Middle District of Florida
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Medicare Advantage Provider Complete Health to Pay $14,100,000 to Settle False Claims Act SuitRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, FL - Complete Health Partners Holdings, headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, has agreed to pay $14,100,000, to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by causing the submission of false diagnosis codes in order to increase payments that they received from the Medicare Advantage program.
“Health care fraud enforcement has long been a cornerstone of the mission of this office,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “This settlement sends a strong message to our district, its residents, and medical providers doing business here, that our focus on this vital practice area has not wavered.”
“As the Medicare Advantage program continues to grow, providers who participate in the program must be held to account when they attempt to improperly profit at the taxpayer’s expense,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement reflects the Department’s commitment to protecting taxpayer money and ensuring that Medicare payments are based on information that is true and accurate.”
“Companies that attempt to improperly boost their own profits by reporting bogus medical conditions of Medicare Advantage enrollees — as alleged in this case — will be held responsible for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Isaac M. Bledsoe of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Today’s settlement demonstrates our office’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of federal health care programs, including Medicare Advantage, which exist to provide necessary care to enrollees, not as a vehicle for improper financial gain.”
Under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare beneficiaries may opt out of traditional Medicare and enroll in private health plans offered by insurance companies known as Medicare Advantage Organizations, or MAOs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) pays the MAOs a fixed monthly amount for each Medicare beneficiary enrolled in their plans. CMS adjusts these monthly payments to account for various “risk” factors that affect expected health expenditures for the beneficiary. In general, CMS pays MAOs more for sicker beneficiaries expected to incur higher healthcare costs and less for healthier beneficiaries expected to incur lower costs. To calculate the payment amounts, CMS uses a health-based risk adjustment model — the Hierarchical Conditions Category (HCC) model — that takes into account diagnoses reported by healthcare providers. In general, the more severe the diagnosis or costly the associated treatment, the higher the risk score and the higher the corresponding payments to the MAO.
Complete Health Partners Holdings (Complete Health) is a management services organization that manages, owns or otherwise operates affiliated provider groups operating out of Florida, Alabama and Colorado. Under the contracts, the MAOs agreed to pay Complete Health a percentage of the payments they received from CMS. This “risk sharing” compensation arrangement gave Complete Health a financial incentive to submit additional diagnosis codes to increase its patients’ risk scores and the corresponding payments made by CMS.
The settlement resolves allegations, from 2020 to 2023, Complete Health submitted diagnosis codes within Hierarchical Condition Code (HCC) 55 (Drug and Alcohol Dependence) and HCC 59 (Major Depressive, Bipolar, and Paranoid Disorders) that were not clinically valid, not properly supported by the beneficiary’s medical records, and/or not considered in the care, management, or treatment of the beneficiary.
The United States contends that Complete Health disseminated incorrect coding guidance to its coders and physicians regarding diagnosis codes within HCC 55 and HCC 59. The United States further contends that Complete Health coders reviewed its beneficiaries’ medical records and identified additional diagnosis codes for chronic conditions, including diagnoses within HCC 55 and HCC 59. Complete Health then prompted doctors to add those diagnosis codes, even when the diagnosis codes were unsubstantiated or not clinically justified. As a result, the doctors added those diagnosis codes, which were not accurate. These diagnoses resulted in an increase in payment from CMS to the MA Plans in which the beneficiaries were enrolled, and the MA Plan then passed along a portion of the increased payment to Complete Health.
The civil settlement resolves claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Karen Bowers, former Associate Director of Risk Adjustment at VIVA Health. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Karen Bowers vs. Complete Health Partners, Inc., Pharos Capital Group, LLC, Viva Health Inc., and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Civil Action No. 3:22-cv-463 (M.D. Fla.). Karen Bowers will receive approximately $2,467,500 as her share of the federal recovery.
This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, with assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The matter was investigated by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Keefe and Collette Cunningham for the Middle District of Florida and Fraud Section Attorneys Olga Yevtukhova and J. Jennifer Koh .
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Medicare Advantage Provider Complete Health to Pay $14,100,000 to Settle False Claims Act SuitRead the Press Release
Complete Health Partners Holdings, headquartered in Jacksonville, Florida, has agreed to pay $14,100,000, to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by causing the submission of false diagnosis codes in order to increase payments that they received from the Medicare Advantage program.
“As the Medicare Advantage program continues to grow, providers who participate in the program must be held to account when they attempt to improperly profit at the taxpayer’s expense,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “This settlement reflects the Department’s commitment to protecting taxpayer money and ensuring that Medicare payments are based on information that is true and accurate.”
“Health care fraud enforcement has long been a cornerstone of the mission of this office,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “This settlement sends a strong message to our district, its residents, and medical providers doing business here, that our focus on this vital practice area has not wavered.”
“Companies that attempt to improperly boost their own profits by reporting bogus medical conditions of Medicare Advantage enrollees — as alleged in this case — will be held responsible for their actions,” said Special Agent in Charge Isaac M. Bledsoe of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “Today’s settlement demonstrates our office’s commitment to safeguarding the integrity of federal health care programs, including Medicare Advantage, which exist to provide necessary care to enrollees, not as a vehicle for improper financial gain.”
Under the Medicare Advantage (MA) Program, also known as Medicare Part C, Medicare beneficiaries may opt out of traditional Medicare and enroll in private health plans offered by insurance companies known as Medicare Advantage Organizations, or MAOs. The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) pays the MAOs a fixed monthly amount for each Medicare beneficiary enrolled in their plans. CMS adjusts these monthly payments to account for various “risk” factors that affect expected health expenditures for the beneficiary. In general, CMS pays MAOs more for sicker beneficiaries expected to incur higher healthcare costs and less for healthier beneficiaries expected to incur lower costs. To calculate the payment amounts, CMS uses a health-based risk adjustment model — the Hierarchical Conditions Category (HCC) model — that takes into account diagnoses reported by healthcare providers. In general, the more severe the diagnosis or costly the associated treatment, the higher the risk score and the higher the corresponding payments to the MAO.
Complete Health Partners Holdings (Complete Health) is a management services organization that manages, owns or otherwise operates affiliated provider groups operating out of Florida, Alabama and Colorado. Under the contracts, the MAOs agreed to pay Complete Health a percentage of the payments they received from CMS. This “risk sharing” compensation arrangement gave Complete Health a financial incentive to submit additional diagnosis codes to increase its patients’ risk scores and the corresponding payments made by CMS.
The settlement resolves allegations, from 2020 to 2023, Complete Health submitted diagnosis codes within Hierarchical Condition Code (HCC) 55 (Drug and Alcohol Dependence) and HCC 59 (Major Depressive, Bipolar, and Paranoid Disorders) that were not clinically valid, not properly supported by the beneficiary’s medical records, and/or not considered in the care, management, or treatment of the beneficiary.
The United States contends that Complete Health disseminated incorrect coding guidance to its coders and physicians regarding diagnosis codes within HCC 55 and HCC 59. The United States further contends that Complete Health coders reviewed its beneficiaries’ medical records and identified additional diagnosis codes for chronic conditions, including diagnoses within HCC 55 and HCC 59. Complete Health then prompted doctors to add those diagnosis codes, even when the diagnosis codes were unsubstantiated or not clinically justified. As a result, the doctors added those diagnosis codes, which were not accurate. These diagnoses resulted in an increase in payment from CMS to the MA Plans in which the beneficiaries were enrolled, and the MA Plan then passed along a portion of the increased payment to Complete Health.
The civil settlement resolves claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by Karen Bowers, former Associate Director of Risk Adjustment at VIVA Health. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The qui tam case is captioned United States ex rel. Karen Bowers vs. Complete Health Partners, Inc., Pharos Capital Group, LLC, Viva Health Inc., and Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Alabama, Civil Action No. 3:22-cv-463 (M.D. Fla.). Karen Bowers will receive approximately $2,467,500 as her share of the federal recovery.
This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, with assistance from the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrate the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement, can be reported to the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
The matter was investigated by Fraud Section Attorneys Olga Yevtukhova and J. Jennifer Koh and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Keefe and Collette Cunningham for the Middle District of Florida.
The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Marion County Man Sentenced to 20 Years for Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Phillip Washington, III a/k/a “Lil’ Phil” (33, Marion County) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber to 20 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Washington was found guilty on April 2, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial, on May 13, 2024, the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team (UDEST) executed a search warrant on Washington’s residence. A search revealed that Washington possessed with intent to distribute 3,034 grams of actual methamphetamine, 885 grams of fentanyl, and 302 grams of cocaine. A large portion of the controlled substances were found in a duffle bag on the dining table. Washington was also in possession of multiple scales and other items consistent with the packaging and distribution of controlled substances. His residence was equipped with a video-recorded security system. Footage from the system showed Washington bringing the duffle bag containing the controlled substances into his residence.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Marion County Unified Drug Enforcement Strike Team. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Sarah Janette Swartzberg.
Two Additional Ophthalmology Practices Agree to Pay $2.3M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Claims to Medicare and Medicaid for Cranial UltrasoundsRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL - New York ophthalmology practices Mark D. Fromer, P.C. doing business as Fromer Eye Centers and Floral Park Ophthalmology P.C. have agreed to pay a total of $2.3 million to resolve alleged violations of the False Claims Act arising from their billing for trans-cranial doppler ultrasounds (TCDs) through a kickback arrangement with a third-party testing company. The Estate of Mark Fromer, the former owner of Fromer Eye Centers, also joined in the settlement with the practice. Both practices have agreed to cooperate with the Justice Department’s ongoing investigations of other participants in the alleged scheme.
“Medical service providers who place profit above patients not only compromise the integrity of our health care system, but patients’ care,” stated U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Our office will continue working with our partners to combat fraud against our federal health care programs.”
“The integrity of healthcare decision-making depends on sound medical advice that is free from undue influence of illegal kickbacks and other improper arrangements,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will continue to hold accountable healthcare providers who engage in such schemes.”
“Kickback arrangements work to corrupt impartial medical decision-making and drive up health care costs for everyone,” said Special Agent in Charge Isaac M. Bledsoe of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud federal health care programs.”
The settlements announced today resolve allegations that the settling practices knowingly submitted, and caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare (and, with respect to Fromer Eye, Medicaid) for medically unnecessary TCDs. The United States alleges that the settling practices performed TCDs on thousands of patients and billed Medicare and Medicaid hundreds of dollars per test. Before the patients received the results of the test, the practices and the third-party testing company allegedly identified the patients as having received a serious diagnosis that could qualify the patient for reimbursement of a TCD. However, the United States alleged that nearly all patients who received TCDs never had that diagnosis, and it was not reflected in the patient’s medical history or in the TCD results. In addition, Floral Park Ophthalmology allegedly received remuneration paid by the third-party testing company to induce the practice to refer its Medicare and Medicaid patients to the testing provider for TCDs.
The United States alleged that as a result of this scheme, the settling practices submitted, or caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for TCDs that were medically unnecessary, that were premised on false diagnoses, and that resulted from violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Stark Law.
As a result of the settlements, Fromer Eye Centers and the Estate of Mark Fromer will pay $1,800,000 and Floral Park Ophthalmology will pay $500,000. Of the total settlement amounts, $384,000 will be paid to the State of New York for its share of Medicaid, which is a jointly funded federal and state program.
The civil settlements resolved claims in a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the Government’s recovery. The qui tam was filed by a whistleblower who will receive approximately $132,000 in connection with the settlement with Fromer Eye Centers.
The settlements were the result of a coordinated effort between the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, with assistance from HHS-OIG and the FBI. The United States previously resolved similar allegations against Brandon Eye Associates P.A., Pinellas Eye Care, P.A. (doing business as Gulfcoast Eye Care), Clay Eye Holdings LLC, Retina Macula Specialist of Miami LLC, Florida Eye Institute P.A., Miami Eye LLC, and Kendall Eye Institute Inc.
The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mamie Wise for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Nelson Wagner in the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section and handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Two Additional Ophthalmology Practices Agree to Pay $2.3M to Resolve Allegations of Fraudulent Claims to Medicare and Medicaid for Cranial UltrasoundsRead the Press Release
New York ophthalmology practices Mark D. Fromer, P.C. doing business as Fromer Eye Centers and Floral Park Ophthalmology P.C. have agreed to pay a total of $2.3 million to resolve alleged violations of the False Claims Act arising from their billing for trans-cranial doppler ultrasounds (TCDs) through a kickback arrangement with a third-party testing company. The Estate of Mark Fromer, the former owner of Fromer Eye Centers, also joined in the settlement with the practice. Both practices have agreed to cooperate with the Justice Department’s ongoing investigations of other participants in the alleged scheme.
“The integrity of healthcare decision-making depends on sound medical advice that is free from undue influence of illegal kickbacks and other improper arrangements,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “The Department will continue to hold accountable healthcare providers who engage in such schemes.”
“Medical service providers who place profit above patients not only compromise the integrity of our health care system, but patients’ care,” stated U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Our office will continue working with our partners to combat fraud against our federal health care programs.”
“Kickback arrangements work to corrupt impartial medical decision-making and drive up health care costs for everyone,” said Special Agent in Charge Isaac M. Bledsoe of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to investigate and hold accountable those who attempt to defraud federal health care programs.”
The settlements announced today resolve allegations that the settling practices knowingly submitted, and caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare (and, with respect to Fromer Eye, Medicaid) for medically unnecessary TCDs. The United States alleges that the settling practices performed TCDs on thousands of patients and billed Medicare and Medicaid hundreds of dollars per test. Before the patients received the results of the test, the practices and the third-party testing company allegedly identified the patients as having received a serious diagnosis that could qualify the patient for reimbursement of a TCD. However, the United States alleged that nearly all patients who received TCDs never had that diagnosis, and it was not reflected in the patient’s medical history or in the TCD results. In addition, Floral Park Ophthalmology allegedly received remuneration paid by the third-party testing company to induce the practice to refer its Medicare and Medicaid patients to the testing provider for TCDs.
The United States alleged that as a result of this scheme, the settling practices submitted, or caused the submission of, false claims to Medicare and Medicaid for TCDs that were medically unnecessary, that were premised on false diagnoses, and that resulted from violations of the Anti-Kickback Statute and the Stark Law.
As a result of the settlements, Fromer Eye Centers and the Estate of Mark Fromer will pay $1,800,000 and Floral Park Ophthalmology will pay $500,000. Of the total settlement amounts, $384,000 will be paid to the State of New York for its share of Medicaid, which is a jointly funded federal and state program.
The civil settlements resolved claims in a lawsuit filed under the qui tam or whistleblower provision of the False Claims Act, which permits private parties to file suit on behalf of the United States for false claims and share in a portion of the Government’s recovery. The qui tam was filed by a whistleblower who will receive approximately $132,000 in connection with the settlement with Fromer Eye Centers.
The settlements were the result of a coordinated effort between the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida, with assistance from HHS-OIG and the FBI. The United States previously resolved similar allegations against Brandon Eye Associates P.A., Pinellas Eye Care, P.A. (doing business as Gulfcoast Eye Care), Clay Eye Holdings LLC, Retina Macula Specialist of Miami LLC, Florida Eye Institute P.A., Miami Eye LLC, and Kendall Eye Institute Inc.
The government’s pursuit of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse, and mismanagement can be reported to HHS at 1-800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
This year the Administration launched the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division to enhance the Administration’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. When unscrupulous actors exploit these programs for their own financial gain, they defraud the government, harm the people these programs are designed to aid and protect, and undermine American businesses that play by the rules. The Civil Division’s FCA enforcement plays a critical role in combatting such fraudulent schemes, recovering billions of dollars for the American taxpayers, and holding wrongdoers accountable. FCA matters will continue to be on the forefront of the battle against fraud, and the Civil Division’s FCA work will support and advance the mission of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud and the National Fraud Enforcement Division. Trial Attorney Nelson Wagner in the Civil Division’s Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Mamie Wise for the Middle District of Florida handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only and there has been no determination of liability.
Gainesville Man Sentenced to over 14 Years for Robbery and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Michael Deon Woulard (50, Gainesville) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Marcia Morales Howard to 14 years and 10 months in federal prison for robbery and brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a violent crime. Woulard pleaded guilty on March 16, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents and proceedings, on October 10, 2023, Woulard robbed a Value Pawn shop in Jacksonville, stealing goods valued at approximately $45,945. On November 25, 2023, Woulard robbed a Kay Jewelers store in Jacksonville, during which he brandished a semi-automatic pistol at employees and stole jewelry valued at approximately $352,623.66. On February 20, 2024, Woulard robbed another Kay Jewelers store in Ocala, during which he again brandished a semi-automatic pistol at employees and stole jewelry valued at approximately $364,752.56. Woulard was arrested on February 21, 2024, while in possession of numerous stolen items from the third robbery. During a voluntary interview with investigators from the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office and the Ocala Police Department, he admitted to committing the jewelry store robberies.
Woulard was ordered to pay $442,582.59 in restitution to the victims.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the Ocala Police Department, and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian.
Federal Jury Finds Man Guilty of Four Robberies with a FirearmRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – A federal jury has Devon Floyd (34) guilty of four counts of Hobbs Act robbery, four counts of brandishing a firearm in furtherance of a crime of violence, and conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery. Floyd faces up to 20 years in prison for each robbery offense and a minimum sentence of 28 years, up to life, for the firearms offenses. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, in July 2023, Floyd robbed four separate convenience stores throughout the Middle District of Florida. He used a firearm during each robbery. The first break in the case occurred when the Tampa Police Department identified a print belonging to Floyd on a box of pens Floyd had touched during one of the robberies. Agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives collected physical and video evidence from the crime scenes. Using video footage, fingerprints, and DNA evidence, agents were to place Floyd at the scenes of other robberies.
The investigation also led to the arrest and conviction of Leanna Bryant (age 29) and Kavar Young (age 34). Bryant pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, two counts of Hobbs Act robbery, and two counts of brandishing a firearm. She is currently awaiting sentencing. Young pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, Hobbs Act robbery, and brandishing a firearm. He was sentenced to three years and ten months in federal prison.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Tampa Police Department, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Temple Terrace Police Department, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, and the North Port Police Department. The Federal Bureau of Investigation assisted with cellphone location analysis. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
Apollo Beach Man Sentenced to 27 Years in Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Ludwin Borgen (49, Apollo Beach) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Thomas P. Barber to 27 years in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl, the use of which resulted in the death of a person. A jury found Borgen guilty on April 1, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to evidence presented at trial, Borgen was a drug dealer in the Tampa Bay area who had supplied the victim with fentanyl on multiple instances in the past. In the late evening of March 28, 2022, the victim began reaching out to Borgen to arrange a purchase the next day. On March 29, 2022, the victim met Borgen at a pharmacy, where she purchased fentanyl from him. The victim returned to a residence where she had been staying with a friend. That evening, the victim injected herself with the fentanyl while soaking in the bathtub. Intoxicated by the fentanyl, she slid under the water and drowned. After noticing that the victim had been in the bathroom for an extended period of time, her friend checked on her and found her body in the bathtub with her head submerged under the water and a syringe floating next to her.
Toxicology revealed that the victim had approximately ten times the therapeutic concentration of fentanyl in her system—a concentration consistent with overdose deaths. Detectives from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office who specialize in overdose deaths investigated and identified Borgen as the person who had sold the fentanyl to the victim. A detective used her phone to arrange another meeting with Borgen, who arrived intending to sell more fentanyl to the victim. After the investigation team arrested Borgen, they searched his vehicle and found fentanyl, baggies, syringes, and a scale.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Hillsborough County Medical Examiner’s Office, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Muriel Moore and Michael Sinacore.
South Florida Man Pleads Guilty to Filing a False Tax Return and Agrees to Pay the IRS More Than $34 Million in RestitutionRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Daniel Liburdi (37, Miami) has pleaded guilty to one count of filing a false tax return. Liburdi faces a maximum penalty of three years in federal prison and has agreed to pay $34,846,381 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service. Liburdi has also agreed to the civil forfeiture of three real properties in Miami Beach and the U.S. Virgin Islands, valued, collectively, at approximately $37,500,000; two Ferraris and one Land Rover Range Rover, valued, collectively, at approximately $1,127,000; and the contents of several financial accounts that total $414,508.49. A sentencing date is set for August 18, 2026. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. The action is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud.
According to court documents, Liburdi misreported his income on his 2021, 2022, and 2023 tax returns. For example, on his 2023 tax return, Liburdi falsely stated that business income was sourced by a U.S. Virgin Islands-based entity, rather than U.S.-based entities that had actually sourced the income. The false statement facilitated Liburdi’s claim of EDC Beneficiary exclusions of income not otherwise eligible for this exclusion. As a result, Liburdi misreported the amount of tax due to the IRS in the amount of nearly $10 million on his 2023 tax return. Liburdi also misreported income on his 2021 and 2022 tax returns, resulting in an additional tax loss to the government of over $24 million.
“Liburdi’s actions represent a flagrant disregard for our nation’s tax laws as he engaged in a deliberate scheme to evade taxes, defraud the U.S. Treasury, and exploit public coffers for his personal gain,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “Our office is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to combat fraud and ensure that those who violate federal laws are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This defendant earned tens of millions of dollars in income and then devised an elaborate scheme to not pay taxes,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge of IRS Criminal Investigation, Florida Field Office. “This case demonstrates that high net-worth individuals, like all Americans, are held accountable for filing false documents with the IRS, and IRS Special Agents will join forces with our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who choose similar paths.”
“Fraud of this magnitude is not a victimless crime—it undermines public trust, harms honest taxpayers, and threatens the integrity of our financial systems,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Assistant Special Agent in Charge Michael S. Calvo. “Combating fraud and tax evasion requires unwavering commitment and collaboration across agencies, and no single organization can tackle these complex crimes alone. By forging strong partnerships, we ensure thorough investigations and hold offenders accountable, protecting the integrity of our financial systems and the public trust.”
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation and Homeland Security Investigations. Additional assistance was provided by the Pasco Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Ross Roberts and Whitney Mackay. The forfeiture is being handled by Assistant United States Attorney Suzanne Nebesky.
Cuban National Sentenced for His Role in an International Alien Smuggling, Asylum Fraud, and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL — A Cuban National was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for his role in an international alien smuggling, asylum fraud, and money laundering conspiracy.
“Enforcing our nation’s immigration laws is essential to maintaining safe and secure borders,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “The conspirators in this case used sophisticated methods to violate those laws and engaged in an elaborate human smuggling scheme, for profit. The diligence demonstrated by our law enforcement partners in this case ensured that this defendant was brought to justice.”
“Ventura-Castro was part of a complex conspiracy responsible for smuggling aliens into the United States on a massive scale,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendant and others recruited aliens using social media, charged thousands of dollars to bring them into the country illegally, and helped them get immigration benefits to which they were not entitled.”
“The exploitation of vulnerable people through these types of intricate schemes are egregious crimes that threaten our national security and exploit the integrity of our immigration system,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa. “They knowingly orchestrated a sophisticated scheme to recruit and smuggle thousands of Cuban nationals into the United States, and unlawfully obtained immigration benefits through fraudulent applications, deliberate misrepresentations, and illicit financial transactions. Such calculated criminal conduct undermines the integrity of our immigration system and will be met with the full force of the law.”
“Today’s sentencing is evidence of our all-out war on immigration fraud,” said Director Joseph Edlow of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. “U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is proud to have worked with our law enforcement partners to dismantle this criminal enterprise, which churned out thousands of fake asylum claims and flooded the country with illegal aliens. As Ventura-Castro and his criminal associates are being brought to justice, we will continue our mission protecting Americans from those who seek to exploit our laws and endanger our communities.”
According to court documents, Erik Ventura-Castro, 24, of Hialeah, Florida, between January of 2021 and June of 2025, conspired with others to operate an alien smuggling organization (ASO) which encouraged or induced thousands of Cuban aliens to enter the United States through the southern border and used fraudulent Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and visa waivers. The defendants advertised their smuggling services and bogus visa services across multiple social media platforms to solicit Cuban nationals and other aliens to attempt to illegally enter the United States and fraudulently obtain lawful status in the United States. The alien smuggling organization (ASO) advertised services included assisting Cubans with making false claims of European citizenship to enter the United States on a European tourist visa waiver or ESTA and filing hundreds of fraudulent ESTA applications with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), using fake addresses and fabricated documents. To obtain admission under the ESTAs, the defendants made false representations that the applicants had not been in Cuba since 2011. The defendants knew that Cubans are not eligible for the ESTA program, and that the applicants were actually in Cuba at the time the ESTA applications were submitted.
Passports and Boarding Passes obtained as part of the scheme
Social media account advertising ASO services
Social media account using photo from human smuggling event to advertise ASO services
Ventura-Castro furthered the conspiracy by advertising trips for aliens to travel from Cuba to the United States through third-party countries and assisting the aliens in obtaining fraudulent ESTAs. The defendant submitted over 40 electronic payments to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for fraudulent ESTA applications. As part of the conspiracy, aliens were charged between $1,500 and $40,000 for smuggling services. Co-conspirators sometimes even chartered private planes to move groups of aliens. Ventura-Castro and co-defendants conspired with each other to regularly move funds to companies operating outside of the United States and to other places outside the United States, such as by purchasing international flights for aliens to travel into the United States. Ventura-Castro transmitted over $97,000 from the United States to the Cayman Islands, Colombia and Mexico to purchase flights for aliens to unlawfully enter the United States.
Ventura-Castro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit alien smuggling for financial gain and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments on May 7.
Twelve individuals were charged in a superseding indictment for their roles in the conspiracy. Defendants Liannys Yaiselys Vega-Perez, 31, Miguel Alejandro Martinez Vasconcelos, 31, Layra Libertad Treto Santos, 30, Emanuel Martinez Gonzalez, 29, and Walbis Pozo-Dutel, 31, have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Defendants Lazaro Alain Cabrera-Rodriguez, Luis Emmanuel Escalona-Marrero, and Gisleivy Peralta Consuegra are awaiting trial scheduled to begin on Sept. 21.
The investigation and superseding indictment were supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including HSI and CBP U.S. Border Patrol and Office of Field Operations, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 465 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 424 U.S. convictions; and more than 368 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
HSI Tampa, U.S. Border Patrol Miami Sector, and USCIS’s’ Fraud Detection and National Security led U.S. investigative efforts, with substantial assistance from HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. and CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force. Authorities in the Cayman Islands provided valuable assistance.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Courtney Derry for the Middle District of Florida and Trial Attorney Amanda Brown of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section are prosecuting the case.
Temple Terrace Man Pleads Guilty to Interstate Threats to KillRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Andrew Nikhil Aiyar (28, Temple Terrace) has pleaded guilty to interstate threats to kill. He faces a maximum of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, between September and November 2025, Aiyar became frustrated with an American media company and began sending harassing and threatening messages to individuals associated with the company. One of these individuals was the wife of a prominent political media personality. Aiyar posted public social media threats to kill her and members of her family including, “I will tear your family to pieces before I shut up. Next time I’m in [CITY NAME] I’m finding you,” “I will beat your kids to death in front of you and your husband will do nothing about it,” and “When I get done hacking you to death with a meat cleaver I will turn myself in as a hero.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Temple Terrace Police Department. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Joseph Wheeler, III.
Cuban National Sentenced for His Role in an International Alien Smuggling, Asylum Fraud, and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
A Cuban National was sentenced today to 30 months in prison for his role in an international alien smuggling, asylum fraud, and money laundering conspiracy.
“Ventura-Castro was part of a complex conspiracy responsible for smuggling aliens into the United States on a massive scale,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The defendant and others recruited aliens using social media, charged thousands of dollars to bring them into the country illegally, and helped them get immigration benefits to which they were not entitled.”
“Enforcing our nation’s immigration laws is essential to maintaining safe and secure borders,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “The conspirators in this case used sophisticated methods to violate those laws and engaged in an elaborate human smuggling scheme, for profit. The diligence demonstrated by our law enforcement partners in this case ensured that this defendant was brought to justice.”
“The exploitation of vulnerable people through these types of intricate schemes are egregious crimes that threaten our national security and exploit the integrity of our immigration system,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Tampa. “They knowingly orchestrated a sophisticated scheme to recruit and smuggle thousands of Cuban nationals into the United States, and unlawfully obtained immigration benefits through fraudulent applications, deliberate misrepresentations, and illicit financial transactions. Such calculated criminal conduct undermines the integrity of our immigration system and will be met with the full force of the law.”
“Today’s sentencing is evidence of our all-out war on immigration fraud,” said Director Joseph Edlow of U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. “U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services is proud to have worked with our law enforcement partners to dismantle this criminal enterprise, which churned out thousands of fake asylum claims and flooded the country with illegal aliens. As Ventura-Castro and his criminal associates are being brought to justice, we will continue our mission protecting Americans from those who seek to exploit our laws and endanger our communities.”
According to court documents, Erik Ventura-Castro, 24, of Hialeah, Florida, between January of 2021 and June of 2025, conspired with others to operate an alien smuggling organization (ASO) which encouraged or induced thousands of Cuban aliens to enter the United States through the southern border and used fraudulent Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and visa waivers. The defendants advertised their smuggling services and bogus visa services across multiple social media platforms to solicit Cuban nationals and other aliens to attempt to illegally enter the United States and fraudulently obtain lawful status in the United States. The alien smuggling organization (ASO) advertised services included assisting Cubans with making false claims of European citizenship to enter the United States on a European tourist visa waiver or ESTA and filing hundreds of fraudulent ESTA applications with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), using fake addresses and fabricated documents. To obtain admission under the ESTAs, the defendants made false representations that the applicants had not been in Cuba since 2011. The defendants knew that Cubans are not eligible for the ESTA program, and that the applicants were actually in Cuba at the time the ESTA applications were submitted.
Passports and Boarding Passes obtained as part of the scheme Social media account advertising ASO services Social media account using photo from human smuggling event to advertise ASO servicesVentura-Castro furthered the conspiracy by advertising trips for aliens to travel from Cuba to the United States through third-party countries and assisting the aliens in obtaining fraudulent ESTAs. The defendant submitted over 40 electronic payments to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) for fraudulent ESTA applications. As part of the conspiracy, aliens were charged between $1,500 and $40,000 for smuggling services. Co-conspirators sometimes even chartered private planes to move groups of aliens. Ventura-Castro and co-defendants conspired with each other to regularly move funds to companies operating outside of the United States and to other places outside the United States, such as by purchasing international flights for aliens to travel into the United States. Ventura-Castro transmitted over $97,000 from the United States to the Cayman Islands, Colombia and Mexico to purchase flights for aliens to unlawfully enter the United States.
Ventura-Castro pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit alien smuggling for financial gain and conspiracy to launder monetary instruments on May 7.
Twelve individuals were charged in a superseding indictment for their roles in the conspiracy. Defendants Liannys Yaiselys Vega-Perez, 31, Miguel Alejandro Martinez Vasconcelos, 31, Layra Libertad Treto Santos, 30, Emanuel Martinez Gonzalez, 29, and Walbis Pozo-Dutel, 31, have all pleaded guilty and are awaiting sentencing. Defendants Lazaro Alain Cabrera-Rodriguez, Luis Emmanuel Escalona-Marrero, and Gisleivy Peralta Consuegra are awaiting trial scheduled to begin on Sept. 21.
The investigation and superseding indictment were supported and prosecuted by Joint Task Force Alpha (JTFA), the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorneys from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including HSI and CBP U.S. Border Patrol and Office of Field Operations, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies. To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 465 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 424 U.S. convictions; and more than 368 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
HSI Tampa, U.S. Border Patrol Miami Sector, and USCIS’s’ Fraud Detection and National Security led U.S. investigative efforts, with substantial assistance from HSI’s Human Smuggling Unit in Washington, D.C. and CBP’s National Targeting Center International Interdiction Task Force. Authorities in the Cayman Islands provided valuable assistance.
Trial Attorney Amanda Brown of the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Courtney Derry for the Middle District of Florida are prosecuting the case.
Lake County Man Pleads Guilty to Theft of Government Funds and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Jose Valles Villamizar (29, Tavares) has pleaded guilty to theft of government funds and aggravated identity theft. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years’ imprisonment for the theft of government funds offense and a mandatory consecutive sentence of 2 years’ imprisonment for the aggravated identity theft offense. As part of his plea, Villamizar has also agreed to forfeit $73,655.27, which are traceable as the proceeds of his criminal conduct. A sentencing date has not yet been set. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, Villamizar fraudulently used $73,655.27 in Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (“SNAP”) benefits. He personally used the benefits and aided and abetted others to fraudulently use the benefits. SNAP, formerly known as the Food Stamp Program, is a United States Department of Agriculture (“USDA”) program established by the United States government to help low-income individuals and families by providing monthly benefits to purchase food items. SNAP benefits are issued to recipients through Electronic Benefit Transfer (“EBT”) cards.
Between September 2023 and February 2025, 650 SNAP applications were submitted in the names of various individuals. All the applications listed residential and mailing addresses that were associated with Villamizar. Once the applications were approved, SNAP benefits were issued under the names of the applicants. The USDA subsequently obtained surveillance footage of Villamizar using the SNAP benefit EBT cards issued in the other names.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Agriculture – Office of Inspector General, the Florida Department of Children and Families, and the Florida Division of Public Assistance Fraud. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to Five Years in Prison for Bank Fraud and Failing to AppearRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – McKenzie Phillip Storm Scott (30, Jacksonville) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Wendy W. Berger to three years and six months in federal prison for bank fraud conspiracy and one year and six months for failure to appear, to be served consecutively, for a total of 5 years’ imprisonment. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $21,097.49, the proceeds of the bank fraud conspiracy. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, Scott and others conspired to defraud financial institutions by stealing checks from the United States mail, altering the payees and payment amounts for the purposes of manufacturing counterfeit checks, depositing them into bank accounts belonging to accomplices, then withdrawing as much of the fraudulent checks as possible in cash. The intended loss attributable to Scott’s conduct was approximately $526,000. He obtained $21,097.49 in cash.
Scott was due to be sentenced for the bank fraud case on February 7, 2025, but failed to appear for the hearing. He was subsequently indicted for his failure to appear. Law enforcement ultimately located Scott traveling in Las Vegas, Nevada, and arrested him on December 2, 2025.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service, the United States Marshals Service, the United States Secret Service and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian.
Federal Correctional Officer Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of an Inmate and Receipt of a Bribe by a Public OfficialRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Cornelius Alexander Thompson (38, Ocala) has pleaded guilty to one count of sexual abuse of a ward in federal custody and one count of receipt of a bribe by a public official. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison on each count. A sentencing date has not yet been set. The indictment also notifies Thompson that the United States will seek an order of forfeiture of $24,550, which represents the proceeds of the bribery offense. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court records, Thompson was a public official employed by the Federal Bureau of Prisons as a correctional officer at the Coleman Federal Correctional Complex (FCC Coleman) in Sumter County. Between January 2020 and August 9, 2023, Thompson engaged in a sexual act at the prison with a federal inmate under his custodial, supervisory, and disciplinary authority. Furthermore, between January 2020 and April 29, 2024, Thompson received money to unlawfully smuggle contraband into FCC Coleman for federal inmates. The prohibited items Thompson smuggled into the prison included K2 (a synthetic marijuana), fentanyl, PCP, methamphetamine, ketamine, suboxone, marijuana, cigarettes, and cellphones.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Department of Justice – Office of the Inspector General, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Hannah Nowalk Watson.
Clermont Mortgage Consultant Pleads Guilty in Bank Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Kenneth Blair (54, Clermont) has pleaded guilty to one count of bank fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. Blair entered his guilty plea while on pretrial release and awaiting sentencing for a similar mortgage fraud scheme. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, from as early as May 2024, and continuing through July 2025, in the Middle District of Florida and elsewhere, Blair and others devised a scheme to defraud financial institutions by making materially false and fraudulent representations. Blair’s role in the bank fraud scheme included preparing and submitting fictitious and fraudulent paystubs and employment promotion letters for his clients in the names of companies to show fabricated income from employers. This caused the mortgage lenders to approve and fund mortgage loans for otherwise unqualified borrowers in exchange for undisclosed payments to Blair from his clients. The fraudulent mortgage loans were subsequently purchased and guaranteed by government-sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, as well as the Federal Housing Administration.
This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Ponte Vedra Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Traffic Firearms and Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Braden Huston Hobbs (28, Ponte Vedra) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Harvey E. Schlesinger to nine years in federal prison for conspiracy to traffic firearms, making a materially false statement to a licensed firearms dealer, and conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, including 500 grams or more of cocaine. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents and proceedings, agents began investigating Hobbs after learning that several firearms Hobbs had purchased were recovered during separate law enforcement investigations. These firearms were recovered from the homes of drug dealers and a convicted felon. Additionally, undercover agents purchased 11 firearms from two co-conspirators, Alton Wayne Cope III and Jayden Lance Cope, who were also prosecuted. Hobbs was the original purchaser of multiple firearms purchased from the Copes. Cellphone records also confirmed that Jayden Cope regularly purchased firearms from Hobbs.
Through further investigation, agents found that between March 2022 and June 2024, Hobbs had purchased at least 121 firearms from three different federally licensed firearms dealers in Jacksonville, with 67 of those firearms being purchased between January and June 2024. Hobbs then sold those firearms to others. On multiple occasions, Hobbs advertised firearms for sale to potential customers before acquiring the firearms from the federally licensed firearms dealer.
Customers typically paid Hobbs in cash for the firearms. Hobbs also traded drugs for the firearms. Hobbs was aware that some of his customers intended to resell the firearms, were drug users, or were drug distributors. Hobbs also asked his co-conspirators to assist him in finding buyers for the firearms and the co-conspirators advertised Hobbs’s firearms for sale. Hobbs told others that he “deal[s]” in firearms, bragging he was “Mr. Cocaine addict firearms trafficker.” Records indicated that Hobbs had made more than $200,000 in illegal proceeds in less than 36 months. Although he engaged in the business of dealing firearms, Hobbs is not a federally licensed firearms dealer, as required by federal law. When Hobbs purchased the firearms from licensed firearms dealers, he indicated on the required ATF Form 4473 that he was the actual buyer or transferee of the firearms. In addition, Hobbs indicated that he was not a user of or addicted to controlled substances. Both statements were false. Hobbs intended to sell the firearms and therefore was not the actual buyer or transferee of them. Hobbs was also a habitual user of controlled substances and was distributing controlled substances, including over 500 grams of cocaine and Adderall. Hobbs routinely advertised controlled substances for sale and coordinated narcotics transactions and often sold the controlled substances to the same individuals to whom he was selling firearms. On June 26, 2024, Hobbs was arrested by the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office for driving under the influence and trafficking in cocaine. During a search of Hobbs’s car, officers recovered more than 200 grams of cocaine and 17 grams of Adderall, as well as various items used to package and distribute controlled substances.
In related court proceedings, co-conspirator Alton Wayne Cope III was sentenced to four years and three months in federal prison for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon and conspiring to deal in firearms without a license. Jayden Lance Cope was sentenced to six years for conspiring to deal in firearms without a license and unlawful receipt of a firearm after being indicted.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Internal Revenue Service - Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Secret Service, the North Florida HIDTA Tri-County Narcotics Task Force with the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Elisibeth Adams.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
Three Plead Guilty to Illegal Reentry by a Previously Deported AlienRead the Press Release
Ocala, Florida – Today, Alexander Nolasco-Hernandez (41, Honduras), Ruben Marcos-Santiago (30, Mexico), and Celedonio Plancarte-Perez (38, Mexico) pleaded guilty to illegal reentry by a previously deported alien. Each faces a maximum penalty of two years in federal prison. Sentencing dates have not yet been set. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, Nolasco-Hernandez was previously removed from the United States to Honduras two times. Marcos-Santigo was previously removed from the United States to Mexico three times. Plancarte-Perez was previously removed from the United States to Mexico two times. All three were encountered voluntarily present in the Middle District of Florida in June 2026.
These cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO). They are being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Jerry M. Harre.
These cases are 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.
Tampa Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Johan Smith Pavon Mejia (43, Tampa) has pleaded guilty to attempted enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. He faces a minimum penalty of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. Mejia’s sentencing hearing is set for October 15, 2026. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the plea agreement, in April 2025, Mejia communicated online with an undercover detective from the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office and arranged to meet a fictitious minor to engage in sexual activity. Mejia traveled to an agreed upon location to meet the “minor” and arrived with items requested by the undercover detective, including candy, iced tea, and money to pay for the arranged sexual acts.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa M. Spergel.
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.
Orlando Woman Pleads Guilty for Role in Mortgage Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Kimberly Williams (44, Orlando) has pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud. She faces a maximum penalty of 30 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, Williams, co-conspirator Kenneth Blair, and others conspired to create and execute a mortgage fraud scheme directed at financial institutions. To ensure that otherwise unqualified borrowers obtained mortgage loans from financial institutions, Williams created fictitious and fraudulent paystubs that falsely indicated that the borrowers worked at particular companies for certain periods of time and earned income that they did not in exchange for payments from Blair. The fraudulent mortgage loans were subsequently purchased and guaranteed by government-sponsored entities Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, as well as the Federal Housing Administration.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency – Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.
Jacksonville Man Sentenced to More Than Four Years for Cyberstalking and Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Mario Jerome Bentley (44, Jacksonville) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Steven Merryday to four years and three months in federal prison for cyberstalking and possessing ammunition as convicted felon. The court also ordered Bentley to forfeit the ammunition and have no contact, directly or indirectly, with the victims. Bentley pleaded guilty in April 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, beginning in April 2023, Bentley harassed, intimidated, and caused emotional distress to two former Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) by calling one AUSA’s direct line hundreds of times and by leaving threatening voicemails. In September 2023, Bentley’s home was searched by law enforcement. Agents recovered four boxes of ammunition, containing 25 cartridges per box. Bentley is a previously convicted felon, and therefore, not permitted to possess firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa M. Spergel.
Former St. Augustine Business Owner Sentenced to 29 Years for Attempting to Pay Traffickers in the Philippines to Film and Send Videos of Children Being Sexually AbusedRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Jack Dymond Leach (44, St. Augustine) has been sentenced by United States District Judge Wendy W. Berger to 29 years in federal prison for attempting to pay individuals in the Philippines to molest young children and send him videos of their sexual abuse. Leach was also ordered to serve a lifetime term of supervised release, pay $103,000 in restitution to child victims, and register as a sex offender. On May 29, 2025, Leach, the former owner of Dymeng Technology Solutions, was arrested and has been in custody since that time. He pleaded guilty on October 21, 2025. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence discussed in open court, in March 2025, agents from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) were investigating child sexual exploitation activities involving a particular online communications application (“App”). An HSI analyst in Jacksonville discovered certain information associated with a specific App account that was communicating with two other App accounts that had been used by individuals in the Philippines in 2023 to traffic children for sexual exploitation. This particular App account was determined to have accessed the internet in St. Augustine. Further investigation revealed that this account belonged to Leach.
Between November 2023 and March 2024, Leach’s App account and the other two App accounts used by child traffickers in the Philippines exchanged 1,287 messages and numerous media files. In an App text message that Leach sent to a trafficker on November 21, 2023, Leach stated, “i like 3y, 5y, 8y.” The trafficker responded, among other things, “I c[a]n get that age.” On November 22, 2023, Leach texted, “will [the child] make dirty pics or vids …,” and “sure, i’ll pay for them.”
On December 2, 2023, Leach sent a message offering to pay the trafficker for producing a video depicting a child engaging in specific sexually explicit conduct and sending it to Leach. Leach and the trafficker discussed possible methods of payment via text message. On December 5, 2023, Leach sent the trafficker $160 to produce and send the video of the child being sexually abused. Leach also attempted to have traffickers molest two other children for the purpose of producing and sending him videos of their abuse.
On May 8, 2025, federal search warrants were executed at Leach’s residence and his business. HSI agents and other law enforcement personnel seized numerous electronic devices belonging to and used by Leach. A forensic examination of these devices revealed at least 933 photos depicting young children being sexually abused.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
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, rescue, and seek justice for victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Former Jail Official Pleads Guilty to Accepting BribesRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Justin Harvey (50, Inverness) has pleaded guilty to acceptance of a bribe by a public official. He faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the plea agreement, Harvey worked as a correctional officer at Citrus County Detention Facility (CCDF), a jail facility where federal inmates are held while they await trial, sentencing, or designation to a Federal Bureau of Prisons facility. While Harvey worked at CCDF, he agreed to bring a cellphone into the facility to an inmate. In exchange, the inmate would pay Harvey $4,000 in cash. Harvey then met up with a colleague of the inmate – who was, in fact, an undercover law enforcement agent – and collected $4,000 and a cellphone to bring into the facility. Harvey then wrapped the cellphone in saran wrap to smuggle it into the facility. Harvey brought the cellphone into CCDF and gave it to the inmate. The inmate later returned the cellphone to law enforcement. Further analysis identified Harvey’s fingerprints on the tape that sealed the phone.
The introduction of contraband, like cellphones, into secure detention facilities presents a security risk to those both inside and outside the facility.
Harvey agreed to forfeit $4,000 to the United States, the money he received as a bribe.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Citrus County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Michael J. Buchanan. Assistant United States Attorney James A. Muench handled the forfeiture.
United States Postal Employee Pleads Guilty to Stealing MailRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Alexandria Bullock (46, Wimauma) has pleaded guilty to theft by a postal employee. Bullock faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. A sentencing date has not yet been set. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the plea agreement, Bullock entered duty with the U.S. Postal Service in April 2019. While on her mail route, she knowingly and unlawfully embezzled items of mail entrusted to her, including checks payable to individuals, charities, and legal entities. Bullock then changed the payee line of the checks she stole to her own name and subsequently deposited the altered checks into her bank account.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Service – Office of Inspector General. It is being prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.
Methamphetamine Trafficker and Tax Fraudster Sentenced to Federal Prison in Homeland Security Task Force CaseRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Leeman Brown has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Virgina M. Hernandez Covington to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, and aiding and assisting false and fraudulent tax returns. Brown pleaded guilty on October 27, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe mad the announcement.
According to court documents, Brown conspired with others to smuggle methamphetamine, hidden in packages in the mail, from California to the Tampa area. At the same time, Brown submitted more than 80 false tax returns to the IRS that included fraudulent amounts of gambling losses, winnings, and federal income tax withholdings. The submissions requested large refunds from the IRS to which taxpayers are not entitled. Brown earned over $260,000 in proceeds from the scheme.
“The expertise and diligence by our HSTF law enforcement partners in this case is a clear example of our commitment to stem the flow of illegal drugs and protect our nation’s financial system against fraud,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe.
“Tax fraud isn’t a game—and anyone who tries to cheat the system will quickly learn that IRS Criminal Investigation plays to win,” said Ron Loecker, Special Agent in Charge, IRS-Criminal Investigation, Florida Field Office. “IRS Special Agents are unwavering in their mission: protect America’s taxpayers, defend the integrity of our tax system, and hold offenders accountable. If you think you can beat the IRS, think again.”
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigation and the Internal Revenue Service’s Criminal Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Stoia.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
Homeland Security Task Force Yields 27 Year Prison Sentence for Hardee County Methamphetamine TraffickerRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Herbert Battle, Jr. (54, Hardee County) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Virgina M. Hernandez Covington to 27 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 500 grams of methamphetamine. Battle pleaded guilty on August 19, 2025.United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at sentencing, Battle oversaw a drug trafficking conspiracy in which he and others smuggled methamphetamine, hidden in packages in the mail, from California to the Tampa area. At its height, the conspirators received up to 20 pounds of high-purity methamphetamine per week. Battle, whose criminal history dates to 1989, has a 2018 federal drug conviction for conspiracy to distribute heroin.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Lauren Stoia.
Former Marine Charged with Threatening to Kill the PresidentRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – William L. Upham (35, Jacksonville) has been arrested and charged by criminal complaint with threatening the President of the United States. If convicted, Upham faces a maximum penalty of five years in federal prison. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement. Upham appeared in federal court in Jacksonville earlier today and has been ordered detained.
According to the complaint, the United States Secret Service (“USSS”) received reports concerning potential threats against the President made by Upham, who is a former Marine and state prosecutor. USSS agents then observed two videos that Upham had posted on his social media accounts. In the first video, Upham was observed wearing his military uniform. Upham stated, in part, that “this is a call to arms” and called for the overthrow of the Trump administration. Upham then provided instructions on how to “overthrow” the President, including that he recommended using a semi-automatic rifle, such as an AR-15, and that “the enemy” should be killed with “two shots to the chest” and “one shot to the head,” which would result in a very high chance of death. Agents observed a second video in which Upham, again wearing his military uniform, made similar statements, including, in part, that President Trump is the enemy and “must be killed.”
Subsequent to these videos, the USSS received a communication that Upham had sent to a third-party which stated that he made the videos to “declare war” against President Trump and that he would “kill President Trump at the time that God chooses.” The USSS also became aware that Upham had access to firearms and had made concerning statements to law enforcement as recently as July 2026.
A criminal complaint is merely a formal charge that a defendant has committed a violation of the federal criminal laws, and every defendant is presumed innocent unless, and until, proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Kelli Swaney.
Criminal ComplaintNineteen Individuals Plead Guilty to Statewide Bank Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida– Nineteen individuals have pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit bank fraud. These individuals include Qornelious Campbell (33, Winter Haven), Kenneth Cole II (27, Winter Haven), Kenisha Coffer (27, Minneola), D’Andranika Crews (22, Lakeland), Ebony Fields (28, Winter Haven), Victoria Ferrer (24, Lakeland), Aaliyah Gotay-Woods (25, Bartow), Bre’asia Harris (28, Winter Haven), Jaun Hillman (53, Winter Haven), Keith Honors, Jr. (41, Lakeland), Kendrick Iles (22, Plant City), Arkuria Lewis (24, Lakeland), Deven Little (30, Lakeland), Josie Lopez (31, Haines City), Clarissa Morris (26, Lakeland), Tamiria Perry (29, Winter Haven), Tamaries Richardson (32, Bartow), Kalei Spicer (24, Live Oak), and Tyler Jacob (26, Winter Haven). Jacob also pleaded guilty to aggravated identity theft, witness tampering, and destruction of evidence. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, in 2023, the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office initiated an investigation into a violent street gang known as the “Trap Boys,” who were operating throughout the Middle District of Florida. This investigation and subsequent arrests were predicated upon several retaliatory shootings between the Trap Boys and other violent street gangs. During these arrests, several members of the gang were found to be in possession of large quantities of checks, debit cards, financial statements, and identification cards in the names of third parties. Further investigation of these materials revealed that from at least July 2021, and continuing through November 2023, a group of individuals had engaged in a conspiracy to defraud banks, credit unions, individual persons, and various businesses throughout Florida, including Winter Haven, Auburndale, Riverview, Kissimmee, Lakeland, Tampa, and Miami.
As part of this conspiracy, the co-conspirators stole checks from individuals and businesses. Using check writing software, the co-conspirators then altered those checks and created fictitious checks, changing the banks, businesses, and the check amounts. Using automated systems and online databases, the co-conspirators then learned of the banking information of various businesses, including their transaction history, account balances, check numbers and other information. Members of the conspiracy then recruited accomplices who provided members of this conspiracy with their own bank account numbers, Social Security numbers, debit cards, and their own individual bank account log credentials and passwords. The co-conspirators then deposited the fraudulently created checks at dozens of banks and credit unions throughout the Middle District of Florida.
Over the course of this conspiracy, approximately 26 banks and more than 200 victims were defrauded, including insurance companies, law firms, construction companies, tile companies, auto shop businesses, public school districts, colleges, and state agencies.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Polk County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
Four-Time Deported Mexican National Sentenced to 37 Months in Federal Prison for Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Miguel Reyes Estrada (43, Mexico) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Jordan E. Pratt to 37 months in federal prison for illegal reentry by a previously removed alien. Estrada pleaded guilty on March 16, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, in 2021, after being deported three times, Estrada reentered the United States and was convicted of state drug trafficking and money laundering offenses. In 2022, Estrada was convicted in the Southern District of Florida for illegal reentry and was subsequently removed to Mexico in May 2023.
On January 19, 2026, the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office notified U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement that Estrada was back in the United States and in custody on an unrelated charge. Estrada was subsequently indicted for illegal reentry by a previously removed alien.
This case was investigated by the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Richard L. Lasseter.
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.
Brooksville Man Found Guilty of Receiving, Distributing, and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – A federal jury has found Julian Russell Clawson (43, Tampa) guilty of receiving, distributing, and possessing child sexual abuse material (CSAM). Clawson faces a minimum penalty of 15 years, up to 40 years, in federal prison for each count of receiving and distributing CSAM, and a minimum of 10 years, up to 20 years, in prison for possessing CSAM. He faces enhanced penalties in this case and a violation of supervised release based on a previous conviction for possessing CSAM. His combined violation and sentencing hearing will be held at a future date. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Clawson traded CSAM on a social media application (app). He engaged in graphic sexual discussions around the abuse of minors in public groups on the app, as well as with two different undercover FBI agents from the Sarasota and Jacksonville offices. As part of Clawson’s direct messages with the FBI agents, he distributed CSAM to both undercover agents on multiple dates in April 2023. Through records obtained from the social media platform, the investigation revealed that Clawson also received CSAM through this application. In June 2023, a search warrant was executed for Clawson’s cellphone revealing that he possessed more than 250 images and videos of CSAM on his phone.
This case was investigated by the FBI in Sarasota and Jacksonville, the Tampa Police Department, and the Hernando County Sherriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa M. Spergel.
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.
Tampa Men Who Robbed and Zip-Tied Victims in Their Home IndictedRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida –A federal grand jury has returned a superseding indictment against Jay El Wilburn (47, Tampa) and Alvaughn Parker (27, Tampa) for conspiracy to commit Hobbs Act robbery, robbery, use of a firearm during a crime of violence, and possession of a firearm as a convicted felon. Wilburn previously served a federal sentence for using a firearm during a crime of violence. If convicted, he faces a minimum sentence of 25 years, up to life, in federal prison. Parker faces a minimum sentence of 7 years, up to life, federal prison, if convicted. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Wilburn and Parker conspired to commit an armed robbery in Tampa. On January 20, 2026, they made their way into an apartment at a Tampa apartment complex where they brandished firearms at the occupants—including a 13-year-old child—and restrained the victims by zip-tying their hands behind their backs. Wilburn and Parker stole cash, controlled substances, firearms, and other personal property, including jewelry, before fleeing the scene.
On February 2, 2026, agents with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) executed a federal search warrant at Wilburn’s residence and recovered the loaded firearm, a Taurus PT58S .380 caliber pistol containing 10 rounds of ammunition, that had been used in the robbery. At the time, Wilburn had prior felony convictions, including carjacking and use of a firearm during the commission of a violent crime. Therefore, he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
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 is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
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.
St. Petersburg Sexual Offender Sentenced to 11 Years for Attempted Coercion and Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Nathaniel McAlpine (48, St. Petersburg) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Brian Miller to 11 years in federal prison for attempted coercion and enticement of a minor to engage in sexual activity. McAlpine was found guilty by a jury on September 24, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, McAlpine, while on supervised release for possession of child pornography, engaged in conversations with the purported mother of a child wherein he coerced, encouraged and persuaded the purported mother to engage in sexual activity with her child. Through investigation, agents determined the purported mother to actually be an online scammer.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.
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 Previously Twice Removed from the United States and Previously Convicted of Illegal Reentry Indicted Again for Same OffenseRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Hilario Sifuentes-Cordero (42, Mexico) has been charged by federal indictment with illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien. If convicted, he faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and subsequent removal from the United States. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, on June 30, 2026, Sifuentes-Cordero was found to be unlawfully present in the United States after having previously been removed from the United States on May 24, 2007, and November 1, 2008. Sifuentes-Cordero had not applied for or received permission from government authorities to re-enter the United States after his last removal. Sifuentes-Cordero was previously convicted of illegal re-entry on October 15, 2008.
An indictment is only an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Florida Highway Patrol. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.
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.
Guatemalan National Previously Removed from the United States Three Times and Previously Convicted of Illegal Reentry is Indicted Again for Same OffenseRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Gaspar Mateo-Morales (41, Guatemala) has been charged by federal indictment with illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien. If convicted, Mateo-Morales faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in federal prison and subsequent removal from the United States. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, on June 28, 2026, Mateo-Morales was found to be unlawfully present in the United States after having previously been removed from the United States on February 25, 2011, March 25, 2011, and September 14, 2016. Mateo-Morales had not applied for or received permission from government authorities to re-enter the United States after his last removal. He was previously convicted of illegal re-entry on August 16, 2016.
An indictment is only an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
This case was investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement and the Florida Highway Patrol. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Arnold B. Corsmeier.
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.
Twice-Deported Mexican National Charged with Illegal Reentry into the United StatesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Ignatio Mateos-Herrera (33, Mexico) has been charged by federal indictment with illegal reentry into the United States by a previously deported alien. If convicted, Mateos-Herrera faces up to two years in federal prison and subsequent deportation and removal from the United States. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, on March 18, 2016, and again on April 27, 2017, Mateos-Herrera was removed from the United States by immigration authorities. On June 20, 2026, Mateos-Herrera was found to be voluntarily back in the United States and was arrested in the Middle District of Florida. Records checks confirmed that he had not applied to U.S. immigration authorities for permission to lawfully reenter the United States after his prior removals.
An indictment is only an allegation, and every defendant is presumed innocent until proven guilty.
This case was investigated by the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
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.
Middleburg Man Convicted by Jury of Federal Firearms and Drug OffensesRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – A federal jury has found James Malcolm Davis (47, Middleburg) guilty of possession of methamphetamine and possession of firearms by a convicted felon. Davis faces a maximum of 16 years in federal prison. His sentencing hearing has not yet been scheduled. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to evidence presented at trial, on October 31, 2024, as part of an ongoing criminal investigation, Clay County Sheriff’s Office narcotics detectives conducted a traffic stop on Davis and located a baggie containing methamphetamine in Davis’s pants pocket, and approximately 40 grams of methamphetamine in his backpack. Following his arrest, the detectives applied for and executed a search warrant for Davis’s camper, which was located in Middleburg, Florida. Inside the camper were four firearms, over 1,500 rounds of ammunition, pipes used to smoke methamphetamine, and a bullet proof vest. The firearms included a .22 caliber rifle, two semi-automatic assault style rifles, and a revolver. Davis provided a detective with the combination to a safe, inside of which were two of those firearms.
Davis has prior felony convictions, including for aggravated assault, felony battery, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Therefore, he is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition under federal law.
This case was investigated by the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney John Cannizzaro.
Orlando Pharmacy and Pharmacist Agree to Pay $50,000 to Settle Controlled Substances Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
Orlando, FL – Plaza Pharmacy, LLC and Paul Ezeobinwa have agreed to pay the United States $50,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the Controlled Substances Act by improperly distributing schedule V drugs and committing multiple recordkeeping violations. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
The settlement relates to a DEA investigation of Plaza Pharmacy. According to the settlement agreement, between December 22, 2021, and March 21, 2024, Plaza Pharmacy and Mr. Ezeobinwa failed to properly identify a total of 104 fraudulent prescriptions with 193 refills, resulting in the dispensing a controlled substance without a valid prescription. As explained in the settlement agreement, on March 21, 2024, the DEA conducted an on-site investigation of Plaza Pharmacy and discovered dozens of record-keeping violations of the Controlled Substances Act. Plaza Pharmacy surrendered its DEA license for cause on May 2, 2024, and ceased operating in September 2025.
“Pharmacies and pharmacists serve everyone in our communities and carry an obligation to track and properly report the dispensing of controlled substances,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “This settlement highlights our commitment to enforcing the Controlled Substances Act to protect our citizens.”
“Our Diversion investigators will continue to pursue and investigate those who abuse the system and poison our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “DEA will not stop until anyone who violates the CSA has been brought to justice.”
This settlement resulted from a coordinated effort by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida and the Drug Enforcement Administration. The civil settlement was reached by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeremy R. Bloor.
The settlement resolves the United States’ claims. The claims resolved by the settlement are allegations only, and there has been no determination of liability.
New Jersey Man Sentenced for Robbery of a Postal Letter CarrierRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida– Tajmir Wyles (32, New Jersey) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Thomas Barber to three years in federal prison for robbery of a postal mail carrier and receipt, possession or concealment of stolen property of the United States. This sentence was ordered to run consecutively with a Dallas, Texas state sentence of eight years prison for obstruction, possession of a controlled substance, and fraudulent possession of identification information of 50 or more individuals. Wyles pleaded guilty in the federal case on December 4, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, on May 15, 2023, Wyles robbed a postal letter carrier of his master keys while he was delivering mail at a community mailbox inside the Whittier Center shopping center on E. Busch Boulevard, in Tampa, Florida. Following a physical altercation over the keys, Wyles successfully fled the scene with the keys.
In July 2023, Wyles was arrested in Dallas, Texas, where he was found with a binder of approximately 120 checks, with multiple different check owners. Many of the checks were reported stolen from the Tampa Bay area, where the postal keys worked, after the robbery. In addition, Wyles was in possession of the postal master keys that had been taken during the robbery on May 15, 2023.
This case was investigated by the U.S. Postal Inspection Service in Tampa, Florida, and Fort Worth, Texas, the Tampa Police Department, and the Dallas Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Ilyssa M. Spergel.
Unlicensed Contractor Who Exploited Elderly Hurricane Ian Victim Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Fort Myers, Florida – Luis Emilio Hernandez (45, Naples) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Sheri Polster Chappell to four years in federal prison for wire fraud and illegal monetary transactions. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $1,261,019, the proceeds of the fraud. Luis Emilio Hernandez entered a guilty plea on March 30, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, following Hurricane Ian, between November 2022 and approximately February 2024, the victim, an 85-year-old woman, and her husband (now deceased) were defrauded by Hernandez, who posed as a contractor to fix the victim’s residence in Naples which had been damaged by the storm.
The victim wrote personal checks to Hernandez for supplies and equipment supposedly needed by the defendant to fix the victim’s residence. The checks were never deposited, instead cashed against the victim’s account in amounts varying from $200 to $120,000, and in cashier’s checks payable to automobile dealerships. The memo line for each check was specified for items related to construction (windows, materials, paint, permits, etc.). A total of 35 checks were issued to the defendant in the amount of $1,261,019.
According to the Collier County Property Appraiser, no permits were pulled for the victim’s residence since February 28, 2018, when a permit for a roof was issued. The next permit was on May 30, 2023, when the residence was demolished. According to the Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR), the defendant had never applied for or received licensing of any sort in the State of Florida.
The defendant’s scheme consisted of him cashing checks from the victim, purchasing vehicles with those funds, then flipping those vehicles in trade-ins at multiple automobile dealerships, and purchasing other vehicles with additional funds from the victim’s checks and trade-ins.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Lee County Sheriff’s Office. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Patrick Darcey and Jesus M. Casas.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Tampa Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Transporting and Possessing Computer Generated Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Bruce Raymond Robinson, Jr. (44, Tampa) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Mary S. Scriven to 15 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime of supervised release, for the transportation and possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) depicting an actual minor. Robinson was found guilty following a bench trial on December 5, 2025. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, Robinson knowingly transported and possessed CSAM. Robinson created the CSAM by editing thousands of pornographic images and videos to depict the face of a known minor female. Robinson shared this material with others online.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tampa Police Department. It was being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.
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.
Tampa Bay Pain Management Clinic to Pay $115,000 for Discriminating Against Disabled Veteran with Service AnimalRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida has reached an agreement with APC, INC., a pain management clinic with locations in Tampa and Brandon, to settle allegations that it violated Title III of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by discriminating against a disabled veteran with a service animal. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office opened an investigation into APC after receiving a complaint from a disabled United States military veteran who uses a service animal to provide him with non-violent protection, rescue work, and assistance when he experiences seizures and episodes of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). As a result of the investigation, the United States determined that APC violated the ADA when it discriminated against the complainant and his wife by refusing to allow the complainant to attend a post-hospitalization medical appointment at APC’s Brandon office with his service animal. APC claimed to have a “no pets policy” and that their office is a “sterile environment.” APC’s denial caused the complainant to experience a PTSD episode, followed by repeated seizures during the car ride home and over the next several days, and to abruptly discontinue the medicine an APC physician had prescribed him while he was hospitalized.
“Service animals are not pets—they provide critical assistance for individuals with disabilities,” said United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe. “Many of our nation’s military veterans use service animals to assist them with service-connected disabilities. Our office does not tolerate discrimination against individuals with disabilities who use service animals and will ensure they receive equal access to healthcare.”
Under the terms of the settlement agreement, APC must pay $100,000 to compensate the complainant and his wife for the discrimination they faced. APC must adopt, maintain, and enforce a service animal policy and a non-discrimination policy regarding the prohibition of discrimination on the basis of disability. Both policies must be conspicuously posted in APC’s reception areas and on its website. APC must also provide training to all personnel on the non-discrimination requirements under the ADA and post a “Service Animals Welcome” sign in all public entryways of its facilities. For the next two years, APC must report any disability discrimination complaints it receives to the United States. Finally, APC must pay a $15,000 civil penalty to the United States to vindicate the public interest.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alexandra N. Karahalios handled this case.
Title III of the ADA prohibits public accommodations, including professional offices of health care providers, from discriminating against individuals on the basis of disability in the full and equal enjoyment of their goods, services, facilities, privileges, advantages, or accommodations (“goods or services”). In general, Title III prohibits public accommodations from subjecting an individual on the basis of disability to a denial of the opportunity to participate in or benefit from its goods or services. Specifically, public accommodations must make reasonable modifications in policies, practices, or procedures that are necessary to afford their goods or services to individuals with disabilities who have service animals. Public accommodations are also prohibited from denying equal goods or services to individuals because of their relationship or association with someone with a disability.
Individuals who believe they may have experienced discrimination may contact the Civil Rights Unit of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Middle District of Florida by calling our Civil Rights Hotline at (813) 274-6095 or emailing us at [email protected]. To fill out our civil rights complaint form, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-mdfl/civil-rights-complaint-form.
The Attorney General is authorized to investigate alleged violations of Title III of the ADA and to bring a civil action in federal court if the United States is unable to secure voluntary compliance in any case that involves a pattern or practice of discrimination or that raises issues of general public importance. Ensuring that professional offices of health care providers do not discriminate against patients with disabilities is an issue of general public importance.
For more information on the ADA, visit www.ada.gov or call the Department of Justice’s toll-free ADA Information Line at (800) 514-0301 (Voice) or (833) 610-1264 (TTY). Accessibility specialists are available to answer questions from individuals, businesses, and state or local governments. All calls are confidential.
Settlement AgreementPalmetto Man Sentenced to Prison for Tax EvasionRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Terry Brunning has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Charlene E. Honeywell to 24 months in federal prison, followed by 36 months of supervised release for tax evasion. The Court also ordered Brunning to pay $2,467,523.44 in restitution to the United States Department of the Treasury associated with tax evasion for tax years 1999, 2000, and 2001. Brunning pled guilty on April 2, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, Brunning’s acts of evading taxes included the purchase of real property, vehicles, and the procurement of various cashier’s checks in the name of a business which served to conceal the property’s beneficial ownership and source, in order to avoid enforcement of a tax judgment against his personal assets. The defendant conducted these transactions through this business entity in a willful attempt to evade or defeat the payment of taxes due and owing for tax years 1999 and including 2001. As a result of the defendant’s actions, a tax loss, inclusive of penalties and interest, is due and owing to the Internal Revenue Service in the amount of $2,467,523.44.
This case was investigated by the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Whitney Mackay.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Lakeland Man Who Fired Bullets That Killed 70-Year-Old-Grandmother and Injured Three Others Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Taqiy Lewis (29, Lakeland) has been sentenced by United States District Judge Kathryn Mizelle to 30 years in federal prison. On March 2, 2026, Lewis pleaded guilty to possessing a firearm and ammunition as a convicted felon in connection with a shooting. United States Attorney Gregory Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, on December 24, 2020, 70-year-old M.C. was outside her Lakeland home with her family, including young children. At approximately 5:30 p.m., Lewis and others engaged in a shootout outside of M.C.’s residence. M.C. was struck twice and killed. Three others, including a 13-year-old, were also shot and wounded outside the residence.
Two years later, on February 9, 2023, during an unrelated investigation, agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and officers from the Lakeland Police Department recovered a Kahr CM9 9mm pistol while executing a search warrant in Lakeland. Forensic testing using the National Integrated Ballistic Information Network (“NIBIN”) confirmed that this firearm was the one used to kill M.C. Further investigation revealed that six casings collected from the crime scene, two spent projectiles recovered from the residence, and a bullet recovered from M.C.’s body were all fired by Lewis and the Kahr CM9 pistol he had possessed.
At the time of the shooting, Lewis was a convicted felon and prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. Subsequent evidence revealed that after the shooting, Lewis obtained a fake alibi and had the jacket and sandals he used during the commission of the shooting burned in a barrel. Lewis remains under investigation by state law enforcement for causing M.C.’s death.
This case was investigated by both the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Lakeland Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Diego F. Novaes.
Jacksonville Man Indicted by Federal Grand Jury for Producing and Attempting to Produce Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Carlos Alvaro Canjura Ventura (44, Jacksonville) has been indicted by a federal grand jury for producing and attempting to produce child sexual abuse materials. Ventura faces a mandatory minimum penalty of 15 years, up to 30 years, in federal prison, and a potential life term of supervised release. He was arrested on December 18, 2025, in connection with a related state case. Ventura has been detained in this federal case, and his trial is set for September 8, 2026. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the indictment, from August 2024 through December 18, 2025, Canjura Ventura did employ or use and attempt to employ or use a minor to engage in sexually explicit conduct for the purpose of producing visual depictions of that 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 was investigated by the Northeast Florida INTERCEPT Task Force, which includes Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Jacksonville, the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Office, the St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office, the Clay County Sheriff’s Office, and the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney D. Rodney Brown.
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, rescue, and seek justice for child victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab "resources."
Georgia Man and Florida Man Indicted for Trafficking Heroin on the DarknetRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Eric Turner (30, Georgia) and Jose Smith (29, Valrico) have been charged in a federal indictment with conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute heroin. If convicted, Turner and Smith each face a minimum of 10 years, up to life, in federal prison. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, Eric Turner and Jose Smith have been operating a drug-trafficking organization since at least 2024, starting with distributing illicit pills to eventually trafficking kilogram-quantities of heroin through the Darknet. Digital evidence, postal records, surveillance, drug seizures, and an undercover operation, established that Turner (based in Lizella, Georgia) sourced kilogram-bricks of heroin and shipped them to Smith at his residence in Valrico, Florida, where Smith would break them down into smaller quantities to ship to their Darknet customers. As of April 2026, their Darknet vendor account showed more than 2,500 fulfilled heroin orders, as well as thousands of reviews from customers praising the quality of the heroin.
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 Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, and the Georgia State Patrol. It will be prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Belkis H. Callaos.
Former Jacksonville Bank Employee Pleads Guilty to Wire Fraud and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Jacksonville, Florida – Lexus Inez Lewis (30, Jacksonville) has pleaded guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Lewis faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison for the wire fraud offense, and a consecutive mandatory minimum penalty of two years for the aggravated identity theft. No sentencing date has been set. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to the plea agreement, in 2022, Lewis obtained employment at Citibank in its fraud department by using another person’s identity. From approximately November 2022 through April 2023, Lewis used her position to obtain customers’ credit card numbers, which she would then fraudulently use to purchase items such as jewelry or furniture, pay for her own living expenses or travel, or pay other individuals’ rent in exchange for a cash payment. When ultimately confronted by law enforcement, Lewis admitted to her conduct.
Lewis agreed to forfeit $463,619, the proceeds of the charged criminal conduct.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David B. Mesrobian and Kevin C. Frein. The forfeiture is being handled by Suzanne Nebesky.
Texas Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
Tampa, Florida – Jazzmen La Vone Gaskins (39, Texas) has been sentenced by U.S. District Judge Charlene Edwards Honeywell to 15 years in federal prison for sex trafficking. As part of his sentence, the court also entered an order of forfeiture in the amount of $40,000, the proceeds of the sex trafficking. Gaskins pleaded guilty on April 2, 2026. United States Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents, between July 2023 and March 2024, Gaskins trafficked “Victim 1” using force, threats of force, fraud, and coercion to cause the victim to engage in a commercial sex act.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. It is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Courtney Derry.
Four Tampa Men Sentenced for Two Armed Robberies of Convenience StoresRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – U.S. District Judge Steven D. Merryday has sentenced four Tampa men for the armed robberies of two Tampa convenience stores. E’barous Harris (age 27) was sentenced to 14 years and 7 months in prison, Ronald Brown (age 25) to 15 years in prison, Jermaine Dawes (age 33) to 14 years and 10 months in prison, and Tra-Vontae Watson (age 32) to 20 years and 5 months in prison. Each previously pleaded guilty. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents and proceedings, in July 2024, the above-named individuals conspired together to rob the convenience stores. Harris, Watson, and Brown went inside the stores, while Dawes acted as the lookout and getaway driver. Watson and Brown carried firearms, which they utilized to steal cash from both locations. Law enforcement ultimately located the robbers at a motel in Tampa. Surveillance footage from the hotel showed the four men getting in and out of the vehicle used in the robberies, and the larger firearm, a rifle, could be seen being loaded into the vehicle as well. Search warrants for multiple hotel rooms associated with the individuals were executed and a rifle consistent with the one seen on video and used in the robberies was located.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, and the Tampa Police Department. It was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Samantha Newman.
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.
Former Florida Resident Sentenced to 20 Years in Federal Prison for Appraisal FraudRead the Press Release
Tampa, FL – Armando Martinez (51, Plano, TX) has been sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Amos Mazzant, III, of the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Texas to 20 years in federal prison for bank fraud. Martinez previously pleaded guilty. U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe made the announcement.
According to court documents filed with the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, Martinez, who had his Florida Appraiser’s license revoked, orchestrated and executed a bank fraud scheme directed at multiple financial institutions by taking over the identity and license number of a legitimate licensed appraiser. Martinez then purportedly conducted onsite appraisals for dozens of properties in Florida. In reality, Martinez paid others to go to the properties and take pictures for appraisals he completed. He then sent the appraisals to the victim lenders, using his computer after having fled the United States to the Dominican Republic. Based on the false and fraudulent appraisals, the financial institutions were fraudulently induced to approve and fund mortgage loans and pay Martinez appraisal fees. As a result of Martinez’s appraisal fraud, more than $65 million in mortgages are impaired or defective. These mortgages were either guaranteed by the Federal Housing Administration or purchased and guaranteed by Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
This case was investigated by the Federal Housing Finance Agency Office of Inspector General and the United States Department of Housing and Development – Office of Inspector General. It was prosecuted by Special Assistant United States Attorney Chris Poor.
Florida Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Prison for Travelling Internationally to Sexually Exploit MinorsRead the Press Release
A Florida man was sentenced today to 30 years in prison and lifetime supervised release for the production of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) of victims as young as eight years old.
According to court documents, Vincent Anthony Principe, 55, of Arcadia, travelled to the Philippines over the course of several years and sexually abused four minors, including one as young as eight. He sexually abused children and documented the abuse on video. He then published the videos on a website devoted to child exploitation. He also possessed over 100 images of child sexual abuse material, including those depicting the exploitation of pre-pubescent children.
“The defendant’s vile acts not only caused serious harm through his sexual abuse of multiple minors, but he also inflicted added layers to that harm by memorializing the abuse and distributing it to other offenders,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “No child predator will find safe haven in the United States. The Department is committed to holding U.S. citizens accountable for harming children whether committed in the United States or internationally.”
“The vile actions of this child predator who exploited children while traveling internationally is reprehensible,” said U.S. Attorney Gregory W. Kehoe for the Middle District of Florida. “Working closely with our law enforcement partners, we remain committed to investigating and prosecuting those who prey on children.”
“The Secret Service is committed to protecting the most vulnerable members of our society from exploitation and abuse,” said the Acting Special Agent in Charge Andrew Forrest of the U.S. Secret Service’s (USSS) Criminal Investigative Division. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of the defendant’s crimes and underscores our dedication to working with U.S. and international partners to ensure offenders are brought to justice, no matter where their crimes occur.”
Principe pleaded guilty to the charges on April 30.
The USSS conducted the investigation with support from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, the Queensland Police Service, and Europol.
Trial Attorney McKenzie Hightower of the Justice Department’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Yolande Viacava for the Middle District of Florida prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.