District of Idaho
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Former Commander and Adjutant of Nonprofit Veteran’s Organization Indicted for Wire Fraud and Tax FraudRead the Press Release
BOISE – A federal grand jury in Boise returned an indictment charging Charles Thomas Abrahamson, 56, of Venice, Florida, with charges of wire fraud and tax fraud, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today.
According to the Indictment, between approximately 2017 and 2024, Abrahamson was employed by a nonprofit veteran’s organization with a department in Idaho, and he served in various capacities, including adjutant and commander. In those capacities, Abrahamson had access to and control of the nonprofit’s financial accounts. The Indictment alleges that beginning in approximately 2018 until approximately April 2024, Abrahamson knowingly devised a scheme to defraud the nonprofit and another individual. As alleged in the Indictment, Abrahamson made transfers to his personal financial accounts, payments to his personal credit cards, unauthorized expenses, and ATM withdrawals, from the nonprofit’s financial accounts, all for his own personal use and gain.
As also alleged in the Indictment, Abrahamson filed false tax returns for the years 2020, 2022, and 2023, which falsely stated his total income.
The Indictment contains a forfeiture allegation, which alleges that Abrahamson obtained and controlled at least $1,454,025 in unrecovered forfeitable property from the wire fraud charges.
If convicted, Abrahamson faces up to 20 years in federal prison for wire fraud, and up to three years in prison for tax fraud. He also faces restitution for the losses incurred by the victims of the scheme. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Davis made the announcement and commended the excellent work of the Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, which led to the charges. Assistant United States Attorney Sean Mazorol is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Two Men Sentenced to Federal Prison in Separate Drug Cases Investigated by the BADGES Task ForceRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced the results of two separate drug distribution cases in eastern Idaho today. Both cases were investigated by the BADGES Task Force, which is a HIDTA-funded task force that includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pocatello Police Department, the Idaho State Police, the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, and the Chubbuck Police Department.
In the first case, Tamrik Paul Day, 27, of Spokane, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court records, Day distributed methamphetamine through the mail in January and February 2024. On January 30, 2024, Day sold 27 grams of methamphetamine to another person. On February 15, 2024, Day sold 55 grams of methamphetamine to another person. On both occasions Day used the mail to send the methamphetamine, and the purchaser paid Day through a mobile peer-to-peer financial platform.
U.S. Chief District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Day to serve four years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Day pleaded guilty to the charges in September 2025.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the Idaho State Police, who led the investigation on behalf of the BADGES Task Force, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, who assisted in the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted this case.
In a separate and unrelated case, Jessie Kim Mitchell, 64, of Pingree, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court records, Mitchell sold methamphetamine to another person on three occasions in November 2024. On November 6, 2024, Mitchell sold 6 grams of methamphetamine. On November 15, 2024, Mitchell sold 52 grams of methamphetamine. On November 26, 2024, Mitchell sold 101 grams of methamphetamine. Mitchell was previously convicted of delivery of a controlled substance in Bingham County in 1995.
U.S. Chief District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Mitchell to serve 5 years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Mitchell pleaded guilty to the charge in June 2025.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the Idaho State Police, who led the investigation on behalf of the BADGES Task Force, for their investigation which led to the charges in this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted this case.
These cases were handled by the U.S. Attorney Office’s specially deputized Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA), funded by the Eastern Idaho Partnership (EIP) and the State of Idaho. The EIP is a coalition of local city and county officials in eastern Idaho as well as the Idaho Department of Correction.
The EIP SAUSA program allows law enforcement to utilize the federal criminal justice system – through the EIP SAUSA – to prosecute, convict, and sentence violent, armed criminals and drug traffickers. These criminals often receive stiffer penalties than they might in state courts.
This program was created in January 2016. Since that time, approximately 253 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 190 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 12,187 months (approximately 1,015.58 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 48.16 months (4.01 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 53.25 months (4.44 years) in federal prison.
These cases were investigated through the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multiagency drug enforcement initiatives, including the BADGES Task Force.
The BADGES Task Force is a collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies that focuses primarily on drug trafficking in Bannock County and throughout the region.
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Two Challis Men Sentenced for Lacey Act ViolationsRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Jerrod Randall Farr, 54, and Michael Timothy Scott, 68, both of Challis, Idaho, were sentenced in United States District Court for the District of Idaho, for Lacey Act wildlife violations, U.S. Attorney Bart Davis announced today.
In 2024, Farr, a licensed outfitter (White Cloud Outfitters) and licensed guide, was indicted on five counts: two counts of Lacy Act violations, two counts of providing false or fictitious information to a Forest Service officer, and one count of conducting work activity without a special-use authorization. Scott, a former licensed outfitter (White Cloud Outfitters) and current licensed guide, was indicted on two counts of Lacey Act violations.
According to court records, Farr pleaded guilty to one Class A misdemeanor count of violating the Lacey Act on June 23, 2025, and Scott pleaded guilty to one Class A misdemeanor Lacey Act count, each charged by superseding information. Farr, owner and outfitter for White Cloud Outfitters, sold and facilitated Rocky Mountain Big Horn Sheep hunts that occurred in an area of the Salmon-Challis National Forest that is closed to commercial guiding, and Scott, as a guide for White Cloud Outfitters, illegally guided those hunts. Bighorn sheep were transported to Idaho, Utah, and Alaska.
On November 6, 2025, Farr was sentenced to two years of probation, during which he is prohibited from hunting, accompanying hunters in the field, outfitting or guiding hunters, or profiting from outfitting or guiding hunters. Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Farr pay a fine of $9,500, payable to the Lacey Act Reward Fund, and $15,000 in restitution, payable to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game. On November 24, 2025, Scott was sentenced to four years of probation, during which he is prohibited from hunting, accompanying hunters in the field, outfitting or guiding hunters, or profiting from outfitting or guiding hunters. Judge Nye also ordered Scott to pay a fine of $9,500, payable to the Lacey Act Reward Fund, and $15,000 in restitution, payable to the Idaho Department of Fish and Game.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and Idaho Fish and Game, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Justin Paskett and Christian Nafzger prosecuted the case.
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Former City Clerk / Treasurer Sentenced to Prison for Stealing over $196,000 from the City of New PlymouthRead the Press Release
BOISE – Danielle Painter, 41, of Emmett, Idaho, was sentenced to 15 months in federal prison for stealing over $196,000 from the City of New Plymouth, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today.
According to court records, Danielle Painter was employed as the City Clerk / Treasurer for the City of New Plymouth from 2012 to 2023. As the City Clerk / Treasurer, Painter was responsible for performing various accounting functions, including recording and coding of credit card charges in the accounting system, issuing electronic credit card payments, and retaining credit card statements.
Between 2017 and 2023, Painter devised a scheme to defraud the City of New Plymouth by using City of New Plymouth credit cards for unauthorized personal expenses. The unauthorized personal expenses included retail purchases, restaurants, clothing, travel, concerts, utility and rent, and medical expenses. In total, Painter made $196,947.87 in unauthorized charges using City of New Plymouth credit cards between 2017 and 2023. To hide her scheme, Painter entered many of the expenses as professional services in the City of New Plymouth’s internal accounting system.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Painter to serve three years of supervised release following her prison sentence and ordered Painter to pay $196,947.87 in restitution.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Idaho State Police, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Mazorol prosecuted this case.
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United States Attorney Announces Federal Prison Sentences in Recent Federal Firearms CasesRead the Press Release
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Bart Davis announced the results of four separate firearm prosecution cases today.
“As these cases demonstrate, my office will work with all of our law enforcement partners to vigorously enforce federal firearms laws and keep firearms out of the hands of dangerous criminals,” said U.S. Attorney Davis.
- Council Man Sentenced to 6 Years for Unlawfully Possessing an AR-15 Rifle
In one case, Andrew James Solver, 42, of Council, was sentenced to 72 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Solver to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
According to court records, on January 28, 2025, a Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Ranger patrolling north of Emmett discovered an illegal campsite on public lands. When the Ranger attempted to contact a man at the campsite, the man fled. Through an investigation, the Ranger identified the man as Andrew James Solver. The Ranger also learned that Solver had an outstanding felony warrant and was in violation of his state parole. When the Ranger returned to the area with additional law enforcement officers, Solver was arrested, and officers found an AR-15 rifle. Solver admitted that he unlawfully possessed the rifle, which he had stolen during a burglary of a residence in Gem County.
Solver was prohibited from possessing firearms because of his six prior felony convictions including burglary and possession of controlled substances.
"The Bureau of Land Management is proud to work alongside the U.S. Attorney’s Office to uphold the law and protect our public lands,” said Becky Andres, BLM Office of Law Enforcement and Security Special Agent in Charge of Region 2. “This successful prosecution contributes to a safer, more secure community.”
U.S. Attorney Davis thanked the Bureau of Land Management Office of Law Enforcement and Security, Bureau of Land Management Rangers, Idaho Fish and Game, and Gem County Sheriff’s Office for their collaboration in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Booker prosecuted the case.
- Nampa Man Sentenced to 18 Months in Prison for Unlawfully Possessing a Handgun
In a separate case, Francisco Javier Burgos, 20, of Nampa, was sentenced to 18 months in federal prison for the unlawful possession of a firearm. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford ordered Burgos to serve three years of supervised release following his release from prison.
According to court records, on January 2, 2025, a Nampa police officer attempted to contact Burgos who was in a park after hours. Burgos fled into a nearby neighborhood where he was arrested after attempting to hide a loaded handgun. Burgos, a documented gang member, was prohibited from possessing firearms because of his prior conviction for a misdemeanor crime of domestic violence.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Nampa Police Department and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Chris Booker prosecuted this case.
- Boise Man Sentenced to 30 Months in Prison for Possession of Short-Barreled Rifles.
In another case, Christopher Hayman, 39, of Boise, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for the possession of unregistered short-barreled rifles. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford ordered Hayman to serve three years of supervised release following his conviction.
According to court records, in the summer of 2024, Hayman purchased over 30 firearms from a licensed firearm store. At the time of the purchase, he was prohibited from possessing firearms due to a civil domestic violence protection order from California. Hayman was also on pretrial diversion in a domestic violence case in Washington.
The ATF subsequently searched Hayman’s residence pursuant to a search warrant. In his home, agents found numerous firearms, to include two short-barreled rifles, one of which was a privately made firearm, also known as a ghost gun. Hayman had not registered either firearm with the National Firearms Registration and Transfer Record. Agents also located a 20-round drum and an extended magazine. Hayman admitted that he knew the California protection order prohibited him from possessing firearms.
“Illegal firearm possession endangers our community and undermines the safety we work hard to protect. ATF is determined to ensure those who choose to break the law face the consequences of their actions, and this sentence shows our commitment to holding those offenders accountable,” said Eric Jackson, ATF’s Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Seattle Field Division.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended ATF for their work on the investigation. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Manweiler prosecuted this case.
- Mexican National Sentenced to 60 Months for Unlawful Possession of a Firearm.
Jesus Cuevas, 36, of Mexico, was sentenced on November 13, 2025, to 60 months in prison for unlawfully possessing a firearm. Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered him to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
According to court records, on January 3, 2024, Cuevas possessed two firearms, one of which was a short-barreled rifle. After being federally indicted for unlawful possession of a firearm, Cuevas was released from custody. While on release, Cuevas was driving a truck that was stopped by law enforcement for traffic violations. Officers searched the truck and found a loaded firearm in the center console.
Cuevas was prohibited from possessing the firearms due to his prior felony conviction for burglary. Upon completion of his prison sentence, Cuevas, an alien born in Mexico and without legal authority to be in the United States, will likely be deported back to Mexico.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Nampa Police Department and the ATF, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Dave Morse and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Manweiler prosecuted this case.
The Hayman and Cuevas cases were prosecuted by a Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth.
These cases are part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Former President and Chief Operating Officer of Public Company Pleads Guilty to Insider TradingRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON – An Idaho executive pleaded guilty to insider trading on the basis of material nonpublic information about an impending corporate acquisition.
According to court documents, Michael Smith, 48, of Eagle, Idaho, served as the President and Chief Operating Officer of Company-1 since in or around June 2022. Company-1 was based in Idaho, and its shares were publicly traded on NASDAQ.
By at least June 2024, by virtue of his position at Company-1, Smith received material nonpublic information (MNPI) regarding the impending acquisition of Company-1 by another company. Smith was subject to Company-1’s Insider Trading Policy that, among other things, prohibited employees from trading in Company-1’s stock if an employee possessed MNPI.
On July 26, 2024, Smith bought Company-1 stock using a brokerage account belonging to Individual-A. Smith and Individual-A had a close personal relationship. Smith executed these trades on the basis of MNPI about the impending acquisition of Company-1 despite knowing that he was prohibited from trading Company-1 stock.
On August 7, 2024, news of Company-1’s acquisition became public, and Company-1’s stock increased by nearly 50%. The next day, Smith sold the Company-1 stock he had purchased for Individual-A for a profit of approximately $145,754.69. Smith executed the trades to financially benefit Individual-A.
Smith pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis for the District of Idaho; and Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group (USPIS-CI) made the announcement.
USPIS-CI is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Kyle Crawford and John Liolos of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Mazorol for the District of Idaho are prosecuting the case.
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Former President and Chief Operating Officer of Public Company Pleads Guilty to Insider TradingRead the Press Release
An Idaho executive pleaded guilty to insider trading on the basis of material nonpublic information about an impending corporate acquisition.
According to court documents, Michael Smith, 48, of Eagle, Idaho, served as the President and Chief Operating Officer of Company-1 since in or around June 2022. Company-1 was based in Idaho, and its shares were publicly traded on NASDAQ.
By at least June 2024, by virtue of his position at Company-1, Smith received material nonpublic information (MNPI) regarding the impending acquisition of Company-1 by another company. Smith was subject to Company-1’s Insider Trading Policy that, among other things, prohibited employees from trading in Company-1’s stock if an employee possessed MNPI.
On July 26, 2024, Smith bought Company-1 stock using a brokerage account belonging to Individual-A. Smith and Individual-A had a close personal relationship. Smith executed these trades on the basis of MNPI about the impending acquisition of Company-1 despite knowing that he was prohibited from trading Company-1 stock.
On Aug. 7, 2024, news of Company-1’s acquisition became public, and Company-1’s stock increased by nearly 50%. The next day, Smith sold the Company-1 stock he had purchased for Individual-A for a profit of approximately $145,754.69. Smith executed the trades to financially benefit Individual-A.
Smith pleaded guilty to one count of securities fraud. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis for the District of Idaho; and Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group (USPIS-CI) made the announcement.
USPIS-CI is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Kyle Crawford and John Liolos of the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean Mazorol for the District of Idaho are prosecuting the case.
Caldwell Couple Sentenced to 120 and 70 Months in Federal Prison for Drug CrimeRead the Press Release
BOISE – Ray Gordon Capistrant, 57, and Patricia Lynn Webber a/k/a Patricia Lynn Capistrant, 56, both of Caldwell, were sentenced to 120 months and 70 months, respectively, in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Bart Davis announced today.
According to court records, in December of 2024, the Idaho State Police began investigating the Caldwell couple for distributing methamphetamine in the Treasure Valley. On four occasions from December 2024, and through January 2025, a confidential source purchased methamphetamine from Webber at the couple’s shared residence. During two of these occasions Capistrant was present nearby in the residence.
On February 8, 2025, the Idaho State Police executed a search warrant at Capistrant and Webber’s shared residence along with a rental vehicle that they had used to go to Arizona to purchase methamphetamine. In the trunk of the rental vehicle, law enforcement found 22 heat-sealed bags that contained methamphetamine wrapped in tinfoil. The combined weight of the methamphetamine in the 22 heat-sealed bags was approximately 9,847.7 grams. In the shared residence, law enforcement also found additional methamphetamine and various drug paraphernalia including multiple scales and plastic bags.
In total, Capistrant and Webber possessed 10,839.55 grams—approximately 24 pounds—of methamphetamine that they intended to distribute to others.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Idaho State Police which led to the charges. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kane Venecia prosecuted the cases.
This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office with funds provided by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney position.
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Nampa Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Attempting to Produce Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOISE – William Walls, 52, of Nampa, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison for attempted sexual exploitation of a child, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today.
According to court records, Walls used his cellphone to surreptitiously record three female children in the bathroom of his apartment. Walls was babysitting the victims at the time. The video captured one of the children showering and the other two children changing their clothes. Walls was convicted of three counts of attempted sexual exploitation of a child following a jury trial in May of this year.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Walls to serve ten years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Walls will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of his conviction.
“Our office remains steadfastly committed to protecting Idaho’s children from abuse and exploitation,” U.S. Attorney Davis said. “I am grateful for our partnership with local agencies like the Nampa Police Department. We are united in our efforts to hold sexual offenders accountable and bring justice to victims.”
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of Nampa Police Department, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kassandra McGrady and Erin Blackadar prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Cocaine Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – William Charles Jones, 34, of St. Louis, Missouri, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for his involvement in the distribution of cocaine in Idaho, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today.
According to court records, Jones was a high-volume cocaine distributor in the treasure valley. He would travel to Missouri to purchase kilos of cocaine, ship the cocaine to himself at a residence in Idaho, and then distribute the cocaine into the community through several mid-level distributors. On one occasion, Jones traveled to Canada, purchased two kilos of cocaine, and shipped it to himself in Idaho. Through the efforts of Customs and Border Protection and the Drug Enforcement Administration, that shipment was seized at the U.S./Canadian border.
After his indictment, investigators executed a federal search warrant at his residence and located a workstation in his garage consisting of a scale, packaging material, and a heat sealer. Investigators also found one and a half kilos of cocaine in brick form, an additional five one-ounce bundles of cocaine, several psilocybin mushrooms bars, and sixteen unlawfully possessed firearms strategically placed throughout the residence to afford him quick access to a firearm in the event he needed to protect his drugs or illicit proceeds.
U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Jones to serve four years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Boise Police Department, the Meridian Police Department, Customs and Border Protection, and the United States Postal Inspection Service, which led to the charges and arrest. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
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Post Falls Man Indicted for Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials, and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialsRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – A federal grand jury in Coeur d’Alene returned an indictment today charging Zachary Dean Perpinan, 26, with Sexual Exploitation of a Child, Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials, and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse Materials, U.S. Attorney Bart Davis announced today.
According to court records, the investigation began with a Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), undercover operation on the dark web. During the operation, investigators identified an individual who was posting images of child sexual abuse material on the dark web. In some online postings, the individual wrote that the child was five years old, and in other posts, the individual wrote that the child was six years old. Investigators traced the source of the images to the Defendant’s residence in Post Falls, Idaho.
Working alongside the Post Falls Police Department, HSI executed a federal search warrant at the Defendant’s residence on October 10, 2025. They found the Defendant and a six-year-old girl at the residence. Law enforcement removed the Defendant and arrested him. They also seized multiple electronic devices from the Defendant’s residence and determined that they contained numerous child sexual abuse materials, including several images and videos of the six-year-old child.
If convicted, Perpinan faces a minimum of 15 and a maximum of 30 years in federal prison for Sexual Exploitation of a Child, a minimum of 5 and a maximum of 20 years in prison for Distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Materials, and a maximum of 20 years in prison for Possession of Child Sexual Abuse materials. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Davis made the announcement and commended the excellent work of the Post Falls Police Department and the Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, which led to the charges.
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 the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) of the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Coeur d’Alene Man Pleads Guilty to Attempting to Provide Material Support to ISISRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Alexander Scott Mercurio, 20, of Coeur d’Alene, pleaded guilty today, to Attempt to Provide Material Support and Resources to a Designated Foreign Terrorist Organization, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced.
According to court records, Mercurio pledged his allegiance to ISIS and intended to commit an attack in Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, on its behalf. In early 2023, he created an online repository for pro-ISIS content with the purpose of spreading the doctrine of the Islamic State. Although Mercurio desired to travel overseas to support ISIS, he lacked resources. He then made plans to conduct a terrorist attack within the United States. Mercurio planned to target churches in Coeur d’Alene on April 7, 2024, using various weapons. Mercurio purchased items to support his planned attack. Days before the planned attack, Mercurio stood before an ISIS flag holding a knife and pledged his allegiance to ISIS. The FBI arrested him on April 6, 2024, one day before his planned April 7, 2024 attack.
Sentencing is set for January 27, 2026, before Chief District Judge David C. Nye. Mercurio faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in federal prison.
U.S. Attorney Bart Davis commended the investigation by the FBI with valuable assistance provided by the Coeur d’Alene Police Department, the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, and the Ada County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Heather S. Patricco and David G. Robins for the District of Idaho and attorneys from the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section, are prosecuting this case.
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Payette Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOISE – Heath Adams, 43, of Payette, was sentenced to 30 years in federal prison for sexual exploitation of a child, U.S. Attorney Bart M. Davis announced today.
According to court records, the investigation into Adams began in August 2024, after a report was made to the Payette Police Department regarding allegations of sexual abuse. As part of the investigation, Adams’ cell phone was seized and forensically examined by the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (“ICAC”). The ICAC examiner located numerous files of child sexual abuse material that Adams had produced over several years, including explicit images of himself sexually abusing three separate minors.
Adams was initially arrested and charged in Payette County. After his arrest, the Payette County Prosecutor’s Office and the U.S. Attorney’s Office worked collaboratively to determine federal prosecution was appropriate. As a result, the state case was dismissed in favor of federal prosecution.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also sentenced Adams to lifetime supervised release and ordered him to pay restitution to his victims. Adams will be required to register as a sex offender because of the conviction. Adams pleaded guilty in federal court on June 3, 2025.
“There is no greater betrayal than the sexual abuse and exploitation of children,” said U.S. Attorney Davis. “We are steadfast in our commitment to work with state and local law enforcement partners to seek justice for child victims and hold child predators accountable for their egregious conduct.”
U.S. Attorney Davis commended the cooperative efforts of the Payette Police Department, the Payette County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the Idaho ICAC Task Force, which led to the charges.
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 the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS) of the Department of Justice, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Blackadar prosecuted the case.
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Bart M. Davis is Sworn in as United States AttorneyRead the Press Release
Boise – Bart M. Davis has taken the oath of office to become the United States Attorney for the District of Idaho. Davis was nominated by President Donald J. Trump on March 31, 2025 and confirmed by the U.S. Senate on October 7, 2025. Mr. Davis served as the United States Attorney for the District of Idaho from September 21, 2017 to February 28, 2021, under President Trumps first term.
As U.S. Attorney, Davis is the top-ranking federal law enforcement official in the state of Idaho, having prosecutorial responsibility over 44 counties in Idaho, encompassing more than 83,000 square miles and a population of nearly 1.5 million people. He leads three staffed offices located in Boise, Coeur d’Alene and Pocatello with 65 employees, including 33 attorneys. The office is responsible for prosecuting federal crimes in the district, including crimes related to immigration, terrorism, public corruption, child exploitation, firearms, and narcotics. The office also defends the United States in civil cases and collects debts owed to the United States.
Mr. Davis was born in Rapid City, South Dakota, and was raised in Idaho Falls, Idaho, where he began his legal practice focusing on commercial, regulatory, and transactional work. He also served in the Idaho State Senate for the past 19 years, including as Majority Leader for 15 years, and was a member of the Judiciary and Rules and the State Affairs committees. He represented Idaho as a commissioner to the Uniform Law Commission and is past chairman of The Council of State Governments. He graduated from Brigham Young University in 1978 and from the University of Idaho College of Law in 1980. Mr. Davis is married, has six children and 14 grandchildren.
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Nigerian Man Extradited to the U.S. After being Indicted for Sextortion and other Fraud SchemesRead the Press Release
BOISE – Acting United States Attorney Justin Whatcott announced that Olamide Shanu, 34, of Lagos, Nigeria, made his initial appearance yesterday after his extradition to the United States from the United Kingdom. Shanu faces prosecution in an indictment for his role in several cyber-enabled schemes including “sextortion” and romance scams. Shanu made his initial appearance yesterday before U.S. Magistrate Juge Debora K. Grasham.
Shanu is charged in an eight-count indictment with wire fraud conspiracy, aggravated identity theft, conspiracy to commit interstate communications with intent to extort and cyberstalking, conspiracy to commit extortion, money laundering conspiracy, extortion, interstate communications with intent to commit extortion, and cyberstalking. Authorities in London arrested Shanu in the United Kingdom on November 7, 2023, based on the indictment filed in the District of Idaho. Shanu has remained incarcerated since the arrest.
According to the indictment, Shanu and his conspirators posed as females on social media and persuaded their victims, typically males, to send sexual images of themselves. The indictment alleges that once the victims sent the explicit images, the conspirators threatened to send the explicit images to the victims’ friends and families unless the victim paid money. The indictment alleges that the conspirators engaged in this extortion of numerous victims across the United States, including a college student in Idaho. The indictment alleges the conspirators also perpetrated, among other cyber-enabled schemes, a romance scam scheme. Proceeds from the schemes were allegedly laundered using peer-to-peer payment applications and several cryptocurrency wallet addresses before allegedly being transferred to the scheme’s perpetrators in Nigeria. According to the indictment, Shanu fraudulently obtained at least $2,000,000 from the fraud schemes.
If convicted of the charges, Shanu faces up to 20 years in federal prison. He also faces restitution for the losses incurred by the victims of the scheme.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott thanked the U.S. Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs (OIA) and the U.S. State Department for their help in facilitating the arrest and extradition of Shanu. Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott also extends his appreciation and thanks to the National Extradition Unit of the United Kingdon’s National Crime Agency, who provided critical assistance with the arrest and extradition of Shanu.
The case was investigated by the United States Secret Service and the Boise Police Department and is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Brittney Campbell and Sean Mazorol and Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) Trial Attorney Vasantha Rao.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Idaho Husband and Wife and Three Others Charged with Conspiracy to Commit Wire Fraud and Related ChargesRead the Press Release
Two defendants made their initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate judge last week after a federal grand jury in Boise, Idaho, returned an indictment charging five individuals with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and related charges for submitting false tax returns and fictious financial instruments to the IRS. The other three defendants had previously made their initial appearances in federal court in Boise.
The following is according to the indictment: from 2023 through 2024, Andrea and Kent Shannon, of Kuna, Idaho, as well as Brittany Plahm, of Frankfort, Illinois, Monika Skinger of Chicago, and Sherita Chandler, of Port St. Lucie, Florida, allegedly conspired together to submit false individual and trust tax returns that claimed millions in refunds to which they were not entitled. To induce the IRS to accept their refund claims, the defendants and others allegedly sent more than 100 fictitious financial instruments — such as checks, money orders, or payment vouchers — totaling approximately $57 million to the IRS to make it appear that they had paid taxes that could be refunded.
The indictment further alleges that Andrea and Kent Shannon used a portion of the false refunds they received to purchase, among other things, a $90,000 Cadillac Escalade and a $144,000 GMC Sierra 3500.
All defendants were charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Andrea and Kent Shannon were also charged with wire fraud and filing false claims. Finally, Kent Shannon was also charged with money laundering.
If convicted, the defendants face a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for the conspiracy charge. Andrea and Kent Shannon face an additional maximum penalty of 20 years in prison for each wire fraud charge and a maximum penalty of five years in prison for each false claim charge. Kent Shannon faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison for the money laundering charge. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
IRS Criminal Investigations is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney David F. Scollan of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Brittney Campbell for the District of Idaho are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Drug Dealers from Montana Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Carson Lee Maynard, 49, of Livingston, Montana, was sentenced to 180 months in federal prison, and Amy Marie Tillman, 43, of Lewistown, Montana, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison. The two were sentenced for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. They were also ordered to forfeit to the government a residence in Livingston Montana because they used it to commit the offense.
According to court records, in the early morning hours an Idaho State Police Trooper stopped a vehicle that Maynard and Tillman were traveling in because of a window tint violation. When police searched the vehicle, they discovered 5 pounds of methamphetamine and 3,000 fentanyl pills in a spare tire in the trunk of the vehicle. Maynard and Tillman were travelling back to Montana from New Mexico and Las Vegas after receiving large amounts of methamphetamine and fentanyl. Maynard and Tillman admitted they conspired to return to Montana where they would sell the methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Maynard was previously convicted in federal court for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the District of Montana.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Maynard to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Tillman was also ordered to serve three years of supervised release following her prison sentence. Both defendants pleaded guilty to the charge in May 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the U.S. Marshals Service, the Idaho State Police, the Missouri River Drug Task Force-HIDTA (Montana), and the Montana Highway Patrol. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted this case.
This case was handled by the U.S. Attorney Office’s specially deputized Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA), funded by the Eastern Idaho Partnership (EIP) and the State of Idaho. The EIP is a coalition of local city and county officials in eastern Idaho as well as the Idaho Department of Correction.
The EIP SAUSA program allows law enforcement to utilize the federal criminal justice system – through the EIP SAUSA – to prosecute, convict, and sentence violent, armed criminals and drug traffickers. These criminals often receive stiffer penalties than they might in state courts.
This program was created in January 2016. Since that time, approximately 247 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 185 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 12,090 months (approximately 1,000.58 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 83.38 months (6.95 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 69.43 months (5.78 years) in federal prison.
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Two Women and One Man Sentenced to Federal Prison in Separate Methamphetamine Trafficking CasesRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced the results of three separate drug distribution cases in eastern Idaho today.
In one case, Andrea Nichole O’Brien, 38, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 70 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others. After law enforcement officers stopped O’Brien for a traffic violation, a dog, which was trained and certified to detect the odor of illegal drugs, alerted to the odor of narcotics in the vehicle. During a search, police officers located 106.3 grams of methamphetamine under the driver seat and a loaded Glock 43 handgun in the driver’s door.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered O’Brien to serve five years of supervised release following her prison sentence. O’Brien pleaded guilty to the charge in May 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the Pocatello Police Department for their investigation that led to the charges in this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted this case.
In the second case, Curtis Lee Campbell, 40, of American Falls, was sentenced to 143 months in federal prison for the distribution of methamphetamine. According to court records, in April and June 2024, Campbell sold methamphetamine to another person on three occasions in eastern Idaho. The first sale consisted of 7.24 grams, the second 27.23 grams, and the third was 28.62 grams, totaling 63.09 grams of methamphetamine. At sentencing, the Court determined that Campbell was a career offender because he had at least two prior felony convictions for controlled substance offenses.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Campbell to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Campbell pleaded guilty to the charge in May 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the Pocatello Police Department, the Idaho State Police, the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration for their investigation which led to the charges in this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted this case.
In the third case, Jessica Dona Elison, 44, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others. According to court records, Elison traveled to Mexico or Arizona to get methamphetamine from her supplier. Bingham County Sheriff’s detectives were granted a search warrant to place a tracking device on the vehicle that Elison was driving. Detectives observed her vehicle coming back to Idaho. After Elison’s vehicle broke down in Pocatello, she moved the methamphetamine from her vehicle to another vehicle. During a search of that vehicle, officers found a bag that contained 281.53 grams of methamphetamine and 68.5 grams of marijuana.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Elison to serve five years of supervised release following her prison sentence. Elison pleaded guilty to the charge in May 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the Bingham County Sheriff’s Office, and the BADGES Task Force, which is a HIDTA-funded task force that includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pocatello Police Department, the Idaho State Police, the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, and the Chubbuck Police Department, for their investigation which led to the charges in this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted this case.
These cases were handled by the U.S. Attorney Office’s specially deputized Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA), funded by the Eastern Idaho Partnership (EIP) and the State of Idaho. The EIP is a coalition of local city and county officials in eastern Idaho.
The EIP SAUSA program allows law enforcement to utilize the federal criminal justice system – through the EIP SAUSA – to prosecute, convict, and sentence violent, armed criminals and drug traffickers. These criminals often receive stiffer penalties than they might in state courts.
This program was created in January 2016. Since that time, approximately 247 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 185 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 11,910 months (approximately 985.58 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 82.13 months (6.84 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 68.18 months (5.68 years) in federal prison.
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Government Contractor Agrees to Pay $3.1 Million to Resolve Alleged Violations of the False Claims ActRead the Press Release
BOISE – Sanford Federal, Inc. and its owner, Joseph Mandour, agreed to pay $3,100,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act in their acquisition and performance of 49 government contracts across the United States and involving multiple Federal agencies.
The United States alleged that Sanford and Mandour violated the False Claims Act by knowingly misrepresenting the identities of individuals alleged to be employees, using unknown persons and fraudulent credentials to sweeten their contract bids, and misrepresenting Sanford’s size to acquire set-aside contracts in violation of Small Business Administrative rules. The United States also alleged that Sanford and Mandour acquired a service-disabled veteran owned small business set-aside contract and then knowingly violated a limitation on subcontracting that required such contracts to be performed by service-disabled veteran owned small businesses.
“Government contractors are important partners that help us achieve our various government missions. But misrepresentations in bids undermine the integrity of the bid process and deprive legitimate businesses of the opportunity to compete for government contracts,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott. “We will continue to protect the right of small businesses and service-disabled veteran owned businesses to obtain government contracts without being undermined by fraudulent bid practices.”
“This settlement demonstrates that the VA OIG will actively investigate fraud allegations involving VA contracts that are set aside for service-disabled veterans,” said Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov of the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northwest Field Office. “The VA OIG thanks the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement partners for their efforts in this case.”
“Lying to the government undermines the trust and integrity essential to fair competition in our country,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Philip C. Mazzella of the Department of Commerce OIG. “If these lies go unchecked, our ability to effectively monitor and operate vital government programs in the United States will be significantly weakened. To hold these bad actors accountable, Commerce OIG along with our federal partners, will continue to aggressively pursue and investigate allegations of false certifications made by government contractors.”
“When unscrupulous individuals manipulate programs intended to support small businesses, they undermine trust, weaken competition, and deny opportunities to honest business owners,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher W. Dillard of the DoD Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Mid-Atlantic Field Office. “DCIS stands with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our investigative law enforcement partners to root out fraud and hold accountable those who prey on Federal programs.”
This matter was investigated jointly by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho, the United States Department of Veterans Affairs, the United States Department of Commerce, the United States Air Force, the United States Army, and the United States Department of Defense. Additional assistance was provided by the Small Business Administration and the General Services Administration. Assistants United States Attorney Elliot Wertheim and Robert Firpo handled the investigation.
The claims resolved by the settlement against Sanford Federal, Inc. and Joseph Mandour, are allegations only and there has been no admission or determination of liability.
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Gang Member Sentenced to over 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Tobias Leary, 44, of Caldwell, was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine and unlawfully possessing a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Leary to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
According to court records, Leary, a known gang member, was distributing methamphetamine out of his property. In July of 2024, the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crime Task Force (METRO) executed a search warrant at Leary’s property and located methamphetamine, fentanyl, and several firearms. At sentencing Judge Brailsford noted the dangerous combination of guns, drugs, and gangs. Leary has an extensive criminal history to include a prior federal felony for unlawful possession of a firearm.
“For twenty years, the Metro Task Force has successfully dismantled gangs, removing dangerous criminals, along with their drugs and firearms, from our streets,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott. “This is yet another example of their outstanding work to protect the Treasure Valley from the violence, drug trafficking, and lawlessness committed by gang members.”
“When drugs, gangs, and illegal firearms intersect, the results can be destructive and deadly,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the Salt Lake City FBI. “Mr. Leary's sentence is indicative of the success achieved when law enforcement pools expertise and resources. For 20 years, the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crime Task Force has been relentlessly pursing those who threaten our community’s safety.”
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey A. Manweiler prosecuted the case.
The Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force is comprised of federal, state, and local agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation; Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; United States Postal Inspector Services; Caldwell Police Department; Canyon County Sheriff’s Office; and Idaho Department of Correction.
This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. For more information, visit www.treasurevalleypartners.org.
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Rigby Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Caleb Sickinger, 45, of Rigby, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison for receiving child pornography Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, in November 2023, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) agents in Alabama arrested an individual on charges of coercion and enticement and possession of child pornography. In a post-arrest interview, the individual told FBI agents that he had received images of child pornography from a “woman” in Idaho. His communications with the “woman” revealed her name and included images of her. FBI agents in Idaho received this information and began an investigation. Agents identified the “woman” and also identified the child depicted in the child pornography. Agents obtained and executed a search warrant at the woman’s residence in Rigby, Idaho. However, none of the electronic devices recovered or email addresses used by the woman matched the evidence from the investigation.
Agents eventually learned that the woman had not been involved in the crime. Caleb Sickinger, who was a police officer at the time, ultimately admitted to falsely assuming the woman’s identity—without her knowledge—by utilizing images from her social media account. Sickinger also admitted to obtaining images of the child from social media and having the images digitally altered to appear as child pornography. Sickinger then distributed those altered images to the individual in Alabama.
Chief U.S. District David C. Nye also ordered Sickinger be placed on supervised release for the remainder of his life following his prison sentence. Sickinger will be required to register as a sex offender. Sickinger pleaded guilty to the charge on April 8, 2025.
“This defendant victimized a child and her mother in committing this horrible crime,” Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said. “I commend the cooperative efforts of the federal, state, and local law enforcement agents who identified him as the perpetrator and held him appropriately accountable.”
“Every image and video created and shared perpetuates the abuse of a child who will carry that trauma for the rest of their lives,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI is unwavering and united with our partners in the fight to protect our children from predators who seek to exploit and harm them.”
“I want to thank my ICAC investigators, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and our local and federal law enforcement partners for their efforts in securing today’s outcome,” said Attorney General Labrador. “Idahoans are safer today because of their hard work and dedication to protecting our state.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation in Pocatello, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, the Idaho Falls Police Department, and the Idaho ICAC Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Paskett prosecuted this 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. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Career Offender Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Threatening a Federal Judge and a Federal ProsecutorRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Nathanael Michael West, 28, was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release on July 31, 2025, for, with the intent to retaliate, threatening to murder, assault, or kidnap a federal judge and a federal prosecutor, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. The court ordered the sentence to be served consecutively to two prior sentences in 2020 and 2022 for similar convictions in the District of Idaho.
According to court records, in October 2022, West was sentenced to federal prison for mailing threatening communications to three state prosecutors. In February 2023, while serving a state sentence for burglary at an Idaho state prison, West sent a threatening letter to Assistant United States Attorney David Robins, who prosecuted the two cases that led to West’s incarceration. The letter contained graphic descriptions of West’s threat to assault, kidnap, torture, mutilate, and murder the prosecutor. Less than two weeks later, in March 2023, West sent another threatening letter to Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye, who sentenced West in October 2022. That letter vividly described West’s threat to assault and murder the judge.
On August 14, 2024, a federal grand jury in Idaho returned a four-count indictment, charging West with mailing threatening communications, threatening to assault, kidnap, or murder a federal law enforcement officer with intent to retaliate, and threatening to assault or murder a United States Judge with intent to retaliate. On July 31, 2025, West pleaded guilty to all four counts of the indictment.
“The 96-month sentence in this case is appropriate and justified, reflecting the seriousness, brazen, and violent nature of the defendant’s persistent threats,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “The defendant’s deliberate actions were not only incredibly personal to the victims in this case, but they were also an assault on the integrity of the criminal justice system.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho was recused from this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas H. Edmonds from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon was appointed as Special Attorney to the United States Attorney General to prosecute the case. He reports to and acts under the direction of the Deputy Attorney General, or his delegee, or U.S. Attorney Bradford in the case.
U.S. Attorney Bradford commended the work of the FBI, which conducted the investigation.
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Career Offender Sentenced to Eight Years in Federal Prison for Threatening a Federal Judge and a Federal ProsecutorRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Nathanael Michael West, 28, was sentenced to 96 months in federal prison and three years’ supervised release on July 31, 2025, for, with the intent to retaliate, threatening to murder, assault, or kidnap a federal judge and a federal prosecutor, announced U.S. Attorney Scott E. Bradford for the District of Oregon. The court ordered the sentence to be served consecutively to two prior sentences in 2020 and 2022 for similar convictions in the District of Idaho.
According to court records, in October 2022, West was sentenced to federal prison for mailing threatening communications to three state prosecutors. In February 2023, while serving a state sentence for burglary at an Idaho state prison, West sent a threatening letter to Assistant United States Attorney David Robins, who prosecuted the two cases that led to West’s incarceration. The letter contained graphic descriptions of West’s threat to assault, kidnap, torture, mutilate, and murder the prosecutor. Less than two weeks later, in March 2023, West sent another threatening letter to Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye, who sentenced West in October 2022. That letter vividly described West’s threat to assault and murder the judge.
On August 14, 2024, a federal grand jury in Idaho returned a four-count indictment, charging West with mailing threatening communications, threatening to assault, kidnap, or murder a federal law enforcement officer with intent to retaliate, and threatening to assault or murder a United States Judge with intent to retaliate. On July 31, 2025, West pleaded guilty to all four counts of the indictment.
“The 96-month sentence in this case is appropriate and justified, reflecting the seriousness, brazen, and violent nature of the defendant’s persistent threats,” said Scott E. Bradford, U.S. Attorney for the District of Oregon. “The defendant’s deliberate actions were not only incredibly personal to the victims in this case, but they were also an assault on the integrity of the criminal justice system.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho was recused from this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Thomas H. Edmonds from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Oregon was appointed as Special Attorney to the United States Attorney General to prosecute the case. He reports to and acts under the direction of the Deputy Attorney General, or his delegee, or U.S. Attorney Bradford in the case.
U.S. Attorney Bradford commended the work of the FBI, which conducted the investigation.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to 120 Months in Federal Prison for Trafficking Drugs and Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
BOISE – Edwin Reyes-Parra, 22, of Mexico, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl while in possession of a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
Between June and October 2024, Reyes-Parra distributed over 4 pounds of methamphetamine and smaller amounts of fentanyl and fluorofentanyl into the community. In December 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence and located 75.5 grams of fentanyl, a firearm, and $2,000.00 in cash. Prior to the execution of the warrant, Reyes-Parra attempted to flush drugs down the toilet. Upon completion of his sentence, Reyes-Parra, an alien born in Mexico and without legal authority to be in the United States, is likely to be deported back to Mexico.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Boise Police Department, the High Desert Drug Task Force, the Oregon State Police, and the Payette County Narcotics Task Force, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kane Venecia prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office with funds provided by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney position.
The High Desert Drug Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. They are supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Meth Trafficker Sentenced to Nearly 22 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Deann Tackman, 55, of Boise, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, Tackman was the Idaho arm of a multi-state and multi-national drug trafficking organization. Tackman supplied the Idaho Treasure Valley area with large quantities of methamphetamine over a five-month period prior to her arrest. The investigation, which involved several law enforcement agencies and spanned multiple federal districts, revealed that Tackman distributed over 60 pounds of methamphetamine in the Treasure Valley area a few weeks before her arrest. During the execution of a search warrant at Tackman’s residence, law enforcement located over 36 individually wrapped packages, each containing approximately one pound of methamphetamine, in the gas tank of a vehicle that had just been delivered to her residence.
“Ms. Tackman’s drug trafficking organization flooded our state with immense quantities of dangerous methamphetamine” said Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott. “Fortunately for Idahoans, six law enforcement agencies worked together to dismantle the organization and stop the flow of methamphetamine. This appropriately severe sentence sends the message to drug traffickers that they are not welcome in Idaho.”
“Ms. Tackman preyed on Treasure Valley residents by poisoning our community with large quantities of methamphetamine, leaving a trail of misery in her wake,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “I am proud that DEA and our partners were able to hold her to account for her crime with this lengthy sentence that she richly deserves.”
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Tackman to serve five years of supervised release following her prison sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Boise Police Department, the Meridian Police Department, and the Oregon High Desert Drug Task Force, which led to the charges and arrest. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
The DEA Task Force and High Desert Drug Task Force are multi-jurisdictional narcotics task forces that identify, disrupt, and dismantle local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. They are supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETFs) and Project Safe Neighborhood (PSN).
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Undocumented Alien Sentenced in Federal Court for Using a False Social Security Number to Obtain Employment at Boise HotelRead the Press Release
BOISE – Lina Marcela Ospina Isaza, 24, of Bucaramanga, Colombia, was sentenced to time served of approximately 2 months imprisonment for the false use of a social security number, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin D. Whatcott announced today. U.S. District Court Judge Amanda K. Brailsford waived the fine and special assessment due to Isaza’s likely deportation. Isaza pleaded guilty on June 10, 2025.
According to court records, Isaza, a Colombian citizen, unlawfully entered the United States near Otay Mesa, California on December 1, 2023. She was arrested and admitted to illegally crossing the international boundary without being inspected by an immigration officer at a designated Port of Entry. However, she was released from the custody of the Department of Homeland Security by “Order of Recognizance,” pending an immigration hearing. Isaza provided her address to a location in Massachusetts and was instructed that if she moved, she had five days to update her address with the Department of Homeland Security. Isaza instead moved to Boise and purchased a fraudulent social security card and a fraudulent legal permanent resident card. She presented both to a Boise hotel in April 2024 to obtain employment and signed an I-9 form that contained the fraudulent social security card number. She subsequently changed jobs and admitted to using the same fraudulent social security card to obtain new employment at a downtown Boise hotel in May 2024.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of Homeland Security Investigations, which led to the charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian Nafzger 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, and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Isaza is one of eight recent indictments returned in the District of Idaho of undocumented aliens using false social security numbers and fraudulent legal permanent resident cards to unlawfully obtain employment at various businesses in Boise. The Department of Homeland Security continues to inspect I-9 employment forms to identify employees who fraudulently use social security numbers and/or fraudulent lawful permanent resident cards. False use of a Social Security Number is a felony offense which carries up to five years imprisonment and a $250,000 fine. For employers, the Department of Homeland Security increased civil penalties for Immigration Reform and Control Act violations on January 2, 2025. The new civil penalty for knowingly hiring, recruiting, referral or retention of unauthorized aliens was increased to a maximum fine of $5,724 (per unauthorized alien) for a first offense and up to $28,619 (per unauthorized alien) for a third or subsequent offense.
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Pocatello Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking DrugsRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Jack Edward Newsom, 43, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 121 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Newsom to serve five years of supervised release after he completes his prison sentence.
According to court records, Newsom was arrested on May 8, 2024, when police officers executed a search warrant on his home and a fifth-wheel trailer parked in a storage facility. The officers seized 48.9 grams of fentanyl powder and a half a pound of methamphetamine from the residence in addition to a pound of marijuana, half a pound of methamphetamine, 79.6 grams of fentanyl powder, and 237 fentanyl pills from the fifth-wheel trailer. The warrant was executed after a months-long investigation in which law enforcement bought three and a half pounds of methamphetamine from Newsom on five occasions between February and April 2024.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the cooperative efforts of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the BADGES Task Force. The BADGES Task Force is a federally funded High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) partnership between the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Idaho State Police, the Pocatello Police Department, the Chubbuck Police Department, and the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office.
This case was investigated though the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multiagency drug enforcement initiatives, including the BADGES Task Force.
The BADGES Task Force is a collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies that focuses primarily on drug trafficking crimes in Bannock County and throughout the region.
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Urgent Care Operator Pays $3 Million Dollars to Resolve Alleged Violations of the False Claims ActRead the Press Release
BOISE – Bloom Care LLC and its owners have paid $3,000,000 to resolve allegations that they violated the False Claims Act by submitting false claims to Federal healthcare programs for medically unnecessary testing and for inflating the extent of services performed. Bloom operated Urgent Care centers in Idaho and New Mexico throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.
The United States alleged that Bloom knowingly used the COVID-19 pandemic as an excuse for billing for medically unnecessary streptococcus and influenza tests for asymptomatic patients. Additionally, the United States contends that Bloom submitted claims for high-level evaluation and management services for COVID-19 patients when Bloom knew that the services should have been billed at a lower level of service that would have been reimbursed at a lower rate. To justify these high reimbursement claims, the United States contends that Bloom exaggerated the time spent with COVID-19 patients and/or the complexity of the evaluation required to care for these patients.
“The Department of Justice is committed to identifying waste, fraud, and abuse in federal programs,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott. “I commend the federal and state agencies that investigated this case, as their important efforts protect taxpayer dollars.”
“Healthcare providers participating in federal health care programs must follow all relevant laws and rules when submitting claims – and certainly not order medically unnecessary services to boost their profits,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeffrey McIntosh of the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “This settlement shows HHS-OIG’s enduring commitment to protecting the integrity of federal health care programs and the people who rely on them. We will continue to collaborate with our law enforcement partners to investigate allegations brought under the False Claims Act.”
“Companies that provide services to veterans will be held to the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, and accountability,” said Special Agent in Charge Dimitriana Nikolov with the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of Inspector General’s Northwest Field Office. “Submitting claims for medically unnecessary services will not be tolerated, and the VA OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to hold wrongdoers accountable and ensure veterans receive the quality healthcare they deserve.”
This matter was investigated jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General, and the United States Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General. Additional assistance was provided by the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare. Assistant United States Attorney Elliot Wertheim handled this case.
The claims resolved by the settlement against Bloom Care LLC are allegations only and there has been no admission or determination of liability.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Justice Department in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The task force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department’s response to the pandemic, please visit www.justice.gov/coronavirus.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866‑720‑5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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Federal Jury Convicts Washington Man of Three Counts of Assault with a Dangerous Weapon on the Coeur d’Alene Indian ReservationRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – After a four-day trial, a federal jury sitting in Coeur d’Alene found Jason Bergeron, 50, of Washington, guilty of three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford presided over the trial, which began on July 7, and concluded with guilty verdicts as to three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon on July 10.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Bergeron drove to his ex-girlfriend’s house on the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation. Once there, he shot a rifle into the house while his ex-girlfriend, her daughter and son-in-law, and her three-year-old grandson were at the house. Bergeron shot multiple additional rounds of ammunition towards the daughter and son-in-law as they fled with their child, then pointed the rifle at his ex-girlfriend multiple times and threatened to kill her. All the victims in this case are members of the Coeur d’Alene Indian Reservation.
Each of the three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon is punishable by up to ten years in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release. Sentencing is set for September 24, 2025, before Judge Brailsford at the federal courthouse in Coeur d’Alene.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Police and the Federal Bureau of Investigation for a meticulous and professional investigation, which led to the charges. He also thanked the Coeur d’Alene Tribal Prosecutor and the Kootenai County Prosecuting Attorney for their assistance with this case. Assistants United States Attorney Bryce Ellsworth and Adam Johnson prosecuted the case.
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Multi-State Methamphetamine Trafficker Sentenced to over 15 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Rito Salazar, 59, of Nampa, was sentenced to 182 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Salazar to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
According to court records, Salazar was sending a courier to California monthly to purchase large quantities of methamphetamine and transporting them to Idaho. He would then redistribute the methamphetamine to local street dealers in Idaho for further distribution. Salazar has an extensive criminal history and has previously been convicted of drug trafficking crimes at the state level.
“This investigation is an excellent example of the success achieved when local law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office partner to disrupt multi-state drug traffickers.” said Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott. “As our population grows, so does drug traffickers’ access to larger supplies of drugs. Ensuring drug traffickers are held accountable for bringing these dangerous drugs to Idaho is among the highest priorities of Idaho’s local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the collaborative investigation efforts of the Boise Police Department’s Boise Area Narcotic Drug Interdiction Team (BANDIT), the Canyon County City and County Narcotics Unit (CCNU), and the Federal Bureau of Investigation Sacramento Field Office’s Fresno Resident Agency, which led to the charges. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey A. Manweiler prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth. For more information, visit www.treasurevalleypartners.org.
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Weiser Man Sentenced to 14 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child Sex Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOISE – Cody Michael Howells, 35, of Weiser, was sentenced to 168 months in federal prison for possessing child sexual abuse material, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, the investigation began when the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (“ICAC”) received CyberTip reports from an online social media platform. A CyberTip is a report submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). NCMEC gathers leads and tips regarding suspected online crimes against children and forwards them to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. ICAC determined that numerous files of child sexual abuse material had been uploaded to an account, later identified as belonging to Howells. ICAC subsequently executed a federal search warrant at Howell’s residence in Weiser. During an interview, Howells admitted to viewing child sexual abuse material. ICAC located additional files of child sexual abuse material on Howell’s cellphone. At the time, Howells was on parole for Lewd Conduct with a Minor Under 16.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also sentenced Howells to lifetime supervised release following his prison sentence and ordered him to pay $30,000 in restitution to victims in the images he possessed. Howells will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Idaho ICAC Task Force, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Rupert Police Department, and the Weiser Police Department, which led to the charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney David G. Robins prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Fort Hall Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Abe L. Sireech, 37, of Fort Hall, was sentenced to 29 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a felon, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, on August 6, 2022, Fort Hall Police responded to a residence based on a report of a suspicious vehicle parked in front of the owner’s house. Police arrived and found Sireech in the driver’s seat of the vehicle. Sireech appeared to be under the influence of alcohol. While talking to Sireech, the officer saw a rifle next to Sireech’s right leg. The officer removed Sireech from the vehicle and found that the rifle was a loaded semi-automatic rifle with additional loaded magazines in the vehicle. Police determined that Sireech had an earlier conviction for felony aggravated assault and was therefore prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Sireech pleaded guilty to illegal possession of the firearm on April 7, 2025. Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Sireech to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Hall Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Haycock prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Burley Man Sentenced to 30 Years in Federal Prison for Producing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Michael Allen Montoya, 40, of Burley, was sentenced to 360 months in federal prison for sexual exploitation of a child, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, the investigation began when the FBI became aware that a person, later identified as Montoya, was distributing child sexual abuse material through an online social media platform. The FBI also learned that during online chat conversations, Montoya had discussed his sexual interest in children and had exchanged child sexual abuse material with other offenders. The FBI referred the investigation to the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force (“ICAC”). The ICAC obtained a federal search warrant for Montoya’s Burley residence. During a forensic examination of Montoya’s electronic devices, ICAC located numerous files of child sexual abuse material. ICAC also discovered that Montoya had produced explicit images and videos of himself sexually abusing an infant and an 8-year-old child in his care.
“Law enforcement in Idaho has zero tolerance for those that target children for abuse and exploitation.” Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said. “As this case illustrates, images of child sexual abuse material are not just images – they are evidence of sexual abuse committed by predators like this defendant. I am thankful that we have outstanding professionals in the ICAC, the FBI, and our office that are dedicated to protecting Idaho’s children and ensuring this type of abhorrent conduct results in significant prison sentences.”
“Our commitment to protecting children from abuse is unwavering,” said Idaho Attorney General Labrador. “I am grateful for our ICAC Task Force and the partnership we have with Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott’s office. By working together, we can continue making Idaho safer by investigating, arresting, and prosecuting one bad guy at a time.”
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also sentenced Montoya to lifetime supervised release and ordered him to pay restitution to his victims. Montoya will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the cooperative efforts of the Idaho ICAC Task Force, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Rupert Police Department, the Idaho State Police, the Minidoka County Sheriff’s Office, and the Cassia County Sheriff’s Office, which led to the charge. This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Kassandra McGrady and Erin Blackadar.
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. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Career Drug Trafficker Sentenced to over 11 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Nicole Ann Kettler, 41, of Grayling, Michigan was sentenced to 139 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced.
According to court records, Kettler was travelling to Portland, Oregon on a regular basis to purchase large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl for distribution in Idaho. On May 2, 2024, Kettler was pulled over for a traffic violation in Nampa, Idaho. During the traffic stop, officers observed drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. A canine trained in the detection of the odor of controlled substances positively alerted on the vehicle. A subsequent search of the vehicle uncovered approximately 4,300 fentanyl pills, more than a half-pound of fentanyl powder, more than a quarter-pound of methamphetamine, and a variety of other controlled substances. After Kettler was arrested, she admitted to investigators that she frequently travelled to Portland to purchase significant quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl for distribution in Idaho. Kettler has two prior convictions for possession with intent to deliver controlled substances.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Kettler to serve five years of supervised release following her prison sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Idaho State Police Department, the Oregon State Police Department, and the High Desert Drug Task Force, which led to Kettler’s arrest and subsequent charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
The High Desert Drug Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional narcotics task force that identifies, disrupts, and dismantles local, multi-state, and international drug trafficking organizations using an intelligence-driven, multi-agency prosecutor-supported approach. They are supported by the Oregon-Idaho High-Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA).
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Boise Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Mountain Home Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
BOISE – Leon Jason Fortner, 57, of Boise, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison for bank robbery, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced.
According to court records, on August 20, 2024, Fortner entered the Chase Bank in Mountain Home carrying a backpack. He approached the teller station and told the teller that the backpack contained an explosive device. He then told both tellers to give him all their cash or he would detonate the device. The tellers complied by providing cash from the tills and Fortner then fled the bank and got into a nearby vehicle.
Law enforcement officers attempted to stop the vehicle, but Fortner led them on a high-speed chase through Mountain Home and onto I-84. After a lengthy pursuit at high speeds, officers disabled Fortner’s vehicle and took him into custody. They discovered cash from the robbery in his pockets, and Fortner admitted that he robbed the bank. Officers later discovered that the backpack contained clothing and a water bottle, but no explosives.
“Mr. Fortner threatened the lives of bank employees and endangered the lives of law enforcement officers and motorists during his dangerous attempt to avoid capture.” Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said. “Nine years in federal prison is an appropriate punishment for this crime. I am thankful for the efforts of the Mountain Home Police Department and the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, which ensured that no one was injured by Mr. Fortner.”
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Fortner to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Fortner pleaded guilty on February 24, 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Mountain Home Police Department, who investigated the case, as well as the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, the Office of Special Investigations and the Explosive Ordinance Disposal team from Mountain Home Air Force Base, and the Elmore County Prosecuting Attorney, all of whom provided valuable assistance during the investigation and prosecution.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Drug Dealer from Fort Hall Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Walker Dean Cates, 39, of Fort Hall, was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, Cates sold methamphetamine and fentanyl to an individual on three occasions at his residence at Fort Hall. On April 11, 2024, Cates sold 3.58 grams of methamphetamine. On July 22, 2024, Cates and his co-defendant, Mariah Dawn Russell, sold 10.92 grams of fentanyl. On August 21, 2024, Cates and co-defendant Russell sold 505.7 grams of fentanyl.
On October 9, 2024, officers traveled to Cates home to arrest him pursuant to the federal arrest warrant. Cates fled from police officers in his vehicle at a high rate of speed. Officers from multiple law enforcement agencies pursued Cates through the residential area and the backroads of Fort Hall. Officers subsequently arrested Cates after he crashed his vehicle in a rural area of Fort Hall.
Cates was held accountable for a total of 516.62 grams of fentanyl and 3.58 grams of methamphetamine that he sold to the individual.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Cates to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Cates pleaded guilty to the charge in February 2025. On December 16, 2024, codefendant Russell pleaded guilty to conspiring to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Russell is scheduled for sentencing on July 17, 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the U.S. Marshals Service, the Bingham County Sheriff’s Office, the Fort Hall Police Department and the BADGES Task Force, which is a HIDTA-funded task force that includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Pocatello Police Department, the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, the Idaho State Police, and the Chubbuck Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted this case.
These cases were investigated through the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multiagency drug enforcement initiatives, including the BADGES Task Force.
The BADGES Task Force is a collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies that focuses primarily on drug trafficking in Bannock County and throughout the region.
This case was handled by the U.S. Attorney Office’s specially deputized Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA), funded by the Eastern Idaho Partnership (EIP) and the State of Idaho. The EIP is a coalition of local city and county officials in eastern Idaho as well as the Idaho Department of Correction.
The EIP SAUSA program allows law enforcement to utilize the federal criminal justice system – through the EIP SAUSA – to prosecute, convict, and sentence violent, armed criminals and drug traffickers. These criminals often receive stiffer penalties than they might in state courts.
This program was created in January 2016. Since that time, approximately 200 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 175 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 11,144 months (approximately 928.66 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 77.4 months (6.45 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 64.19 months (5.35 years) in federal prison.
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Salvadoran National Sentenced to 30 Months in Federal Prison for Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jorge Humberto Caballero-Umana, 37, a Salvadoran national, was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for being a deported alien found in the United States, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, Caballero-Umana is a native and citizen of El Salvador. The United States lawfully removed Caballero-Umana from the country in January 2018 and January 2020. After his removal from the United States, Caballero-Umana again re-entered the United States illegally and without lawful authority. Special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) encountered Caballero-Umana in Ada County in June 2024. Caballero-Umana has a history of state felony convictions in Utah, as well as federal convictions in 2018 and 2019 for being a deported alien found in the United States.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the efforts of Immigration and Customs Enforcement, (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) for their work on this investigation.
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Justice Department Files Religious Liberty Lawsuit Against Troy, Idaho for Discriminating Against a Small Christian ChurchRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The Justice Department filed a lawsuit today in the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho alleging that the City of Troy, Idaho, violated the Religious Land Use and Institutionalized Persons Act (RLUIPA) when it denied a conditional use permit (CUP) application sought by Christ Church, a small evangelical church.
The lawsuit alleges that Christ Church had outgrown the space where it had been worshipping and was unable to find a space to rent. It then sought a CUP to operate a church in the City’s C-1 zoning district, where nonreligious assembly uses such as clubs, museums, auditoriums, and art galleries were allowed. Local residents vociferously opposed the Church’s CUP application, and many of their written and verbal comments reflected animus against Christ Church’s beliefs. In its denial of the Church’s CUP application, the City cited the fact that the public was “heavily against” it and that the “great majority of the city residents” opposed granting the CUP.
“RLUIPA unequivocally forbids local governments from deciding zoning matters based on their dislike of certain religious groups,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Department of Justice will not hesitate to file suit against jurisdictions that discriminate in land use matters on the basis of the applicants’ religious beliefs.”
The lawsuit alleges that the City’s denial of the CUP imposed a substantial burden on Christ Church and was based on the community’s discriminatory animus against the Church. It also alleges that the City’s zoning code treats religious assembly use worse than nonreligious assembly use. The lawsuit alleges violations of RLUIPA’s substantial burden, equal terms, and discrimination provisions.
RLUIPA is a federal law that guards individuals and religious institutions from unduly burdensome, unequal, or discriminatory land use regulations. More information about RLUIPA and the department’s work can be found on the Place to Worship Initiative’s webpage.
As part of this initiative, the department distributed a letter to state, county, and municipal leaders throughout the country to remind them of their obligations under RLUIPA, including its requirement that land use regulations treat religious assemblies and institutions at least as well as nonreligious assemblies and institutions.
Individuals who believe they have been subjected to discrimination in land use or zoning decisions may contact the Civil Rights Division’s Housing and Civil Enforcement Section at (833) 591-0291 or may submit a complaint through the RLUIPA complaint portal. More information about RLUIPA, including questions and answers about the law and other documents, may be found at www.justice.gov/crt/about/hce/rluipaexplain.php.
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Federal Jury Convicts Nampa Man of Attempting to Produce Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOISE – After a three-day trial, a federal jury sitting in Boise found William Walls, 52, of Nampa, guilty of three counts of attempted sexual exploitation of a child, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill presided over the trial, which began on May 12, and concluded with guilty verdicts on May 14.
According to testimony and evidence presented at trial, Walls used his cellphone to surreptitiously record three female children in the bathroom of his apartment. Walls was babysitting the victims at the time. The video captured one of the children showering and the other two children changing their clothes.
The charge of attempted sexual exploitation of a child carries a minimum of fifteen years and up to life in federal prison, a fine of up to $250,000, and at least five years and up to lifetime of supervised release. Walls will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
Sentencing is set for July 31, 2025, before Judge Winmill at the federal courthouse in Boise.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the Nampa Police Department for a thorough and professional investigation, which led to the charges. Assistant United States Attorneys Kassandra McGrady and Erin Blackadar prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Two Men Sentenced to Federal Prison in Separate Fentanyl Trafficking CasesRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced the results of two separate drug distribution cases in eastern Idaho today.
In one case, David Erik Traversa, 32, of Utah, was sentenced to 156 months in federal prison for possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute it.
According to court records, in May 2024, officers initiated a traffic stop on a vehicle and arrested an individual in possession of approximately 200 fentanyl pills weighing 19.6 grams. Officers found two hotel room keys and applied for a search warrant. A magistrate judge for the Sixth Judicial District, State of Idaho, issued a warrant to search the hotel rooms.
Officers executed the search warrant on the hotel rooms. In one room officers found Traversa overdosing; they engaged in life saving measures while waiting for the ambulance. In the hotel room, officers found fentanyl pills and drug paraphernalia including several different sized baggies commonly used to package drugs. The ambulance took Traversa to the hospital where he received treatment for the nonfatal overdose. While at the hospital, staff found a black drawstring bag attached to his genitals. The drawstring bag contained approximately 576 fentanyl pills. In total, the fentanyl seized during the traffic stop and found in Traversa’s possession weighed 84.42 grams.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Traversa to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Traversa pleaded guilty to the charge in November 2024.
In a separate case, Casey Steven Evans, 38, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for possessing fentanyl with the intent to distribute it.
According to court records, in May 2024, law enforcement stopped a blue Range Rover belonging to Evans. During the traffic stop, officers developed probable cause to search the Range Rover. When officers searched the trunk, they found a black metal safe that contained small blue circular fentanyl pills and a loaded black and silver SCCY CPX-1 9mm handgun. On the front passenger floor, officers found a second loaded handgun, which was a black Taurus PT111 9mm. The safe contained 107.94 grams of fentanyl.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Evans to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Evans pleaded guilty to the charge in February 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the BADGES Task Force, which is a HIDTA-funded task force that includes the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, the Idaho State Police, the Pocatello Police Department, and the Chubbuck Police Department. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted these cases.
These cases were investigated though the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multiagency drug enforcement initiatives, including the BADGES Task Force.
The BADGES Task Force is a collaboration of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies that focuses primarily on drug trafficking crimes in Bannock County and throughout the region.
These cases were handled by the U.S. Attorney Office’s specially deputized Special Assistant U.S. Attorney (SAUSA), funded by the Eastern Idaho Partnership (EIP) and the State of Idaho. The EIP is a coalition of local city and county officials in eastern Idaho as well as the Idaho Department of Correction.
The EIP SAUSA program allows law enforcement to utilize the federal criminal justice system – through the EIP SAUSA – to prosecute, convict, and sentence violent, armed criminals and drug traffickers. These criminals often receive stiffer penalties than they might in state courts.
This program was created in January 2016. Since that time, approximately 190 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 165 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 11,060 months (approximately 921.66 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 76.81 months (6.4 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 63.61 months (5.3 years) in federal prison.
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Post Falls Man Sentenced to Federal Prison for Pointing Laser at HelicopterRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE – Aspen August Schaffer, 31, of Post Falls, was sentenced to 35 months in federal prison for aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. Schaffer will serve an additional 3 years on supervised release after he is released from prison.
According to court records, Schaffer was indicted in September 2024 by a grand jury and charged with aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft in violation of federal law. On August 16, 2024, Schaffer was out with friends and pointed a bright green laser at the Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office helicopter as it flew overhead. The laser struck the helicopter multiple times and impaired the vision of the pilot, the sergeant and the deputy who were on board. The helicopter lost altitude, but the pilot regained control and brought the helicopter back up to altitude. Law enforcement tracked the car Schaffer was in and arrested him. Schaffer had a blood alcohol level of .11 when he was booked into jail. Schaffer was known to law enforcement and has prior felony convictions.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Kootenai County Sheriff's Office, and the City of Coeur d’Alene Police Department which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Traci J. Whelan prosecuted the case.
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Former City Clerk / Treasurer Pleads Guilty to Stealing over $196,000 from the City of New PlymouthRead the Press Release
BOISE – Danielle Painter, 41, of Fruitland, pleaded guilty to wire fraud related to defrauding the City of New Plymouth through unauthorized personal purchases on City credit cards, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, Danielle Painter was employed as the City Clerk / Treasurer for the City of New Plymouth from 2012 to 2023. As the City Clerk / Treasurer, Painter was responsible for performing various accounting functions, including recording and coding of credit card charges in the accounting system, issuing electronic credit card payments, and retaining credit card statements.
Between 2017 and 2023, Painter devised a scheme to defraud the City of New Plymouth by using City of New Plymouth credit cards for unauthorized personal expenses. The unauthorized personal expenses included retail purchases, restaurants, clothing, travel, concerts, utility and rent, and medical expenses.
In total, Painter made $196,947.87 in unauthorized charges using City of New Plymouth credit cards between 2017 and 2023. To hide her scheme, Painter entered many of the expenses as professional services in the City of New Plymouth’s internal accounting system.
“The Idaho State Police takes our responsibility seriously to uphold public trust and protect taxpayer dollars.” Investigative Lieutenant Jack Catlin stated. “This case demonstrates the strength of our partnerships with local and federal agencies and our shared commitment to holding individuals accountable when that trust is violated.”
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford will sentence Painter on August 5, 2025. The charge in this case is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $250,000, and up to three years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the investigation by the Idaho State Police, which led to the charge. Assistant U.S Attorney Sean Mazorol is prosecuting this case.
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Idaho Falls Man Sentenced to 135 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Andrew Clifford Meyer, 36, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced to 135 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, on August 18, 2023, officers contacted Meyer in the Fort Hall Casino parking lot, after receiving reports of a fight. After locating Meyer’s car, officers observed fentanyl pills through a window. Officers subsequently searched Meyer’s car and found approximately 12,000 fentanyl pills and a large quantity of cash. Meyer told officers the pills came from Arizona and admitted to selling fentanyl.
Meyer pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl on September 19, 2024. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Meyer to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Fort Hall Police Department and the Bingham County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Haycock prosecuted the case.
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Convicted Felon to Serve 52 Months in Prison for Discharging a Firearm After Calling 911Read the Press Release
BOISE –Santiago Prieto, 65, of Nampa, was sentenced to 52 months in federal prison for unlawful possession of a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, in January 2024, paramedics responded to an emergency call from Prieto. When paramedics arrived, Prieto refused to open the door to his hotel room. Paramedics then heard two gunshots from inside the room. Law enforcement responded and heard another gunshot coming from the window of Prieto’s room. One officer saw a firearm pointed in the direction of other responding officers. Officers were eventually able to convince Prieto to exit his room unarmed. After officers arrested Prieto, he admitted to firing two shots out of the window. Inside the room, officers found a 9mm pistol, along with several shell casings
At the time of the offense, Prieto was on parole for a felony arson conviction. Prieto was prohibited from possessing firearms due to several prior felony convictions, including aggravated battery and battery on a correctional officer. Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Prieto to serve 3 years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
“I commend the successful efforts of the Boise Police Department to deescalate the situation and achieve Prieto’s safe surrender.” Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott stated. “This case highlights how dangerous it is for the community when violent offenders have access to firearms.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott thanked the Boise Police Department, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and the Ada County Prosecutor’s Office for their cooperative efforts that led to the charge in this case.
This case was prosecuted by Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Manweiler, who was hired by the Treasure Valley Partnership and the State of Idaho to address gang crimes. The Treasure Valley Partnership is comprised of a group of elected officials in southwest Idaho dedicated to regional coordination, cooperation, and collaboration on creating coherent regional growth.
This case was part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Lapwai Man Sentenced to 19 Years in Prison for MurderRead the Press Release
COEUR D'ALENE – William Oliver Eyle, 21, of Lapwai, was sentenced to 19 years in federal prison for second degree murder, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, on May 12, 2023, Eyle murdered Elias Albert Spencer on the Nez Perce Indian Reservation. There was no fight or disagreement between the two individuals. Eyle’s car broke down in front of Elias’ home and when Elias went to see what was going on, Eyle shot him five times. Elias’ family found his body on the sidewalk in front of the home. According to the statements from the sentencing, Eyle fled the area, destroyed evidence and remained a fugitive for months. He was finally located by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the U.S. Marshals Service toward the end of November 2023. Eyle was 19 years at the time he murdered Elias.
Eyle pleaded guilty to second degree murder on January 29, 2025. United States District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Eyle to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Eyle’s mother, Jacinta Wheeler, pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony and was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison on November 14, 2024, due to her failure to report the murder and her advice to Eyle to flee.
“The murder of Elias Albert Spencer was a senseless act of violence.” Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said. “My heart goes out to Elias’ family, whose strength and resolve during this tragedy has been inspiring. While this sentence cannot bring Elias back, hopefully it provides them some measure of closure, while also preventing future acts of violence by this defendant for a lengthy time.”
“William Eyle’s actions profoundly impacted not only the victim’s family but the community’s sense of safety,” said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the Salt Lake City FBI. “While nothing will bring their loved one back, we hope the sentence provides some sense of justice to Elias Spencer’s family and friends. The FBI is committed to working with our partners to solve MMIP cases and ensure safety on reservations.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Nez Perce Tribal Police, which led to the charges. Assistants U.S. Attorneys Traci Whelan and Adam Johnson prosecuted the case.
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Fort Hall Man Sentenced to 100 Months in Federal Prison for Fentanyl DistributionRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Creston Dale Kindness, 42, of Fort Hall, was sentenced to 100 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, on January 21, 2024, officers observed Kindness driving at a high rate of speed. A lengthy pursuit followed, and the vehicle stopped when it became stuck in the snow. Officers arrested Kindness and took him to jail. At the jail, a sheriff’s deputy observed Kindness make a video call to a female friend. Kindness told the friend that he threw a bag with her name on it out of the car window during the pursuit. Kindness gave her the location and told her to go get the bag. Officers responded and found the bag. The bag contained a large amount of cash and 350 grams of fentanyl pills.
Kindness pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute fentanyl on June 24, 2024. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Kindness to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Bingham County Sheriff’s Office, the Bingham, Blackfoot, Shelley Investigation Unit, the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, the Fort Hall Police Department, and the Idaho State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Haycock prosecuted the case.
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Emmett Man Sentenced to over 6 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOISE – Kevin Kirkland, 52, of Emmett, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for possession of child sexual abuse material, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, the investigation began when the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force received CyberTip reports from a cloud storage company. A CyberTip is a report submitted to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC). NCMEC gathers leads and tips regarding suspected online crimes against children and forwards them to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. ICAC determined that numerous egregious files of child sexual abuse material had been uploaded to a cloud storage account, later identified as belonging to Kirkland. ICAC seized Kirkland’s cellphone pursuant to a federal search warrant and located additional files of child sexual abuse material.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also sentenced Kirkland to 15 years of supervised release following his prison sentence and ordered him to pay $24,000 in restitution to victims in the images he possessed. Kirkland will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
“I’m grateful for the continued dedication of our Internet Crimes Against Children Unit and the strong collaboration we have with our federal partners,” said Attorney General Raúl Labrador. “Their tireless work ensures that those who exploit children are brought to justice. Each successful prosecution reaffirms our commitment to protecting Idaho’s most vulnerable and holding offenders fully accountable under the law.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the cooperative efforts of the Idaho ICAC Task Force, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Emmett Police Department, which led to charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Kassandra McGrady prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. As part of Project Safe Childhood, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office partner to marshal federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Armed Repeat Offender Sentenced to 97 Months in Federal Prison for Drug and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
BOISE – Isaac Augustin Santoyo, 25, of Nampa, was sentenced to 97 months in federal prison for seven counts of distributing cocaine, one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crime, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. U.S. District Court Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also sentenced Santoyo to serve five years of supervised release upon completion of his prison sentence, pay a $9000 fine and pay a $900 special assessment.
According to court records, Santoyo had previously been convicted of possession of cocaine with intent to deliver in Ada County in 2017. When he completed probation for that offense, he continued to distribute cocaine in Canyon County. From October 2023 through April 2024, Santoyo sold cocaine during controlled buys with law enforcement on seven different occasions, totaling 868 grams. A search warrant was served on his residence, where law enforcement seized (and ultimately forfeited) $25,291, a semi-automatic handgun, and 174 grams of cocaine. Santoyo pleaded guilty to all nine offenses on January 16, 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department, the Meridian Police Department, Idaho State Police, and Idaho Probation and Parole.
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Caldwell Couple Sentenced to 133 and 96 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Michael Paul Lacasse, 48, and Venetia Dawn Trischan, 47, of Caldwell, were sentenced to 133 months and 96 months, respectively, in federal prison for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, in December 2023, law enforcement learned that Lacasse and Trischan were involved in distributing drugs. Lacasse provided his “customers” a 3x5 card, which contained different types and amounts of illicit controlled substances, and the “customers” could order from this “menu.” Lacasse traveled to California and Washington to purchase fentanyl and concealed the drugs in the engine of his truck. Trischan weighed and packaged drugs and maintained a ledger of the transactions.
On January 11, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Lacasse and Trischan’s shared residence and storage unit. In the residence, law enforcement found five firearms, a homemade suppressor attachment, ammunition, a detailed drug ledger, and approximately $21,000 cash. A search of the storage unit revealed six firearms, ammunition, and pounds of illegal narcotics, including methamphetamine, cocaine, heroin, ketamine, MDMA, and mushrooms. In total, Lacasse and Trischan intended to distribute 2,919.88 grams of methamphetamine, 1,054.76 grams of heroin, and 2,499.48 grams of cocaine.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Meridian Police Department, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse and Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kane Venecia prosecuted the case.
This case was prosecuted by the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney hired by the Ada County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office with funds provided by the Oregon-Idaho High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA) program. HIDTA is an Office of National Drug Control Policy (ONDCP) sponsored counterdrug grant program that coordinates with and provides funding resources to multi-agency drug enforcement initiatives, including the Special Assistant U.S. Attorney position.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Violent Armed Drug Trafficker from Boise's North End Sentenced to 262 Months in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Evan Nickolai Ernstson, 48, of Boise, was sentenced to 262 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. Senior U.S. District Court Judge B. Lynn Winmill also sentenced Ernstson to serve five years of supervised release upon completion of his prison sentence and pay a $2000 fine.
According to court records, Ernstson, originally from San Francisco, California, led a drug trafficking organization that distributed methamphetamine and cocaine between October 2023 and March 2024 out of a residence and various other locations in Boise’s North End neighborhood. A lengthy investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), which included a wiretap, culminated in the seizure of ten pounds of methamphetamine, a kilogram of cocaine, and four firearms. On March 20, 2024, Ernstson was arrested as he returned to Idaho after picking up a load of methamphetamine and cocaine from the Portland, Oregon area. He was armed with a loaded 9mm handgun.
Law enforcement, while conducting the wiretap, learned that someone stole approximately $65,000 in drug proceeds from Ernstson while he was out of town. DEA Agents intercepted Ernstson’s calls and texts and learned Ernstson planned to kidnap two individuals, zip-tie them and torture them until the money was returned. Agents intervened and prevented the kidnapping and seized approximately $42,000 of the stolen drug proceeds.
Ernstson is the third member of the drug trafficking organization to be sentenced to prison. Co-defendant Eva Spikes pleaded guilty to distributing methamphetamine and was sentenced to five years in prison on November 5, 2024. Co-defendant Leandru Stephens pleaded guilty to distributing methamphetamine and was sentenced to five years in prison on December 11, 2024. The remaining four co-defendants have pleaded guilty to various drug trafficking charges and will be sentenced in May 2025.
The investigation into Ernstson’s drug trafficking organization also resulted in the conviction and sentence of three other individuals involved in drug trafficking. Dustin Wyatt Peymon, 53, of Boise, pleaded guilty to distributing methamphetamine and was sentenced to 33 months in prison on November 6, 2024. Kristine Marie Shern, 28, of Mountain Home, pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony and was sentenced to three years’ probation on February 4, 2025. Brian Earl Polk, 26, of Boise, pleaded guilty to distributing methamphetamine and was sentenced to 77 months in prison and four years of supervised release on April 15, 2025.
“Our federal and state partners work together tirelessly to ensure that drug traffickers, especially those who are violent or armed, find no safe harbor in Idaho,” stated Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott.
“Mr. Ernstson led a drug trafficking ring that not only poisoned Idaho with large quantities of methamphetamine and other drugs, but was poised to kidnap and torture to further his criminal enterprise,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle. “This lengthy sentence ensures our community’s safety and demonstrates law enforcement’s steadfast resolve to protect our citizens from people like Mr. Ernstson.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Boise Police Department, the Nampa Police Special Investigations Unit, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, and the Elmore County Sheriff’s Office, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Erin C. Blackadar and Christian S. Nafzger prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) investigation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug traffickers, money launderers, gangs, and transnational criminal organizations that threaten the United States by using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies against criminal networks.
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