Northern District of Florida

TALLAHASSEE – United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced today a summary of significant accomplishments made by the Northern District of Florida in 2025. Highlighting the impact of his office’s work, U.S. Attorney Heekin emphasized his continued commitment to advance the priorities of the Department of Justice and protect our communities.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This past year was momentous for the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida as we capably answered the calls to action by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi while fulfilling the vital mission of the Department of Justice.  Through our work, we have demonstrated our unwavering commitment to the rule of law and the safety and wellbeing of our communities. Of course, we could not have succeeded without the close and lasting partnerships we have with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, which we will further strengthen in 2026 as we strive toward delivering safe streets for our residents.”

The federal case work performed by the U.S. Attorney’s Office is divided across three divisions: Criminal, Civil, and Appellate. More information about the Northern District of Florida’s varied responsibilities can found at http://www.justice.gov/usao/usao-ndfl/what-we-do.

The Criminal Division answered the call to action by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi through Operation Take Back America, which marshaled the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, human and drug trafficking. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida made significant strides to deliver justice for our communities poisoned by illegal drugs and plagued by criminal violence, including the following in calendar year 2025:

• 391 criminal defendants charged;
• 293 guilty pleas entered;
• 35 criminal jury trials conducted;
• 984 direct contacts with crime victims, and 9,818 written notifications issued to victims of crime.

The Civil Division represents the interests of the United States in civil litigation, defending federal agencies and workers sued in their official capacity and pursuing affirmative lawsuits to recover monies improperly or fraudulently taken from the federal government. The Division’s Financial Litigation Program also works to enforce criminal and civil monetary judgments and recover restitution owed to ensure criminal defendants do not profit from their crimes.  Notable work performed by the Civil Division in 2025 included:

• Zealous representation of federal partners in the 53 newly filed defensive matters;
• Recovery of $1.7 million lost to false claims submitted to the U.S. Government through three settlements of Affirmative Civil Enforcement matters;
• $6.4 million in criminal money judgments collected;
• Nearly $4 million applied toward victim restitution through asset forfeiture restoration;
• More than $1 million distributed to state and local law enforcement partners through the Equitable Sharing Program.

The Appellate Division represents the interests of the United States in appeals filed in criminal cases to the 11th Circuit Court of Appeals. In 2025, the Appellate Division’s notable accomplishments included:

• 105 appeals filed, which included 93 criminal appeals and 12 civil appeals;
• 113 responses to post-conviction motions filed;
• 80 affirmances of District Court decisions in favor of the Government.

“The substantial accomplishments of 2025 are merely the foundation upon which we will build even greater achievements in 2026,” added U.S. Attorney Heekin. “President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi have set forth ambitious expectations for the United States Attorneys’ Offices nationwide to deliver safe streets for our residents and rein in fraud, waste, and abuse in federal programs. The Northern District of Florida is prepared to meet the urgency of the moment. In 2026, we will remain tireless in our pursuit of justice on behalf of our citizens and committed to making the Northern District of Florida the absolute best – and safest – place in America to live, work, and raise a family.”

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Robert Shane Willis, 47, of Perry, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charge.

Willis appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for February 24, 2026, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor in Tallahassee, Florida.

Willis faces 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to life, if convicted as charged.

The case is being jointly investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Perry Police Department, and the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Christopher J. Watson, 43, of Pensacola, Florida, was indicted in federal court for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and over 500 grams of cocaine; conspiracy to utilize a telephone communication facility to carry out a drug trafficking crime; conspiracy to commit money laundering; possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; and attempting to prevent the seizure of drug trafficking evidence by lawful authorities. The indictment was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.     

Watson appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho, in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for March 2, 2026, at 8:00 am, before District Court Judge M. Casey Rogers.

Watson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years up to life imprisonment if convicted.  The indictment reveals that Watson has previously spent time in federal prison for similar offenses.

The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jevan Antonio Miller, 28, a Jamaican citizen residing in Thomasville, Georgia, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity and interstate travel with intent to engage in illicit sexual conduct after previously pleading guilty in federal court. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “It is one of my office’s top priorities to aggressively prosecute sexual predators, like this defendant, who prey upon our children. Our outstanding state and federal law enforcement partners are unified in their commitment to stopping these sick individuals, and my office will continue to deliver successful prosecutions and lengthy prison sentences to keep our kids safe.”

Court documents reflect that between April 10, 2025, and April 12, 2025, detectives of the Tallahassee Police Department and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, along with Homeland Security Investigations, participated in a joint undercover operation in Leon County focused on identifying individuals using the Internet to sexually exploit children. During the operation, investigators identified the defendant, an adult male who was soliciting an undercover detective, whom the defendant thought was a 15-year-old girl, for sex through an online website. The defendant drove from Thomasville, Georgia, to a meeting location in Tallahassee where he was intercepted by law enforcement and immediately arrested. Investigators discovered that the defendant unlawfully remained in the United States on a student visa after it expired in 2022.

“This predator traveled across state lines with the sole intent to sexually exploit a child he believed was just 15 years old,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “Our amazing joint law enforcement team hatched a plan to intercept and arrest this deviant before he could carry out his vile plans. His actions of using the internet to prey on vulnerable minors for illicit sexual conduct is reprehensible and will not be tolerated.”

Miller’s imprisonment will be followed by a five-year term of supervised release, meaning if he violates any of the conditions of his supervision, he will potentially face an additional period of incarceration. He will also be required to register as a sex offender.

The case involved a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Quinnaland Jerome Rhodes, 39, of Apalachicola, Florida, Imuel Wade Thompkins, 31, of Missouri City, Texas, and Derron Skinner, 34, of Houston, Texas, were sentenced to prison for conspiracy to commit burglaries, bank burglary, and bank larceny. Thompkins was sentenced to four years in prison; Skinner received a three-year prison term; and Rhodes was sentenced to two years in prison. The sentences were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the outstanding investigative work by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Port St. Joe Police Department, and the FBI, these offenders and their multi-state burglary scheme were stopped cold in their tracks.  My office will continue to back up the hard work of our law enforcement partners with aggressive prosecutions to send criminals like these men to federal prison.”

On December 10, 2023, and December 23, 2023, Skinner, Thompkins, and Rhodes committed a string of ATM burglaries at banks in Port St. Joe and Callaway, Florida. To commit the burglaries, the defendants used stolen Ford F-250 trucks and tow chains to forcibly open the ATMs. After Thompkins and Rhodes were arrested, it was discovered that Skinner and Thompkins also committed ATM burglaries using stolen Ford F-250 trucks at banks in Oregon and Missouri. The conspirators’ criminal actions caused approximately $351,284 in damage.

“This case demonstrates the importance of strong partnerships between local, state, and federal law enforcement,” said Chief of Police Jake Richards, Port St Joe Police Department. “These were well-organized property crimes that impacted our community and others across the country. Because of coordinated investigative work, those responsible are now being held accountable.”

Sheriff Tommy Ford, Bay County Sheriff’s Office said: “When criminals target our communities, we work together to hold them accountable and protect the people we serve.”

All three defendants will be on supervised release for three years following their release from prison. They were ordered to pay $351,284 in restitution.

The case involved a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, the Port St. Joe Police Department, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Malcolm Terrell Louis, 40, of Pensacola, was sentenced to 17 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to two counts of possession with intent to distribute 5 grams of more of methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana, two counts of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the outstanding work of the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners, my office was able to deliver this successful prosecution to keep drugs and this dangerous criminal off our streets.  This is yet another win for Operation Take Back America, fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to unleash the full power of the Department of Justice to incapacitate the violent drug traffickers and career criminals who have terrorized our streets for far too long.”

According to court records, on December 17, 2024, law enforcement observed a parked vehicle outside a housing complex in Pensacola with the engine running and no one inside. Multiple bags of narcotics including methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana, cell phones, and a Glock handgun were observed inside the vehicle. The cell phone was later identified as belonging to the defendant and his fingerprints were on one of the bags of narcotics. The methamphetamine weighed over 50 grams. On March 7, 2025, law enforcement executed a search warrant at a residence in Pensacola that was occupied by the defendant and others. Investigators located multiple firearms, ammunition, and multiple bags of narcotics, including methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and marijuana. The methamphetamine weighed over 25 grams. The defendant is a multi-time convicted felon, who was released from state prison in 2024 after a five-year sentence.

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Etherton.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Adrian Dion Pettaway Jr., 24, of Pensacola, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging him with distribution of a controlled substance. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.

Pettaway appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Hope T. Cannon on December 22, 2025, in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for February 17, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

If convicted, Pettaway faces between five to 40 years’ imprisonment.

The case involved a joint investigation by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey Tharp is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Ke Anthony Javon Blackmon, 29, and Averee Kathryn Savage, 27, both of Pensacola, were indicted by a federal grand jury. Each defendant has been charged with conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.

Blackmon appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Michael J. Frank in Pensacola, Florida. Trial is scheduled for March 16, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

Savage appeared for her arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Hope T. Cannon in Pensacola, Florida. Trial is scheduled for January 20, 2026, at 8:30 am before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

If convicted, as charged, they each face a minimum mandatory of ten years up to life imprisonment on the drug charges and a maximum of 15 years imprisonment on the gun charge.

The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Garret Culpepper, 25, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, possession with intent to distribute marijuana, and unlawful possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case is the result of the outstanding investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and our federal law enforcement partners, which dismantled a large-scale drug trafficking scheme by the defendant. My office will continue to deliver successful prosecutions, like this one, to fulfill the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi through Operation Take Back America that our communities would be liberated from the scourge of drugs and criminal violence that has plagued our streets for far too long.”

Court documents reflect that beginning in 2023, investigators identified the defendant as a significant distributor of illicit marijuana and THC products, including THC ‘vape’ cartridges. Investigators were able to detail the defendant’s involvement in the manufacture and distribution of thousands of THC cartridges, hundreds of pounds of THC products such as wax, and thousands of pounds of raw marijuana.  This investigation ultimately led to the execution of a search warrant at the defendant’s Tallahassee residence on March 18, 2025, during which investigators recovered equipment designed to fill THC vape cartridges in bulk, just under 34 pounds of THC products, approximately 15 pounds of raw marijuana, body armor, multiple firearms, including rifles and handguns staged for easy access throughout the residence, and over $80,000 in U.S. currency.

Culpepper faces a total of up to life imprisonment on the combined conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute, and firearms possession charges.   

The case involved a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.

Sentencing for Culpepper is scheduled for March 16, 2026, at 10:00 am, at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor. 

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Lionel Mitchel Crawford, 54, of Marianna, Florida was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to Distribution of 5 Grams or More of Methamphetamine and 50 Grams or More of a Mixture and Substance Containing Methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Methamphetamine has a devastating impact on our communities, but our state and federal law enforcement partners remain relentless in their execution of operations like this one to rid our streets of this deadly drug and the criminals who peddle it. My office will continue to deliver on the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi through Operation Take Back America to use the full force of the law to protect our communities from drug traffickers like this defendant.” 

According to court records, on December 12, 2024, the defendant sold over 50 grams of methamphetamine during a law enforcement undercover operation.  The sale occurred at the defendant’s property in Jackson County, Florida. The defendant has a previous conviction for a serious drug felony.

“This joint effort brought a methamphetamine trafficker to justice,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin Bobbitt of DEA Miami Field Division. “Methamphetamine destroys families and DEA will not stop until the flow of this poison is stopped.”

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Eric Welch and Jessica Etherton.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jose Neftali Monge-Guevara, 38, of El Salvador, was sentenced yesterday to nearly two months in federal prison after pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The criminal alien has repeatedly shown complete disregard for our nation’s immigration laws, and now he’ll spend time in federal prison before being deported for the third – and hopefully final – time. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi launched Operation Take Back America to repel the invasion of illegal immigration that persisted unchecked for the past several years, and my office will continue to fulfill that mission with successful prosecutions like this one.”

According to court records, Monge-Guevara was discovered to be illegally in the United States after he was encountered by the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office and Florida Highway Patrol during a traffic stop in Wakulla County, Florida, on October 26, 2025. Law enforcement determined that Monge-Guevara was a citizen and national of El Salvador who had been previously deported or removed from the United States in 2013 and 2014. Thereafter, Monge-Guevara had not applied for nor obtained permission from the United States Secretary of Homeland Security or the Attorney General to reenter the United States.

An ICE detainer has been lodged against Monge-Guevara, and deportation proceedings against him will commence soon.

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Highway Patrol, and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Noe Zamudio Hernandez, 43, of Mexico, pleaded guilty in federal court to attempted enticement of a minor and illegal reentry of a previously removed alien. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work of the Bay County Sheriff’s Office, in close collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners, this previously deported illegal alien was stopped before he could sexually victimize a child. My office will continue to back up this great work by our law enforcement partners with successful prosecutions, and this criminal alien sexual predator will find himself in federal prison before being swiftly deported from this country.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant came under investigation in 2024 during an operation aimed at identifying individuals targeting children for sexual exploitation. During the operation, the defendant communicated with an individual he believed was a minor to arrange for a sexual transaction. When the defendant was arrested, law enforcement learned he was unlawfully present in the United States and had been previously removed to Mexico.

Zamudio Hernandez faces a mandatory minimum sentence of ten years’ imprisonment up to life in prison. 

The case involved a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 26, 2026, at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

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, human and drug trafficking.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Isaiah Markeis Sims, 23, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Operation Take Back America continues to deliver on the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi that our communities would be made safer by unleashing the full power of the Department of Justice to crack down on the perpetrators of violent crime. I am very proud of the excellent work by Sheriff Chip Simmons and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, in collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners, to remove this dangerous felon from our streets, and my office will continue to back up their efforts with successful prosecutions.”

Court documents reflect that on August 25, 2025, deputies with the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle, and the defendant was a passenger in the vehicle. The defendant fled on foot from the deputies and when he fell to the ground, deputies located a loaded Glock handgun beside him on the ground. The defendant is a convicted felon.

Sims faces up to fifteen years’ imprisonment. 

The case involved a joint investigation by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 24, 2026, at 10:00am at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell II.

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, human and drug trafficking.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Tavaris Andre Donaldson, 30, of Madison, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury for failing to register as a sex offender. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.

Donaldson appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­February 23, 2026, before District Judge Mark E. Walker.

If convicted, Donaldson faces up to ten years’ imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service and the Madison County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Gabriel Michael Stoelzel, 26, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for attempting to entice or persuade a minor to engage in sexual activity, distribution of child pornography, and receipt of child pornography after previously pleading guilty in federal court. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “It is one of our highest duties to protect our children from the predations of sex offenders like this defendant, so I applaud the outstanding investigative work by our state and federal law enforcement partners to identify and catch this offender. My office will continue to prosecute these sick individuals with the full force of the law and seek maximum punishment for their disgusting crimes to keep our children safe, both online and in our communities.”

Court documents reflect that in 2024, the Tallahassee Police Department received CyberTips that were generated by the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children based on information provided by online social media platforms. Records show that while living in Tallahassee the defendant uploaded child pornography to social media servers while he sent the files to other users. An investigation revealed that the defendant had been communicating with other users, some of whom said that they were as young as 14 years of age, to convince them to meet for sex. Additionally, law enforcement searched the defendant’s Tallahassee residence and uncovered evidence that the defendant sent and received child pornography through an online application.

“Protecting children from exploitation is one of the most critical responsibilities of law enforcement,” said Chief Lawrence Revell. “This sentence reflects the gravity of the harm inflicted on victims and the unwavering commitment of our investigators to identify offenders, work in close partnership with our federal counterparts, and ensure those who prey on children are held fully accountable. The Tallahassee Police Department will continue to use every investigative tool available to protect children and uphold the safety of our community.”

“There is no safe haven for anyone who preys on children,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “The FBI will continue to aggressively investigate these crimes, which inflict irreparable harm and lasting trauma to the victims. This case highlights the critical partnership between our agents and state law enforcement partners and ensures there is one less predator victimizing the most innocent and vulnerable members of our community.”

Stoelzel’s imprisonment will be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, meaning if he violates any of the conditions of his supervision, he will potentially face additional prison time.

The case involved a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

PANAMA CITY, FLORIDA – Mark David Swearingen, 32, of Cottondale, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to possess and transportation of child pornography. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners are unified in their commitment to root out and eliminate the threats posed by predators who sexually exploit and victimize children, and this investigation and successful prosecution is another step toward achieving that goal. The possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material has the effect of re-victimizing the sexually exploited children each and every time those horrific images and videos are shared, and this abhorrent crime deserves the most severe punishment. My office will not hesitate to pursue maximum justice in these cases to keep our kids safe.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant came under investigation in 2025 when law enforcement received information indicating the defendant had been using a Google account to access child pornography. Law enforcement sought a search warrant and discovered the defendant possessed hundreds of images of minors being sexually abused by adults on several electronic devices.

Swearingen faces a mandatory minimum sentence of five years’ imprisonment and up to twenty years’ imprisonment, and a lifetime of supervision upon release.  

The case involved a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement with assistance from the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 26, 2026, at 3:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Cedrick Campbell, 35, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on one count of transportation of child pornography and one count of possession/access with intent to view child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges.

Campbell appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick on January 5, 2026, for his initial appearance at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida. Trial is scheduled for March 2, 2026, at 8:15 am before District Court Judge Robert L. Hinkle.

If convicted, Campbell, faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on each count.

This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Tallahassee Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – DaMorie Lamontay Miles, 19, of Gainesville, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for one count of possession with intent to distribute marijuana, one count of unlawful transfer or possession of a machine gun, and one count of receipt, possession, transfer, or production of a firearm which is not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

Miles appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry on January 7, 2026 in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for February 11, 2026, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor in Gainesville, Florida.

If convicted on all counts, Miles faces up to 40 years’ imprisonment.

The case is being jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Gainesville Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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.

As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Eduardo Saavedra Melayes, 45, a Mexican national, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for aggravated identify theft, falsely representing U.S. citizenship, and false statement in application for passport. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This illegal alien chose to try to lie, cheat, and steal his way into this country, but thanks to the vigilance and excellent investigation of our federal partners he will now find himself in federal prison before being swiftly deported thereafter. My office has zero-tolerance for violations of our nation’s laws, and we will aggressively prosecute these crimes to the fullest extent.”

Court documents reflect that in December of 2023, the defendant submitted a passport application in-person at a Panama City post office. Upon processing, the application was denied due to indicators of fraud. An investigation uncovered that the defendant submitted the passport application using someone else’s identity. The documents submitted during the application process were possessed unlawfully. Additionally, a previous false passport was used in 2008, 2009, 2024, and 2025 to travel between the United States and Mexico. The defendant was at all times unlawfully present in the United States.

“We are a key partner in the United States’ work to reduce illegal immigration and root out those who endeavor to exploit the U.S. travel system,” said Ryan McSeveney, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Miami Field Office. “DSS proudly coordinates with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our U.S. and international law enforcement partners to investigate allegations of crime related to passport and visa fraud — and to bring those who commit these crimes to justice.”

The sentence was the result of an investigation by the Diplomatic Security Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Ernest Lee Thomas II, 35, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The outstanding work by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, in close collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners, led to this successful prosecution, which will ensure this dangerous offender is kept off our streets. The safety of our communities is non-negotiable, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute all violations of federal law to incapacitate criminal offenders who threaten our peace.”

Court documents reflect that on May 31, 2025, deputies with the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle occupied by the defendant. During the traffic stop, a search of the vehicle uncovered a loaded black .45-caliber Taurus handgun with a round in the chamber and five rounds in the magazine. While speaking with law enforcement, the defendant made statements indicating the firearm belonged to him. The defendant had previously been convicted in the Northern District of Florida of Distribution of Cocaine and Possession of Stolen Firearms.   

The defendant faces up to fifteen years’ imprisonment followed by a term of supervised release. 

This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 24, 2026, at 9:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Edwin Antonio Rodriguez-Gonzalez, 31, of El Salvador, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging him with illegal entry by a deported alien and assault of a government official. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.

Rodriguez-Gonzalez appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick, in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for February 3, 2026, at 8:30 am, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.

If convicted, Rodriguez-Gonzalez faces up to three years’ imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations and the Florida Highway Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Marco Tulio Gonzalez-Oliva, 25, of Honduras, was sentenced to 51 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry and possession of child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The possession of child sexual abuse material is a disgusting offense that perpetuates a cycle of victimization for the innocent children who have been exploited and abused, and my office remains committed to aggressively prosecuting offenders like this defendant to put an end to that. Thanks to the excellent investigative work of the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations, this criminal illegal alien will spend years in federal prison before being deported. My office remains committed to fulfilling the mandate of Operation Take Back America by keeping our communities safe and our border secure.”

According to court records, the defendant was encountered in Okaloosa County, Florida, during the execution of a search warrant at a residence. During a search of the defendant’s cell phone, law enforcement located photographs and videos of child pornography. Investigators also determined the defendant was an illegal alien present in the United States after being previously deported in 2023.   

“Protecting children from online exploitation is not just a duty—it's a moral responsibility,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “Every image and video of child sexual abuse shared on the dark web perpetuates victimization. We will relentlessly pursue those who prey on the innocent, preventing these predators from using the internet as a safe haven.”

“No child should ever be victimized by a predator and we're happy our efforts and partnership helped lead to this sentencing,” said Sheriff Eric Aden, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. “It sends a clear message that possessing child pornography or illegally reentering our country to commit crimes will reap consequences through the results of an united ongoing mission to protect our children.”

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica Etherton.

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.

The case was also 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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit theU.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Ohagee Curry, a/k/a “Gee”, 28, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of a mixture containing methamphetamine and distribution of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners were relentless in their investigation of this large drug trafficking operation, and it paid off with the dismantling of that network through this successful prosecution. My office continues to aggressively prosecute these crimes to fulfill the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the drug traffickers flooding our communities with deadly drugs.”

Curry was one of 14 defendants charged in three different indictments.  He was at the center of a methamphetamine distribution organization operating in Cantonment, Pensacola, and Beulah, Florida, that was uncovered by a multi-year investigation conducted by local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. The defendant obtained packages of methamphetamine from California via the U.S. Mail and by courier from Alabama. He then provided the illegal drugs to others for distribution throughout the Panhandle. Law enforcement seized multiple packages from the mail which contained high purty methamphetamine.

“This successful investigation was the result of great teamwork between our agents and law enforcement partners,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Kevin Bobbitt, DEA Miami Field Division. “We will not stop until these criminals are brought to justice.”

“This case highlights the power of strong collaboration between local, state, and federal law enforcement,” said Sheriff B. Johnson, Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. “Together, we are committed to removing dangerous drugs from our communities.”

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the United States Postal Inspection Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Walter Narramore.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF comprises agents and officers from multiple agencies with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Marco Olavarrieta-Beranza, also known as “Marco Leonardo Olavarrieta,” 45, a Mexican national, pleaded guilty in federal court to illegal reentry into the United States. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This sexual predator was previously deported after committing a heinous sex crime against a minor, and I applaud the excellent work of our federal law enforcement partners who continue to follow through on the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the criminal aliens who have violated our nation’s laws and threaten our communities. My office has zero tolerance for criminal activity of any kind, and we will aggressively prosecute offenders like this defendant to keep our communities safe and our border secure.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant was deported from the United States in 2019 after being convicted of sexual abuse of a minor under the age of fourteen and attempted sexual abuse of a minor under the age of twelve. He illegally returned to the United States and was found in Escambia County, Florida, in November 2025. He now faces up to twenty years in prison followed by removal from the United States.

The case was investigated by U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant United States Attorney Brooke DiSalvo is prosecuting the case.

Olavarrieta-Beranza’s sentencing is scheduled for March 11, 2026, at 10:30 am at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jean-Marie Lubin Celestin, 31, of Ocala, Florida, was sentenced to serve eight years and six months in prison, followed by a 10-year term of supervised release, after previously pleading guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners are committed to eradicating drug traffickers from our communities, and my office will continue to back up excellent investigations like this one with successful prosecutions to send these peddlers of poisonous drugs to federal prison. The residents of the Northern District of Florida deserve safe streets and drug-free communities, and that is exactly what we will deliver.”

According to court records, the defendant previously supplied pounds of methamphetamine to a drug trafficker operating in the area of Crawfordville, Florida. Law enforcement conducted an investigation wherein the defendant delivered approximately four pounds of methamphetamine, resulting in both his arrest and seizure of the narcotics. The defendant had prior state convictions in Florida, Georgia, and Missouri, and had only been released from the Florida Department of Corrections 15 months prior to his arrest in this case. 

“This sentence sends a clear message that drug trafficking will not be tolerated in Wakulla County,” said Sheriff Jared F. Miller. “Methamphetamine destroys lives, families, and entire communities. I commend our Deputies and our federal partners for their hard work on this case and thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for holding this offender accountable. Working together, we will continue to target those who bring dangerous drugs into our community and do everything possible to keep Wakulla County safe.”

“Methamphetamine is a poison that destroys lives and tears at the fabric of our communities,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingengo. “This recidivist criminal repeatedly chose personal gain and profit by pushing these dangerous narcotics into our neighborhoods, putting countless lives at risk, and contributing to the cycle of addiction and crime. Alongside our partners, we’re committed to protecting the public and holding those who traffic in these deadly substances accountable.”

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jason R. Coody and Former Assistant United States Attorney Harley W. Ferguson.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) 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. 

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website.  For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Christopher W. Glover, 47, of Simms, Alabama, has been indicted in federal court on charges of Attempted Sex Trafficking of a Minor, Attempted Enticement of a Minor, and Traveling in Interstate Commerce to Engage in Illicit Sexual Conduct. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

At a detention hearing in federal court in Pensacola, evidence was presented that Glover communicated with who he believed to be a 14-year-old female and offered to pay her hundreds of dollars in return for sexual acts. It is alleged that Glover then traveled from Alabama, where he worked for the Baldwin County School District, to Pensacola to meet with the minor. The purported minor, however, was an undercover law enforcement officer. When Glover reached Pensacola to engage in the sexual acts with the minor, he was taken into custody. Glover remains detained in the custody of the United States Marshals Service pending trial.

Glover is scheduled for trial before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida, on February 17, 2026.

If convicted, Glover faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ up to life imprisonment to be followed by supervised release and registration as a sexual offender.  

The case is being jointly investigated by the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, Florida Highway Patrol, and the United States Marshals Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

GAINESVILLE, PENSACOLA, & TALLAHASSEE – United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced today that thirty-four illegal aliens were recently convicted of federal crimes, including thirty-one previously deported aliens convicted for illegal reentry into the United States. One of those previously deported illegal aliens was also convicted of false document crimes.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “We are a nation of laws, and my office is firmly committed to enforcing those laws by aggressively prosecuting violations. The Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America delivers on the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi that we will not tolerate those who violate our nation’s laws, and we will deploy the full resources of the federal government to keep our borders secure and our communities safe.”

According to court records, thirty-one defendants had each been previously removed due to being unlawfully present in the country and thereafter illegally reentered without seeking the necessary permission or approval from the United States. The illegal aliens convicted since September 2025 include:

• Jose Victor Aguilar Zelaya, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in July 2010. He was encountered in Okaloosa County on March 5, 2025.
• Elin Itay Martinez-Lemus a/k/a Carlos Mauricio Arita-Lemus, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in December 2011 and August 2012. He was encountered in Escambia County on March 15, 2025.
• Joel Nahum Sanchez Montoya, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in October 2006. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on May 6, 2025.
• Omar Jimenez-Salinas, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in June 2014. He was encountered in Escambia County on May 29, 2025.
• Narciso Oswaldo Moreno-Zepeda, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in June 2014. He was encountered in Escambia County on June 26, 2025.
• Eusebio Lizardi-Bautista, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in February 2014. He was encountered in Escambia County on July 7, 2025.
• Ivan Reyes-Andrade, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in August 2011 and April 2015. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on August 1, 2025.
• Orlando Raudales-Banegas, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in August 2010. He was encountered in Okaloosa County in August of 2025.
• Salvador Rodriguez-Rojas, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in October 2015 and November 2016. He was encountered in Escambia County on August 23, 2025.
• Denis Arnaldo Mendoz-Martinez, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in April 2012, February 2016, December 2018, and October 2019. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on September 2, 2025.
• Marin Mendez Vasquez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in September 2007, November 2008, and July 2010. He was encountered in Alachua County on September 5, 2025.
• Pedro Lopez Calderon, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in January 2010, March 2017, and March 2018 and November 2016. He was encountered in Okaloosa County on September 16, 2025.
• Darwin Noe Ramirez-Guillen, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in October 2014. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on September 23, 2025.
• Jonathan Callejas-Callejas, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in July 2018. He was encountered in Escambia County on September 25, 2025.
• Jose Bernardino Varillas-Morales, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in December 2019 and January 2020. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on September 26, 2025.
• Mateo Linares-Aparicio, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in September 2014. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on September 29, 2025.
• Selvin Ramos Vasquez, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in April 2015 and July 2015. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on October 3, 2025.
• Jose Gilberto Vasquez Martinez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in December 2010, November 2011, and February 2024. He was encountered in Leon County on October 8, 2025.
• Agustin Bello Rodriguez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in April 2021. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on October 8, 2025.
• Marvin Arenas-Beltran, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in February 2017. He was encountered in Leon County on October 9, 2025.
• Bulfrano Tamayo-Rodriguez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in August 2006 and April 2015. He was encountered in Leon County on October 9, 2025.
• German Aleman, a citizen of El Salvador, who was previously removed in September 2009, August 2011, and January 2013. He was encountered in Leon County on October 9, 2025.
• Jose Del Carmen Perez-Gomez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in May 2022. He was encountered in Escambia County on October 14, 2025.
• Eduardo Ramirez-Francisco, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in March 2019. He was encountered in Okaloosa County on October 16, 2025.
• Edin Francisco Trinidad-Moradel, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in February 2019. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on October 16, 2025.
• Yunior Johel Vasquez-Garcia, a citizen of Honduras, who was previously removed in January 2016. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on October 25, 2025.
• Alberto Reyes-Monroy, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in October 2016. He was encountered in Bay County on October 29, 2025.
• Jose Alvarado Lopez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in June and August 2019. He was encountered in Bay County on October 29, 2025.
• Basilio Coxcahua-Arohua, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in January 2015 and twice in March 2018. He was encountered in Okaloosa County on October 29, 2025.
• Roberto Rios-Narvaez, a Mexican national, who was previously removed in December 2010. He was encountered in Santa Rosa County on November 6, 2025.

Four aliens were also convicted of false document crimes. They included:

• Celso Javier Melgar, a citizen of Panama.
• Luis Maldonado, a citizen of Guatemala.
• Gustavo Adolfo Ramirez-Guillen, a citizen of Honduras.
• Flavio Bernardo-Padilla, a Mexican national. Bernardo-Padilla was also convicted of illegal reentry based on his unlawful return after his prior removal in November 2018.

“The enforcement of our nation’s immigration laws is essential to maintaining the integrity of our borders and the rule of law,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations acting Field Office Director Kelei Walker. “Illegal aliens can take control of their departure with the CBP Home App. The United States is offering illegal aliens $1,000 and a free flight to self-deport now. We encourage every person here illegally to take advantage of this offer and reserve the chance to come back to the U.S. the right, legal way to live the American dream. If not, you will be arrested and deported without a chance to return.”

“Bringing to justice those who not only reenter the United States illegally after they have been previously deported, but also commit document fraud, is critical to protecting the integrity of our nation’s legal and financial systems,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno.  “The enforcement of our nation’s immigration laws relies on thorough investigation and strong partnerships, and these convictions demonstrate our commitment to holding accountable those who take their violations to the next level by attempting to deceive authorities with false documents.”

The cases were investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, with assistance from several state and local partners. Assistant United States Attorneys Brooke A. DiSalvo, Jessica S. Etherton, Alicia H. Forbes, Adam Hapner, Eric Mountin, Walter Narramore, Christopher C. Patterson, Joseph Ravelo, Jeffrey M. Tharp, and Former Assistant United States Attorneys Harley W. Ferguson and Jenna H. Callahan prosecuted the cases.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA and TALLAHASSEE – Today, United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced that 11 previously deported illegal aliens have been indicted separately by a federal grand jury for illegal reentry into the United States.

Juan Ramos Salgado, 49, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported in 2012. Trial is set for February 2, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

Edgar Castaneda-Herrera, 45, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported twice in 2006 and 2008. Plea and sentencing are set for January 14, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

Erlin Adonay Hernandez-Navas, 37, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in November 2025, after previously being deported three times in 2008, 2009 and 2014.

Carlos Sanchez-Mendez, 35, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported three times in 2010, 2014 and 2016. Plea and sentencing are set for January 14, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

Allan Josue Sanchez-Lozano, 28, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in November 2025, after previously being deported in 2016. Trial is set for February 17, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

Leobardo Gomez-Lopez, 41, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in November 2025, after previously being deported twice in 2016 and 2017. Plea and sentencing are set for January 22, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

Jose Alberto Orozco-Sanchez, 45, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported twice in 2019. Trial is set for February 2, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

Nicolas Jorge-Garcia, 41, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in November 2025, after previously being deported five times, including in 2007, three times in 2012, and again in 2015. Trial is set for February 2, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

Andres Martin Valdivia Moran, 43, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in December 2025, after previously being deported twice in 2017 and 2019. Trial is set for February 17, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

Carlos H. Solorsano Castellanos, 35, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in December 2025, after previously being deported in 2014. Plea and sentencing are set for January 22, 2026, before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

Kevin A. Perez-Portillo, 31, of El Salvador, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in December 2025, after previously being deported in 2017. Trial is set for February 17, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

The penalty for illegally reentering the United States after deportation is a maximum of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Orozco-Sanchez and Valdivia Moran both face a maximum of 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine pursuant to allegations of prior convictions qualifying for an increased maximum sentence.

The cases are being investigated by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations with assistance from the

Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, the Valparaiso Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica S. Etherton, Christopher C. Patterson, Walter E. Narramore, Alicia H. Forbes and Brooke DiSalvo are prosecuting the cases.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt.  All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Devon Oliver, 18, of Gainesville, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging him with possession of a firearm with a removed serial number. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.

Oliver appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry on December 23, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for ­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­­January 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m., before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.

If convicted, Oliver faces up to five years’ imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Gainesville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Xin Liu, 40, of Apopka, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging her with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.

Liu appeared for her arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry on December 23, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for January 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.

If convicted, Liu faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigations and the Gainesville Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Tre’Veonce Ezekiel Sanders, 19, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a machinegun, possession of an unregistered firearm, and possession with intent to distribute marijuana. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud and deeply appreciate the vigilance of our federal law enforcement partners who intercepted this dangerous device in the mail and investigated its intended recipient. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi promised to Take Back America from the offenders intent on committing criminal violence within our communities, and my office will continue to deliver on that promise with successful prosecutions like this.”

Court documents reflect that in August 2025, agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations were notified that a parcel, which contained a machinegun conversion device, was shipped from China and destined for the defendant’s residence in Pensacola, Florida. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at the residence and located a Glock handgun that had been modified to fire as a machinegun, multiple machinegun conversion devices, marijuana, ammunition, and over $6,000 in United States currency.

Sanders faces up to ten years’ imprisonment on each of the firearm charges and up to five years on the narcotics charge.  

The case involved a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jessica S. Etherton.

Sentencing is scheduled for March 10, 2026, at 1:00 pm at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America (https://www.justice.gov/dag/media/1393746/dl?inline ) a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Robinson Abrahan Esparragoza Regalado, 26, a Venezuelan national, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging him with possession of a firearm by an alien illegally or unlawfully in the United States. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.

Regalado appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry on December 23, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for January 28, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.

If convicted, Regalado faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Florida Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Nicholas Wayne Finley, 37, and Jason Dean Atkinson, 43, both of Havana, Florida, were sentenced to prison for possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon. Finley was sentenced to 54 months in prison, while Atkinson was sentenced to 37 months. Both brothers will be on supervised release for three years following their release from prison. The sentences were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The family that does crime together does time together. Thanks to the tremendous work of our local and federal law enforcement partners, this pair of dangerous felons have been incapacitated and now find themselves in federal prison. My office remains committed to keeping our community safe by aggressively prosecuting the perpetrators of violent crime who threaten our streets.”

Court documents reflect that federal law enforcement executed a search warrant at the two brothers’ residence on July 10, 2025. Officers found nine firearms in Finley’s bedroom along with numerous types of ammunition. Atkinson was found with a round of .45 caliber ammunition in his pocket, and a .45 caliber 1911-style firearm with obliterated manufacturer’s markings and additional ammunition was found in Atkinson’s trailer.

Finley had multiple prior felony convictions from Iowa, while Atkinson had a prior federal conviction for conspiracy to manufacture and distribute methamphetamine and possession of firearms in furtherance of drug-trafficking, along with two Florida convictions for possession of methamphetamine.

The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Havana Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

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.

As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Thomas Zachary Breeding, 41, of Panama City, Florida, was sentenced to a total of 77 months in prison after he pleaded guilty to retaliation against a federal informant, transmission of threatening communications in interstate commerce, and supervised release violations. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I appreciate the excellent investigative work by our state and federal law enforcement partners that led to this successful prosecution. My office has zero tolerance for those who threaten our communities with violence, and we will aggressively prosecute such offenses to keep our residents safe.”

Court documents reflect that on May 31, 2024, the defendant sent Facebook messages threatening bodily injury to an individual. In the messages, the defendant blamed the individual for sending him to prison, called him a “rat,” and promised to “break” a “knife off” in their “guts.” The defendant sent the threats to retaliate against the individual for having provided information to federal law enforcement as part of a prior federal investigation and prosecution of the defendant for distributing cocaine. The defendant was still on federal supervised release for that prior case at the time he made the threats, and he admitted to violating the terms and conditions of his supervision as a result of the new charges.

“DEA and our law enforcement partners will not stop protecting our communities from traffickers pushing poisons into our neighborhoods and threatening the safety and security of those helping us do just that,” said DEA Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne L. Reuter. “This man was convicted of distributing cocaine and then threatened members of the community who wanted his actions stopped.”

Breeding was sentenced to 47 months in prison for the retaliation and threat charges and an additional 30 months to run consecutively for the supervised release violations.

The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, with assistance from the Walton County Sheriff’s Office and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – John Kuhlmann, 79, of Daytona Beach, Florida, was sentenced on Thursday to pay $1,005,313.00 in restitution and serve three years of supervised release for operating an unlicensed money transmitting business in connection with a nationwide computer technical support fraud scheme that preyed upon more than 300 elderly vulnerable victims. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This despicable fraudster facilitated the financial exploitation of several elderly victims, robbing them of not only their money, but of their dignity, while lining his own pockets and those of his co-conspirators. My office will deploy every available legal resource to enforce the substantial restitution judgment entered against this offender to return as much stolen money to the victims as possible. I deeply appreciate the excellent investigative work by our state and federal law enforcement partners that led to his arrest and the dismantling of this fraud scheme, and urge residents to remain vigilant to similar schemes targeting the elderly.”

Court documents reflect that beginning in November 2018, the defendant opened two corporations in Florida, “Seminole Services, Inc.” and “QB Accounting Services,” which purportedly were in business to provide computer tech services. Neither business was registered as a money transmitting service as required by law, but the defendant had opened the businesses to receive money from elderly victims and then wire those funds to his co-conspirators who were located in foreign countries. These co-conspirators used a variety of tactics on victims—including convincing them that their computers had been infected with computer viruses, had been hacked, or their financial information was otherwise at risk of being stolen—to fraudulently convince victims to pay as much as $150,000.00 for computer repair services. Over the course of his involvement in the fraud scheme, the defendant transferred approximately $3.5 million dollars in victim funds through his business bank accounts.

“The Secret Service is committed to protecting our nation’s financial infrastructure from threats both foreign and domestic. That commitment is reflected in the outstanding work of our Special Agents and their investigative and prosecutorial partners in the Northern District of Florida,” said Resident Agent in Charge Seth Reister, United States Secret Service, Tallahassee Resident Office.  “This investigation, prosecution, and sentencing highlight the real costs of elder fraud schemes, not only in dollars lost, but in the very real harm inflicted on some of our most vulnerable citizens.”

“This long-term investigation proved the defendant was intimately involved with a scheme to defraud our elderly and its resolution exemplifies the high level of dedication demonstrated by all agencies involved to bring this defendant to justice,” said Inspector in Charge, Bladismir Rojo, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Miami Division. “We, along with our law enforcement partners, remain committed to dismantling transnational criminal organizations that target our nation’s most vulnerable population.”

The case involved a joint investigation by the United States Secret Service, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Meredith L. Steer and Justin M. Keen.

If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with appropriate agencies and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish, and other languages are available.

More information about the department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at www.justice.gov/elderjustice. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints can be filed with the FTC at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/ or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Justice Department provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, at www.ovc.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Teodoro Rodriguez-Alvarez, 34, of the country of Mexico, was sentenced to 10 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to Possession of a Firearm by an Illegal Alien. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office has zero tolerance for criminal illegal aliens who brazenly violate our nation’s laws and threaten the safety of our community. We will continue to back up the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners who catch these criminals, and will enforce our laws to the fullest extent with aggressive prosecutions followed by swift deportations to keep these dangerous illegal aliens off of our streets and out of our country.”

On July 15, 2025, a Gulf Breeze Police Department officer responded to the Pensacola Bay Bridge in reference to a pickup truck stopped in the emergency lane.  The officer arrived at the scene and identified the sole vehicle occupant as Teodoro Rodriguez-Alvarez by his Mexican passport.  After speaking with the defendant, law enforcement arrested him for multiple driving offenses.  A vehicle inventory was conducted before the truck was towed.  During the inventory, a pistol was found in a bag near the driver’s seat.  The defendant is a citizen of Mexico and was illegally in the United States.

“Criminal illegal aliens who arm themselves and break our laws endanger the public and show a complete disrespect for the laws of the United States,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “Federal immigration and firearms laws exist to protect the public. HSI is making our neighborhoods safer for everyone and will not stop identifying, investigating, and prosecuting anyone who violate these laws.”

The case involved an investigation by the Gulf Breeze Police Department, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Vinson Tavaris Brown, 33, of Homestead, Florida, was sentenced to three years in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and illegal possession of a machinegun. The sentence announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the outstanding work by our state and federal law enforcement partners, this dangerous felon has been taken off our streets and sent to federal prison. The safety of our communities is not negotiable, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute these offenses to fulfill the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from violent criminals.”

Court documents reflect that the Tallahassee Police Department stopped a vehicle in which Brown was a passenger after it made an illegal U-Turn leaving Zingales Sports Bar. Three of the occupants of the vehicle complied with officers, but the defendant attempted to reach under his seat and then fled from officers on foot. Officers caught the defendant and detained him, then discovered a Glock 27 equipped with a machinegun conversion device and an extended magazine under the seat that the defendant attempted to reach.

Brown had previous felony convictions for child abuse (two counts), possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and three separate incidents of fleeing or attempting to elude police.

Brown’s three-year prison term will be followed by three years of supervised release.

The case involved an investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

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.

As part of its PSN strategy, the United States Attorney’s Office is encouraging everyone to lock their car doors, particularly at night. Burglaries from unlocked automobiles are a significant source of guns for criminals in the Northern District of Florida. Please do your part and protect yourself by locking your car doors.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA – Christopher Eugene Thompson, 49, of Gainesville, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury on charges of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of an unregistered National Firearms Act weapon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.

Thompson appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry on September 30, 2025, in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for February 11, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.

If convicted, Thompson faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment for the drug trafficking crime, up to 15 years for possessing a firearm as a convicted felon, and up to 10 years for possession of an unregistered NFA weapon.  Possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime carries a consecutive five-year term with a maximum of life imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Gainesville Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Khristine N. Harper, 42, of Pensacola, was sentenced to two years in federal prison after having previously pleaded guilty to twenty counts of aiding and assisting the preparation of false tax returns and one count of identity theft. The guilty plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud the excellent investigative work by our federal law enforcement partners to catch this fraudster and dismantle her scheme to rip off American taxpayers. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute fraudsters and thieves, and will ensure they find themselves in federal prison for their crimes.”

Court documents reflect that between 2018 and 2024, Harper routinely prepared and filed fraudulent income tax returns for her clients by listing false amounts for various deductions, credits, and other items that were never provided to her by those clients. After Harper became aware in July 2023 that the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation was investigating her, she changed the name of her tax preparation business from Kings Tax Service to Echelon Tax. She also obtained a Preparer Tax Identification Number (PTIN) in another person’s name without permission and filed her clients’ 2023 returns using that fraudulently obtained PTIN.

In addition to being sentenced to two years in prison, Harper was ordered to pay $284,490 in restitution to the Internal Revenue Service as a condition of a two-year term of supervised release to follow her prison sentence, $132,809.74 in statutorily mandated costs of prosecution, and a $2,100 special monetary assessment.

“Tax return preparers who deliberately file fraudulent returns are committing serious federal crimes with every submission,” said IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agent in Charge Ron Loecker of the Florida Field Office. “IRS-CI will relentlessly pursue dishonest preparers to protect taxpayers and uphold the integrity of the tax system. Those who break the law will be held accountable—period.”

“This case was the result of coordinated efforts between investigators and prosecutors committed to protecting the public,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “We will continue to aggressively work to identify, investigate and hold accountable those who commit fraud.”

The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Jose Melendez-Rivera, 27, an inmate in a Federal Correctional Institution, was indicted by a federal grand jury for assault with intent to commit murder, assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm, assault resulting in serious bodily injury, and possessing contraband in prison. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.

Melendez-Rivera appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for January 27, 2026, before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

If convicted, Melendez-Rivera faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment for assault with intent to commit murder; ten years’ imprisonment for assault with a dangerous weapon with intent to do bodily harm; ten years’ imprisonment for assault resulting in serious bodily injury; and up to five years imprisonment for possessing contraband in prison.

The case was a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Prisons Special Investigative Services Unit. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

Kevin Noel Ochoa Venegas (a/k/a Kevin Noel Ochoa-Venegas, a/k/a Kevin Noel Banegas Banegas, a/k/a Kevin Noel Banegas, a/k/a Kevin Banegas, a/k/a Kevin Noel Banega), 32, of Honduras, was sentenced to federal prison after previously pleading guilty to illegal reentry of a removed alien. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This criminal illegal alien thought he could continue to violate our nation’s immigration laws with impunity, but Operation Take Back America was launched upon the promise by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi that we would devote our legal resources to fully enforcing federal law against such criminals. This successful prosecution delivers on that promise, and we will ensure this criminal illegal alien is deported yet again, and with our border secure he will not be able to return.”

According to court documents, on April 11, 2025, the defendant was arrested in Bay County, Florida, for driving without a valid license. Law enforcement determined that the defendant was a citizen of Honduras who was illegally present in the United States. An investigation revealed that the defendant was previously removed from the United States in 2016, and again in 2021 after he was convicted in Bay County, Florida, for a sex crime that resulted in him being designated a sex offender. The defendant did not apply for or receive permission to reenter the United States since his last removal from the United States in 2021.

An ICE detainer has been lodged against the defendant, and he will begin deportation proceedings.

The case involved a joint investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA FLORIDA – Scott Robinson, 51, of Pensacola, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury and charged with two counts of drug adulteration, two counts of mail fraud, and two counts of wire fraud. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.

Robinson appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Hope T. Cannon for his arraignment in federal court in Pensacola, Florida. Trial is set for January 20, 2026, before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

If convicted, Robinson faces up to twenty years’ imprisonment on each count.

The case is being investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson is prosecuting the case.

An indictment is merely an allegation by a grand jury that a defendant has committed a violation of federal criminal law and is not evidence of guilt. All defendants are presumed innocent and entitled to a fair trial, during which it will be the government’s burden to prove guilt beyond a reasonable doubt at trial.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access available public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Carlton D. Shoemaker, 51, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to 106 months in prison after previously pleading guilty to two counts of distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This substantial prison sentence sends a strong message that my office will aggressively prosecute and seek maximum punishment for anyone who floods our streets with poisonous drugs and threatens the safety of our community. Through Operation Take Back America, President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi made a promise to the American people that we will deploy the full power of the law to take back our streets from the drug traffickers and violent criminals who have plagued our communities for too long, and this successful prosecution delivers on that promise.”

According to court records, the defendant worked as a security guard at the Venus Relax Inn in Pensacola, Florida. He also lived in one of the motel rooms. After developing evidence that the defendant was selling cocaine and methamphetamine from the motel, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Shoemaker’s motel room in June of 2025. Officers located cocaine, marijuana, and two firearms in the room. The defendant has multiple prior felony convictions for charges including burglary, grand theft, grand theft of a firearm, possession of a short-barreled rifle, and possession of cocaine.   

The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Chad Ryan Puffinbarger, 39, of Panama City, Florida, was sentenced to five years’ imprisonment, followed by five years of supervised release, for receipt of child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The distribution of child sexual abuse material is a heinous, disgusting crime that has the effect of re-victimizing the innocent children who have been exploited each and every time those disturbing videos and photographs are shared. Our outstanding state and federal law enforcement partners remain committed to identifying, targeting, and arresting those sick predators who seek to sexually exploit our children, and my office will continue to back up those arrests with successful prosecutions and federal prison sentences.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant came under investigation in 2021 when it was suspected he had been using a peer-to-peer network to download child pornography from the internet. Law enforcement sought a search warrant for the defendant’s residence, and he admitted to viewing child pornography. Examination of his electronic devices resulted in locating more than 3,000 images of minors being sexually abused by adults.

“Collecting and possessing a cache of vile images depicting the sexual abuse of children is not a victimless crime—as every image represents a real child who has been exploited and harmed,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “This abhorrent behavior inflicts profound harm on these children that lasts a lifetime, all in the name of selfish deviant gratification. The perpetual sharing of this vile content online continually perpetuates the horrific trauma these children have endured, and HSI is committed to eradicating this evil.”

The case involved a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and Florida Department of Law Enforcement (FDLE). The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Meredith L. Steer.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Ryan Isbell, 36, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to producing child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The sexual exploitation and abuse of children is one of the most heinous crimes that deserves severe punishment, and this successful prosecution and lengthy prison sentence ensures this disgusting offender will not be able to victimize another child for decades. I applaud the outstanding investigative work by the Tallahassee Police Department, in close collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners, to help bring this offender to justice.”

Court documents reflect that in 2020 the Tallahassee Police Department received reports that the defendant’s social media account contained child pornography. During the execution of a November 2020 arrest warrant, law enforcement encountered a minor victim who had been exploited by the defendant. A search of the defendant’s computer and cellular telephone confirmed the exploitation had been recorded.

“The production of child sexual abuse material is a horrific crime that inflicts lasting trauma and violates the very innocence of our children,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “The devastating effects of this depraved criminal activity can follow victims throughout their lives, impacting their sense of safety, trust, and overall well-being. HSI remains steadfast in our commitment to aggressively prosecute offenders and protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”

The defendant’s imprisonment will be followed by a 15-year term of supervised release, meaning if he violates any of the conditions of his supervision, he will potentially face an additional period of incarceration. Additionally, the defendant was ordered to pay restitution, and he will be required to register as a sex offender. 

The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by First Assistant United States Attorney Michelle Spaven.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Prashant M. Jenkins Jr., 24, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to four years in federal prison after having previously pled guilty to possession of an unregistered machinegun conversion device. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our outstanding state and federal law enforcement partners are on the front lines keeping our communities safe from violent criminals, like this defendant, and my office stands ready to back up their hard work with successful prosecutions to send those offenders to federal prison.”

Court documents reflect that on October 30, 2024, law enforcement officers found and seized from Jenkins’ residence an AR-style machinegun conversion device, a Glock pistol with a loaded magazine, a loaded AR-15 magazine, approximately 500 grams of marijuana, and other suspected drug trafficking paraphernalia. The conversion device, which itself is considered a machinegun under federal law, was not marked with a serial number and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record as required.

The sentence was the result of a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

TALLAHASSEE, FLORIDA – Hunter Wesley Aultman, 24, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced last week to seven years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and receive child pornography, distribution of child pornography, and receipt of child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Ending the cycle of victimization and sexual exploitation of children that is perpetuated by the distribution of child sexual abuse material remains a top priority for my office. I appreciate the excellent work by our state and federal law enforcement partners to investigate these terrible crimes, and my office will continue to deploy the full force of the law to pursue, prosecute, and punish predators, like this defendant, who threaten the safety and innocence of our children.”

According to court records, in January 2024 the Leon County Sheriff’s Office arrested the defendant for multiple burglaries and seized his cell phone as evidence. A search of the defendant’s cell phone revealed that it contained hundreds of child pornography videos. The phone also contained evidence of multiple online chats in which the defendant traded child pornography with other users. Investigators also discovered evidence that the defendant ran a chat group intended to facilitate the sharing child pornography among its members.

“The deliberate distribution and facilitation of child sexual abuse material is an appalling violation that perpetuates the suffering of innocent children for a lifetime,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “Those who engage in these heinous crimes not only exploit victims but also create networks that perpetually amplify harm and trauma. HSI will relentlessly pursue and prosecute anyone who seeks to profit from or enable the abuse of children.”

Aultman’s sentence of imprisonment will be followed by a ten-year term of supervised release and a requirement to register as a sex offender for the rest of his life. He was also ordered to pay restitution to his victims.

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

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 and led by the U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Criminal Divisions Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), it 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Zackery Chase Brunson, 33, of Shalimar, Florida, was sentenced to 92 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent work by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office in close collaboration with our federal law enforcement partners, this dangerous felon has been removed from our streets and he’ll spend several years behind bars. This successful prosecution is yet another step toward fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to Take Back America from the violent criminals who threaten our communities, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute such offenders to deliver safe streets for the residents of the Northern District of Florida.”

In January 2025, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office Multi-Agency Drug Task Force executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in Shalimar, Florida.  During the search, law enforcement found two rifles, a shotgun, three pistols, and multiple types of ammunition. The defendant is prohibited from possessing a firearm because he was previously convicted of multiple felonies, including possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession of a controlled substance.

“We appreciate the strong partnership we share with the United States Attorney’s Office and the federal agencies who work alongside us to keep dangerous offenders off our streets,” said Sheriff Eric Aden. “I am especially proud of the diligent efforts of our Multi-Agency Drug Task Force, whose professionalism and commitment were instrumental in this case. Removing illegally possessed firearms from the hands of convicted felons is critical to protecting our citizens and preventing future violence.”

"This defendant was not just breaking the law—he was found in possession of multiple weapons and ammunition despite being legally barred from possessing a single firearm,” said Special Agent in Charge of DEA Miami Field Division Deanne Reuter. “That kind of disregard puts communities and lives at risk. The DEA Miami Field Division - working alongside our local, state, and federal partners - will continue to target armed offenders and dismantle the networks that fuel violent crime, keeping our citizens safe."

The case involved a joint investigation by the Okaloosa County Sherriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey Tharp.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Luis Alberto Correa, 34, of Milton, Florida, was sentenced to a total of 42 months in federal prison after having pleaded guilty to possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon and to supervised release violations. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Keeping our communities safe means keeping firearms out of the hands of violent felons, like this defendant. Thanks to the coordinated efforts of our state and federal law enforcement partners, my office was able to deliver another successful prosecution of an offender who has amply demonstrated that he belongs behind bars rather than free on our streets to threaten our community.”

Court documents reflect that in 2016, the defendant was sentenced to 170 months in federal prison following convictions for drug conspiracy and causing the death of a person through use of a firearm. Following that prison sentence, and while on supervised release under the supervision of the United States Probation Office, in approximately December 2024, the defendant was caught with three firearms and matching bulk ammunition that he had illegally obtained and possessed. He admitted to law enforcement that he knew he was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition due to his prior felony conviction. The defendant was also charged with, and later admitted to, violating the terms and conditions of his federal supervised release for illegally possessing firearms and ammunition, as well as marijuana.

“The Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office is grateful for the opportunity to assist in the investigation that led to the conviction and sentencing of Luis Alberto Correa as part of Operation Take Back America,” said Sheriff Bob Johnson. “This outcome reflects the strong cooperation among our local, state, and federal partners, all committed to removing felony offenders from our streets and keeping our community safe. We thank our agencies and citizens for their continued support as we work together to protect Santa Rosa County.”

Correa was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for the new possession of firearms and ammunition by a convicted felon charge and an additional 18 months to run consecutively for the supervise release violations.

The sentence was the result of investigations by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia Forbes.

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.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General. To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Jermaine Z. Lewis, 32, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to federal prison for 10 years for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl; possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and heroin; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office will continue to use the full force of the law to aggressively prosecute anyone who floods our streets with deadly drugs, as this defendant has come to find out. The Homeland Security Task Force initiative launched by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi is committed to eliminating drug trafficking operations anywhere they are found in the U.S., and the tenacious prosecutors in my office will see to it that the residents of the Northern District of Florida will have the safe, drug-free communities they deserve where they can live, work, and raise a family.”

Court documents reveal that in January and February 2025, the defendant distributed fentanyl on the streets of Pensacola.  Law enforcement intercepted a mailed parcel bound for the defendant that contained approximately four pounds of fentanyl pills. With this information, law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s residence in March 2025.  Two loaded firearms, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and fentanyl were seized. Wire transfers receipts of money sent to Mexico were also recovered. The defendant is a previously convicted state court felon.   

“This defendant wasn't just selling drugs—he was trafficking lethal fentanyl, stockpiling guns, and sending cartel money south. That ends today,” said DEA Miami Field Division Special Agent in Charge Deanne Reuter. “When you threaten the safety of Florida families, DEA and our law enforcement partners will meet you at your doorstep and bring your operation to a hard stop."

The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol.  The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton.

This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF comprises agents and officers from multiple agencies with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida.

The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is one of 94 offices that serve as the nation’s principal litigators under the direction of the Attorney General.  To access public court documents online, please visit the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida website. For more information about the United States Attorney’s Office, Northern District of Florida, visit http://www.justice.gov/usao/fln/index.html.