Western District of Kentucky
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
6 Indicted for Madisonville-Area Drug Distribution Ring Following a Homeland Security Task Force Investigation Led by DEA and MPDRead the Press Release
Madisonville, KY – Following a joint state and federal investigation led by the DEA and the Madisonville Police Department, a federal grand jury in Bowling Green, Kentucky, returned an indictment on August 12, 2026, charging six Madisonville-area individuals with drug distribution-related charges.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Chief Steve Bryan of the Madisonville Police Department made the announcement.
According to the 13-count indictment, Traviel Civils, 34, of Madisonville, Kentucky; Teron Cox, 41, of Earlington, Kentucky; James Gunn, 69, of Greenville, Kentucky; Adam Pettus, 41, of Earlington, Kentucky; Brooke Poe, 44, of Madisonville, Kentucky; and Robert Rice, 46, of Madisonville, Kentucky, were charged with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances involving 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine.
Civils was charged with seven additional counts of distribution of controlled substances involving cocaine and methamphetamine. Pettus was charged with 10 additional counts of distribution of controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances involving cocaine and methamphetamine. Rice was charged with two additional counts of distribution of controlled substances and possession with intent to distribute controlled substances involving methamphetamine. Cox was charged with two additional counts of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances involving cocaine and methamphetamine. Gunn was charged with one additional count of possession with intent to distribute controlled substances involving methamphetamine.
All defendants other than Cox recently made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. These defendants remained detained in federal custody pending trial. Cox remains in state custody and will make an initial appearance at a later date.
If convicted, the defendants each face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum of life. There is no parole in the federal system. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case is being investigated by the DEA and the Madisonville Police Department with assistance from the ATF, Kentucky State Police, Hopkins County Sheriff’s Office and Madisonville Vice Narcotics Unit.
Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office is prosecuting the case.
The case is also being worked in conjunction with Hopkins County Commonwealth’s Attorney Hannah Kington-Jarvis.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts 13 for Drug and Firearm Offenses Following a Homeland Security Task Force Investigation Led by the DEA and LMPDRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Following a lengthy investigation by the Louisville Homeland Security Task Force led by the DEA and LMPD, a federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on May 20, 2026, charging 13 individuals with conspiring to distribute controlled substances, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and firearms offenses. Ten of the defendants have been arrested, one is deceased, and two are at large.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul L. Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Shane Andres, 48, of Louisville, Kentucky; Michael Andres, 52, of Louisville, Kentucky; Luther Roland, 49, of Louisville, Kentucky; Clarence Caldwell, 62, of Louisville, Kentucky; John Finley, 32, of Louisville, Kentucky; Marcus Andrews, 50, of Detroit, Michigan; Stacey McRae, 36, of Louisville, Kentucky; Jorge Torres Valdez, 27, an illegal alien from Mexico unlawfully residing in New York, New York; Ronnall Clark, 44, of Louisville, Kentucky; Keshawn Hatcher, 34, of Louisville, Kentucky; Cornelius Pendleton, 44, of Louisville, Kentucky; and Fineiss Vaughn, 21, of Phoenix, Arizona, were all charged with one count of conspiring to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl and 100 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing heroin from January 24, 2023, through May 20, 2026, in Jefferson County, Kentucky.
Additionally, Shane Andres was charged with one count of distribution of fentanyl; Michael Andres was charged with six counts of distribution of fentanyl; Luther Roland was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and three counts of distribution of fentanyl; Clarence Caldwell was charged with two counts of distribution of fentanyl; John Finley was charged with three counts of distribution of fentanyl; Marcus Andrews was charged with three counts of distribution of heroin; Stacy McRae was charged with three counts of distribution of fentanyl; Keshawn Hatcher was charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; and Cornelius Pendleton was charged with one count of possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and possessing a firearm with the knowledge he had previously been convicted of a felony, specifically:
On or about November 15, 2019, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in Case Number 19-CR-2810, Cornelius Pendleton, was convicted of the offense of convicted felon in possession of a firearm;
On or about March 1, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in Case Number 18-CR-0638, Cornelius Pendleton, was convicted of the offenses of convicted felon in possession of a handgun, tampering with physical evidence and receiving stolen property (firearm);
On or about May 8, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in Case Number 15-CR-3350, Cornelius Pendleton, was convicted of the offenses of trafficking in a controlled substance first degree, convicted felon in possession of a handgun and receiving stolen property (firearm);
On or about July 20, 2005, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in Case Number 04-CR-2842, Cornelius Pendleton, was convicted of the offense of burglary third degree;
On or about July 20, 2005, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in Case Number 04-CR-0590, Cornelius Pendleton, was convicted of the offenses of trafficking in a controlled substance first degree, promoting contraband and tampering with physical evidence.
On August 12, 2026, six of the thirteen defendants made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Michael Andres, Jorge Torres Valdez, Cornelius Pendleton and Marcus Andrews will make their initial appearances at a later date. Donshaun Coleman is deceased. Stacey McRae and Fineiss Vaughn remain at large.
If convicted, Cornelius Pendleton faces a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. If convicted, Shane Andres, Michael Andres, Luther Roland, Clarence Caldwell, John Finley, Marcus Andrews, Stacey McRae, Jorge Torres Valdez, Ronnall Clark, Keshawn Hatcher, Cornelius Pendleton and Fineiss Vaughn face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “The Louisville Homeland Security Task Force is a national model for interagency cooperation and productivity. Agents from multiple federal agencies working seamlessly with the Louisville Metro Police Department are constantly working long-term investigations against significant drug trafficking organizations for the betterment of our community. It is truly an honor to announce this important indictment and commend the success of our law enforcement partners.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott stated, “The DEA, alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, remains committed to pursuing those who profit from trafficking dangerous drugs while fueling violence in our communities. By bringing the full resources of the federal government to bear against career criminals, we are sending a clear message to those who peddle poison on our streets: your days are numbered.”
LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey stated, "This investigation is another example of what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal law enforcement work together with a shared commitment to protecting our community. I want to thank every investigator who spent countless hours on this case to make our neighborhoods safer."
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the DEA and LMPD with assistance by IRS Criminal Investigation, St. Matthews Police Department, Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office, Office of the Kentucky Attorney General, Anderson County Sheriff’s Office and the Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua R. Porter and Frank E. Dahl III are prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Adela Alic.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Shepherdsville Man Sentenced to 9 Years in Federal Prison for Multi-Million Dollar Investment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Shepherdsville, Kentucky man was sentenced on August 11, 2026, to 9 years in federal prison for wire fraud and spending fraud proceeds.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Bobby Kuszynski of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office made the announcement.
Stacy Allen Taylor, 59, of Shepherdsville, conspired with others in an international wire fraud scheme to defraud more than forty victims out of over $23.6 million. Victims believed they were investing money into a private trading platform that would provide significant returns on their investments. Most victims lost their entire investment to the scheme.
Taylor was previously convicted in the Western District of Kentucky and served a three-year sentence for federal fraud and drug crimes related to his role in an illegal online pharmacy.
In this case, Taylor entered guilty pleas to the seven counts in his indictment, including charges for wire fraud, wire fraud conspiracy, and carrying out transactions over $10,000 with criminal proceeds. Taylor has been ordered to pay restitution to victims of his fraud scheme.
“Taylor is a repeat offender engaged in complex fraud, causing significant harm to dozens of victims,” said United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner. “A dedicated team of agents from FBI and IRS-CI worked together tirelessly over the course of years to bring justice to the fraud victims in this case. Taylor’s significant prison sentence will help protect others who might have fallen prey to this fraud scheme and, hopefully, sends a strong deterrent message to other fraudsters to stop or they will certainly find themselves in a cell next to Taylor.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, "Investment schemes like the one perpetrated by Mr. Taylor may not only lead to the loss of a victim's life savings, but can irreparably damage one's livelihood. Through the FBI’s strong partnerships with IRS-CI and the U.S. Attorney’s Office-Western District of Kentucky, this fraud scheme was identified and stopped before additional unsuspecting Americans were victimized.”
“When you knowingly mix deceit and fraud into the financial well-being of individuals, you create a recipe for devastation that could last a lifetime,” said Robert Kuszynski, Acting Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “Today's sentencing demonstrates how federal law enforcement will band together to help put an end to the criminal behavior of those who prey on investors for their personal financial gain. IRS-CI special agents will continue to use their financial expertise to identify and trace laundered funds in these types of investor fraud schemes.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI Louisville Field Office and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne E. Keel prosecuted the case.
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Louisville Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Charges for CARES Act FraudRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville woman pled guilty on August 11, 2026, to knowingly making false statements to a Federally Insured Financial Institution and a Federal Credit Union.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Kelly Moening of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) Great Lakes Field Division made the announcement.
Between April 14, 2020, and August 11, 2022, Rachel Finley a/k/a Rachel Adams, 57, of Louisville, Kentucky, knowingly filed two applications for Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans containing materially false and misleading statements to a Federally Insured Financial Institution and a Federal Credit Union, resulting in the theft of $117,990. Finley utilized the entity Private Label Vintage & Spirits, a Kentucky Limited Liability Company. Finley falsified the number of employees and payroll expenses of the entity in the applications. Finley further submitted applications for forgiveness for each of the loans containing materially false and misleading statements regarding the number of employees the entity had at the time of the application and at the time of forgiveness, the amount that had been spent on payroll costs, and falsely certified that she had complied with all requirements in the PPP Rules.
Finley pled guilty to two counts of making false statements to a federally insured financial institution and two counts of making false statements to a federal credit union in a four-count Superseding Information. She is scheduled to be sentenced on December 2, 2026, at 9:30 a.m. A federal district court judge will determine her sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Additionally, Finley will be required to pay not less than $134,241 in restitution.
There is no parole in the federal system.
“Through her conduct, Finley demonstrated zero regard for the hard-working taxpayers who funded this vital benefit program,” said United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner. “No matter the size of the amount stolen, the Department of Justice and this Office will remain committed to identifying and prosecuting those individuals who defraud benefits programs. The taxpayers deserve as much out of the Department.”
This case is being investigated by the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA).
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Nicole Elver and David Weiser, of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, are prosecuting the case with the assistance of Paralegal Specialist Aaron Cooper.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 15 Years for Possession with Intent to Distribute Narcotics and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced on August 7, 2026, to 15 years in prison for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, as well possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and illegal possession of a machinegun.
U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Charles Mills, 33, of Louisville, Kentucky, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, as well as possession of firearm by a prohibited person and illegal possession of a machinegun. Additionally, Mills was sentenced to an enhancement for being an Armed Career Criminal, and an enhancement for having previously been convicted of a serious drug felony offense.
On November 12, 2024, detectives with Louisville Metro Police Department attempted to arrest Mills on a warrant for trafficking methamphetamine and marijuana. Mills fled on foot and, after a short foot chase, was arrested. Detectives located a loaded Glock pistol concealed in his waistband. Additionally, Mills was found to be in possession of over 50 grams of methamphetamine, a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, and a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of cocaine.
After arresting Mills, detectives executed a search warrant at his residence and located three firearms, one of which was equipped with a machinegun conversion device.
At the time of this arrest, Mills had previously been convicted of multiple felonies that prohibited him from being in possession of a firearm, including complicity to robbery in the first degree (nine counts), complicity to burglary in the first degree (four counts), possession of a firearm by convicted felon, illegal possession of a controlled substance, marijuana, while in possession of a firearm, and complicity to trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree, schedule II, methamphetamine, over two grams.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “With nine prior armed robbery convictions and four prior burglary convictions, Mills had absolutely no business being in possession of a firearm. And still, after serving previous sentences for those crimes, Mills chose to return to the streets of Louisville and sell methamphetamine, all while armed with a Glock pistol in his waistband. Mills’ conduct and criminal history earned him every day of the 15-year sentence he will now serve.”
“Drug dealers with guns are violent criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities,” stated ATF Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the Louisville Field Division. “It’s apparent that Mills did not learn from his past arrests and convictions so he will now serve the next 15 years in federal prison. ATF will continue to work alongside our local law enforcement partners to aggressively investigate, arrest and pursue prosecution of these offenders.”
Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department stated, “This sentence reflects the serious consequences that come with trafficking drugs while illegally possessing firearms. I’m proud of the work by our LMPD detectives and grateful for our partnership with ATF and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. Working together, we will continue holding dangerous criminals accountable."
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the ATF Louisville Field Division and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Lantz prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts 7 for Owensboro Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy following Homeland Security Task Force InvestigationRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Following a lengthy Homeland Security Task Force investigation, a federal grand jury in Bowling Green, Kentucky, returned an indictment on July 15, 2026, charging seven defendants, including three Mexican and two Guatemalan nationals, as part of an Owensboro-based methamphetamine and cocaine trafficking conspiracy. The defendants were arrested and the indictment was unsealed in federal court this week.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Todd C. Smith of the DEA Chicago Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Arthur Ealum, Jr. of the Owensboro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Ramon Molina-Torres,47, of Mexico, Francisco Pablo Alonzo, 23, of Guatemala, Diego Pablo Alonzo, 25, of Guatemala, Christopher Blaine McLimore, 41, of Owensboro, Deven Bellamy, 23, of Owensboro, Ayseymer Soto-Gomez, 24, of Mexico, and Eliazar Lopez-Pedraza, 46, of Mexico, were all charged with one count of conspiring together and with others to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 5 kilograms or more of cocaine from October 2025 through July 14, 2026, in Daviess County, Kentucky, and elsewhere.
Additionally, Molina-Torres was charged with 5 counts of distributing methamphetamine and having a prior serious drug felony conviction; Francisco Pablo Alonzo was charged with 2 counts of distributing methamphetamine; and Diego Pablo Alonzo was charged with 1 count of distributing methamphetamine.
On August 11, 2026, Molina-Torres, Francisco Pablo Alonzo, Diego Pablo Alonzo, Bellamy, and Soto-Gomez made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Lopez-Pedraza will make an initial appearance on August 12, 2026. McLimore is currently in state custody on unrelated charges and will make an initial appearance at a future date. If convicted, each of the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “The Homeland Security Task Force continues to investigate and charge significant drug trafficking organizations throughout Western Kentucky. The success of the Homeland Security Task Force results from interagency cooperation and the dedication of the men and women of law enforcement who have devoted their careers to public safety.”
“This investigation demonstrates the value of coordinated law enforcement efforts to disrupt drug trafficking organizations operating in our communities,” said Todd C. Smith, Special Agent in Charge of the DEA Chicago Field Division. “Through the Homeland Security Task Force and in partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, federal, state and local law enforcement agencies combined intelligence, resources and investigative expertise to target individuals allegedly involved in the distribution of methamphetamine and cocaine. DEA remains committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to dismantle drug trafficking networks, remove dangerous drugs from our communities, and hold those responsible accountable."
FBI Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, “This indictment should serve as a wake-up call to criminal organizations who are fueling the deadly drug trade throughout the Commonwealth. The FBI, as part of the Louisville Homeland Security Task Force, is working alongside our law enforcement partners at every level to ensure those who exploit our communities for their own profit face the full force of the law.”
“The Owensboro Police Department will continue its efforts to arrest and prosecute criminals who exploit those who suffer from addiction. We hope narcotics traffickers will someday realize the risk of mandatory federal prison time far outweigh the benefits of selling drugs in our community,” said Owensboro Police Chief Arthur Ealum, Jr. “We appreciate the continued collaboration with our federal, state and local partners to combat the flow of narcotics in and around the Greater Owensboro Metropolitan Area.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the DEA Evansville Resident Office, the FBI Owensboro Resident Agency, and the Owensboro Police Department, with assistance from IRS-CI, HSI Bowling Green Office, and the Indiana State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Mark Yurchisin are prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Aaron Cooper.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Federal Grand Juries in Bowling Green and Paducah Indict 10 Illegal Aliens for Immigration and Other Federal OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green and Paducah, KY – Federal grand juries in Bowling Green and Paducah, Kentucky, returned indictments on August 11 and 12, 2026, charging ten illegal aliens with federal charges. The charges included illegal reentry after deportation or removal, possessing a firearm as an illegal alien, and use of a false passport.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement, and Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
According to the indictments:
Juan Jose Ochoa-Avila, age 45, a citizen of Honduras, was charged in Paducah with possession of a firearm by an illegal alien and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. According to court documents and testimony, Ochoa-Avila purchased and possessed a 9-millimeter semiautomatic handgun between March and June of 2026 in Graves County, Kentucky. The Mayfield Police Department recovered the firearm from Ochoa-Avila’s residence in connection with another investigation. Ochoa-Avila left Kentucky and was arrested in South Carolina after learning of the investigation. Court records show that Ochoa-Avila was convicted of possession of a firearm by an illegal alien in 2008 in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of North Carolina. After his conviction, he was deported to Honduras. Ochoa-Avila unlawfully returned to the United States and, in 2011, was convicted of Illegal Reentry of a Deported Alien in the United States District Court for the District of New Jersey. Ochoa-Avila was again deported from the United States in 2015. Court records also show that Ochoa-Avila is wanted on a Murder warrant out of Honduras issued in 2019 and is the subject of an Interpol red notice. If convicted, he faces a maximum of 30 years in prison. This case is being investigated by ATF, HSI, and the Mayfield Police Department, with assistance from the Anderson County Sheriff’s Department in South Carolina.
Noel Carbajal-Panfilo, age 52, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Bowling Green with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and reentry after deportation or removal. On or about May 2, 2026, Carbajal-Panfilo was an alien found in the in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about February 19, 2003, and July 17, 2001. Additionally, Carbajal-Panfilo possessed seven firearms as an illegal alien. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 25 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI.
Nicolas Hernandez-Vargas, age 48, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Bowling Green with possession of a firearm by a prohibited person and reentry after deportation or removal. On or about July 30, 2026, Hernandez-Vargas was an alien found in the in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about April 3, 2009, and August 6, 2015. Additionally, Hernandez-Vargas possessed a shotgun as an illegal alien. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE-ERO.
Cesar Yoc-Coronado, age 29, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about July 18, 2026, Yoc-Coronado was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about August 23, 2017, and September 10, 2019. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. This case is being investigated by ICE-ERO.
Misael Hernandez Romero, age 35, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about July 24, 2026, Hernandez Romero was an alien found in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about March 29, 2012, and June 5, 2017. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE-ERO.
Errson Lopez Gomez, age 39, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about July 11, 2026, Lopez Gomez was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about March 1, 2017. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE-ERO.
Candelario Pastor-Gonzalez, age 31, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about July 21, 2026, Pastor-Gonzalez was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about July 12, 2017, and August 4, 2020. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE-ERO.
Mario Rodriguez-Gonzalez, age 58, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about August 3, 2026, Rodriguez-Gonzalez was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about May 13, 2004. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE-ERO.
Samuel Chavez-Nunez, 44, a citizen Mexico, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about July 28, 2026, Chavez-Nunez was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about March 23, 2012, and August 16, 2006. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE-ERO.
German Neri-Ibanez, 36, a citizen Mexico, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about July 23, 2026, Neri-Ibanez was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about December 22, 2016; December 19, 2016; November 5, 2016; November 19, 2013; and December 14, 2009. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE-ERO.
A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Just this week, our Office obtained ten federal indictments against illegal aliens that refuse to obey our country’s law and sovereignty. Some of these defendants have been charged with reentering our country illegally after having been previously removed. Others have been charged with purchasing and possessing firearms while unlawfully present. No matter the offense, the conduct alleged in the indictments demonstrates an unwillingness to follow the laws of our land.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark J. Yurchisin II, and R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, and Seth Hancock and Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, are prosecuting the cases.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 16 Years in Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced on August 7, 2026, to 16 years in prison for distribution of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Calvin Allen, 37, of Louisville, Kentucky, was sentenced to 16 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for distribution of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
On 9 different occasions between May and November 2025, Allen sold fentanyl powder to a confidential informant. The total amount of fentanyl from all of the controlled purchases was 712.84 grams. During a June 2025 drug transaction, Allen possessed a Glock GmbH, Model 29, 10-millimeter pistol in furtherance of the drug trafficking crime.
On November 24, 2025, a search warrant was executed at Allen’s residence. 60.26 grams of fentanyl powder, 13.32 grams of heroin and a Glock GmbH, Model 29, 10-millimeter pistol, and ammunition were seized. U.S. currency in the amount of $31,476.00 was seized as proceeds of drug trafficking during the execution of the search warrant.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Allen’s lengthy sentence is commensurate with the danger posed by the fentanyl he trafficked into the Western District of Kentucky. Too many families have lost loved ones to fentanyl or otherwise watched as a loved one suffered from deep drug addiction. Allen’s substantial sentence should give pause to others inclined to peddle fentanyl in Kentucky. Rest assured, our Office will not stop until the fentanyl is eradicated from our communities.”
“Many families have suffered enduring pain due to the drug epidemic across our country,” said Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the Louisville Division. “ATF is committed to working with our law enforcement partners to pursue drug dealers who use guns and violence to exploit the vulnerabilities that addiction creates. Drug dealers with guns are violent criminals who pose an increased threat to the safety of our communities.”
“Fentanyl trafficking combined with firearms is a lethal combination that ruins lives and destroys families,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Field Division. “I’m proud of the work done by DEA and our law enforcement partners to bring Mr. Allen to justice and prevent further harm to our community.”
"Fentanyl and illegal firearms are a dangerous combination that puts lives across Louisville at risk," said Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey. "This sentence reflects the serious consequences for those who profit from distributing deadly drugs while armed. I’m grateful for the persistent work of our LMPD investigators and our federal partners at ATF, DEA and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. By working together, we are holding those who fuel violence and addiction accountable and making Louisville a safer place.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the ATF Louisville Field Division, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the DEA Louisville Field Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Shelbyville Man Sentenced to 5 Years for Firearms Conspiracy, Dealing, Smuggling and False StatementsRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Shelbyville, Kentucky, man was sentenced on August 6, 2026, to 5 years in prison for conspiracy to deal in firearms without a license, dealing in firearms without a license, attempted smuggling of firearms from the United States and making false statements during the purchase of a firearm.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Acting Special Agent in Charge Bobby Kuszynski of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation Detroit Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Luis Garcia, 29, of Shelbyville, Kentucky, was sentenced to 5 years in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to deal in firearms without a license, dealing in firearms without a license, attempted smuggling of firearms from the United States and making false statements during the purchase of a firearm.
From April 8, 2021, to January 12, 2024, Garcia conspired with others to obtain firearms by means of false and fictitious statements; engaged in the business of dealing in firearms without a license; and obtained money and profit by illegally dealing in firearms without a license and exporting firearms from the United States to Honduras. During the conspiracy, Garcia purchased 83 firearms from various firearms dealers in Hardin, Jefferson and Nelson Counties. At the time of purchase for each firearm, Garcia made a false and fictitious written statement to a licensed dealer of firearms that he was the actual purchaser of the firearm.
On November 14, 2023, a package containing 7 firearms purchased by Garcia was intercepted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The package was examined by U.S Customs and Border Protection. After x-ray inspection of the package revealed unusual materials, the package was seized by U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Inside a large box of household items, a DeWalt Planer contained 7 firearms and magazines shipped to Honduras.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Illegal firearms trafficking to third-world countries serves to arm drug cartels and fuels violence throughout the Western Hemisphere. In turn, these cartels attempt to flood the United States with poisonous drugs that undermine society and destroy lives. We will continue to combat illegal firearms trafficking by aggressively prosecuting these defendants.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge John Nokes stated, "Federal firearms laws are designed to facilitate the lawful sale and transfer of firearms while preventing prohibited individuals from obtaining them. Garcia knowingly violated those laws by illegally purchasing firearms and smuggling them out of the United States. ATF remains committed to working alongside our partners on the HSTF to aggressively investigate firearms trafficking and straw purchasing schemes while disrupting the illegal flow of firearms."
“Illegal firearms trafficking is a serious threat that extends beyond our borders and fuels transnational criminal activity,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting. “This sentence reflects HSI’s commitment to working with our federal, state and local partners to investigate those who illegally acquire, conceal and attempt to export firearms from the United States.”
"The illegal trafficking and smuggling of firearms not only threatens public safety but also undermines the integrity of our financial systems. IRS Criminal Investigation is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to disrupt criminal networks that profit from these dangerous schemes. Today’s sentencing demonstrates our resolve to follow the money, dismantle illicit operations, and protect communities both here and abroad," said Robert Kuszynski, Acting Special Agent in Charge for IRS-CI Detroit.
“Illegally trafficked firearms are far more likely to end up in the hands of people who use them to commit crimes," said Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey. “This case is a great example of what we can accomplish when local and federal agencies work together to stop illegal activity and hold those responsible accountable.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the ATF Louisville Field Division, Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, DEA Louisville Field Division and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
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Clarksville, Tennessee, Woman Sentenced to 2 Years in Federal Prison and Ordered to Pay $291,470 in Restitution for Defrauding EmployerRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Clarksville, Tennessee, woman was sentenced this week to 2 years in federal prison on five counts of wire fraud.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
Kathleen M. Michaelis, 50, was sentenced to 2 years in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for five counts of wire fraud. According to court documents, between May 2017 and May 2024, Michaelis was employed as a bookkeeper for a business in Christian County, Kentucky. She embezzled over $238,000 from her employer utilizing a fraudulent check scheme. She used the stolen money to pay personal expenses. Michaelis concealed her scheme by failing to forward employee paystub withholdings to the United States Treasury and the company’s retirement plan.
Michaelis was also ordered to pay $291,470 in restitution.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI Bowling Green Satellite Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney’s Office for Western District of Kentucky Joining Law Enforcement, Community Leaders and Neighbors for National Night OutRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Today, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is joining law enforcement partners, community leaders and neighbors at the Louisville Metro Police Department’s National Night Out events across Louisville to promote stronger, safer communities. The office will also host an information booth featuring crime prevention tips and safety resources for families at LMPD’s Eighth Division event at Warren Walker Park in the Douglass Hills neighborhood.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Our prosecutors have devoted their careers to making our communities safer. National Night Out is an important event for members of our office to build camaraderie with people we serve and to have a lot of fun.”
National Night Out is an annual community-building campaign that promotes partnerships and camaraderie between law enforcement and the communities they serve to make our neighborhoods safer places to live. Millions of people take part in National Night Out across thousands of communities throughout the country on the first Tuesday of August in most areas of the country.
Coordinated by local law enforcement and trained volunteers, National Night Out provides an opportunity to bring police and neighbors together under positive circumstances. Neighborhoods host block parties, cookouts, festivals, parades, safety demonstrations, seminars, youth events, visits from emergency personnel and more. National Night Out sends a message that neighbors are united and working together to keep their communities and each other safe.
National Night Out was established in 1984 with funding from the Bureau of Justice Assistance of the U.S. Department of Justice. The program is administered by the National Association of Town Watch, a nationwide non-profit organization.
For more information, visit https://natw.org/.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts 7 for Drug Offenses Following Homeland Security Task Force InvestigationRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Following a lengthy investigation by the Louisville Homeland Security Task force, a federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on July 22, 2026, charging seven local individuals with conspiring to distribute controlled substances, and one individual with firearm- and methamphetamine-related charges. Six of these individuals have been arrested.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Kuszynski, IRS Criminal Investigation Detroit Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting, Homeland Security Investigations – Nashville, and Chief Paul L. Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.According to the indictment, Michael Morris, Lajuan Sanders, James Moorman, Wayne Allen, Miriam Thompson-Morris, Gary Ross and Jeffery Roberson were all charged with one count of conspiring to distribute 500 grams or more of mixture and substance containing cocaine from April 13, 2026, through July 22, 2026, in Jefferson County, Kentucky.
Additionally, James Moorman was charged with one count of possession of firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession with intent to distribute five grams or more of methamphetamine and possessing a firearm with the knowledge he had previously been convicted of a felony, specifically:
On or about January 23, 1990, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in case number 89-CR-1087, James Moorman was convicted of the offenses of trafficking in a controlled substance cocaine (two counts);
On or about September 6, 1995, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in case number 95-CR-0208, James Moorman was convicted of the offenses of illegal possession of controlled substance in the first degree, tampering with physical evidence;
On or about October 14, 1996, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in case number 96-CR-2298, James Moorman was convicted of the offenses of trafficking in controlled substance cocaine and illegal possession of a controlled substance cocaine;
On or about June 3, 2003, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in case number 01-CR-2060, James Moorman was convicted of the offenses of trafficking in controlled substance in the first degree while in possession of a firearm subsequent offender, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, illegal possession of a controlled substance in the second degree while in possession of a firearm;
On or about June 3, 2003, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in case number 02-CR-1628, James Moorman was convicted of the offenses of trafficking in controlled substance in the first degree cocaine subsequent offender;
On or about September 17, 2019, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in case number 17-CR-2407, James Moorman was convicted of the offenses of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree heroin two grams or more, trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree cocaine, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon;
On or about September 17, 2019, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in case number 18-CR-1841, James Moorman was convicted of the offenses of illegal possession of a controlled substance methamphetamine, tampering with physical evidence; and
On or about September 17, 2019, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, in case number 18-CR-3425, James Moorman was convicted of the offenses of illegal possession of a controlled substance heroin, tampering with physical evidence.
On July 29, 2026, six of the seven defendants made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Jeffery Roberson will make his initial appearance at a later date. If convicted, James Moorman faces a minimum sentence of 20 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. If convicted, Michael Morris, Lajuan Sanders, Wayne Allen, Miriam Thompson-Morris, Gary Ross and Jeffery Roberson face a minimum sentence of five years in prison and a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “The Louisville Homeland Security Task Force is a national model for interagency cooperation and productivity. Agents from multiple federal agencies working seamlessly with the Louisville Metro Police Department are constantly working long-term investigations against significant drug trafficking organizations for the betterment of our community. It is truly an honor to announce this important indictment and commend the success of our law enforcement partners.”
DEA Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott stated, “The DEA, alongside our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, remains committed to pursuing those who profit from trafficking dangerous drugs while fueling violence in our communities. By bringing the full resources of the federal government to bear against career criminals, we are sending a clear message to those who peddle poison on our streets: your days are numbered.”
"The men and women of ATF remain steadfast in our commitment to identifying and targeting those who drive violent crime through the illegal use of firearms and narcotics trafficking. Working alongside our partners on the HSTF, we will continue to investigate and dismantle violent offenders and organized criminal groups, ensuring they are held accountable and face the significant federal prison sentences they deserve," said John Nokes, Special Agent in Charge of the ATF Louisville Field Division.
FBI Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, "This long-term investigation and subsequent arrest operation demonstrates the HSTF mission in action. By bringing together federal, state, and local partners, HSTF Louisville leverages every available law enforcement authority and resource to enforce the laws of the United States. When we operate with unity, purpose, and integrity, we are stronger together and better equipped to confront the threats facing our communities. FBI Louisville is proud to serve alongside our HSTF partners, whose collective expertise and shared commitment make operations like this possible."
"This indictment is the result of the unyielding dedication by the Louisville Homeland Security Task Force. By dismantling this drug trafficking organization, IRS-CI and our law enforcement partners are taking a significant step toward protecting our communities from the dangers of illegal narcotics and violent crime. We remain committed to pursuing those who threaten public safety and to ensuring justice is served," said Robert Kuszynski, Acting Special Agent in Charge, IRS-CI Detroit Field Office.
“Through the close coordination and shared purpose of the Homeland Security Task Force, we are able to bring the full strength of our collective authorities and resources to bear against those who threaten public safety and national security. Every arrest, every victim identified, and every threat disrupted reflects our dedication to safeguarding the American people,” said HSI Nashville Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting.
LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey stated, "This investigation is another example of what can be accomplished when local, state, and federal law enforcement work together with a shared commitment to protecting our community. I want to thank every investigator who spent countless hours on this case to make our neighborhoods safer."
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the DEA, ATF, FBI, IRS-CI, HSI and FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joshua R. Porter and Frank E. Dahl, III, are prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Adela Alic.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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United States Reaches $7.5 Million Settlement with Ascend Elements to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Involving Department of Energy GrantRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY – U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky announced today that Ascend Elements, Inc., a Massachusetts-based lithium-ion battery materials manufacturer, has agreed to pay $7,497,555.65 to resolve civil allegations that it submitted inflated reimbursement claims to the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) for work on its Apex‑1 battery materials project in Hopkinsville, Kentucky.
The settlement resolves the United States’ contention that, between September 18, 2023 and February 18, 2025, Ascend sought and received DOE reimbursement for goods and services that included inflated labor hours, excessive tool purchases, unnecessary equipment rentals, and other wasteful or unnecessary expenses related to its industrial-scale battery precursor production project. DOE paid more than $5.3 million tied to this conduct.
Ascend voluntarily divulged the issues to the government and received credit for its cooperation, which included a timely self-disclosure, an internal investigation, and assisting the United States in understanding the full scope of the conduct.
“This settlement reflects the Department of Justice’s commitment to ensuring that federal funds supporting critical energy and infrastructure projects are safeguarded from misuse,” said Kyle Bumgarner, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky. “Companies that receive taxpayer dollars must be held to the highest standards, and today’s recovery demonstrates that voluntary self-disclosure and cooperation will be met with appropriate credit, while still ensuring accountability.”
Assistant United States Attorney Jessica R. C. Malloy handled this matter for the United States, with support from the U.S. Department of Energy.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.
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Robert Scott Froberg Pleads Guilty in 30-Year-Old Cold Case Involving the Kidnapping and Murder of Morgan Violi. Froberg Agreed to a Life SentenceRead the Press Release
BOWLING GREEN, KY – Robert Scott Froberg, originally from Dayton, Ohio, pled guilty on July 22, 2026, in United States District Court to kidnapping and murdering 7-year-old Morgan Violi on July 24, 1996.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Chief Michael Delaney of the Bowling Green Police Department, Robertson County, Tennessee Sheriff Mike Van Dyke and Commonwealth’s Attorney for the 8th Judicial Circuit Kori Beck Bumgarner made the announcement.
For three decades, despite the tireless efforts of law enforcement, Morgan’s kidnapping and murder remained an unsolved crime. According to the complaint, since the 1990s, the processing of DNA has undergone significant advancements including the creation of the Combined DNA Index System (CODIS), a national database that stores DNA profiles for comparison purposes. Due to these known advancements, additional laboratory testing was requested, leading to a breakthrough in the investigation and, ultimately, to the arrest and conviction of Robert Scott Froberg.
Robert Scott Froberg, 61, of Dayton, Ohio, was arrested for armed robbery in Alabama on December 27, 1988. On April 3, 1996, Froberg escaped from the custody of the Alabama Department of Corrections. Froberg fled to Mount Carmel, Pennsylvania. On May 20, 1996, Froberg attempted to lure a 7-year-old boy into a treehouse. Fortunately, the young boy ran to tell his mother about the interaction. The young boy’s mother called law enforcement and Froberg was arrested after a short chase. He was taken to the Northumberland County Jail.
On July 16, 1996, Froberg again escaped from custody and fled to Dayton, Ohio. On July 23, 1996, Froberg stole a maroon Chevrolet van from behind a residence near where his parents resided. Froberg left Dayton heading toward Huntsville, Alabama.
On July 24, 1996, Froberg exited I-65 South at a Bowling Green exit. Froberg drove to the Colony Apartments. Froberg attempted to abduct 7-year-old Morgan Violi’s friend. She was able to escape from Froberg’s grasp. Then, Froberg grabbed Morgan and threw her into the stolen van. Froberg fled with Morgan from Bowling Green on I-65 South. He exited I-65 at the White House, Tennessee exit. Froberg pulled over near a barn off the exit. Froberg strangled Morgan causing her death. Froberg left her body near the barn and fled from the scene.
Froberg pleaded guilty to one count of kidnapping resulting in death. He is scheduled to be sentenced on November 2, 2026, at 10:30 a.m. in United States District Court in Bowling Green. If the Court accepts the terms of the plea agreement, Froberg will receive a Life sentence. There is no parole in the federal system, so a Life sentence means incarceration until the end of life.
United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner stated, “It is hard to envision a more egregious crime than the abduction and murder of a 7-year-old child. This evil act left Morgan’s family devastated and began 30 years of unanswered questions and torturing sadness. This evil act also left the parents in our community wondering if this previously unknown predator would strike again. Whose child would he steal next… This defendant’s depravity forever changed Morgan’s family and Bowling Green. Morgan’s abduction has been an open wound in our community for 30 years. Yesterday, Morgan’s family and our Bowling Green community witnessed this defendant admit his horrors and agree to a Life sentence. I am so thankful that my office, along with our incredible law enforcement partners, played an important role in this guilty plea.”
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner, First Assistant United States Attorney Brian Butler and Assistant United States Attorney Kayla Campbell are prosecuting the case.
This case was investigated by the FBI Bowling Green Satellite Office, the Bowling Green Police Department and the Robertson County, Tennessee Sheriff’s Office. The lead investigators are Supervisory Special Agent Will Kurtz of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent Rene Chouinard of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Special Agent Eric Strough of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Detective David Grimsley of the Bowling Green Police Department and Intelligence Analysist Laura Stump of Federal Bureau of Investigation.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts 13 for Owensboro Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy Following Homeland Security Task Force InvestigationRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Following a lengthy investigation by the Louisville Homeland Security Task Force, a federal grand jury in Bowling Green, Kentucky, returned an indictment on July 15, 2026, charging thirteen Owensboro based men and women as part of a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy. All thirteen individuals were arrested this week.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Todd C. Smith of the DEA Chicago Field Division and Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Michael Mayfield, 68, of Owensboro, Shawn Pendleton, 29, of Owensboro, Andrew Owen, 33, of Owensboro, James Jordan McCarthy, 35, of Owensboro, Brandon Horne, 43, of Owensboro, Rodney Murch, 43, of Owensboro, Timothy Barnes, 67, of Owensboro, Byron Todd Huff, 52, of Owensboro, Brooke Love-Moss, 35, of Owensboro, Gregory Belcher, 65, of Philpot, Jonathan Boone, 41, of Owensboro, Stephan Hill, 63, of Owensboro, and Jeremy Royal, 49, of Owensboro, were all charged with one count of conspiring together and with others to possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine from November 2025 through July 14, 2026, in Daviess County, Kentucky, and elsewhere.
Additionally, Mayfield was charged with 2 counts of distributing methamphetamine; Owen was charged with 1 count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; and Pendleton was charged with 3 counts of distributing methamphetamine and 2 counts of distributing cocaine.
On July 22, 2026, Mayfield, Pendleton, Owen, McCarthy, Horne, Belcher, Boone, and Hill made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Huff and Love-Moss are scheduled to make initial appearances on July 23, 2025. Murch and Royal will make initial appearances at a future date. Detention hearings are scheduled to take place before a U.S. Magistrate Judge beginning July 27, 2026. If convicted, each of the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Unfortunately dope dealers in Daviess County, Kentucky, have not taken heed of previous federal drug trafficking indictments that resulted in substantial sentences. As alleged in the Indictment unsealed today, this drug trafficking organization operated for nearly nine months, distributing methamphetamine onto the streets of Owensboro, until they were taken down in a sweeping law enforcement operation conducted in the early morning hours of July 22. Now, because of tremendous work by the Owensboro Police Department, the Daviess County Sheriff’s Department, and the federal agents comprising Louisville’s Homeland Security Task Force, our Office is positioned to hold each of these defendants accountable for the methamphetamine they allegedly pushed into Daviess County. Neither this office nor or federal, state, or local law enforcement partners will stop until drug traffickers learn that Daviess County is closed for business.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the DEA Evansville Resident Office, the FBI Owensboro Resident Office, the Owensboro Police Department and the Owensboro-Daviess County Drug Task Force with assistance from IRS-CI, the Daviess County Sheriff’s Office, HSI Bowling Green Office, Indiana State Police, Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl and Mark Yurchisin are prosecuting the case with assistance from Paralegal Specialist Aaron Cooper.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 75 Years in Federal Prison for 9 Federal Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Jefferson County man was sentenced today to 75 years in federal prison after being convicted in March, following a week-long jury trial, of three counts of sexual exploitation of children, two counts of receipt of child pornography, two counts of distribution of child pornography, one count of possession of child pornography and one count of commission of a felony against a child by a person required to register as a sex offender.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul L. Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Quinnton Dawson, 35, was sentenced to 75 years in federal prison followed by a life term on supervised release. The Court ordered Dawson to pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim.
In January of 2022, Dawson was convicted in Jefferson Circuit Court of 25 counts of possession of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor, one count of distribution of matter portraying a sexual performance by a minor, and one count distribution of sexually explicit images without consent–first offense pursuant to indictment number 20-CR-002017. Dawson was sentenced to five years in prison but was granted shock probation in May 2022.
While released on shock probation, Dawson used his Yahoo email account to send and receive images and videos of child sexual abuse material on July 13 and 15, 2022. In August 2022, using the images and videos he traded on the internet as motivation, inspiration, and a script, Dawson engaged in the production of child pornography when he used an electronic storage device to record himself engaging in sexual acts with a 4-year-old child.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Nothing can restore the innocence that Dawson stole from these young child victims with his depraved conduct. Fortunately, these victims will never have to worry about being harmed by Dawson again because he will now serve out his remaining days behind bars at a federal prison. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder with our local and federal law enforcement partners, our Office will continue to seek justice for vulnerable victims and hold child predators to full account under federal law.”
Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, "This sentence is a reflection of the FBI's commitment and dedication to protecting our nation's children and to holding accountable those who choose to exploit their vulnerability. We know that we cannot get back the innocence lost, but we hope some semblance of peace is gained knowing Quinnton Dawson will never experience freedom again. Rest assured, FBI Louisville is working hard every single day, alongside our law enforcement partners, to remove child predators from our communities."
Chief Paul L. Humphrey stated, "No punishment can undo the harm inflicted on a child, but this sentence ensures a dangerous offender will spend the rest of his life where he belongs: behind bars and off the streets of our community. I want to commend our detectives and federal partners whose relentless work helped bring this case to justice. We will continue working together to aggressively pursue anyone who exploits children."
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danielle M. Yannelli prosecuted the case with the assistance of paralegal Carissa Moss.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
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Crestwood Man Sentenced to over 6 Years in Federal Prison for Narcotics-Related OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Crestwood man was sentenced on July 20, 2026, to 6 years and 5 months in federal prison for narcotics-related offenses.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Marie Maguire of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office, and Chief Paul L. Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Matthew Ryan Elkins, age 41, of Crestwood, Kentucky, was sentenced to 6 years and 5 months for tampering with consumer products, acquiring a controlled substance by misrepresentation, fraud, deceit, and subterfuge and burglary involving controlled substances. The Court also imposed a $15,000 fine and three years on supervised release following his incarceration. Elkins also forfeited his Kentucky nursing licenses.
Elkins’ convictions stem from an arrest on March 21, 2024, by LMPD. Elkins, a contract nurse anesthetist for a Louisville pain treatment center, was caught by patrol officers in the act of burglarizing the pain treatment center and removing controlled substances intended for patients.
Patients of the pain treatment center were typically palliative care patients, patients with histories of cancer, spinal injuries, brain injuries, failed back surgeries, or other severe diseases. Intrathecal pain pumps were implanted to treat these patients, for whom all other therapies had proven ineffective. The liquid medications in these pumps were refilled periodically using a pre-filled syringe containing pain medicine, bearing the patient’s name and filled according to each patient’s needs. Prior to filling the patient’s pump, the pre-filled syringe was stored in the office safe.
Elkins admitted to LMPD officers that he had been removing narcotics from the office twice a week for at least three months. Elkins described how he would remove pain medications from pre-filled syringes (intended for specific patients’ pain pumps), deposit the pain meds into a separate vial, and save them for personal use. After removing the pain medications from the syringes, Elkins would refill them with sodium chloride and place them back in the safe in an attempt to evade detection. As a result, patients received heavily diluted and adulterated medications. Elkins’ actions caused patients to suffer extreme pain, sickness, and other withdrawal symptoms.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Matthew Elkins abused the trust of his patients and this community by stealing essential medications from vulnerable victims, tampering with their medications to avoid detection, and causing them severe injury. Today’s sentence is the result of seamless cooperation between federal, state, and local law enforcement and reaffirms our commitment to seek justice for vulnerable victims.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the Kentucky Office of the Inspector General, Drug Enforcement and Professional Practices Branch.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin McKenzie prosecuted the case.
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Two Men Sentenced for Distribution of Methamphetamine and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man and Berea man were sentenced on July 2, 2026, to 18 years and 7 years respectively for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Acting Special Agent in Charge Bobby Kuszynski of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Shawn Beason, 36, of Louisville, Kentucky, was sentenced to 18 years in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
Justin Cummins, 29, of Berea, Kentucky, was sentenced to 7 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess methamphetamine with intent to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On April 5, 2024, investigators were conducting surveillance of Shawn Beason. Beason was followed and observed in the Lowe’s parking lot located at 9800 Preston Crossings Boulevard, Louisville, Kentucky. Investigators observed Justin Cummins, enter the backseat of Beason's vehicle and remain there for approximately one minute before exiting and returning to his vehicle. Beason then departed from the area.
After Beason departed from the area, investigators conducted surveillance on Cummins and conducted a traffic stop of Cummins’ vehicle. Law enforcement recovered 536.9 grams of methamphetamine from the vehicle.
On February 24, 2025, a search warrant was executed at Beason’s residence. Two firearms were seized during the search: a Glock, 17 Gen 4, 9mm pistol and a Glock, 42, .380 caliber pistol. Beason was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses:
On July 27, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, Beason, was convicted of complicity to trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree (two counts).
On July 27, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, Beason, was convicted of enhanced trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree.
On July 27, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, Beason, was convicted of complicity to trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree.
On July 27, 2018, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Jefferson County, Kentucky, Beason, was convicted of complicity to trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree.
Based upon his criminal history, Beason qualified as a Career Offender and Armed Career Criminal and was sentenced to 18 years in prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Louisville has been plagued by career criminals who remain armed and continue to sell drugs. This Department of Justice is determined and committed to imprison these incorrigible career criminals to make our communities safer. My hope is that Beason’s 18 year prison sentence sends a strong deterrent message to Louisville’s other career criminals to stop and stop now.”
Special Agent in Charge John Nokes stated, “The sentence Beason and his co-conspirator received in this case shows ATF’s commitment to keeping the public safe from career offenders and those who continue to plague our communities with harmful narcotics.”
Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department stated, “These criminals fueled the distribution of dangerous drugs on our streets. Thanks to the relentless efforts of our law enforcement partners, they have been held accountable, and our community is safer because of it.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the ATF Louisville Field Division, the Louisville Metro Police Department, the DEA Louisville Field Division, Homeland Security Investigations, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation and the Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
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Repeat Sex Offender Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation OffenseRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY –A Jefferson County man was sentenced this week to 15 years in federal prison for two counts of receipt of child pornography.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
William James Lewis, 34, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by a life term of supervised release, for using a cellular telephone to communicate with other individuals on an application called Telegram to seek out photos and videos of child pornography. At the time Lewis was on state supervision for having been previously convicted of possession of child pornography.
In 2017, Lewis was convicted of ten counts of possession of child pornography in Fayette Circuit Court, Lexington, Kentucky and was sentenced to 8 years in prison followed by five years of sex offender post incarceration supervision.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Lewis was undeterred by his previous 8-year state prison sentence for possessing child pornography. Shortly after his release, he reengaged in reprehensible act of seeking out and receiving more child pornography. Because of the incredible investigative work by local and federal law enforcement partners, Lewis will now serve 15 years in federal prison. When he’s released this time, he’ll spend the remainder of his life under the supervision of the federal probation office—ensuring that he does not continue to victimize our most vulnerable.”
Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, “This case is an example of the incredible difference we can make when the FBI and local law enforcement partners work together to protect our most vulnerable citizens. Lewis' repeated attempts to acquire child pornography, despite his prior incarceration, are a stark reminder of the call to remain vigilant. Our children deserve no less."
Louisville Metro Police Chief Paul Humphrey stated, “These crimes are reprehensible and unacceptable. This sentence sends a clear message that those who exploit children will be held accountable. Even after a prior conviction and prison sentence, this offender continued to engage in behavior that fuels the victimization and abuse of some of our most vulnerable citizens. There is no place in our community for child predators. LMPD will continue working with our federal partners to identify offenders, protect children, and pursue justice for victims.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by FBI with the assistance of LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Yannelli 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. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
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Civil Settlements Reached as Part of Department of Justice National Health Care Fraud TakedownRead the Press Release
Today, United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner for the Western District of Kentucky announced civil settlements with 6 defendants in connection with false claims submitted to Medicaid. The civil settlements are part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The civil settlements, totaling $23,816,217.60, stem from alleged fraudulent billings to Medicaid for services not provided or tainted by financial conflicts of interest.
“These settlements reflect our unwavering commitment to protecting vulnerable Medicaid beneficiaries and ensuring the integrity of publicly funded programs,” said Kyle G. Bumgarner, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky. “When providers place their own financial interests ahead of the people they serve, they not only break the law—they put elderly adults and individuals with disabilities at risk of losing the vital supports that allow them to remain safely in their homes. We will continue to hold accountable those who compromise the care our communities rely on.”
“This year’s National Health Care Fraud Takedown represents the greatest whole-of-government effort to combat health care fraud in our Nation’s history,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Under the decisive leadership of President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, and our law enforcement partners, this administration has ushered in a new era of enforcement that will safeguard taxpayer dollars.”
The civil settlements announced today by U. S. Attorney Bumgarner are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in charges against 455 defendants, including 90 doctors and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes involving over $6.5 billion in false claims and significant patient harm, including death. Today’s Takedown represents a new era in federal, state, and international cooperation to combat health care fraud: cases in 56 federal districts and 45 U.S. states and territories, with 50 state Medicaid Fraud Control Units participating, the most in Department history. In addition, unprecedented international cooperation over the two-week Takedown resulted in the apprehension and return to the United States of the following health care fraudsters: one defendant in Kyrenia in connection with an over $3.7 billion scheme; two defendants in Estonia in connection with a previously charged $10.6 billion scheme; and, in the Philippines, one of FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters in connection with a previously-charged $1.2 billion telemedicine fraud scheme. The Takedown involves the cutting-edge use of data analytics to target the worst actors; the seizure of over $182 million in cash, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other assets; and full-spectrum accountability for all criminal actors from doctor’s offices to corporate boardrooms.
Today’s coordinated enforcement action involves a whole-of-government approach, including:
- Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers.
- 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers.
- Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million.
- 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025.
The following individuals and entities agreed to civil settlements with the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky:
Defendants Access Adult Health Day Care Center LLC (Access), Encore AHDC LLC (Encore), and Tatyanas Case Management LLC (TCM) and their respective owners agreed to collectively pay the United States $23,816,217.60 to resolve allegations they violated the False Claims Act, a federal statute that prohibits the submission of false claims for payment to Government programs, such as Medicaid. Serge Adamov, 56, of North Miami Beach, Florida, owned Access, Inna Frimerman, 50, of Overland Park, Kansas, owned Encore, and Tatyana Kolesnikova, 41, of Louisville, Kentucky owned TCM.
Access, Encore, and TCM provided services to Kentucky Medicaid beneficiaries through the Home and Community Based (HCB) Waiver Program. The HCB Waiver Program assists elderly individuals and people with physical disabilities in living as independently as possible in their communities. As part of this program, these providers were responsible for delivering conflict‑free case management services and in‑home attendant care, including tasks such as cooking and cleaning.
The United States alleges that Adamov, Frimerman and Kolesnikova had shared financial interests and maximized their profits by referring HCB Waiver beneficiaries to Access and Encore for attendant care services. The United States further alleges that Access and Encore then billed Medicaid for attendant care services which, in some instances, were not provided for as many hours as were billed and in others were not provided at all.
The civil settlement agreements resolve a lawsuit brought by a private citizen under the qui tam provisions of the False Claims Act. The civil case was filed in U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky and is captioned United States ex rel. Bhatt v. Access, et al., Case No. 3:19-cv-452-RGJ-RSE.
Contemporaneous with the execution of their civil settlement, Tatyana Kolesnikova and TCM entered into a Corporate Integrity Agreement (CIA) with the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General. The CIA requires implementation of comprehensive compliance controls and claims reviews by an Independent Review Organization.
Assistant United States Attorney Matthew Weyand handled this matter for the United States with assistance from Auditor Phil Bezehertny and Investigator Cristal Fox. This case was also investigated by Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control and the FBI Louisville Field Office.
“Health care fraud steals from taxpayers, exploits vulnerable patients, and puts lives at risk,” said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “Today’s historic enforcement action sends a clear message: if you use our health care system to enrich yourself at the expense of patients or the American people, we will find you, we will prosecute you, and we will hold you accountable. HHS will continue working with our law enforcement partners to protect patients, safeguard taxpayer dollars, and restore integrity to our health care system.”
The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, Texas, and West Coast Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Alabama, District of Arizona, Central District of California, Southern District of California, District of Colorado, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Northern District of Georgia, District of Hawaii, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Northern District of Iowa, Southern District of Iowa, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nebraska, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, District of New Mexico, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Middle District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, Northern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Middle District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Pennsylvania, District of Puerto Rico, District of Rhode Island, District of South Carolina, District of South Dakota, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Virginia, Northern District of West Virginia, Southern District of West Virginia, Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Western District of Wisconsin; and State Attorneys General’s Offices, through their MFCUs, in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. In addition, the MFCUs for Alabama, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, and Virginia participated in the investigation of federal cases announced today.
Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website here.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
The claims resolved by the civil settlements are allegations only; there has been no determination of liability.
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5 Individuals and 2 Companies Charged as Part of Department of Justice National Health Care Fraud TakedownRead the Press Release
Today, United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky announced criminal charges across 4 cases and against 7 defendants in connection with alleged schemes to defraud Medicare and Medicaid. The charges filed in federal court are part of the Department of Justice’s 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown. The charges stem from fraudulent billing of Medicaid and Medicare, identity theft, misuse of a DEA number, making false statements relating to health care matters, acquiring and attempting to acquire controlled substances by misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Today, we announce four separate indictments charging five individuals and two local companies with defrauding the Medicaid and Medicare health programs. Those programs provide vital healthcare coverage to the elderly and the disadvantaged. They are funded by the hard work of the American taxpayer. As alleged in the respective charging documents, these defendants allegedly defrauded those vital healthcare programs, costing millions in loss to the American taxpayer and putting their own profit above the needs of patients.”
“These indictments are the product of President Trump and Vice President Vance’s determination to root out fraud that has plagued our healthcare programs for too long,” said U.S. Attorney Bumgarner. “And, these indictments were only secured because the Commonwealth of Kentucky is fortunate to have well-coordinated federal and state law enforcement agencies focused on achieving a single mission: to identify and hold accountable anyone that steals from the American taxpayer. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky is committed to investigating and prosecuting health care fraud and aggressively pursuing restitution from the criminals that have defrauded hardworking American citizens. Congratulations to the law enforcement agencies and Assistant United States Attorneys who have worked diligently to bring these important health care fraud investigations to fruition.”
“This year’s National Health Care Fraud Takedown represents the greatest whole-of-government effort to combat health care fraud in our Nation’s history,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Under the decisive leadership of President Donald Trump, Vice President JD Vance, the White House Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, and our law enforcement partners, this administration has ushered in a new era of enforcement that will safeguard taxpayer dollars.”
"Every dollar stolen from Kentucky's Medicaid system is a dollar taken from someone in need. Our Office is proud to work with the outstanding U.S. Attorney in the Western District of Kentucky, Kyle Bumgarner and other federal partners in holding fraudsters accountable for stealing your tax dollars," said Attorney General Russell Coleman. "We're laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who take advantage of the vital Medicaid program and defraud our Commonwealth."
The charges announced today by U.S. Attorney Bumgarner are part of a strategically coordinated, nationwide law enforcement action that resulted in charges against 455 defendants, including 90 doctors and other licensed medical professionals, for their alleged participation in health care fraud and opioid abuse schemes involving over $6.5 billion in false claims and significant patient harm, including death. Today’s Takedown represents a new era in federal, state, and international cooperation to combat health care fraud: cases in 56 federal districts and 45 U.S. states and territories, with 50 state Medicaid Fraud Control Units participating, the most in Department history. In addition, unprecedented international cooperation over the two-week Takedown resulted in the apprehension and return to the United States of the following health care fraudsters: one defendant in Kyrenia in connection with an over $3.7 billion scheme; two defendants in Estonia in connection with a previously charged $10.6 billion scheme; and, in the Philippines, one of FBI’s Most Wanted Fraudsters in connection with a previously-charged $1.2 billion telemedicine fraud scheme. The Takedown involves the cutting-edge use of data analytics to target the worst actors; the seizure of over $182 million in cash, luxury vehicles, jewelry, and other assets; and full-spectrum accountability for all criminal actors from doctor’s offices to corporate boardrooms.
Today’s coordinated enforcement action involves a whole-of-government approach, including:
- Actions by the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) to suspend 1,079 providers and revoke billing privileges for 1,403 providers.
- 48 Civil Monetary Payment settlements amounting to over $73 million, over 1,400 provider exclusions, and 25 actions by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General (“HHS-OIG”) under the Civil Monetary Penalties Law seeking more than $10 billion in payments to the Medicare Trust Fund from payments that CMS caught and suspended before the funds were paid to the fraudulent providers.
- Civil charges against 13 defendants for $14.8 million in health care fraud schemes, as well as civil settlements with 31 defendants totaling $23 million.
- 928 administrative cases by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) seeking the revocation of authority to handle and/or prescribe controlled substances since October 1, 2025.
The following individuals were charged in the Western District of Kentucky.
Angela Renfro, 57, Briana Gosnell, 35, KLF Company LLC, and Freedom Center LLC, all of Louisville, Kentucky, were charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud and health care fraud in connection with billing for services that were fraudulent, unauthorized, and in many instances, not rendered, resulting in the submission of $11,049,088.08 in fraudulent and unauthorized claims to Kentucky Medicaid, of which $10,735,081.56 was paid. As alleged in the indictment, KLF Company LLC entered into agreements with certain medical providers to provide services to its clients. As part of the conspiracy, Renfro and Gosnell used the providers' National Provider Identifiers (“NPIs”) to bill, through KLF Company LLC and Freedom Center LLC, for peer support and psychoeducation services that were fraudulent, unauthorized and, at times, not rendered. Renfro and Gosnell were also charged with aggravated identity theft for using the APRNs’ NPI numbers without their knowledge and permission. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joe Ansari, Kayla Campbell, and David Weiser of the Western District of Kentucky, with the assistance of the Kentucky Medicaid Fraud Control Unit. This case is being investigated by the FBI Louisville Field Office and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control.
Dr. Christian Berkhahn, 51, of Louisville, Kentucky, was charged by information with conspiracy to obtain controlled substances by fraud or deceit and health care fraud in connection with using his DEA number to order controlled substances in others’ names. As alleged in the information, Dr. Berkhahn, a physician, prescribed Cotempla, a Schedule II controlled substance, in his employee’s child’s name and requested the employee retrieve the prescription from the pharmacy and provide it to Dr. Berkhahn. As further alleged, Dr. Berkhahn prescribed oxycodone, a Schedule II controlled substance, in the name of another individual, knowing that someone else would actually acquire the prescription from the pharmacy. Both drugs were paid for by Kentucky Medicaid. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joe Ansari and Kayla Campbell of the Western District of Kentucky. This case is being investigated by the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Kentucky State Police, the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Office of Inspector General, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control.
Einar Serrano Reyes, 35, of Opa-Locka, Florida, was charged by indictment with conspiracy to commit health care fraud, health care fraud, and aggravated identity theft in connection with billing for services that were not rendered, resulting in the submission of $315,050 in false claims to Medicare. As alleged in the indictment, Reyes entered into a lease agreement on behalf of JL Serenity Center LLC for a building located in Louisville, Kentucky. As part of the conspiracy, Reyes credentialed JL Serenity Center LLC with Medicare in order to bill for medical services. As further part of the conspiracy, Reyes hired a medical doctor to allegedly oversee medical treatment at JL Serenity Center LLC. Ultimately, Reyes used the doctor’s NPI number to bill Medicare for services not rendered to any patients. Reyes is also charged with aggravated identity theft for using the name and social security number of another person without lawful authority when submitting the false Medicare claims. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joe Ansari and Kayla Campbell of the Western District of Kentucky. This case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Meredith Rachael Douglass, 38, of Louisville, Kentucky, was charged by indictment with theft of medical products, making false statements relating to health care matters, and acquiring and attempting to acquire controlled substances by misrepresentation, fraud, deception, and subterfuge. As alleged in the indictment, Douglass, a registered nurse and hospital employee, stole controlled substances from the hospitals where she worked. As further alleged in the indictment, Douglass used her position to obtain fentanyl, hydromorphone, and oxycodone. Finally, as alleged, Douglass falsely documented vital signs and fentanyl administration for a patient after the patient had been discharged from the hospital. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joe Ansari and Kayla Campbell of the Western District of Kentucky. This case is being investigated by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General and the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
“Health care fraud steals from taxpayers, exploits vulnerable patients, and puts lives at risk,” said U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Secretary Robert F. Kennedy, Jr. “Today’s historic enforcement action sends a clear message: if you use our health care system to enrich yourself at the expense of patients or the American people, we will find you, we will prosecute you, and we will hold you accountable. HHS will continue working with our law enforcement partners to protect patients, safeguard taxpayer dollars, and restore integrity to our health care system.”
The cases are being prosecuted by the Health Care Fraud Unit’s National Rapid Response, Florida, Gulf Coast, Los Angeles, Midwest, New England, Northeast, Texas, and West Coast Strike Forces; U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the Middle District of Alabama, District of Arizona, Central District of California, Southern District of California, District of Colorado, District of Connecticut, District of Delaware, Middle District of Florida, Northern District of Florida, Southern District of Florida, Northern District of Georgia, District of Hawaii, District of Idaho, Northern District of Illinois, Northern District of Iowa, Southern District of Iowa, Western District of Kentucky, Eastern District of Louisiana, Middle District of Louisiana, District of Massachusetts, Eastern District of Michigan, Southern District of Mississippi, District of Montana, District of Nebraska, District of New Hampshire, District of New Jersey, District of New Mexico, Eastern District of New York, Northern District of New York, Southern District of New York, Eastern District of North Carolina, Middle District of North Carolina, Western District of North Carolina, Northern District of Ohio, Northern District of Oklahoma, Western District of Oklahoma, District of Oregon, Eastern District of Pennsylvania, Middle District of Pennsylvania, Western District of Pennsylvania, District of Puerto Rico, District of Rhode Island, District of South Carolina, District of South Dakota, Middle District of Tennessee, Western District of Tennessee, Northern District of Texas, Southern District of Texas, Western District of Texas, District of Vermont, Eastern District of Virginia, Western District of Virginia, Northern District of West Virginia, Southern District of West Virginia, Eastern District of Wisconsin, and Western District of Wisconsin; and State Attorneys General’s Offices, through their MFCUs, in Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Utah, Vermont, Virgin Islands, Washington, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. In addition, the MFCUs for Alabama, North Carolina, South Dakota, Texas, and Virigina participated in the investigation of federal cases announced today.
Descriptions of each case involved in today’s enforcement action are available on the Department’s website here.
The Western District of Kentucky, in particular, worked with the Department’s Health Care Fraud Unit of the Fraud Division and the following law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute the cases filed during the Takedown: the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, the FBI, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Louisville Metro Police Department, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration, the Kentucky State Police, the Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area Task Force, the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services Office of Inspector General, and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment, information, or complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Canadian Man Charged by Federal Complaint for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – On June 15, 2026, a Canadian man was arrested and charged by complaint, following an Investigation by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, with distribution of child pornography and attempted online enticement of a minor.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
The complaint alleges that on or about and between May 6, 2026, to June 15, 2026, Alexander Towns, 44, used an online messaging application to communicate with an undercover officer regarding his intention of engaging in sexual acts with a purported minor child. During their communications, Towns distributed child sexual abuse materials to the undercover officer and made sexually explicit statements regarding his intentions with the purported minor. On June 15, 2026, Towns traveled from Ottawa, Canada to Nashville, Tennessee, for the purpose of engaging in sexual acts with the purported minor. Towns was arrested by FBI agents upon arrival at Nashville International Airport.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “The FBI did tremendous work in investigating and apprehending Towns. We will aggressively prosecute anyone accused of traveling to sexually abuse a minor. This is one of the most disturbing crimes that crosses my desk.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson said, "To child predators who think you are anonymously preying upon vulnerable, innocent children through online applications, know that there's a good chance the FBI is on the other end. While this one perpetrator has been caught, the FBI will continue fighting every day to protect America's children from those who seek to exploit them."
If convicted as charged in the complaint, Towns faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Yannelli is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
A complaint merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Louisville Woman Sentenced to over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Defrauding CustomersRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville woman was sentenced on June 15, 2026, to 5 years and 3 months in federal prison for eleven counts of wire fraud, one count of bankruptcy fraud, and five counts of money laundering.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Jefferson County Commonwealth’s Attorney Gerina D. Whethers, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Bobby Kuszynski of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office made the announcement.
Tracy Davenport, 51, was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $3,398,536.75 for eleven counts of wire fraud, one count of bankruptcy fraud, and five counts of money laundering. In or about and between May 2021 and December 2022, Tracy Davenport, and others working at her direction, engaged in a scheme to induce more than fifty customers into signing contracts for pool installation projects and paying large down payments up front, but did not build pools for them. Instead, Davenport used the customers’ funds for purposes other than what was agreed upon.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Tracy Davenport defrauded numerous people. In attempting to conceal her crimes, she repeatedly lied to victims all the while knowing she had stolen their money. Her crimes caused financial hardships and significant emotional distress. I am very proud of the cooperative relationship we have with the Jefferson County Commonwealth's Attorney and our local, state and federal law enforcement partners. Those relationships lead to significant successes like the Davenport conviction and sentence.”
Jefferson County Commonwealth's Attorney Gerina Whethers stated, “We hope this outcome provides a measure of closure and justice to the victims, who lost thousands of dollars and waited patiently for a resolution. The successful outcome reflects the hard work of all partner agencies. Thanks to the unwavering dedication of our detective and the exceptional work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky, this defendant will be held accountable.”
“Ms. Davenport was a ruthless business owner who intentionally defrauded customers by promising to install a new pool, stealing their down payment, and never delivering a product,” said Olivia Olson, FBI Louisville Special Agent in Charge. “Dishonest business practices have no place in our community, and the FBI will make every effort to work alongside our partners to identify and hold accountable fraudulent businesses.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation Louisville Field Office and the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigation, with assistance from the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Jefferson County Commonwealth's Attorney’s Office, and the United States Trustee’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Elver prosecuted the case.
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Bowling Green Man Sentenced to 13 1/2 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green man was sentenced on June 8, 2026, to 13 and a half years in prison for methamphetamine trafficking and firearm offenses.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.
Steven Wayne Dye, Jr., 38, was sentenced to 13 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for possessing with the intent to distribute 176.5 grams of methamphetamine, possessing a handgun as a convicted felon, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of his drug trafficking. Dye was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses:
On July 24, 2023, in Simpson Circuit Court, Dye was convicted of first-degree trafficking in a controlled substance (two counts), firearm enhanced trafficking in marijuana, receiving stolen property, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, enhanced second degree trafficking in a controlled substance, and first-degree promoting contraband.United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Just three years ago, Dye was convicted of significant drug trafficking and firearm felonies in Simpson Circuit Court. His conviction and sentence didn’t get his attention; he returned to Simpson County armed with a firearm and continued to push poison into the community. Now, because of extraordinary coordination between the ATF and KSP, Dye will be serving 13 1/2 years in federal prison. Let this be a lesson to others with a callous disregard for the safety of our communities: if you don’t change your ways, law enforcement will find you and we will prosecute you to the fullest extent of the law.”
ATF Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeremy Horbert stated, “Steven Dye disregarded the law and chose to deal in dangerous weapons and narcotics. Because of those decisions, he will now serve a lengthy sentence in federal prison. ATF proudly partnered with Kentucky State Police and the United States Attorney’s Office to ensure the community’s safety from this offender and will continue to pursue those who blatantly violate federal firearms and narcotics laws.”
Kentucky State Police Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. stated, “Strong collaborations with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the ATF and our law enforcement partners are essential to protecting Kentuckians. This defendant showed a blatant disregard for public safety, and the successful dismantling of this narcotics operation was made possible through these partnerships. I commend everyone involved for their tireless efforts to hold criminals accountable and keep our communities safe.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the Bowling Green office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Bardstown Man and Woman Sentenced to over 30 years and 10 Years in Federal Prison for Fentanyl and Cocaine Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Nelson County man and woman were sentenced to federal prison on June 10, 2026, after being convicted of multiple fentanyl and cocaine trafficking offenses following a five-day jury trial in September 2025.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office and Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
According to court documents, Neal Scott Stone, 50, was sentenced to 30 years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release. Additionally, Stone was on federal supervised release at the time of the offenses. He was sentenced to an additional 3-year term of imprisonment for violating the terms of supervised release, 18 months of which was ordered to run consecutively with the 30-year sentence, for a total combined sentence of 31.5 years. Stone was also ordered to pay a $40,000 fine.
Keely Logsdon, 42, was sentenced to 10 years, followed by 6 years of supervised release.
Between August of 2022 and June of 2023, Stone and Logsdon, both of Bardstown, conspired with each other and others to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl and a quantity of cocaine. Additionally, Stone and Logsdon, aided and abetted by each other, distributed cocaine and/or fentanyl on eight separate occasions. During the conspiracy, Stone was an over-the-road truck driver, who obtained cocaine and fentanyl from the southwest border of the United States and Mexico and transported the substances back to the Bardstown area for distribution. The jury also found that Stone had previously been convicted of the following serious drug felonies, which resulted in enhanced penalties.
On May 27, 2008, in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Stone was convicted of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of cocaine base and possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine.
On April 20, 2015, in the United States District Court for the Eastern District of Kentucky, Stone was convicted of attempt to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to distribute heroin, distribution of heroin, and possession with intent to distribute heroin.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Neal Stone has lived a life of crime, with a callous disregard for his community. Despite the opportunity to learn from three prior federal drug trafficking convictions, Stone directly transported significant quantities of fentanyl and cocaine from the Mexican border into Bardstown, Kentucky. There’s no telling how many lethal doses of deadly poison he ultimately brought into our Commonwealth. At 50 years old, this 31 1/2-year sentence in the federal penitentiary all but assures Stone will never harm Kentuckians again. I am proud of the investigative work by first class DEA Agents, and the prosecutorial effort of AUSA Frank Dahl, who are at the forefront of fighting the narcotics epidemic plaguing our state.”
“Drug traffickers like Stone and Logsdon have no regard for human life and should expect nothing less than to feel the full weight of our justice system for their crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Field Division. “I’m very proud of the work done by our special agents and all our law enforcement partners to ensure these individuals are put away for a very long time.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI and DEA investigated the case with assistance from the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force, the Nelson County Sheriff’s Office, IRS Criminal Investigation, the Kentucky State Police, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Frank Dahl and Amy Sullivan prosecuted the case with assistance from paralegal Adela Alic.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
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Paducah Man Sentenced to 17 1/2 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Paducah man was sentenced on June 3, 2026, to 17 and a half years in prison for distribution of methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Chief Brian Laird of the Paducah Police Department, and Special Agent in Charge Michael A. Davis of the DEA St. Louis Field Division made the announcement.
According to court documents, Cameron Shumpert, 35, was sentenced to 17 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for four counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
Mr. Shumpert’s convictions stem from four separate drug sales totaling 361.20 grams of pure methamphetamine. Shumpert faces three additional pending felony cases in McCracken Circuit Court for trafficking in fentanyl, cocaine, and methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Shumpert’s conviction and nearly two-decade-long sentence bring Paducah much needed relief from this career criminal. With prior convictions for a home burglary, felony assault on a corrections officer, trafficking in cocaine, possession of a firearm by a convicted felon, promoting contraband in a jail, multiple counts of violating an interpersonal protection order, fleeing police and six felony counts of unlawful transaction with a minor, Shumpert’s entire life stood in stark contrast to the peace and dignity of his community. Unquestionably, the quality of life in Paducah improved by removing this menace.”
Chief Brian Laird of the Paducah Police Department stated, “The investigation of this case and subsequent prison sentence reflects the strong partnership between the Paducah Police Department, DEA, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky in holding repeat drug traffickers accountable. Removing offenders who repeatedly choose to distribute dangerous narcotics helps make Paducah a safer place for everyone. I appreciate the dedication of our officers, investigators, and federal partners whose work helped bring this case to a successful conclusion.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the DEA St. Louis Field Division and the Paducah Police Department, with assistance from the Southern Illinois Drug Task Force and the Office of the Commonwealth Attorney for McCracken County.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth A. Hancock, branch chief of the Paducah office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced on June 2, 2026, for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
According to court documents, Daryl Horton, 24, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute it.
Horton’s conviction stems from his selling 431.1 grams of methamphetamine to a confidential informant on May 20, 2024. The methamphetamine transaction was audio and video recorded. The methamphetamine was tested at the DEA laboratory, where it was confirmed to be methamphetamine.
As a juvenile, Horton was charged with murder. His juvenile case was transferred to Jefferson Circuit Court for Horton to be prosecuted as an adult. On June 29, 2021, Horton pled guilty to reckless homicide in Jefferson Circuit Court. He was sentenced to 3 years in prison. Immediately upon being released, he committed an act of domestic violence and, subsequently, pled guilty to harassment with physical contact. Thereafter, Horton committed the offense of receiving stolen property. He continued his life of crime by engaging in significant drug trafficking for which he received this 10-year sentence.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Law enforcement is dedicated to pursuing criminals that traffic in dangerous narcotics. Hopefully, Horton’s significant sentence will serve as a deterrent to other like-minded drug dealers that the days of selling dangerous drugs without significant consequences are over. Importantly for Louisville, a dangerous criminal who has proven that he is determined to be a career criminal has been removed from society for a decade.”
Assistant Special Agent in Charge Jeremy Horbert stated, “The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) remain committed to prioritizing investigations that hold individuals accountable who pose a threat to public safety and the communities we serve. The defendant in this case is no exception. As a direct result of the partnership with the Louisville Metropolitan Police Department (LMPD) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Daryl Horton will now spend ten years in federal prison.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Louisville Metro Police Department, with assistance from the DEA Louisville Field Division.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Louisville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
Nashville Man Sentenced to over 2 Years in Federal Prison for Wire FraudRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Nashville man was sentenced on June 4, 2026, to 2 years and 2 months in federal prison for two counts of wire fraud.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
Aaron Vallett, 48, was sentenced to 2 years and 2 months in federal prison, followed by a 3-year term of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $101,630.56 for two counts of wire fraud. In or about and between July 2020 and November 2021, Aaron Vallett, as the Chief Financial Officer for a local home remodeling company, stole more than $100,000 from his employer. He used access to the company’s bank account, granted to him by virtue of his position, to devise and execute a scheme to steal the company’s funds for his own use and benefit.
Vallett was previously convicted in 2012 of mail fraud, wire fraud, and theft from an ERISA plan, for which he was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $5,492,548.77. Vallett’s current scheme began almost immediately after his release from his 2012 conviction, while he was on supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the United States Secret Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Elver prosecuted the case.
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Louisville Man and Nicholasville Woman Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Online Enticement of MinorsRead the Press Release
Jefferson County, KY –A Jefferson County man and a Nicholasville woman were sentenced on May 28, 2026, for attempted online enticement of minors.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Charles O’Loan, 40, and Amber Warner, 36, were sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by a life term of supervised release, for one count of attempted online enticement of minors. The Court ordered O’Loan and Warner to pay $6,000 in restitution to the two victims.
On or between January 11, 2024, and May 30, 2025, O’Loan and Warner communicated with each other to coordinate a plan to sexually assault Minor Victim 1 and Minor Victim 2. O’Loan and Warner exchanged messages via their cell phones, to discuss their plans to engage in illegal sexual acts with the minor victims. O’Loan and Warner used grooming tactics as well as exchanged sexually suggestive videos with each other that depicted the minor victims.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “These defendants coordinated to sexually assault two minor victims. Their conduct is disgusting. Louisville is better for 15 years while they reside in federal prison.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by FBI and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Yannelli prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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13 Illegal Aliens Arrested, 8 Indicted for Using a False Social Security Number to Obtain EmploymentRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – On May 21 and May 22, 2026, federal law enforcement agencies arrested 13 illegal aliens in the Paducah area. Of those arrests, 8 had pending criminal arrest warrants after a federal grand jury in Paducah returned indictments on May 12 and April 14, 2026, for falsely using social security numbers during their employment verification.
The illegal aliens not charged criminally will be held in ICE custody, pending removal proceedings and potential deportation.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Acting Special Agent in Charge Norman Jenkins, Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs made the announcement.
According to the indictments, between June 23, 2021, and August 15, 2025, in McCracken County, eight of the illegal aliens completed USCIS I-9 forms to apply for and receive compensation for employment, knowing that the Social Security account numbers used on the forms were not assigned to them. Form I-9, officially called the Employment Eligibility Verification form, is required by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services to verify both the identity and employment authorization of non-citizens hired for work in the United States.
The following eight were charged by indictment for using a false social security number:
- Daniel Martinez Cruz, 22, a citizen of Mexico
- Manuel Martinez Garcia, 32, a citizen of Mexico
- Joel Gomez, 36, a citizen of Guatemala
- Juan Pastor Gonzalez, 36, a citizen of Guatemala
- Julio Venture Hernandez, 29, a citizen of Mexico
- Marcelina Juarez-Vicente, 33, a citizen of Guatemala
- Ricardo Lopez, 23, a citizen of Guatemala
- Ana Osorio Louzado, 23, a citizen of Spain
On May 22, 2026, the 8 indicted defendants made initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, each defendant faces a sentence of not more than 5 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “As alleged in the indictment, these illegal aliens lied about their status to gain employment and, thereby, took jobs from American citizens. This prosecution is part of our continuing effort to support President Trump’s mission to enforce American’s immigration laws and put Americans first.”
“This investigation demonstrates our commitment to upholding the integrity of the nation’s employment and immigration systems,” said HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Dennis M. Fetting. “By uncovering and addressing the fraudulent use, our team has sent a clear message that those who attempt to circumvent federal law will be held accountable. This case underscores the importance of coordinated enforcement and collaboration in safeguarding American workplaces by combatting fraud in all forms.”
“These arrests highlight our commitment to protecting the integrity of Social Security numbers and holding accountable those who misuse the identities of American citizens for unlawful employment,” said Michelle L. Anderson, Assistant Inspector General for Audit as First Assistant for the SSA Office of the Inspector General. “We will continue working with our law enforcement partners to investigate identity fraud and protect the public from this type of criminal activity.”
“These are not victimless crimes,” said ICE Louisville acting Assistant Field Office Director, Luis Aguirre. “Using fraudulent social security numbers to take jobs from American citizens hurts our communities and American workers. I am so proud of our officers and partners who work tirelessly to enforce our immigration laws.”
This case is being investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations, and the Social Security Administration Office of Inspector General.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Armed Career Criminal Sentenced to 15 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a GunRead the Press Release
Jefferson County, KY –A Jefferson County man was sentenced today to 15 years in federal prison for one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Ricky Barker, 40, was sentenced to 15 years in federal prison, followed by a 5-year term of supervised release, for being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. On May 3, 2025, Barker fired a Taurus, Model PT111 Millennium G2, 9 mm pistol in a crowded area just after two people were shot and killed. Barker, however, is not suspected to have been involved in that shooting. Prior to this conviction, Barker was previously convicted of two robberies, two trafficking of controlled substance offenses, and two firearm offenses.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by ATF and LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Spencer McKiness and Jo E. Lawless prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. 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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Former High School Teacher Sentenced to 12 Years and 7 Months in Federal Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Jefferson County, KY –A former high school teacher from Jefferson County was sentenced today to more than 12 years in federal prison for three counts of distribution of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
Brian Hinds, 52, was sentenced to 12 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by a 15-year term of supervised release, for distributing child pornography to an undercover agent and possessing child pornography on his cellular phone. Hinds was ordered to pay $26,500 in restitution to the victims of his crimes. A review of Hinds’ phone revealed he possessed 3,326 images and 65 videos of child pornography. During an interview conducted on October 9, 2025, Hinds admitted to both sending and receiving child sexual abuse material through online messaging applications. Hinds was previously employed as a theater teacher at DuPont Manual High School’s Youth Performing Arts School. The investigation did not reveal any Manual students in any of the 3,326 images or the 65 videos of child pornography possessed by Hinds.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Distribution of child pornography is always a heinous crime, but Hinds’ actions are particularly disturbing. Outwardly, Hinds appeared to dedicate his life to educating and helping children but under the cloak of darkness and perceived anonymity he was disgustingly betraying his profession and the public’s trust by distributing disgusting child sexual abuse materials. Hinds has earned every last minute of his 151 month sentence.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney A. Spencer McKiness prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Owensboro Man Sentenced to 24 Years in Federal Prison for Multiple Business Robberies and CarjackingsRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – An Owensboro man was sentenced last week to 24 years in federal prison for an armed robbery spree that involved carjackings and robbing multiple businesses across Jefferson County and Bullitt County, Kentucky.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Chief Paul L. Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Daniel York, 47, of Owensboro, Kentucky, was sentenced to 24 years in prison, followed by 5 years supervised release, for several armed robberies and carjackings he committed over a three-day period in November 2024. On November 4, 2024, York entered Nick’s Vape & Smoke Shop on Preston Highway in Louisville, Kentucky, pointed a firearm at the employee, and took business cash as well as the employee’s vehicle. On November 5, 2024, York entered a Marathon Gas Station on Preston Highway in Louisville, Kentucky, pointed a firearm at the employee, and took business cash and the employee’s phone. On November 6, 2024, York entered O’Reilly Auto Parts in Hillview, Kentucky, pointed a firearm at several employees, and took one of the employees’ vehicles. York was arrested later that same day after leading police in a high-speed chase through Scott County, Indiana, Jefferson County, Kentucky, and finally Jennings, Indiana, while in the last victim’s stolen vehicle.
“York’s offense conduct is among the most heinous prosecuted by our Office. On three separate occasions, he walked into local businesses and held innocent employees at gunpoint. Those folks will live with that trauma for the rest of their lives. York has earned every day of his twenty-four year stay in the federal penitentiary,” stated United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner. Mr. Bumgarner further stated, “Congratulations to the men and women of LMPD’s esteemed robbery unit and the Hillview Police Department for locating York, running him down, and building a tremendously successful prosecution.”
“This sentencing makes clear that violent behavior will be met with decisive consequences,” said LMPD Chief Paul L. Humphrey. “This dangerous criminal terrorized people who were simply trying to do their jobs, and we have no place for that in our community. I’m proud of the relentless work of our officers and partner agencies who stopped him before he harmed more people.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Louisville Metro Police Department’s Robbery Unit and Hillview Police Department, with assistance from the Department of Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Lantz prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Houston Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Charge for Burglarizing ATM in Hardin CountyRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Houston, Texas, man pled guilty yesterday to burglarizing a Hardin County bank’s ATM and stealing over $48,000.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Jeremy Thompson of the Elizabethtown Police Department made the announcement.
Jesse Kayembe, 26, of Houston, Texas, and others working with him, stole a truck in Elizabethtown, Kentucky. Kayembe drove the stolen truck to the WesBanco Bank in Elizabethtown, hooked it to the ATM, and drove forward, ripping open the ATM door and vault. Kayembe and another individual took the cash drawers from the ATM, resulting in a loss to the bank of over $48,000.
Kayembe pled guilty to one count of bank larceny. He is scheduled to be sentenced on September 22, 2026, at 1:30 p.m. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Additionally, Kayembe will be required to pay restitution.
United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner stated, “Across the country banks have unfortunately been the victims of numerous incidents where criminals ripped open ATMs and stole cash. These crimes cause significant economic harm and disruption to banks and their customers. Our office will simply not stand for this brazen criminality. I commend our law enforcement partners for catching this criminal.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson said, "Financial institutions are a vital part of the American way of life. When reckless criminals steal from banks to feed their personal greed, it not only causes disruption and damage to the business, but also puts bank customers and innocent bystanders in harm’s way. The FBI will continue to work alongside our law enforcement partners every day to keep our communities safe."
Elizabethtown Police Chief Jeremy Thompson stated, “This conviction and sentencing is an incredible example of collaboration between local and federal law enforcement. Intelligence led policing allowed us to know the suspects were in our area committing crimes. This should send a message to criminals everywhere; crime will not be tolerated in the Commonwealth of Kentucky.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the FBI Louisville Field Office and the Elizabethtown Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Lantz is prosecuting the case.
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Louisville Man Charged by Federal Complaint for Fentanyl Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Last week, a Louisville man was arrested and charged by complaint with possession with the intent to distribute over 400 grams of fentanyl, possession of firearms as a convicted felon, and possessing firearms in furtherance of drug trafficking.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
The complaint alleges that in April 2026, law enforcement identified Darrell Malone, 35, as a multi-kilogram quantity fentanyl drug trafficker in the Louisville area and began an investigation into Malone’s drug trafficking operation. On or about May 7, 2026, members of the DEA executed a federal search warrant at Malone’s residence in Louisville. During the execution of the search warrant, DEA seized 4 bricks of suspected powdered fentanyl, additional bags of suspected fentanyl, a baggie of suspected MDMA (ecstasy) tablets, a hydraulic kilo press, and United States currency. DEA also seized three firearms, including a loaded Smith and Wesson 9-millimeter pistol, a loaded Glock 9-millimeter pistol, and a stolen Springfield XD 9-millimeter pistol. At the time he allegedly possessed the firearms, Malone was prohibited from possessing a firearm based on a prior federal conviction for conspiring to distribute controlled substances.
As a result of the seizures, Malone was charged by criminal complaint with one count of possession with the intent to distribute 400 grams or more of a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of fentanyl, one count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking.
United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner stated, “President Trump has designated fentanyl as a weapon of mass destruction based upon its lethality and the tragic loss of so many American lives from overdose deaths. DEA’s seizure of three million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl undoubtedly saved the lives of Louisvillians. I want to commend DEA for this fentanyl seizure. The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to assist law enforcement in investigating fentanyl trafficking and we will aggressively prosecute fentanyl trafficking cases.”
“Mr. Malone, a career criminal, is behind bars today because of the cooperation and partnerships among law enforcement at every level… federal, state, and local, all working together to make Louisville a safer city,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Field Division. “The amount of fentanyl that we took from his home equates to more than three million potentially lethal doses that never made it to the street.
If convicted as charged in the complaint, Malone faces a combined mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of Life. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the DEA, FBI, and LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Nashville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
A complaint merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Federal Prison for Years-Long Drug Money Laundering Conspiracy and Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Jefferson County, Kentucky, man was sentenced last week to 8 years in federal prison for an extensive drug money laundering conspiracy, conducting transactions with drug proceeds, and obstructing a federal investigation and asset forfeiture proceeding.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation made the announcement.
According to court documents, Joseph E. Lanham, 43, of Louisville, was sentenced to 8 years in prison, followed by 3 years supervised, for engaging in a money laundering conspiracy to conceal the proceeds of his own drug trafficking activity from April 2016 to May 2023 and for obstruction of justice. During the indictment period, Lanham conspired with others to hide his drug proceeds and acquired real estate, vehicles, and a luxury speedboat with funds generated through drug trafficking. Court documents also show that Lanham submitted falsified documents to federal authorities in September 2023 in order to obstruct a federal criminal investigation and asset forfeiture proceedings. Lanham has also been ordered to pay a $40,000 fine and several houses acquired through his criminal conduct are subject to asset forfeiture.
United States Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner said, “This significant sentence is a testament to the IRS-Criminal Investigation’s substantial role in combating drug trafficking across the Western District of Kentucky. Through a significant financial investigation, and working hand-in-hand with AUSAs Corinne Keel and Erin McKenzie to develop their case, IRS-CI compiled a mountain of evidence proving that Joseph Lanham laundered money he acquired from drug trafficking over more than 7 years and lied to the government about his conduct in an effort to thwart justice. He will now serve 8 years in federal prison for his conduct, and he will have to do without the items of luxury he purchased using illicit drug proceeds, all of which were forfeited as a part of his sentence.”
Assistant United States Attorney Corinne Keel said, “This result comes from the years-long effort of a hardworking team and is an excellent example of justice through collaboration between local and federal law enforcement.”
“The sentencing of Joseph Lanham for leading the money laundering operation that tried to hide its roots in real estate and splashy luxury items is a victory for the American public and a defeat to drug traffickers everywhere. The special agents of IRS Criminal Investigation continue in their mission to disrupt the flow of ill-gotten gains that is the life-blood for these criminals,” said Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, Detroit Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation. “We will continue to be relentless in our mission to dismantle these drug trafficking organizations and bring the criminals who run them to justice.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Louisville Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office, with assistance from the Jeffersontown Police Department and the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Corinne E. Keel and Erin G. McKenzie prosecuted the case.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Nashville comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ATF, and IRS, with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky.
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Previously Convicted Killer Sentenced to over 30 Years in Federal Prison for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Jefferson County, Kentucky, man was sentenced last week to 31 years and 6 months in federal prison for multiple drug and firearm offenses.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul l. Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from January 1, 2021, through August 29, 2023, Thomas Gunter, conspired with other individuals to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and over 400 grams of fentanyl. Gunter was further convicted of distributing over 50 grams of methamphetamine on ten dates from March through June of 2023; possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime on June 22, 2023; possessing with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine on August 29, 2023; and possessing a firearm with the knowledge that he was prohibited from doing so due having been previously convicted of felonies on three occasions. The jury also found that Gunter had previously been convicted of the following serious violent felony.
On December 10, 2009, in Floyd County Superior Court, New Albany, Indiana, Gunter was convicted of voluntary manslaughter.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Gunter is among the most dangerous criminals in the Louisville metropolitan area. After serving time for a previous homicide, he returned to the streets of Louisville and operated a significant drug trafficking ring, pushing fentanyl and methamphetamine onto our streets. He was often armed with a handgun while running his illicit business. Due to exceptional investigative work by the FBI and LMPD, our Office secured a multi-count conviction against Gunter last summer after a weeklong trial. Just days ago, our Office advocated for the maximum sentence and convinced the Court to send Gunter away for more than three decades. Louisville is safer because this convicted killer is no longer a part of our community.”
Special Agent Olivia Olson stated, “The sentencing of Mr. Gunter ensures that one of Louisville’s most dangerous criminals is removed from our streets for decades to come. He needlessly put innocent lives at risk by trafficking large amounts of narcotics and possessing firearms as a previously convicted felon. This case highlights the FBI’s commitment to combatting violent criminals and gangs and restoring safety to our communities.”
Chief Paul L. Humphrey stated, “Last week’s sentencing demonstrates the power of our law enforcement partnerships and shows that we have zero tolerance for violent and dangerous criminals. Anyone who brings drugs into our community should be clear about the consequences: We will find you and we will hold you accountable for your actions.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI and LMPD investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorneys Josh Porter and Frank Dahl are prosecuting the case with assistance from paralegal Adela Alic.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative. The HSTF is a United States government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, transnational gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) worldwide. This initiative identifies TCOs engaged in a wide range of criminal schemes that violate federal law, while dismantling cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks that fuel violence and instability that threatens the safety and security of the United States and its global partners. It also places a particular emphasis on criminal offenses involving children and ensures the use of all available law enforcement tools to prosecute offenders and/or facilitate the removal of criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Nashville is comprised of agents and officers from FBI, HIS, DEA, ATF and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
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Pharmacist Sentenced to 30 months in Prison for Role in $2M Health Care Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – Michael Shawn Boaz, 47, of Clinton, was sentenced this week to 30 months in prison and 3 years supervised release for one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and 13 counts of fraudulent prescriptions and ordered to pay restitution of $1,806,212.90.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Marie Maguire of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, Office of Criminal Investigations, Metro Washington Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Kelly Blackmon of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General made the announcement.
On November 3, 2025, Boaz entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to commit health care fraud and fraudulent prescriptions. According to court documents, while working as licensed pharmacists, Boaz and his co-conspirator fraudulently billed health care benefit programs for customers at two pharmacies in Kentucky. From 2017 through 2021, they caused $2,185,739.52 in losses to health care benefit providers by submitting claims for fraudulent and unauthorized prescriptions. Boaz added boutique vitamins to customer prescription orders. He told customers that the vitamins were “free.” However, Boaz billed the customers’ health care providers between $1,000 and $6,000 for each bottle of vitamins. Boaz also submitted claims for fraudulent and unauthorized prescriptions for the antihistamine Carbinoxamine Maleate. He purchased Carbinoxamine Maleate from a wholesaler for $605 per prescription and billed health care providers between $2,000 and $16,000 for each fraudulent prescription.
On August 7, 2025, co-conspirator Christopher Clayton Augustus, 42, of Paducah, entered a guilty plea to conspiracy to commit health care fraud, fraudulent prescriptions, and aggravated identity theft. He is awaiting sentencing.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Fraudsters like Boaz that steal from health care benefit programs negatively impact everyone’s health care costs. Health care fraud is a top priority of our office. We will continue to aggressively investigate and prosecute those that defraud our health care programs. It is my fervent hope that Boaz’s prison sentence serves a strong deterrent to other fraudsters in the Western District of Kentucky to stop their fraud now because we will find you and prosecute you.”
This case was investigated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, U.S. Department of Labor, Kentucky Attorney General’s Office of Medicaid Fraud and Abuse Control, and the Kentucky Board of Pharmacy.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office prosecuted the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
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Defendant Pleads Guilty and Agrees to 20-Year Sentence for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – On April 20, 2026, Antonio D. Jackson, pleaded guilty to a four-count federal superseding indictment charging him with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distributing methamphetamine with a co-defendant, Ivy S. Daniels. Jackson was scheduled for a jury trial that day but instead chose to plead guilty and accept a 20-year prison sentence.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge Colin W. Jackson of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division, Sheriff Jon Hayden of the Graves County Sheriff’s Office, and Sheriff Ryan Norman of the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to court documents, federal and state partners began investigating Antonio D. Jackson, 39, of Paducah, Kentucky and others associated with him in March of 2024. Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Patrol investigators intercepted a package containing approximately 4 kilograms of methamphetamine in Louisville, Kentucky, addressed to a Mayfield, Kentucky, residence associated with Jackson. U.S. Postal Service employees also verified other shipments being made to the same address during the same time frame. On April 14, 2024, Jackson supplied co-defendant Ivy S. Daniels with approximately 210 grams of methamphetamine that was sold to investigators. Similarly, on April 16, 2024, Jackson supplied Daniels with 211 grams of methamphetamine that was then sold to investigators. Just after this sale, investigators arrested Jackson while he possessed approximately 106 grams of methamphetamine.
Sentencing is set for July 10, 2026. A federal district court judge will decide prior to sentencing whether to accept the parties’ plea agreement of a 20-year sentence. There is no parole in the federal system.
The DEA, HSI, USPIS, Graves County Sheriff’s Office, McCracken County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Seth Hancock of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office prosecuted the case with assistance from paralegal Cristy Crockett.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Five Arrested in Kentucky and Colorado for Scheme to Fraudulently Obtain $1.6 Million in COVID-19 Relief FundsRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Five people were arrested today in Kentucky, Indiana, and Colorado on federal charges for their role in a scheme to fraudulently obtain approximately $1.6 million in COVID-19 relief funds.
Colin McDonald, Assistant Attorney General for the National Fraud Enforcement Division, U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Kelly Moening of the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration (TIGTA) Great Lakes Field Division made the announcement.
On April 8, 20216, a federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment, which charges two individuals—Kaelynn Greene, 31, and Camden Newton, 32—with wire fraud, conspiracy to commit wire fraud, aggravated identity theft, and money laundering, all related to fraudulently obtaining COVID-19 financial assistance program funds. The indictment also charges Betty Walker a/k/a Betty Bailey, 39, Breanna Patterson, 32, and Jordan Greene, 34, with conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
According to the indictment, for over two years, Kaelynn Greene and Camden Newton engaged in a scheme to fraudulently obtain Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDL) and Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) Loans through fraudulent statements on applications, either in their own names, through entities they created, or through stolen identities. Greene also conspired with Betty Walker, Breanna Patterson, and Jordan Greene, and others to recruit borrowers who were ineligible for PPP loans to submit fraudulent PPP loan applications on their behalf. In the applications, they falsely claimed the borrowers operated businesses that did not exist and that would have otherwise qualified them for loans, or over inflated minimal business activity. To bolster their applications, the defendants created fake tax forms that were also submitted as part of the loan process. As a result, Greene and others obtained PPP loan proceeds to which the borrowers were not entitled. Greene was further compensated by receiving kickbacks from the borrowers.
In total, the defendants combined caused more than 20 EIDL applications and more than 50 PPP applications to be filed on behalf of ineligible borrowers. The fraudulent applications resulted in disbursement of more than $850,000 in fraudulently obtained federal funds and attempts to obtain an additional more than $750,000 in such loan proceeds that were declined.
As the indictment alleges, these fraudulent schemes took advantage of federally funded programs created through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES) for the purpose of assisting individuals and small businesses who struggled financially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Those funds were generally administered by the Small Business Administration through two programs. First, the SBA provided PPP loans designed to provide a direct incentive for small businesses who were in operation on February 15, 2020, to keep their workers on the payroll. PPP loan proceeds were required to be used by the business on certain permissible expenses. Interest and principal on PPP loans could be entirely forgiven if the business spent the loan proceeds on the allowable expenses within a designated period and used a certain percentage of the PPP loan proceeds on payroll expenses.
Second, the SBA provided Economic Injury Disaster Loans (EIDLs) to eligible small businesses, including sole proprietorships and independent contractors, experiencing substantial financial disruptions due to the COVID-19 pandemic to allow them to meet financial obligations and operating expenses that could otherwise have been met had the disaster not occurred. EIDL applications were submitted directly to the SBA via the SBA’s on-line application website, and the applications were processed and the loans funded for qualifying applicants directly by the SBA.
“As part of the Department of Justice’s new National Fraud Enforcement Division, this indictment begins the process of holding five fraudsters accountable for their theft of hard-earned taxpayer dollars. These defendants allegedly took advantage of two federally funded programs designed to carry our country and its small businesses through unprecedented economic uncertainty by lying, cheating, and stealing. Their conduct will not be tolerated, and they will be aggressively prosecuted by this Office,” said U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner.
Kaelynn Greene, Breanna Patterson, and Betty Walker made their initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky yesterday. Jordan Greene and Cameron Newton’s initial appearance has not yet been scheduled by the Court.
This case is being investigated by TIGTA.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicole Elver is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Two Charged by Federal Complaint for Stealing Explosive Material and Illegally Possessing Explosive Material and a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Two Louisville individuals were arrested yesterday and charged by complaint today with stealing explosive material, possession of explosive material by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
The complaint alleges that on or about March 31, 2025, James Culver, 44, and Lasierra Chesher, 39, stole explosive materials. Investigators determined the theft to be approximately 438 pounds of the following explosives: 12 sticks 2.5”x16” Orica Power Pro (DSC 14JA26J1); 89 sticks Orica Senatel Ultrex (DSC 18DE25V4); and 6 fifty-pound bags of Orica Amex-WR ANFO, which had moved in interstate commerce. Based on a tip, law enforcement was able to recover all the stolen explosives.
“The ATF and LMPD were notified on April 1 that a significant amount of explosives had been stolen from a construction site off Bardstown Road,” said United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner. “ATF agents and LMPD officers immediately joined forces to locate the explosive materials and identify a suspect, seeking the help of the Louisville community. In less than 24 hours, and because of exceptional investigative efforts, ATF and LMPD located and safely recovered all stolen explosive materials and arrested the alleged culprits.”
According to the complaint, Culver and Chesher drove to a construction site in Louisville. Culver broke the locks enabling them to obtain the explosives. Upon gaining entry, Culver and Chesher began stealing the explosives. They stored the explosives at another person’s residence and returned home. At their residence, they had a box full of blasting caps. When law enforcement approached Culver and Chesher, Culver fled. Both were apprehended. Subsequently, Culver admitted to his involvement in the theft of explosives.
ATF executed a search warrant at Culver and Chesher’s residence. ATF recovered a .22 caliber rifle along with various caliber ammunition. They also recovered a shockwave exploding target and multiple explosive labels and instructional materials.
Along with the theft of explosive material charge, Culver is also charged with possession of explosive material and possession of a firearm by prohibited person. Culver is prohibited from possessing explosive material and a firearm because he has previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses, to include receiving stolen property $10,000 or more, burglary in the third degree, and theft by unlawful taking.
Along with the theft of explosive material charge, Chesher is further charged with possession of explosive material by a prohibited person. She was prohibited from possessing explosive materials because she has previously been convicted of multiple felony offenses, including receiving stolen property under $10,000, trafficking in methamphetamine, and convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
If convicted, Culver faces a maximum sentence of 35 years in prison. Chesher faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
U.S. Attorney Bumgarner thanked the law enforcement partners and prosecutors for their extraordinary work. “This doesn’t happen without strong leadership, strong partnerships, and, most importantly, dedicated and well-trained agents, officers and prosecutors. Job well done.”
“The possession and use of explosives are strictly regulated due to the significant risks they pose,” said ATF Special John Nokes. “This theft created a serious and unnecessary danger to the public. As a result, the ATF and LMPD made this investigation a top priority, working in close coordination to ensure the safe recovery of all explosive materials and the swift apprehension of those responsible.”
“This successful recovery of the stolen explosives and subsequent arrests underscores the strength of coordinated law enforcement and the professionalism of our officers,” said LMPD Chief Paul Humphrey. “LMPD’s Bomb Squad, Homeland Security Unit, SWAT Team, Fugitive Unit, Drone Unit, and Sixth Division Patrol worked seamlessly alongside our ATF partners to help recover a significant amount of stolen explosives and protect our community. I’m extremely proud of the dedication and expertise these units demonstrated. Our continued partnership with the ATF—both the Louisville and Lexington offices—remains vital to keeping our city and region safe.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF and LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Lantz of the United States Attorney’s Office Louisville Branch is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
A complaint merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Local Drug Trafficking Organization Dismantled by Joint Federal and State InvestigationRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – On February 11, 2026, a federal Grand Jury in Paducah returned an Indictment charging four people with conspiring to distribute controlled substances in McCracken County.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Chief Brian Laird of the Paducah Police Department, Sheriff Ryan Norman of the McCracken County Sheriff’s Office, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division, Chief Jason Newby of the Hopkinsville Police Department, Chief Steve Bryan of the Madisonville Police Department, Sheriff Nicky Knight of the Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, and Nathan Kent of the Mayfield Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, federal and state partners have been investigating Demarlo Henderson, 41, of Paducah, Kentucky, and his drug trafficking organization (DTO), including Lafaeabeian Stingley, 54, of Hickory, Kentucky, and others for the past several months. Henderson has two prior federal convictions for trafficking in cocaine and is currently on federal supervision in the Western District of Kentucky. Between December 12, 2024, and January 18, 2026, the group obtained and distributed large amounts of cocaine in and around McCracken County. On January 8, 2026, federal search warrants were executed at numerous residences and locations in McCracken and Graves Counties. The search warrants resulted in the seizure of large amounts of cocaine, methamphetamine, and U.S. currency. On January 17, 2026, agents intercepted 2 kilograms of cocaine destined for the DTO. The investigation revealed that the cocaine had been ordered by the DTO from a source, identified as Toddriquez Bradley, 38, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Bradley has a prior federal conviction for trafficking in cocaine and is currently on federal supervision in the Middle District of Louisiana. On that date, Bradley sent a runner, Joseph K. Baker, 38, of Baton Rouge, Louisiana to deliver the drugs to the DTO. Baker was arrested when he arrived in Paducah with 2 kilograms of cocaine. Bradley was subsequently arrested in Baton Rouge, Louisiana.
Henderson was charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, three counts of distribution of cocaine, and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Stingley was charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine, and one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine. Baker and Bradley were each charged with one count of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute cocaine and one count of possession with the intent to distribute cocaine. If convicted, Henderson faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years in prison and up to life; Stingley faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life; Baker faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and up to life; and Bradley faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and up to life.
“Because of exceptional law enforcement work, large quantities of poison were seized before they hit the streets of Paducah,” said U.S. Attorney Kyle Bumgarner. “Now, our office will vigorously prosecute these defendants to finish the strong work started by investigators. Justice will be served.”
“This case highlights the tenacity of DEA agents and our law enforcement partners, who worked tirelessly for more than a year to shut down a source of supply for drugs flowing into Western Kentucky,” said Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott, head of DEA’s Louisville Field Division. “Mr. Henderson and his associates should expect to experience the full weight of our justice system for their efforts to poison our communities with illicit drugs.”
“The safety of our citizens is a top priority and this investigation demonstrates our commitment to the Paducah community,” said Paducah Police Chief Brian Laird. “Our partnership with the DEA, the U.S. Attorney's Office, and regional agencies is essential to these efforts. This collaboration stopped a significant amount of drugs from entering our community and is holding repeat offenders fully accountable for their actions.”
McCracken County Sheriff Ryan Norman stated, “When agencies come together to protect the public, good outcomes happen. This is a direct result of law enforcement officers being solely concerned with protecting our residents, our children, from these dangerous drugs. We have great cooperation in our area and it shows in the results.”
The defendants will make their initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the Western District of Kentucky at a later date. A federal district court judge will determine any sentences after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty with assistance from the Paducah Police Department, McCracken County Sheriff’s Office, Kentucky State Police, United States Postal Inspectors Service, Hopkinsville Police Department, Madisonville Police Department, Calloway County Sheriff’s Office, and Mayfield Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting this case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Pennsylvania Man Sentenced to 20 years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Pennsylvania man was sentenced on March 18, 2026, for transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and online enticement of a minor.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Acting Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
Bailey Michael Stouter, 23, was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity and online enticement of a minor. The Court ordered Stouter to pay $3,000 in restitution to the victim.
Stouter used a social media application to meet a 14-year-old girl. He arranged to pick the girl up from her home in Bullitt County, Kentucky, to drive her to Pennsylvania for a sexual encounter. A missing person report was issued for the child. A few days later, Stouter was located with the young girl in Fayetteville, Pennsylvania.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Online predators are a plague. They manipulate, exploit and abuse our children. Law enforcement will leave no stone unturned in searching for these predators. The United States Attorney’s Office will aggressively prosecute these deviants! Stouter’s deviance cost him 20 years in federal prison and his entire life on supervised release after he completes his 20-year sentence.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI with assistance from the Bullitt County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Yannelli prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Final Defendant in Bowling Green Methamphetamine Conspiracy Sentenced to 18 1/2 Years in PrisonRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – On March 17, 2026, Shantaja S. Hutchins, the final defendant in a six-person methamphetamine conspiracy centered in Bowling Green, Kentucky, was sentenced to serve 18 1/2 years in federal prison.
First Assistant United States Attorney Brian Butler of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Director Tommy M. Loving of the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force made the announcement.
According to court records, Shantaja S. Hutchins, 49, invested in large quantities of methamphetamine which Leroy B. Riggsbee, 40, obtained. This conspiracy involved the transportation of 77 pounds of methamphetamine from the Atlanta, GA area to Bowling Green, KY. The 77 pounds of methamphetamine was seized following the traffic stop of a vehicle occupied by Joseph A. Raby, 43, and Brandon T. Trent, 27, on January 4, 2023. Hutchins was in a separate car following Trent and Raby back from Georgia.
Hutchins was sentenced on March 17, 2026, to serve 18 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, distribution of methamphetamine, and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
The other members of the conspiracy were previously sentenced for their roles in connection with this drug conspiracy. Riggsbee, a lead defendant with Hutchins, was sentenced on November 17, 2025, to serve 17 1/2 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Jeffery W. Glass, 53, was sentenced on February 4, 2025, to serve 4 3/4 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for his role as a co-conspirator. Tyler P. Houchens, 31, was sentenced on November 5, 2024, to serve 10 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for his role as a co-conspirator. Houchens fled police during this conspiracy and was found to possess for resale 10 lbs. of methamphetamine. Raby was sentenced on November 7, 2023, to serve 9 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for his role as a co-conspirator. Trent was sentenced on May 2, 2024, to serve 2 years and 1 month in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for his role as a co-conspirator. Antoine J. Bass, 43, was charged with selling methamphetamine on two occasions. On November 16, 2023, he was sentenced to serve 6 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for his role as a street level drug dealer.
First Assistant United States Attorney Brian Butler stated, “The Bowling Green/Warren County AHIDTA Drug Task Force and ATF dismantled a significant drug trafficking conspiracy that intended to distribute at least 77 lbs. of methamphetamine in and around the Bowling Green area. Bowling Green is a model for cooperation between federal and state law enforcement and federal and state prosecutor’s offices. These convictions and sentences continue to demonstrate that Bowling Green is one of the worst places in America for drug traffickers to peddle their narcotics.”
ATF Special Agent in Charge John Nokes said, “This case is another successful example of law enforcement working together at all levels to make our community safer. ATF and the Bowling Green Warren County Drug Task Force joined forces to remove a dangerous drug trafficker and his poison from Central Kentucky. As a direct result of this partnership and aggressive prosecution by our US Attorney’s Office, Shantaja Hutchins will now spend nearly 20 years in federal prison.”
Bowling Green/Warren County AHIDTA Drug Task Force Director Tommy M. Loving stated, “This case is another example of the strong partnerships and collaboration between state, local, and federal law enforcement agencies. Through this joint effort with the ATF, investigators made what we believe to be a record seizure in a single case—77 pounds of methamphetamine that was being transported back into Warren County. Today’s final sentencing ensures that the primary individuals responsible for this operation will no longer be able to distribute their poison in South Central Kentucky. We commend the United States Attorney’s Office for the Western District of Kentucky for its continued dedication to prosecuting major drug traffickers and helping keep our communities safe.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 15 years for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville, Kentucky man was sentenced this week to 15 years in federal prison for trafficking in firearms, distribution of methamphetamine, and illegal possession of firearms.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Detroit Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Sukhjit Bains, 52, was sentenced to 15 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, after pleading guilty to two counts of trafficking in firearms, two counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, one count of possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, two counts of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and one count of illegal possession of a machine gun, specifically, a 3D-printed Glock type machine gun conversion device. A Glock switch device allows a semi-automatic handgun to function as an automatic and is defined as a machinegun under federal law.
On November 20, 2024, Bains sold 9 firearms and approximately 2 ounces of methamphetamine to a confidential law enforcement source. On December 12, 2024, Bains sold 6 firearms and approximately to 2 pounds of methamphetamine to a confidential law enforcement source. On January 10, 2025, a search warrant was executed on Bains’ former business, “The Liquor Palace” at 5601 Preston Highway in Louisville. After searching the business and arresting Bains, law enforcement found an additional 31 firearms and smaller amounts of methamphetamine. All together, Bains was held responsible for illegally trafficking 99 firearms. Bains was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On November 28, 2018, in the United States District Court, Western District of Kentucky, Bains was convicted of possession of a firearm and ammunition by a convicted felon, and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
On March 28, 2017, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Bains was convicted of wanton endangerment in the first degree, tampering with physical evidence, and two counts of possession of a controlled substance in the first degree-methamphetamine.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF, DEA, IRS-CI and LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Porter prosecuted the case with assistance of paralegal specialist Adela Alic.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative. The HSTF is a United States government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, transnational gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) worldwide. This initiative identifies TCOs engaged in a wide range of criminal schemes that violate federal law, while dismantling cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks that fuel violence and instability that threatens the safety and security of the United States and its global partners. It also places a particular emphasis on criminal offenses involving children and ensures the use of all available law enforcement tools to prosecute offenders and/or facilitate the removal of criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Nashville is comprised of agents and officers from ATF, LMPD, DEA. IRS-CI, HSI, and FBI and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
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Louisville Man Faces at Least 35 Years in Prison Following Conviction at Trial on 9 Federal Child Exploitation ChargesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was found guilty by a federal jury of nine federal child exploitation charges last week.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul L. Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
Quinnton Dawson, 35, of Louisville, used an electronic storage device to record himself engaging in sexual acts with a four-year-old child after having been previously convicted in Jefferson Circuit Court of possessing and distributing child pornography. Dawson also used his email account to seek out and trade child sexual abuse materials.
Dawson committed these horrific crimes after being granted shock probation in Jefferson Circuit Court for his prior offenses of possessing and distributing child pornography pursuant to case number 20-CR-2017. Dawson has also been convicted of robbery in the second degree in Jefferson Circuit Court pursuant to case number 22-CR-2095.
On Thursday March 5, 2026, Dawson was found guilty of all nine counts he was charged with at the conclusion of a weeklong jury trial in Louisville, Kentucky. He is scheduled to be sentenced on June 11, 2026.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “It is hard to quantify the depravity it takes for a man to film himself engaging in sex acts with a four-year-old child. It truly demonstrates that evil is among us. My heart goes out to this innocent little girl and her family. I want to commend the prosecutors and law enforcement officers that diligently worked to ensure this monster was convicted and removed from Louisville for decades.”
Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, “A jury of his peers confirmed what the FBI and our investigative partners already know to be true. Quinnton Dawson is a multiple time sex offender who not only committed horrific offenses against a young, innocent girl, but then sought to profit off of her exploitation. This guilty verdict will ensure Dawson is where he belongs—behind bars with zero access to vulnerable children.”
Chief Paul L. Humphrey stated, “Crimes involving the exploitation of children are among the most disturbing cases we investigate. We appreciate the hard work of the detectives who tirelessly built the case against this dangerous offender. This conviction shows what is possible when local and federal partners work together. We will continue pursuing child predators and doing everything we can to keep them behind bars for as long as possible.”
Dawson faces a minimum sentence of 35 years in prison and a maximum sentence of 340 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Danielle M. Yannelli and Stephanie Zimdahl prosecuted the case with the assistance of paralegal Carissa Moss.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Bowling Green Man Sentenced to 5 Years in Federal Prison followed by 20 Years of Supervised Release for Using AI to Create Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green man was sentenced on March 9, 2026, for using artificial intelligence (AI) to produce over 1,300 images of child sexual abuse material.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Warren County Commonwealth’s Attorney Kori Beck Bumgarner, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Colin W. Jackson of the Homeland Security Investigations Nashville made the announcement.
Ray Gordon, 37, was sentenced to 5 years in federal prison, followed by a 20-year term of supervised release, for one count of producing obscene visual representations of child abuse and one count of possessing obscene visual representations of child abuse.
For more than a year, Gordon used an AI image generator to create detailed and obscene images of minor children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. In many instances, the images Gordon created depicted young toddlers and preteen girls engaged in sexual activity with adults and in pain. In December 2023, Gordon was found in possession of over 1,300 unique images of child sexual abuse material that he had created.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Unfortunately, child predators are using AI to produce child sexual abuse material. It is tragic how deviants continually adapt new technology to further their twisted and evil fetishes. Our office will continue to work with law enforcement to ensure that these deviants are stopped and sent to federal prison.”
Warren County Commonwealth’s Attorney Kori Beck Bumgarner stated, “The Office of the Commonwealth’s Attorney is pleased with the outcome in this case. Justice was served, and this offender has been held accountable for his actions. The twenty-year period of supervision will provide an important safeguard for our community, helping to protect children and ensure continued oversight. Measures like this are valuable tools that help keep our communities safe.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by HSI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Stephanie M. Zimdahl prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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Bowling Green Man Sentenced to 27 Years and 6 Months in Federal Prison for Online Enticement of MinorsRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A Bowling Green man was sentenced on March 10, 2026, for online coercion and enticement of minors, sexual exploitation of a child, receipt of child pornography, cyberstalking and tampering with a witness.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
James Clark, 40, was sentenced to 27 and a half years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for one count of sexual exploitation of children, one count of receipt of child pornography, five counts of online enticement of a minor, one count of cyberstalking and one count of tampering with a witness.
For a span of three years, Clark used social media applications to persuade, induce, entice and coerce five young girls to send him sexually explicit images and videos in exchange for gifts and money. Clark also used threats to coerce young girls to send him sexually explicit images.
United States Attorney Kyle Bumgarner stated, “Clark’s conduct was pure evil. A 40-year-old man preying on young girls is hard to comprehend and simply reprehensible. Because of law enforcement’s strong work, Clark will not see the light of day for nearly three decades and Bowling Green is better off because of it!”
Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson stated, “For years, Clark terrorized young girls. He not only solicited sexually explicit images from them for his own personal gain, but he also levied threats against them if they didn’t follow through with his demands. His sentence reflects the depravity of his actions, and we hope it serves as a warning to current sex offenders. We will find you and justice will be served.”
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Danielle M. Yannelli prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc. For more information about internet safety education, please visit www.usdoj.gov/psc and click on the tab “resources.”
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5 Indicted by Federal Grand Jury in Bowling Green for a Drug Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an Indictment on February 11, 2026, charging three men and two women with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine, and other drug trafficking related offenses.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge John Nokes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Director Tommy Loving of the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force made the announcement.
The indictment alleges that as early as April 1, 2025 and continuing to on or about October 16, 2025, Davon M. Grandberry, 30, Jarru R. Cavitt, 30, Ashley M. Huff, 36, O’Shay D. Everett, 33, and Shelby D. Puckett, 28, conspired and agreed together to knowingly and intentionally possess with the intent to distribute, and distributed, five-hundred (500) grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture, and five-hundred (500) grams or more of cocaine. Each defendant was then charged with additional crimes they allegedly committed as part of the conspiracy. Specifically:
Grandberry is charged with distributing a methamphetamine mixture on April 18 and May 2, 2025. Grandberry is also charged with distributing 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine on August 21, 2025.
Cavitt and Grandberry are charged jointly with distributing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on August 27 and September 2, 2025.
Cavitt and Everett are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute cocaine on September 22, 2025.
Cavitt and Huff are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and 500 grams or more of cocaine on September 22, 2025.
Cavitt and Puckett are charged jointly with possessing with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on September 24, 2025.
Altogether, over 50 pounds of methamphetamine, 2 kilograms of cocaine, and approximately $20,000 in cash were seized as part of this investigation. These crimes took place in Warren, Hart, and Butler Counties.
Grandberry, Cavitt, and Huff, have all been arraigned before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. Grandberry and Cavitt were detained pending further proceedings. Huff was released on special conditions. Everett and Puckett will make their appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.
If convicted, the defendants face a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and the Bowling Green/Warren County Appalachia High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (AHIDTA) Drug Task Force, with assistance from the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark J. Yurchisin II of the United States Attorney’s Office Bowling Green Branch is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Final Defendant Sentenced to Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking OperationRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – The last of four defendants charged in a methamphetamine trafficking conspiracy was sentenced last week to 10 months in federal prison. Three other defendants were sentenced to federal prison previously.
U.S. Attorney Kyle G. Bumgarner of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Olivia Olson of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
On March 5, 2026, Geramy Frederick, 45, of Louisville, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances, one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
On January 9, 2026, Scott Sabol, 61, of Louisville, was sentenced to 5 years and 10 months in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
On December 18, 2025, Michael Vaden, 37, of Louisville, was sentenced to 6 years and 7 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substances and three counts of distribution of methamphetamine.
On October 15, 2025, Jessica Stout, 45, of Louisville, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute controlled substance, one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and one count of distribution of methamphetamine.
According to Court documents, Frederick, Sabol, Vaden, and Stout, conspired with each other and others to possess with the intent to distribute and distributed large quantities of methamphetamine between February and March of 2024 in and around Louisville. Frederick distributed half-pound quantities of methamphetamine to another in February, March, and April of 2024. He also possessed with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine in April of 2024. In May and June of 2024, Sabol distributed 51 grams of methamphetamine, 88 grams of methamphetamine, and 330 grams of methamphetamine to another. Vaden sold pound quantities of methamphetamine to another in April and June of 2024 and two pounds of methamphetamine in July of 2024. Finally, Stout possessed with the intent to distribute methamphetamine in April of 2024 and distributed 51 grams of methamphetamine to another in May of 2024.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the FBI and LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily Lantz and Frank Dahl are prosecuting this case, with assistance from paralegal specialist Adela Alic.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
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