Northern District of Florida

Pensacola, Florida – Joshua Dean Hardy, 27, of Century, Florida, was sentenced to four years in federal prison for two counts of possession of an unregistered National Firearms Act weapon without a serial number and one count of possession of a firearm with an obliterated serial number.  The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I deeply appreciate the outstanding investigative work of the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners, which led to this successful prosecution and federal prison sentence.  We will continue to deliver justice under Operation Take Back America to fulfill the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche that we will stop at nothing to secure the safety of our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.”

Court records reflect that during the early morning hours on July 23, 2025, Hardy shot himself in the leg while patrolling his property in Century, Florida. At the time of the shooting, Hardy was already under investigation for possession of an unregistered silencer located during a November 2023 traffic stop. A search of Hardy’s residence uncovered an additional unregistered silencer, homemade explosives, and a firearm with the serial number removed.  

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal 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 – Justin Luis Ruiz, 21, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of production of child pornography, one count of receipt of child pornography, two counts of distribution of child pornography, and one count of possession 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: “This case exemplified the threats our kids face online from sexual predators, like this defendant, who seek to sexually exploit and victimize them. Parents must be made aware of these emergent threats to their children, so that they can closely monitor their kids’ access to and use of online platforms to keep them safe. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute these predators for their disgusting crimes as we do our part to keep our kids safe online.”

Court documents reflect that a 2024 investigation by the Rapid City (South Dakota) Police Department uncovered that Ruiz had solicited a minor to send him nude photographs depicting child pornography. Further investigation, including law enforcement’s search of a Tallahassee residence, identified Ruiz communicated online with known and unknown persons, many of them apparently minors, and exchanged child pornography with those individuals.

Ruiz faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment and up to 30 years’ imprisonment for production of child pornography, a mandatory minimum term of 5 years’ imprisonment and up to 20 years’ imprisonment for each count of receipt and distribution of child pornography, and up to 20 years’ imprisonment for possession of child pornography. Upon release from prison, he will serve a minimum mandatory term of 5 years on supervised release, and up to a lifetime of supervision.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 15, 2026, at 10:00 am, at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Tallahassee Police Department and the Rapid City Police Department. The case is being 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 for the Northern District of Florida, visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida – Tedrick Childs, 46, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for one count of distribution of cocaine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

Childs appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for May 5, 2026 at 8:30 am, before Chief District Judge Allen C. Winsor in Tallahassee, Florida.

Childs faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment on the distribution of cocaine count and not less than 15 years’ imprisonment, and up to Life imprisonment, on the distribution of methamphetamine count.

The case is being investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.

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 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 – Daniel Reginald Hanna, II, 38, of Gainesville, Florida, was sentenced to twelve and a half years in federal prison on charges related to receipt and possession of child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “The possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material are heinous crimes that have the effect of re-victimizing the innocent children who were sexually exploited every time the horrific images and videos of their abuse are shared. This sentence reflects the gravity of these crimes, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute predators like this defendant to ensure we achieve justice for the victims of child sexual abuse and, ultimately, prevent future victimization from occurring.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant maintained a significant and disturbing collection of child pornography. While executing a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in March 2025, law enforcement located numerous electronic devices that contained child sex abuse material, including 163 videos in a folder entitled “Kids,” and over 2,500 images of child pornography on two cell phones.

Following his release from prison, Hanna will be on supervised release for 12 years and is required to register as a sex offender.

“Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that crimes involving the exploitation of children will be met with unwavering accountability,” said Chief Moya, Gainesville Police Department. “I want to commend the investigators, prosecutors, and partnering agencies whose dedication and persistence ensured that this individual was brought to justice. Protecting children remains one of our highest priorities. We will continue to use every resource available to identify offenders, support victims, and prevent these crimes from occurring.”

The case involved a joint investigation by the Gainesville Police Department’s Internet Crimes Against Children Unit and Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.

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 – Amani Lawrence, 27, of Panama City Beach, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging him with attempted enticement of a minor. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.

Lawrence appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Charles A. Stampelos in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for May 26, 2026, before District Judge Mark E. Walker.

If convicted, Lawrence faces 10 years’ imprisonment up to life imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Panama City Beach Police Department. 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.

Pensacola, Florida – Sidney Marc Wilson, Jr., 48, of Niceville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to Conspiracy to Commit Wire and Mail Fraud; Mail Fraud; Wire Fraud; Money Laundering; and Subscribing to Materially False Tax Returns. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

The Department of Justice has created the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars.  Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Fraudsters like this defendant seek to enrich themselves by stealing the hard-earned monies of their unsuspecting victims. Our excellent federal law enforcement partners are hard at work to identify and dismantle those schemes, and my office stands ready to aggressively prosecute these crimes to hold scammers like this defendant fully accountable for the harm they have caused to those victims.”

Court documents reflect that between 2018 – 2022, the defendant operated an online scheme falsely promising victims returns on investments into his purported sales affiliate programs. Victims invested anywhere between $3,000 - $21,000 to be a part of what the defendant claimed would be a way for the victims to make significant amounts of money. However, after the victims mailed or wired the defendant their investments, he simply kept the money for himself or distributed it to his conspirators. The victims did not receive a return on their purported investments, and he evaded calls from the victims when they attempted to confront him about their investments. Through this scheme, the defendant fraudulently obtained millions of dollars from the victims, a portion of which he laundered through real property and cryptocurrency transactions. In addition, the defendant filed false federal income tax returns significantly understating his income for multiple years.

Wilson faces up to twenty years’ imprisonment on each of the fraud counts, up to ten years’ imprisonment on each of the money laundering counts, and up to three years’ imprisonment on each the tax crime counts. Wilson also faces the payment of restitution back to the victims. 

The case is being jointly investigated by the Internal Revenue Service-Criminal Investigation and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney David L. Goldberg.

Sentencing is scheduled for July 20, 2026, at 10:30 am at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

If you believe you have been a victim of fraudulent behavior committed by Sidney Marc Wilson, Jr., please email the Federal Bureau of Investigation at [email protected].

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 – Howard Neil Martin, 46, of Sopchoppy, Florida, was sentenced to seven and a half years in federal prison for possession with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking offense, 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: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work by our state and federal law enforcement partners, and the aggressive prosecution of this repeat offender by my office, our community can rest assured he will spend several years in prison for his armed drug dealing. Keeping our streets safe and drug-free remains a top priority for my office, and we will continue to deliver successful prosecutions under the Department of Justices Operation Take Back America initiative.”

Court documents reflect that Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a report about a burglary in progress. When they arrived, the defendant was parked in the driveway of the residence and in a verbal dispute with someone watching the residence for the homeowner. Officers could see a firearm in plain view inside the defendant’s truck and upon running his criminal history, learned that he was a convicted felon. Officers ultimately searched the truck and located approximately half a pound of crystal methamphetamine.

“This joint investigation removes another methamphetamine trafficker from our North Florida communities,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “I’m thankful to our law enforcement partners for their support in bringing this criminal to justice.”

Sheriff Jared F. Miller, Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office said: “Cases like this highlight the ongoing threat illegal drugs and firearms pose to our community. I’m proud of our deputies for their quick response and strong partnership with our federal agencies to ensure dangerous offenders are held accountable.”

When the defendant is released from prison, he will be on supervised release for a period of five years.

The case involved an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Wakulla County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from 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.

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 – Noe Zamudio Hernandez, 43, of Mexico, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison after pleading guilty in federal court to attempted enticement of a minor and illegal reentry of a previously removed alien. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “As this case demonstrated, securing our border and vigorously enforcing our immigration laws is not just a matter of national security, it is also of vital importance to keeping our communities and children safe from dangerous sexual predators, like this defendant. The Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America was launched by President Donald J. Trump and Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche with this kind of case in mind, and we remain committed to devoting the full might of our office toward aggressively prosecuting dangerous criminal illegal aliens to keep our citizens and communities safe.”

According to court records, the defendant came under investigation in 2024 during a law enforcement operation in Panama City, Florida, 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. The defendant was previously removed from the United States after committing a sexual offense against a minor.

“This case highlights the strength of our partnership with Homeland Security Investigations and the United States Attorney’s Office. Together, we identified and apprehended a dangerous criminal illegal alien who was targeting children in our community,” said Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford. “When individuals enter this country unlawfully and commit serious crimes, especially against children, we will work with our federal partners to ensure they are arrested and held fully accountable”

“Those who repeatedly violate our immigration laws and prey on vulnerable children will face the full force of federal prosecution, period,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “HSI, together with our law enforcement partners, will continue to prioritize the protection of children and the integrity of our borders. We will not tolerate those who endanger our communities by disregarding our laws."

Deportation proceedings against him will commence following the conclusion of serving his federal sentence.

The case involved a joint investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. 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.

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.

Gainesville, Florida – Robert Anthony Yancy, Jr., 25, of Gainesville, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for possession of firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge.

Yancy appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry in Gainesville, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for May 27, 2026, at 8:30 a.m. before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor in Gainesville, Florida.

Yancy faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment if convicted.

The case is being jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.

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 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, 36, pleaded guilty in federal court to two counts of possession 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: “My office will continue to prioritize the aggressive prosecution of predators, like this defendant, who seek to sexually exploit and victimize our kids. Viewing and distributing child porn has the effect of re-victimizing the innocent kids who have been sexually exploited each and every time one of those horrific images or videos is shared. My office will hold accountable those who peddle child porn to the greatest extent possible.”

Court documents reflect that the Tallahassee Police Department Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force received information that the defendant was possessing and viewing child pornography. Further investigation led to the execution of a search warrant at the defendant’s residence and a search of his cell phone, which revealed that he had also used an overseas server to access and store child pornography.

Campbell faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on each count, and a lifetime of supervision upon release.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 11, 2026, at 10:00 am, at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida before United States District Court Judge Robert L. Hinkle.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Tallahassee Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph Ravelo and Meredith Steer are prosecuting the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Gainesville, Florida – Arthur Gabriel Young, 23, of Miramar, Florida, has been federally charged with six counts of sexual exploitation of children producing child pornography, one count of receipt of child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

Young appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry in Gainesville, Florida. His jury trial is scheduled for May 27, 2026, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.

If convicted, Young faces a minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment, and up to 30 years’ imprisonment, on the production of child pornography counts. Young also faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the receipt and possession counts.

The case was jointly investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Gainesville Police Department, and the Westminster Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Ernest Lee Thomas II, 35, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to 37 months in federal prison for 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: “With yet another successful prosecution under the Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America, we are fulfilling the promise made by President Donald J. Trump that we will stop at nothing to keep our citizens safe and dangerous, armed felons like this defendant locked away in prison. Sheriff Chip Simmons and his deputies continue to set the standard for investigative excellence in law enforcement, and my office will back up their hard work with aggressive prosecutions to keep our community safe.”

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida – Chandler Brittain Smith, 27, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on one count of distribution of attempted enticement of a minor and one count of attempted transfer of obscene material to minors. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

Smith appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for May 26, 2026, before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker.

If convicted, Smith faces a minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment on the attempted enticement count. Smith also faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the attempted transfer of obscene materials count.

The case is being jointly investigated by the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Tallahassee Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida – Michael R. Foster, 49, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, was indicted by a federal grand jury charging him with one count of attempted enticement of a minor. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.

Foster appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for August 24, 2026, before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker.

If convicted, Foster faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the Federal Bureau of Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Eric W. Welch 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 – David Carlton Lee, 59, of Panama City Beach, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on one count of transportation of child pornography, one count of possession/access with intent to view child pornography, and one count of possession of child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

Lee appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for July 27, 2026 at 8:30 in Tallahassee, Florida before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker.

If convicted, Lee faces a minimum 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to 20 years imprisonment, on the transportation count; and up to 20 years’ imprisonment on each of the possession counts.

The case is being jointly investigated by the US Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations and the Panama City Beach 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida  – Michael Scott Hillwig, 59, of Camden, New Jersey, was sentenced to more than two years in federal prison for bank fraud, aggravated identity theft, and false use or forgery of a passport. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said, “It is of vital importance to raise awareness about the vulnerability of our personal identifying information online, which fraudsters relentlessly pursue as they seek to enrich themselves by exploiting their victims. As this defendant has learned, my office is just as relentless in our pursuit of criminals like him, and we aggressively prosecute such frauds to the fullest extent to achieve justice for the victims of these crimes.”

Court documents reflect that in May 2023, the defendant unlawfully obtained personal identification information of other people, including their names, dates of birth, social security numbers, and passport card numbers. He then fraudulently withdrew funds from the bank accounts of multiple victims by presenting U.S. passport cards bearing his photograph, but with the personal identifying information of the victims. During the course of this fraud scheme, Hillwig travelled to financial institutions in South Carolina and throughout Florida, including in Bonifay, Niceville, and Winter Garden, where he would provide bank tellers with a victim’s social security number and the fraudulent U.S. passport card in order to make withdrawals from their bank accounts.

“This case demonstrates how criminals exploit U.S. passports to victimize innocent Americans,” said Ryan McSeveney, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service (DSS) Miami Field Office. “Working with the Okaloosa County Sheriff's Office, Holmes County Sheriff's Office, and our federal partners, DSS remains committed to protecting the integrity of U.S. travel documents and bringing to justice those who use them for identity theft and financial fraud.”

Hillwig’s term of imprisonment will be followed by 3 years of supervised release. Hillwig was also ordered to pay restitution to his victims.

The case involved a joint investigation by U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, and Holmes County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

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 – Laquinton Montral Harris, 36, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been charged by federal criminal complaint with one count of Hobbs Act robbery; carrying, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence; and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The charges were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

Court documents reflect that on January 31, 2026, Leon County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to a reported robbery at Z-Mart located on Fred George Road in Tallahassee. Surveillance footage captured an armed individual dressed entirely in black clothing and face covering enter the store. The individual approached a store employee and demanded money. When the employee responded he had nothing immediately on hand, the suspect fired one round from his firearm into the floor. The employee removed the cash register drawer and handed it to the suspect who then left the store. Law enforcement conducted a detailed investigation which led them to Laquinton Harris, who has prior felony conviction, as the main suspect. A federal search warrant was executed at Harris’ residence. A firearm and clothing consistent with items seen on the store surveillance footage were located.

Harris appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida.

If convicted, Harris faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the robbery count; at least 10 years, which must be consecutive to any other sentence, on the carrying, brandishing, and discharging a firearm during a crime of violence count; and up to 15 years’ imprisonment on the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon count.

The case involves an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being 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.

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 – Ramon Velazquez Rodas, 46, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for charges relating to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, and possession of a stolen 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 successful prosecution and substantial prison sentence is yet another win for the citizens of the Northern District of Florida, as my office continues to aggressively prosecute these cases to deliver the safe, drug-free streets they deserve. We have more work to do, and thanks to the support of President Donald J. Trump through Operation Take Back America, we will continue to deploy the full power of the Department of Justice to dismantle the drug trafficking rings that have funneled deadly drugs into our communities for far too long.”

Court documents reflect that on August 11, 2022, as part of an ongoing drug investigation targeting multiple individuals, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at a suspected drug house where the defendant was found in Tallahassee, Florida. Pursuant to the search warrant, officers located methamphetamine and fentanyl, a stolen handgun, $2,900 in currency, and other items indicative of drug distribution. The defendant is legally barred from possessing firearms as a multi-time convicted felon, including prior convictions for burglary of a dwelling, burglary of an unoccupied dwelling, possession of burglary tools, dealing in stolen property, and possession of controlled substances.

“It’s been a busy few weeks as DEA and its law enforcement partners have brought numerous North Florida drug traffickers to justice,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Drug Enforcement Administration Tampa Field Division. “DEA will pursue, investigate, and arrest all who poison its communities.”

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.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida – Jacqueline Wallace, 53, a Jamaican national, pleaded guilty in federal court to voting by an alien. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Protecting the integrity of our elections not negotiable. Registering to vote and casting a ballot in our elections are actions that we must ensure are taken only by eligible U.S. citizens.  My office will aggressively prosecute cases like this to preserve the security of our elections.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant – a Jamaican national who had not been naturalized as a United States citizen – requested a mail-in ballot in July 2024, which was mailed to her address. The defendant then completed her ballot and submitted it by U.S. mail. Wallace’s handwritten name and address appeared on the front of her ballot envelope, and her signature, personal information, and date appeared on the back. The defendant’s ballot was received on August 12, 2024, and her vote in the Presidential Primary election was registered and cast on August 20, 2024. At the time she submitted her ballot, the defendant knew she was not a United States citizen.

The case was investigated by U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Eric W. Welch is prosecuting the case.

Wallace’s sentencing is scheduled for June 11, 2026, at 11:00 am at the United States District Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark 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.

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 – Orinthian Frazier, 46, of Panama City, Florida, was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment for unlawfully possessing firearms as 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: “Operation Take Back America continues to secure victories for the safety of our communities by targeting and aggressively prosecuting dangerous criminals, like this defendant. The safety of our citizens is non-negotiable, and my office will continue to back up the hard work of our state and federal law enforcement partners with successful prosecutions and federal prison sentences.”

Court documents reflect that in March 2025, Bay County Sheriff’s Office investigators received information that the defendant – a prior felon with convictions for sale of cocaine, sale of heroin, grand theft, and burglary – was selling illegal firearms. In an undercover capacity, investigators negotiated and then conducted the purchase of three handguns from the defendant. The defendant was arrested immediately after the undercover firearm sale and was found in possession of marked currency used for the purchase.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K Mountin.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Charles Carson-Dowdy, 31, of Mobile, Alabama, pleaded guilty in federal court for cyberstalking, interstate domestic violence, murder through use of a firearm, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon in relation to the death of Starmichael L. Tucker in Pensacola in early-2025. 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 our state and federal law enforcement partners, and the aggressive prosecution by my office, this offender will be held accountable for the anguish he has inflicted on the victim’s family through his vicious, deadly, and cowardly violence that stole an innocent life. This case underscores the deadly threats posed by dating and domestic violence, and it is more important than ever to obtain justice for the victims, like Ms. Tucker, to ensure this can never happen again.”

Court documents reveal that Carson-Dowdy, who resided in Mobile, Alabama, and the victim, Ms. Tucker, who resided in Pensacola, Florida, began dating in or about October 2024. During the dating relationship, Carson-Dowdy used cellular telephones, the internet, and a ridesharing business to engage in a course of conduct with the intent to harass and intimidate the victim. At the end of December 2024, Ms. Tucker flew to California to visit family for the holidays. During her trip, Ms. Tucker and Carson-Dowdy had a series of escalating arguments via text message.   

On January 1, 2025, as Ms. Tucker traveled back to Florida from California, she and Carson- Dowdy had a conversation via text message during which the victim attempted to end the relationship with Carson-Dowdy.  In response, Carson-Dowdy, who was at his residence in Mobile, Alabama, used his cellular phone to hail a ride via the Uber ridesharing service and traveled to the victim’s residence in Pensacola, Florida, to confront her. Carson-Dowdy brought a Taurus handgun and an extra loaded magazine with him as he traveled from Alabama to Florida.

Carson-Dowdy entered Ms. Tucker’s home without her permission. She returned home to  Carson-Dowdy waiting for her in the apartment. At approximately 8:00 pm on January 2, 2025, Carson-Dowdy followed Ms. Tucker as she left her apartment and he fired an initial volley of approximately four shots at her using his handgun. The victim was struck from behind by the bullets and collapsed in the apartment parking lot. Carson-Dowdy walked over to Ms. Tucker, who was lying on the ground, and shot her approximately ten more times.  Carson-Dowdy then entered the victim’s vehicle parked nearby, and deliberately ran over Ms. Tucker with the car, reversing the vehicle over her body, and then driving forward, running over her again. Carson-Dowdy then fled from the scene in the victim’s vehicle. Ms. Tucker died from the injuries inflicted by Carson-Dowdy.   

Carson-Dowdy was ultimately located by law enforcement in the victim’s vehicle in Spanish Fort, Alabama. He was taken into custody, and the Taurus handgun used to murder the victim was found inside the car.

Carson-Dowdy faces up to life imprisonment at his sentencing, which is scheduled for August 25, 2026, at 9:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.  

The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the State Attorney’s Office for the First Judicial Circuit, and the Spanish Fort Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg, Kaitlin Weiss, and Jordane New.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Isaiah Markeis Sims, 23, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to 27 months’ in federal prison following his previous guilty plea to possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The term of imprisonment will be followed by three years on federal supervised release. 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 on the front lines of the fight against dangerous criminals in our communities, and my office stands ready to back them up with successful prosecutions like this one to keep our streets safe. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi launched Operation Take Back America to deploy the full might of the Department of Justice toward eliminating the threats to our communities posed by dangerous criminals, and my office is committed to ensuring we are successful in that effort.”

Court documents reflect that in August 2025, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in which the defendant was a passenger. After detecting the odor of marijuana in the vehicle, law enforcement asked the occupants to step out of the vehicle. Upon exiting the vehicle, the defendant fled on foot and deputies gave chase, catching him when he later fell to the ground.  After detaining him, deputies found a loaded Glock handgun that the defendant had dropped next to him on the ground. The defendant is a convicted felon.

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

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 – Jerry Thomas McCarigie, 49, of Panama City Beach, was sentenced to over six years in federal prison after a jury previously found him guilty of possession with intent to distribute 5 grams or more of methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Eliminating the scourge of methamphetamine in our communities requires close collaboration between our state and federal law enforcement partners and aggressive prosecutions to send the peddlers of this deadly poison to prison. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi launched Operation Take Back America to devote the full might of the Department of Justice toward dismantling and eradicating drug trafficking networks that have invaded our communities, and my office will continue to deliver successful prosecutions like this one to deliver on the promise that our citizens deserve safe, drug-free streets.”

Evidence and testimony admitted at trial established that on November 15, 2023, the Bay County Sheriff's Office’s Special Investigations Division conducted a drug trafficking investigation at a motel located in Panama City Beach. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s motel room. During the execution of the warrant, the defendant was detained and law enforcement located fentanyl, multiple baggies containing more than 48 grams of methamphetamine, and a digital scale in the defendant’s pockets.

“We continue to have success targeting criminals in the Panhandle region,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Drug Enforcement Administration Tampa Field Division. “We will not rest until they are brought to justice.”

After serving his term of imprisonment, McCarigie will have to serve 4 years on supervised release.

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. 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.

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 – James Wiley Kelley, Jr., 51, of Altha, Florida, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for possession of an unregistered National Firearms Act weapon, possession of a machinegun, and 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: “Operation Take Back America is not just a powerful initiative that deploys the full might of the Department of Justice toward targeting dangerous criminals, it is a long-overdue recognition that our citizens deserve safe streets and crime-free communities. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi promised to Take Back America from the perpetrators of violent crime who have plagued our streets, neighborhoods, and communities, and my office will continue to fulfill that promise with every successful prosecution we deliver.”

Court documents reflect that United States Customs Border Protection Agents identified a parcel bearing a fictitious name and an Altha, Florida, address while inspecting packages from a flight originating in China. Examination of the parcel revealed a small box purporting to be plastic vent mounts for a smart phone but contained three metal component parts comprising a machinegun conversion device (MCD), which enable a semi-automatic firearm to be converted into a fully automatic weapon. Following a controlled delivery of the MCD, agents executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence, resulting in the seizure of pistols, rifles, shotguns and ammunition of various calibers, as well as methamphetamine. The defendant was prohibited from possessing a firearm and ammunition due to prior felony convictions for fleeing or attempting to elude a marked police car and possession of a controlled substance.

The case involved a joint investigation by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Calhoun County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Jason R. Coody prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Austin James McCastler II, 36, was sentenced on two counts of distribution of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and marijuana, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, attempted prevention of the government’s authority to take property during an authorized search and seizure, assault with a deadly weapon of a Special Agent of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and discharging a firearm during a violent crime. John Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the sentencing today.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case exemplified the extreme dangers faced by the brave men and women of law enforcement who put their lives on the line every day to keep our communities safe from violent criminals. I am incredibly proud of the outstanding trial work by the talented prosecutors in my office that resulted in this successful outcome. Let me be clear: anyone who threatens, shoots at, or in any way harms a law enforcement officer in the Northern District of Florida will face the full might of the Department of Justice.”

McCastler was sentenced after being found guilty in a jury trial. Trial testimony and court documents revealed that, after undercover law enforcement purchased methamphetamine from McCastler’s Pensacola residence on two occasions, a warrant was obtained to search for and seize illicit narcotics from his home. On March 7, 2025, law enforcement attempted to execute the lawful warrant, but McCastler refused to comply with commands to surrender, instead arming and barricading himself in the home. As law enforcement surrounded the residence, McCastler opened fire with a semi-automatic rifle, including shooting at a DEA Special Agent. McCastler then fled from the residence in his vehicle, leading to a high-speed chase that ended after an Escambia County Sheriff’s Deputy executed a PIT maneuver to immobilize McCastler’s vehicle. McCastler then tried to flee on foot, but law enforcement captured him. A search of his residence led to the recovery of a loaded semi-automatic rifle and two spent casings from the shots fired by McCastler, a second firearm, dozens of rounds of ammunition, fentanyl, and marijuana.

“Most investigations happen without incident,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, DEA Tampa Field Division. “However, times like this reinforce how dangerous this career can be. I’m thankful no one was injured.”

“If you fire at law enforcement, we will use every tool and partnership to bring you to justice,” said Tampa Field Division’s Special Agent in Charge Kirk Howard. “This incident could easily have ended in tragedy for law enforcement or innocent bystanders, but this sentencing will ensure this suspect is no longer a danger to our community.”

Escambia County Sheriff Simmons said: “Austin James McCastler II chose violence over compliance when law enforcement came to execute a lawful search warrant at his home. His decision to open fire on officers, including taking a shot at a DEA Special Agent, endangered the lives of brave men and women who were simply doing their jobs to remove dangerous drugs from our community. Thanks to the professionalism and courage of the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office deputies involved in the pursuit and apprehension, along with our federal and local partners, this violent offender is now facing serious consequences. We remain committed to working together to protect Escambia County families from drug traffickers and those who arm themselves against law enforcement.”

“This sentence reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed and the danger posed to our community and law enforcement,” said Sheriff Johnson, Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. “When an individual chooses to traffic deadly drugs and use violence against officers, there must be strong consequences. I commend the courage and professionalism of all deputies and partner agencies involved in bringing this case to justice.”

The case was jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the Pensacola Police Department, the State Attorney’s Office for the First Judicial Circuit, and the Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys David L. Goldberg and Jessica S. Etherton prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Darrion K. Finley, 22, of Pensacola, Florida, has been sentenced in federal court on charges related to a shooting incident in late 2024. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the sentencing.

The Indictment charged Finley with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, attempting to kill an Escambia County Sheriff’s Deputy to prevent certain communications, and discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case shows the deadly threats our brave men and women in law enforcement face every day as they fight to remove violent criminals from our communities. My office remains firmly committed to aggressively prosecuting those violent offenders, and we will stand shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners in the fight to keep our streets safe. Let me be clear: anyone who threatens, shoots at, or in any way harms a law enforcement officer in the Northern District of Florida will face the full might of the Department of Justice.”

Court documents reveal that on December 17, 2024, the defendant was driving in Pensacola in a stolen vehicle. When the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office attempted to conduct a traffic stop of the defendant, he accelerated and law enforcement began its vehicle pursuit. One of the pursuing deputies executed a PIT maneuver to immobilize Finley’s vehicle, after which Finley fired a 9-millimeter pistol at the Deputy’s vehicle, striking the passenger side door of the patrol vehicle. As the Deputy and his K9 approached the defendant’s vehicle, Finley exited the car armed with the pistol, and began pointing it at the officer.  The Deputy released his K9, which lunged at Finley and prevented him from firing the pistol, after which Finley attempted to flee on foot but was immobilized and detained. Upon recovering Finley’s handgun, it was discovered that a live round had lodged in the ejection port, indicating the defendant had tried to fire the weapon a second time at the Deputy but it malfunctioned.

“Darrion Finley’s brazen attempt to murder one of our deputies during a routine traffic stop highlights the extreme dangers our officers face every single day,” said Escambia County Sheriff Simmons. “Thanks to the quick thinking and bravery of our deputy and his K9 partner, a dangerous felon is now off our streets for decades. We will continue working shoulder-to-shoulder with our federal partners to hold violent criminals accountable and keep Escambia County safe.”

“Escambia County residents are better off with this violent man behind bars,” said Tampa Field Division’s Special Agent in Change Kirk Howard. “The suspect shot at law enforcement with complete disregard for the community and this sentencing sends a clear message that acts of violence against law enforcement and our community will not be tolerated.”

The case was jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, the State Attorney’s Office for the First Judicial Circuit, and the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The case was 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.

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 – Michael Ray Pennington, 60, of Panama City, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for Attempted Enticement of a Minor. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charge.

Pennington appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Charles Stampelos in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for May 26, 2026, before District Court Judge Mark Walker.

If convicted, Pennington faces a minimum 10 years’ imprisonment, and up to Life imprisonment.

The case is being jointly investigated by the 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 Justin M. Keen.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida – Edward Lee Cromartie, 45, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison following his conviction on charges relating to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, distribution of cocaine and methamphetamine, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, this local drug trafficking operation has been dismantled.  This substantial prison sentence ensures our community will be safe from this dangerous criminal for many years to come. Our citizens deserve safe, drug-free streets, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute those who threaten the health and safety of our communities until we send every last peddler of this deadly poison to federal prison.”

Court documents reflect that in July 2025, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and Leon County Sheriff’s Office received information regarding the trafficking of cocaine in Leon County. During the investigation, agents conducted undercover drug purchases from Cromartie and his co-defendants, leading to the recovery of more than 167 grams of methamphetamine. Agents also identified a suspected drug stash location for the conspirators and, upon execution of a federal search warrant at a storage unit connected to Cromartie, seized approximately 1.6 kilograms of methamphetamine, along with multiple firearms, including a stolen .45 caliber handgun.

“The Panhandle of Florida has been on DEA’s radar for quite some time regarding cocaine and, in particular, methamphetamine trafficking,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, DEA Tampa Field Division. “We have made significant arrests and dismantled drug trafficking organizations throughout this region and will continue to do so.”

The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Gainesville, Florida – Dean Allen Harper, 55, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of an unmarked and unregistered silencer, which qualifies as a firearm under federal law. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I deeply appreciate the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners to remove dangerous, armed criminals from our streets.  My office will continue to back up their hard work on the front lines with aggressive prosecutions under the Department of Justice’s Operation Take Back America initiative to keep our communities safe from violent criminals.”

Court documents reflect that on November 21, 2025, law enforcement conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle Harper was driving. The vehicle that contained numerous firearms, ammunition, methamphetamine, and drug paraphernalia. In total, Harper was in possession of two rifles, two pistols, multiple magazines, and numerous rounds of ammunition, including armor-piercing ammunition. One of the pistols also had an automotive oil filter converted into a homemade suppressor/silencer attached to its barrel:

The threaded barrel had an aftermarket attachment which allowed the oil filter to be attached. The homemade silencer did not have a serial number and was not registered in the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record.

At sentencing, the defendant faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $10,000 fine. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 9:00 a.m., at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

The case involved an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Gainesville, Florida – Robinson Abrahan Esparragoza Regalado, 26, a Venezuelan national, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession of a firearm and ammunition by an alien illegally or unlawfully in the United States. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the plea. 

United States Attorney Heekin said: “Operation Take Back America was launched by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to devote the full might of the Department of Justice toward removing dangerous criminal illegal aliens from our communities. This successful prosecution delivers on that goal, and we will continue aggressively prosecuting dangerous aliens like this defendant to ensure our citizens have the safe streets they deserve.”

Court documents reflect that on November 25, 2025, Esparragoza Regalado was in possession of a 9mm pistol equipped with a 33-round extended magazine, which was almost fully loaded with ammunition. The firearm was located during a traffic stop on Interstate 75. Esparragoza Regalado is illegally present in the United States, and was therefore prohibited from possessing any firearm or ammunition.

Esparragoza Regalado faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment, three years of supervised release, and a $250,000 fine. Esparragoza Regalado is also likely to be deported at the conclusion of serving his sentence. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. in Gainesville, Florida before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Gainesville, Florida – Xin Liu, 40, a Chinese national living in Apopka, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to conspiracy to commit wire fraud. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the guilty plea today.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Elder fraud is a devastating crime that is growing increasingly common, as fraudsters like this alien and her China-based co-conspirators prey upon our vulnerable retiree population to enrich themselves. Stopping elder fraud depends upon educating the public about schemes like this, and encouraging victims to report these crimes to law enforcement as quickly as possible. My office will continue to investigate and aggressively prosecute every member of these fraud schemes to hold them accountable for their heinous crimes and achieve justice for their victims.”

Court records show that while Liu was in the United States pursuant to an H-1B visa, she conspired with a person from the northern region of China and others to defraud elderly victims by using fraudulent telephone calls and electronic messages. Liu’s role in the conspiracy was to pick up packages of cash and deliver them to other conspirators. Between July 22, 2025, and July 30, 2025, on at least six separate occasions, Liu drove to various locations throughout Florida and picked up or attempted to pick up more than $95,000 from the victims. One of the victims lived in an assisted living apartment complex for seniors in Gainesville, Florida. Liu personally verified the contents of each package and was paid with a portion of the fraud proceeds. Liu’s actions resulted in substantial financial hardship to at least one victim.

Liu faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment and is expected to be transferred for deportation proceedings at the conclusion of her sentence. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville, Florida before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

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

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 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.

Gainesville, Florida – DeShawn Russ, 35, of Jacksonville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court yesterday to prohibited person in possession of ammunition. 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 outstanding investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, this dangerous serial felon has been taken off our streets and he will face an extended federal prison sentence. This successful prosecution by my office is yet another win for the safety of our communities under Operation Take Back America, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases to deliver the safe streets our citizens deserve.”

Court documents reflect that the Gainesville Police Department responded to a shooting within a vehicle where officers found a bullet hole in the driver’s window.  Russ, who was known to the driver, was located nearby.  Although no firearm was recovered, a .380 bullet was located in his pocket. Russ is multi-time convicted felon, and is therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.

The defendant faces imprisonment for up to 15 years at sentencing. Sentencing is scheduled for June 16, 2026, at 1:00 p.m., at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

The case involved an investigation 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.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Donny Bernard Ross, 49, Elizabeth Ann Rogers, 39, and Vontavius Jamaal Bradley, 23, all of Pensacola, Florida, were indicted by a federal grand jury charging them with conspiracy to commit bank fraud, use of a false passport, and aggravated identity theft. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges today.

All three defendants appeared for their arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho on March 18, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for May 4, 2026, before United States District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

If convicted, each defendant faces up to 30 years’ imprisonment on the conspiracy to commit bank fraud count; up to 10 years’ imprisonment on the use of a false passport count; and a mandatory two years’ imprisonment consecutive to any other sentence on the aggravated identity theft count.

The case was a joint investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, and U.S. Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

PENSACOLA, FLORIDA – Henry A. Glenn, 47, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine over 500 grams of mixture, three counts of distribution of methamphetamine over 50 grams of mixture, and two counts of distribution of methamphetamine. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

Glenn appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho in Pensacola, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for May 4, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. before District Court Judge M. Casey Rodgers in Pensacola, Florida.

If convicted as charged, Glenn faces up to life imprisonment.

The case is being jointly investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Walton County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson.

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 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, was sentenced to seven years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute marijuana, and unlawful possession of firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes. The term of imprisonment will be followed by eight years on federal supervised release, and Culpepper was also ordered to forfeit property and U.S. currency connected to the drug trafficking activity.  The sentence 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.

“THC vape devices containing Schedule 1 Controlled Substances are a real concern and DEA is treating them as such,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division.

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 was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.

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 – Edward G. Winn, 47, an inmate of the Florida Department of Corrections who is formerly of Sarasota, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of distribution of child pornography and one count of receipt 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: “My office will continue to aggressively prosecute the disgusting offenders who seek to sexually exploit kids online, and who peddle the horrific images and videos of child sexual abuse material that has the effect of re-victimizing those innocent victims each and every time it is shared.”

Court documents reflect that since September 2, 2015, the defendant had been incarcerated in the Florida Department of Corrections after being convicted of multiple counts of possession of child pornography. While the defendant was an inmate at Madison Correctional Institution, investigators discovered he used a prison-issued tablet to receive child pornography from the Internet which he also distributed to other inmates between May 6, 2024, and July 9, 2024. A search of the defendant’s tablet revealed that it contained almost 400 child pornography images, some of which depicted children as young as infants.

Winn faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years’ imprisonment and up to 40 years’ imprisonment on each count, and a lifetime of supervision upon release.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 1, 2026, at 3:00 pm, at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Florida Department of Corrections-Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen is prosecuting the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida – Etavious J. Milton, 26, of Tallahassee, was indicted by a federal grand jury and charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge today.

Milton appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for April 13, 2026, before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker.

If convicted, Milton faces up to fifteen years’ imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Tallahassee Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric W. Welch.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Scott Oranje, 52, of Mary Esther, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and 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: “Fentanyl has had an absolutely devastating impact on our communities for several years, which is why President Donald J. Trump recently designated the exceptionally deadly drug a Weapon of Mass Destruction. Identifying, targeting, and incapacitating the peddlers of this poison on our streets remains a top priority for my office. We will continue to deliver successful prosecutions like this one to fulfill the promise made by President Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi when they launched Operation Take Back America to devote the full might of the Department of Justice toward dismantling the drug trafficking operations that have plagued our communities for far too long.”

Court documents reflect that on November 10, 2025, law enforcement officers intercepted a package addressed to Oranje’s residence. The package contained over 300 grams of fentanyl. Law enforcement conducted a controlled delivery at Oranje’s residence. Oranje took possession of the package and entered his condominium. Shortly thereafter, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on the residence. Oranje did not answer the door requiring officers to breach the door. Following the breach of the front door, Oranje fled through the back patio, in possession of the fentanyl. Oranje was taken into custody. Law enforcement searched the residence and located a digital scale, various narcotics paraphernalia, owe sheets, and multiple firearms. Oranje had previously been convicted of First-Degree Residential Robbery and sentenced to state prison in California on or about July 30, 2018.

Oranje faces consecutive minimum mandatory sentences of five years’ imprisonment on Counts 1 and 2, for a total minimum mandatory sentence of ten years, and up to a maximum of life imprisonment. A term of imprisonment could be followed by up to a five-year term of supervised release. Thus, if Oranje were to violate any conditions of his release, he could potentially face an additional period of incarceration related to violating his supervision.        

The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, and the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Christopher C. Patterson is prosecuting the case.

Sentencing is scheduled for June 29, 2026, at 10:00 a.m. 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 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 – Joseph Edward Hudson, 38, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to ten years in federal prison for attempting to entice or persuade a minor to engage in sexual activity. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said, “Parents must be aware that sexual predators like this defendant have more ways than ever to prey upon our kids using internet and social media platforms to try to sexually exploit them. Fortunately, our state and federal law enforcement partners are relentless in their efforts to identify and stop those disgusting criminals before they can victimize our children, and it remains one of my office’s top priorities to aggressively prosecute these cases to keep these predators locked away in prison to ensure our kids are safe.”

Court documents reflect that between April 10, 2025, and April 12, 2025, detectives of the Tallahassee Police Department and other local law enforcement agencies, along with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, participated in a joint undercover operation in Tallahassee focused on identifying individuals using the Internet to sexually exploit children. During the operation, investigators identified the defendant, an adult male who was soliciting minors for sex through a social media platform. The defendant believed that he was going to be engaging in sexual activity with a 15-year-old girl when he drove to a meeting location where he was immediately arrested.

After serving his 10 years of imprisonment, Hudson will have to serve 15 years on supervised release and register as a sexual offender.

“Attempting to entice a minor to engage in sexual activity is a grave crime that threatens the safety and well-being of our children,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “This sentence reflects our unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable youth and holding offenders fully accountable. We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate and prosecute those who seek to exploit children online.”

The case involved a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the U. S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. The case was being 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.

Penscaola, Florida – Terrell Ta’Quez Parker, 27, of Milton, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance involving more than 40 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and cocaine; and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges.

Parker appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Zachary C. Bolitho for his initial appearance at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida. Trial is scheduled for April 20, 2026, in Pensacola before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

If convicted, Parker faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 5 years’ imprisonment and up to 40 years’ imprisonment on the possession with intent to distribute count; and up to 15 years’ imprisonment on the possession of a firearm by a convicted felon count.

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney 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 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Note: View order here.

Today, following a two-day trial in September 2025, the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Florida revoked the naturalization of Melchor Munoz, also known as Melchor Munoz-Correa, a native of Mexico who became a U.S. citizen in September 2009. The court held that, during his naturalization proceedings, Munoz concealed that he had previously engaged in a drug trade leading to his guilty plea in 2012 of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute five kilograms or more of cocaine and 100 kilograms or more of marijuana.

“This Administration has once again kept its promise to go after the worst of the worst” said Assistant Attorney General Brett A. Shumate. “The Department of Justice is proud to take citizenship back from a drug dealer who lied to become a U.S. citizen by concealing his criminal past.”

“United States citizenship is a valuable privilege that this individual obtained with lies and deceit about his past criminal activity,” said U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin for the Northern District of Florida. “Today’s judicial action to revoke that fraudulently obtained U.S. citizenship reinforces the commonsense position of this Administration that criminal activity will not be tolerated, and dangerous criminal aliens must be held accountable for violating our country’s laws.”

As admitted in his criminal proceedings, Munoz distributed to co-conspirators an average of 80 pounds of marijuana on approximately 60 separate occasions between 2008 and 2010, keeping 400 to 500 pounds of marijuana, gallon zip-lock bags of methamphetamine, and multiple blocks of cocaine on hand most of the time.

The sole issue at trial was whether Munoz’s drug activity predated his naturalization. At his guilty plea hearing in his criminal case and in an April 2013 proffer interview with federal agents, Munoz stated he began trafficking marijuana as early as in late 2008. Munoz argued in his denaturalization case that he was mistaken when he made those statements, and he testified at his denaturalization trial that he began drug trafficking only after his 2009 naturalization.

The court “found his testimony not credible,” and noted that throughout his testimony, “Munoz was evasive and did not answer questions directly.” Ultimately, the court held that “the government has proven by clear, unequivocal, and convincing evidence that Munoz engaged in drug trafficking in 2008, just as he stated under oath at his change-of-plea hearing.”

The court held that Munoz illegally procured his citizenship, and it revoked his certificate of naturalization. The court also ordered Munoz to surrender to the government his certificate of naturalization, any and all U.S. passports, and any other indicia of United States citizenship, and it ordered that he is “forever restrained and enjoined from claiming any rights, privileges, benefits, or advantages under any document which evidences United States citizenship obtained as a result of his September 8, 2009 naturalization.”

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s (ICE) Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) investigated the case.

The Affirmative Litigation Unit of the Civil Division’s Office of Immigration Litigation litigated the case with substantial assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida.

Gainesville, Florida – Reginald Duante Davis, 35, and Kelvin Quentin Scott Wright, 32, of Gainesville, Florida, have each been indicted in federal court for possession of a firearm and ammunition by convicted felons. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charge.

Davis appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Wright appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Midori A. Lowry in Gainesville, Florida.  Jury trial is scheduled for April 8, 2026, at 8:30 am before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor in Gainesville, Florida.

Davis and Wright each face up to 15 years’ imprisonment if convicted.

The case is being jointly investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office.  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 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 – Kendrick Parham, 47, of Panama City, 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: “Keeping dangerous, violent felons off our streets is the prime objective of Operation Take Back America, and this successful prosecution delivers on that promise. Our community will be safer and healthier now that this drug-peddling, violent criminal will be locked away in prison rather than roaming our streets.”

Court documents reflect that the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives assisted the Bay County Sheriff’s Office in the execution of a search warrant at the defendant’s residence in Panama City, during which five ounces of methamphetamine were discovered, and he was arrested on state charges. While in jail, the defendant – a four-time convicted felon legally prohibited from possessing firearms – made incriminating statements during a monitored phone call about the presence of a firearm in his residence that was not previously found by officers during the search. After obtaining a new search warrant based on those incriminating statements, the Bay County Sheriff’s Office conducted another search of the defendant’s residence and recovered the firearm.

The defendant faces imprisonment for up to 15 years at sentencing.

The case involved an investigation by the Bay County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

Sentencing is scheduled for May 29, 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.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Juan De La Cruz Mejia Castro, 33, of El Salvador, was sentenced to ten months in federal prison after pleading guilty to possessing a firearm as an alien unlawfully in the United States. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This dangerous illegal alien is precisely the kind of violent criminal that Operation Take Back America was launched to target and remove from our communities.  President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi have devoted the full might of the Department of Justice toward keeping our citizens safe from the perpetrators of violent crime, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases to give the residents of the Northern District of Florida the safe streets they deserve.”

Court documents reflect that law enforcement responded to a report of shots fired, and upon making contact with the defendant he admitted to drinking alcohol in his truck before firing two rounds from a 9-millimeter pistol around 10:30 p.m. Deputies from the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office found two spent shell casings at the scene, as well as a small amount of marijuana possessed by the defendant.

“The illegal possession of firearms by those unlawfully present in the United States poses a direct threat to the safety of our communities and the rule of law,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tallahassee Assistant Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “HSI, alongside our law enforcement partners, will aggressively pursue and prosecute anyone who endangers public safety. Those who violate our nation’s immigration and gun laws will face swift and decisive consequences.”

The case was investigated by Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, U.S. Immigration and Custom Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Brooke DiSalvo prosecuted the case.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida – Mario Swanston of Port St. Joe, 45, Shannon Jarbar Clayton of Panama City, 45, Santana Wyvonne Harris of Ellenwood, Georgia, 41, Shontel Reshard Fedd of Port St. Joe, 48, and Elizabeth Gray of Panama City, 36, pleaded guilty as charged in federal court to charges in connection with the unlawful distribution of controlled substances. The pleas were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

Swanston, Clayton, and Harris were charged with and pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute cocaine and marijuana. Fedd and Gray were charged with and pleaded guilty to distribution of marijuana.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Dismantling this drug trafficking network required close collaboration and cooperation between our state and federal law enforcement officers, and I am proud to report their hard work has paid off with these successful prosecutions of the traffickers. The Homeland Security Task Force launched by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi will continue to identify, target, and dismantle drug trafficking networks like this one, and my office will follow up with aggressive prosecutions of the traffickers to ensure the citizens of the Northern District of Florida get the safe, drug-free communities they deserve.”

According to court records, between November 2023 and April 2024, Swanston conspired with Clayton and Harris to obtain cocaine and marijuana from the State of Georgia for distribution in the Northern District of Florida. During a traffic stop of Harris, officers located and seized 1,497 grams of cocaine. When officers attempted a subsequent traffic stop of Swanston’s vehicle, Swanston threw a bag containing 222 grams of cocaine out of his vehicle’s window and fled from officers. Officers ultimately stopped Swanston’s vehicle and arrested him, after which they recovered the discarded cocaine.

During the investigation, agents determined that Gray conspired with Swanston and others to store and distribute marijuana at Swanston’s direction. During January 2024, Fedd flew into the Northwest Florida Beaches International Airport via commercial airline, carrying over 5 kilograms of marijuana inside of his luggage, which Fedd and Swanston conspired to distribute in the Northern District of Florida.

Sentencing hearings are scheduled before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker in the Federal Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida on the following dates and times:

Mario Swanston is scheduled for sentencing on April 17, 2026, at 3:00 pm;

Shannon Jarbar Clayton is scheduled for sentencing on March 19, 2026, at 1:00 pm;

Santana Wyvonne Harris is scheduled for sentencing on April 2, 2026, at 3:00 pm;

Shontel Reshard Fedd is scheduled for sentencing on March 30, 2026, at 11:00 am; and

Elizabeth Gray is scheduled for sentencing on March 20, 2026, at 11:00 am.

The pleas were the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from Bay County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Florida Highway Patrol, the Gulf County Sheriff’s Office, the Panama City Police Department, and the Springfield Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo.

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

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

Tallahassee, Florida – Tavaris Andre Donaldson, 30, of Madison, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of failing to register as a sex offender under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA). The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Keeping our kids safe from disgusting sexual predators like this defendant is one of my office’s top priorities, and ensuring sex offenders abide by the legal requirements to register their presence wherever they live is a key component of ensuring they cannot victimize others.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant was convicted of child molestation in May 2014 in Lowndes County, Georgia, and as a result, was required to register as a sex offender in each county where he lived and worked. Although the defendant had been registering as a sex offender as required in Lowndes County, Georgia, he absconded from there in October 2024 and traveled to Madison County, Florida, where he lived and worked. Employment records showed that the defendant began employment in Madison County, Florida, in early-2025; however, the defendant knowingly failed to report his employment and residence as required by SORNA.

Donaldson faces up to ten years’ imprisonment, up to a lifetime term of supervision, and a $250,000 fine.

The case involved a joint investigation by the Madison County Sheriff’s Office and the United States Marshals Service. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

Sentencing is scheduled for May 19, 2026, at 11:00 am at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee, Florida, 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.

Pensacola, Florida – Marco Olavarrieta-Beranza, also known as “Marco Leonardo Olavarrieta,” 45, of Mexico, was sentenced to twenty-seven 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: “This criminal alien sexual predator is precisely the intended target of Operation Take Back America, which was launched by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to repel the invasion of illegal aliens who have threatened the safety of our communities for the past several years. This successful prosecution will ensure this criminal alien spends time in federal prison before being swiftly deported, and thanks to President Trump securing our border we will ensure he stays out of our country for good.”

According to court records, the defendant was deported from the United States in 2019 after being convicted of sexual abuse of a minor under the age of twelve and attempted sexual abuse of a minor under the age of fourteen. Due to these convictions, he was permanently barred from reentering the United States. He illegally returned to the United States and was found in Escambia County, Florida, in November 2025. 

Deportation proceedings against him will commence following the conclusion of serving his federal sentence.

“Illegal reentry after deportation, especially by someone convicted of sex crimes, is a grave violation of U.S. law and a direct threat to community safety,” said ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Miami acting Field Office Director Kelei Walker. “It undermines the integrity of the immigration system and places vulnerable populations at risk. Vigorous enforcement of immigration laws, including prosecution for illegal reentry, is essential to deter future violations and to ensure that those who endanger the safety of others are not allowed to remain in the United States.”

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Jose Francisco Santizo-Perez, also known as “Jose Mynor Castillo Lazaro,” 41, a Guatemalan national, pleaded guilty in federal court to illegal reentry by a removed alien. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “For too long, criminal aliens have completely disregarded our nation’s borders and immigration laws, but President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi launched Operation Take Back America to repel the invasion of illegal immigration and keep our communities safe. With this successful prosecution, we are one step closer to achieving that goal, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute criminal aliens, like this defendant, who will come to realize we take the robust enforcement of our nation’s borders and laws seriously.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant has been deported from the United States four times and has twice been convicted of illegal reentry by a removed alien, first in 2018 in this district, and again in 2020 in the Western District of Texas. After his most recent deportation in 2021, he illegally returned to the United States and was found in Okaloosa County, Florida, in January 2026. He now faces up to ten years in prison followed by removal from the United States.

The case was investigated by U.S. Immigrations and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations. Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes is prosecuting the case.

Santizo-Perez’s sentencing is scheduled for May 18, 2026, at 11:00 am at the United States District 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Tallahassee, Florida – Zachary Phillip Larson, 29, of Tallahassee, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on one count of distribution of child pornography, one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charges.

Larson appeared for his arraignment in federal court before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for May 5, 2026, before Chief District Court Judge Allen C. Winsor.

If convicted, Larson faces a minimum of 5 years’ imprisonment, and up to 20 years’ imprisonment, on the distribution count and receipt counts. Larson also faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment on the possession count.

The case is being jointly investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigations and the Tallahassee Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Justin M. Keen.

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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.

Pensacola, Florida – Gregory E. Simonds Jr., 42, of Pensacola, pleaded guilty in federal court to the charge of arson by means of an explosive causing personal injury. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charge.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Targeting, prosecuting, and eliminating transnational criminal organizations, like the Outlaws Motorcycle Club, is one of the principal objectives of Operation Take Back America, which was launched by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Pam Bondi to devote the full might of the Department of Justice toward keeping our communities safe from violent thugs like this defendant. With yet another successful prosecution under OpTBA, we are one step closer to that goal, and we will continue to aggressively these cases to deliver the safe streets our citizens deserve.”

Court documents reflect that on February 15, 2025, during an altercation with a group of individuals associated with the Pagans Motorcycle Club in the parking lot of Emerald Coast Harley Davidson on Beal Parkway in Fort Walton Beach, the defendant set off an explosive that damaged the adjacent Jimmy John’s restaurant building and injured one of its employees. Although the defendant drove away from the scene, he was quickly identified and arrested by law enforcement. In his car, officers recovered four more explosive devices, two guns, narcotics and drug paraphernalia, and an Outlaws Motorcycle Club vest that the defendant had been identified wearing during the incident. During a subsequent search of his residence, federal agents seized additional explosive devices, explosive making material and equipment, and other evidence that the defendant was making and selling explosives.

Simonds faces a mandatory minimum term of 7 years’ imprisonment, and up to a maximum term of 40 years’ imprisonment.

The case was the result of a joint investigation by the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Florida Department of Law Enforcement. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.

Simonds’s sentencing is scheduled for June 30, 2026, at 9:00 am at the United States District 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 https://www.justice.gov/usao-ndfl.