Western District of Kentucky
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Owensboro, Kentucky Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Owensboro, KY – An Owensboro, Kentucky, man was sentenced yesterday to 12 years in federal prison for distribution of methamphetamine, possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Sheila G. Lyons of the DEA Chicago Field Division made the announcement.
According to court documents, Montae Goodnight, 37, was sentenced to 12 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for distribution of methamphetamine, possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On November 29, 2022, Goodnight distributed 50 grams or more of a methamphetamine mixture. On January 20, 2023, Goodnight possessed methamphetamine with the intent to distribute it and possessed a Taurus, model 740 Slim, .40 caliber semi-automatic pistol, and ammunition. Goodnight was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On August 22, 2006, in Daviess Circuit Court, Goodnight was convicted of robbery in the second degree.
On April 7, 2008, in United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky, Owensboro Division, Goodnight was convicted of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute crack cocaine.
On or about October 2, 2013, in Daviess Circuit Court, Goodnight was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree.
On June 29, 2018, in Daviess Circuit Court, Goodnight was convicted of possession of controlled substances.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the DEA Evansville Resident Office with assistance from the Owensboro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Operation Take Back America Results in the Administrative Arrest of 81 Illegal Aliens, 25 of Whom Were Also Charged with Felony Criminal OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – During the week of March 10 through March 14, 2025, as part of Operation Take Back America, multiple federal law enforcement agencies in Kentucky worked together to repel the invasion of illegal immigration throughout the Commonwealth. The operation, coordinated out of Louisville, resulted in 81 administrative arrests of illegal aliens. Of the 81 illegal aliens arrested, 25 were also charged with immigration-related criminal offenses, including illegal reentry after deportation or removal, illegal possession of firearms, and illegal possession of controlled substances. In the Western District of Kentucky, 53 illegal aliens were administratively arrested, with 18 being criminally charged.
The illegal aliens not charged criminally will be held in ICE custody, pending removal proceedings and potential deportation.
The arrests included illegal aliens from Mexico, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Cuba, India and Palau.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, Sam Olson, Field Office Director, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and U.S. Marshal Gary B. Burman of the Western District of Kentucky made the announcement.
“I commend the work of our federal law enforcement partners, prosecutors, and support personnel who worked tirelessly to make this operation a success,” stated U.S. Attorney Bennett. “The aggressive investigation and prosecution of those who violate immigration laws positively impacts the security of our communities and of the Nation.”
The following 18 illegal aliens were charged by indictment or criminal complaint in the Western District of Kentucky:
Moises Archaga-Garcia, age 46, a citizen of Honduras, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 10, 2025, Archaga-Garcia 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 30, 2003. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Luis Alberto Torres-Flores, age 35, a citizen of El Salvador, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 10, 2025, Torres-Flores 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 29, 2014. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Lorenzo Perez-Perez, age 33, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 10, 2025, Perez-Perez 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 7, 2011, and January 21, 2016. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Aroldo Rodriguez-Navarro, age 40, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 10, 2025, Rodriguez-Navarro 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 25, 2009, and June 5, 2014. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Angel David Zuniga-Baca, age 35, a citizen of Honduras, was charged with possession of a firearm by an illegal alien and reentry after deportation or removal. On or about October 12, 2024, Zuniga-Baca possessed a firearm in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with knowledge that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. On or about March 10, 2025, Zuniga-Baca was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about November 16, 2009, and April 25, 2014. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison.
Ewin Cabrera-Cabrera, age 33, a citizen of Honduras, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 11, 2025, Cabrera-Cabrera was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about April 10, 2014, and February 7, 2013. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Roberto Cruz-Pacheco, age 34, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 11, 2025, Cruz-Pacheco 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 31, 2008. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Darwin Martinez-Figueroa, age 41, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 11, 2025, Martinez-Figueroa 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 17, 2014, and April 11, 2018. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Williams Josue Rodriguez-Calix, age 28, a citizen of Honduras, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 11, 2025, Rodriguez-Calix 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 12, 2018. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Jose Rodriguez, age 39, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 11, 2025, Rodriguez 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 1, 2011, and February 28, 2020. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Zoiber Hernandez-Dominguez, age 50, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. On or about December 16, 2024, Hernandez-Dominguez possessed a firearm in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with knowledge that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Marcos Juarez-Morente, age 38 a citizen of Guatemala, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 13, 2025, Juarez-Morente was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about January 20, 2006, and May 19, 2006. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Esteban Perez-Cristostomo, age 45, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 13, 2025, Perez-Cristostomo was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about January 21, 2010. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Ramiro Galeana-Arzate, age 28, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 14, 2025, Galeana-Arzate 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 4, 2020. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison.
Humberto Avila-Duran, age 54, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with possession of a firearm by an illegal alien and reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 14, 2025, Avila-Duran possessed a firearm in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with knowledge that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. On the same day, Avila-Duran was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about January 21, 2011, March 3, 2011, March 8, 2011, August 14, 2012, May 9, 2014, May 13, 2014, and November 13, 2020. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 17 years in prison.
Humberto Avila-Murillo, age 28, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. On or about March 14, 2025, Avila-Murillo possessed a firearm in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with knowledge that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years in prison.
Edi Diaz-Lopez, age 30, a citizen of Mexico, was charged possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by an illegal alien, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. On or about January 3, 2025, Diaz-Lopez possessed a firearm and methamphetamine with knowledge that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 40 years in prison.
Alvaro Mandujano-Rodriguez, age 32, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with possession of a firearm by an illegal alien and reentry after deportation or removal. On or about October 7, 2023, Mandujano-Rodriguez was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about November 29, 2025. On the same date, Mandujano-Rodriguez possessed two firearms in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with knowledge that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 17 years 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.
The operation was coordinated by HSI Nashville and ICE/ERO Chicago. The cases are being investigated by the HSI, ICE/ERO, FBI, ATF, DEA, and USMS.
These cases are 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).
An indictment 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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Medical Equipment Business Owner Sentenced to Federal Prison and Ordered to Pay Restitution in the Amount of over $1.3 MillionRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY–A former Kentucky man was sentenced this week to over 1 year in prison for engaging in a conspiracy to commit health care fraud and money laundering in connection with his Durable Medical Equipment (DME) businesses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Tamala Miles of the United States Department for Health and Human Services (HHS), Office of Inspector General, Office of Investigations, Atlanta Regional Office, made the announcement.
According to court documents, Shafi Abbas, 57, formerly of Pendleton, Kentucky, was sentenced to 1 year and 1 day in prison, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to commit health care fraud and three counts of money laundering. Abbas, through his companies, Aidmen Medical Equipment LLC and Justright Medical Equipment LLC, fraudulently billed Medicare for Durable Medical Equipment, which was medically unnecessary, unwanted by patients, and not prescribed by the patients’ medical providers. Abbas further transferred funds, in criminally derived property of a value greater than $10,000, which came from specified unlawful activity, specifically the health care fraud conspiracy.
There is no parole in the federal system.
Abbas was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $1,333,722.21.
This case was investigated by the FBI and HHS.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Ansari prosecuted the case.
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Hickman, Kentucky Man Charged with Federal Narcotics and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY –A federal criminal complaint and arrest warrant was issued this week charging a Hickman, Kentucky man with conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances and being a felon in possession of a firearm.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
According to court records, on or about and between October 20, 2023, and March 11, 2025, Christopher Tyler Wilson, 31, conspired to possess with the intent to distribute controlled substances. On March 11, 2025, agents obtained a search warrant for two USPS packages addressed to Wilson at his residence. Inside the packages, they located a large amount of suspected counterfeit Adderall pills. When Wilson came to the post office to retrieve the packages, a firearm was in plain view in the vehicle. Wilson was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On April 22, 2021, in Hickman Circuit Court, Wilson was convicted of first-degree unlawful imprisonment and assault under extreme emotional disturbance.
A search warrant was later executed at Wilson’s residence resulting in the seizure of additional suspected counterfeit Adderall pills, suspected fentanyl pills packaged for sale, suspected Xanax bars, and suspected crystal methamphetamine. Agents also located a large amount of U.S. currency, a money counter, a digital scale, an empty pistol box with ammunition, and a suspected firearm suppressor.
Wilson made an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on March 12, 2025. Wilson was ordered detained pending trial. If convicted on the charges in the complaint, Wilson 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.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the ATF Paducah Satellite Office, the U.S. Postal Inspectors Service Bowling Office, the HSI Bowling Green Office, and the DEA Paducah Post of Duty, with assistance from the Kentucky State Police, the Hickman Police Department, and the Fulton County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
A criminal 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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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Franklin, Kentucky Man for Child Sexual Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY –A federal grand jury in Bowling Green returned an indictment on March 12, 2025, charging a Franklin, Kentucky man with distributing child pornography, possessing child pornography, and sexually exploiting children.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Sheriff Jere Hopson of the Simpson County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Joseph N. Roush, 27, was charged with one count of distribution of child pornography, one count of possession of child pornography, and one count of sexual exploitation of children.
The defendant previously made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The Court ordered the defendant detained pending trial. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum sentence of 70 years 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 Homeland Security Investigations and the Simpson County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Bullitt County Felon for Illegally Possessing FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on February 4, 2025, charging a local man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division.
According to the indictment, Craig Smith, 60, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On November 16, 2024, Smith possessed a Smith and Wesson, model T/C Compass, .308 caliber rifle, bearing serial number TJE4848, and ammunition. Smith was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On April 19, 2018, in Bullitt Circuit Court, Smith was convicted of complicity to theft by unlawful taking $500 or more but under $10,000.
On October 15, 2007, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Smith was convicted of theft by unlawful taking over $300.
On September 12, 2007, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Smith was convicted of illegal possession of a controlled substance in the first degree, cocaine.
On January 3, 2006, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Smith was convicted of complicity to burglary in the second degree and complicity to burglary in the third degree.
The defendant made his initial court appearance this week before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years 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 Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with assistance by the Kentucky Department of Fish and Wildlife and the Mount Washington Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia P. Gomez is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation. 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 4 Illegal Aliens for Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green and Paducah, KY – Federal grand juries in Bowling Green and Paducah, Kentucky, returned indictments on March 11th and 12th, 2025, charging 4 individuals with illegal reentry after deportation or removal.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement made the announcement.
According to the indictments:
Pablo Felipe Baltazar, age 26, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about February 14, 2025, Baltazar was an alien found in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about July 16, 2018, June 17, 2024, and August 4, 2024. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO.
Roman Cornejo-Melchor, age 50, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about March 13, 2023, Cornejo-Melchor was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about February 22, 2012, March 15, 2013, and April 13, 2013. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO.
Arcenio Perez-Martinez, age 49, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about February 28, 2025, Perez-Martinez was an alien found in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about September 13, 2019 and April 4, 2020. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO.
Oscar Rene Rodriguez, age 38, a citizen of El Salvador, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about February 28, 2025, Rodriguez was an alien found in United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about July 9, 2009. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Mark J. Yurchisin II, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, and Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, are prosecuting the cases.
These cases are 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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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Felon for Illegally Possessing a Firearm and Distributing Heroin and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on October 16, 2024, charging a local man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, U.S. Marshal Gary B. Burman of the Western District of Kentucky, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Joseph Abbott, 39, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon and possession with intent to distribute heroin and methamphetamine. On September 5, 2024, Abbott possessed a Glock, model 22, .40 caliber handgun and ammunition. Abbott was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On January 12, 2015, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Abbott was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree (heroin) 2 grams or more and tampering with physical evidence.
On June 11, 2010, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Abbott was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree (cocaine) while in possession of a firearm, possession of a handgun by a convicted felon (2 counts), promoting contraband in the first degree, illegal possession of a controlled substance in the first degree (cocaine) (2 counts), receiving stolen property over $300 (2 counts), and tampering with physical evidence.
On March 27, 2006, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Abbott was convicted of illegal possession of a controlled substance (cocaine) and receiving stolen property over $300 (2 counts).
The defendant made his initial court appearance this week before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. A detention hearing is scheduled for March 12, 2025. If convicted, he 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.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the US Marshals Service with assistance from the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Alicia P. Gomez is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
An indictment is merely an allegation. 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 20 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine and Firearms ChargesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville, Kentucky, man was sentenced yesterday to 20 years in federal prison for engaging in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, distributing methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Dominique Lewis, 24, was sentenced to 20 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiring to distribute methamphetamine, distributing methamphetamine, possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking crimes, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Lewis distributed methamphetamine on 12 occasions and conspired to distribute methamphetamine from October 17, 2022, through April 27, 2023. On 2 occasions Lewis possessed of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and on 5 occasions he illegally possessed a firearm because he was a convicted felon. Lewis was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On August 3, 2020, in Shelby County Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of two counts of theft by unlawful taking and two counts of criminal mischief in the first degree.
On August 3, 2021, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of receiving stolen property, two counts of criminal mischief in the first degree, wanton endangerment in the first degree, and fleeing or evading police in the first degree.
On March 10, 2022, in Jefferson County Circuit Court, Lewis was convicted of theft by unlawful taking.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Porter prosecuted the case with the assistance of paralegal Aaron Cooper.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF .
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Louisville Felon Sentenced to over 3 Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A local man was sentenced today to 3 years and 1 month in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after having previously been convicted of a felony offense.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Cameron Lester, 29, was sentenced to 3 years and 1 month in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a Springfield Arms, .45 caliber pistol, and ammunition, on August 30, 2024. Lester was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On July 21, 2023, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Lester was convicted of assault in the fourth-degree domestic violence third or greater offense within 5 years, strangulation in the second degree, and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
On July 30, 2021, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Lester was convicted of two counts of possession of a handgun by a convicted felon, wanton endangerment in the first-degree, and assault in the fourth-degree domestic violence third or greater offense within 5 years.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Josh Porter prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent
violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Federal Grand Jury in Louisville Indicts Illegal Alien for Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on March 4, 2025, charging an illegal alien with federal drug and gun crimes.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Edi Diaz-Lopez, a/k/a Edy Diaz-Lopez, age 30, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession of a firearm by a prohibited person, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. On January 3, 2025, Diaz-Lopez possessed a Phoenix, .25 caliber pistol, and a Bryco, model 59, 9-millimeter pistol. Diaz-Lopez was prohibited from possessing firearms because he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States.
Diaz-Lopez made his initial appearance before a United States Magistrate Judge for the Western District of Kentucky on March 6, 2025. He was ordered detained pending trial. If convicted, Diaz-Lopez faces 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.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by ATF, HSI, ICE/ERO, and LMPD.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl is prosecuting this case.
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 Former Paralegal for Wire Fraud, Tax Evasion, and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on March 4, 2025, charging a former paralegal with 8 counts of wire fraud, 3 counts of tax evasion, and 1 count of aggravated identity theft.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison of the Pittsburgh Division, and Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Crystal Whitaker, 44, currently of Somerset, was charged with 8 counts of wire fraud, 3 counts of tax evasion, and 1 count of aggravated identity theft, all of which occurred between March 30, 2020, and March 3, 2025. Whitaker was working as a paralegal for attorney J.R.S. at law firm SLG. when J.R.S. passed away. Whitaker then added herself to SLG’s bank accounts by concealing J.R.S.’s death. Once added to SLG’s bank accounts, Whitaker withdrew money from the accounts to make unauthorized personal purchases. Additionally, Whitaker filed a false tax return for calendar year 2020, failing to report all of the income she earned and that she embezzled. Whitaker failed to file any tax returns for calendar years 2021 and 2022.
On March 6, 2025, Whitaker made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Whitaker faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years and a maximum sentence of 177 years 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 USPIS and the IRS-CI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Ansari is prosecuting this case.
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 in Louisville Indicts One Former and Two Current Kentucky State Police Troopers for Federal Civil Rights ViolationsRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on March 4, 2025, charging one former and two current Kentucky State Police Troopers with violating individuals’ civil rights while acting as troopers with the Kentucky State Police.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
According to the indictment, former Kentucky State Police Trooper Thomas Czartorski, 34, was charged with two counts of using unreasonable force in violation of Title 18, United States Code, Section 242. Kentucky State Police Trooper Jarrod Lewis, 29, was charged with one count of using unreasonable force. Kentucky State Police Trooper James Cameron Wright, 30, was charged with two counts of using unreasonable force and one count of perjury related to false declarations made under oath in connection with a federal civil case involving allegations of civil rights violations.
Czartorski, Lewis, and Wright will make initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky on April 3, 2025. If convicted, Thomas Czartorski faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. If convicted, Jarrod Lewis faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. If convicted, James Cameron Wright faces a maximum sentence of 25 years 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 Louisville Public Corruption Civil Rights Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Christopher Tieke and Stephanie Zimdahl for the Western District of Kentucky and Trial Attorneys Anita Channapati and Katherine DeVar of the Civil Rights Division are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Federal Grand Jury in Louisville Indicts 2 Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned indictments on March 4, 2025, charging 2 illegal aliens with federal criminal offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement made the announcement.
According to the indictments:
Vidal Ricardo Murillo-Zuniga, age 34, a citizen of Honduras, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about January 22, 2025, Murillo-Zuniga 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 29, 2013. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE/ERO.
Roberto Diaz-Jarquin, age 35, a citizen of Mexico, was charged with possession of a firearm by an illegal alien. On or about November 10, 2023, Diaz-Jarquin possessed 6 firearms in Jefferson County, Kentucky, with knowledge that he was an alien illegally and unlawfully in the United States. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 15 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Joe Ansari and Josh Porter are prosecuting the cases.
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 in Louisville Returns 6 Indictments Charging 13 DefendantsRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – On February 19, 2025, a federal grand jury in Louisville charged 13 Kentucky residents in six indictments involving methamphetamine and firearms offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the first indictment, Johnathan Hankins, 34, and Tremell Smith, 33, both of Louisville, are each charged with two counts of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine between March 11, 2024, and May 22, 2024.
According to the second indictment, Shawn Beason, 35, of Louisville, and Justin Cummins, 28, and William Willis, 54, both of Mount Vernon, Kentucky, are charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on April 5, 2024.
According to the third indictment, Ejai Shanklin, 22, of Louisville, is charged with three counts of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime between April 6, 2024, and June 6, 2024. Daryl Horton, 22, of Louisville, is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on May 20, 2024.
According to the fourth indictment, Jeffrey Bradley, 33, Britney Calloway, 39, and Curtis Wright, 66, all of Louisville, and Jeffrey Holder, 49, of Ferguson, Kentucky, are charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Beginning as early as June 26, 2024, and continuing through August 7, 2024, the defendants conspired to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine.
Bradley is also charged with three counts of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Calloway and Wright are also each charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. Holder is also charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, one count of possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. On June 26, 2024, Holder possessed an Inter Ordnance, Hellcat, .38 caliber handgun, an Imperial Metal Products, Model IMP .22 caliber revolver, and a Remington Arms Company, Model 1100, 12-gauge shotgun. Holder was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On March 19, 2008, in Powell Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of flagrant nonsupport.
On March 19, 2008, in Powell Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree.
On September 8, 2014, in Powell Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of theft by unlawful taking.
On September 8, 2014, in Powell Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of theft by unlawful taking.
On December 17, 2014, in Powell Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree (two counts).
On May 20, 2016, in Powell Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of flagrant nonsupport.
On March 29, 2017, in Pulaski Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of flagrant nonsupport and bail jumping in the first degree.
On November 27, 2019, in Pulaski Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of fleeing or evading police in the first degree, wanton endangerment in the first degree, trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree, and possession of a controlled substance in the first degree.
On January 7, 2021, in Pulaski Circuit Court, Holder was convicted of fleeing or evading police in the first degree (two counts) and wanton endangerment in the first degree.
According to the fifth indictment, Honesty Davis, 35, of Louisville, is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on August 26, 2024.
According to the sixth indictment, Jaquan Tooley, 28, of Louisville, is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine on September 13, 2024.
Eight of the 13 defendants have been arrested and made their initial court appearances this week before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. One defendant will make his initial appearance on March 3, 2024. Ejai Shanklin, Daryl Horton, Jeffrey Holder, and William Willis are in state custody and will make initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge at a later date.
If convicted, the defendants each face minimum sentences ranging from 10 to 25 years, and all face 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.
The cases are being investigated by the ATF, DEA, HSI, IRS-CI, KSP, and the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts is prosecuting the cases.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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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Terre Haute Man Sentenced to over Two Years in Federal Prison for Firearms Trafficking OffenseRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY - A Terre Haute, Indiana, man was sentenced yesterday to two years and six months in federal prison for illegally transferring a firearm to a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Sheriff Derek Polston of the Russell County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to court documents, Shawn Michael Kays, 42, was sentenced to two years and six months in federal prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for illegally transferring a firearm to a convicted felon. According to the plea agreement, between November of 2023 and January of 2024, Kays transported and transferred a Smith & Wesson, Model SD9VE, nine-millimeter pistol to a convicted felon. A criminal complaint filed on September 19, 2024, alleged that firearm was later used to kill a Russell County Sheriff’s Deputy on September 16, 2024. Kays is not charged with or alleged to have been involved in the shooting.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Branch Office and the Russell County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the ATF Columbus Field Division, the ATF Indianapolis Field Division Office, and the Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Hardin County, Kentucky Man Sentenced to 4 Years in Federal Prison for Mailing Threats to Kill and ExtortRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY - A Hardin County, Kentucky man was sentenced yesterday to 4 years in prison for mailing letters with threats to kill and extort.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Chief Jeremy Thompson of the Elizabethtown Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Kyle Miller, 21, was sentenced to 4 years in federal prison, followed by 3 years supervised release, for mailing threatening communications with threats to kill and extort. On July 6, 2023, August 28, 2023, and October 16, 2023, Miller mailed letters to a victim containing threats to kill. On January 28, 2024, Miller mailed letters to a victim containing threats to kill and extort. On October 13, 2023, Miller mailed a letter to a victim containing a threat to kill.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI, KSP and Elizabethtown Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts prosecuted the case.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Four Men for Wire Fraud, Wire Fraud Conspiracy, and Aggravated Identity TheftRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville returned an indictment on February 19, 2025, charging four Jefferson County, Kentucky men with wire fraud, wire fraud conspiracy, and aggravated identity theft.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd of the Internal Revenue Service, Criminal Investigation, Cincinnati Field Office, and Chief Richard Sanders of the Jeffersontown Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, between at least May 1, 2023, and November 14, 2023, Anthony Phillips, 61, Aubrey Walker, Sr., 50, William Walker, 49, and Robert Lewis, 44, conspired to defraud a victim company by falsely representing they were representatives of the company’s small business clients to make purchases from the victim company and charge them to the client accounts. The defendants are also charged with several counts of execution of this wire fraud scheme. In executing this scheme, the defendants caused wires to be transmitted in interstate commerce from the Western District of Kentucky to outside of Kentucky. Anthony Phillips is also charged with transferring, possessing, or using a means of identification of another person, without lawful authority, during and in relation to the wire fraud.
The defendants made their initial court appearances this week before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. If convicted, Anthony Phillips faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 2 years and a maximum sentence of 26 years in prison. If convicted Aubrey Walker, Sr., William Walker, and Robert Lewis each face 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.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case is being investigated by the IRS CI and the Jeffersontown Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erin McKenzie is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Two Men Sentenced to 26 and 20 Years in Federal Prison for Multiple Armed Business RobberiesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Two men were sentenced last week after previously pleading guilty to multiple counts of armed robberies that occurred at Louisville and Bullitt County, Kentucky businesses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Demarcus Page, 31, of Bullitt County was sentenced to 26 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Page was convicted of eight counts of interference with commerce by robbery and three counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Joseph Campbell, 29, of Louisville was sentenced to 20 years in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Campbell was convicted of five counts of interference with commerce by robbery and two counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. All the robberies occurred between June 12, 2023, and September 12, 2023.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Emily Lantz prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Princeton, Kentucky Man Sentenced to 24 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Princeton, Kentucky, man was sentenced last week to 24 years in federal prison for numerous felony offenses, including three counts of distribution of methamphetamine and one count of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Chief Chris King of the Princeton Police Department, and Director David Thompson of the Pennyrile Narcotics Task Force made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial in October of 2024, Micah Gray, 44, of Princeton, Kentucky, sold quantities of methamphetamine on three occasions during a two-day period from August 26th to 27th, 2021. Additionally, on August 27, 2021, investigators searched Gray’s apartment and located approximately one and one-half pounds of methamphetamine and items related to methamphetamine distribution.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The DEA Paducah Post of Duty Office, the Pennyrile Narcotics Task Force, and the Princeton Police Department investigated the case, with assistance from the Kentucky State Police and the Commonwealth Attorney’s Office for the 56th Judicial Circuit.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth A. Hancock, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case with assistance from paralegal Cristy Crockett.
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Former Fort Campbell Soldier Sentenced to over Five Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A former Fort Campbell soldier was sentenced last week to 5 years and 4 months in federal prison for receiving and distributing child pornography.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky and Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the Federal Bureau of Investigation Louisville Field Office made the announcement.
According to court documents, Brett Nicolas Ellison, 24, was sentenced to 5 years and 4 months in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of receipt of child pornography and one count of possession of child pornography. Between November 2019 and June 2022, Ellison received and possessed child sexual abuse material while he was a soldier stationed at the Fort Campbell Army Post, possessing over 90 images and 70 videos containing child sexual abuse material.
Ellison was also ordered to pay $57,000 in restitution to victims.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI Hopkinsville Satellite Office and Army CID.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, 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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Crofton, Kentucky Man Sentenced to over 6 Years in Federal Prison for Being a Felon in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A Crofton, Kentucky, man was sentenced last week to 6 years and 5 months in federal prison for illegally possessing a firearm after having previously been convicted of a felony offense.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Sheriff Tyler DeArmond of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to court documents, Earl Ray Cook, Jr., 27, of Crofton, Kentucky, was sentenced to 6 years and 5 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for illegally possessing a Taurus model G3C 9mm handgun, and ammunition, on January 29, 2024, in Christian County, Kentucky. Cook was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On June 8, 2016, in Christian Circuit Court, Cook was convicted of first-degree possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, first offense and possession of drug paraphernalia while armed.
On February 12, 2018, in Daviess Circuit Court, Cook was convicted of theft of identity of another without consent, theft of a motor vehicle registration plate or renewal decal, and first-degree possession of a controlled substance, methamphetamine, first offense.
On July 28, 2022, in Daviess Circuit Court, Cook was convicted of third-degree assault and first-degree fleeing or evading police.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF Bowling Green Field Office and Christian County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Seth A. Hancock, Chief of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Business Owner Agrees to Pay $1,731,200 to Resolve Allegations He Misappropriated COVID-19 Loan ProceedsRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY- Ryan Turtle, of Memphis, TN, has agreed to pay the United States $1,731,200 to resolve allegations that he unjustly enriched himself by misappropriating COVID-19 Economic Injury Disaster Loan (“EIDL”) funds obtained from the Small Business Administration (SBA) during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The civil settlement was announced by Michael A. Bennett, United States Attorney for the Western District of Kentucky.
“COVID-19 EIDL funds were intended to help small business owners during difficult economic times and taking advantage of this program will not be tolerated,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. “Our office is committed to investigating and recovering taxpayer monies that have been diverted or misused.”
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the SBA provided COVID-19 EIDLs to small businesses to be used for “working capital.” Turtle owned the Turtle Company, a Kentucky corporation, which operated Little Caesars franchises in Western Kentucky. On October 27, 2021, Turtle submitted an Amended Loan Authorization and Agreement with the SBA, in which he certified and promised that he would use the loan proceeds as “working capital” for his business as required by the Agreement.
Instead of using the loan proceeds as “working capital” for his business as required, the United States alleges that Turtle transferred the loan proceeds into various cryptocurrency accounts shortly after receiving them from the SBA. By failing to use the loan proceeds as required by the Agreement, the United States contends that Turtle unjustly enriched himself.
The claims resolved by this settlement are allegations.
Assistant U.S. Attorney, Matt Weyand, handled this matter for the United States.
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Illegal Aliens Charged with Methamphetamine and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – A federal criminal complaint and arrest warrant were issued this week charging two illegal aliens with aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. One of the defendants was also charged with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs, and Chief Jason Newby of the Hopkinsville Police Department made the announcement.
According to court records, on August 28, 2024, a search warrant was executed at a residence in Hopkinsville where Carlos Daniel Davalillo-Silva, 26, and Paola Alexandra Rodriguez, 32, both citizens of Venezuela, had been staying. The search yielded approximately 3 pounds of methamphetamine that the pair intended to distribute. Rodriguez was also found to be in possession of two firearms. Silva and Rodriguez were charged with aiding and abetting the possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Rodriguez was also charged with being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
Homeland Security Investigations verified that Silva and Rodriguez are Venezuelan and entered the United States illegally.
The defendants are in state custody and will make initial court appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge of the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky at a later date. If convicted, they each face 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 DEA – Paducah Post of Duty, the ATF – Bowling Green Post of Duty, HSI, ICE/ERO, and the Hopkinsville Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
A criminal 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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Federal Grand Jury in Louisville Indicts 3 Illegal AliensRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned indictments on February 19, 2025, charging 3 illegal aliens with federal criminal offenses.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, Police Chief Mike Canon of the Calvert City Police Department, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement made the announcement.
According to the indictments:
Juan Baltazar Felipe-Pedro, age 26, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about January 23, 2025, Felipe-Pedro was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about April 25, 2019. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI and ICE/ERO.
Jhoandiris Jimenez-Barrio, age 26, and Yirvel Yonaker Rios-Castro, age 20, citizens of Venezuela, were indicted for conspiracy to commit bank larceny and attempted bank larceny. On or about January 31, 2025, they conspired with each other and others to break into and steal money from an automated teller machine (ATM). They traveled to a bank in Calvert City, Kentucky and attempted to open an ATM to steal money. Homeland Security Investigations verified that Jimenez-Barrio and Rios-Castro are Venezuelan and entered the United States illegally. If convicted, the men face a maximum sentence of 50 years in prison. The case is being investigated by the FBI, Calvert City Police Department, and HSI.
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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Spencer McKiness, Seth Hancock, and Raymond McGee are prosecuting the cases.
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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U.S. Attorney's Office for the Western District of Kentucky Collects over $104 Million in Fiscal Year 2024Read the Press Release
Louisville, KY- U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky announced today that the United States Attorney’s Office collected $104.8 million in Fiscal Year 2024, which includes $9,239,721.20 in criminal restitution, $95,604,774.97 in civil actions, and $2,441,761 through asset forfeiture.
The Office also worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $23,133,763.62 in matters pursued jointly by these offices.
“Due to extraordinary teamwork in our district in both our Criminal and Civil Divisions, last year federal crime victims received more than $9 million in compensation for their financial losses, and federal agencies recouped more than $95 million in fraudulently-obtained funds and delinquent civil debt,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. “I am extremely proud of our Office’s dedication to track down every possible dollar from perpetrators, fraudsters, and those who refuse to pay their federal obligations. Through outstanding collection efforts, our Office has provided meaningful recoveries to crime victims and the federal taxpayers we serve.”
Last year, the Western District of Kentucky recovered significant criminal restitution for victims, including those injured by crop insurance fraud, employee-related theft, and health care fraud.
Of the over $95 million collected through civil actions, most of the recoveries were collected through actions brought pursuant to the False Claims Act, which permits the United States to recover up to three times the amount of money fraudulently obtained from government programs. The District’s civil recoveries also include $2.5 million for federal agencies in state and federal foreclosures.
U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the Department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts, fines, and assessments owed to the federal government and criminal restitution owed to victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and assessments are paid to the Department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and assistance programs.
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Illegal Alien Charged with Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY –A federal criminal complaint and arrest warrant was issued last week charging an illegal alien with aggravated identity theft, making a false statement during a firearm transaction, and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.
According to court records, on or about November 11, 2024, Manuel Antonio Xante-Ajanel, 25, a citizen of Guatemala, attempted to purchase a firearm from Academy Sports in Paducah using fraudulent identification belonging to another person. The transaction was terminated when the identification provided was flagged as being fraudulent. A search warrant was executed on January 31, 2025, at the defendant’s residence in Mayfield, Kentucky. Law enforcement located numerous fraudulent identification documents. Later that day, a search warrant was executed on the defendant’s vehicle, yielding a loaded 9-millimeter handgun. The defendant admitted to possessing the firearm and to being in the United States unlawfully.
Homeland Security Investigations verified that Xante-Ajanel is Guatemalan and entered the United States illegally.
Xante-Ajanel is in state custody and will make an initial appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky at a later date. If convicted on the charges in the complaint, Xante-Ajanel faces a minimum sentence of 2 years and a maximum sentence of 12 years 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 ATF – Paducah Post of Duty, HSI – Paducah Post of Duty, and the Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, is prosecuting the case.
A criminal 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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Three Illegal Aliens Sentenced for Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY –Three illegal aliens were sentenced to federal prison yesterday for unlawfully reentering the United States after deportation or removal.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) Chicago, U.S. Immigration and Customs, made the announcement.
According to court documents, Jose Alcides Ramirez-Vasquez, age 32, a citizen of El Salvador, was sentenced to seven months in federal prison, followed by one year of supervised release. Ramirez-Vasquez was found in Warren County, Kentucky on or about December 4, 2021, after having previously been deported and removed from the United States on or about November 4, 2013.
Carlos Mendoza-Zapata, age 35, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to fourteen months in federal prison followed by one year of supervised release. Mendoza-Zapata was found in the Warren County on or about December 1, 2023, after having been previously deported and removed from the United States on or about October 21, 2016, April 22, 2022, and April 7, 2023.
Jenaro Heron Mendoza-Hernandez, age 36, a citizen of Mexico, was sentenced to one year and one day in federal prison followed by three years of supervised release. Mendoza-Hernandez was found in Warren County on or about May 9, 2024, after having been previously deported and removed from the United States on or about November 30, 2020, and October 6, 2021.
There is no parole in the federal system.
These cases were investigated by ERO-Louisville, and HSI-Bowling Green.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Madison Sewell prosecuted the cases.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Federal Prison for Methamphetamine Distribution ChargesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A local man was sentenced yesterday to 10 years in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and distribution of methamphetamine.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Shawon Hickman, 51, was sentenced to 10 years in prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine from February to June 8, 2023, and for distributing over 50 grams of methamphetamine on February 16th and March 1st, 2023 in Jefferson County, Kentucky.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF with assistance from the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Porter prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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California Man Sentenced to over 5 Years in Federal Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Los Angeles, California, man was sentenced yesterday to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and money laundering.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Cincinnati Field Office, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison, of the USPIS Pittsburgh Division, Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, Sheriff John E. Aubrey of the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office and Chief Josh Grimes of the Louisville Regional Airport Authority Department of Public Safety made the announcement.
According to court documents, Teyrin Johnson, 30, was sentenced to 5 years and 10 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release. Johnson had been charged following a multi-agency investigation that identified him as part of a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Louisville, Kentucky between June 16, 2020, and March 4, 2021. The investigation also revealed that Johnson laundered drug proceeds on August 10, 2020, when he was stopped at the Louisville Muhammad Ali International Airport carrying $80,160 in cash.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the DEA Louisville Field Division, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Louisville Metro Police Department, the Kentucky State Police, the Jefferson County Sheriff’s Office, and the Louisville Regional Airport Authority Department of Public Safety.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Bonar prosecuted the case.
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Two Kentucky Men Sentenced for Fentanyl Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY –Yesterday, two Kentucky men were sentenced for trafficking in fentanyl and possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police, and Ron Eckart of the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force made the announcement.
According to court documents, Dominik Woods, 23, of Bonnieville, Kentucky, was sentenced to 5 years in prison, followed by 4 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Woods was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offense.
On April 9, 2020, in Hardin Circuit Court, Woods was convicted of enhanced trafficking in marijuana, less than 8 ounces, and tampering with physical evidence.
Joshua Sanders, 36, of Cave City, Kentucky was sentenced to 2 years and 9 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for one count of conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and one count of possession of a firearm by a convicted felon. Sanders was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On June 18, 2009, in Hart Circuit Court, Sanders was convicted of receiving stolen property, firearm.
On March 29, 2010, in Barren Circuit Court, Sanders was convicted of burglary, second degree, and theft by unlawful taking.
On December 22, 2010, in Hart Circuit Court, Sanders was convicted of burglary, second degree, and receiving stolen property over $300.
On January 10, 2018, in Larue Circuit Court, Sanders was convicted of receiving stolen property under $10,000 and possession of controlled substances.
On January 15, 2019, in Warren Circuit Court, Sanders was convicted of fleeing or evading police, first degree.
On May 16, 2019, in Barren Circuit Court, Sanders was convicted of fleeing or evading police, first degree.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF, the KSP, and the Greater Hardin County Narcotics Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joe Ansari prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Former Louisville Attorney Sentenced to over Three Years in Federal Prison for Defrauding Estates and BeneficiariesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A former local attorney was sentenced yesterday to 3 years and 5 months in federal prison for illegally defrauding several estates and their beneficiaries.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge Vince Zehme of the FDIC Office of Inspector General made the announcement.
According to court documents, James Carol Worthington, 59, was sentenced to 3 years and 5 months in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for one count of wire fraud. Worthington used his role as a trustee to defraud several estates and their beneficiaries of over $585,000.
Worthington was also ordered to pay restitution to numerous victims in the total amount of $585,028.91.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the FDIC-OIG.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David Weiser prosecuted the case.
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Venezuelan Men Charged with Bank Larceny OffensesRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY –A federal criminal complaint and arrest warrant were issued this week charging two Venezuelan men with conspiracy to commit bank larceny and attempted bank larceny.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Police Chief Mike Canon of the Calvert City Police Department made the announcement.
According to court records, on January 31, 2025, Jhoandiris Jimenez-Barrio, 26, and Yirvel Yonaiker Rios-Castro, 20, both citizens of Venezuela, attempted to steal money from an ATM located in Calvert City, Kentucky. That day the Calvert City Police Department responded to an ATM alarm and the men fled the scene in a vehicle traveling between 70 and 80 mph. The men struck another vehicle and fled the wreck on foot. The Calvert City Police Department apprehended the men near a service station in Calvert City. A search of their vehicle yielded a cordless drill, drill bits, latex gloves, a mask, and duct tape.
Homeland Security Investigations verified that Jimenez-Barrio and Rios-Castro are Venezuelan and entered the United States illegally.
Jimenez-Barrio and Rios-Castro are in state custody and will make initial appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the U.S. District Court for the Western District of Kentucky at a later date. If convicted on the charges in the complaint, the men face maximum potential penalties of 50 years in prison, a $500,000 fine, and three years of supervised release. 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.
The FBI, HSI, and Calvert City Police Department are investigating.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Seth Hancock and Raymond McGee, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, are prosecuting the case.
A criminal 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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Member of the 764 Criminal Enterprise Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy and Other ChargesRead the Press Release
Jairo Jaime Tinajero, 25, pleaded guilty yesterday in the Western District of Kentucky to the following charges contained in the superseding information: racketeering conspiracy, online enticement, three counts of production of child sexual abuse material, three counts of distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), five counts of interstate communications of threats, cyberstalking, and conspiracy to murder Jane Doe 1 in aid of racketeering. The terms of the plea agreement specify that both parties agree to the applicability of the terrorism sentencing enhancement (U.S.S.G. § 3A1.4 n. 4).
On Oct. 11, 2023, a grand jury in the Western District of Kentucky returned an indictment charging Tinajero with online enticement and production of child sexual abuse material. On Oct. 4, 2023, in the Eastern District of Arkansas, Tinajero was arrested on a criminal complaint that was filed in the Western District of Kentucky.
According to the court documents, Tinajero is a self-identified member of the 764 network. The 764 network’s accelerationist goals include social unrest and the downfall of the current world order, including the U.S. Government. Beginning in 2020, Tinajero started communicating with, and grooming, several minor victims to obtain sexually explicit content from them, including Jane Doe 1. In 2023, Tinajero began to threaten the safety of Jane Doe 1 and her family. Tinajero posted online in encrypted platforms associated with 764 and related groups a “Lorebook” – commonly used in 764 blackmail schemes — containing Jane Doe 1’s identifying information along with nude pictures of the minor.
Between July 2023 and September 2023, during multiple discussions over social media, Tinajero and a co-conspirator agreed that Tinajero should kill Jane Doe 1. Tinajero and the co-conspirator specifically discussed that Tinajero should murder Jane Doe 1 and dispose of Jane Doe 1’s body in a barrel of acid after the murder. Tinajero posted multiple messages on various social media websites stating that he planned to kill Jane Doe 1 with a firearm because Jane Doe 1 refused to provide additional child sexual abuse material.
On Aug. 26, 2023, Tinajero posted on Telegram, “Im determined to die” and “If I gotta kill her I can’t let her live and f**k with dudes and girls while I’m sick and miserable” and “Im gonna live stream it.” Tinajero also posted a picture of Jane Doe 1. On Sept. 2, 2023, Tinajero posted on Telegram, “I wanna kill them so bad just show up at their cribs and shoot 100 rounds in 5 seconds” and, on Sept. 3, 2023, posted “I didn’t wanna do anything bc I was scared of dying or prison but now I’m determined to die if I have to after getting rid of [Jane Doe 1] . . . .” Tinajero also began soliciting others to assist with attempting to kill Jane Doe 1.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts for the Western District of Kentucky and Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. The Violent Crime and Racketeering Section for the Criminal Division and the Eastern District of Arkansas provided assistance.
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Member of the 764 Criminal Enterprise Pleads Guilty to Racketeering Conspiracy and Other ChargesRead the Press Release
Jairo Jaime Tinajero, 25, pleaded guilty yesterday in the Western District of Kentucky to the following charges contained in the superseding information: racketeering conspiracy, online enticement, three counts of production of child sexual abuse material, three counts of distribution of child sexual abuse material (CSAM), five counts of interstate communications of threats, cyberstalking, and conspiracy to murder Jane Doe 1 in aid of racketeering. The terms of the plea agreement specify that both parties agree to the applicability of the terrorism sentencing enhancement (U.S.S.G. § 3A1.4 n. 4).
On Oct. 11, 2023, a grand jury in the Western District of Kentucky returned an indictment charging Tinajero with online enticement and production of child sexual abuse material. On Oct. 4, 2023, in the Eastern District of Arkansas, Tinajero was arrested on a criminal complaint that was filed in the Western District of Kentucky.
According to the court documents, Tinajero is a self-identified member of the 764 network. The 764 network’s accelerationist goals include social unrest and the downfall of the current world order, including the U.S. Government. Beginning in 2020, Tinajero started communicating with, and grooming, several minor victims to obtain sexually explicit content from them, including Jane Doe 1. In 2023, Tinajero began to threaten the safety of Jane Doe 1 and her family. Tinajero posted online in encrypted platforms associated with 764 and related groups a “Lorebook” – commonly used in 764 blackmail schemes — containing Jane Doe 1’s identifying information along with nude pictures of the minor.
Between July 2023 and September 2023, during multiple discussions over social media, Tinajero and a co-conspirator agreed that Tinajero should kill Jane Doe 1. Tinajero and the co-conspirator specifically discussed that Tinajero should murder Jane Doe 1 and dispose of Jane Doe 1’s body in a barrel of acid after the murder. Tinajero posted multiple messages on various social media websites stating that he planned to kill Jane Doe 1 with a firearm because Jane Doe 1 refused to provide additional child sexual abuse material.
On Aug. 26, 2023, Tinajero posted on Telegram, “Im determined to die” and “If I gotta kill her I can’t let her live and f**k with dudes and girls while I’m sick and miserable” and “Im gonna live stream it.” Tinajero also posted a picture of Jane Doe 1. On Sept. 2, 2023, Tinajero posted on Telegram, “I wanna kill them so bad just show up at their cribs and shoot 100 rounds in 5 seconds” and, on Sept. 3, 2023, posted “I didn’t wanna do anything bc I was scared of dying or prison but now I’m determined to die if I have to after getting rid of [Jane Doe 1] . . . .” Tinajero also began soliciting others to assist with attempting to kill Jane Doe 1.
The FBI is investigating the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts for the Western District of Kentucky and Trial Attorneys Justin Sher and James Donnelly of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case. The Violent Crime and Racketeering Section for the Criminal Division and the Eastern District of Arkansas provided assistance.
Federal Grand Jury Indicts Louisville Man for Illegal Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on February 4, 2025, charging a local man with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Acting Special Agent in Charge A.J. Gibes of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Emmett Morris, 28, was charged with possession of a firearm by a convicted felon on July 29, 2024. Morris was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On January 14, 2022, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Morris was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree less than 10 dosage units of opiates, trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree under 2 grams of methamphetamine and convicted felon in possession of a firearm.
On January 21, 2016, in Jefferson Circuit Court, Morris was convicted of facilitation to murder, receiving a stolen firearm and 3 counts of robbery in the second degree.
On February 6, 2025, Morris made an initial court appearance before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. He remains in federal custody pending trial. If convicted, he faces a maximum sentence of 15 years 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 LMPD and the ATF.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Porter is prosecuting this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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 5 Individuals for Immigration OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green and Paducah, KY – Federal grand juries in Bowling Green and Paducah, Kentucky, returned indictments on February 11th and 12th, 2025, charging 5 individuals with illegal reentry after deportation or removal.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations, Nashville, and Sam Olson, Field Office Director for ERO Chicago, U.S. Immigration Customs Enforcement made the announcement.
According to the indictments:
Julio Rodriguez Aguilar, age 33, a citizen of Honduras, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about February 4, 2025, Aguilar 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 8, 2016, October 26, 2018, and August 8, 2022. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 20 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO.
Antonio Pu-Us, age 39, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about January 6, 2025, Pu-Us was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about April 24, 2014, and October 1, 2014. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO.
Edgar Agustin-Gil, age 35, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about January 10, 2025, Agustin-Gil was an alien found in the United States after having been denied admission, excluded, deported, and removed from the United States on or about October 4, 2017. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO.
Jose Mayorga-Basurto, age 29, a citizen of Mexico, was charged in Bowling Green with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about January 28, 2025, Mayorga-Basurto 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 30, 2015, and June 7, 2015. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, ICE/ERO.
Deyvi Humberto Cruz-Guerra, age 30, a citizen of Guatemala, was charged in Paducah with reentry after deportation or removal. On or about November 30, 2024, Cruz-Guerra 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 20, 2013, and October 8, 2021. If convicted he faces a maximum sentence of 2 years in prison. This case is being investigated by HSI, 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.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Frank Dahl, Mark J. Yurchisin II, and Raymond McGee are prosecuting the cases.
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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Indiana Man Sentenced to 25 Years in Federal Prison for Child Exploitation OffensesRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – An Indiana man was sentenced yesterday to 25 years in federal prison for online enticement, attempted sexual exploitation of a child, and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Sheriff Tyler DeArmond of the Christian County Sheriff’s Office made the announcement.
According to court documents, Jason Webster, 30, of Lafayette, Indiana, was sentenced to 25 years in federal prison, followed by a lifetime term of supervised release, for one count each of online enticement of a minor, attempted sexual exploitation of a minor, and receipt of child sexual abuse material.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the HSI Bowling Green Field Office and the Christian County Sheriff’s Office, with assistance from the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Indiana, the HSI Hammond, Indiana, Field Office, the HSI Indianapolis, Indiana, Field Office, and the Tippecanoe County, Indiana, Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, 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 over 13 Years in Federal Prison for Distribution of Fentanyl Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – An Evansville, Indiana, man was sentenced today to 13 years and 7 months in federal prison for distribution of fentanyl resulting in death.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Sheila G. Lyons of the DEA Chicago Field Division, and Chief Billy Bolin of the Henderson Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Austin Jenkins, 26, of Evansville was sentenced to 13 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for one count of distribution of fentanyl resulting in death. The distribution resulted in the death of a 17-year-old in Henderson, Kentucky, on October 16, 2022.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by the DEA and Henderson Police Department, with assistance from the Vanderburgh County, Indiana Prosecutor’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Frank Dahl prosecuted the case.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to over 8 Years in Federal Prison for Cocaine Distribution and Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A local man was sentenced this week to 8 years and 1 month for conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents, Roger Bailey, 42, was sentenced to 8 years and 1 month in prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for conspiracy to possess cocaine with intent to distribute, possession of cocaine with intent to distribute, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Between April 9, 2024, and May 29, 2024, Bailey conspired with other persons to possess with intent to distribute cocaine by selling cocaine on four occasions. On May 29, 2024, a residential search warrant was executed on Bailey’s residence located at 441 South 29th Street, Louisville, Kentucky. During the search, cocaine, a Mossberg, Model MMR, 5.56 caliber rifle, a Glock, Model 19, 9-millimeter pistol, an American Tactical Imports, Model Omni Hybrid, multi-caliber pistol, and ammunition were found and seized.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the ATF with assistance from the Louisville Metro Police Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Erwin Roberts is prosecuting the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Louisville Man Sentenced to 3 Months Federal Incarceration and 3 Months Home Incarceration for Aiming a Laser at Police HelicopterRead the Press Release
LOUISVILLE, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced this week to 3 months incarceration to be followed by 3 months home incarceration aiming the beam of laser at a Louisville Metropolitan Police Department.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
“This senseless act could easily have resulted in tragedy for the crew of the helicopter, other aircraft, and citizens on the ground,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. “We will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively identify and charge anyone who engages in this type of criminal conduct. I commend the FBI and LMPD for their prompt investigative work in identifying and apprehending Mr. Freeman.”
According to court documents, Justin E. Freeman, 33, of Louisville, Kentucky, was sentenced 3 months incarceration and 3 months home incarceration, followed by 2 years of supervised release, for aiming the beam of a laser at an aircraft. On or about September 30, 2023, Freeman directed the beam of a laser at an LMPD helicopter operating in Louisville, Kentucky.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua Judd prosecuted the case.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Louisville Metro Police Department with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration.
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Edmonton, Kentucky Man Sentenced to over Five Years in Federal Prison for Illegally Possessing a HandgunRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – An Edmonton, Kentucky, man was sentenced this week to 5 years and 11 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm by a convicted felon.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.
According to court documents, Aaron Dale McKinney, 48, was sentenced to 5 years and 11 months in federal prison, followed by 3 years of supervised release, for being a felon in possession of a firearm. On February 23, 2023, McKinney possessed a Springfield Armory (HS Produkt), model XD-45, 45 caliber semiautomatic pistol, and ammunition. He was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On May 25, 2021, in Metcalfe Circuit Court, McKinney was convicted of possession of a controlled substance, first degree, third or more offense (methamphetamine).
On September 26, 2017, in Metcalfe Circuit Court, McKinney was convicted of manufacturing methamphetamine, first offense.
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 R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Owensboro Man Sentenced to Ten Years in Federal Prison for Attempted Online EnticementRead the Press Release
Bowling Green, KY – An Owensboro, Kentucky, man was sentenced today to 10 years in federal prison for attempted online enticement of a minor and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Rana Saoud of Homeland Security Investigations Nashville, and Commissioner Phillip Burnett, Jr. of the Kentucky State Police made the announcement.
According to court documents, Corey James Jarboe, 30, was sentenced to 10 years in federal prison, followed by 10 years of supervised release, for attempted online enticement of a minor and attempted transfer of obscene material to a minor. Jarboe used the internet to communicate with an undercover law enforcement officer who he believed to be a 14-year-old female, and, during those conversations, he knowingly attempted to entice the minor to engage in criminal sexual activity by making plans to meet in person for sexual contact.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The case was investigated by HSI Bowling Green and the Kentucky State Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorney R. Nicholas Rabold, of the U.S. Attorney’s Bowling Green Branch Office, 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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Louisville Man Sentenced to over 20 Years in Federal Prison for Carjacking Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – Today, a Louisville man was sentenced to 20 years and 5 months in federal prison for a carjacking which resulted in the death of teenage motorist.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department, and Shelby County Sheriff Mark Moore made the announcement.
According to court documents, Michael Dewitt, 31, was sentenced to 20 years and 5 months in federal prison, followed by 5 years of supervised release, for carjacking resulting in death. Dewitt committed a carjacking at gunpoint on March 1, 2021, and stole a 2011 Ford F350 from its owner in Simpsonville, Kentucky. During the immediate flight from the carjacking, and while still in possession of the stolen truck, Dewitt collided with a vehicle on Dixie Highway in Louisville, causing the death of a minor victim. Dewitt had controlled substances in his system at the time.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the FBI Louisville Field Office, the Louisville Metro Police Department, and the Shelby County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Bonar and Mac Shannon prosecuted this case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
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Man Sentenced to over 17 Years in Prison for Shooting at Louisville MayorRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY — A Louisville man was sentenced today to 17 years and 6 months in federal prison for firing shots at current Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg during Greenberg’s 2022 mayoral campaign.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Antoinette T. Bacon of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Michael E. Stansbury of the FBI Louisville Field Office, and Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division made the announcement.
According to court documents, on February 14, 2022, Quintez Brown, 24, walked into Greenberg’s campaign office and fired multiple shots at Greenberg while he was meeting with four staffers. The staffers were able to close and barricade the door, and Brown was apprehended several blocks from the shooting, carrying the firearm he used in a backpack. As part of his guilty plea, Brown admitted that he acted because Greenberg was running for mayor.
In July 2024, Brown pleaded guilty to interfering with a federally protected activity and using and discharging a firearm in relation with a crime of violence. Brown’s term of imprisonment will be followed by five years of supervised release.
There is no parole in the federal system.
The FBI, ATF, and Louisville Metro Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Amanda Gregory for the Western District of Kentucky and Trial Attorney Alexander Gottfried of the Criminal Division’s Public Integrity Section prosecuted the case. Trial Attorney Barry Disney of the Criminal Division’s Mental Health Litigation Unit and Trial Attorney Jolee Porter of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section provided substantial assistance to the prosecution.
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Federal Jury Finds Hopkinsville, Kentucky Man Guilty of Methamphetamine and Fentanyl Distribution Conspiracy and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
Paducah, KY – Today, following a three-day trial, a federal jury convicted a Hopkinsville, Kentucky, man of conspiring to possess with the intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, as well as seven counts of money laundering.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge Lesley Allison, of the USPIS Pittsburgh Division, Special Agent in Charge Karen Wingerd, of the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Cincinnati Field Office, Special Agent in Charge Shawn Morrow of the Department of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives Louisville Field Division, and Chief Jason Newby of the Hopkinsville Police Department made the announcement.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, between May 20, 2020, and January 22, 2022, Robert Blaine, 46, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky conspired with Roderick Tutt and Jessica Ochoa to possess with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and over 400 grams of a fentanyl mixture. During that time frame, Blaine wired money to Ochoa as payment for the drugs and in furtherance of the overall conspiracy. Blaine also mailed a box containing $36,960 in U.S. currency to Ochoa that he obtained from proceeds of illegal drug sales. On January 21, 2022, Blaine arranged for Tutt to travel to Arizona to pick up fentanyl and methamphetamine from Ochoa. Tutt was supposed to bring the drugs back to Blaine in Hopkinsville. Tutt was arrested on the way back to Hopkinsville with 2,059 fentanyl pills and approximately 8 kilograms of methamphetamine. Blaine has numerous prior drug trafficking convictions.
On July 20, 2023, Roderick Tutt, 36, of Hopkinsville, Kentucky, and Jessica Ochoa, 40, of Phoenix, Arizona pled guilty to conspiring with Blaine to possess with the intent to distribute over 50 grams of methamphetamine and 400 grams of a mixture and substance containing fentanyl. Ochoa also pled guilty to seven counts of money laundering. Tutt and Ochoa are scheduled for sentencing on March 25, 2025, before a United States District Judge for the Western District of Kentucky.
Blaine is scheduled for sentencing on May 5, 2025, and remains in federal custody pending sentencing. He faces a mandatory minimum sentence of 25 years and a maximum sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the sentencing guidelines and other statutory factors.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the DEA Paducah Post of Duty, the United States Postal Inspection Service, the Internal Revenue Service Criminal Investigations Division, ATF – Louisville Division, and the Hopkinsville Police Department, with assistance from the FBI Louisville Field Division, the Tonto Apache Police Department, and the DEA – Phoenix Division.
Assistant United States Attorney Leigh Ann Dycus, of the U.S. Attorney’s Paducah Branch Office, prosecuted the case with assistance from paralegal Cristy Crockett.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Federal Grand Jury Indicts Two Louisville Men for Drug and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A federal grand jury in Louisville, Kentucky, returned an indictment on January 8, 2025, charging two local men with trafficking in firearms, distribution of methamphetamine, and illegal possession of firearms.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Special Agent in Charge R. Shawn Morrow of the ATF Louisville Field Division, Special Agent in Charge Jim Scott of the DEA Louisville Field Division, Karen Wingerd, Special Agent in Charge, Cincinnati Field Office, IRS Criminal Investigation, and Chief Paul Humphrey of the Louisville Metro Police Department made the announcement.
According to the indictment, Sukhjit Bains, 51, was charged with two counts of trafficking in firearms, two counts of distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, two counts 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 machinegun conversion device. A Glock Switch device allows a semi-automatic handgun to function as an automatic and is defined as a machine gun under federal law. All charges occurred on November 20th and December 12th of 2024. 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 in Jefferson County 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.
Jonathan Ernspiker, 42, was charged with trafficking in firearms, distribution of 50 grams or more of a mixture of methamphetamine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. All charges occurred on November 20, 2024. Ernspiker was prohibited from possessing a firearm because he had previously been convicted of the following felony offenses.
On May 26, 2017, in Bullitt County Circuit Court, Ernspiker was convicted of being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance in the first degree methamphetamine.
On November 4, 2013, in Bullitt County Circuit Court, Ernspiker was convicted of fleeing or evading police in the first degree, and manufacturing methamphetamine in the first degree.
On May 3, 2013, in Bullitt County Circuit Court, Ernspiker was convicted of trafficking in a controlled substance in the first degree greater than two grams of methamphetamine.
On October 1, 2008, in Bullitt County Circuit Court, Ernspiker was convicted of criminal mischief in the first degree.
On January 10th Ernspiker and on January 13th Baines made an initial made initial court appearances before a U.S. Magistrate Judge in the United States District Court for the Western District of Kentucky. The Court ordered the Ernspiker detained pending trial. Baines has a detention hearing scheduled for tomorrow, January 16th. If convicted, Bains faces a minimum sentence of 15 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life in prison, Ernspiker faces a minimum sentence of 10 years in prison and 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 ATF, LMPD, DEA, and IRS-CI.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Joshua R. Porter is prosecuting this case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
This case was prosecuted under the new criminal provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, which Congress enacted and the President signed in June 2022. The Act is the first federal statute specifically designed to target the unlawful trafficking and straw-purchasing of firearms.
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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Telehealth Company Pays $386,000 to Resolve Allegations of Overbilling for Medicare Telehealth TimeRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky announced today that CompreCare Health LLC, and its affiliates, doing business as Meditelecare LLC, agreed to pay $358,514.00 to resolve allegations that Meditelicare billed Medicare for telehealth psychotherapy sessions that did not meet the minimum time requirements. CompreCare Health is a Connecticut business and provided services in at least 17 states including Kentucky.
“I commend the outstanding effort of the attorneys and investigators who worked on this case on behalf of the United States,” said U.S Attorney Bennett. “Those who bill Medicare for timed services must do so accurately as we take these matters very seriously and will vigorously pursue claims that Medicare is being overcharged.”
The United States alleged that, between January 1, 2017, and November 30, 2022, Meditelecare submitted and caused the submission of claims to Medicare for telehealth psychotherapy sessions that did not meet the minimum time requirements for payments and relied on false time records in support of these same telehealth services. The allegations arose from a whistleblower suit filed in federal court in Bowling Green, Kentucky. United States ex rel. Laura Cole and Tiffany Saylor v. MedOptions of Kentucky, et al., 1:19-cv-171-GNS (WDKY).
The United States was represented by Assistant U.S. Attorneys A. Matthew Weyand and William F. Campbell. The case was investigated by Auditor Phil Bezehertny and Federal Investigator Cristal Fox from the United States Attorney’s Office, as well as special agents from the Defense Criminal Investigative Service and the Office of Inspector for the Department of Health and Human Services.
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Sixteen Cardiology Practices to Pay a Total of $17.7M to Resolve False Claims Act Allegations Concerning Inflated Medicare ReimbursementsRead the Press Release
Sixteen separate cardiology practices and associated physicians, located across 12 states, have agreed to pay amounts totaling $17,761,564 to resolve allegations that they each violated the False Claims Act by overbilling Medicare for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals.
Diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals are radioisotopes bound to biological molecules that target specific organs, tissues or cells within the human body and are used to diagnose and, in some cases, treat certain cancers and diseases. In 13 states and the District of Columbia, Medicare Part B reimburses healthcare providers for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals based on the provider’s acquisition cost. In those jurisdictions, Medicare’s contractors have published guidance explaining the reimbursement methodology and providers’ obligation to accurately report their invoice costs for diagnostic radiopharmaceuticals. The government alleged that the settling cardiology practices regularly reported inflated acquisition costs to Medicare for these drugs. In each of the settlements, the conduct occurred for at least a year, and in some instances, the conduct extended over a period of more than 10 years.
“The financial stability of federal healthcare programs depends upon providers complying with applicable billing rules,” said Principal Deputy Assistant Attorney General Brian M. Boynton, head of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We are committed to ensuring that Medicare funds are expended appropriately and to pursuing those who knowingly fail to do so.”
The settling medical practices and associated physicians have agreed to pay the following amounts:
- Western Kentucky Heart & Lung Associates PSC and Mohammed Kazimuddin ($6,750,000)
- Heart Clinic of Paris P.A. and Arjumand Hashmi ($2,600,000)
- Scranton Cardiovascular Physician Services LLC ($2,369,111)
- Shannon Clinic ($996,856)
- Edward W. Leahey M.D. Professional Association and Edward Leahey ($894,679)
- Metropolitan Cardiovascular Consultants LLC and Ayim Djamson ($846,888)
- Cardiology Center of New Jersey LLC, Mario Criscito, Frank Iacovone, and Sameer Kaul ($740,000)
- Clovis Cardiology Associates LLC and Mahamadu Fuseini ($600,000)
- Family Medical Specialty Clinic PLLC, Melecio Abordo, and June Abadilla ($409,594)
- James R. Higgins M.D. Inc. and James Higgins ($395,537)
- TrustCare Health LLC ($279,407)
- Taj Medical Inc. ($240,000)
- White River Diagnostic Clinic PLC, Margaret Kuykendall, and Seth Barnes ($234,490)
- Veinguard Heart & Vascular Center P.C. and Fareeha Khan ($195,000)
- Boulder Medical Center PC ($160,000)
- Wellspring Cardiac Care P.A. ($50,000).
“Practices and providers who overcharge the government and fail to return overpayments compromise our healthcare programs,” said U.S. Attorney Matthew M. Graves for the District of Columbia. “When people see the wrong and report it, we have the tool we need to put a stop to this type of irresponsible conduct. So, I applaud the whistleblowers who came forward in this case.”
“These practitioners overbilled the Medicare program by grossly exaggerating the acquisition costs of drugs used in diagnostic imaging of the heart,” said U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett for the Western District of Kentucky. “This office is committed to protecting our federal health care programs, and we will hold accountable anyone who seeks to exploit them.”
“Medicare providers are required to be honest and accurate in the costs they report for reimbursement,” said Special Agent in Charge Maureen Dixon of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of the Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to investigate alleged false claims act violations and ensure the integrity of the Medicare program. ”
The civil settlement includes the resolution of claims brought under the qui tam or whistleblower provisions of the False Claims Act by relators Jasjit Walia and Preet Randhawa in the District of Columbia and the Western District of Kentucky. Under those provisions, a private party can file an action on behalf of the United States and receive a portion of any recovery. The whistleblowers will receive a total of more than $2.7 million from the settlements announced today.
The resolution obtained in this matter was the result of a coordinated effort between the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Commercial Litigation Branch, Fraud Section and the U.S. Attorneys’ Offices for the District of Columbia and Western District of Kentucky, with assistance from the HHS Office of Counsel to the Inspector General and Office of Investigations.
The investigation and resolution of this matter illustrates the government’s emphasis on combating healthcare fraud. One of the most powerful tools in this effort is the False Claims Act. Tips and complaints from all sources about potential fraud, waste, abuse and mismanagement, can be reported to HHS at 800-HHS-TIPS (800-447-8477).
Trial Attorney James Nealon of the Justice Department’s Civil Division, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Ben Schecter and Matt Weyand for the Western District of Kentucky and Assistant U.S. Attorneys John Truong and Stephen DeGenaro for the District of Columbia handled the matter.
The claims resolved by the settlements are allegations only. There has been no determination of liability.
View the Heart Clinic of Paris settlement agreement here.
View the Leahey settlement agreement here.
View the Scranton settlement agreement here.
View the Metropolitan settlement agreement here.
View the Shannon Clinic settlement agreement here.
View the Family Medical Specialty Clinic settlement agreement here.
View the Taj Medical settlement agreement here.
View the TrustCare settlement agreement here.
View the Veinguard settlement agreement here.
View the Wellspring settlement agreement here.
View the White River settlement agreement here.
View the WKHL settlement agreement here.
View the Boulder Medical Center settlement agreement here.
View the CCNJ settlement agreement here.
View the Clovis settlement agreement here.
View the Higgins settlement agreement here.
Louisville Man Sentenced to over 11 Years in Federal Prison for Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
Louisville, KY – A Louisville man was sentenced today to 11 years and 7 months in federal prison for distributing and possessing child pornography.
U.S. Attorney Michael A. Bennett of the Western District of Kentucky, Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman, and Special Agent in Charge Robert Holman of the United States Secret Service made the announcement.
“I commend the Secret Service and the Kentucky Attorney General’s Office for their continuing work and partnership in combatting child exploitation throughout the Commonwealth,” said U.S. Attorney Bennett. Federal and state cooperation is crucial to the successful prosecution of those who harm our most vulnerable citizens.”
“Kentucky’s kids will be safer with this predator behind bars,” said Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman. “I’m grateful for the zealous collaboration with our partners at the U.S. Secret Service and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to demonstrate once again the serious consequences for the exploitation of our children.”
Douglas Huelsman, 45, was sentenced to 11 years and 7 months in federal prison, followed by 15 years of supervised release, for one count of distribution and one count of possession of child pornography. According to court documents, Huelsman used an online messaging application to distribute and receive images and videos of child sexual abuse material.
Huelsman was also ordered to pay $36,000 in restitution to multiple victims in the case.
There is no parole in the federal system.
This case was investigated by the Kentucky Office of the Attorney General’s Department of Criminal Investigations and the United States Secret Service.
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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