District of Idaho
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Three Nampa-Area Residents Plead Guilty to COVID-19 Relief FraudRead the Press Release
BOISE – Miguel Vittorio, Yessenia Casillas, and Luis Vasquez pleaded guilty to bank fraud charges in separate federal cases for defrauding the Paycheck Protection Program (“PPP”), Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. The PPP was a COVID-19 pandemic relief program administered by the Small Business Administration that provided forgivable loans to small businesses for job retention and certain other related business expenses.
Miguel Vittorio
According to court records, Vittorio admitted that he submitted two PPP loan applications in March 2021 that contained false and fraudulent information. In both applications, Vittorio included false information about the number employees and the amount of monthly payroll. He also submitted false and fraudulent documentation in connection with these loans in an effort to substantiate the false information included on the applications. Vittorio additionally admitted that he submitted a fraudulent PPP loan application on behalf of another individual which also included false information and fraudulent supporting documentation. In total, as a result of the fraudulent loans, Vittorio and others received approximately $126,800 in fraudulent PPP loan proceeds.
Vittorio pleaded guilty to bank fraud last week and Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill will sentence Vittorio on June 16, 2025. The charge in this case is punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 and up to 5 years of supervised release.
Yessenia Casillas
During her change of plea hearing, Casillas admitted that in February 2021, she submitted two PPP loan applications on behalf of two businesses that contained false information about the number of employees and the amount of payroll. Casillas also submitted fraudulent documentation with the PPP loan applications in an effort to substantiate the false information included on the loans. As a result of the fraudulent loan applications, Casillas and others received approximately $74,500 in fraudulent loan proceeds.
Casillas pleaded guilty to bank fraud in January and Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill will sentence Casillas on April 29, 2025. The charge in this case is punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 and up to 5 years of supervised release.
Luis Vasquez
According to facts admitted at his change of plea, Vasquez engaged in a bank fraud scheme in April 2021 to fraudulently obtain a PPP loan by submitting an application that contained false information about the purported business’s employees and amount of payroll. Additionally, false and fraudulent documentation was submitted in connection with the loan application including falsified tax documents and payroll reports. As a result of the fraudulent PPP loan application, Vasquez and others received approximately $51,614.
Vasquez pleaded guilty in January and U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford will sentence Vasquez on April 16, 2025. The charge in this case is punishable by up to 30 years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $250,000 and up to 5 years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the investigations by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and the U.S. Small Business Administration, Office of Inspector General, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S Attorney Brittney Campbell prosecuted the cases.
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Pocatello Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking FentanylRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Geoffrey W. Ancheta, 40, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 9 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, members of the BADGES Task Force stopped Ancheta and his co-defendant, Alme Otto, as they returned from a trip to Arizona on April 13, 2024. Task Force officers searched the car and found over 500 grams of blue fentanyl pills and a firearm. Ancheta later admitted trafficking fentanyl to Idaho.
A federal grand jury indicted Ancheta and Otto in July 2024. Ancheta pleaded guilty to possession of fentanyl with intent to distribute on October 23, 2024. On April 14, 2025, the Honorable Chief District Judge David C. Nye sentenced Ancheta to 9 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. Otto has entered a guilty plea and is awaiting sentencing set on June 30, 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. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe H. McLane prosecuted the case.
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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American Falls Housing Authority Executive Director Sentenced for EmbezzlementRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Bruce Hauber, 72, of American Falls, was sentenced to five years of probation for federal program theft after embezzling $129,022.38 from a federally funded public housing authority, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, the American Falls Housing Authority (AFHA) is a federally funded public housing authority that manages public housing in American Falls. Between 2019 and 2023, Hauber was employed as the Executive Director of AFHA and was tasked with paying bills, purchasing supplies, collecting rent, and managing bank accounts.
Beginning in spring 2019, Hauber began to make purchases on AFHA credit cards for unauthorized personal expenses, such as meals, airplane tickets, utilities for his home, medical expenses, and purchases at retailers. In total, between spring 2019 through 2023, Hauber made $129,022.38 in unauthorized personal expenses. Hauber used AFHA funds to make payments for those personal expenses. To conceal the embezzlement, Hauber wrote fictitious checks to venders and entered the checks into AFHA’s internal accounting system.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Hauber to pay $79,022.38 in restitution and imposed eight months of home detention with location monitoring as a condition of probation.
“Our office will vigorously investigate and prosecute cases involving theft of public money,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott. “Bruce Hauber stole from the American taxpayer and deprived American Falls residents vital public housing funds.”
“Hauber deliberately orchestrated a fraudulent scheme to embezzle more than $125,000 in federal funds designated to provide housing assistance for elderly and disabled residents in American Falls, Idaho—a community of roughly, 4,500 people,” said Special Agent in Charge Machelle Jindra with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), Office of Inspector General (OIG). “The theft was especially harmful given the limited resources available to support the community. HUD OIG remains committed to working alongside our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our law enforcement and oversight partners to aggressively pursue individuals who compromise the integrity of HUD programs and exploit communities in need.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, Office of Inspector General, and Federal Bureau of Investigation, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sean Mazorol and Jack Haycock prosecuted the case.
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11 Defendants Sentenced for Their Role in a Conspiracy to Traffic Fentanyl from the Mexico Border to IdahoRead the Press Release
BOISE – A large-scale Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) investigation and prosecution resulted in the conviction of 11 Idaho defendants on federal drug trafficking charges, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. The investigation involved the cooperative efforts of 10 federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies.
According to court records, beginning in early 2023, Idaho State Police (ISP) detectives received a tip that Austin Lee was distributing large quantities of fentanyl in southern Idaho. In coordination with the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and other agencies, ISP detectives worked quickly to investigate Lee and identify the source of these drugs. Investigators conducted multiple controlled purchases of fentanyl and methamphetamine from Lee and other co-conspirators, to include Jamie Coltrin, Jenika Johnson, Brandon Dana, Tina Morris, and Daniel Coltrin.
In July 2023, the investigation expanded to include Lee’s Mexico-based drug supplier and other co-conspirators. The investigation revealed that recent parolees were recruited into the conspiracy prior to their release from prison. These conspirators helped traffic fentanyl from the United States/Mexico border to distribute in Idaho. Additional conspirators accepted payment for the drugs. From this, investigators identified additional co-conspirators Arafat Ramirez, Rosa Ramirez, Laila Ramirez-Martinez, Sammy Martinez, and Rachel Dixon.
The investigation was extensive and resulted in the seizure of over 48,000 fentanyl pills and four pounds of methamphetamine. This significantly hindered the flow of fentanyl into Idaho, and the Magic Valley area.
As part of this OCDETF investigation, the following individuals have been sentenced for federal drug violations:
- Austin Chad Lee, 29, of Twin Falls, was sentenced to 140 months in prison for distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl;
- Arafat Ramirez, 43, of Jerome, was sentenced to 140 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
- Brandon Aaron Dana, 37, of Leadore, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for distribution of fentanyl;
- Tina Jane Morris, 46, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 97 months in prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and methamphetamine;
- Sammy Davey Martinez, 49, of Nampa, was sentenced to 78 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
- Jamie Lee Coltrin, 36, of Rupert, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for distribution of fentanyl;
- Jenika Ann Johnson, 31, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 48 months in prison for distribution of fentanyl;
- Daniel Ross Coltrin, 40, of Paul, was sentenced to 25 months in prison for attempted possession with intent to distribute fentanyl;
- Rosa Ramirez, of Jerome, 64, was sentenced to 24 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl;
- Rachel Dixon, 36, of Boise, was sentenced to 3 years’ probation for distribution of fentanyl; and
- Laila Vanessa Ramirez-Martinez, 35, of Jerome, was sentenced to two years’ probation for false statement.
“The success of this investigation is the direct result of cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement agencies” Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said. “Protecting Idahoans from dangerous drugs flowing up from the Mexico border is one of our highest law enforcement priorities, and I commend each of the agencies involved for their outstanding work achieving justice in this case.”
“We are proud the State of Idaho works so well with our federal partners to protect the public,” said Governor Brad Little. “The goal of our Operation Esto Perpetua initiative is to equip law enforcement with the training and tools they need to keep Idaho safe. Today’s announcement about the conviction of 11 drug traffickers demonstrates what Idaho is doing is working.”
"The DEA and our partners will work tirelessly to stop drug traffickers from flooding our communities with drugs and violence," said David. F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. "Two milligrams of fentanyl is considered a potentially lethal dose. The amount of fentanyl seized in this case had the potential to kill more than 46,000 people, that would more than fill the football stadium at Boise State."
The cases were primarily investigated by the Idaho State Police and the Drug Enforcement Administration. In addition to the work of these agencies, Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott thanked the following agencies for assisting in the investigations and arrests of the above-named individuals: Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office, Minidoka County Sheriff’s Office, Cassia County Sheriff’s Office, Pocatello Police Department, Nampa Police Department, Ada County Sheriff’s Office, Garden City Police Department, and the Idaho Department of Correction.
These indictments are 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.
Since the inauguration of President Trump, the Department of Justice is playing a critical role in Operation Take back America, a nationwide initiative to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from 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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Violent Carjacker Sentenced to Nearly 16 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jordan L. Davis, 34, of Nampa, was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison for carjacking and unlawful possession of a firearm, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced.
According to court records, on July 31, 2024, Davis and another individual entered the victim’s home in Nampa, Idaho. Once inside, Davis entered the victim’s bedroom, drew a firearm, pointed it at the victim’s head, and threatened to kill him if he did not comply with Davis’ demands. Davis stole several of the victim’s personal belongings and his vehicle.
After the victim called 911, law enforcement found Davis driving the stolen vehicle on the freeway. Davis ignored law enforcement’s attempts to stop him and led officers on a high-speed chase, that at times exceeded 100 mph. Law enforcement eventually stopped Davis after performing a PIT maneuver. When officers approached Davis, they saw him holding a firearm. Davis refused to comply with officers’ repeated commands to drop the firearm and get out of the car. After a nearly 20-minute standoff involving multiple law enforcement agencies, Davis eventually surrendered.
“Thanks to the heroic efforts of the Nampa Police Department, the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Idaho State Police, no one was injured during this dangerous incident.” Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott stated. “This sentence appropriately reflects the serious nature of the crimes and ensures that a violent felon is no longer free to victimize members of our community.”
“This case is a stark reminder of how quickly violent crime can escalate and put lives at risk,” added Canyon County Sheriff Kieran Donahue. “I’m proud of the courage and professionalism our deputies showed that day, working alongside our law enforcement partners to bring this dangerous individual into custody without anyone being harmed. I appreciate the work of Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott and his team for their work in prosecuting this case and putting this dangerous individual behind bars.”
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Davis to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence and to pay over $37,000.00 in restitution.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Nampa Police Department, the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Idaho State Police, which led to Davis’ arrest and subsequent charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this 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. For more information about Project Safe Neighborhoods, please visit Justice.gov/PSN.
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Norteño Gang Member Sentenced to 7 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Hector Aguirre, 28, of Caldwell, was sentenced to 7 years in federal prison for unlawful possession of a firearm and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, in June 2023, officers contacted Aguirre during a traffic stop. Officers learned that Aguirre had absconded from supervision with the Idaho Department of Correction’s Probation and Parole. Officers searched Aguirre’s vehicle and found a loaded firearm and 66 fentanyl pills. Aguirre is prohibited from possessing firearms due to previous drug-related felony convictions. The investigation revealed that Aguirre is a Norteño gang member.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Caldwell Police Department, which led to the charges. 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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Southern California Man Sentenced to 13 Years in Federal Prison for Involvement in a Fentanyl Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
BOISE – Brian Arthur Goodale, 56, of Lake Elsinore, California, was sentenced to 13 years in federal prison for distributing fentanyl, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin D. Whatcott announced today. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford, also ordered that Goodale pay restitution to the family of the victim to cover funeral expenses and to serve three years of supervised release following his prison term.
According to court records, on March 16, 2023, law enforcement conducted a welfare check on the victim who had not responded to calls or knocks on the door. They found the deceased victim with a small drug tube clutched in his hand and a small piece of tin foil next to him. A toxicology report and autopsy showed that the victim had a lethal dose of fentanyl in his system at the time of death. The investigation revealed Facebook messages between the victim and Goodale. Goodale sent a message that said, “shoot the $100 and I’ll send it now . . . 3pk . . . but I’m gonna need the $200 on Wed. if your still alive!!” The investigation revealed that the victim purchased fentanyl from Goodale, who shipped the fentanyl through the Post Office in Chula Vista, California to Boise, Idaho. Goodale has an extensive criminal history that includes 29 prior convictions in the state of California, 20 of which are controlled substance offenses. At the time he sold the fentanyl to the victim in Idaho, Goodale was on felony probation for offering a controlled substance for sale, fentanyl, in Riverside County, California.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50–100 times stronger than morphine. Pharmaceutical fentanyl was developed for severe pain management and prescribed in the form of transdermal patches or lozenges. While prescription fentanyl can be diverted for misuse, most cases of fentanyl-related overdoses in the U.S. are linked to Mexican Drug Trafficking Organizations, who are the world’s leading producers of illicit fentanyl. These Drug Trafficking Organizations often collaborate with transnational cartels to smuggle illicit fentanyl into the U.S.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the Boise Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the United States Postal Inspection Service for their investigation in this case, which led to the charge. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christian S. Nafzger prosecuted the case.
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Executive Pleads Guilty to a Seven-Count Indictment Two Weeks Before Trial, Admits to Longstanding Antitrust and Wire Fraud Conspiracies Affecting Wildfire ServicesRead the Press Release
The owner of a contractor company that provided fuel truck services to the U.S. Forest Service’s wildfire fighters pleaded guilty to a seven-count indictment yesterday for his role in schemes to rig bids, allocate territories, and commit wire fraud over an eight-year period. Kris Bird, 62, pleaded guilty to all charges against him two weeks before trial, with no assurances from the government as to the sentence prosecutors will recommend to the judge. The plea follows a judicially authorized wiretap investigation that led to the indictment of two executives in December 2023. Both executives pleaded guilty and are now scheduled to be sentenced in June 2025.
As set out in the factual basis filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho, Bird admitted to conspiring with Ike Tomlinson, 61, and others to rig bids and allocate territories in the market for wildfire-fighting fuel truck services for certain dispatch centers of the U.S. Forest Service’s Great Basin wildfire dispatch region between March 2015 and March 2023, in violation of Section 1 of the Sherman Act. Bird further admitted to conspiring to commit wire fraud during the same period, and to committing five acts of wire fraud. At the change-of-plea hearing, Bird also admitted to the forfeiture allegations in the indictment.
“Bid-rigging and other collusive, anticompetitive agreements are neither sophisticated nor lawful. As the defendants have now conceded, they selfishly damaged essential taxpayer-funded services critical to protecting the American public from wildfires,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail Slater of the Justice Department’s Antitrust Division. “The meticulous investigation led by the Antitrust Division’s Procurement Collusion Strike Force and its law enforcement partners left the defendant with little choice but to plead to the indictment. The Justice Department will not treat bid-rigging as business as usual.”
“Citizens and Idaho businesses must have access to fair competition for government contracts,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott for the District of Idaho. “The guilty pleas in this case help ensure equal opportunities for all Idaho businesses and protects taxpayers from paying inflated contract prices.”
"The defendant illegally profited from American taxpayer money," said Special Agent in Charge Mehtab Syed of the FBI Salt Lake City Field Office. "The FBI and our partners are committed to rooting out fraud and protecting fair competition in the bidding for government contracts."
"We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to fight fraud in federal contracting,” said Assistant Inspector General for Investigations James Adams of the General Services Administration Office of Inspector General.
A violation of the Sherman Act carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million fine for individuals and a maximum penalty of a $100 million fine for corporations. The maximum fine may be increased to twice the gain derived from the crime or twice the loss suffered by victims if either amount is greater than the maximum. A violation of the wire fraud statute carries 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.
The Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office, U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho, FBI Salt Lake City Field Office, Boise Resident Agency, and General Services Administration Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant Chief Christopher J. Carlberg and Trial Attorneys Elena A. Goldstein, Daniel B. Twomey, and Matthew Chou of the Antitrust Division's San Francisco Office, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Sean M. Mazorol for the District of Idaho are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about this investigation or other procurement fraud schemes should notify the PCSF at www.justice.gov/atr/webform/pcsf-citizen-complaint. The Justice Department created the PCSF in November 2019. It is a joint law enforcement effort to combat antitrust crimes and related fraudulent schemes that impact government procurement, grant and program funding at all levels of government—federal, state and local. For more information, visit www.justice.gov/procurement-collusion-strike-force.
Pocatello Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Steven Greenleaf Blodgett, 67, of Pocatello, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, in July 2024, officers with the BADGES Task Force executed a search warrant on Blodgett’s rental car as he returned to Bannock County from a trip to Utah. Officers found and seized approximately four pounds of methamphetamine. Officers then executed a second search warrant on Blodgett’s residence in Pocatello, where they found a loaded firearm and evidence of drug distribution at the home.
A federal grand jury indicted Blodgett in August 2024. Blodgett entered a guilty plea on November 19, 2024. Chief United States District Judge David C. Nye sentenced Blodgett to 10 years in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release on March 17, 2025.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Idaho State Police, the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, the Pocatello Police Department, and the Chubbuck Police Department, which participated as part of the BADGES Task Force. The Bingham County Sheriff’s Office and the Blackfoot Police Department also participated in the investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe H. McLane prosecuted the case.
This case was 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 crimes in Bannock County and throughout the region.
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Sinaloa Cartel Leader in Idaho Sentenced to 22 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – A 44-year-old Honduran national suspected to be unlawfully in the United States and using the name “Hector Ojeda Manuel Aponte” was sentenced yesterday to 262 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced.
According to court records, Aponte was distributing approximately 40 pounds of methamphetamine every one to two weeks, along with fentanyl pills and bath salts. Aponte had multiple vehicles to transport and distribute drugs, stash houses to hide the drugs, and business fronts to launder his illicit drug proceeds. According to multiple sources, Aponte was the “number one guy” for the Sinaloa Cartel in the State of Idaho. He had a well-established supply chain and a distribution network consisting of other accomplices.
Aponte is the sixth and final defendant sentenced from the investigation conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit. U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also previously sentenced Ernesto Diaz Gaspar (30 months in prison), Wilkin Rolando Martinez Munguia (36 months in prison), Cevin Alfonzo Martinez (42 months in prison), and Jesus DeJesus Loera (70 months in prison). Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye sentenced Lawrence Barnes (160 months in prison). Defendants Barnes and Loera are U.S. Citizens, while the remaining defendants are aliens unlawfully present in the United States.
“The United States Department of Justice is committed to eliminating the threat posed by Mexican drug cartels and their distribution of narcotics in Idaho." Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott said. “Along with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, we will continue to hold them accountable for bringing poisonous drugs into our state.”
“Illegal immigration and drug trafficking are interconnected threats because Foreign Terrorist Organizations like the Sinaloa Cartel routinely employ people like this defendant to further their drug enterprises,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “I am gratified that we, at the Drug Enforcement Administration, along with our partners at the Nampa Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, succeeded in holding this defendant accountable for his serious crimes targeting our community, resulting in this lengthy prison sentence. Justice was served yesterday.”
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, which led to the convictions and sentences. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
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Fort Hall Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Robbery at KnifepointRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Malik Marin Ish, 23, of Fort Hall, was sentenced to 5 years in prison for robbery, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. Chief U.S. District Court Judge David C. Nye sentenced Ish on March 3, 2025, to 54.5 months in federal prison in addition to the 8.5 months of tribal jail time, which Ish served leading up to his sentencing.
According to court records, on February 19, 2024, Ish approached a man getting gasoline in his Jeep Cherokee at a gas station in Fort Hall and demanded the man’s vehicle at knifepoint. The man and Ish struggled for a time and Ish tried to stab him. Ish took the Jeep and crashed it a short distance away. Fort Hall Police officers located Ish later that day and recognized Ish as the robbery suspect, based on the unique red clothing he was wearing. Police officers also obtained video surveillance from the gas station, which showed Ish as the robber.
Chief Judge Nye also ordered Ish to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Ish pleaded guilty to the charge in December 2024. Ish will also concurrently serve 21 months for a supervised release violation from an earlier conviction.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott thanked the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Fort Hall Police Department for their joint investigation in this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Haycock prosecuted this case.
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Teton County Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Jesus M. Beltran-Zazusta, a/k/a Jesus Zazueta-Beltran, 26, a Mexican national unlawfully in the United States and living in Victor, was sentenced to nine years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today.
According to court records, law enforcement officers identified Beltran-Zazusta as the source of supply of methamphetamine for multiple local distributors in Teton and Bonneville Counties. In November 2023, law enforcement tracked Beltran-Zazusta as he returned to Idaho from a short trip to California. They followed him to an Idaho Falls residence that belonged to co-defendant Ana Costilla-Delgado. Officers seized a pound of methamphetamine from co-defendant Jorge Hernandez Venegas as he left the house. The Idaho Falls Police Department executed a search warrant at the residence where they located nine pounds of methamphetamine in Costilla-Delgado’s bedroom. Officers had previously identified Beltran-Zazusta as the source of methamphetamine for Fredy Munoz-Morales, of Victor, in a related investigation that occurred in April 2023.
In January 2024, a federal grand jury in Pocatello indicted Beltran-Zazusta. The Honorable Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye sentenced him to nine years in federal prison on March 3, 2025. He also ordered Beltran-Zazusta to complete four years of supervised release after he serves his prison sentence. However, Beltran-Zazusta will likely be deported to Mexico after serving his prison sentence.
Chief Judge Nye also sentenced Costilla-Delgado to twelve and a half years in federal prison on January 6, 2025, Venegas to nine years in federal prison on December 2, 2024, and Munoz-Morales to twelve and a half years in federal prison on June 28, 2024.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the work of the Idaho Falls Police Department, the Teton County Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe H. McLane prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National Sentenced to 27 Months in Federal Prison for Immigration OffenseRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jose Salvador Alcaraz-Curiel, 31, a Mexican national, was sentenced to 27 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, Alcaraz-Curiel is a native and citizen of Mexico and is not a citizen of the United States. The United States lawfully removed Alcaraz-Curiel from the country in October 2018 and September 2020. After his second removal from the United States, Alcaraz-Curiel again re-entered the United States illegally and without lawful authority. Special agents with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) encountered Alcaraz-Curiel in Canyon County in March 2024. Alcaraz-Curiel has history of state misdemeanor and felony convictions in Idaho, as well as a 2020 federal conviction in the District of Arizona for being a deported alien found in the United States.
Acting U.S. Attorney Whatcott commended the efforts of ICE for their work on this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis J. Zebari prosecuted this case.
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Texas Woman Pleaded Guilty to Fraudulently Obtaining Emergency Rental Assistance Under A COVID-19 Relief ProgramRead the Press Release
BOISE – Tanisha Gray, 39, of Houston, Texas, pleaded guilty to wire fraud, Acting U.S. Attorney Justin Whatcott announced today. Gray fraudulently obtained emergency rental assistance from Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) and other states’ housing programs that were providing housing assistance for individuals unable to pay rent due to a financial hardship related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
In early 2021, Congress established the Emergency Rental Assistance (ERA) program to provide financial assistance to eligible low-income households to cover the costs of rent, rental arrears, utilities, and other housing-related expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic. IHFA was an administrator of the ERA program for the state of Idaho and received federal funds to provide housing assistance during the pandemic. IHFA provided emergency rent and utility assistance to eligible Idaho renters who had experienced a financial hardship due to or during the COVID-19 pandemic. Eligible households could receive assistance with their rental arrearages, plus three months of future rent, and utility assistance, if requested.
According to court records, from in or around 2022 through 2023, Gray sought rental assistance from the IHFA and other housing programs by submitting false and fraudulent applications that falsely identified herself as a landlord for various properties. As part of the scheme, Gray also submitted fraudulent supporting documentation including fictitious leases, property management agreements, ledgers for rental arrears, tenant income records, addresses, and certifications of eligibility. As a result of the fraudulent applications Gray submitted and caused to be submitted to the various emergency rental assistance programs in Idaho and other states, Gray received more than $62,000 in fraud proceeds.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill will sentence Gray on May 14, 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 investigations by the Boise Police Department and the United States Secret Service, as well as the assistance of the Idaho Housing and Finance Association, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S Attorney Brittney Campbell is prosecuting this case.
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U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit Concludes Service as Top Federal Law Enforcement Official for IdahoRead the Press Release
BOISE – Josh Hurwit, 44, of Boise, concluded his service today as United States Attorney for the District of Idaho, the top federal law enforcement position in the state. It is customary for political appointees to depart at the start of a new presidential administration. Hurwit thanked President Biden for nominating him and Senators Jim Risch and Mike Crapo for their support during the nomination and confirmation process.
“It has been the honor of my professional life to serve as United States Attorney, and I am profoundly grateful to my colleagues and to all those who joined with us to fight crime and ensure justice for all Idahoans,” said former U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Leading a team of dedicated and extremely talented public servants has been a privilege every single day. The professionals in the U.S. Attorney’s Office exemplify the highest standards of excellence in their commitment to justice. Alongside our local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement partners, we have used collaborative strategies to address the most pressing threats to Idaho communities, like fentanyl trafficking and the online exploitation of children. Our efforts have made an impact, and I have no doubt that this office will continue to positively impact our communities and ensure Idaho remains a wonderful place to live.”
During U.S. Attorney Hurwit’s tenure, the office redoubled its efforts to dismantle cartel-connected networks responsible for bringing dangerous drugs into Idaho. Working with its law enforcement partners, the office successfully prosecuted several drug trafficking conspiracies involving more than 10 defendants, including the Perez-Gomez, et. al. case in Jerome and the Cisneros-Guzman, et. al. set of cases in Canyon County. As the Perez-Gomez prosecution shows, the U.S. Attorney’s Office focused on ensuring that state and local enforcement can use federal prosecution in all parts of Idaho, even more rural areas hours away from a federal courthouse. The office also is now poised to host a new Special Assistant U.S. Attorney in its Coeur d’Alene branch office as a result of a partnership between the State of Idaho, Shoshone County, and other counties and cities in North Idaho.
The office remained focused on the opioid epidemic and the deadly scourge of illicit fentanyl, prosecuting 13 cases against drug dealers whose conduct led to a death due to the use of illicit fentanyl. The Basil, Walsh, and Goforth cases exemplify the office’s commitment to holding fentanyl dealers accountable and deterring other dealers from selling fentanyl in Idaho.
Under U.S. Attorney Hurwit’s leadership, the office also addressed fentanyl through robust training and awareness programs across Idaho:
- Along with federal and state partners, the office designed and conducted multiple two‑day fentanyl enforcement trainings for local law enforcement. These trainings provided up‑to‑date intelligence and covered investigation best practices for approximately two dozen agencies, including many in rural Idaho.
- With the DEA and the Idaho Office of Drug Policy, the office held the first Fentanyl Family Summit in Idaho, which provided support to the families of eight victims of fentanyl poisoning and, through the courageous and selfless efforts, raised awareness about fentanyl.
- The office also supported Idaho’s first Fentanyl Youth Summit, which brought together middle school students from three school districts to design projects in their schools to raise awareness about dangerous drugs and support healthy decision-making.
The office also continued to grow its Project Safe Childhood program, through which the office prosecutes child exploitation crimes. Since June 2022, 135 such cases were sentenced or charged. The Aguayo case from Pocatello, the Malone case from Boise, and the Richmond case from Post Falls are representative examples of how Project Safe Childhood removes dangerous predators from all parts of Idaho. This program is positioned to continue to excel through a broad array of partnerships, among them joint efforts with the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force at the Idaho Office of the Attorney General and the Treasure Valley Human Trafficking Task Force.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office also remained focused on violent crime trends even as the violent crime rate declined in Idaho consistent with national trends. Through the Project Safe Neighborhoods initiative, the office’s prosecutors partnered with local and state law enforcement to target violent offenders in Idaho communities. The Bright, Logan, and Rhynecases are prime examples. In eastern Idaho, the prosecution of Morales, et. al. broke up a dangerous criminal network through which drugs from the southern border were exchanged for firearms in Idaho, some of which were recovered at crime scenes in Idaho and states across the region.
During U.S. Attorney Hurwit’s tenure, the office also dedicated increased resources to financial fraud. U.S. Attorney Hurwit established a COVID-19 Fraud Task Force to investigate illegal misuse of pandemic relief funds. So far, this effort has resulted in cases against 17 criminal defendants and civil settlements with four defendants. The amount of fraud associated with these cases is over $8.5 million. The office’s prosecutors also obtained guilty jury verdicts against (i) defendants in Meridian who sold counterfeit electronic devices made in China, (ii) a defendant who defrauded his partners in a Rexburg construction project, and (iii) a defendant from Coeur d’Alene who committed financial fraud as part of his forestry management business. The office’s civil enforcement attorneys obtained $5.9 million in judgments and settlements in cases involving health care fraud and procurement fraud.
The office also emphasized civil rights and hate crimes enforcement, including by hosting “United Against Hate” forums with the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, the Nez Perce Tribe, the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, and the Kootenai Tribe of Idaho, among many other partners. The office was proud to strengthen its government-to-government relationships with Idaho’s sovereign Native American Tribes in other ways—for example, co‑hosting a regional law enforcement workshop with the Nez Perce Tribe.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit streamlined the office’s financial collection and asset forfeiture functions into a reorganized Asset Recovery Division. This team collected approximately $17.25 million in criminal and civil judgments, fines, restitution, and forfeiture. These funds were returned to victims and taxpayers.
Between 2012 and his confirmation as U.S. Attorney in 2022, Hurwit served as an Assistant U.S. Attorney in Idaho, first in the Civil Division and then the Criminal Division. He primarily prosecuted complex financial and environmental crimes, and he led the investigation into the Aryan Knights white supremacist prison gang, which resulted in charges against 10 defendants under the Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) Act. In 2015, he received the Director’s Award for Excellence by a Litigative Team for his work as part of the team that successfully prosecuted United States v. Swenson et. al., the securities and wire fraud case arising from the collapse of DBSI, Inc. Prior to government service, Hurwit worked at the law firms of Covington & Burling LLP and Kirkland & Ellis in San Francisco, and Paul, Weiss, Rifkind, Wharton & Garrison LLP in New York City. After law school, Hurwit clerked for U.S. District Judge Naomi Reice Buchwald in the Southern District of New York.
During his tenure as U.S. Attorney, Hurwit served on numerous Attorney General Advisory Council subcommittees. He was the Chair of the Border and Immigration Subcommittee, the Chair of the Hate Crimes Working Group within the Civil Rights Subcommittee, and served on the White Collar Crime and Cyber and Intellectual Property Subcommittees.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit proudly worked to strengthen relations between his office and tribal, state, and local law enforcement agencies, traveling to 40 of Idaho’s 44 counties to meet with sheriffs, police chiefs, and county prosecuting attorneys.
As provided for under the Vacancies Reform Act, the First Assistant U.S. Attorney will immediately assume office as Acting U.S. Attorney until further action by the new administration.
“I am excited to watch the office’s continued success,” said former U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Every member of the team has the highest professional and ethical standards and, together with our law enforcement partners, they will ensure that the administration of justice will continue seamlessly in the District of Idaho.”
The District of Idaho covers all counties and five tribal reservations across the state. The U.S. Attorney’s Office, with staffed offices in Boise, Pocatello, and Coeur d’Alene, employs 31 attorneys and 28 support staff who are responsible for conducting all criminal and civil litigation in the district involving the United States government. U.S. Attorney Hurwit had the distinct privilege of hiring 15 of these career public servants.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit will continue to reside in Boise and has not yet decided on his future professional plans.
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Ontario Drug Trafficker Sentenced to Nearly 13 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Ricardo Rodriguez, 61, of Ontario, Oregon, was sentenced to 155 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, Rodriguez was a member of a drug trafficking organization operating out of eastern Oregon. Rodriguez supplied several of his co-conspirators with methamphetamine for redistribution in Idaho. The investigation revealed that Rodriguez was distributing approximately 20 pounds of methamphetamine per week.
On January 24, 2024, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant at Rodriguez’s residence. There, they found an unlawfully possessed .40 caliber firearm, several thousand dollars in U.S. currency, a bag with hundreds of fentanyl pills, and another with an ounce of methamphetamine.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Rodriguez to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
“This is another example of our law enforcement partners working together to ensure that drug traffickers are held accountable for distributing controlled substances in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Traffickers will not evade prosecution for dealing drugs here in Idaho simply because they live across state lines.”
“Methamphetamine traffickers like Mr. Rodriguez profit from the pain they cause selling poison to our neighbors,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “I am gratified that the DEA and our partners were able to stop the threat he posed to our communities and that he received this richly deserved accountability.”
“Teamwork is critical to stop drug trafficking groups. This case started in our community, but crossed many jurisdictional boundaries, to include the state line into Oregon,” said Nampa Police Sergeant Shane Huston. “If we didn’t have effective partnerships, we would not be as successful as we are in catching these career criminals. We’ll keep working hard and working together because we do not want this type of activity in Nampa.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, 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.
This case was 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.
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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Drug Trafficker Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Robert Paul Anthony Aragon, 31, of California, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, Aragon was stopped for a traffic violation in Owyhee County. During the stop, a K9 trained in the detection of the odor of a controlled substance conducted an open-air sniff around Aragon’s vehicle and positively alerted to the presence of the odor of a controlled substance. Officers conducted a search of the vehicle and discovered 25 pounds of methamphetamine, 2.2 pounds (one kilo) of cocaine, and a Glock 27 firearm with an extended magazine carrying 22 rounds of ammunition.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Aragon to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Owyhee County Sheriff’s Office, and the Idaho State Police, which led to the charges and arrest. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
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Former Teacher Sentenced to over 11 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing and Receiving Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOISE – Chad Joseph Longley, 45, of Boise, was sentenced to 141 months in federal prison with 20 years of supervised release for one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, investigators with the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force received a tip that Longley possessed child sexual abuse material. ICAC investigators investigated and corroborated this tip which led to a search warrant authorizing law enforcement to search Longley’s residence and digital devices. While executing the search warrant, investigators seized digital devices belonging to Longley. A computer forensic examiner discovered child sexual abuse material on the devices. During an interview, investigators advised Longley of his Miranda rights and he admitted to possessing the child sexual abuse material.
In July 2021, a grand jury charged Longley with the crime of possession of child pornography. While awaiting sentencing, Longley and the Government engaged forensic computer experts to further review the digital devices. This review revealed additional criminal conduct beyond possession of child sexual abuse material.
According to court records, around 2017, Longley had a fake profile of a young female on a social media platform. Posing as a young female, he became social media friends with one of his former students. He tricked the former student into sending him child sexual abuse material. The victim was unaware that it was his teacher using a fake persona when he sent the child sexual abuse material. In March 2024, Longley was indicted by a grand jury for the additional criminal conduct. Longley entered into a new plea agreement, whereby he pleaded guilty to the crime of receiving child pornography and agreed to a jointly recommend a sentence of 141 months in prison with 20 years of supervised release.
On February 4, 2025, Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill followed the recommendations and sentenced Longley to 48 months in federal prison followed by 20 years of supervised release in his first case involving the possession of child pornography, and to 141 months in federal prison followed by 20 years of supervised release in his second case involving the receipt of child pornography. The two sentences will run concurrently to each other.
“The defendant’s actions in taking advantage of a former student are particularly heinous, and he deserves this lengthy prison sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Our office is fortunate to have outstanding prosecutors who work tirelessly to hold child predators accountable and seek justice for victims. The result in this case would not have been possible without their dedication and that of our law enforcement partners.”
“The actions of this former teacher are reprehensible,” said Attorney General Raúl Labrador. “This sentence represents the hard work of ICAC’s investigators, the federal prosecutor, and the team of professionals committed to stopping these crimes. I’m grateful for their commitment to keep our kids safe from abuse and exploitation, and for the courts that recognize the seriousness of these crimes.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Idaho ICAC Task Force, which led to the charges. 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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Two Women Sentenced to Federal Prison for Roles in Separate Eastern Idaho Fentanyl Distribution CasesRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the outcomes in two separate eastern Idaho cases in which the defendants were sentenced to 6.5 years and over 4 years in federal prison, respectively, for fentanyl distribution.
“These cases again demonstrate our unwavering commitment to tackling fentanyl trafficking and keeping this poison out of our communities, including tribal lands,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “I am grateful to the law enforcement partners and our prosecutors and staff who make these successes possible.”
In one case, Rebecca Marie Lavatta, 33, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced on January 28, 2025, to 78 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court records, on May 17, 2023, following a year-long investigation, detectives with the Idaho Falls Police Department, Idaho State Police, and Pocatello Police Department, located Lavatta in Pocatello, and arrested her on outstanding warrants. During a search of her vehicle, law enforcement recovered two loaded handguns, suboxone, and a heat-sealed clear bag containing 5,000 fentanyl pills.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Lavatta to serve five years of supervised release following her prison sentence. Lavatta pleaded guilty to the charge in July 2024.
In a separate case, Kristen Nichole Meyer, 28, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced on January 29, 2025, to 57 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court records, on August 18, 2023, Fort Hall Police officers responded to the area of the Fort Hall Casino on a report of a couple who appeared to be fighting. Officers located Kristen Meyer, along with her husband, Andrew Meyer near their car, which had fentanyl pills in plain view. Bingham County Sheriff’s deputies searched the car and found over 12,000 fentanyl pills, along with other drugs. Both Kristen and Andrew Meyer admitted to selling the drugs. Andrew Meyer’s sentencing is scheduled for March 17, 2025.
Chief Judge Nye also ordered Meyer to serve three years of supervised release following her prison sentence. Meyer pleaded guilty to the offense in September 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the Idaho Falls Police Department, the Idaho State Police, and the Pocatello Police Department for their work in the Lavatta case as well as the Fort Hall Police Department and the Bingham County Sheriff’s Office for the Meyer investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Paskett prosecuted the Lavatta case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Haycock prosecuted the Meyer case.
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Out-of-State Defendant Sentenced to Federal Prison for Conspiracy with Intent to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Ayana R. Bacon, 25, of Box Elder, Montana, was sentenced to 24 months in federal prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court records, Bacon was a passenger in a car which was stopped in Shoshone County, Idaho on September 22, 2023. The individuals in the car had picked up a large quantity of fentanyl pills in Washington and were taking them to Montana to distribute them.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered that Bacon be placed on supervised release for three years following her prison sentence. Bacon pleaded guilty to the charge in August 2024.
“Fentanyl is a deadly threat and, along with our dedicated federal and state law enforcement partners, we are focused on shutting it out of Idaho,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “This means prosecuting those who bring it into Idaho communities as well as those using our highways to take loads to another state. Either way, we will hold you accountable.”
“Fentanyl traffickers prey on the misery of victims of substance use disorder for their own profit,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “I am gratified that DEA and our partners could hold this defendant accountable for her role in fentanyl trafficking to rural America.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Idaho State Police for their collaboration in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryce Ellsworth prosecuted the case.
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Ammon Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Distributing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Chase Phillip Hornaday, 41, of Ammon, was sentenced to 144 months in federal prison for distributing child sexual abuse material, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, officers with the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force began investigating Hornaday in November 2023, after receiving reports that he had possessed and distributed child sexual abuse material. After executing a search warrant on an online file sharing account belonging to Hornaday, ICAC officers uncovered more than 60 images and videos of child sexual abuse material in the account and found evidence that Hornaday had exchanged child sexual abuse material with other individuals online. On January 10, 2024, officers executed a search warrant at Hornaday’s home and recovered his cell phone, which contained an additional 300 images of child sexual abuse material.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Hornaday be placed on supervised release for five years following his prison sentence and ordered that he pay $27,000 in restitution. Hornaday will also be required to register as a sex offender. Hornaday pleaded guilty to the charge on October 23, 2024.
“Another Idaho community is safer because of the teamwork between federal law enforcement, the ICAC Task Force, and local sheriff’s offices and police departments,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “We will continue to spare no effort to find and prosecute those who possess or distribute child sexual abuse material.”
“The sentence reflects the serious nature of child exploitation and sends a clear message that those who prey on the most vulnerable members of our society will be held accountable,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “The investigation and prosecution of these crimes remain a top priority for our agency, and we are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to ensure that offenders are held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.”
“This sentence represents the hard work of ICAC’s investigators,” said Attorney General Raúl Labrador. “I’m grateful for the continued commitment of every participating agency to keep our kids safe from abuse and exploitation, and for the courts that recognize the seriousness of these crimes.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended Homeland Security Investigations in Idaho Falls, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, the Idaho Falls Police Department, and the Idaho ICAC Task Force for the investigation. 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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Two Idaho Men Sentenced to Federal Prison for Separate Sex Crimes Involving Minor ChildrenRead the Press Release
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the outcomes in two separate cases in which the defendants were sentenced to 19.5 years and 6.5 years in federal prison, respectively, for sex crimes against minor children.
Today, Daniel Wade Lowry, 34, of Notus, was sentenced to 235 months in federal prison for sexual exploitation of a child.
According to court records, in September 2023, law enforcement became aware that Lowry was a member of an online group dedicated to the sharing of child sexual abuse material. Pursuant to a federal search warrant, law enforcement seized cellphones belonging to Lowry. Investigators located images and videos of child sexual abuse material on the cellphones, including sexually explicit images that Lowry had produced of a 5-year-old child. Investigators also determined that Lowry had posted the images of the victim in the online group.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered that Lowry serve 15 years of supervised release following his prison sentence and to pay restitution to the victims. Lowry will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
In a separate case, Sean Sterling, 28, of Nampa, was sentenced to 6.5 years in federal prison for possession of child sexual abuse material.
According to court records, the investigation began when law enforcement received CyberTip reports from Discord and Twitter. 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. Law enforcement determined that Discord and Twitter accounts, later identified as belonging to Sterling, had been used to distribute child sexual abuse material.
Law enforcement obtained search warrants for the contents of Sterling’s online accounts and located and images and videos of child sexual abuse material, along with messages that Sterling had sent discussing his sexual interest in children. Law enforcement apprehended Sterling in Las Vegas, Nevada, and seized his cellphone and computer. Pursuant to a search warrant, law enforcement examined his devices and found additional images and videos of child sexual abuse material.
Judge Brailsford also ordered Sterling to be placed on supervised release for 15 years after the end of his prison term and to pay restitution to the victims in the files he possessed. Sterling will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
“The production and endless distribution of child sexual abuse material can haunt victims for life,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “We are steadfast in our commitment to seek justice for child victims and hold child predators accountable for their egregious conduct. Our law enforcement partners share the same mission and together we will do everything possible to protect Idaho’s children.”
“There is no greater betrayal than stealing the innocence of a child, and these sentences are the result of the necessary investigative work to prevent the revictimization of the children in these images,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “It will always be a challenge to find child predators in the many places they may lurk online. HSI will always be committed to working with our partners in every aspect of law enforcement, along with using our private sector partnerships to prevent online crimes committed against children.”
Both cases were investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Boise with assistance from the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force. The Boone Police Department in North Carolina, the Idaho State Police, and the Parma Police Department also assisted with the Lowry investigation. HSI partnered on the Sterling investigation with investigators from the Canyon County Prosecutor’s Office, with additional assistance from HSI Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Metro Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kassandra McGrady and Erin Blackadar prosecuted these cases.
These cases were 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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Justice Department Finds that Idaho Violates Federal Civil Rights Law by Unnecessarily Segregating People with Physical DisabilitiesRead the Press Release
The Justice Department announced today its finding that Idaho unnecessarily segregates adults with physical disabilities in nursing facilities, in violation of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the Supreme Court’s decision in Olmstead v. L.C. The department’s findings, detailed in a letter to Idaho Governor Brad Little, follow a thorough investigation into the state’s service system for people with physical disabilities.
“People with disabilities in Idaho have the right to choose services to remain independent in their own homes instead of being segregated in institutions,” said Assistant Attorney General Kristen Clarke of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The Justice Department is committed to ensuring that people with disabilities can access the services they need to live at home and be full participants in their communities.”
“Older Idahoans and Idahoans with disabilities have the right to remain in their homes as their support needs increase,” said U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit for the District of Idaho. “I trust that Idaho will work to remedy the violations identified by the Justice Department so that individuals with disabilities can remain in their communities and not isolated in institutions.”
The ADA and the Olmstead decision require state and local governments to ensure the services they provide to people with disabilities are available in the most integrated setting appropriate to individuals’ needs. Community-based services can include assistance with daily activities, like showering or transferring from bed to wheelchair. Without community-based services, Idahoans with physical disabilities have little choice but to enter nursing facilities. Many will remain in those nursing facilities for years or decades, when they would prefer to live in the community. And each year of nursing facility care costs Idaho, on average per person, much more than what Idaho spends serving adults with physical disabilities at home.
The department’s investigation found that most Idaho Medicaid-funded nursing facility residents could live successfully at home with services Idaho offers. But Idaho limits access to services to transition out of nursing facilities and to live in the community. As a result, very few Idahoans with physical disabilities can access Idaho’s services to leave nursing facilities and remain at home.
The Civil Rights Division’s Disability Rights Section investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho.
For more information on the ADA, please call the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 1-800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov/topics/community-integration/.
For more information on the Civil Rights Division, please visit www.justice.gov/crt.
Coeur d’Alene Man Sentenced for Multimillion Dollar Accounts Receivable Factoring SchemeRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Douglas Worman, 64, of Coeur d’Alene was sentenced to 46 months in federal prison for his convictions for engaging in a scheme to defraud J.S. Richards Forestry Management out of more than $2.5 million, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. A federal jury convicted Worman of 17 counts of wire fraud relating to his factoring scheme after a six-day trial in August 2024.
According to court records and evidence presented at trial, Worman owned and operated Worman Forest Management, a Coeur d’Alene-area forestry management company. In 2010, Worman, through his company, entered into a factoring agreement with J.S. Richards Forestry Management to sell millions of dollars of Worman Forest Management’s accounts receivable that were based on invoices for work the business had provided to its customers. Factoring is a form of short-term financing in which a business sells its accounts receivable to a third-party at a discount. In a factoring transaction, the seller of an invoice obtains immediate funding from a buyer, and the buyer of an invoice earns a fee for providing the up-front financing.
According to court records, beginning in at least 2015 and continuing through September 2018, Worman submitted inflated and entirely false and fraudulent invoices to J.S. Richards Forestry Management for factoring, purportedly for work Worman’s business had performed for its customers. Between June and September 2018, Worman submitted more than $2 million in false and fraudulent invoices for factoring to J.S. Richards Forestry Management. Those invoices claimed to be for actual work performed by Worman Forest Management for its customers, but, in reality, the invoices were for amounts that were inflated and entirely fictitious. As a result of Worman’s fraud scheme, Worman fraudulently obtained at least $2.5 million from J.S. Richards Forestry Management.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also sentenced Worman to three years of supervised release and ordered that Worman pay restitution in an amount to be determined at a later date.
“This case sends a clear message that, along with our law enforcement partners, we will not tolerate fraud in Idaho’s business community,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “I am grateful for the FBI’s painstaking investigation of the defendant’s fraud and the tenacious work of our office’s prosecutors to marshal the evidence for the jury.”
“Douglas Worman is being held accountable for exploiting the trust of his victims,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Albert Kelly of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI is committed to protecting Idahoans by investigating and arresting those who seek to defraud others. We also encourage the public to report potential fraud to the FBI.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Brittney Campbell and Sean Mazorol prosecuted this case.
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Idaho Falls Man and Woman Sentenced to Federal Prison for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Ana Costilla, 38, and Jorge Hernandez Venegas, 24, both of Idaho Falls, were sentenced to federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. Chief United States District Judge David C. Nye sentenced Costilla to twelve and a half years and Venegas to nine years in federal prison for their roles in the conspiracy.
According to court records, law enforcement learned that Costilla was arranging to have a co-conspirator drive ten pounds of methamphetamine from California to Costilla’s residence in Idaho. Law enforcement stopped Venegas as he left Costilla’s residence in Idaho Falls. Officers with the Idaho Falls Police Department searched the vehicle Venegas was driving and found one pound of methamphetamine. Officers later discovered an additional nine pounds of methamphetamine during a search of Costilla’s home.
A federal grand jury indicted Costilla, Venegas, and Jesus Beltran-Zazusta, 26, a Mexican national living in Victor, Idaho, on January 23, 2024. On December 2, 2024, Judge Nye sentenced Venegas to 108 months in federal prison followed by five years of supervised release. On January 6, 2025, Judge Nye sentenced Costilla to 150 months in federal prison to be followed by five years of supervised release. Beltran-Zazusta pleaded guilty and is scheduled for sentencing on March 3, 2025.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Idaho Falls Police Department and the Teton County Sheriff’s Office, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe H. McLane prosecuted the case.
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Boise Woman Pleads Guilty to Selling a Man Fentanyl Pills That Caused His DeathRead the Press Release
BOISE – Jerilyn Martel Hupp, 33, of Boise, pleaded guilty to distribution of fentanyl in a case involving a fatality, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. Hupp sold ten fentanyl pills to a man she met online, who subsequently died after ingesting half of a pill containing illicit fentanyl.
According to court records, on August 18, 2023, the victim met Hupp at a hotel and purchased ten fentanyl pills from her. He then went back to his home, ingested half of a fentanyl pill, and died almost immediately. Coroner and pathologist reports showed a blood concentration level of 9.4 ng/ml of fentanyl and concluded the cause of death was fentanyl overdose. In fatalities from fentanyl, blood concentrations are variable and have been reported as low as 3 ng/ml.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill will sentence Hupp on April 2, 2025. The charge in this case is punishable by up to 20 years in federal prison, a maximum fine of $1,000,000, and a minimum of 3 years and up to lifetime of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the investigations by the Nampa Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Boise Police Department, and the Meridian Police Department, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S Attorney David Morse is prosecuting this case.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, Along with Tribal and Local Law Enforcement Officials, Release Final “Don’t Click December” PSARead the Press Release
BOISE – During the holiday season, online criminals increasingly target Idahoans through online scams and fraud schemes. Today, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, along with the FBI, the Fort Hall Police Department, the Bannock County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, the Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, the Idaho Falls Police Department, and the Pocatello Police Department, released a fourth and final PSA as part of their joint “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign. The AARP is also participating in the announcement and the awareness campaign.
The campaign advises members of the public to exercise skepticism and caution when receiving unsolicited online, email, pop-up, or text communications from unknown or unverified sources. If there is any doubt about a link, message, or attachment, law enforcement cautions: “Don’t Click It.”
In the fourth PSA, available here, Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei, Bonneville County Sheriff Samuel Hulse, and U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit warn the public about the “Tech Support” scam and explain some of the ways in which individuals can protect themselves.
In this scam, criminals impersonate technology, banking, or government officials to convince victims to share personal information. You could get a pop-up on your computer indicating your accounts have been hacked and to call a number. But that number goes to the scammer who tries to manipulate you to gain access to your computer or accounts and takes your money to fix a non-existent problem. If you get such a request, Don’t Click It. Government entities and legitimate businesses will never call you or send unsolicited pop-up messages to ask for access to your computer.
This four-part series of PSAs were released in the weeks leading up to Christmas is an effort to alert the public to other common online fraud schemes that Idaho law enforcement has seen affect Idahoans.
Unfortunately, these are not the only schemes affecting the public, and new schemes arise all the time. Law enforcement hopes that the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign will raise public awareness and encourage individuals to talk to their friends and relatives about not clicking suspicious links, texts, messages, pop-ups, or attachments.
“Through the Don’t Click December campaign, we recognize that any Idahoan with a smartphone, tablet, or computer is likely to be targeted by online criminals at some point,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “But we are not helpless. By being aware of common schemes and by talking to loved ones about the red flags of online fraud, every Idahoan can make a difference in this fight.”
“As technology continues to evolve and scammers become more aggressive and creative in their tactics, the public should be more vigilant than ever,” said Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI. “The FBI is committed to prevention and awareness efforts during the holiday season and throughout the year. Anyone who believes they are a victim of a scam should call their bank, report the crime to law enforcement, and file a complaint with the FBI's Internet Crime Complaint Center at www.IC3.gov.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners recognize that we all must work to eliminate the stigma individuals may experience if they are victimized. There is no shame to falling victim to an online scheme, which are often designed by professional criminals, sophisticated, and tested repeatedly across the country.
For this reason, the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign also publicizes ways to report scams and incidents of fraud to the FBI and local law enforcement.
To learn more about these and other scams targeting Americans visit FBI.gov, and if you believe you have been victimized, take-action by reporting it to FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov or by contacting your local law enforcement agency.
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Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Dealer from Blackfoot Sentenced to over 6 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Jeremy Orvil Johnson, 37, of Blackfoot, was sentenced to 75 months and 23 days in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl and methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, on January 11, 2024, officers stopped Johnson for speeding and failing to display a license plate. Prior to the vehicle coming to a stop, officers observed Johnson throw an item from the vehicle onto the side of the highway. Officers located a sock in the snow on the side of the road. The sock contained 347 grams of fentanyl and 39.6 grams of methamphetamine.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Johnson to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Johnson pleaded guilty to the charge in September 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office for their investigation, which led to the charges in this case. 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 use 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 175 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 152 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 10,844 months (approximately 903.66 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 75.30 months (6.28 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 62.11 months (5.17 years) in federal prison.
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An East Idaho Woman and Man Sentenced to Federal Prison in Separate Cases for Committing Sex Crimes Involving Minor ChildrenRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the outcomes in two separate eastern Idaho cases in which the defendants were sentenced to 25 years and 17.5 years in federal prison, respectively, for sex crimes against minor children.
“It is a sad reality that these types of defendants exist in our communities,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Fortunately for Idaho, our office’s team of prosecutors and victim advocates does a fantastic job working with dedicated federal, tribal, state, and local law enforcement officers to hold these criminals accountable. We will continue to do as much as possible to protect Idaho’s kids and support survivors of abuse.”
Rexanna Marie Johnston, 33, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison for producing child pornography. She was also ordered to pay $15,000 in restitution to the victim directly harmed and another $15,000 to five different victims in the images of child sexual abuse material that Johnston possessed.
According to court records, on July 17, 2023, detectives with the Idaho Falls Police Department and the Idaho Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force began an investigation after receiving a report that child sexual abuse material had been uploaded to an online file storage account. Detectives determined that the account belonged to Johnston. Detectives obtained and executed a search warrant on Johnston’s residence and electronic devices. Detectives discovered that Johnston had produced images of child sexual abuse material of an infant that was in her custody. Detectives further recovered online chat communications between Johnston and two other individuals, Nicholas Glen Baker, 37 of Twin Falls, and Dale John Hensel, 54 of Rigby. Baker requested the production of specific child sexual abuse material, which Johnston produced and sent to Baker. Hensel also received images of child sexual abuse material from Johnston.
On September 10, 2024, Baker was sentenced to 288 months in federal prison for aiding and abetting the sexual exploitation of a child. On October 1, 2024, Hensel pleaded guilty to receipt of child pornography, and is awaiting sentencing, which is scheduled for February 12, 2025.
“HSI agents have no tolerance for the exploitation of children and will work tirelessly to bring those responsible to justice,” said Matthew Murphy, acting Special Agent in Charge, HSI Seattle. “Child sex abuse is one of the most heinous crimes HSI investigates, given the profound and lasting psychological and physical damage it inflicts on victims, and we hope this sentence bring some closure for the victims. We appreciate our law enforcement partners including the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, ICAC Task Force and the Idaho Falls Police Department along with the U.S. Attorney’s Office for prosecuting the case.”
In a separate case, Jonathan Douglas Mohr, 46, of Ammon, was sentenced to 17.5 years in federal prison for distributing child pornography. Mohr was also ordered to pay $141,500 in restitution to the victims in the images of child sexual abuse material that he distributed and possessed.
According to court records, in September 2023, the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office executed a search warrant at Mohr’s residence in Ammon, after a concerned citizen reported they had observed child sexual abuse material on one of Mohr’s electronic devices. During the search warrant, law enforcement recovered a tablet, which contained more than 26,000 images of child sexual abuse material. Communications recovered from the tablet revealed that Mohr was distributing child sexual abuse material to other individuals using the Telegram messaging application.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Johnston to serve a lifetime of supervised release and Mohr to serve ten years of supervised release following their prison sentences. Johnston and Mohr will be required to register as sex offenders as a result of their convictions.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office and the Idaho Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force for their work in both cases and additionally thanked Homeland Security Investigations in Idaho Falls and the Idaho Falls Police Department for their investigation in the Johnston case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Paskett prosecuted the Johnston case and Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin Blackadar prosecuted the Mohr case.
These cases were 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.
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Rupert Man Sentenced to 13.5 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Jose Luis Arteaga, 39, of Rupert, was sentenced to 13 and a half years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, on August 22, 2023, detectives with the Mini-Cassia Drug Task Force served a search warrant at Arteaga’s home in Rupert and located 368 grams of methamphetamine and a firearm in Arteaga’s bedroom. Detectives also located smaller amounts of cocaine, marijuana, and fentanyl in Arteaga’s bedroom. Arteaga was previously convicted of federal drug trafficking and firearms offenses in the District of Idaho. In 2011, Arteaga was sentenced to five years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of an unregistered firearm, and in 2016, he was sentenced to 32 months forpossession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
A federal grand jury sitting in Pocatello indicted Arteaga on March 26, 2024. He pleaded guilty on September 19, 2024. On December 17, 2024, as part of his sentence, U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Arteaga to serve five years of supervised release following his prison term.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Mini-Cassia Drug Task Force, which is made up of detectives from the Minidoka and Cassia County Sheriff’s Offices. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe H. McLane prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, Along with Tribal and Local Law Enforcement Officials, Release Third “Don’t Click December” PSARead the Press Release
BOISE – During the holiday season, online criminals increasingly target Idahoans through online scams and fraud schemes. Today, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, along with the FBI, the Fort Hall Police Department, the Bannock County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, the Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, the Idaho Falls Police Department, and the Pocatello Police Department, released a third PSA as part of their joint “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign. The AARP is also participating in the announcement and the awareness campaign.
The campaign advises members of the public to exercise skepticism and caution when receiving unsolicited online, email, pop-up, or text communications from unknown or unverified sources. If there is any doubt about a link, message, or attachment, law enforcement cautions: “Don’t Click It.”
In the third PSA, available here, Bonneville County Prosecutor Randy Neal, Bannock County Sheriff Tony Manu, and U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit warn the public about the “Pig Butchering” scam and explain some of the ways in which individuals can protect themselves.
In this cryptocurrency investment fraud scam, known as “pig butchering,” victims usually receive communications asking them to deposit money into financial investments using cryptocurrency. After an initial investment, victims receive further communications with a fake account report showing financial gains in order to get them to invest more, but the investments are fake, and all the money is under the control of criminals who ultimately steal the victims’ investments.
If you are contacted about an investment opportunity by someone you don’t know through social media, text, or dating sites, Don’t Click It! If the message appears to be from an investment company you actually invest with, check the email address to verify it is from the company you’re familiar with.
As part of the ongoing campaign, leading up to Christmas, one final PSA is planned to be released in an effort to alert the public to common online fraud schemes that Idaho law enforcement has seen affect Idahoans.
Unfortunately, these are not the only schemes affecting the public, and new schemes arise all the time. Law enforcement hopes that the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign will raise public awareness and encourage individuals to talk to their friends and relatives about not clicking suspicious links, texts, messages, pop-ups, or attachments.
“We have witnessed many Idahoans lose their hard-earned money or their entire retirement savings to online scams. And, sadly, this type of crime tends to spike during the holiday season,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “But, together, we can reduce the risks by talking with each other about how to avoid such scams, and I’m grateful to our law enforcement partners and the AARP for joining us in the Don’t Click December campaign. We also encourage Idahoans to report any scams as soon as possible so that law enforcement can investigate and we can bring these vicious online criminals to justice.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners recognize that we all must work to eliminate the stigma individuals may experience if they are victimized. There is no shame to falling victim to an online scheme, which are often designed by professional criminals, sophisticated, and tested repeatedly across the country.
For this reason, the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign also publicizes ways to report scams and incidents of fraud to the FBI and local law enforcement.
To learn more about these and other scams targeting Americans visit FBI.gov, and if you believe you have been victimized, take-action by reporting it to FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov or by contacting your local law enforcement agency.
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Mexican National Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison on Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
BOISE – Efren Alexander Aviles-Pacheco, 29, of Culiacan, Sinaloa, Mexico, illegally living in Ontario, Oregon, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. Senior U.S. District Court Judge B. Lynn Winmill also sentenced Aviles-Pacheco to serve 10 years of supervised release, but advised Aviles-Pacheco that he will most certainly be deported to Mexico after serving his sentence.
According to court records, Aviles-Pacheco, was arrested on November 22, 2022, in a motel room in Nampa. He was found in possession of 122 grams of methamphetamine, 365 grams of fentanyl, 29 grams of cocaine, $3,415 in cash, and a 9mm handgun. He pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine on August 5, 2024. In 2019, Aviles-Pacheco was previously convicted of the same charge in the District of Idaho. On February 12, 2019, Aviles-Pacheco was sentenced to 46 months in prison and was deported to Mexico after serving his sentence. Shortly after being deported, he returned to the United States and resumed his drug trafficking activities. At sentencing, Judge Winmill found that he was likely responsible for the death of at least two individuals who overdosed on drugs provided by him. Judge Winmill stated that “if ever there was a case that screamed out for a long prison sentence, this is the case.” Aviles-Pacheco is prohibited from possessing firearms due to his status of being an illegal alien, yet in both of his federal cases, he possessed handguns.
Aviles-Pacheco is the latest member of an Ontario, Oregon family that has been convicted of drug trafficking crimes.
- Aviles-Pacheco’s father, Efren Ramon Aviles-Lopez, a/k/a Marcelo Sanchez-Espinoza, was sentenced in the District of Idaho in 2015 to serve 20 years for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine;
- His mother, Alma Loreno Pacheco-Ortiz, was sentenced in 2024 in the District of Oregon to time served and five years of supervised release after she was arrested transporting 40 pounds of methamphetamine, a kilo of heroin, and a firearm;
- His grandfather, Efren Avilez-Lopez, was sentenced in 2024 to 9 years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 20 pounds of methamphetamine in the District of Idaho;
- His grandmother, Maria Medina-Zeveda, was sentenced in 2024 to 37 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 20 pounds of methamphetamine in the District of Idaho;
- His uncle, Victor Pacheco-Ortiz, was sentenced in 2024 to five years in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute 21 pounds of methamphetamine in the District of Idaho; and
- His sister, Esmeralda Aviles-Pacheco, was indicted, on December 10, 2024, on two counts of distributing methamphetamine and one count of distributing fentanyl in the District of Idaho. On December 11, 2024, she appeared in court on the indictment and entered a not guilty plea. A trial was scheduled for February 10, 2025.
“Through his repeated involvement in this longstanding drug trafficking operation in Oregon, this defendant has earned every day of his 15-year sentence,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “I commend our prosecutors and thank our law enforcement partners—in both Idaho and Oregon—for dismantling criminal networks like this one and eliminating drug distribution pathways into Idaho.”
“We at the Drug Enforcement Administration and our partners work tirelessly to protect our community from people who sell drugs that harm and kill our citizens,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “Repeat offenders like Mr. Aviles-Pacheco richly deserve long prison terms, since it is clear that there is no other way to keep our communities safe from them. Make no mistake: If you deal drugs in Idaho, our team will hold you accountable.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Washington County Sheriff’s Office, the Nampa Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration and the High Desert Drug Task Force, with assistance from the Payette County Task Force, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.
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).
An indictment is merely an allegation and defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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California Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison for Counterfeit Currency FraudRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Clinton Curry, 40, of San Francisco, California, was sentenced to 60 months in federal prison for dealing in counterfeit obligations, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today. U.S. Circuit Judge Richard C. Tallman ordered Curry to pay restitution to the businesses he defrauded. Upon completion of his prison sentence, Curry will also be required to serve an additional three years of supervised release.
According to court records, on September 9, 2023, Curry entered a store in Post Falls, Idaho, and purchased $324 of goods using U.S. currency. After Curry left the store, employees discovered that the majority of the currency used during the purchase consisted of counterfeit bills. Law enforcement was notified and began investigating the incident immediately. Working with the Spokane Office of the U.S. Secret Service, officers quickly learned that Curry had engaged in similar transactions across several western and southern states, including Idaho, Oregon, Washington, Montana, Utah, Arizona, Wyoming, Oklahoma, and Texas. In total, officers discovered 46 separate incidents where Curry had either passed counterfeit currency or was in possession of counterfeit currency. Altogether, Curry used or attempted to use over$40,000 in counterfeit currency.
“This case demonstrates the effectiveness of multi-agency coordination to remove those who would attempt to threaten our financial system by using counterfeit currency,” said U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit.
“The U.S. Secret Service appreciates the collaborative efforts of our partners to investigate the defrauding of a critical element of our financial system," said Special Agent in Charge Glen Peterson of the U.S. Secret Service Seattle Field Office.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the Spokane Office of the U.S. Secret Service and the Post Falls Police Department for their collaborative investigation on this case, including partnering with many state and local agencies across the United States. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryce Ellsworth prosecuted the case.
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Bonners Ferry Woman Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Involvement in a Fentanyl Overdose DeathRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – Twyla Dawn Basil, 46, of Bonners Ferry, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl that resulted in serious bodily injury and death. Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Basil pay restitution to the family of the victim. Upon completion of her prison sentence, Basil will also be required to serve an additional three years of supervised release.
According to court records, on October 28, 2022, an inmate at the Boundary County Jail was found unconscious in her cell. Despite attempts to revive her by medical personnel, the victim ultimately died. A toxicology report and autopsy showed that the victim had a lethal dose of fentanyl in her system at the time of her death. The coroner ultimately determined that she died of a fentanyl overdose.
Local, state, and federal officers began an immediate investigation into the victim’s death. Jail staff learned that shortly before the victim was found dead, Basil, who was in custody with her, had provided the victim with fentanyl she had smuggled into the facility. Basil had been arrested the day before for driving while under the influence of fentanyl.
Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 50-100 times stronger than morphine. Pharmaceutical fentanyl was developed for severe pain management and prescribed in the form of transdermal patches or lozenges. While prescription fentanyl can be diverted for misuse, most cases of fentanyl-related overdoses in the U.S. are linked to illegally made fentanyl that is sold through illicit drug markets for its heroin-like effect.
Idaho has seen a massive influx of these pills in the last several years. Often, the pills are mass-produced by criminal drug networks and falsely marketed as legitimate prescription pills. The pills are made to look like prescription opioids such as oxycodone (Oxycontin, Percocet), hydrocodone (Vicodin), and alprazolam (Xanax); or stimulants like amphetamines (Adderall). Criminal drug trafficking networks also increasingly distribute illicit fentanyl in powder form. In addition to cases in which fentanyl powder is consumed on its own, authorities have found fentanyl powder mixed with other street drugs.
“No matter the location or the circumstances, any fentanyl-caused death is an intolerable tragedy,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “We have re-doubled our efforts to train law enforcement to help us investigate and prosecute fentanyl deaths. While we are seeing some signs of progress, we will continue the battle against fentanyl for as long as it takes.”
“The Idaho State Police remains steadfast in our commitment to protect our communities from the devastating impact of fentanyl and other illicit drugs,” said Captain Paul Berger with ISP District 1. “This case underscores the tragic consequences of fentanyl trafficking and highlights the critical need for ongoing collaboration between agencies. Together, we will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute those who bring this deadly substance into our state, holding them accountable for the harm they cause. We extend our deepest condolences to the victim’s family and reaffirm our dedication to preventing further tragedies caused by this dangerous drug.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the Idaho State Police and the and the North Idaho Narcotics Enforcement (NINE) Taskforce for their thorough investigation on this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Bryce Ellsworth prosecuted the case.
The NINE Task Force is a multi-jurisdictional group of law enforcement officers working together to target drug trafficking in North Idaho. The task force is comprised of agents and officers from the Idaho State Police, Coeur d’Alene Police Department, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), the Bureau of Indian Affairs, U.S. Border Patrol, the United States Postal Inspection Service, and the National Guard Counter Drug Program.
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Two Men Sentenced for Trafficking Fentanyl in PocatelloRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Andrew George Haney, 41, of Torrance, California, and Anthony Michael Stratton, 35, of Pocatello, were sentenced to federal prison for conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, in May 2023, Stratton provided Haney with the money to transport 2,000 fentanyl pills from California to Idaho. Haney obtained the multicolored pills and concealed them in candy boxes. The Pocatello Police Department, a member of the BADGES Task Force, initiated a traffic stop on a car Stratton and Haney were traveling in and located the pills, which were later determined to contain fentanyl.
Haney was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye on April 23, 2024, to 70 months in federal prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. Stratton was sentenced by Judge Nye to 44 months in federal prison on December 5, 2024. Stratton’s sentence will be served concurrent to a 5-year fixed sentence (plus 10 years indeterminate) from a Bannock County fentanyl distribution case. Once released from his state sentence, Stratton will serve a 3-year term of federal supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the investigation by the Pocatello Police Department and the Drug Enforcement Administration, with further assistance from the Idaho State Police and the Bannock County Sheriff’s Office, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Blythe H. McLane, a former Special Assistant United States Attorney, prosecuted the case as part of the Eastern Idaho Partnership.
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.
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 use 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 175 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 152 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 10,769 months (approximately 897.42 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 74.79 months (6.23 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 61.59 months (5.13 years) in federal prison.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, Along with Tribal and Local Law Enforcement Officials, Release Second “Don’t Click December” PSARead the Press Release
BOISE – During the holiday season, online criminals increasingly target Idahoans through online scams and fraud schemes. Today, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, along with the FBI, the Fort Hall Police Department, the Bannock County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, the Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, the Idaho Falls Police Department, and the Pocatello Police Department, released a second PSA as part of their joint “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign. The AARP is also participating in the announcement and the awareness campaign.
The campaign advises members of the public to exercise skepticism and caution when receiving unsolicited online, email, pop-up, or text communications from unknown or unverified sources. If there is any doubt about a link, message, or attachment, law enforcement cautions: “Don’t Click It.”
In the second PSA, available here, Bannock County Prosecutor Stephen Herzog, Idaho Falls Police Chief Bryce Johnson, and U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit warn the public about the “QR Code” scam and explain some of the ways in which individuals can protect themselves.
This scam targets individuals through corrupt or fictitious QR codes. Often the scammer will email or text a scam QR code in an attempt to trick you. They may even cover up legitimate QR code with their own corrupted code with the goal getting you to visit a bogus website that can steal your information if you log in. Always verify with the restaurant or business if you suspect a QR code is suspicious.
As part of the ongoing campaign, two additional PSAs are planned to be released in the weeks leading up to Christmas in an effort to alert the public to common online fraud schemes that Idaho law enforcement has seen affect Idahoans.
Unfortunately, these are not the only schemes affecting the public, and new schemes arise all the time. Law enforcement hopes that the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign will raise public awareness and encourage individuals to talk to their friends and relatives about not clicking suspicious links, texts, messages, pop-ups, or attachments.
“We have witnessed many Idahoans lose their hard-earned money or their entire retirement savings to online scams. And, sadly, this type of crime tends to spike during the holiday season,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “But, together, we can reduce the risks by talking with each other about how to avoid such scams, and I’m grateful to our law enforcement partners and the AARP for joining us in the Don’t Click December campaign. We also encourage Idahoans to report any scams as soon as possible so that law enforcement can investigate and we can bring these vicious online criminals to justice.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners recognize that we all must work to eliminate the stigma individuals may experience if they are victimized. There is no shame to falling victim to an online scheme, which are often designed by professional criminals, sophisticated, and tested repeatedly across the country.
For this reason, the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign also publicizes ways to report scams and incidents of fraud to the FBI and local law enforcement.
To learn more about these and other scams targeting Americans visit FBI.gov, and if you believe you have been victimized, take-action by reporting it to FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov or by contacting your local law enforcement agency.
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Convicted Felon and Methamphetamine Dealer from Idaho Falls Sentenced to over 10 Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – Kenneth Dwayne Daly, 46, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced to 130 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, in January and February 2024, Daly sold methamphetamine to another person on four occasions in East Idaho. During the first sale he sold the individual 27.79 grams of methamphetamine, during the second sale he sold 112.26 grams of methamphetamine, the third sale consisted of 226.13 grams of methamphetamine, and in the fourth sale the individual purchased 13.96 grams of methamphetamine. In April 2024, Daly agreed to sell the individual a half pound of methamphetamine. The Idaho State Police subsequently arrested him. During his arrest he was found in possession of 237.1 grams of methamphetamine. Law enforcement executed a search warrant at his residence that same day and seized an additional 313.7 grams of methamphetamine.
Daly was held accountable for a total of 930.44 grams of methamphetamine that he sold to the person.
Daly’s criminal history includes four prior state felony convictions for possession of methamphetamine and criminal distribution of dangerous drugs. He also has nine misdemeanor convictions that relate to violence.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Daly to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Daly pleaded guilty to the charge in September 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the Idaho State Police for their investigation which led to the charges in this case. 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 175 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 152 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 10,769 months (approximately 897.42 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 74.79 months (6.23 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 61.59 months (5.13 years) in federal prison.
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Three Idaho Falls Drug Traffickers Sentenced to Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Today, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the results of three separate drug distribution cases in Eastern Idaho.
“The justice achieved in these cases reflects how the strong partnerships between my office and state and local law enforcement remove dangerous criminals from our streets,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “We will continue to focus on prosecuting drug traffickers in all parts of Idaho, and I am grateful for the talented officers, investigators, and prosecutors making a difference in this fight.”
- Convicted Felon and Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to 4.5 Years in Federal Prison
In one case, Jesus Rosas, 45, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced on November 25, 2024, to 55 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court records, on January 8, 2024, Rosas was pulled over for a traffic violation by Idaho Falls Police. Rosas’s passenger had several warrants for his arrest. The passenger fled the vehicle on foot and later shot at an officer with a handgun. The officer returned fire, striking the passenger, who ultimately died from the resulting injuries.
During the traffic stop, officers removed Rosas from the vehicle and located a loaded handgun next to the driver’s seat. While removing Rosas from the vehicle, officers observed Rosas reaching in the direction of the firearm. Officers searched Rosas before placing him in a patrol vehicle. During the search, officers discovered a black bag in Rosas’s jacket pocket which contained a glass pipe, small clear bags, and two bags containing 35.9 grams of methamphetamine.
Rosas’s criminal history includes five prior state felony convictions: delivery of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), possession of controlled substances, grand theft, and burglary. Records with the Idaho Department of Correction show that he has suspected gang ties.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Rosas to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Rosas pleaded guilty to the charge in September 2024.
- Idaho Falls Man Sentenced to 3 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine
In a separate case, Brandon Luce, 43, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced on November 21, 2024 to 37 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court records, in early 2022, Luce, on two occasions, sold to another person a combined 83.24 grams of methamphetamine. Luce told the buyer that there was only one pound left in town and they were going to have to go get more.
Luce’s criminal history includes state felony convictions for possession of controlled substances and misdemeanor convictions for driving offenses, possessing burglary tools, and battery.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill ordered Luce to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Luce pleaded guilty to the offense in August 2024.
- Idaho Falls Man Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Drugs
In a third case, Darren Payne, 51, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced on November 25, 2024 to 24 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
According to court records, on January 18, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Payne’s home which included a search of his vehicle. During the execution of the search warrant, Payne was located alone in the master bedroom. He attempted to flee from the bedroom to the bathroom and attempted to swallow a bag containing methamphetamine, but ultimately spit it out.
During the search, officers found a plastic bag containing hundreds of light blue M30 pills tucked inside the bottom of a shoe. These were counterfeit oxycodone pills containing fentanyl. Additionally, while searching the pockets of clothing items hanging in the closet, officers located a bag containing a box of suboxone, multiple small bags, and glass pipes. A search of the bedroom revealed the following items: a green bottle containing small purple pills imprinted K57, Oxycodone Hydrochloride; heroin; and cocaine. There were also three individually packaged light blue M30 pills which appeared to be for sale. The items found appeared to be for both personal use and for sale. Payne possessed 76.8 grams fentanyl for distribution.
Payne’s criminal history includes two state felony convictions for possession of a controlled substance. Payne has two pending felony charges in Bonneville County for drug trafficking in methamphetamine and in Fremont County for passing checks with insufficient funds.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Payne to serve three years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Payne pleaded guilty to the charge in July 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit applauded the investigations by the Idaho Falls Police Department and the Idaho State Police for their work in all three cases and thanked the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office and the Bonneville County Prosecutor’s Office for their investigations, which led to charges in the Rosas and Payne cases. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Zoie Laggis prosecuted these cases.
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 use 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 175 defendants have been indicted by the EIP SAUSA. Of these defendants, 152 have been indicted on drug trafficking charges. The defendants indicted under the program have been sentenced to 10,639 months (approximately 886.5 years) in federal prison, representing an average prison sentence of 73.87 months (6.12 years). Defendants indicted for drug trafficking offenses serve, on average, approximately 60.33 months (5.02 years) in federal prison.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, Along with Tribal and Local Law Enforcement Officials, Announce Second “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection CampaignRead the Press Release
BOISE – During the holiday season, online criminals increasingly target Idahoans through online scams and fraud schemes. Today, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit, along with the FBI, the Fort Hall Police Department, the Bannock County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, the Bonneville County Prosecuting Attorney’s and Sheriff’s Offices, the Idaho Falls Police Department, and the Pocatello Police Department, announced their joint “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign. The AARP is also participating in the announcement and the awareness campaign.
The campaign advises members of the public to exercise skepticism and caution when receiving unsolicited online, email, pop-up, or text communications from unknown or unverified sources. If there is any doubt about a link, message, or attachment, law enforcement cautions: “Don’t Click It.”
As part of the campaign, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and their partners will release a public service announcement each week in December leading up to Christmas. In the first PSA, available here, FBI Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha, Fort Hall Police Chief Pat Teton, and U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit introduce “Don’t Click December” and explain some of the ways in which individuals can be targeted.
Three additional PSAs will alert the public to common online fraud schemes that Idaho law enforcement has seen affect Idahoans. These schemes are:
- “QR”scam: This scam targets individuals through corrupt or fictitious QR codes. Often the scammer will email or text a scam QR code in an attempt to trick you. They may even cover up legitimate QR code with their own corrupted code with the goal getting you to visit a bogus website that can steal your information if you log in. Always verify with the restaurant or business if you suspect a QR code is suspicious.
- “Pig Butchering” scam: In this cryptocurrency investment fraud scam, known as “pig butchering,” victims usually receive communications asking them to deposit money into financial investments using cryptocurrency. After an initial investment, victims receive further communications with a fake account report showing financial gains in order to get them to invest more, but the investments are fake, and all the money is under the control of criminals who ultimately steal the victims’ investments. If you are contacted about an investment opportunity by someone you don’t know through social media, text, or dating sites, Don’t Click It! If the message appears to be from an investment company you actually invest with, check the email address to verify it is from the company you’ve invested with.
- “Tech support” scam: In this scam, criminals impersonate technology, banking, or government officials to convince victims to share personal information. You could get a pop-up on your computer indicating your accounts have been hacked and to call a number. But that number goes to the scammer who tries to manipulate you to gain access to your computer or accounts and takes your money to fix a non-existent problem. If you get such a request, Don’t Click It. Government entities and legitimate businesses will never call you or send unsolicited pop-up messages to ask for access to your computer.
Unfortunately, these are not the only schemes affecting the public, and new schemes arise all the time. Law enforcement hopes that the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign will raise public awareness and encourage individuals to talk to their friends and relatives about not clicking suspicious links, texts, messages, pop-ups, or attachments.
“We have witnessed many Idahoans lose their hard-earned money or their entire retirement savings to online scams. And, sadly, this type of crime tends to spike during the holiday season,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “But, together, we can reduce the risks by talking with each other about how to avoid such scams, and I’m grateful to our law enforcement partners and the AARP for joining us in the Don’t Click December campaign. We also encourage Idahoans to report any scams as soon as possible so that law enforcement can investigate and we can bring these vicious online criminals to justice.”
“According to the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center, Idahoans lost more than $33 million to various scams last year,” said Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI. “As we shop, bank, and stay connected online, it’s important to be alert and aware of internet‑enabled crime. The FBI is proud to partner with our law enforcement partners to share these important safety messages to keep you and your money safe, especially during the busy holiday season.”
“We are pleased to join with our partners to raise awareness about online fraud targeting our citizens. If it sounds too good to be true, then it probably is. If you’re not familiar with it, don’t click on it,” said Pocatello Police Chief Roger Schei.
“Increases in technology, especially the use of AI, and the complexity of criminal organizations is making it more challenging for Idahoans to avoid the criminals who want to defraud them,” said AARP Idaho State Director Lupe Wissel. “This initiative is a great way for Idahoans to share information with their friends, family and neighbors to help keep everyone safe from scammers.”
The U.S. Attorney’s Office and its law enforcement partners recognize that we all must work to eliminate the stigma individuals may experience if they are victimized. There is no shame to falling victim to an online scheme, which are often designed by professional criminals, sophisticated, and tested repeatedly across the country.
For this reason, the “Don’t Click December” Consumer Protection Campaign also publicizes ways to report scams and incidents of fraud to the FBI and local law enforcement.
To learn more about these and other scams targeting Americans visit FBI.gov, and if you believe you have been victimized, take-action by reporting it to FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center at IC3.gov or by contacting your local law enforcement agency.
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Idaho Falls Man Convicted of Federal Drug Trafficking ChargesRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – A federal jury convicted Jason Lundholm, 36, of Idaho Falls, of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession of methamphetamine with intent to deliver after a four-day trial, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, on September 26, 2023, officers with the Idaho Falls Police Department conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in Idaho Falls. Lundholm was seated in the back passenger seat. Officers searched the vehicle and found 227 grams of methamphetamine in a fast-food bag located at Lundholm’s feet. Evidence presented during the trial established that Lundholm conspired with his co-defendants, Jeremy Wheeler, 49, of Idaho Falls, and Breena Jolley, 44, of Pocatello, who were also in the vehicle, to distribute methamphetamine.
The jury found Lundholm guilty of both charges after two hours of deliberation on November 21, 2024. Lundholm is scheduled to be sentenced on February 13, 2025, before Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill. Lundholm faces a maximum penalty of twenty years in federal prison.
Wheeler and Jolley previously pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and are both scheduled for sentencing on December 18, 2024 before Judge Winmill.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the investigation by the Idaho Falls Police Department and the Bonneville County Sheriff’s Office, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Paskett is prosecuting the case.
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Boise Man Indicted for Selling Firearms Without a LicenseRead the Press Release
BOISE – A federal grand jury in Boise returned an indictment on November 13, 2024, charging Luke James Estep, 27, of Boise, with dealing firearms without a license, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
The two-count indictment alleges that in October 2024, Estep, who is not a licensed firearms dealer, was selling firearms. If convicted, he faces a maximum of five years in federal prison and up to a $250,000 fine. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Estep was arrested on November 14 and booked with the Ada County Jail. Estep appeared on Monday before U.S. Magistrate Judge Debora K. Grasham and entered a plea of not guilty. A jury trial is scheduled for January 6, 2025, at the federal courthouse in Boise, before Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and the Meridian Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Katherine Horwitz is prosecuting 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.
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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Meridian Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Federal Gun, Drug, and Obstruction OffensesRead the Press Release
BOISE – Bart Thomas Martin, 29, was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison for drug trafficking, possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking, and obstruction of justice, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, Martin operated a drug trafficking operation where he received large quantities of drugs in the mail and further distributed those drugs in Idaho. The U.S. Postal Inspection Service arrested Martin in April 2024 in possession of approximately 900 grams of methamphetamine. Martin was booked into jail and later made a phone call to another individual requesting that individual remove evidence from his apartment. Investigators subsequently seized a safe from Martin’s apartment, which contained large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine, as well as five firearms.
“This case is an excellent example of the successful cooperation between federal and state law enforcement here in Idaho,” U.S. Attorney Hurwit said. “Lengthy prison sentences are part and parcel of federal drug trafficking and firearm crimes. Our Project Safe Neighborhoods team does a great job making our streets safer.”
“Traffickers like Martin and their operations continue to wreak havoc on our communities,” said Inspector in Charge Anthony Galetti. “He will spend more than a decade behind bars because of the great work by Inspectors, Officers and Prosecutors across the state of Idaho. Partnerships like Project Safe Neighborhoods are what deliver these kind of results. We will continue to do the work day in and day out to serve our communities and bring these traffickers to justice”
“This case demonstrates the severe consequences that accompany drug trafficking and firearm-related crimes in Idaho. The Idaho State Police remains dedicated to working alongside federal partners to bring individuals to justice and to protect our communities from the dangers of illicit drugs. ISP is committed to continuing our efforts to curb drug trafficking and prevent the harm it inflicts on our state,” said Investigations Lieutenant Jack Catlin of the Idaho State Police.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Martin to complete four years of supervised release upon completion of his prison sentence.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the cooperative efforts of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service and the Idaho State Police for their work on this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Francis Zebari prosecuted this 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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Three Drug Traffickers Each Sentenced to Ten or More Years in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
BOISE – Today, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the results of three separate drug distribution cases in southern Idaho.
“These defendants are facing the consequences of engaging in drug trafficking in Idaho,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Anyone else thinking of trafficking drugs in Idaho should pay attention. Our strong law enforcement partnerships will continue to detect drug trafficking in Idaho and our prosecutors will continue to ensure that justice is served.”
- Washington Fentanyl and Methamphetamine Dealer Sentenced to 14.5 Years in Federal Prison
In one case, Zechariah Scott Chadwick, 37, of Poulsbo, Washington, was sentenced on November 6, 2024, to 14.5 years in federal prison for possessing fentanyl and methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it to others.
According to court records, on January 17, 2024, Chadwick was driving on US Highway 93 through Twin Falls County when he lost control of his vehicle and crashed into a snowbank. When deputies arrived to assist, they observed signs that Chadwick was under the influence of a drug. After observing drug paraphernalia, deputies searched his vehicle and located four large tightly wrapped packages containing a total of 2.73 pounds of blue fentanyl pills marked M/30. Deputies also found six brown packages containing a total of 8.81 pounds of methamphetamine. In addition to the drugs, deputies found a loaded .40 caliber handgun. The investigation revealed that Chadwick had left Las Vegas and was taking these drugs to Washington when he was arrested in Idaho.
Chadwick’s criminal history includes state crimes involving theft and violence. In 2016 he was convicted of a felony drive-by shooting in Washington for which he served 78 months in a Washington prison. Chadwick was also convicted of a felony residential burglary in 2023.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Chadwick to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the Twin Falls County Sheriff’s Office, the Twin Falls County Prosecuting Attorney’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration for their collaboration in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney Christopher Booker prosecuted this case.
- Boise Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine
In a separate case, Nathan Gamble, 47, of Boise, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court records, Gamble was part of a drug trafficking organization operating out of eastern Oregon and western Idaho. This drug trafficking organization was responsible for trafficking hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine in Idaho and Oregon. Gamble was identified as a member of the organization after he sold another person three pounds of methamphetamine on November 16, 2023.
Gamble has a criminal history that includes a state conviction for delivery of methamphetamine in Oregon and multiple state convictions for trafficking in methamphetamine in Idaho. Gamble was on state parole for one of his trafficking of methamphetamine convictions while he was distributing the methamphetamine that led to this federal conviction.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also ordered Gamble to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Gamble pleaded guilty to the offense in August 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the collaborative work of the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Boise Police Department, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Meridian Police Department, the Oregon State Police, and the High Desert Drug Task Force, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
- Mexican National Sentenced to over 10 Years in Federal Prison for Trafficking Drugs and Unlawfully Possessing Firearms
In a third case, Ivan Cortez-Monarrez, 41, of Sinaloa, Mexico, was sentenced to 123 months and 11 days in federal prison for distributing methamphetamine and unlawfully possessing firearms.
According to court records, the FBI-led Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force began investigating reports that Cortez-Monarrez was working with a Mexican cartel to distribute drugs from Arizona into the Treasure Valley. In the summer of 2023, law enforcement conducted an operation that resulted in obtaining approximately 6 pounds of methamphetamine and three firearms from Cortez-Monarrez. Cortez-Monarrez had previously been removed from the United States in January 2021 but was found illegally living in Idaho at the time he committed the offenses.
Cortez-Monarrez pleaded guilty to the charge in August 2024. During sentencing, U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford noted that Cortez-Monarrez had no connection to Idaho or the United States. She further commented on Cortez-Monarrez dealing drugs at the expense of destroying lives. Because Cortez-Monarrez is a Mexican citizen who was illegally present in the United States, he will be deported after serving his prison sentence.
“Like other drug traffickers, Cortez-Monarrez had no regard for the harm he caused the people of the Treasure Valley,” said Special Agent in Charge Shohini Sinha of the Salt Lake City FBI. “His sentencing is an example of what can be achieved when law enforcement at all levels works together. Illicit drugs have caused too much pain and devastation in our communities, and the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force is actively working to keep Idahoans safe."
“This case highlights the ongoing efforts by Mexican drug cartels to infiltrate communities across the United States and poison our citizens with illicit drugs,” said Canyon County Sheriff Kieran Donahue. “Thankfully, our strong partnerships in the Treasure Valley among our state, local, and federal partners allow us to fight this type of criminality head-on. I’m thankful for the dedicated work of the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crime Task Force and U.S. Attorney Hurwit’s office for putting this defendant in prison. I’m hopeful it sends a message to other criminals that we will stop at nothing to find you and hold you accountable for your actions.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Treasure Valley Metro Violent Crimes Task Force for its efforts in this case. The Task Force is comprised of federal, state, and local agencies, including the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Caldwell Police Department, the Canyon County Sheriff’s Office, and the Idaho Department of Correction. In addition, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms (ATF) and Explosives and U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) assisted in this case. Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Kelsey Manweiler prosecuted this case.
The Special Assistant U.S. Attorney 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.
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).
The Gamble and Cortez-Monarrez prosecutions were 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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Twin Falls Man Sentenced to 6.5 Years in Federal Prison for Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
BOISE – Shane Pruett, 42, of Twin Falls, was sentenced to 78 months in federal prison for possession of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, the investigation began when Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) received CyberTip reports from Reddit. 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. HSI determined that a Reddit account, later identified as belonging to Pruett, had posted CSAM on Reddit.
HSI obtained a federal search warrant for the contents of Pruett’s Reddit account and located images of CSAM, along with messages that Pruett had sent discussing his sexual interest in children. HSI executed a federal search warrant at Pruett’s Twin Falls residence and seized two cellphones, an iPad, and a laptop computer belonging to Pruett. A forensic examination revealed CSAM on each of the devices.
U.S. District Judge Amanda K. Brailsford also sentenced Pruett to 15 years of supervised release and ordered him to pay $15,000 in restitution to victims in the images he possessed. Pruett will be required to register as a sex offender as a result of the conviction.
“We are committed to finding anyone engaged in illegal and harmful online child exploitation crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “I am grateful for the strong partnerships between federal and local law enforcement that allow us to prosecute these types of defendants to the fullest extent of the law.”
“HSI agents fight every day to protect children from online predators, and the sentence handed down today sends a clear message that those who engage in the exploitation and abuse of children will be held accountable under the full extent of the law,” said acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Murphy, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “HSI and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting children from these horrific crimes and will continue to relentlessly pursue those who seek to harm them.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the cooperative efforts of Homeland Security Investigations and the Twin Falls Police Department, which led to the charge.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
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Boise Nurse Practitioner Sentenced to 48 Months for Conspiracy to Distribute Controlled SubstancesRead the Press Release
BOISE – Angela Kathryn Hughes, 50, of Boise, was sentenced to 48 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute controlled substances, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today.
According to court records, Hughes was a nurse practitioner in Boise, Idaho. Between January 2022 and March 2023, Hughes issued illegitimate prescriptions for oxycodone, oxycodone acetaminophen, and hydrocodone acetaminophen. In exchange for prescriptions, she received cash, a portion of the pills from the prescription, and other controlled substances such as methamphetamine. Hughes conspired with her co-defendant Sydney Neal, 39, of Boise, and others, to knowingly and intentionally distribute Schedule II controlled substances outside the usual course of professional practice and without a legitimate medical purpose. The unlawful prescriptions Hughes issued as part of the conspiracy totaled approximately 4,358 pills of oxycodone acetaminophen, 2,854 pills of oxycodone, and 2,625 pills of hydrocodone acetaminophen.
Senior U.S. District Judge B. Lynn Winmill also ordered Hughes to be placed on supervised release for three years following her release from prison.
Sydney Neal was previously sentenced to five years of probation for her role in the conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. According to court records, Neal received cash from selling controlled substances and provided the proceeds to Hughes. In exchange, Neal continued to receive and distribute controlled substances.
“Medical providers are supposed to take care of their patients and their community. The defendant in this case did the opposite, adding to the dangerous problem of prescription drug abuse,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “I am grateful for the team of prosecutors and investigators that found out what was happening and put a stop to it.”
“Providers who recklessly distribute controlled substances undermine efforts to address the ongoing opioid crisis and betray their professional responsibility to serve the health and well-being of the American public,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven J. Ryan of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work tirelessly with our law enforcement partners to hold bad actors accountable and keep Idaho communities safe.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Boise Police Department, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General, and the Drug Enforcement Administration, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Darci Crane and Erin Blackadar prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Successful Child Exploitation Prosecution Efforts in North IdahoRead the Press Release
COEUR D’ALENE – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the results of three separate child exploitation cases in Northern Idaho today.
“I am proud of my office’s efforts to partner with law enforcement throughout our state to locate and bring to justice child predators,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “These cases involving defendants in North Idaho and North Central Idaho shows the reach of our collaborative efforts, and Idaho’s children are safer because of these results.”
- Registered Sex Offender in Moscow Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Pornography
In one case, David William Peer, 47, of Moscow, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison for possession of child pornography.
According to court records, in early 2024, law enforcement received cybertips from an email provider indicating that somebody using its email service was distributing child pornography from multiple related email addresses. Law enforcement traced the email addresses to a Moscow address where Peer lived. Peer was a registered sex offender on federal supervision for prior convictions in another state related to child pornography. In February 2024, law enforcement searched Peer’s home and found a cell phone belonging to Peer. A forensic analysis of that phone revealed that it contained over 1,000 images of child pornography. Analysis of the phone also showed that Peer was using privacy-focused search engines to access child exploitation websites on the phone while on federal supervision.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Peer be placed on supervised release for the rest of his life following his prison sentence. Peer pleaded guilty to the charge on June 17, 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of the Moscow Police Department, the Latah County Sheriff’s Office, the Lewiston Police Department, the Nez Perce County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI, which led to the charges.
- Lewiston Man Who Distributed Hundreds of Videos Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Possession of Child Pornography
In another case, Eric Marshall Villa, 39, of Lewiston, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison for possession of child pornography.
According to court records, in 2023, the FBI began investigating an individual who was exchanging child pornography with others online under aliases on Instagram and Telegram. The FBI determined that Villa was behind the accounts and, following the issuance of multiple federal search warrants, searched Villa’s Lewiston home and vehicle in early 2024. Law enforcement found a phone belonging to Villa in his vehicle. A court-authorized forensic analysis of Villa’s phone revealed that he had received more than 750 videos of child pornography, distributed more than 550 videos, and distributed more than 100,000 files totaling more than 460 GB of data through links to an online file-hosting service.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Villa be placed on supervised release for 15 years following his prison sentence. Villa pleaded guilty to the charge on July 15, 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the Lewiston Police Department, the Nez Perce County Prosecutor’s Office, the Moscow Police Department, and the FBI for their collaboration in this investigation.
- Rathdrum Man Sentenced to 7.5 Years in Federal Prison Following Online Child Enticement Sting
In another case, Donovan Vinton Nagle, 62, of Rathdrum, was sentenced to a total of 90 months in federal prison for two counts of attempted use of interstate facilities to transmit information about a minor.
According to court records, between June 30 and August 24, 2023, Nagle engaged in explicit online communications with an undercover agent from the United States Department of Homeland Security, Homeland Security Investigations, who was posing as the mother of an 11-year-old girl. Nagle expressed sexual interest in the fictional child, sent explicit photographs, and arranged to meet the mother and child for a sexual encounter at a hotel in Coeur d’Alene. On the day of the arranged meeting, Nagle drove from his work to the hotel, parked his vehicle, and began walking towards the hotel. Nagle, who was carrying a bag containing candy, ice cream bars, and energy drinks, was then arrested in the parking lot.
Chief District Judge David C. Nye also ordered that Nagle be placed on supervised release for the rest of his life following his prison sentence. Nagle pleaded guilty to the charges on July 15, 2024.
“Every child deserves to grow up safe, unscarred, in communities free of the threat posed by child predators,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. “This sentence helps keep a dangerous predator off the street, and if we are to be effective at protecting our most vulnerable, it will take everlasting vigilance from HSI, our law enforcement partners, and the public to identify those that would attempt to exploit children.”
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the investigation by of Homeland Security Investigations and thanked the Idaho State Police for their assistance in apprehending Nagle.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Adam Johnson prosecuted all three cases.
These cases were 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.
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Boise Health Care Company and Former Therapist Resolve Fraudulent Psychotherapy Billing Allegations Involving Vulnerable Refugee PopulationRead the Press Release
KA Health Services, and its Owner Paid $321,576.51 to Resolve Allegations they Fraudulently Billed for Psychotherapy and Related Services that Were Not Performed or Not Performed by a Qualified Professional; Former Psychotherapist at KA Health Admits to Violations of the False Claims Act as Part of a $40,000 Consent Judgment
BOISE – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced that KA Health Services (KA Health) and its owner, Khalid Ameri, paid $321,576.51 to resolve allegations that they knowingly submitted or caused the submission of false claims to Medicaid for psychotherapy, language interpretation, and other services. The United States contended that these submissions were false because the claimed services were never provided and/or not provided by a qualified professional.
As a result of the same investigation, licensed professional counselor Karen Canfield, 61, of Boise, consented to a judgment against her in United States District Court after admitting to violations of the False Claims Act. Canfield admitted to knowingly causing KA Health to submit false or fraudulent claims to Medicaid for reimbursement for psychotherapy, language interpretation, and other services.
According to court records, Canfield admitted that she knew that KA Health’s clients were refugees that recently arrived in the United States and were not fluent in English. Rather than treat KA Health’s clients, Canfield directed language interpreters – who were not licensed or otherwise qualified to provide psychotherapy services – to meet with the clients without Canfield being present or otherwise participating in the meeting. Canfield further admitted that she filled out their medical records in a false or fraudulent manner because those records indicated she had provided services when she was not, in fact, meeting with KA Health’s clients – much less providing them with therapy. Canfield later signed the false medical records, which she knew KA Health then used as the basis for submitting claims to Medicaid for reimbursement.
“The vast majority of Idaho’s health care providers play by the rules. Our office is committed to rooting out the few wrongdoers, particularly those that prey on vulnerable patient populations,” said U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit. “Healthcare fraud enforcement is and will remain an important priority for our office. We will not tolerate individuals and businesses who compromise the integrity of the healthcare system for financial gain.”
“These resolutions demonstrate our commitment to protecting Idaho communities from schemes targeting Idaho’s Medicaid program, which provides necessary services to some of the most vulnerable populations in the state,” said Special Agent in Charge Steven J. Ryan with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG values our continued partnership with the Idaho Medicaid Fraud Control Unit and our other law enforcement partners, and will continue to investigate fraud allegations, which threaten the integrity of both federal and state health care programs and the people served by them.”
These matters were investigated jointly by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho, the Office of the Inspector General of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, and the Idaho Attorney General’s Office’s Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. Additional assistance was provided by the Idaho State Department of Health and Welfare. Assistant U.S. Attorney Elliot Wertheim handled the cases.
The claims resolved by the settlement against KA Health and Khalid Ameri are allegations only and there has been no admission or determination of liability. For additional case information for the Canfield case and publicly available court documents, see United States v. Canfield, 1:24-CV-00460-BLW (U.S. District Court for the District of Idaho.)
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U.S. Attorney’s Office Announces Successful Drug Trafficking Prosecutions Made Possible by Local Partnerships in the Treasure ValleyRead the Press Release
BOISE – Today, U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the results of two separate drug distribution cases in southern Idaho.
“These defendants mistakenly thought they could get away with selling substantial quantities of dangerous drugs in the Treasure Valley,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “They have now learned the hard way how the DEA and local law enforcement work so well together to root out drug trafficking in our communities. Anyone else thinking of trafficking drugs in Idaho should pay attention to the results.”
- Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Dealer Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison
In one case, Daniel Allen Gonzales, 51, originally from Lynwood, California, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye to 120 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl.
According to court records, on May 26, 2023, after a multi-month investigation involving a partnership between several Treasure Valley law enforcement agencies, investigators executed a search warrant at Gonzales’ home and vehicle in Boise. During the search, investigators found approximately one and three-quarter pounds of fentanyl and two pounds of methamphetamine that Gonzales intended to distribute into the community.
Judge Nye also ordered Gonzales to pay a $500 fine and to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. Gonzales pleaded guilty to the federal charge in July 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit thanked the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Nampa Police Department, and the Boise Police Department for their collaboration in this investigation. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse prosecuted this case.
- Meridian Man Convicted of Distribution of Methamphetamine Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison
In a separate case, Charles Grant McReynolds, 57, of Meridian, was sentenced to 108 months in federal prison following his conviction for distribution of methamphetamine.
According to court records, on November 29, 2023, McReynolds sold approximately two pounds of methamphetamine to another individual. After the sale, investigators followed him to a nearby hotel parking lot where they arrested him. During the arrest, investigators searched McReynolds’ vehicle and found more than two pounds of methamphetamine, a .45 caliber pistol, and over $10,000 in illicit drug trafficking proceeds. McReynolds told investigators that he intended to purchase more methamphetamine for redistribution after he sold the two pounds investigators found in his vehicle.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered McReynolds to serve five years of supervised release following his prison sentence. McReynolds pleaded guilty to the offense in April 2024.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit commended the work of DEA, the Nampa Police Department Special Investigations Unit, the Boise Police Department, the Ada County Sheriff’s Office, the Meridian Police Department, the Oregon State Police, and the High Desert Drug Task Force, which led to the charges. Assistant U.S. Attorney David Morse also prosecuted this case.
“Drug traffickers like Mr. Gonzales and Mr. McReynolds enrich themselves by preying on the vulnerable in our communities and these sentences hold them accountable for their crimes,” said David F. Reames, Special Agent in Charge, DEA Seattle Field Division. “The Drug Enforcement Administration and our partners will never stop protecting our communities from those who would seek to poison our people.”
The DEA Boise Office Task Force and High Desert Drug Task Force are both 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).
Both of these prosecutions were 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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U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit Announces November 2024 Election Complaints ProgramRead the Press Release
BOISE – United States Attorney Josh Hurwit announced today that multiple Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) from around Idaho will lead the efforts of his Office in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. These AUSAs have been appointed to serve as District Election Officers (DEO) for the District of Idaho and in that capacity are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department officials in Washington, D.C.
“The right to vote is the cornerstone of American democracy,” U.S. Attorney Hurwit stated. “We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. We will be prepared to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
U.S. Attorney Hurwit said, “Every eligible citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Idaho at (208) 334-1211 or by email to [email protected]. Complaints can also be made directly to the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division in Washington, D.C. by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at (800) 253-3931.
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The Salt Lake City FBI field office, which covers Idaho, can be reached by the public at (801) 579-1400.
U.S. Attorney Hurwit said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
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East Idaho Men Sentenced to Federal Prison in Separate Cases for Committing Sex Crimes Involving Minor ChildrenRead the Press Release
POCATELLO – U.S. Attorney Josh Hurwit announced the outcomes in two separate eastern Idaho cases in which the defendants were sentenced to 15 years and 12 years in federal prison, respectively, for sex crimes against minor children.
“These cases reflect our steadfast commitment to bring to justice criminals who use digital technology, the internet, and cameras to sexually victimize young children,” said U.S. Attorney Hurwit. “Sadly, there is much work to be done, but the strong partnerships between federal, state, and local law enforcement will continue to make an impact. We are one team motivated to do as much as possible to stop anyone who would harm Idaho’s kids.”
Shaun Patrick Conley, 53, of Shelley, was sentenced to 188 months in federal prison for receiving child pornography. According to court records, on July 28, 2023, a parole search was conducted at Conley’s residence. Conley was on parole for a prior sexual offense involving a minor. During the parole search, law enforcement discovered images on Conley’s phone that showed his attempt to surreptitiously film an 11-year-old child that was undressed. Law enforcement identified the minor as a child belonging to a family that Conley had befriended. Conley had introduced himself to the family of the minor using the name Shaun Millard and had denied having previously been convicted of a sex offense. Law enforcement also found four pairs of the 11-year-old child’s underwear at Conley’s house. Finally, law enforcement found a collection of child pornography in Conley’s possession.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered Conley to be placed on supervised release for ten years following his prison sentence. Conley will also be required to register as a sex offender as a result of his conviction. Conley pleaded guilty to the charge on April 19, 2024.
In a separate case, Mathew Dayton White, 44, of Idaho Falls, was sentenced to 152 months in federal prison for possession of child pornography. According to court records, On February 1, 2023, law enforcement received a report that White had hidden a camera in a 13-year-old child’s bedroom. On February 2, 2023, law enforcement obtained and executed a search warrant at White’s residence. Multiple electronic devices including computers and hard drives were seized from White’s home and forensically searched. Homeland Security Investigations identified over 4,000 images of child pornography on White’s devices.
Chief U.S. District Judge David C. Nye also ordered White to be placed on supervised release for the remainder of his life following his prison sentence, and White was ordered to pay $184,050 in restitution to be distributed among 24 victims. White will also be required to register as a sex offender as a result of his conviction. White pleaded guilty to the charge on March 28, 2024.
“HSI makes it a priority to identify predators anywhere they may be found to stop the exploitation of children, in coordination with our law enforcement partners,” said Special Agent in Charge Robert Hammer, who oversees HSI operations in the Pacific Northwest. "Whether it is a repeat offender or a predator acting covertly to fulfill their own repugnant desires, we will never stop fighting for children who deserve to grow up free from harm.”
The Conley case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) in Idaho Falls, Idaho State Probation and Parole, the Bingham County Sheriff’s Office, the Blackfoot Police Department, and the Shelley Police Department. The White case was investigated by HSI in Idaho Falls, the Pocatello Police Department, and the Idaho Falls Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Justin Paskett prosecuted both cases.
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.
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