the submitted information against the records of actual persons who are authorized to work in the United States. E-Verify is a voluntary program for employers and requires documents such as a Social Security card and photo identification of a prospective employee. From 2019 through at least 2022, Amador used the means of identification of other persons to defeat the E-Verify system, obtain employment at the Joint Venture, and to commit the felony offenses of misuse of a Social Security number and false claim of United States citizenship for employment purposes.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Department of Transportation – Office of Inspector General, the Social Security Administration – Office of the Inspector General, the United States Border Patrol, the Department of Labor – Office of Inspector General, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher F. Murray.
Guatemalan National Sentenced to 21 Months in Federal Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul Byron has sentenced Jorge Mendez-Bamaca (33, Guatemala) to 21 months in federal prison for illegally reentering the United States after deportation. Mendez-Bamaca entered a guilty plea on April 21, 2025.
According to court records, Mendez-Bamaca, a citizen of Guatemala, was convicted in Florida state court of fleeing or attempting to elude siren lights on November 24, 2015, possession of cocaine on May 1, 2018, and lewd and lascivious molestation on November 15, 2018. As a result of his conviction of lewd and lascivious molestation, Mendez-Bamaca was required to register as a sex offender. Mendez-Bamaca was deported from the United States on February 26, 2019.
Mendez-Bamaca was arrested on January 16, 2025, by the Seminole County Sheriff’s Office for driving without a valid license and giving false identification to law enforcement. After his arrest, law enforcement learned that Mendez-Bamaca was present in the United States illegally and that he had not registered as a sex offender in Florida.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diane Hu.
Guatemalan National Sentenced to 19 Years in Federal Prison for Dealing Methamphetamine and CocaineRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger today sentenced Augusto Rene Reyes-Gonzalez (37, Orlando), a/k/a “Zorro,” to 19 years and 7 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute cocaine and methamphetamine and illegal reentry after prior deportation. Reyes-Gonzalez pleaded guilty to illegal reentry on April 18, 2025. Three days later, on the first day of trial, he pleaded guilty to the remaining charges. On May 21, 2025, co-conspirator Calos Grijalva-Garcia was sentenced to 18 months and co-conspirator Brandon Charod Smith was sentenced to 21 years and 10 months.
According to court documents, from August through December 2023, Reyes-Gonzalez served as a connection for a law enforcement confidential informant, offering “[w]hatever drug you want I can get it, whatever you ask for. If you want fentanyl I can get it. . . I get whatever nasty thing you want.” In five separate transactions, Reyes-Gonzalez helped the law enforcement source purchase cocaine through Grijalva-Garcia. On four separate occasions, Reyes-Gonzalez facilitated the sale of several pounds of methamphetamine sold by Smith, along with a firearm sold by another supplier.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and U.S. Customs and Border Patrol, with assistance from the FBI, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, and the Rockledge Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brandon Cruz, Megan Testerman, and Dana E. Hill.
Convicted Felon Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Possessing A PistolRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Terrence Jennings (47, Jacksonville) to 18 months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon. Jennings pleaded guilty on April 23, 2025.
According to court records, on May 28, 2024, Jennings was arrested by officers from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office (JSO) for failure to pay child support. The officers first encountered Jennings sleeping on a couch. When the officers woke Jennings, they observed a firearm in his waistband. Jennings was handcuffed and a loaded Smith & Wesson 9mm pistol was removed from his waistband. When the officers checked Jennings’s criminal history, they discovered he had previous felony convictions, including fleeing to elude a police officer, possession of cocaine, and possession of a firearm on school grounds. As a convicted felon, Jennings is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Frank Talbot.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Venezuelan National Indicted for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the arrest of Alexander Jose Barreto-Rodriguez (31, Venezuela) on an indictment charging him with distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM). If convicted, Barreto-Rodriguez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 5 years, up to 20 years, in federal prison. He was indicted on July 23, 2025. His case is set for trial in September 2025, before United States District Judge Wendy W. Berger.
According to court documents, Barreto-Rodriguez distributed CSAM using various messaging applications in December 2024. These videos depicted children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. In addition to distributing the CSAM, Barreto-Rodriguez advised a confidential source working for law enforcement that he could arrange for various female children from ages 8 to 13 to engage in sexually explicit conduct.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Flager County Sheriff’s Office, and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Armed Drug Cocaine Trafficker Convicted at TrialRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that a federal jury has found Georgelys Natal Vazquez (29, Hudson) guilty of conspiracy to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Natal Vazquez faces a maximum penalty of 40 years in federal prison on the conspiracy charge and a consecutive term of at least 5 years’ imprisonment for the firearm offense. Her sentencing hearing is scheduled for October 28, 2025. Natal Vazquez was charged in a superseding indictment on March 28, 2024, along with twelve other co-conspirators for charges related to drug trafficking. The others all previously pleaded guilty.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Natal Vazquez was a high-ranking member in a familial drug trafficking organization operating between Puerto Rico and the Middle District of Florida. Natal Vazquez had over 470 grams of cocaine in her freezer and a loaded firearm in her home on January 18, 2024, during the execution of a search warrant at her home.
Natal Vazquez was also seen delivering cocaine to a home used by the drug trafficking organization. Agents obtained a warrant for her phone following her arrest and located photographs of Natal Vazquez with suspected cocaine and the same firearm recovered during the search warrant.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Pasco Sheriff’s Office, and the Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Samantha Beckman and Jeff Chang.
Puerto Rico Man Indicted for Straw-Purchasing Dozens of Firearms on Behalf of OthersRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Esai Pastrana Cruz (30, Puerto Rico) with conspiring to make and making false statements to a firearms dealer. If convicted, Pastrana Cruz faces a maximum penalty of 5 years in federal prison on the conspiracy count and up to 10 years on each substantive count. The indictment also notifies Pastrana Cruz that the United States intends to forfeit all firearms and ammunition involved in or used in the violation.
According to the indictment, between June 29, 2019, and December 22, 2023, while living within the Middle District of Florida, Pastrana Cruz purchased dozens of firearms on behalf of his co-conspirators. While making the purchases, Pastrana Cruz falsely represented to federally licensed firearms dealers that he was the actual buyer or transferee of the firearms.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeff Chang.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Osceola County Man Sentenced for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger has sentenced Yo’Rel Le-Dari Pemberton (27, Osceola County) to 10 years and 5 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute and distribution of over 40 grams of fentanyl. Pemberton pled guilty on April 16, 2025.
According to court documents, on six occasions between July 6, 2023, and June 6, 2024, Pemberton sold pills containing fentanyl to an undercover officer. In total, Pemberton sold approximately 284 grams of fentanyl to the undercover officer.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Osceola County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Nate and Patrick Flanigan.
International Trafficker Pleads Guilty to Multi-Million Dollar Drug Conspiracy That Smuggled Hundreds of Kilograms of Cocaine and Murdered A RivalRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL –United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces that Marlon Alexis Aguilar-Reyes (44, Guatemala), a/k/a “Padrino,” “Flack,” “New Flack,” and “Flack NW” has pleaded guilty for conspiring to import cocaine into the United States. Aguilar was apprehended on March 4, 2024.
According to the plea agreement, Aguilar-Reyes was part of an organization in Guatemala that received cocaine from South American maritime vessels, transported the cocaine to locations near the Guatemala/Mexico border, and smuggled bulk cash throughout the country. Aguilar-Reyes controlled one of the land routes between northern Guatemala and southern Mexico and worked with corrupt law enforcement and politicians to further the conspiracy.
Throughout 2018, intercepted communications between Aguilar-Reyes and associates revealed multiple sales of cocaine and payments of millions of dollars. For example, in April 2018, Aguilar-Reyes negotiated a sale of 100 kilograms of cocaine for $1.2 million. On another occasion, Aguilar-Reyes and other coconspirators, including a coconspirator operating in Mexico, discussed the transfer of $5.877 million to Aguilar-Reyes and his organization. In May 2018, discussions between the conspirators, including a corrupt law enforcement officer, were involved in a murder near the Suchiate River crossing in Ayutla, Guatemala on the Guatemala/Mexico border. After confirming that the victim was killed, Aguilar-Reyes asked the officer to send a video recording to a local politician to show that the victim “was a freaking nuisance.”
This case was investigated by the Panama Express Strike Force, a standing Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) comprised of agents and analysts from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, and the U.S. Southern Command's Joint Interagency Task Force South. The U.S. Marshals Service provided critical support in the apprehension of the defendant. The principal mission of the OCDETF program is to identify, disrupt, and dismantle the most serious drug trafficking and money laundering organizations and those primarily responsible for the nation’s drug supply. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Dan Baeza.
Florida Man Sentenced to More Than 17 Years for Scheme to Steal More Than $10.8 Million from MedicareRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – District Judge Virginia M. Hernandez Covington has sentenced Lino Mallari Gutierrez, a/k/a “Joe Gutierrez,” (59, Palm City) to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison and ordered him to pay more than $5.6 million in restitution for his role in a scheme to defraud Medicare. Gutierrez and his co-conspirators submitted over $10.8 million in fraudulent claims for durable medical equipment (DME) that Medicare beneficiaries did not want or need and that were procured through the payment of kickbacks. Gutierrez was convicted at trial in April 2025, of eleven health care fraud-related offenses, including conspiracy, health care fraud, and paying kickbacks.
According to court documents and testimony, over a six-month period from October 2018 to April 2019, Gutierrez conspired with others to steal millions of dollars from Medicare by creating sham companies that shipped braces to Medicare beneficiaries —some of whom co-conspirators identified through telemarketing and others whose personal identifying information conspirators stole to submit fraudulent Medicare claims. Gutierrez and his conspirators paid kickbacks to other companies in exchange for signed doctors’ orders. These companies used overseas call centers to solicit patients and fraudulent telemedicine companies to procure fake prescriptions for braces for Medicare beneficiaries.
As part of the conspiracy, Gutierrez, a licensed broker, also filed false records with his employer and a private regulatory organization of brokers to conceal his involvement in the DME companies.
On April 9, 2019, multiple federal law enforcement agencies participated in a nationwide action referred to as “Operation Brace Yourself.” The operation targeted ongoing schemes, such as Gutierrez’s, in which companies were paying illegal bribes to secure signed physicians’ DME brace orders for use as support for fraudulent claims submitted to the federal programs. In the Middle District of Florida, the April 2019 operation included, among other efforts, the execution of search warrants at numerous DME storefronts and civil actions.
Before the operation, Gutierrez was in the process of establishing six more DME companies, which were thwarted by law enforcement action. To hide the profits from the government, Gutierrez and his conspirators laundered the Medicare proceeds.
“The sentencing underscores HHS-OIG’s commitment to protecting patients and taxpayers from fraudulent schemes that exploit our health care system and are motivated by pure greed,” stated Acting Special Agent in Charge Ryan Lynch with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “We will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations that individuals and entities are profiting from deceiving and abusing federal health care programs.”
“Mr. Gutierrez orchestrated a scheme to cost taxpayers over $10 million. When federally funded healthcare systems are cheated, we ALL pay the price. The FBI is dedicated to working with our partners to investigate and hold accountable those who exploit the health care system at the expense of patients,” said FBI Tampa Division Special Agent in Charge Matthew Fodor.
This case was investigated by the HHS-OIG and the FBI. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jennifer Peresie and Trial Attorney Margaret Mortimer of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Fraud Section.
Arizona Man Sentenced for Hand Sanitizer Scheme During the COVID PandemicRead the Press Release
Orlando, Florida – U.S. District Judge Paul G. Byron today sentenced Frank Richard Nickens (58, Arizona) to three years in federal prison for wire fraud. The court also ordered Nickens to forfeit $69,155 traceable to proceeds of the offense and to pay restitution to the victims. Nickens pleaded guilty on March 3, 2025.
According to court documents, in April 2020, at the beginning of the COVID pandemic, Nickens falsely claimed that he was a commercial producer of hand sanitizer. After promising to produce tens of thousands of units of hand sanitizer, three companies sent Nickens money to acquire his product. In truth, Nickens had no ability to produce hand sanitizer and was using the opportunity of high demand to require up-front deposits of 50% for the product that he never intended to provide. Nickens was a resident of Ormond Beach, Florida when he committed the crime.
This case was investigated by Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael P. Felicetta.
Sarasota Man Charged with Unlawful Possession of A Firearm and Illegal ReentryRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Aristeo Ceron-Morales (48, Sarasota) with unlawful possession of a firearm and illegal reentry. If convicted on all counts, Ceron-Morales faces a maximum penalty of 17 years in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Ceron-Morales that the United States intends to forfeit a Sig Sauer P226 firearm, a Savage 410 shotgun, Hornady 9 mm ammunition, and Remington .38 ammunition, which are alleged to be traceable to proceeds of the offense.
According to the indictment, Aristeo Ceron-Morales is a convicted felon and illegal alien. In 2002, he was convicted of “Sex Offense Against Child Fondling – Conduct by Person 18 Years of Age or Older.” Ceron-Morales possessed firearms and ammunition despite not being able to legally do so based on his status as a convicted felon and illegal alien. Additionally, Ceron-Morales was previously removed from the United States in 2003 and had returned to the United States illegally.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Homeland Security – Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and the Manatee County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Bradenton Police Department. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Abigail K. King.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Middle District of Florida Prosecutors Charge More Than 150 Individuals with Immigration-Related Offenses During the Third Quarter of 2025Read the Press Release
Tampa, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces today that federal prosecutors have charged 154 defendants with immigration and immigration-related offenses during the third quarter of fiscal year 2025, ending June 30, 2025. The majority of the defendants (146) have been charged with illegally reentering the United States.
During the same time period, 123 defendants pleaded guilty, and 96 defendants were sentenced for illegal reentry or other immigration-related offenses.
“Enforcement of our country’s immigration laws is one of the top priorities of the United States Attorney’s Office,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “We, along with our law enforcement partners, will continue to work to investigate and prosecute aliens who enter or remain in the United States in violation of our laws, and any individuals that help them do so.”
Q3 FY 2025 Highlights
U.S. v. Ana Juanita Andrade-Reyes
Ana Juanita Andrade-Reyes, a Honduran national illegally present in United States, was sentenced to three years and one month in federal prison for conspiracy to commit wire fraud and conspiracy to commit tax fraud. The court also ordered Andrade-Reyes to pay restitution to the IRS in the amount of $2,084,182 and entered a money judgment against Andrade-Reyes in the amount of $664,588, representing the proceeds of the wire fraud. According to court documents, Andrade-Reyes established a shell company that obtained a workers’ compensation insurance policy to cover a minimal payroll for a few purported employees. Andrade-Reyes then “rented” the workers’ compensation insurance to work crews who had obtained subcontracts with construction contractors on projects, sent the contractors a certificate of insurance as “proof” that the work crews had insurance, and falsely represented that the work crews worked for the shell company. As part of the scheme, Andrade-Reyes facilitated the employment of undocumented illegal workers and avoided payroll taxes, resulting in a loss to the government of $2,084,182.
U.S. v. Pedro Antunez-Galarza
According to court documents, Pedro Antunez-Galarza, a Mexican citizen, was removed from the United States in 2018 after he was convicted of an aggravated felony and served a prison sentence. He illegally reentered the United States, and when law enforcement found him in the Middle District of Florida in July 2024, he unlawfully possessed a firearm, ammunition, and false permanent resident and Social Security cards. For these offenses and for violating his supervised release, he was sentenced to a total of four years and eight months in federal prison.
U.S. v. Hubert Richard Crew
In May 2025, Hubert Richard Crew, a Jamaican national, was sentenced to five years in federal prison for illegal reentry into the United States by an alien. According to court documents, Crew, after serving a prison sentence for multiple felony offenses, was removed from the United States multiple times—most recently in 2016. He illegally reentered the United States again and was found in the Middle District of Florida in November 2024.
U.S. v. Angel Antonio Trochez-Cruz
Angel Antonio Trochez-Cruz was sentenced to six years in federal prison for illegal reentering the United States. According to court records, Trochez-Cruz, a native and citizen of Honduras, was removed from the United States in 2014 after serving a state prison sentence for robbery. Federal immigration authorities found him in the Middle District of Florida in December 2023 after he was arrested on a state charge for unlawful sexual activity—a crime for which he received a sentence of 24 months in prison. The court ordered the federal sentence to run consecutive to the term of imprisonment imposed in the state case.
U.S. v. Juan Leon David Vazquez
Juan Leon David Vazquez, a Colombian national, was sentenced to 3 years and 10 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. According to court documents, Vazquez shot and injured a man during an argument. Before fleeing the scene, he told the victim that he would kill him if he called the police. Despite the threat, the victim called 911 and reported the shooting. Law enforcement, after determining that Vazquez was the shooter and arresting him, searched the Vazquez’s residence and located the firearm.
Kissimmee Man Indicted for Transportation of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Angel Manuel Gallardo Candelaria (32, Kissimmee) with transportation of child sexual abuse material. If convicted, Gallardo faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 5 years, and up to 20 years, in federal prison. The indictment also notifies Gallardo Candelaria that the United States intends to forfeit a cellphone, which was used during the commission of the crime.
According to the indictment, on or about July 8, 2025, within the Middle District of Florida and elsewhere, Gallardo Candelaria knowingly transported CSAM, in and affecting interstate and foreign commerce.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Rachel Lyons.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Guatemalan National Indicted on Fraud and Illegal Reentry ChargesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida –United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe announces the return by a grand jury of an indictment charging Diego Andres Garcia (45, Guatemala) with possession of false documents, false representation of a Social Security number, and illegal reentry of a removed alien. Garcia faces up to 10 years in federal prison on the false documents charge, up to 5 years on the false representation of a SSN charge, and up to 2 years’ imprisonment on the illegal reentry charge. Garcia was arrested on a criminal complaint on July 17, 2025.
According to court documents, in July 2024, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted an immigration enforcement and compliance inspection involving a construction company in Jacksonville, Florida. During the inspection, HSI determined that Garcia submitted to the company a counterfeit Permanent Resident card and Social Security card and lied about his status in the United States. On July 17, 2025, HSI arrested Garcia on the fraud related charges. During processing, HSI determined that Garcia was in the United States after having previously been removed from the United States in 2006 and 2013. Garcia had not received consent of the Attorney General or the Secretary of Homeland Security to reapply for admission.
An indictment is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed one or more violations of federal criminal law, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kevin C. Frein.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
Armed Fentanyl Trafficker Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge William F. Jung has sentenced Theron Marquale Mathews (37, New Port Richey) to 15 years in federal prison for possession of 400 grams or more of fentanyl with the intent to distribute and possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. The court previously entered an order of forfeiture for three firearms and $41,176 in proceeds from drug trafficking crimes. Mathews pled guilty on March 11, 2025.
According to court documents, Mathews and a co-conspirator resided together at a home in New Port Richey, Florida. On March 14, 2024, agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) executed an arrest warrant at that home and found a fentanyl processing operation. Agents obtained a search warrant and recovered a loaded Glock 20 10mm pistol, a loaded Smith & Wesson M&P 40 caliber pistol, an ATI Bulldog semi-automatic shotgun, 980.8 grams of fentanyl, and a number of items for processing and packaging fentanyl.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Tampa Police Department, and the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Beckman.