Northern District of Florida

Tallahassee, Florida – Timeka Griffin, 42, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to five years in federal prison for her role in a 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: “This local drug trafficking ring has been dismantled thanks to the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners and this successful prosecution by my office. Our citizens deserve safe, drug-free streets, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute anyone caught peddling deadly narcotics in this district to ensure we deliver on that promise.” 

Court documents reflect that in July 2025, the Drug Enforcement Administration and Leon County Sheriff’s Office received information regarding the trafficking of cocaine in Leon County.  Through investigation, law enforcement identified Edward Lee Cromartie and Griffin as a source of supply for cocaine and methamphetamine. Law enforcement also identified a suspected drug stash location, and upon execution of a federal search warrant at a storage unit shared by Cromartie and Griffin, seized approximately 1.6 kilograms of methamphetamine, along with multiple firearms, including a stolen handgun. 

In March 2026, Cromartie was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for his role in the drug trafficking conspiracy, distribution, and possession with intent to distribute charges.

“Dealers of Methamphetamine in North Florida should know DEA is coming for you,” said Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “Our agents will bring criminals who distribute this poison in our communities to justice.”

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

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 – Willard Lawrence Gibson, 48 of Seattle, Washington, was sentenced in federal court to 30 years in federal prison for one count of attempted sexual exploitation of children, one count of attempted enticement of a minor, one count of attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, and one count of distribution of child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This successful prosecution and substantial prison sentence were made possible thanks to the outstanding investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners who are zealously pursuing sexual predators, like this defendant, wherever they lurk to keep our kids safe from exploitation and victimization. My office is firmly committed to aggressively prosecuting these horrific crimes to ensure our kids are safe both online and in our communities.”

Court documents reflect that in July 2025, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and other state and federal law enforcement agencies conducted an undercover operation focused on identifying individuals using the internet to sexually exploit children. During that operation, the defendant began communicating through a social media platform with an undercover officer posing as a child, and the conversation later moved to text messaging. During their interactions, the defendant sent the undercover officer two images of child sexual abuse material. Further, court records show that, on multiple occasions, the defendant asked the undercover officer to produce child pornography images and send them to him. When the defendant was arrested in Seattle, his cell phone was seized as evidence and a subsequent search of the device revealed multiple child sexual abuse material images and videos. The defendant’s phone also contained other evidence confirming that he communicated with the undercover officer.

After serving his term of 30 years’ imprisonment, Gibson will have to register as a sexual offender and be on supervised release for the remainder of his life.

“Predators who use sexually explicit material to groom, manipulate, or prey on a child is committing a calculated and unforgivable abuse of that child’s trust and vulnerability,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “HSI and our law enforcement partners will pursue those who seek to groom, coerce, or exploit children online, bring every available investigative resource to bear, and we will work to ensure they face the full consequences of their crimes.”

This case was a joint investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, the Franklin County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from the Seattle Police Department and the King County, Washington, Sheriff’s Office. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric W. Welch.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

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, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge Mark E. Walker to four years in federal prison for one count of attempted enticement of a minor and one count of attempted transfer of obscene material to minors. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case is a terrifying reminder of the countless ways that sexual predators can reach our kids online, and underscores the necessity for parents to closely monitor the online activity of their children to keep them safe from being sexually exploited and victimized. Our excellent law enforcement partners are relentlessly pursuing those predators to stop them before they can hurt any more kids, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute them to the fullest extent of the law to send them to federal prison.”

Court documents reflect that in November 2025, Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Tallahassee Police Department conducted an undercover operation in Leon County focused on identifying individuals using the Internet to sexually exploit children. During the operation, law enforcement acted in an undercover capacity on an online social media platform posing as a minor child. Over a two-day period, the defendant sent the undercover investigator multiple sexually explicit messages and an obscene photo in an effort to entice and persuade the fictitious child to meet him for sexual activity. On November 10, 2025, the defendant traveled to a pre-determined meeting location for the purpose of engaging in sexual activity with the child, at which time he was arrested.

After serving his term of imprisonment, Smith must register as a sexual offender. 

“Predators who target children online are not anonymous, untouchable, or beyond the reach of law enforcement,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “They are criminals, and we will find them. The threats facing children in digital spaces are growing, but so is the resolve of HSI and our state and federal partners to stop those who use the internet to sexually exploit and victimize minors. There is no safe place to hide behind a screen. If you pursue children, we will pursue you, and we will hold you accountable.”

The case was jointly investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the Tallahassee Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt. 

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

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 – Raymond Lewis Shiver, 36, of Crawfordville, Florida, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, after being found guilty by a federal jury of attempting to entice a minor to engage in unlawful sexual activity. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our excellent state and federal law enforcement partners are relentless in their efforts to keep our kids safe by catching predators, like this defendant, before they can succeed in sexually exploiting and victimizing children online. My office remains fully committed to aggressively prosecuting those sick individuals and ensuring they are kept locked away behind federal bars for as long as possible.”

Trial testimony demonstrated that in April 2025, federal, state, and local law enforcement conducted an undercover online chat operation to identify individuals using the internet to sexually exploit children. During the operation, several fictitious ads were posted by law enforcement on websites commonly used for prostitution, and the defendant responded to one of the ads. In his text messaging with an undercover law enforcement officer who was posing as a 15-year-old child, the defendant expressed interest in engaging in sexual activity with the child in exchange for money. The defendant then traveled to meet the child and was arrested by law enforcement. A search of the defendant’s phone confirmed that he was the person communicating with the undercover officer through text messaging and phone calls.

“Cases like this show why proactive investigations and strong partnerships are essential,” said Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell. “Behind this operation were investigators who worked carefully and deliberately to identify dangerous behavior before a child could become a victim. We are proud to work alongside our local and federal partners to protect children and hold offenders accountable.”

“Predators who use the internet to target and sexually exploit children will face the full force of the law,” said Homeland Security Investigations Tampa Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicholas Ingegno. “Those who believe anonymity online, a screen, or a cellphone will shield them from accountability are sorely mistaken. This result was not achieved by one agency acting alone. HSI stands shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners, united in our mission to protect our communities. When criminals threaten public safety, our partnerships close the gaps predators seek to exploit and expose every place they attempt to hide.”

The case involved a joint investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department, Leon County Sheriff’s Office, and Homeland Security Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

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 sentenced to 21 years and six months in federal prison after pleading guilty to one count of distribution of cocaine and one count of distribution of methamphetamine. Childs, who was on supervised release for a 2018 federal drug conviction, was also sentenced to 33 months in federal prison for violating the terms of his supervised release. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the sentence.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This repeat offender’s continued criminality after a prior federal conviction clearly demonstrated that the only way we can protect our community is by keeping him locked away behind federal bars. Thanks to the aggressive prosecution by my office, we have ensured his days of running drugs on our streets are over.”

Court records indicate that the defendant was identified by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) as a poly-drug trafficker in the Tallahassee area. During an undercover operation, DEA  purchased cocaine and methamphetamine from the defendant between November and December 2025. In 2017, Childs was convicted in federal court for distribution of cocaine, and he was serving a term of supervised release as part of his sentence in that case when he sold drugs in 2025.

“Being on supervised release gives people returning to civilian life the opportunity to make better life choices,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “Trafficking in cocaine and methamphetamine is not helping the communities and not the correct choice.”

The case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and 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.

Gainesville, Florida – Denzel Dyshaun Flagg, 27, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of Hobbs Act Robbery. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This successful prosecution was made possible by the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, who tracked down this defendant so we could hold him accountable for his role in this violent crime. We owe it to our citizens to protect them from the predations of violent criminals and to seek maximum punishment to hold those offenders accountable and deter future crime.”

Court documents reflect that on February 18, 2025, the defendant participated in the robbery of the Eastside Food Store in Gainesville, Florida. During the robbery, two other individuals entered the store wearing ski masks, and one of them pointed a gun directly at the face of the store clerk before stealing cash from the register. The defendant acted as the getaway driver. 

Flagg faces a maximum sentence of twenty years’ imprisonment.

Sentencing is scheduled for November 3, 2026, at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before United States Chief District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

The case involved a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Alachua County Sherriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Hapner and James McCain.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Kawana D. Gamble, 46, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to charges of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine and 28 grams or more of cocaine base. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges and plea.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This successful prosecution underscores my office’s commitment to aggressively pursuing and dismantling the networks of drug traffickers flooding our streets with drugs. With assistance from the Gulf Coast HIDTA, our state and federal law enforcement partners are doing excellent work investigating and disrupting these drug trafficking operations, and my office will continue to deliver wins for our community to ensure our citizens get the safe, drug-free streets that they deserve.” 

According to court documents, between May 2024 and September 2025, the defendant conspired with others to distribute powder and crack cocaine in the Okaloosa County area. The investigation involved controlled purchases, a search warrant executed at the defendant’s house, and a search of the defendant’s cell phone data. As a result, law enforcement seized more than 660 grams of cocaine and more than 50 grams of crack cocaine from the defendant.

Gamble’s sentencing has been set for December 30, 2026, at 11:00 a.m. before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers. For both the conspiracy and substantive counts, Gamble faces a minimum mandatory of 5 years’ up to a total of 80 years’ imprisonment. 

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) Task Force. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

LAFAYETTE – On September 29, 2026, United States District Judge David C. Joseph sentenced Anthony Smith, 54, of Pensacola, Florida, to 72 months in federal prison for Conspiracy to Distribute and Possession with Intent to Distribute Controlled Substances after his July 1, 2026, guilty plea.

According to court records, federal agents began investigating a Louisiana-based drug trafficking network in May of 2023. Agents identified a primary supplier and several associates who were using a storage facility in Lafayette to stash their illicit drug supply. Investigators monitored the organization and intercepted communications revealing that narcotics were being prepared for distribution to members of the network, including Smith.

On November 29, 2023, agents observed a member of the network retrieve drugs from the storage facility and transport them to two other co-conspirators. Those associates then traveled to a gas station, at which time Smith arrived in his vehicle, putting him squarely in the center of the distribution scheme. Agents then witnessed one associate place a bag containing a shoebox into Smith’s vehicle, before the group dispersed. Later, Smith was stopped by law enforcement, and a search of his vehicle revealed two kilograms of cocaine concealed inside the shoebox. Smith admitted that he had traveled from Florida for the purpose of obtaining and transporting narcotics in furtherance of the conspiracy. He also acknowledged that he had knowingly joined the drug trafficking network and fully understood its illegal purpose.  

The Drug Enforcement Administration and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office (Mississippi) investigated this case. It was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Daniel Vermaelen and Casey N. Stelly, with assistance from Legal Assistant Christy Angelle.

This case was prosecuted as part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities. Learn more at www.justice.gov/psn.

You may find a copy of this press release (and any updates) on the website of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Louisiana at www.justice.gov/usao-wdla.

Related court documents and information may be found on the website of the District Court for the Western District of Louisiana at www.lawd.uscourts.gov or at https://www.lawd.uscourts.gov/cmecf-pacer, under Case Number 23-CR-00291.

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CONTACT: Public Affairs
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[email protected] www.justice.gov/usao-wdla

Tallahassee, Florida – Marlo G. Davis, 47, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute cocaine and cocaine base, carrying a firearm during a drug-trafficking crime, 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: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work by the Tallahassee Police Department, and this successful prosecution by my office, we will ensure this serial felon is kept locked away in federal prison for continuing to victimize our community with his criminality. By now it should be abundantly clear that my office is committed to aggressively prosecuting anyone who dares to violate the law in our community, and we will deliver the safe, drug-free streets that our citizens deserve by keeping dangerous felons, like this defendant, behind federal bars where they belong.”

Court documents reflect that officers with the Tallahassee Police Department were conducting surveillance when they saw the defendant and his brother get into a vehicle.  The defendant’s brother did not have a valid driver’s license, so they conducted a traffic stop, during which the defendant fled from the vehicle on foot. 

Officers chased the defendant and saw him remove a bag from around his chest while he was running:

Officers ultimately caught the defendant and retrieved the bag he discarded during the chase, which was found to contain a Taurus 9-millimeter pistol and drug paraphernalia.

Inside the vehicle, officers found multiple baggies of white powder concealed within an ice cream pint container; a bag containing crack cocaine; and two other sandwich baggies containing white powder. There were a total of 39 bags containing a total of 3.4 grams of alpha-PV10 (a synthetic cathinone).  Another eight bags were found to contain a total of 3.9 grams of cocaine. In the larger bags, there were 2.5 grams of alpha-PV10, 13.1 grams of crack cocaine, and 1.2 grams of powder cocaine. The defendant made post-Miranda admissions that he was selling drugs and a review of material from his cellphone found multiple photographs of the same ice cream tub found in the car, including photographs of crack cocaine with the ice cream tub lid visible in the background.

The defendant is a convicted felon who faces an enhanced sentence because of prior convictions for robbery, two separate incidents of possession of cocaine with intent to sell, and trafficking in both hydrocodone and oxycodone. Based on his prior convictions, the defendant faces between 20 years’ to life imprisonment.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 10, 2026, at 2:00 pm, in the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

The case involved an investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, with assistance from the Drug Enforcement Administration.  The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Maria Ysabel Mendoza, 34, of Ontario, California, and Daniel Lomeli Hernandez, 32, of Las Vegas, Nevada, were each sentenced to 30 months in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and unlawful use of a communications facility. The sentences were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “For too long, deadly drugs, like fentanyl, freely flowed across our Southern border and flooded our streets, devastating our communities with addiction, death, and despair. But, thanks to close partnerships between our state and federal law enforcement, we are striking back against those drug traffickers and dismantling their networks. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute every criminal engaged in the drug trade in my district to deliver the safe, drug-free streets our citizens deserve.”

According to court records, between March 2024 and April 2024, a co-conspirator in Mexico agreed to deliver more than 400 grams of fentanyl (pills) from California to an undercover law enforcement officer in Florida. 

Once the fentanyl was delivered in Florida, the co-conspirator in Mexico directed Mendoza to collect payment. Mendoza’s partner, Hernandez, agreed to accompany Mendoza for the purpose of collecting the drug money. Mendoza and Hernandez traveled from Mexico to Florida and met with the undercover officer. During the meeting, Mendoza accepted payment for the fentanyl shipment and made statements regarding her knowledge of the fentanyl conspiracy. After collecting the money, Mendoza and Hernandez attempted to wire funds back to Mexico. Mendoza and Hernandez were arrested a few days later. Evidence located on a cell phone used by Mendoza and Hernadez corroborated their active participation in the conspiracy.

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Homeland Security Investigation, the United States Department of State, Panama City Police Department, and Panama City Beach Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Joseph A. Ravelo and Walter Narramore.

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 – J’Shawn Tikariyon Walker, 21, of Tallahassee, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to illegal possession of a machinegun 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: “I applaud the excellent investigative work by Customs and Border Protection agents to thwart this repeat offender’s attempt to acquire machinegun conversion devices from China. The fact that he was already under federal supervision for a prior weapons conviction amply demonstrates that he has no intention to lead a law-abiding life and he must be incarcerated to keep our community safe.”

Court documents reflect that Department of Homeland Security Customs and Border Protection intercepted a package from China addressed to “Jay Walk” at the defendant’s residence. When inspected, the package was found to contain three Glock machinegun conversion devices (MCDs). The defendant was on federal supervised release at the time for charges that included illegal possession of a Glock machinegun. On August 7, 2026, Homeland Security Investigations executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence and found a Glock 19 that had been converted into a machinegun in a shoebox in the defendant’s bedroom. The defendant admitted to ordering an MCD, commonly called a “Glock switch,” from China, and further admitted ownership of the converted Glock machinegun found in his bedroom.

The defendant was prohibited from possessing firearms based on his prior federal felony convictions, which involved the theft of multiple firearms from gun stores and the illegal possession of a machinegun. The defendant had been sentenced to 18 months in prison and was on supervised release at the time of the instant offense.

The defendant faces up to 25 years’ imprisonment.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 9, 2026, at 3:00 pm, in the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

The case involved an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, with assistance from Department of Homeland Security Customs and Border Protection and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Stephen Lamar Jones, 43, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine.  The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I applaud the excellent investigative work by the DEA and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office that supported this successful prosecution by my office. This repeat offender sought to profit from the devastation caused by meth and other drugs, but now he’ll remain locked away in federal prison where he belongs.”

Court records indicate that the defendant was found in possession of 284 grams of methamphetamine. The defendant also had heroin and cocaine in his possession. The defendant has a prior conviction for Trafficking in Amphetamines.

Jones faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 15 years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment. 

The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christie Utt and Tyler Fleming.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 8, 2026, at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime, human and drug trafficking.

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

Pensacola, Florida – James Michael Olshefskie, 55, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for possession of ammunition by a convicted felon and possession of two unregistered firearm silencers. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This repeat offender clearly didn’t get the message that the Northern District of Florida will not tolerate violations of federal law after his last conviction, so my office is more than happy to return him to federal prison to make that point abundantly clear. The safety of our communities is not negotiable, and my office will aggressively enforce the law to keep our streets crime-free.”

On September 11, 2025, United States Probation Officers visited the defendant at his residence in Pensacola, Florida, as part of his federal post-conviction supervision. The defendant was on federal supervised release for a 2024 federal felony firearm conviction, and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. During their visit, probation officers found ammunition and firearm silencers in the defendant’s bedroom. 

The case involved an investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Hunter Drake Lovett, 30, of Pace, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to felony theft of government property. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This defendant thought he could enrich himself by stealing signs from our national parks that were paid for with U.S. taxpayer money, but thanks to the excellent investigative work by our federal law enforcement partners and this successful prosecution by my office, he now faces justice for his crimes.”

Court documents reflect that, in August 2026, state law enforcement and federal agents executed a search warrant on the defendant’s storage unit in Shalimar, Florida. Inside the storage unit, agents found hundreds of signs that were stolen from state and federal properties in the Northern District of Florida, Middle District of Alabama, Southern District of Alabama, Middle District of Georgia, and Southern District of Mississippi. Agents utilized GPS data from the defendant’s work vehicle to confirm that he was within close proximity to multiple sign locations at the times the thefts occurred, including the Eufaula National Wildlife Refuge and Conecuh National Forest. The defendant would then sell or attempt to sell the stolen signage to antique malls, flea markets, or via social media for profit. The signs that the defendant stole from the U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service totaled $7,326.79. 

Lovett faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

The case was investigated by the United States Fish & Wildlife Service and United States Forest Service with assistance from the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services Office of Agricultural Law Enforcement, Eufaula (Alabama) Police Department, and Florida Forest Service. Assistant United States Attorney Brooke D. Lindsay is prosecuting the case.

Lovett’s sentencing is scheduled for December 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m., at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. 

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 – Adolph Sutton, Jr., 65, of Malone, Florida, sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and two counts of distributing 50 grams or more methamphetamine. Michael Peak, 56, of Bascom, Florida, was sentenced to 54 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and two counts of distributing 50 grams or more 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 work of the Jackson County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA, and this successful prosecution by my office, this drug trafficking ring has been dismantled and we are one step closer to delivering the safe, drug-free streets that our citizens deserve. My office is putting drug traffickers on notice that anyone caught peddling deadly drugs in the Northern District of Florida has punched a one-way ticket to federal prison.”

Court documents reflect that on two occasions, Sutton and Peak sold methamphetamine to law enforcement as part of an undercover operation. On May 6, 2025, the defendants sold 223 grams of methamphetamine to law enforcement. On May 29, 2025, an additional 438 grams of methamphetamine were sold to law enforcement. 

“These men profited off the suffering of our most vulnerable citizens,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “Methamphetamine destroys the individual and ultimately the family. Our North Florida communities will be safer with these criminals off the streets.”

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

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 – Malcolm Akeem Holloway, 22, of Tallahassee, 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: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners are committed to removing dangerous, serial offenders, like this defendant, from our streets to keep our communities safe, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute those criminals to the fullest extent of the law. The safety of our communities is not negotiable, and we must incapacitate chronic offenders, like this defendant, through robust criminal prosecutions and strict incarceration.”

Court documents reflect that, in March 2026, the Tallahassee Police Department was conducting surveillance when they observed the defendant carrying a backpack. They watched the defendant get into the front passenger seat of a vehicle that was subsequently stopped for multiple traffic infractions. A law enforcement K9 alerted to the presence of illegal contraband, which prompted a search of the vehicle. The backpack contained clothing matching the defendant’s size, a loaded FN 9 millimeter pistol which had been previously reported stolen, and two plastic shopping bags containing a combined total of 65 taped, hand-rolled cigarettes packaged in a manner typical for the introduction of contraband into correctional facilities.

A review of material from the defendant’s Instagram account from December 30, 2025, to March 2, 2026, found multiple instances of the defendant posing with various firearms. 

The defendant was prohibited from possessing firearms because of prior state convictions for possession of a firearm by a delinquent, carrying a concealed firearm, three counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, and possession of a machinegun. Most recently, the defendant had been to prison for three years and was released on December 8, 2025, approximately three months before his arrest.

Holloway faces up to 15 years in prison.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 11, 2026, at 10:00 am, in the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

The case involved an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Tallahassee Police Department, with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

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 – Damarius M. Mimms, 31, of Panama City, Florida, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine. Cara Rene Frazier, 30, and Ashley Rich, 43, both of Panama City, Florida, were each sentenced to over six years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine. The sentences were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners, and this successful prosecution by my tenacious team of federal prosecutors, we have dismantled this trafficking operation and sent these drug peddlers to federal prison. This should serve as yet another strong warning to anyone selling drugs in my district that the only thing they have to look forward to is an extended stay behind federal bars. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Todd Blanche promised to deliver safe, drug-free streets for our citizens, and that is exactly what my office will ensure through continued aggressive prosecutions like this one.”

Court documents reflect that between January 1, 2024, and September 18, 2024, Frazier, Mimms, and Rich were responsible for distributing tens of thousands of dollars’ worth of methamphetamine in the Panama City Beach area. A joint law enforcement investigation was initiated after suspicious packages addressed to Frazier were identified by the United States Post Office. The investigation revealed that the co-defendants worked together to import significant quantities of methamphetamine from the Orlando area and then distributed it throughout the Panama City area.

“The defendants in this case took a chance trafficking narcotics through the mail, and will now spend a significant amount of time in federal prison,” said Bladismir Rojo, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Miami Division.  “The United States Postal Inspection Service will continue to work with its law enforcement partners in cases such as this, in order to prevent drugs from reaching the streets.”

The case involved a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, United States Postal Inspection Service, and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric W. Welch.

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.

Pensacola, Florida – Daniel Bookout, 21, an inmate in a Florida State Prison, was sentenced to 45 months in prison for mailing threatening communications. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the sentence today. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Protecting our communities from violence and threats of violence remains a top priority for my office, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute cases like this to keep our citizens safe from the predations of violent thugs.”

Court documents reflect that on October 18, 2024, the Clerk of Court for the United States District Court for the Northern District of Florida, received a threatening letter sent by the defendant directed toward a victim. In the letter, the defendant said he knew the victim’s address and the route they regularly drove to work. Further, the defendant claimed to be a gang member and that he had people watching the victim. The defendant demanded to be released from prison and threatened to have the victim killed. 

Upon his release from federal prison, Bookout will be on three years of supervised release. 

“The US Marshals do not tolerate criminal threats against innocent victims,” remarked Acting U.S. Marshal Greg Leljedal. “Protecting our nation’s federal judicial system and its participants has been a top priority of this organization for over 200 years.”

“Being behind bars does not give anyone a license to threaten or intimidate victims,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “This sentence holds the defendant accountable and sends a clear message that victims have a right to come forward without the fear of retaliation.”

The case involved a joint investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the United States Marshals Service. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric Welch.

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 – Jarvis Myers, 40, of Tallahassee, Florida, was found guilty by a federal jury in Tallahassee following a two-day jury trial for possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon. The verdict was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work of the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, with support from our federal law enforcement officers, my office has successfully prosecuted this dangerous felon and we will see to it that he is held accountable. We remain laser-focused on our mission to deliver the safe, crime-free streets that our citizens deserve, and my tenacious prosecutors will continue to aggressively pursue anyone who dares to violate federal law in our district.”

According to trial testimony, on May 31, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant on an Airbnb residence rented by the defendant and a vehicle he possessed. During their search, deputies found a loaded handgun partially concealed beneath a bed pillow, as well as a full box of ammunition in a duffle bag containing personal items belonging to the defendant. As a convicted felon, the defendant was legally prohibited from possessing firearms and ammunition.  

The case was jointly investigated by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Emma Schwan is prosecuting the case. 

Sentencing is scheduled for December 10, 2026, at 3:00 pm in the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker. 

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Roosevelt Allen Douglas II, 46, of Hawthorne, pleaded guilty in federal court to accessing with intent to view child pornography, receipt or attempted receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the plea today.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our law enforcement partners are relentless in their pursuit of predators using the internet to access and transmit child sexual abuse material, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases to ensure those criminals are kept locked away behind federal bars.” 

Court documents reflect that on April 24, 2023, the defendant used his laptop to access a website that displayed child pornography for sale. After the defendant “previewed” the child pornography on the website, he sent money to an individual that was engaged in the business of receiving and laundering money for a child pornography distribution enterprise. After learning that the defendant had attempted to purchase child pornography on other occasions, law enforcement searched the defendant’s electronic devices, which contained multiple images of child sex abuse material. 

Due to a prior conviction relating to sexual abuse or abusive sexual conduct involving a minor, Douglas faces 15 to 80 years’ imprisonment and up to life on supervised release. 

Sentencing is scheduled before United States Chief District Judge Allen C. Winsor, in Gainesville, Florida on December 8, 2026, at 1:30PM.

The case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Alachua County Sherriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Adam Hapner 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. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

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 – Nathan Taylor Porter, 21, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced after a federal conviction for two counts of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This felon’s repeated offenses demonstrated his brazen disregard for the law and posed a threat to the safety of our community. My office remains committed to safeguarding our citizens against the predations of dangerous criminals, like this defendant, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases until our residents get the safe, crime-free streets that they deserve.”

A federal investigation revealed that on October 17, 2025, law enforcement located a loaded .40-caliber pistol in Porter’s backpack during a search. Porter admitted ownership of the firearm. At the time that Porter possessed the firearm, he was a convicted felon and was legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. While he was awaiting trial in state court for his unlawful firearm possession, Porter was caught with another firearm on March 14, 2026. 

Porter was sentenced to 51 months’ imprisonment followed by three years of Supervised Release at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee by District Judge Allen C. Winsor. 

The case was jointly investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Tallahassee Police Department, and the Leon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo 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 – Shawn Steele, 52, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to two years in federal prison for making false statements to federally insured institutions. This investigation is part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Defrauding federally insured financial institutions by lying on loan applications has landed this fraudster in federal prison, and should be a warning to others looking to make a quick buck by ripping off a credit union.” 

Between March 7, 2023, and June 30, 2023, the defendant obtained loans from Pen Air Credit Union and Central Credit Union of Florida for a Jeep Wrangler, a Ferrari 488 Pista, and a Cape Horn boat. The defendant submitted false pay stubs and provided false information when applying for the loans with the intent to influence the financial institutions’ loan decisions. Based on these false representations, the defendant was granted loans in the amounts of $98,120.07, $250,000 and $299,243.00. 

“This sentence holds Shawn Steele accountable for his actions and the financial harm caused by his conduct,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “The FBI will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate financial crimes and ensure those who commit fraud are held accountable.”

The sentence was the result of an investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Jeffrey M. Tharp. 

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

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, Pensacola, & Gainesville, Florida — The Department of Justice’s Office on Violence Against Women has awarded more than $74 million in federal grants to support state, local, and Tribal governments in combatting domestic violence and sexual assault in FY2026. In recognition of Domestic Violence Awareness Month, United States Attorney John P. Heekin of the Northern District of Florida highlighted federal grants recently awarded to key stakeholder groups operating within the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin said: “October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, during which we reaffirm our commitment to providing the safety, dignity, and justice that victims of domestic violence deserve. Through these critical investments of federal grant monies, we strengthen our partnership with coalitions operating in my district to provide victim support services as we work toward building a future free from domestic violence and sexual assault.”

The awards, paid through the Office on Violence Against Women Fiscal Year 2026 State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program, support the critical work of state and territory domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions.  Grant funds authorized under this program may be used for coordinating state and territory victim services activities, or collaborating and coordinating with federal, state, territory, and local entities engaged in violence against women activities.

OVW State and Territory Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Coalitions Program funds were awarded to the following entities within the Northern District of Florida:

• Florida Council Against Sexual Violence, Inc., based in Tallahassee, Florida;
• Florida Partnership to End Domestic Violence, Inc., based in Tallahassee, Florida

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is committed to prosecuting those who violate federal laws, collaborating with local law enforcement, and ensuring victims have access to the resources they need. By understanding the signs of abuse and connecting victims to resources, we can all play a role in creating safer communities. For more information on domestic violence or to access resources, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence.  

The Department of Justice funds essential victim services through its grantmaking. Grantees of OVW and the Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) run programs that support victims in the aftermath of domestic violence. There is help available, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), and the Strong Hearts Native Helpline, 1-844-7NATIVE (762-8483). In addition, OVW’s Resources for Victims and Survivors webpage lists national hotlines as well as state, territorial, and Tribal domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions that can direct victims to local resources and services, as well as opportunities to get involved.

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, Pensacola, & Gainesville, Florida — The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is proud to join the U.S. Department of Justice, the Office on Violence Against Women (OVW), and communities across the country in observing Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM) this October. This month, and every month, we will continue to use every available resource and building strategic partnerships with local law enforcement, fellow prosecutors, and victim service organizations to ensure justice, safety, and healing for victims. 

U.S. Attorney John P. Heekin said: “Domestic Violence Awareness Month is an opportunity for us to light the beacon of hope for victims of domestic violence to encourage those suffering in silence to come forward. My office is devoted to providing victims with the safety, dignity, and justice they deserve. We join our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to reaffirm our commitment to holding abusers accountable and ending the cycle of violence. Together we can build a future free from domestic violence.”

The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Florida is committed to prosecuting those who violate federal laws, collaborating with local law enforcement, and ensuring victims have access to the resources they need. By understanding the signs of abuse and connecting victims to resources, we can all play a role in creating safer communities. For more information on domestic violence or to access resources, please visit https://www.justice.gov/ovw/domestic-violence.  

The Department of Justice funds essential victim services through its grantmaking. Grantees of OVW and the Department’s Office for Victims of Crime (OVC) run programs that support victims in the aftermath of domestic violence. There is help available, including the National Domestic Violence Hotline, 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), and the Strong Hearts Native Helpline, 1-844- 7NATIVE (762-8483). In addition, OVW’s Resources for Victims and Survivors webpage lists national hotlines as well as state, territorial, and Tribal domestic violence and sexual assault coalitions that can direct victims to local resources and services, as well as opportunities to get involved.

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 – David Christopher Jensen, 54, of Steinhatchee, Florida, has pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana and one count of possession of an unregistered firearm. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the plea.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work of the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office and ATF, this armed drug trafficker has been taken off our streets and the successful prosecution by my office will ensure he remains behind bars where he belongs.”

The investigation revealed that on September 25, 2025, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), along with the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office, executed two federal search warrants on the defendant’s primary residence and his storage unit. During the execution of the search warrants, law enforcement seized cocaine and marijuana that was intended for distribution. Law enforcement also located several firearms, including a short-barreled rifle. During an interview with law enforcement, the defendant admitted ownership over the narcotics and firearms.

Jensen faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment for possession with intent to distribute cocaine and marijuana and up to 10 years’ imprisonment for possession of an unregistered firearm. 

The case was jointly investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives and the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo. 

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Eric Felton Cooper Jr., 36, of Quincy, Florida, has been indicted in federal court for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the charge.

Cooper appeared in federal court for his arraignment before United States Magistrate Judge Martin A. Fitzpatrick in Tallahassee, Florida. Jury trial is scheduled for October 26, 2026, at 8:15 am before District Court Judge Mark E. Walker in Tallahassee, Florida.

Copper 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 Tallahassee Police Department. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo. 

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. 

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Tyronzia Roquza Levine, 45, of Pensacola, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, 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: “I applaud the excellent investigative work by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, with support from our federal law enforcement partners, which stopped this armed drug trafficker before he could continue peddling deadly drugs on our streets. My office is committed to aggressively prosecuting these cases to deliver the safe, drug-free streets that our citizens deserve.”

Court documents reflect that on September 19, 2025, deputies with the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office observed the defendant asleep in the driver’s seat of a parked vehicle. Deputies could plainly see a large amount of U.S. currency along with multiple bags in the cup holder, one of which contained a crystal-like substance. During the search of the vehicle, the deputies seized methamphetamine, cocaine, and a .22-caliber revolver.             

The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Etherton and Jeffrey Tharp are prosecuting the case.

Sentencing is scheduled for November 23, 2026, at 1:00 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Jamil M. Hampton, 55, of Fort Walton Beach, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine; one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of cocaine and more than 28 grams of cocaine base; one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense; and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the charges. 

Hampton 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 October 19, 2026, in Pensacola before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

If convicted, Hampton faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and up to life imprisonment on the drug conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute counts due to a prior conviction for a serious drug felony; a minimum mandatory 5 years’ imprisonment and up to life imprisonment, consecutive to any other sentence, on the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking count; and up to 15 years’ imprisonment on the felon in possession count.            

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas S.P. Geeker.

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 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 – Bobby Womack, 45, of DeFuniak Springs, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, 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: “This armed drug trafficker thought he could enrich himself by peddling deadly drugs, but thanks to the excellent investigative work of our state and federal law enforcement partners and this successful prosecution by my office, he has learned we have zero-tolerance for criminality in my district. Our citizens deserve to live in safe, drug-free communities, and my office will continue to aggressively prosecute drug traffickers, like this defendant, to deliver on that promise.”

Court documents reflect that law enforcement received a tip that the defendant was distributing narcotics out of a hotel in DeFuniak Springs, Florida. Law enforcement surveilled the defendant at the hotel for several days and confirmed that the defendant was trafficking controlled substances. The defendant was arrested while attempting to leave the hotel, and was found to be in possession of methamphetamine and crack cocaine. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant for the defendant’s hotel room and located several bags containing methamphetamine and cocaine, as well as a stolen handgun with a loaded magazine, in addition to other drug paraphernalia. 

The defendant faces a minimum of 10 years’ imprisonment up to life imprisonment on the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine count; up to 15 years’ imprisonment on the possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon count; and a minimum mandatory 5 years’ imprisonment up to life imprisonment consecutive to any sentence for the other offenses on the possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.            

This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Walton County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Thomas S.P. Geeker and Christopher C. Patterson. 

Sentencing is scheduled for December 29, 2026, at 1:00 pm, in the United States Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

Tallahassee, Florida – Jeremy Jovan Randolph, 37, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to four and a half years 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: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners work hard every day to keep dangerous criminals, like this defendant, off our streets to ensure our citizens can live in the safe, crime-free communities they deserve. By aggressively prosecuting cases like this, and ensuring dangerous criminals like this defendant are kept behind bars, we will succeed in improving public safety for the law-abiding citizens of the Northern District of Florida.”

Court documents reflect that on February 5, 2026, Tallahassee Police Department detectives assigned to the Traffic Unit noticed a vehicle parked illegally in a handicapped spot in a gas station parking lot. The detectives observed the defendant exit the store and enter the vehicle. The detectives then approached and could smell the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle and confirmed the defendant did not have a medical marijuana card. The defendant was asked to exit the vehicle. As the defendant did so, the detectives saw an AR-style pistol on the driver’s side floor of the vehicle where he had been sitting. The pistol was equipped with a 60-round magazine. The defendant is a previously convicted felon and was legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. 

The case involved a joint investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Tallahassee Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Eric W. Welch is prosecuting the case.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 –Vontavius Jamaal Bradley, 23, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to 42 months in federal prison after having previously pleaded guilty to 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 and sentence today. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “These defendants victimized several innocent individuals in order to fraudulently enrich themselves, but thanks to the excellent investigative work of our federal law enforcement partners we have dismantled their scheme and now hold them accountable for their crimes. With support from the National Fraud Enforcement Division, my office is aggressively prosecuting fraudsters and ensuring they see the inside of a prison cell for ripping off the American people.”

According to court documents, Bradley conspired with his co-defendants, Elizabeth Ann Rogers and Donny Bernard Ross, and others to open accounts at various banks and credit unions in the Pensacola area using stolen identities. Once opened, the defendants used the accounts to cash stolen, altered, or counterfeit checks. Bradley obtained and provided to his accomplices fraudulent identification documents, including false U.S. passport cards. He also provided the fraudulent checks to conduct fraudulent transactions, and the co-defendants all split the proceeds. As part of the conspiracy and scheme, Bradley and his co-defendants fraudulently obtained and used personal identifying information of real people without their knowledge or authorization.

In addition to having to serve 42 months in prison, Bradley was ordered to pay $18,264 in restitution to financial institution and identity theft victims. Rogers and Ross have also pleaded guilty to the same charges and are awaiting sentencing before United States District Judge M. Casey Rodgers.

“Safeguarding U.S. passports and visas is central to the Diplomatic Security Service mission and critical to protecting our national security,” said Special Agent in Charge Ryan McSeveney of the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service Miami Field Office. “U.S. passports and visas are among the most sought-after travel documents in the world, and DSS is firmly committed to protecting their integrity. We thank our law enforcement partners for their outstanding collaboration in this case and will continue to pursue those who use identity theft and document fraud to facilitate criminal activity and defraud the American people.”

The case resulted from a joint investigation conducted by the U.S. Department of State’s Diplomatic Security Service, 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 prosecuted t case.

On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

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 – Lavon Trinere Mars, 39, of Pensacola, Florida, has been indicted in federal court on one count of conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of a methamphetamine 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.

Mars 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 November 16, 2026, in Pensacola before District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II.

If convicted, Mars faces a minimum mandatory sentence of 10 years’ imprisonment and up to life imprisonment on the drug conspiracy 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 and the Florida Highway Patrol. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Thomas S.P. Geeker.

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 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 – Ray Anthony Pearson II, 32, of Navarre, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of wire fraud involving Small Business Administration (SBA) Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loan funds. This prosecution was part of the Task Force to Eliminate Fraud launched by President Donald J. Trump, a whole-of-government effort to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Fraudsters seized on the generous federal programs intended to help businesses hurt by the COVID-19 pandemic, and tried to enrich themselves by ripping off the American taxpayer. My office is aggressively pursuing those criminals to hold them accountable, and this successful prosecution is another win in the National Fraud Enforcement Division’s war on fraud, waste, and abuse within our federal programs.”

Court documents reflect that in 2021, the defendant, while working full-time in a civilian job and part-time as an Air Force Reservist, caused to be submitted a fraudulent online application for a Paycheck Protection Program loan that falsely claimed he was self-employed with a business that lost income due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of his fraud, the defendant received $20,142 in PPP loan funds to which he was not entitled. He submitted a second PPP loan application that was denied.

On April 7, 2026, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.

Pearson faces up to 20 years’ imprisonment. As part of his plea agreement, Pearson has agreed to forfeit any forfeitable assets and to pay restitution.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 17, 2026, at 2 p.m. at the United States Courthouse in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. 

The case was investigated by the Air Force Office of Special Investigations. Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Etherton and Walter Narramore are prosecuting the case.

The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division's prosecution of fraud schemes that exploit the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP). Since the inception of the CARES Act, the Fraud Section has prosecuted over 150 defendants in more than 95 criminal cases and has seized over $75 million in cash proceeds derived from fraudulently obtained PPP funds, as well as numerous real estate properties and luxury items purchased with such proceeds. More information can be found at Justice.gov/OPA/pr/justice-department-takes-action-against-covid-19-fraud.

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 Benjamina Davis, 43, of Tallahassee, 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: “This case required exceptional investigative work by the Tallahassee Police Department, with support from our federal law enforcement partners, to identify, locate, and arrest this violent criminal. My office stands shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners in the fight against violent crime, and we will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases to ensure dangerous thugs, like this defendant, are kept out of our communities and locked away behind bars.”

Court documents reflect that on February 7, 2026, the defendant was the driver of a car at the intersection of Ocala Road and Pensacola Street in Tallahassee. The defendant rolled down his window and fired a handgun several times into the air. After discharging his firearm, the defendant ran a red light and fled the area. The Tallahassee Police Department (TPD) investigated the shooting and located traffic camera footage that captured the shots. A detective responded to the scene and recovered twelve .40-caliber shell casings.

On February 10, 2026, TPD executed a search warrant at the defendant’s residence, and located the firearm used in the shooting hidden in a wall-mounted “concealment shelf.”

A loaded, extended Glock magazine was found next to the firearm, and a separate drum-style magazine was found in a dresser drawer. Laboratory analysis confirmed the defendant’s firearm had fired the shell casings recovered from the scene of the shooting. Historical location information for the defendant’s cellphone also put him at the scene of the shooting at the time of the shooting on February 7, 2026.

The defendant was prohibited from possessing firearms because he had previously spent 10 years in prison for two counts of robbery with a firearm, two counts of aggravated assault with a firearm, and possession of a controlled substance.

The case involved an investigation by the Tallahassee Police Department 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 James A. McCain.

The defendant faces up to 15 years in federal prison.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 3, 2026, at 10:00 am, in the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Robert L. Hinkle.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Amontea Allen John Mitchell, 28, of Tallahassee, Florida, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after previously pleading guilty to attempted enticement of a minor, attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor, 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: “Our state and federal law enforcement partners remain ever-vigilant to stay one step ahead of the sexual predators, like this defendant, who seek to sexually exploit and victimize kids online. Aggressively prosecuting these sick individuals and ensuring they remain locked away in prison is the best way we can ensure our kids stay safe, and that is exactly what I will ensure my office does in cases like this.”

Court documents reflect that in April 2026, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Tallahassee Police Department conducted an undercover operation to identify individuals using the internet to sexually exploit children. During the operation, the defendant responded to an online advertisement for a female escort and began communicating through text message with an undercover officer who was posing as a 15-year-old child. After the undercover officer told the defendant he was speaking to a 15-year-old female, the defendant proceeded to send an obscene photograph and asked the child to produce child pornography to send to him. The defendant ultimately expressed an interest in engaging in sex with the child. Law enforcement arrested the defendant near an arranged meeting location. Inside the defendant’s backpack, agents found three condoms and a firearm. The defendant is a felon with multiple prior felony convictions and is legally prohibited from possessing a firearm.

“Protecting children from those who seek to exploit them requires vigilance and collaboration,” said Tallahassee Police Chief Lawrence Revell. “This investigation is an example of what can be accomplished when local and federal law enforcement agencies combine their resources and expertise. We will continue working alongside our partners to identify those who prey on children and protect the most vulnerable members of our community.”

Upon his release from federal prison, Mitchell will be required to serve five years of supervised release and register as a sex offender. 

The conviction and sentence were the result of a joint investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Tallahassee Police Department, the Leon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant United States Attorney Emma Schwan prosecuted the case.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood and Project Safe Neighborhoods. Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – John Frederick Black, 46, of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty to five counts of attempted transfer of obscene material to minors. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the guilty plea.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “I truly appreciate the dedication of our state and federal law enforcement partners to target, identify, and incapacitate the sexual predators, like this defendant, seeking to sexually exploit and victimize kids online. My office is committed to aggressively prosecuting those sick individuals to ensure they are locked away behind federal bars where they belong.”

Court records reflect that in January 2026, detectives with the Leon County Sheriff’s Office participated in an undercover operation in Tallahassee focused on identifying adults who used the internet to sexually exploit children. During the operation, the defendant contacted the undercover officer, who he believed to be a 13-year-old child, and engaged in sexually explicit conversation. The defendant also sent obscene photographs and videos of himself. The investigation revealed that the defendant resided in Texas and was employed as a police detective with the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in Houston, Texas.

Black will be sentenced in federal court before United States District Judge Robert L. Hinkle in Tallahassee, Florida, on December 3, 2026, at 2:00 p.m.

Black faces up to 10 years’ imprisonment on each count.

The case involved an joint investigation by the Leon County Sheriff’s Office and Homeland Security Investigations. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt. 

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

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 –Taija Avion Smith, 25, and Jaheed Anthony Williams, 24, both of Tallahassee, Florida, have been sentenced in federal court after pleading guilty to conspiracy to commit mail theft, theft of a mail key, bank fraud conspiracy, and multiple counts of aggravated identity theft. Williams, who also previously pleaded guilty to 14 counts of bank fraud, was sentenced to four years’ imprisonment.  Smith was sentenced to two years’ imprisonment. The sentences were announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Our citizens deserve to be able to rely upon the U.S. Postal Service to quickly, efficiently, and securely deliver the mail, but this former postal employee violated the position of trust she occupied to enrich herself and her accomplish. Thanks to the excellent investigative work by the USPIS and Postal Inspector General, with support from our local law enforcement partners, these criminals are being sent to federal prison.”

Court documents reflect that between March 11, 2021, and May 21, 2024, Smith was employed by the United States Postal Service, in Tallahassee, Florida. Due to her employment, Smith had access to a postal key, which she stole and gave to her co-defendant, Williams. Together, Smith and Williams conspired to steal U.S. Mail, which included stealing mailed checks that they fraudulently deposited in financial institutions and thereafter split the proceeds of their scheme. Court records also show that Smith fraudulently received and used online bank login credentials of other individuals as part of the conspiracy. 

“Individuals who engage in crimes that violate the laws protecting the United States mail, whether employees or non-employees, will be pursued by the Postal Inspection Service alongside our state, local and federal partners,” said Bladismir Rojo, Inspector in Charge, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Miami Division. “These federal prison sentences should serve as a warning to criminals who consider mail theft and check fraud a lucrative endeavor.”

This case was jointly investigated by the Tallahassee Police Department, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Florida Department of Law Enforcement, and the United States Postal Service - Office of Inspector General. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.

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 – Selvin J. Tello-Perez, 25, of Guatemala, pleaded guilty to possession of a firearm and ammunition by an illegal alien. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the plea.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “My office continues to fulfill the promise made by President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Todd Blanche that we will protect our streets from criminal illegal aliens who have demonstrated a brazen disregard for our nation’s laws. Our citizens deserve secure borders and crime-free neighborhoods, and my office will deliver both with continued successful prosecutions like this one.”

According to court documents, in January 2026, the defendant was arrested in Okaloosa County after being caught driving an electric scooter with a loaded revolver in a fanny pack zip-tied to its handlebars. The defendant is a previously deported Guatemalan citizen who had illegally re-entered the country.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 17, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida before United States District Court Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. Tello-Perez faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment.

The case was jointly investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement’s Enforcement and Removal Operations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Alicia H. Forbes. 

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 - A federal jury has found Ke Anthony Javon Blackmon, 30, of Pensacola, guilty of conspiracy to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, two counts of distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl, possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and carrying and possessing a firearm during, in relation, and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida announced the verdict.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This armed drug trafficker’s days of flooding our streets with deadly poison are over thanks to the outstanding trial work of my federal prosecutors who delivered a win that will benefit our entire community. I deeply appreciate the excellent investigative work by our Okaloosa and Escambia County sheriffs’ offices and our federal law enforcement partners that dismantled this drug trafficker’s operations and helped my team secure this successful prosecution. My office will continue to aggressively prosecute every drug peddler operating in my district to deliver the safe, drug-free streets that our citizens deserve.”  

According to evidence presented at trial, between around November 2024 and May 2025, Blackmon conspired with others to distribute large quantities of fentanyl throughout Escambia and Okaloosa Counties. During the investigation, law enforcement officers conducted controlled purchases of fentanyl from Blackmon. A subsequent search at two residences in Pensacola connected to him led to the seizure of over 3 kilograms of fentanyl, multiple firearms, and ammunition. The evidence further showed that Blackmon supplied fentanyl to other dealers, including up to a kilogram at a time and sometimes in exchange for firearms, which were illegal for him to possess as a convicted felon.

Due to multiple prior convictions for serious violent felonies, Blackmon faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years up to life imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for December 22, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. in the U.S. Courthouse in Pensacola before United States District Judge T. Kent Wetherell, II. 

The case was the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, with assistance from the Gulf Coast High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) Task Force. Assistant United States Attorneys Jessica Etherton, Alicia Forbes, and Brooke Lindsay 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 – Devon Mae Witryk, 28, of Columbus, Ohio, was sentenced to three years in federal prison after pleading guilty to felony child neglect occurring on Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. 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 Air Force partners, the child in this case was rescued from absolutely deplorable conditions, and my office has ensured this despicable defendant is held accountable for her criminal neglect.”

Court documents reveal that in June 2023, a welfare investigation was initiated for a child residing on Eglin Air Force Base. The defendant was the child’s mother and a military spouse. Investigation revealed the home was in deplorable condition and the young child needed medical attention. Due to the child not receiving appropriate care and supervision, the defendant’s home was inspected and investigators rescued the child. Witryk no longer has custody of or contact with the child. The child’s father was court-martialed by the U.S. Air Force for his role in the offense. 

This case was investigated by Eglin Air Force Base Security Forces Investigations. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Walter E. Narramore.

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 – Travis W. Carroll, 26, of Pensacola, Florida, was sentenced to five and a half years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm or ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense. The sentence 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 absolutely imperative, and thanks to the excellent investigative work by the Escambia County Sheriff’s Office and our federal law enforcement partners, that is exactly what we have accomplished in this case. We will continue to aggressively prosecute these cases to deliver the safe, crime-free streets that our citizens deserve.”

Court documents reflect that law enforcement received reports of an armed robbery at the Beacon Food Store in Pensacola, Florida. Law enforcement responded to the scene and observed the defendant, who matched the description given of the armed robbery suspect, riding an electric bicycle nearby. The defendant, who is a convicted felon legally prohibited from possessing firearms, ran a stop sign and was pulled over. During the contact with the defendant, law enforcement located a loaded firearm, methamphetamine, a scale, and more than $600.00 in U.S. Currency on his person.

The case involved an 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 Attorneys Chris Patterson and Thomas S.P. Geeker.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Emiliano Rafael Hernandez Escamilla, 26, of Mexico, was sentenced after a federal conviction for possession of ammunition by an alien. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Todd Blanche remain committed to devoting the full might of the Department of Justice toward protecting our communities from criminal illegal aliens threatening the safety of our citizens. My office will continue to aggressively enforce our nation’s laws to deliver the secure borders and safe streets that our citizens deserve.”

A federal investigation revealed that on March 27, 2026, law enforcement located fifty rounds of 9-millimeter ammunition during a lawful search of the Escamilla’s vehicle. Immigration records revealed that Escamilla was a native of Mexico and did not have lawful status in the United States. Escamilla admitted to ownership of the ammunition and admitted he was illegally present in the United States.

Escamilla was sentenced to credit for time served (approximately 134 days) at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee by District Judge Mark E. Walker. As an illegal alien, Escamilla is subject to deportation.

The case involved a joint investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Bay County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Joseph A. Ravelo 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 –Ronnie Lee Small Jr., 48, of Wewahitchka, Florida, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison after previously being convicted of three counts of distribution of methamphetamine at jury trial. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “If the message from my office isn’t already abundantly clear, let me say it plainly now: if you peddle deadly drugs in our communities, my exceptional prosecutors will send you to federal prison. The citizens of this District deserve to live in safe, drug-free communities, and that is exactly what my office will deliver with continued aggressive prosecutions and lengthy prison sentences like this one.”

Evidence at trial demonstrated that the defendant sold methamphetamine to a confidential source working with the Gulf County Sheriff’s Office on three separate occasions with approximate weights of one ounce, one ounce, and two ounces.

This sentencing was the result of a joint investigation by the Gulf County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Assistant United States Attorneys Michelle Spaven and James A. McCain prosecuted the case.

“This sentencing reflects the strong partnership between the Gulf County Sheriff’s Office and our local, state, and federal partners,” said Gulf County Sheriff Mike Harrison. “Together, we remain dedicated to protecting our communities and ensuring offenders are held accountable.”

“We are coming for methamphetamine traffickers in the Florida Panhandle,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “Our agents maintain a strong presence in that region and will continue to do so until these criminals are brought to justice.”

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 – Ramone Ron Young, Jr., 34, of Gainesville, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to one count of possession of a firearm and ammunition 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 one of my office’s top priorities, and thanks to the excellent investigative work of the Gainesville Police Department, with support from our federal law enforcement partners, we have delivered another successful prosecution in this case. Under the leadership of President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Todd Blanche, my office is aggressively prosecuting criminal offenders to ensure our citizens can enjoy the safe, crime-free streets they deserve.” 

Court documents reflect that on May 28, 2026, law enforcement responded to a report that the defendant had pointed a gun at another individual. Through investigation, officers determined the defendant possessed a loaded FMK .40-caliber pistol, despite being legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition because he had been previously convicted of robbery with a weapon and cocaine possession.   

Young faces up to 15 years’ imprisonment on the possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon count.

Young’s sentencing is scheduled for November 23, 2026, at 11:30 a.m. before Chief United States District Allen Winsor at the United States Courthouse in Gainesville, Florida.

The plea was the result of a joint 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 Tyler Fleming.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Keagan Garrett Bohlinger, 26, of Monticello, Florida, pleaded guilty in federal court to 11 counts of production of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography from the internet. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “It is one of my office’s top priorities to target and aggressively prosecute anyone who sexually exploits and victimizes a child. The fact that this defendant served as a public safety officer makes the commission of his heinous crimes even more egregious, and my office will pursue maximum punishment to achieve justice for the minor victim.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant was a Monticello Police Department Officer who sexually abused a young child and produced multiple videos and images of the sexual abuse on three occasions in January 2026. He also possessed videos and images of child pornography downloaded from the internet.

The defendant faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and a maximum of 350 years, which includes up to 30 years per production count, and 20 years for possession, all potentially running consecutively. After his release from prison, the defendant will be a registered sex offender and will be sentenced to supervised release for at least 5 years and up to life.

The case involved an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney James A. McCain.

Sentencing is scheduled for December 11, 2026, at 11:00 am, in the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Mark E. Walker.

This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

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 – James Dalton Bryant, 54, of Tallahassee, Florida, has pleaded guilty in federal court to a single count of bank robbery. The plea was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “This case exemplifies the excellent investigative work of the Tallahassee Police Department to identify, track down, and arrest violent criminals, like this defendant. The safety of our communities is not negotiable, and I am committed to ensuring we aggressively prosecute these crimes to send criminals like this defendant to federal prison.”

Court documents reflect that on June 22, 2026, minutes after opening, a Regions Bank in Tallahassee was robbed by a male who approached a teller with a note demanding cash. The individual was given approximately $3,190 in cash, after which he left the bank. Investigators determined that the robbery suspect, later identified as the defendant, had arrived at the bank as a passenger in a white Mercedes sedan, and after robbing the bank, had fled in the same vehicle. Detectives identified the suspect vehicle and questioned the owners, who were determined to have not been aware of nor involved in the actual robbery. With the aid of information provided by witnesses, as well as through an anonymous Crime Solvers Tip, the defendant was located and arrested. At the time of his arrest, he was found in possession of some of the currency stolen from Regions Bank. When questioned, the defendant confessed to the robbery. 

The defendant faces up to twenty years’ imprisonment. Sentencing is scheduled for December 10, 2026, at 10:00am at the United States Courthouse in Tallahassee before United States District Judge Robert L. Hinkle.            

This case was investigated by the Tallahassee Police Department and Federal Bureau of Investigation. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Eric K. Mountin.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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, Pensacola and Gainesville – Today, United States Attorney John P. Heekin announced 22 new indictments since July 2026 against previously deported illegal aliens for illegal reentry into the United States. Since July, a total of 53 illegal aliens have been convicted of federal immigration crimes in the Northern District of Florida.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Each of these defendants brazenly thought they could violate our nation’s laws with impunity, and that they could lie, cheat, and steal their way into remaining in our country. Wrong. American citizens deserve to live in a country with secure borders and law enforcement officials willing to uphold the laws that keep us safe. My office is answering that call with continued aggressive prosecutions and swift punishments for the criminal illegal aliens caught in the Northern District of Florida, and we will continue to do so until our citizens get the safe, crime-free communities that they deserve.”

According to court records, 53 indicted illegal aliens have been convicted and sentenced since July:

• Jose Guadelupe Escobar, 48, of Nicaragua, who was previously removed in July 2009, was encountered in Leon County on October 22, 2025.
• Romeo Escalon, 44, of Honduras, who was previously removed in January 2012, was encountered in Okaloosa County on February 21, 2026.
• Darlin Alvan-Galdamez, 32, of Honduras, who was previously removed in April 2019, was encountered in Okaloosa County on March 1, 2026.
• Leonel Morales-Gaytan, 33, of Mexico, who was previously removed in March 2020 and April 2022, was encountered in Bay County on April 14, 2026.
• Alex Joel Maldonado-Erazo, 38, of Honduras, who was previously removed in November 2015, was encountered in Okaloosa County on March 20, 2026.
• Cirilo Perez-Michua, 39, of Mexico, who was previously removed twice in March 2009, October 2009, December 2024, and January 2025, was encountered in Walton County on April 22, 2026.
• Jose Barahona-Paz, 27, of Honduras, who was previously removed in September 2019, was encountered in Walton County on April 28, 2026.
• Pascual Hernandez-Shilon, 56, of Mexico, who was previously removed in March 2011, May 2011, October 2019, and November 2019, was encountered in Walton County on April 26, 2026.
• Victor Sanchez Lopez, 30, of Guatemala, who was previously removed in February 2017, was encountered in Okaloosa County on April 21, 2026.
• Jose Patzan-Camey, 28, of Guatemala, who was previously removed in October 2018, was encountered in Santa Rosa County on April 21, 2026.
• Marcelino Mendez-Gomez, age, of Mexico, who was previously removed in August 2013 and October 2019, was encountered in Walton County on May 11, 2026.
• Adelmo Alvardo-Lopez, 55, of Honduras, who was previously removed in February 2018 and May 2018, was encountered in Bay County on May 16, 2026. 
• Juan Ruiz-Jimenez, 31, of Guatemala, who was previously removed in May 2014 and November 2020, was encountered in Bay County on May 4, 2026.
• Irvin Noe Arias Marquez, 28, of Honduras, who was previously removed in April 2021 and February 2024, was encountered in Washington County on February 15, 2026.
• Angel Gabriel Santos-Guerra, 29, of Honduras, who was previously removed in June 2023 and July 2023, was encountered in Bay County on April 20, 2026.
• Andres Antonio Mendez, 34, of Guatemala, who was previously removed in May 2015, August 2015, and December 2015, was encountered in Jackson County on June 11, 2026.
• Ramon Alfredo Solano-Cruz, 36, of Honduras, who was previously removed in October 2012 and February 2019, was encountered in Bay County on May 15, 2026.
• Hugo Angeles-Cruz, 42, of Mexico, who was previously removed in March 2016, was encountered in Bay County on May 18, 2026.
• Josue Orlando Medina-Lira, 35, of Honduras, who was previously removed in August 2009 and February 2023, was encountered in Escambia County on May 17, 2026.
• Denis Eduardo Garache Moncada, 29, of Honduras, who was previously removed in January 2019, was encountered in Bay County on March 20, 2024 and on or about May 28, 2026.
• David Chavez-Lopez, 32, of Guatemala, who was previously removed in November 2018, was encountered in Escambia County on June 9, 2026.
• Javier Bovadillo-Cedillo, 39, of Mexico, who was previously removed in December 2019, was encountered in Bay County on May 12, 2026.
• Santos Martinez-Sadillo, 33, Mexico, who was previously removed in January 2013, was encountered in Bay County on May 12, 2026.
• Jose Hernandez-Coca, 38, of Mexico, who was previously removed in August 2017 and September 2017, was encountered in Bay County on May 11, 2026.
• Edson Saravia-Romero, 45, of Honduras, who was previously removed in May 2008, was encountered in Bay County on May 13, 2026. 
• Fredy Solano-Maldonado, 25, of Honduras, who was previously removed in October 2023, was encountered in Bay County on May 15, 2026.
• Edras Sinaid-Arisandieta, 42, of Guatemala, who was previously removed in May 2006, was encountered in Bay County on June 5, 2026.
• Frederico Ramos-Perez, 27, of Guatemala, who was previously removed in December 2020, was encountered in Jackson County on April 30, 2026.
• Angel Urbina-Meza, 34, of Honduras, who was previously removed in April 2013, was encountered in Bay County on June 19, 2026.
• Osanin Diaz-Cantarero, 46, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Madison County in June 2026, after previously being deported twice in 2019. 
• Saul Alvarado-Hernandez, 30, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2019.
• Rodrigo Quintana-Sanchez, 41, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United Sates illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in June 2026, after previously being deported three times in 2012, once in 2013 and again in 2014. 
• Luis Banos-Guzman, 40, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in July 2026, after previously being deported in 2016. 
• Jose Gomez-Palma, 45, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2012 and 2019. 
• Abelardo de Jesus Gonzalez-Carrilo, 30, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2016. 
• Carlos Jimenez-Martin, 42, of Guatemala, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in July 2026, after previously being deported in 2017. 
• Maria Linares Gonzalez, 47, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in June 2026, after previously being deported twice in 2009. 
• Jose Guillen-Padilla, 36, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in July 2026, after previously being deported in 2020 and 2023. 
• Ever Dias-Portillo, 27, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in July 2026, after previously being deported in 2019. 
• Roman Aguilar-Bedolla, 41, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in August 2026, after previously being deported in 2011. 
• Natalio Espinosa Lopez, 38, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in July 2026, after previously being deported in 2014, 2015, 2017, and 2019. 
• Luis Alonza Garrido Ortiz, 45, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in July 2026, after previously being deported in 2012, 2013, and 2014. 
• Augustin Guerrero-Guerrero, 41, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in August 2026, after previously being deported in 2006, 2012, and 2022. 
• Saul Mendez-Perez, 43, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2018 and twice in 2019.
• Luis Fernando Rivera-Luna, 31, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in July 2026, after previously being deported in 2019. 
• Jeny Paola Ruiz-Pulgarin, 25, of Colombia, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in August 2026, after previously being deported in 2021. 
• Wilson Yony Velasquez-Perez, 28, of Guatemala, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Okaloosa County in August 2026, after previously being deported in 2016. 
• Daniel Martinez Aguilar, 40, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Bay County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2014.
• Daniel Moshan Martinez, 32, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2016.
• Jose Antonio Ovalle-Pichiya, 32, of Guatemala, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Bay County in May 2026, after previously being deported twice in 2014 and again in 2016.
• Salomon Ruiz-Garcia, 35, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Bay County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2015, 2019 and 2025.
• Saul Francisco-Marquez, 40, of Mexico, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in May 2026, after previously being deported in 2012.
• Teodoro Emanuel Marcial-Mayo, 29, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2017.

According to court records, four illegal aliens are currently under indictment and awaiting a trial:

• Melkin Manueles-Vasquez, 26, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Santa Rosa County in July 2026, after previously being deported in 2019. 
• Donato Cazuela-Cazuela, 40, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Lafayette County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2022. Trial is scheduled for October 21, 2026, in Gainesville, Florida.
• Nelson Paz-Alvarenga, 46, of Honduras, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in December 2024, after previously being deported in 2005 and 2010. Trial is scheduled for October 5, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida.
• Ever Paz-Perez, 33, of Guatemala, allegedly reentered the United States illegally and was located in Escambia County in June 2026, after previously being deported in 2012, 2013, and 2024. Sentencing set for September 29, 2026, in Pensacola, Florida.

The penalty for illegally reentering the United States after deportation is a maximum of two years in prison and a $250,000 fine. Cazuela-Cazuela faces a maximum of 20 years in prison and a $250,000 fine pursuant to allegations of prior convictions qualifying for an increased maximum sentence. 

The cases involved investigations by Homeland Security Investigations and Enforcement and Removal Operations with the assistance of the Madison County Sheriff’s Office, Santa Rosa County Sheriff’s Office, Okaloosa County Sheriff’s Office, Escambia County Sheriff’s Office, Florida Highway Patrol, Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, Walton County Sheriff’s Office, Bay County Sheriff’s Office, Pensacola Police Department, Lynn Haven Police Department, Panama City Beach Police Department, and the Milton Police Department. 

Assistant United States Attorneys Tyler Fleming, Alicia H. Forbes, Thomas S.P. Geeker, Brooke Lindsay, James A. McCain, Walter E. Narramore, Joseph A. Ravelo, Emma Schwan, Jeffrey Tharp, and Eric W. Welch prosecuted the cases.

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

This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.

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

Gainesville, Florida – Devin Scott Waldeck, 35, of Cross City, Florida, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for child exploitation and distribution of child pornography. The sentence was announced by John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida. 

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Through Operation Relentless Justice, we continue to identify, target, and take down the sexual predators lurking online who seek to sexually exploit and victimize children. This defendant’s abhorrent crimes deserve severe punishment, and thanks to the successful prosecution by my office he will spend decades in federal prison. My office, and our state and federal law enforcement partners, will continue our relentless pursuit of these sick individuals to ensure our kids are safe, both online and in our communities.”

Court documents reflect that, in November 2025, law enforcement became aware the defendant, posing as the mother of a minor child, was using the online Reddit platform to discuss the sexual exploitation of the minor child.  The defendant offered the minor child to the Reddit user and graphically described ways the user could sexually exploit the minor.  The defendant saved explicit videos and pictures of the minor child in a secret app on his cell phone along with other sexually explicit videos and photos of other named individuals. The defendant had hundreds of communications with other Reddit users discussing sexual “hookups,” including 17 conversations where he stated he either had sexual encounters or wanted to have sexual encounters with minors. 

“Devin Waldeck once wore a badge and was trusted to protect others,” said FBI Jacksonville Special Agent in Charge Jason Carley. “Instead, he chose to engage in the exploitation of a child. Protecting children from dangerous predators who target them online remains one of our top priorities. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who exploit children online and use technology to harm the most vulnerable members of our community.”

The case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Dixie County Sheriff’s Office. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Christie S. Utt. 

This case was a result of Operation Relentless Justice, a coordinated enforcement effort to identify, track and arrest child sex predators. For more information, please visit https://www.justice.gov/usao-edva/pr/justice-department-announces-results-operation-relentless-justice.

These operations underscore the Department’s unwavering commitment to protecting children and combating child sexual exploitation. This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.

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.

Gainesville, Florida – Eddie Jerome Scott, 39, of Gainesville, Florida, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison for distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, distribution of 5 grams or more of methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense, and possession of a firearm 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: “This substantial prison sentence appropriately reflects the severity of the threat posed to our communities by this serial felon’s rampant criminality. Thanks to the successful prosecution by my office his reign of terror is now at an end. President Donald J. Trump and Attorney General Todd Blanche have committed the Department of Justice toward the necessary mission of aggressively enforcing our laws to keep our communities safe, and that is exactly what my office will continue doing until the citizens of my district get the safe, drug-free streets that they deserve.”

Court documents reflect that the defendant sold methamphetamine at his home on two occasions in August and September 2025. A search warrant was executed at the home. Law enforcement seized over 1,232 grams of methamphetamine, 18.5 grams of cocaine, .29 grams of fentanyl, buprenophrine, gabapentin, marijuana, cash, drug paraphernalia, a money counter, and a loaded .22-caliber pistol. The defendant has multiple prior felony convictions including possession of cocaine and sale of a controlled substance, and was legally prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition. 

“This polydrug distributor operated in a college town, preying on young students, among others,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Daniel Escobar, Tampa Field Division. “This armed trafficker dealt in sizeable quantities of methamphetamine, which can destroy communities. Gainesville residents will be safer with this criminal off the streets.”

“Today’s sentencing sends a clear message that those who distribute dangerous drugs and possess firearms while committing crimes will be held accountable,” said Gainesville Police Chief Nelson Moya. 

The case involved an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, and the Gainesville Police Department. The case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Christie Utt and Tyler Fleming.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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 – Quardarell Henry Robinson, 38, of Gainesville, pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute cocaine, cocaine base, and marijuana and possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. John P. Heekin, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Florida, announced the plea.

U.S. Attorney Heekin said: “Thanks to the excellent investigative work of our federal law enforcement partners, and this successful prosecution by my office, this armed drug trafficker has been taken off our streets. Anyone peddling drugs and violence in my district will face the full might of the Department of Justice.”

Court documents reflect that in February 2026, the defendant threw a handbag and a loaded pistol outside of his vehicle while attempting to evade law enforcement. The handbag was recovered and found to contain over 140 grams of cocaine, cocaine base, individually packaged marijuana bags, other baggies, and an electronic scale.  Law enforcement also recovered a handgun in the area where defendant’s vehicle had stopped, which had been captured by nearby commercial business surveillance cameras.  Later, a search warrant was executed at the defendant’s residence, where law enforcement recovered a loaded handgun and cookware that contained cocaine base. 

Robinson faces a minimum of five years’ imprisonment, and up to life imprisonment. 

Sentencing is scheduled before Chief United States District Judge Allen C. Winsor, in Gainesville, Florida, on November 23, 2026, at 10:30 a.m.

The plea was the result of a joint investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Adam Hapner and James McCain.

Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.

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.