District of Minnesota
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Three Defendants in Feeding Our Future Fraud Scheme Sentenced to Total of 155 Months’ ImprisonmentRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that three defendants in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme have been sentenced to a total of 155 months in prison for their role in the $250 million fraud scheme that exploited the Federal Child Nutrition Program during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Abdihakim Ali Ahmed, 40, of Apple Valley, Minnesota, was sentenced to 54 months in prison for one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Ahmed was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel on August 26, 2026. He pleaded guilty on March 24, 2025.
Ahmed Abdullahi Ghedi, 35, of Minneapolis, was sentenced to 65 months in prison for one count of wire fraud and one count of money laundering. Ghedi was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel on August 26, 2026. He pleaded guilty on June 26, 2025.
Ahmed Sharif Omar-Hashim, aka “Salah Donyale,” 43, of Minneapolis, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for one count of wire fraud. Omar-Hashim was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel on August 27, 2026. He pleaded guilty on December 13, 2023.
Ahmed, Ghedi, and Omar-Hashim are the 24th, 25th, and 26th defendants, respectively, to be sentenced in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme.
“These sentences represent my office’s commitment to restoring the integrity of publicly funded programs. The Department of Justice will continue to hold accountable those who steal funds meant for vulnerable children and seek accountability for American taxpayers,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“These defendants helped generate outlandish and impossible meal counts at Safari Restaurant and associated sites. The numbers defied reality and exposed a scheme built on wanton greed,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “They stole millions from programs meant to feed children in need, and now they are being held to answer for it. The FBI will continue to follow the evidence, build solid cases with our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, and work closely with our federal counterparts to ensure every fraudster who exploits American taxpayer funded programs is identified, investigated, and brought to justice.”
“These defendants saw a program meant to help Americans through one of the hardest times in recent memory and saw an opportunity to line their own pockets,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “They hid their greed behind a web of fraud, bribery and money laundering, but money leaves a trail. Working shoulder to shoulder with our law enforcement partners, IRS Criminal Investigation special agents unraveled that web, dollar by dollar, and made sure deceit and grift came with a price.”
“The Feeding Our Future investigation reflects the United States Postal Inspection Service’s commitment to holding accountable anyone who abuses the U.S. mail to defraud government programs” said Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division, Bryan Musgrove. “We commend the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minnesota and our other federal partners for the success of this investigation. These sentences should serve as a deterrent to any would be criminals: if you defraud the U.S. Government, you will face serious consequences.”
The case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, IRS Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca E. Kline, Matthew C. Murphy, and Austin L. Bowyer prosecuted these cases. Assistant United States Attorney Craig Baune is handling the seizure and forfeiture of assets.
Note: Previous press release on the three defendants’ indictments (September 20, 2022) linked here.
Serial Child Predator Sentenced to 204 Months’ Imprisonment for Producing Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Christopher Robert Nelson, 45, of Eagan, Minnesota, was sentenced to 204 months in prison with five years of supervised release for the production of child pornography.
According to court documents, on or about January 13, 2023, Nelson knowingly enticed and coerced a then-11-year-old girl to engage in sexually explicit conduct. The defendant communicated with the girl through a messaging application and directed her to send sexually explicit content to him, and he would send money through a peer-to-peer money transfer application.
On September 9, 2023, Nelson returned to the United States from the Philippines and a Customs and Border Patrol agent conducted a border search of the defendant’s phone as his passport was flagged for possible involvement in child sex trafficking. Agents found several videos that appeared to be child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
Following a forensic extraction of Nelson’s phone, agents found approximately 400 images and videos of CSAM. The images and videos found on the defendant’s phone were sent to the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) for victim identification. The NCMEC report revealed 25 known victims across 46 different CSAM series. Law enforcement also found videos on Nelson’s phone depicting children, with ages ranging from eight to twelve years old, from Thailand engaging in sexual acts.
Additionally, law enforcement found messages between Nelson and an individual who claimed to be a mother in the Philippines and on his plans to travel to the country to have sex with children.
Nelson was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Patrick J. Schiltz on August 27, 2026. Nelson previously pleaded guilty on November 12, 2025.
“The defendant is a serial child predator whose heinous actions have created irreparable harm to vulnerable children in the United States and other countries. My office has an unwavering commitment to protect children and bring justice to the victims and their families,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Today, alongside our partners, we stopped a serial sexual abuser from harming children for the next 204 months,” said HSI St. Paul Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “Christopher Nelson’s crimes were monstrous, and they underscore why our work with the Angel Watch Center and our law enforcement partners is so critical. We will keep fighting to bring predators to justice and protect children in our communities and around the world.”
This case was the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations and other law enforcement partners.
Assistant United States Attorney Raphael B. Coburn prosecuted this case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Man Pleads Guilty to Selling and Stealing $4 Million in Embezzled Products from Employer in MinnesotaRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Paul Joseph Kroes, 42, of Shorewood, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud.
His initial appearance and change of plea hearing were before U.S. District Judge Paul A. Magnuson on August 27, 2026. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
From approximately November 2019 to March 2025, Kroes engaged in a scheme to embezzle approximately $4 million from his employer, Victim Company, a retailer of transport temperature control systems for refrigerated trucks and containers. Since 2007, Kroes held several different roles and a variety of responsibilities at the Victim Company, and his last role was as a Product Manager.
Kroes abused his positions and sold Victim Company products to third-party buyers and misappropriated the proceeds for his own personal benefit. Kroes would pull the products himself, or directed another employee to do so, and disguised the missing items from Victim Company’s inventory. Kroes had no authority to sell the products and concealed the payments he received through selling the embezzled products.
“The defendant exploited his access and authority to cause significant financial harm to his employer. Today’s guilty plea is one step closer to holding Kroes accountable for his actions,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Paul Kroes abused his position over multiple years to systematically siphon millions of dollars from his employer. White collar criminals may think they can hide behind clever accounting and their knowledge of internal systems, but financial fraud always leaves a trail,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “The FBI will continue to work shoulder to shoulder with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and law enforcement partners to detect and disrupt fraud.”
This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI.
Assistant United States Attorney Austin L. Bowyer and Rebecca E. Kline are prosecuting the case.
Operator of Minnesota-Based Money Transmitter Charged with Laundering Drug Proceeds for Mexican Cartel Following Homeland Security Task Force InvestigationRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that a federal grand jury in the District of Minnesota returned an indictment on August 20, 2026, charging Christopher A. Bravo Marin, aka Bravo, 46, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, a Mexican national, with conspiring to launder at least $750,000 in drug proceeds on behalf of the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), one of the most prolific and dangerous drug cartels in Mexico.
Bravo was arrested yesterday by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents. He appeared before a U.S. magistrate judge in Minneapolis on August 25, 2026.
“The indictment alleges that this defendant abused his position at a financial institution to help the CJNG cartel launder money from its drug sales back to Mexico,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Cartels rely on financial facilitators to ensure that cartel leadership in Mexico receive the profits from the heinous crimes they perpetrate here in the United States. The Criminal Division is relentless in its mission to take the profit out of crime, including by prosecuting those who help funnel drug proceeds back to cartel management.”
“This defendant strengthened a criminal infrastructure by helping transfer hundreds of thousands of dollars in drug proceeds to cartel leaders,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “My office remains committed to taking down drug trafficking organizations that threaten the public safety of the people of Minnesota.”
“These types of cases are exactly why Homeland Security Task Forces are so important in stopping transnational criminal activity,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard of HSI St. Paul. “They bring a whole-of-government approach to combating serious criminals who commit serious crimes and endanger people in our communities every day. Through coordinated law enforcement partnerships, we are better positioned to disrupt these networks and protect the public.”
According to the indictment, from at least February 2023 to at least February 2026, Bravo, an employee of a Minnesota-based money transmitting business, conspired with members of a CJNG drug distribution cell in Minnesota to launder drug proceeds and transfer them to cartel leaders in Mexico through the money transmitter where he worked. Bravo used his position at the money transmitter and his understanding of his employer’s compliance policies and procedures to evade their anti-money laundering controls and conceal the illicit source of the funds he laundered. Cartel members paid Bravo approximately $40-50 for each transfer that he laundered.
To transfer the funds, Bravo allegedly structured the amount of money to be sent to Mexico across multiple transfers, ensuring that each transfer was always right below $1,000—the money transmitter’s threshold for collecting and verifying a customer’s identification document. Bravo created fake names of Hispanic origin to serve as the senders and sent the money to straw beneficiaries in Mexico whose names he received from cartel members.
After processing the transfers, Bravo forged the signature of the senders on each payment confirmation receipt to make the transfer appear legitimate and texted screenshots of the receipts to his co-conspirators so that the funds could be redeemed in Mexico.
Bravo is charged with one count of conspiracy to engage in money laundering, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Trial Attorney Javier Urbina of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section (MNF) and Assistant United States Attorney Rebecca E. Kline for the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.
HSI St. Paul and the Dakota County Drug Task Force investigated this case.
MNF’s mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations.
MNF’s Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers and employees whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Operator of Minnesota-Based Money Transmitter Charged with Laundering Drug Proceeds for Mexican Cartel Following Homeland Security Task Force InvestigationRead the Press Release
A federal grand jury in the District of Minnesota returned an indictment on Aug. 20, charging Christopher A. Bravo Marin (Bravo), 46, of Minneapolis, Minnesota, a Mexican national, with conspiring to launder at least $750,000 in drug proceeds on behalf of the Cártel de Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), one of the most prolific and dangerous drug cartels in Mexico. Bravo was arrested yesterday by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents. He appeared before a U.S. magistrate judge in Minneapolis today.
“The indictment alleges that this defendant abused his position at a financial institution to help the CJNG cartel launder money from its drug sales back to Mexico,” said Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Cartels rely on financial facilitators to ensure that cartel leadership in Mexico receive the profits from the heinous crimes they perpetrate here in the United States. The Criminal Division is relentless in its mission to take the profit out of crime, including by prosecuting those who help funnel drug proceeds back to cartel management.”
“This defendant strengthened a criminal infrastructure by helping transfer hundreds of thousands of dollars in drug proceeds to cartel leaders,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen for the District of Minnesota. “My office remains committed to taking down drug trafficking organizations that threaten the public safety of the people of Minnesota.”
“These types of cases are exactly why Homeland Security Task Forces are so important in stopping transnational criminal activity,” said Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard of HSI St. Paul. “They bring a whole-of-government approach to combating serious criminals who commit serious crimes and endanger people in our communities every day. Through coordinated law enforcement partnerships, we are better positioned to disrupt these networks and protect the public.”
According to the indictment, from at least February 2023 to at least February 2026, Bravo, an employee of a Minnesota-based money transmitting business, conspired with members of a CJNG drug distribution cell in Minnesota to launder drug proceeds and transfer them to cartel leaders in Mexico through the money transmitter where he worked. Bravo used his position at the money transmitter and his understanding of his employer’s compliance policies and procedures to evade their anti-money laundering controls and conceal the illicit source of the funds he laundered. Cartel members paid Bravo approximately $40-50 for each transfer that he laundered.
To transfer the funds, Bravo allegedly structured the amount of money to be sent to Mexico across multiple transfers, ensuring that each transfer was always right below $1,000 — the money transmitter’s threshold for collecting and verifying a customer’s identification document. Bravo created fake names of Hispanic origin to serve as the senders and sent the money to straw beneficiaries in Mexico whose names he received from cartel members.
After processing the transfers, Bravo forged the signature of the senders on each payment confirmation receipt to make the transfer appear legitimate and texted screenshots of the receipts to his co-conspirators so that the funds could be redeemed in Mexico.
Bravo is charged with one count of conspiracy to engage in money laundering, which carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Trial Attorney Javier Urbina of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section (MNF) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Kline for the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.
HSI St. Paul and the Dakota County Drug Task Force investigated this case.
MNF’s mission is to take the profit out of crime, eliminate drug cartels, and protect the U.S. financial system. MNF pursues criminal prosecutions and criminal and civil asset recovery actions involving: financial facilitators who launder profits for criminals; financial institutions and their officers and employees whose actions threaten the U.S. financial system and financial institutions; international money launderers who support transnational organized crime; and the top command and control of international drug trafficking organizations.
MNF’s Bank Integrity Unit investigates and prosecutes banks and other financial institutions, including their officers, managers and employees whose actions threaten the integrity of the individual institution or the wider financial system.
This case is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of U.S. law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Man Sentenced to 120 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Rodolfo Rebollar-Gonzalez, 29, was sentenced to 120 months in prison for possession of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute.
Rebollar-Gonzalez was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Patrick J. Schiltz on August 25, 2026. He pleaded guilty on April 24, 2026.
According to court documents, on November 21, 2023, police executed a search warrant on the defendant’s apartment in St. Paul, Minnesota. Police forced entry into the apartment and saw Rebollar-Gonzalez holding roughly nine pounds of methamphetamine in his arms. Elsewhere in the apartment, police found roughly two pounds of marijuana and two magazines loaded with 9-millimeter ammunition. The next day, police seized a 9-millimeter pistol and loaded magazine from the defendant’s car.
In February and March 2025, Rebollar-Gonzalez distributed methamphetamine on two occasions. On each occasion, the defendant sold roughly one pound of methamphetamine, once to a confidential informant and once to an undercover Drug Enforcement Administration agent.
Finally, on March 24, 2025, Rebollar-Gonzalez possessed cocaine with the intent to distribute. When police attempted to arrest him, he ran but was caught and arrested within seconds. Police searched the defendant and found roughly one pound of cocaine in his backpack and a digital scale in his back pocket.
Rebollar-Gonzalez was not in the United States legally when he committed these crimes.
“My office is committed to getting dangerous drug traffickers off the streets and stopping the flow of illegal narcotics into the state. Today’s sentence is a significant step toward disrupting these pipelines and safeguarding public safety for the people of Minnesota,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“This investigation is a clear example of what can be accomplished when agencies work together to identify and dismantle drug trafficking organizations that are bringing deadly drugs into our communities. The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office West Metro Drug Task Force and our federal partners at the DEA first identified Rebollar-Gonzalez as part of a drug trafficking investigation in 2023, resulting in the seizure of nine pounds of methamphetamine and a pistol. Less than two years later, our investigators received information that he was again trafficking drugs, leading to another investigation and the seizure of additional cocaine,” said Dawanna Witt, Sheriff of Hennepin County. “These investigations take time, but the results are clear: getting dangerous drug traffickers and cartel members off our streets saves lives and makes our communities safer. Now we must hold Rebollar-Gonzalez accountable. I remain committed to the strong partnerships that allow us to pursue these cases and dismantle the criminal organizations wreaking havoc in our communities.”
“Few things pose a greater threat to public safety than illegal methamphetamine flooding our communities,” said HSI St. Paul Special Agent in Charge Travis Pickard. “This sentence holds the defendant accountable for trafficking a highly addictive, destructive drug that fuels crime, devastates families and tears at the fabric of our neighborhoods. HSI and our partners will continue to aggressively target those who profit from addiction and bring them to justice.”
“Rodolfo is a repeat offender who squandered an opportunity to turn away from a life of drug trafficking,” DEA Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie said. “Instead, he opted to double down, moving large quantities of methamphetamine around the Twin Cities. Today’s sentencing now forces Rodolfo to be accountable for his crimes and respect the rule of law.”
This case was the result of an investigation by the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, the Hennepin County West Metro Drug Task Force, Homeland Security Investigation, with assistance from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and other local law enforcement partners.
Assistant United States Attorney Campbell Warner prosecuted the case.
California Man Sentenced to 36 Months’ Imprisonment for Defrauding Former Employer, Optum, Inc.Read the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Karan Gupta, 48, of Walnut Creek, California, was sentenced to 36 months in prison for one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, ten counts of wire fraud, and one count of conspiracy to commit money laundering.
Gupta was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Kate M. Menendez on August 24, 2026. He had previously been found guilty on February 17, 2026, following a six-day jury trial.
According to court documents and evidence introduced at trial, between 2015 and 2020, Gupta led a scheme to defraud his employer, Optum, Inc., by creating a no-show job for his lifelong friend, Shangraf Kaul, 45, of East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania, as a data engineering manager and pocketing over half of Kaul’s salary as a kickback.
Gupta, who was a senior director at Optum, hired Kaul to work on his team in late 2015, despite Kaul’s lack of qualifications for the position. For over three years, Kaul performed no work at Optum while collecting a six-figure salary. Gupta, as Kaul’s supervisor, facilitated Kaul’s no-show employment and demanded Kaul pay him approximately 60% of his unearned salary in kickbacks. Gupta then devised a plan for him and Kaul to conceal the kickback payments, first through cash deposits into Gupta’s own bank account, then through a designated checking account to which Gupta had access.
Gupta’s fraud was ultimately discovered by Optum after his termination from the company in November 2019 for engaging in a similar no-show employee fraud. Optum investigated and referred the case to federal law enforcement. In total, Gupta’s fraud against Optum totaled more than $950,000.
Gupta’s co-conspirator, Kaul, pleaded guilty on February 26, 2025, to one count of conspiracy to commit wire fraud and is currently awaiting sentencing.
“Defrauding a private company is not a victimless crime. Gupta’s actions ultimately undermine a healthcare provider that millions of Americans depend on, and today’s sentencing reflects the seriousness of his crimes,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“The FBI is committed to investigating complex fraud schemes that exploit trust and defraud victims through deliberate deception, including schemes in which the defendant creates a no-show position at the very company that employs him, using that position to victimize his own employer. The jury’s verdict and today’s sentencing demonstrate the seriousness with which our justice system treats fraud,” said FBI Minneapolis Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “The FBI, in strong partnership with the U.S. Attorney’s Office, is sending a clear message that those who use their positions of trust to orchestrate sophisticated schemes, conceal criminal proceeds, and defraud the companies that employ them will be held accountable.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI.
Assistant United States Attorneys Matthew D. Forbes and Rebecca E. Kline prosecuted the case.
Note: Previous press release on Gupta’s guilty verdict here.
Veterans Affairs Nurse Indicted for Stealing OpioidsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Steve Michael Kelley, 58, a former nurse who worked at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Minneapolis, was indicted by grand jury for one count of obtaining controlled substances by misrepresentation, fraud, forgery, deception, or subterfuge. His initial appearance was before U.S. Magistrate Judge Elsa M. Bullard on August 21, 2026.
According to the indictment, Kelley is alleged to have wrongfully obtained hydromorphone, a controlled substance, from in or about January 2025 through on or about January 28, 2026.
This case resulted from an investigation by the Department of Veterans Affairs Office of the Inspector General, the Veterans Affairs Police Department, the Food and Drug Administration Office of Criminal Investigations, and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Assistant United States Attorney Campbell Warner is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
San Antonio Man Sentenced to 256 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in the Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Michael Salas, 52, of San Antonio, was sentenced to 256 months in prison for his role in the production and attempted production of child pornography.
According to court documents, in March 2025, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children and law enforcement received anonymous information that an eleven-year-old girl was being blackmailed over social media into sending sexual photographs of herself. The internet account was traced back to Salas, a then-fifty-one-year-old man in San Antonio, Texas. On or about March 9, 2025, after Salas pressed the minor female victim, she sent a video to Salas. After receiving that video, Salas still requested more explicit material from the victim.
Salas was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Eric C. Tostrud on August 18, 2026. Salas previously pleaded guilty on February 11, 2026.
During the hearing, Judge Tostrud described the offense conduct in this case as “depraved, cruel, and contemptable,” noting that the consequences to the victim may be “life long, life altering, and severe.”
“No sentence can fully heal the harm that this defendant has done to this young girl and her family, but it will hold this repeat and dangerous sex offender accountable for his actions,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“From the comfort of his home in San Antonio, Texas, Michael Salas engaged in a months-long campaign to sexually exploit an 11-year-old child in Minnesota. When caught, he attempted to take his own life. Thankfully, the FBI Special Agents who arrested him were successful in their lifesaving efforts,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “Today’s sentence shows that no matter the distance, the FBI will make every effort to seek justice for child victims. Child sexual exploitation creates long-lasting trauma for victims, so it rightly carries long-lasting criminal consequences for offenders.”
“Today’s sentencing reflects the strength of collaboration between our local officers and our federal partners. By combining resources, expertise, and a shared commitment to public safety, we were able to bring this case forward effectively and ensure accountability. We remain dedicated to working together to protect our community,” said Plymouth Police Chief and Public Safety Director Erik Fadden.
This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI, New Hope Police Department, Plymouth Police Department, with assistance from other law enforcement partners.
Assistant United States Attorney Albania Concepcion prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Mankato Man Pleads Guilty to Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Alex James Wall, 39, of Mankato, Minnesota, pleaded guilty to receiving child pornography. Wall’s change of plea hearing was before U.S. District Judge Donovan W. Frank on August 18, 2026. Wall will be facing a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison.
According to court documents, between April 14, 2023, and March 6, 2025, Wall attempted to entice and coerce a 14-to-15-year-old girl to engage in sexually explicit conduct to produce child pornography.
“There is no higher priority for my office than to protect vulnerable children. Today’s guilty plea is an important step towards justice for the child victims and their families,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Alex Wall, a registered sex offender, again sexually abused and exploited a child and recorded that abuse for his own purposes,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “Any child sexual abuse is abhorrent, but offenses committed by repeat offenders are particularly deserving of the significant consequences for these crimes under federal law. This investigation demonstrates that the FBI and our partners are dedicated to finding justice for child victims and their affected families.”
This case was the result of an investigation by the Mankato Department of Public Safety, FBI, with assistance from other law enforcement partners.
Assistant United States Attorney David M. Classen is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Lakeville Man is 23rd Defendant to be Sentenced in Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Abdinasir Mahamed Abshir, 34, of Lakeville, Minnesota, was sentenced to 78 months in prison for his role in a $250 million fraud scheme that exploited the Federal Child Nutrition Program during the COVID‑19 pandemic. Abshir is the 23rd defendant to be sentenced in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme.
The sentence also reflects Abshir’s effort to tamper with a cooperating trial witness on February 18, 2025. During the trial of his co-defendants in United States v. Aimee Bock and Salim Said, Abshir obstructed justice when he approached a cooperating witness prior to his scheduled testimony.
Abshir was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Nancy E. Brasel on August 18, 2026. Abshir previously pleaded guilty on March 7, 2025.
“Today’s sentence makes clear that justice is not for sale, and those who try to buy their way out of accountability will not succeed. Our office is committed to protecting American taxpayer funds,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“The sentence imposed on Abdinasir Abshir reflects accountability not only for his role in a massive fraud scheme, but also for his deliberate attempt to undermine the integrity of the judicial process,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “Witness tampering is an attack on the foundation of our justice system because it seeks to obstruct the truth and interfere with the fair administration of justice. Today’s sentence makes clear that such conduct carries serious consequences. The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to protecting witnesses, safeguarding the integrity of our courts, and ensuring that those who commit fraud are held fully accountable.”
“Abshir and his co-conspirators stole from a program meant to feed children while families were struggling, then tried to use money to corrupt the justice system,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge of the IRS Criminal Investigation Chicago Field Office. “Justice isn’t for sale, and IRS Criminal Investigation will hold accountable those who think their money puts them beyond its reach.”
“Mr. Abshir’s guilty plea reflects the outstanding investigative teamwork by the Postal Inspection Service and our federal law enforcement partners,” said Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division Bryan Musgrove. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to holding white-collar criminals accountable for abusing the U.S. mail to facilitate fraudulent schemes.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI with assistance from IRS Criminal Investigation, and the U.S. Postal Inspection Service.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca E. Kline and Matthew C. Murphy prosecuted the case.
Note: Previous press releases on Abshir’s guilty plea (March 7, 2025) and indictment (September 20, 2022) linked here.
Man Sentenced to 260 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy Linked to Sinaloa CartelRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Eric Anthony Rodriguez, 47, was sentenced to 260 months in prison for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine.
According to court documents and the record at trial, Rodriguez conspired with other co-defendants to acquire and distribute hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine. Led and organized by Erick Emilio Diaz-Aguilar, the “Diaz-Aguilar Drug Trafficking Organization (DTO)” operated and distributed methamphetamine throughout Minnesota from April 2024 to March 2025. During a nearly year-long investigation, law enforcement seized approximately sixty pounds of methamphetamine, 1,500 fentanyl pills, and more than $20,000 from various individuals associated with the Diaz-Aguilar-DTO. Additional evidence showed that the Diaz-Aguilar DTO was affiliated with the Sinaloa Cartel, a Transnational Criminal Organization (TCO).
Rodriguez was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Susan R. Nelson on August 13, 2026. He previously was convicted by a jury on February 10, 2026. Judge Nelson indicated that the sentence reflected Rodriguez’s role as a “crucial workhorse” in the organization. Judge Nelson also noted that the sentence was based on the harm methamphetamine causes to Minnesota communities through addiction and overdose deaths.
“Today’s sentencing reflects my office’s commitment to holding drug traffickers accountable. Rodriguez played a significant role in a conspiracy that pushed methamphetamine across Minnesota, and this sentence reflects the seriousness of his actions,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“The Olmsted County Sheriff's Office and the Southeast Minnesota Violent Crime Enforcement Team (SEMVCET) work collaboratively with local, state, and federal agencies to disrupt and dismantle Drug Trafficking Organizations. This case is one example of positive outcomes achieved when working together. Minnesota and beyond are safer with these dangerous drugs off the streets and the suspects held accountable,” said Tim Parkin, Captain of the Olmsted County Sheriff's Office and Commander of the Southeast Minnesota Violent Crime Enforcement Team.
“Eric Rodriguez’s drug trafficking efforts in Minnesota serve as a reminder of how the Sinaloa Cartel continues to attempt making inroads into our communities,” DEA Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie said. “These weren’t small amounts of methamphetamine that he was moving into and around Minnesota. These were hundreds of pounds of methamphetamine and fentanyl that carry life-altering consequences to those who roll the dice by using these substances.”
“This investigation represents two years of dedicated work by BCA agents and our law enforcement partners to stop the distribution of methamphetamine in our communities,” said Drew Evans, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension superintendent. “The effects of methamphetamine reach far beyond those who use it, impacting families, increasing crime and placing additional demands on our health care system. We will continue working together to disrupt drug trafficking and prevent further harm.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Olmsted County Sheriff’s Office, Southeast Minnesota Violent Crime Enforcement Team, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Minnesota State Patrol, Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Chisago County Sheriff’s Office, East Central Minnesota Drug Task Force, Hastings Police Department, Rochester Police Department, Cannon River Drug Task Force, and the New Prague Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorneys Raphael B. Coburn and William C. Mattessich prosecuted the case.
Note: Previous press releases on Rodriguez’s indictment (April 8, 2025) and jury conviction (February 17, 2026) linked here.
Minneapolis Man Indicted for Coercion and Enticement of a Minor to Engage in Sexual ActivityRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Ted Matthew Bennett, 58, of Minneapolis, has been indicted by a grand jury for his alleged role in knowingly persuading, inducing, enticing, and coercing a minor to engage in sexual activity from on or about January 1, 2025, through on or about November 11, 2025.
Bennett had his initial appearance hearing before U.S. Magistrate Judge Shannon G. Elkins on August 10, 2026.
According to state court documents, on November 10, 2025, police responded to a Ramsey County high school regarding a report of an alleged inappropriate relationship between a teacher and student. Law enforcement’s investigation revealed that Bennett groomed and communicated with a minor student for months via text messages and emails. Text messages recovered during the investigation showed that Bennett repeatedly offered the minor student alcohol and drugs, and that Bennett and the minor student engaged in sexual activity on at least one occasion.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office and U.S. Secret Service.
Assistant United States Attorney Evan Gilead is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Justice Department to Conduct Election Monitoring in Minnesota Primary ElectionRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – Today, the Department of Justice is monitoring polling sites in two Minnesota counties for the state’s primary election to ensure transparency, ballot security, and compliance with federal law.
“Minnesota is DOJ’s next stop on its nationwide effort to ensure free and fair elections,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The DOJ is committed to nondiscriminatory monitoring throughout the primary and general election seasons.”
“Election monitoring is critical to ensuring our elections have the trust of Minnesotans,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen for the District of Minnesota. “We are proud to partner with the Civil Rights Division in this effort.”
The DOJ, through the Civil Rights Division, enforces federal voting laws which protect the voting rights of all eligible citizens. The DOJ regularly deploys staff to monitor compliance with federal civil rights laws in communities across the country, as it did in Minnesota in the 2020, 2022, and 2024 federal elections.
The DOJ is monitoring polls in Hennepin and Ramsey counties with approximately 20 staff from the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section and Minnesota’s U.S. Attorney’s Office. Already this primary season the DOJ has deployed over 50 monitors across seven counties.
This monitoring initiative is aimed at promoting transparency and an open flow of communication between poll observers and election monitors. The Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section enforces various federal statutes that protect the right to vote, including the Voting Rights Act, National Voter Registration Act, Help America Vote Act, Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Civil Rights Acts.
From now through the general election on November 3, 2026, Civil Rights Division personnel will be available to receive questions and complaints from the public related to federal voting rights laws. If you have a question or complaint or would like to request election monitoring in a particular jurisdiction, please contact the Voting Section at [email protected].
Justice Department to Conduct Election Monitoring in Minnesota Primary ElectionRead the Press Release
Today, the Department of Justice (“DOJ”) is monitoring polling sites in two Minnesota counties for the state’s primary election to ensure transparency, ballot security, and compliance with federal law.
“Minnesota is DOJ’s next stop on its nationwide effort to ensure free and fair elections,” said Assistant Attorney General Harmeet K. Dhillon of the Justice Department’s Civil Rights Division. “The DOJ is committed to nondiscriminatory monitoring throughout the primary and general election seasons.”
“Election monitoring is critical to ensuring our elections have the trust of Minnesotans,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen for the District of Minnesota. “We are proud to partner with the Civil Rights Division in this effort.”
The DOJ, through the Civil Rights Division, enforces federal voting laws which protect the voting rights of all eligible citizens. The DOJ regularly deploys staff to monitor compliance with federal civil rights laws in communities across the country, as it did in Minnesota in the 2020, 2022, and 2024 federal elections.
The DOJ is monitoring polls in Hennepin and Ramsey counties with approximately 20 staff from the Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section and Minnesota’s U.S. Attorney’s Office. Already this primary season the DOJ has deployed over 50 monitors across seven counties.
This monitoring initiative is aimed at promoting transparency and an open flow of communication between poll observers and election monitors. The Civil Rights Division’s Voting Section enforces various federal statutes that protect the right to vote, including the Voting Rights Act, National Voter Registration Act, Help America Vote Act, Uniformed and Overseas Citizens Absentee Voting Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, and the Civil Rights Acts.
From now through the general election on Nov. 3, Civil Rights Division personnel will be available to receive questions and complaints from the public related to federal voting rights laws. If you have a question or complaint or would like to request election monitoring in a particular jurisdiction, please contact the Voting Section at [email protected].
United States Attorney Meets with Community and Leaders in the Red Lake Indian Reservation and Beltrami CountyRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen and members of the U.S. Attorney’s Office completed a two‑day visit to Beltrami County and the Red Lake Indian Reservation on August 4 and 5, 2026. The visit included a series of meetings with county officials, federal partners, tribal leadership, community members, and the Red Lake Department of Public Safety to discuss public safety across northern Minnesota and to strengthen coordination between tribal, federal, and local agencies.
During the visit with the Beltrami County Attorney’s Office, United States Attorney Rosen met with County Attorney David Hanson and local law enforcement officials, including Chief Assistant County Attorney David Frank, Sheriff Jason Riggs, and Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force Commander David Hart. Officials described narcotics trafficking entering the region from the Twin Cities and other areas, and discussed broader socioeconomic conditions influencing public safety, including Beltrami County’s poverty rate of 16.1 percent, among the highest in Minnesota.
United States Attorney Rosen noted that his office has seen a tremendous number of extraordinarily qualified lawyers desiring to serve in the District of Minnesota. The office now has even more Assistant United States Attorneys than when he assumed office in October 2025, reaffirming that the United States Attorney’s Office is in a strong position to support county and tribal partners. Local officials recognized AUSAs Raphael Coburn and Garrett S. Fields for their work on complex and high‑impact cases.
Following this meeting, United States Attorney Rosen visited the FBI’s Bemidji Resident Agency, which covers most of northwest Minnesota and the Red Lake Indian Reservation. There, agents provided a briefing on active investigations and enforcement priorities affecting both county and tribal jurisdictions. These discussions focused on violent crime, narcotics trafficking, and interagency coordination.
United States Attorney Rosen then traveled to the Red Lake Indian Reservation for a consultation with tribal executive leadership. Joining him at Red Lake were FBI Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson, along with Chairman Darrell G. Seki, Sr., Tribal Secretary Robert L. May, members of the Tribal Council, and officials from the Red Lake Police Department, including Red Lake Nation Public Safety Director Kendall Kingbird, Sr.
Tribal leaders raised urgent public safety concerns, including violent crime, drug trafficking, and the disproportionate impact of violence on women and children. Tribal Secretary May spoke candidly about longstanding community needs and communicated a strong desire to further strengthen the relationship with the United States Attorney’s Office.
United States Attorney Rosen affirmed the United States Attorney’s Office’s long‑term dedication to prosecute crimes on the reservation, stating, “One of the things that I have made very clear in our office is that whatever the past treatment may or may not have been of crimes in Indian Country and the United States Attorney’s Office, it is now at the highest level of priority in our office.” FBI Special Agent in Charge Dotson later emphasized the FBI’s shared focus, noting, “I can tell you that in this office, we are synced up with the United States Attorney’s Office. Making our tribal lands safer is a priority for the FBI… and this kind of collaboration is critical to success.”
United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen meeting with Beltrami County Attorney’s Office and Red Lake Tribal Council
A subsequent community meeting allowed residents to voice concerns regarding cases, jurisdictional questions, and matters that have had especially significant impacts on families. Community members sought clarity on how federal and tribal agencies divide investigative responsibilities. United States Attorney Rosen and Red Lake Department of Public Safety representatives addressed these questions and reiterated efforts to improve communication and transparency.
United States Attorney Rosen’s team concluded the visit with additional discussions with the Red Lake Department of Public Safety regarding coordination on active cases, resource needs, and ongoing collaboration aimed at reducing violent crime and drug trafficking.
Joining the visit were First Assistant United States Attorney Joseph S. Teirab, Assistant United States Attorneys Mary Riverso and Dana Joseph, Tribal Victim Assistance Specialist Krysta Gordon, and Public Affairs Specialist Hoang Bui.
Federal Jury Finds Robert Ivers Guilty on All Counts in Threats Against United States Judge and Trial WitnessRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that a federal jury has found Robert Phillip Ivers, 73, of Wayzata, Minnesota, guilty on two counts of mailing threatening communications, and one count of threatening to murder a United States District Judge. The mailings included threats to kill a witness and the judge who presided over the defendant’s 2018 federal criminal trial, in which the defendant was found guilty of threatening to murder another federal judge. See United States v. Ivers, Case No. 18-cr-90 (JMM).
The verdict follows a multi‑day trial in U.S. District Court from August 4 to 7, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Karen E. Schreier.
“Today’s outcome reaffirms the strength of our justice system in the face of intimidation. Those who seek to retaliate against witnesses or judges with threats of violence will be held fully accountable,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
According to court documents, the defendant mailed a manifesto titled “How to Kill a Federal Judge” to a Minneapolis law firm and the University of St. Thomas. The manifesto contained graphic threats of violence against the witness and judge involved in the defendant’s previous criminal trial, federal judges generally, and the victims’ children.
The investigation was conducted by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, United States Marshals Service, United States Supreme Court Police, United States Secret Service, Wayzata Police Department, and Saint Paul Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorneys Bradley M. Endicott and William C. Mattessich prosecuted the case.
Note: Previous press releases on the charges and indictment here.
Six Defendants Sentenced to Total of 540 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in Conspiracy to Distribute Nearly 30 Kilograms of Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Amanda Jennifer Freeman was sentenced for her role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. Freeman was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Michael J. Davis on August 4, 2026. Freeman is the sixth and final defendant to be sentenced in United States v. Shiloe Devanglo Nixon et al. The six defendants were sentenced to a total of 540 months in prison.
Together, the actions of these individuals enabled a large‑scale flow of fentanyl pills from Arizona into Minnesota. Their roles included sourcing and transporting drugs to storing and redistributing them, forming a coordinated operation responsible for nearly 30 kilograms of fentanyl pills intended for distribution throughout Minnesota and elsewhere.
The defendants received the following sentences:
- Shiloe Devanglo Nixon, 37, of Woodbury, Minnesota: 180 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release for role in conspiracy to distribute fentanyl
- Malik Deronte Nixon, 30, of Woodbury, Minnesota: 180 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release for role in conspiracy to distribute fentanyl
- Ernesto Alexis Seals, 28, of Welch, Minnesota: 120 months’ imprisonment with five years of supervised release for role in conspiracy to distribute fentanyl
- Justin Keith Banks, 37, of Rush City, Minnesota: 60 months’ imprisonment with four years of supervised release for role in conspiracy to distribute fentanyl
- Amanda Jennifer Freeman, 38, of St. Paul, Minnesota: time served with two years of supervised releasefor role in conspiracy to distribute fentanyl
- Zakiya Niajoneu Whitney, 25, of San Tan Valley, Arizona: time served with two years of supervised release for role in conspiracy to distribute fentanyl
According to court documents, beginning in September 2023 and continuing through on or about March 2024, Shiloe Nixon and Malik Nixon, conspired to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. Shiloe Nixon and Malik Nixon enlisted others to bring fentanyl pills from their source in Arizona to the Twin Cities. Once the pills arrived in the Twin Cities, the Nixons distributed them to lower-level dealers, who then distributed the pills to others.
On February 5, 2024, the Nixons received a shipment of fentanyl pills from Freeman, who drove the pills from Arizona to the Twin Cities and stored the pills at a rental home in St. Paul, Minnesota. The next day, police executed a search warrant of the rental home and seized almost 9.7 kilograms of fentanyl pills.
Roughly a month later, a New Mexico State Police trooper stopped Whitney’s car on Interstate 40. Whitney consented to a search of her car, and the trooper seized roughly 10 kilograms of fentanyl pills. Those pills were supposed to be delivered to the Nixons and were intended for further distribution in Minnesota.
Finally, just weeks after the New Mexico seizure, Shiloe Nixon and Malik Nixon were driving back to Minnesota from Phoenix where they had picked up roughly 9.7 kilograms of fentanyl pills from their source. A Minnesota State Patrol trooper stopped the Nixons’ car, searched it, and found the pills divided among nine clear plastic bags and concealed in a backpack.
In addition to the Nixons, Freeman, and Whitney, co-conspirators in the operation included Ernesto Seals, and Justin Banks.
From September 2023 through November 2023, Ernesto Seals was regularly supplied with fentanyl pills that he distributed to others. On November 7, 2023, police executed a search warrant of Seals’ home and found a .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol that he possessed in connection with his fentanyl distribution.
From October 2023 through November 2023, Justin Banks obtained fentanyl pills from his supplier and distributed them to his customers.
Shiloe Nixon, Malik Nixon, and Banks had multiple prior felony convictions. Shiloe Nixon’s criminal history includes a 2014 conviction for first-degree aggravated robbery, a 2013 conviction for third-degree burglary, and a 2009 conviction for first-degree aggravated robbery. Malik Nixon’s criminal history includes a 2017 conviction for second-degree aggravated robbery and a 2016 conviction for third-degree assault. Banks has a 2015 conviction for aiding and abetting the solicitation of a person under the age of 18 years to practice prostitution, a 2015 conviction for felony theft, and a 2013 conviction for domestic assault by strangulation.
“These sentences demonstrate my office’s commitment to investigate and take down fentanyl trafficking operations. The coordinated efforts of our law enforcement partners ensured that those responsible were prosecuted and held accountable,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“A priority of the Dakota County Drug Task Force is to hold accountable those who choose to distribute fentanyl in our communities. This case highlights the dedication of our agents and federal partners in investigating and prosecuting those who traffic this deadly drug. The Task Force would like to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their collaboration and commitment to this case,” said Captain Joshua Fahey, Commander of the Dakota County Drug Task Force.
“The sentencing in this case reflects the serious consequences of trafficking dangerous narcotics into our communities. The Minnesota State Patrol is proud of the professionalism and dedication demonstrated by our troopers, whose work contributed to the successful seizure of a significant quantity of fentanyl pills and supported our federal law enforcement partners in holding those responsible accountable. This outcome is a testament to the value of strong partnerships between local, state and federal law enforcement and our shared commitment to protecting the public from the devastating impact of illicit drugs,” said Colonel Christina Bogojevic, Chief of the Minnesota State Patrol.
“This was a sizable load of fentanyl that could have caused tremendous harm in our communities. I’m proud of the work our officers did and grateful for our partnership with the Department of Justice in Minnesota and all the law enforcement agencies involved. The New Mexico State Police always has, and will continue to, work alongside our law enforcement partners across state lines to hold traffickers accountable and keep these deadly drugs off our streets,” said New Mexico State Police Chief Matthew Broom.
“Drug trafficking conspiracies are built on individual choices, and every person who agrees to play a part helps move dangerous drugs closer to our communities,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Matthew Olson of the ATF St. Paul Field Division. “After years in law enforcement, I have seen how quickly one bad decision can alter the course of a life. With all defendants now sentenced, we remain committed to working with our federal and local partners to disrupt the flow of fentanyl into Minnesota.”
“Nearly 30 kilograms of fentanyl pills represents an extraordinary threat to public safety. Thanks to the outstanding work of investigators and prosecutors, that threat was stopped before it could cause further devastation in Minnesota communities,” said Michael McCarthy, Special Agent in Charge of HSI St. Paul. “I commend our federal, state, and local partners for their tireless efforts to dismantle this operation and protect the public from the lethal impact of fentanyl.”
This case was the result of an investigation by Homeland Security Investigations, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, the Dakota County Drug Task Force, the Minnesota State Patrol, the New Mexico State Police, the Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport Police Department, and other law enforcement partners.
Assistant United States Attorney Campbell Warner prosecuted the case.
Note: This press release was updated on August 7, 2026, to correct the name of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives.
Red Lake Man Sentenced to 63 Months in Prison for Violent Assault Against Intimate Partner and Vulnerable ChildRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Mason Alexander Bullhead, 30, of Red Lake, was sentenced to 63 months in prison for his violent assault against his then‑girlfriend and her three‑year‑old child.
Bullhead was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Patrick J. Schiltz on August 3, 2026.
According to court documents, on May 4, 2024, Bullhead assaulted the child inside the family home. He struck the child repeatedly and kicked him while wearing steel‑toed boots. When the child’s mother attempted to intervene to protect her son, Bullhead assaulted her as well. He threatened her, stating, “I should just kill you,” before placing his hands around her neck and strangling her, impairing her ability to breathe.
In February 2026, Bullhead pleaded guilty to one count of assault upon a child resulting in substantial bodily injury and one count of strangling an intimate partner.
“Domestic violence will not be tolerated. Today’s sentencing is another example of my office’s unwavering commitment to maintaining public safety,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI and the Red Lake Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney Garrett S. Fields prosecuted the case.
Red Lake Man Sentenced to 72 Months’ Imprisonment for Receiving Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Justyce Edward Lussier was sentenced to 72 months’ imprisonment for receiving child pornography.
Lussier was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Jerry W. Blackwell on July 30, 2026.
Court documents show that between 2023 and 2024, Lussier solicited and received pornographic images of a minor under the age of 16, and on at least two occasions, he contributed to the production of child pornography.
“This sentence cannot undo the harm the defendant caused, but it delivered justice. My office will spare no resources to protect children and prosecute those who prey on them,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“The FBI responds with urgency to allegations involving the exploitation of children, and this case demonstrates how swift investigative action can protect victims and prevent further harm,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “We recognize the resilience of the victim and the significant impact these offenses have on families and the broader community. The FBI, together with the Red Lake Tribal Police Department, the Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force, and the U.S. Attorney’s Office, remains firmly committed to pursuing justice, safeguarding children, and holding offenders accountable for their actions.”
This case is the result of an investigation by the FBI, Headwaters Safe Trails Task Force, Red Lake Tribal Police Department, with assistance from other local law enforcement partners.
Special Assistant United States Attorney Nicholas Grey prosecuted the case.
Man Pleads Guilty to Coercion and Enticement of a MinorRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Jeffrey Thomas Simon, 39, pleaded guilty to coercion and enticement of a minor.
Simon pleaded guilty before U.S. District Judge Jerry W. Blackwell on July 30, 2026, and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison.
According to court documents, between on or about August 2023 to January 2025, Simon knowingly used a messaging application to persuade, include, entice, and coerce a minor to engage in sexual activity. Throughout this time, Simon knowingly coerced Victim 1, who in August 2023 was a 13-year-old female, to engage in sexual activity. Simon additionally said to Victim 1 that if she ever left or reported him, that he would kill either himself or her. In January 2025, the parent of Victim 1 contacted law enforcement again to now report that Simon had sexually assaulted Victim 1.
When investigators searched Simon’s phone, they found additional conversations on a messaging application between him and other persons who self-identified as minor females.
“There is no higher priority than protecting children, and today’s guilty plea highlights my office’s unwavering commitment to ensuring offenders are held accountable,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Anoka County Sheriff's Office, North Saint Paul Police Department, Roseville Police Department, Fridley Police Department, FBI, with assistance from other local law enforcement partners.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristian Weir is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Registered Sex Offender Pleads Guilty to Production and Attempted Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Christopher Allan Amelsberg, 36, of Minneapolis, pleaded guilty to the production and attempted production of child pornography.
Amelsberg pleaded guilty before Chief U.S. District Judge Eric C. Tostrud on July 27, 2026. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date, and Amelsberg faces a statutory minimum sentence of 25 years’ imprisonment.
According to court documents, Amelsberg admitted that between August 2023 through around May 2026, he used text messaging and other internet-based social media and communication applications to engage female minor victims in sexually focused conversations for the purposes of producing or attempting to produce child pornography.
In one case, from August 2025 to October 2025, Amelsberg used online messaging platforms to engage in sexually focused conversations and to solicit and direct Minor Victim 1, of whom Amelsberg knew was 15 years old at the time, to produce videos and images of Minor Victim 1 performing sexually explicit conduct.
Amelsberg knowingly persuaded, induced, enticed, and coerced multiple victims between the ages of 14 and 17 years old and admitted to “trading” lascivious or sexually explicit images of children. The United States has identified a total of at least 12 minor victims of whom Amelsberg solicited and enticed, or attempted to solicit and entice, to produce child pornography and engage in unlawful sexual acts.
At the time of this conduct, Amelsberg was on the Minnesota Predatory Offender Registry due to his prior conviction for possession of child pornography.
“Amelsberg is a child predator, and today’s plea is an important step towards justice for the victims and families he harmed,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Protecting children is our office’s highest priority, and we will continue working with federal and local law enforcement to hold accountable those who prey on them.”
“Identifying and holding online predators accountable for their actions is one of the BCA’s highest priorities,” said Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “Predators like Amelsberg target the most vulnerable members of our society, our children. We must do everything we can to stop them, bring them to justice, and support the victims and families whose lives they have forever changed.”
“For years, and while being a registered sex offender, Christopher Amelsberg sexually exploited at least a dozen children from his home in Minneapolis,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “Even after a previous state conviction for possessing child sexual abuse material, this defendant did not learn his lesson. Federal charges for child sexual exploitation come with significant mandatory minimum penalties to hold child predators accountable. The FBI, BCA, and our law enforcement partners around Minnesota have and will continue to work together tirelessly to stop child predators, rescue child victims from abuse and exploitation, and help victims on their path to recovery.”
Investigators believe there may be additional child victims of Amelsberg’s online sexual exploitation activity. If you or your child has information about online exploitation committed by Christopher Allan Amelsberg, please call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (800-225-5324) or submit information to tips.fbi.gov.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension and the FBI Minneapolis Division with assistance from the Minneapolis Police Department.
This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Austin L. Bowyer.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorney’s Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Red Lake Man Sentenced to 41 Months’ Imprisonment for Domestic Assault by a Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Allen Robert Cloud, 46, has been sentenced to 41 months’ imprisonment for domestic assault by a habitual offender. Cloud was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Judge Eric C. Tostrud on July 23, 2026.
According to court documents, on July 11, 2025, Cloud violently assaulted his long‑term partner, Victim 1, on the Red Lake Indian Reservation. After locating Victim 1 at a neighbor’s home, where she had been hiding from him, Cloud pushed her, kicked her, and pulled her hair. Cloud then forced Victim 1 to leave the neighbor’s house and prevented her from escaping. When Cloud fell asleep, Victim 1 again attempted to flee, but Cloud chased her down and struck Victim 1 on the head with a piece of concrete. Emergency medical services later arranged for Victim 1 to be airlifted to a nearby hospital.
Prior to the July 2025 assault, Cloud had at least five Tribal Court convictions for Criminal Domestic Violence and Stalking involving domestic assaults committed between April 2010 and April 2023, all involving Victim 1.
Cloud pleaded guilty in December 2025 to one count of domestic assault by a habitual offender resulting in substantial bodily harm.
“The courage of victims to seek assistance in domestic assault situations is critical to holding offenders accountable. My office remains committed to preventing domestic violence and safeguarding those who have been victimized,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
This case was investigated by the Red Lake Police Department and the FBI.
Assistant United States Attorney Garrett S. Fields prosecuted the case.
Inver Grove Heights Man Sentenced to 54 Months’ Imprisonment for Being a Felon in Possession of Stolen FirearmsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Raul Gutierrez, Jr., 33, of Inver Grove Heights, was sentenced to 54 months’ imprisonment for being a felon in possession of firearms. He was sentenced before U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim on July 27, 2026.
According to court documents, on January 14, 2026, Gutierrez participated in a violent civil disturbance in Minneapolis where he and others broke into a vehicle belonging to the FBI. When his accomplice arrived, the vehicle was already extensively damaged, and the rear hatch was open. The accomplice broke into a vault in the cargo area of the vehicle and removed a rifle bag and a satchel of ammunition. The bag contained a semiautomatic rifle and a silencer, both of which are firearms under federal law. The accomplice gave the bag to Gutierrez, who took it to his car and drove away. Gutierrez abandoned the firearms a short time later, and his accomplice took the firearms to his home.
Before Gutierrez possessed the rifle and silencer, he had been convicted of burglary of a building in Dunn County, Wisconsin, and domestic assault-strangulation in Ramsey County, Minnesota. Both of those are felony convictions that barred Gutierrez from possessing firearms.
“Today’s sentencing reflects my office’s commitment to taking dangerous individuals off the streets and protecting the people of Minnesota. Stealing FBI firearms during a violent disturbance poses an unacceptable risk to public safety, and we will continue working with our federal partners to hold offenders accountable,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Today's sentence underscores the fact that violence, theft, and damage to public property have no place in lawful protests,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “To the contrary, criminal behavior like the theft of law enforcement weapons endangers the law-abiding public engaged in First Amendment expression. As we work to uphold the Constitution and protect the public, the FBI and our federal, state, and local partners will not tolerate dangerous and destructive behavior. This sentence proves there are serious consequences for those who seek to use lawful demonstrations as a cover for criminal behavior.”
“When a convicted felon took possession of a stolen FBI rifle and silencer, the danger extended far beyond the scene of the unrest,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Spence Burnett of the ATF St. Paul Field Division. “ATF, working alongside members of the Hennepin County Violent Offender Task Force, located and arrested Gutierrez just hours after the firearm was stolen. The U.S. Attorney’s Office carried the case forward in court, and this sentence holds Gutierrez accountable for the danger his actions created in the community.”
Gutierrez pleaded guilty on May 5, 2026. His accomplice, Alexio Miranda, pleaded guilty to possessing a stolen firearm on June 26, 2026, and his sentencing is scheduled for October 28, 2026.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and the Hennepin County Violent Offender Task Force.
Assistant United States Attorney Campbell Warner and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jeanne Semivan are prosecuting this case.
Note: Previous press release on Gutierrez’s accomplice here.
Woman Found Guilty by Federal Jury for Role in Fentanyl Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that a federal jury found Michaela Karon McKinney guilty on three counts for her role in a fentanyl trafficking conspiracy operating between the Twin Cities metropolitan area and Greater Minnesota.
Following a two-day trial in Minneapolis before U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim starting on July 13, 2026, the jury returned a guilty verdict for McKinney on three counts including conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, aiding and abetting possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, and possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking offense.
According to court documents, in 2023, investigators identified a Minneapolis-based fentanyl distributor known as “V,” later confirmed as La’Veal O. Allen, during an ongoing drug trafficking investigation from the Twin Cities to Greater Minnesota, specifically Bemidji. In late spring of 2023, police infiltrated Allen’s drug distribution network, and an undercover officer arranged fentanyl purchases from Allen.
In June and July 2024, McKinney assisted Allen on multiple narcotics distribution trips, helping facilitate the sale of more than 180 grams of powder fentanyl, nearly 500 M-30 fentanyl pills, and approximately 30 grams of methamphetamine. On the initial run, she provided her vehicle to Allen to transport fentanyl to a downstream distributor. Later, she personally drove Allen from the Twin Cities to Little Falls for another drug sale. During that final undercover drug sale on July 1, 2024, McKinney drove Allen to the Little Falls Walmart parking lot, where Allen sold 82 grams of powder fentanyl, 491 M-30 fentanyl pills, and 29.5 grams of methamphetamine to the undercover officer. Officers arrested both Allen and McKinney immediately after the exchange.
Undercover officer with fentanyl and methamphetamine that Allen sold in Little Falls, Minnesota on July 1, 2024
82 grams of powder fentanyl, 491 M-30 fentanyl pills, and 29.5 grams of methamphetamine sold to an undercover officer on July 1, 2024
A search of McKinney’s vehicle revealed her then-six-year-old son in the back seat and a loaded Glock pistol registered to McKinney in the center console. Forensic testing later identified both McKinney’s and Allen’s DNA on the firearm.
McKinney now faces a minimum penalty of 10 years in prison. McKinney’s co-defendants, La’Veal O. Allen and Marquise J. Walker, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute fentanyl on December 16, 2025, and April 3, 2026, respectively. All defendants are currently awaiting sentencing.
“This case shows the continuing fentanyl and drug trafficking operations into Greater Minnesota. My office is committed to working with law enforcement partners across the state to dismantle the networks pushing these lethal substances up north, and to protect families and communities,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“This federal conviction demonstrates what can be accomplished through proactive investigations and strong partnerships between local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement. The Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force remains committed to identifying, disrupting, and dismantling the criminal organizations responsible for trafficking methamphetamine and fentanyl into northern Minnesota. Every successful prosecution represents another step toward protecting our communities and holding those who profit from addiction and violence accountable. I am extremely proud of the dedication, professionalism, and relentless work of our task force agents and our law enforcement partners who made this outcome possible,” said Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force Commander and Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant David Hart.
This case was the result of an investigation by the Paul Bunyan Drug Task Force, FBI Headwaters Task Force, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Beltrami County Sheriff’s Office, Bemidji Police Department, Hubbard County Sheriff’s Office, Morrison County Sheriff’s Office, Morrison County Attorney’s Office, Lakes Area Drug Investigative Division, and the Minnesota State Patrol.
Assistant United States Attorney Garrett S. Fields and Special Assistant United States Attorney Ebenezer K. Gyasi are prosecuting the case.
Note: This press release was updated on July 28, 2026, to correct the dates in the photo captions, which incorrectly listed July 2026 instead of July 2024.
Man Sentenced to 120 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in Bribing a Juror During Feeding Our Future TrialRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Abdiaziz Shafii Farah, 37, was sentenced to 120 months’ imprisonment for attempting to bribe a federal juror during his 2024 fraud trial. He was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Eric C. Tostrud in St. Paul on July 22, 2026.
Abdiaziz Farah was previously sentenced on August 6, 2025, for his role in exploiting a federally funded child nutrition program as part of the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme.
According to court documents, shortly after jury selection in Farah’s 2024 trial for his role in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme, Farah and several of his associates, including Ladan Mohamed Ali, 33, Abdulkarim Shafii Farah, 25, Said Shafii Farah, 44, and Abdimajid Mohamed Nur 25, conspired to bribe one of the jurors in exchange for a not‑guilty verdict.
Among other things, Farah and his co‑conspirators researched the juror online, surveilled her home, and tracked her movements. On June 2, 2024, Ladan Ali delivered a bag containing $120,000 in cash to the juror’s residence, with a promise of more money if the juror voted to acquit. The juror immediately reported the bribery attempt to law enforcement.
The following morning, the Court ordered Farah to surrender his phone to law enforcement. Before doing so, however, Farah conducted a factory reset to delete evidence of his involvement in the bribery scheme.
“Tampering with a juror is an assault on the integrity of the courts and the foundation of our democracy,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “This sentence sends an unmistakable message that justice is not for sale.”
“Today’s sentencing highlights the seriousness of attempting to corrupt the justice system. Abdiaziz Farah was already serving a significant sentence for defrauding the Federal Child Nutrition Program, and this additional conviction shows that efforts to bribe a jury will be met with firm consequences,” said FBI Assistant Special Agent in Charge Benni Jonsson, who is in charge of the FBI Minneapolis Criminal Branch. “The FBI, along with federal prosecutors, will continue pursuing accountability for those charged in this case and anyone who attempts to undermine the integrity of our judicial process.”
“Abdiaziz Farah had already been held accountable for stealing from a program meant to feed children, yet he still chose to recruit others to help corrupt the justice system by bribing a juror,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “When someone tries to buy a verdict, they are attacking the integrity of every courtroom and every citizen who depends on a fair trial. This sentence should leave no doubt that anyone who tries to manipulate our judicial process will be found, prosecuted, and held accountable.”
“Today’s sentencing reflects the outstanding collaboration of law enforcement and the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Minnesota” said Bryan Musgrove, Inspector in Charge of the Denver Division of the United States Postal Inspection Service. “Postal Inspectors worked closely with our partners to hold Abdiaziz Farah accountable for his crimes. Despite the defendant’s efforts to abuse the legal process, justice prevailed.”
“When Farah and his co-conspirators filled that bag with money, they were attempting not only to commit bribery, but to undermine the sanctity of our criminal justice system,” said Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “I am proud of our work alongside our criminal justice partners to identify these criminals and help bring them to justice.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI with assistance from IRS – Criminal Investigation, the U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca E. Kline and Matthew C. Murphy prosecuted the case.
Note: Press release on the indictment of the five defendants here. Related press releases on Ladan Mohamed Ali (September 5, 2024) and Abdulkarim Shafii Farah (April 2, 2025) are linked here.
Vance Boelter Sentenced to Two Consecutive Life Terms Plus 40 Years Consecutive for the Stalking and Murder of Minnesota State LegislatorsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Vance Luther Boelter, 58, has been sentenced to two consecutive terms of life plus a consecutive 40-year term for the stalking and murders of Melissa and Mark Hortman and the stalking and attempted murders of Senator John Hoffman, Yvette Hoffman, and Hope Hoffman on June 14, 2025. Boelter was sentenced before U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim.
Boelter previously pleaded guilty to six federal offenses, including stalking resulting in death, murder through use of a firearm, and discharging a firearm during crimes of violence.
According to court documents, Boelter acted alone, extensively researched his intended targets, and used disguises, firearms, and law‑enforcement‑style equipment to gain access to the victims’ residences. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the offenses, the lasting physical and emotional impacts on the victims and their families, and Boelter’s admitted intent to target multiple elected officials.
“Our hearts remain with the families and loved ones of former Minnesota House Speaker Melissa Hortman and Mark Hortman, and with Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman, Yvette Hoffman, their daughter, and all those whose lives were forever changed by these horrific attacks,” said Acting Attorney General Blanche. “Today’s sentence ensures that this violent criminal will spend the rest of his life in federal prison for his calculated and heinous acts of violence against Minnesota public servants and their families. Political violence is an attack not only on its immediate victims, but also on our communities, our democratic institutions, and the rule of law. The Justice Department will continue to use every available resource to investigate, prosecute, and hold accountable those who target public officials and engage in acts of violence.”
“Vance Boelter’s crimes rank among the most horrific this office has ever prosecuted. Today, the United States ensured that Boelter will spend the rest of his life in prison without the possibility of release. Those who commit political violence at any level should take heed that the Department of Justice will seek and obtain the longest prison terms available for their crimes,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “My deepest condolences go out to the Hortman and Hoffman families as they continue to grieve and heal from this tragedy.”
“Today’s sentencing is an important step toward healing for the families and community forever changed by this political violence,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “Minnesotans deserve to live in a state where their voices are respected and their safety is never threatened by those who try to silence democratic participation through fear. Vance Boelter believed his political opinions outweighed the voice and vote of every other Minnesotan. He was and is profoundly wrong. Minnesota’s law enforcement at every level rallied last June with one shared purpose: to protect our neighbors and defend the democratic values that hold our communities together. The FBI remains committed to using every resource at our disposal to uphold our democracy, defend the Constitution, and eradicate political violence.”
“Behind every count in this case is a person whose life Vance Boelter took or tried to take,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Spence Burnett of the ATF St. Paul Field Division. “Melissa and Mark Hortman were parents whose children lost them both in a matter of seconds. John and Yvette Hoffman survived devastating gunshot wounds, while their daughter was forced to call for help. Boelter also targeted other legislators. Accountability has its limits in the face of this much loss. No sentence can restore the lives he took, heal those he wounded or undo what these families endured. Today’s sentence does ensure he will spend the rest of his life answering for those decisions.”
“This sentencing brings accountability for crimes that shook our community and forever changed the lives of those affected. By portraying himself as a police officer while targeting elected officials, the offender caused profound harm and damaged public trust. We are grateful that the prosecution sought the maximum penalties to be imposed and extend our sincere thanks to everyone whose hard work and commitment made this resolution possible,” said Champlin Police Department Chief Glen Schneider.
“No sentence can bring back the Hortmans, repair the terrible harm done to the Hoffmans, or undo the fear felt by people across Minnesota on June 14 and 15 last year,” said Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “But today’s sentence is a statement to all Minnesotans that order can be restored, that we will hold people accountable for their crimes, and that political violence is never acceptable.”
“Vance Boelter is a cold-blooded killer who should never again walk free. His horrific actions forever changed the lives of the Hortman and Hoffman families, spread fear across communities throughout Minnesota, and shocked our nation. We are grateful for this outcome and hope it brings some measure of justice and relief to the families and everyone impacted by this tragedy,” said Minneapolis Police Department Chief Bill Peterson.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, ATF, Brooklyn Park Police Department, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Champlin Police Department, and New Hope Police Department, together with several other state and local partners. The National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section also assisted in the investigation. This investigation has proceeded with the United States Attorney’s Office in strong partnership with the Hennepin County Attorney’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorneys Bradley M. Endicott and Matthew D. Forbes prosecuted the case.
Note: Previous press releases on the investigation (June 16, 2025), indictment (July 15, 2025), and guilty plea (June 11, 2026) are linked here.
Pelican Rapids Man is 68th Defendant to be Convicted in Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Abdirashid Bixi Dool, 36, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud for his role in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme of more than $330,000. He is the 68th Feeding Our Future defendant convicted.
Dool pleaded guilty on July 13, 2026, and faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
According to court documents, from about March 2021 through December 2021, Dool and his co‑conspirators submitted fraudulent reimbursement claims to Feeding Our Future on behalf of two Minnesota nonprofit organizations, Bilaal Mosque, Inc. and Multicultural Resource Center, Inc. (MRC). Although the nonprofits claimed to be operating meal sites in Pelican Rapids and Moorhead, Minnesota, that served tens of thousands of meals to children, the actual number of meals served was only a fraction of what was reported.
As part of the scheme, Dool knowingly submitted falsified meal count sheets, inflated food purchase invoices, and fabricated rosters of children purportedly served at the sites. On some occasions, he knowingly and falsely claimed the sites served over 40,000 meals per week.
In total, between approximately March 2021 and February 2022, Bilaal and MRC claimed to have served over 505,000 meals to children. The fraudulent submissions led the Minnesota Department of Education to pay nearly $1.1 million in federal child‑nutrition funds to the two nonprofit entities.
“This guilty plea is another step toward restoring integrity to programs meant to support children and families, and it highlights the importance of strong interagency cooperation to stop the fraud and seek accountability for taxpayers,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Programs like the Federal Child Nutrition Program were created to help children at a time when many families were struggling just to put food on the table,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Exploiting that hardship for personal gain is a betrayal of the public’s trust. Working shoulder to shoulder with our federal law enforcement partners, IRS Criminal Investigation will continue to follow the financial trail, expose these schemes, and hold accountable those who steal from programs meant to help our most vulnerable.”
“The conviction of Abdirashid Dool reflects the FBI’s commitment to protecting Minnesotans and holding offenders accountable wherever they attempt to operate. The FBI, alongside our partners in the IRS-CI and the United States Attorney’s Office, will continue to aggressively pursue cases across the state to ensure those who misuse American taxpayer dollars are brought to justice,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson.
“Today's guilty plea showcases our commitment to holding accountable the criminal actors who abused the U.S. Mail in an effort to commit widespread fraud and to divert funds intended for those most in need,” said Bryan Musgrove, Inspector in Charge of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service's Denver Division. “We stand ready with our law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who exploit taxpayer funded benefit programs through fraud schemes.”
“Financial fraud threatens the integrity of our communities, and HSI is unwavering in our commitment to confront it,” said Homeland Security Investigations St. Paul Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy. “By working side by side with our partners, we ensure those who commit these crimes are held accountable and justice is served.”
This case is part of an ongoing federal investigation into fraud involving pandemic‑related child‑nutrition programs.
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, IRS Criminal Investigation, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca E. Kline, Matthew C. Murphy, and Austin L. Bowyer are prosecuting the case.
Note: Previous press release detailing Dool’s charges here. This press release has been updated on July 24, 2026, to correct the number of Feeding Our Future defendants convicted. Previous versions misstated this figure. Dool is the 68th defendant convicted.
Second Lows Gang Member Pleads Guilty to RICO ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Damari “Mari” Douglas, 21, of Elk River, has pleaded guilty for his role in a Racketeer Influenced and Corrupt Organizations (RICO) conspiracy. Douglas was one of 14 members of the violent street gang known as the Lows charged with violating the RICO statutes. Douglas is the second defendant in this case to plead guilty.
The Lows gang has been in existence in Minneapolis since approximately 2004 and is primarily active in north Minneapolis. The Lows gang is alleged to have engaged in multiple acts involving murder, attempted murder, narcotics distribution, robbery, carjacking, and firearms trafficking, and the gang used intimidation, threats, armed retaliation, social‑media taunting, and shared firearms to maintain its territory and reputation.
According to court documents, Douglas admitted multiple acts in furtherance of the RICO conspiracy including voluntary manslaughter. On December 3, 2023, Douglas and several associates left a party in Minneapolis near West Lake Street and Grand Avenue South when an SUV drove by—the SUV slowed down when it approached Douglas and his associates and then accelerated past. Believing the individuals inside the SUV presented a threat, Douglas fired his handgun in the direction of the passing SUV. One of Douglas’s bullets struck and killed a member of his company.
Douglas also admitted arranging for a straw purchaser to obtain firearms on his behalf while he was prohibited from possessing them due to a prior felony conviction. Between December 2023 and February 2024, he directed the straw purchaser to buy firearms and paid for them, resulting in the purchase of at least nine firearms.
On April 19, 2024, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Douglas’s residence and saw Douglas throw a Glock pistol equipped with an automatic conversion device, commonly known as a “switch” or “auto sear,” out of his bedroom window. Officers recovered the Glock, along with a pistol and ammunition from inside his room.
Douglas pleaded guilty before U.S. District Court before Chief Judge Patrick J. Schiltz on July 17, 2026. This charge carries a statutory maximum sentence of life in prison. Sentencing will be scheduled at a later date.
“Damari Douglas committed serious acts of violence and firearms trafficking as part of the Lows gang’s criminal enterprise,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Douglas contributed directly to the violence that has harmed families and communities in Minneapolis through arranging the illegal selling and purchasing of firearms, possessing a machine gun, and firing the shot that killed a victim. Today’s guilty plea reflects my office’s ongoing commitment to hold every member of this enterprise accountable and to take down the violent network that has operated in our city for years.”
“Every guilty plea in this case represents meaningful progress toward dismantling a violent criminal organization whose members trafficked firearms and committed acts of violence,” said ATF Acting Special Agent in Charge Spence Burnett of the St. Paul Field Division. “Complex gang investigations require close coordination among our law enforcement partners and an unwavering commitment to holding every participant accountable. Today’s plea reflects that commitment.”
“This guilty plea reflects the strength of a coordinated RICO investigation and underscores our commitment to dismantling violent criminal networks,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “With 2 of 14 defendants now having pleaded guilty, the investigation continues to show real results. The FBI and our partners remain steadfast in driving down violent crime and removing dangerous offenders from our communities.”
“It’s an all too familiar cycle in which proceeds from drug trafficking led to the purchase of firearms which in turn result in an increase of violence and intimidation within our communities,” Drug Enforcement Administration Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie said. “Today’s sentencing sends a strong message that this type of behavior is unacceptable and will be stopped by the full force of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies.”
“For more than two decades, the Lows spread fear across Minneapolis through murder, drug trafficking, carjackings, and other violence, all to protect and profit from their criminal enterprise,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “This guilty plea is another step toward ending that reign of violence. IRS Criminal Investigation is proud to stand shoulder-to-shoulder with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners, and we will not stop until every member of this criminal enterprise is held accountable.”
“Any day we are able to hold a violent member of the Lows gang accountable is a good day,” said Michael McCarthy, Special Agent in Charge of HSI St. Paul. “This guilty plea reflects the dedication of our agents and partners and serves as a reminder that organized crime will not go unchecked in our city.”
This case was the result of an investigation by the ATF, FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, IRS Criminal Investigation, Homeland Security Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, and Minnesota Department of Corrections are investigating the case, with assistance from the U.S. Marshals Service.
Assistant United States Attorneys Garrett S. Fields and David M. Classen for the District of Minnesota and Trial Attorney Pegah Vakili of the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section are prosecuting the case.
Note: Previous press release detailing Douglas and other Minneapolis gang members’ charges here.
Man Sentenced to 30 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in $3 Million Tax Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen Minnesota announced that Henry Remington Herod, 43, was sentenced to 30 months’ imprisonment and ordered to pay $1.18 million in restitution for his role in preparing and filing false, fictitious, and fraudulent federal income tax returns claiming refunds.
Herod was sentenced before Chief United States District Court Judge Eric C. Tostrud on July 16, 2026.
According to court documents, beginning in or about April 2022 and continuing through at least May 2023, Herod conspired with Matthew McDowell and others to defraud the Internal Revenue Service by obtaining and aiding to obtain the payment of false, fictitious, and fraudulent claims. Matthew McDowell was separately sentenced on April 6, 2026.
As part of the conspiracy, Herod devised and participated in a scheme to obtain money from the United States government by filing false federal income tax returns claiming refunds. He solicited others to provide their names, addresses, and Social Security numbers and used false employment, income, and tax credit information to defraud the United States through fraudulent tax filings.
For tax year 2021, Herod knowingly and willfully completed and filed false tax returns claiming refundable sick and family leave tax credits available to certain self‑employed individuals due to COVID-19-related care. Herod charged filing co‑conspirators a portion of their fraudulent refunds as a fee. Herod also personally prepared and filed false claims for refunds on behalf of individuals for tax year 2022. These claims included false refundable fuel tax credits.
In total, Herod filed forty‑two fraudulent returns for tax year 2021, claiming $1,290,267 in refunds, and sixty fraudulent returns for tax year 2022, claiming $1,460,143 in refunds. Herod also taught McDowell how to prepare fraudulent tax returns, including how to falsely claim refundable fuel tax credits, in exchange for $400. With Herod’s assistance, McDowell prepared and filed thirteen fraudulent 2022 income tax returns claiming $282,429 in refunds. Together, they knowingly and willfully completed and filed 115 fraudulent federal income tax returns, falsely claiming the filers were entitled to approximately $3,032,839 in refunds.
“Stealing from the United States is stealing from hardworking Americans. We are grateful for the strong partnership with IRS Criminal Investigations in bringing this case forward, and we will continue working to find and prosecute those who steal from the American taxpayers,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“This sentencing is yet another example of the sheer greed that plagued COVID-19-era benefit programs intended to help alleviate the hardships individuals and businesses were experiencing during the pandemic,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “Henry Herod’s scheme to defraud American taxpayers through blatantly false claims for tax credits and refunds and his involvement of others to carry out his fraud scheme was foiled by diligent IRS Criminal Investigation Special Agents. The fraud tactics change from program to program, but the tenacity of our investigators never lets up.”
Assistant United States Attorney Matthew C. Murphy is prosecuting the case.
Note: Previous press release detailing the indictment here.
Red Lake Man Sentenced to over Five Years’ Imprisonment for Sexual Abuse of a MinorRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Leland Whitefeather, Sr., 77, was sentenced to 66 months for the sexual abuse of a minor. Whitefeather was sentenced before U.S. District Judge Laura M. Provinzino on July 15, 2026.
Whitefeather, who was acting as a caretaker to the victims at the time, admitted to knowingly engaging in sexual acts with multiple minors, including at his home, within the boundaries of the Red Lake Indian Reservation between 2009 and 2019. After his release from custody, Whitefeather will be placed on sex offender supervision for a period of five years.
“There’s not a higher priority for our office than protecting children. We will continue working closely with the FBI, the Red Lake Police Department, and all of our law enforcement partners to hold accountable those who prey on the innocent,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“The FBI has no tolerance for child sexual abuse,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “Leland Whitefeather, Sr. admitted to the sexual abuse of three children on multiple occasions during the span of over nine years. His sentence to federal prison is deserved. The FBI and our partners with the Red Lake Tribal Police work diligently every day to protect the community and the children of the Red Lake Nation. We hope this sentence can be part of the healing process for this defendant’s victims and their families.”
This case was the result of an investigation by the FBI and Red Lake Tribal Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorneys Evan Gilead and Mary Riverso prosecuted the case.
Successful Transfer of Abdikerm Eidleh from Somalia to Minnesota to Face Charges for Role in Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, Minnesota, was successfully transferred to Minnesota on July 16, 2026, after his lawful surrender in Somalia.
Eidleh was among the defendants originally charged by indictment in the Feeding Our Future scheme in September 2022 and is facing 31 charges including conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering.
In September 2022, the U.S. District Court for the District of Minnesota signed a warrant for Eidleh’s arrest.
Almost four years later in June 2026, Eidleh was located by law enforcement in Somalia. As a result of strong international law enforcement partnerships between the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia, and the Somali Police Force, Eidleh was escorted to the District of Minnesota by Special Agents of the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigation. The Department of Justice’s Office of International Affairs provided valuable assistance in securing Eidleh’s return to the United States.
“Fraudsters like Abdikerm Eidleh should know full well that they cannot escape the full weight of the Justice Department,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “I commend our law enforcement partners for swiftly and securely returning Eidleh to the United States, where he will now face justice for his crimes.”
“Abdikerm Eidleh is second only to Aimee Bock in the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme. His capture and transfer back to Minnesota show how far the arm of American law enforcement can reach, and that you can run, but you cannot hide,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Today is a historic moment in this FBI’s war on fraud,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The transfer of Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh brings to justice one of the alleged ringleaders of the $250 million ‘Feeding our Future’ fraud scandal out of Minnesota – where this FBI has already helped secure over 70 guilty pleas from fraudsters in partnership with the Justice Department. These are individuals who stole critical, taxpayer funded resources from kids in need during the COVID pandemic – and Eidleh was allegedly right at the top of the operation. He fled overseas after being charged in 2022, but thanks to the leadership of the Trump administration, our partners at the Justice Department, and counterparts in Somalia, this FBI got him. Criminals around the world should note: this is the 25th such transfer executed by this FBI in the last month alone, meaning no matter where you try to hide, we will find you.”
“The FBI will exercise all of its lawful authorities at home—and all of its extensive law enforcement partnerships abroad—to bring alleged criminals and fraudsters to justice,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “There is no safe harbor for criminals, no corner of the planet, where we will not work to seek justice for crime victims and the American taxpayer. The FBI extends its sincere gratitude to the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia and the Somali Police Force for their dedicated work in locating and apprehending an alleged leader in one of the most significant frauds against the American taxpayer ever detected in Minnesota. We also recognize the cooperative efforts of the Ministry of Justice and Constitutional Affairs of the Federal Republic of Somalia in facilitating this defendant’s transfer to the United States to answer the charges brought in this case.”
“While families relied on a vital assistance program to feed their children during the pandemic, Abdikerm Eidleh stole from it and fled the country rather than face justice,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “His return makes clear that time and distance cannot shield those who steal from the American people. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents used their forensic accounting expertise to follow the money, unravel this massive fraud scheme, and help bring Eidleh back to answer for his crimes alongside his already convicted co-conspirators.”
Eidleh is expected to make his initial appearance on July 17, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge John F. Docherty.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Note: Previous press release detailing Eidleh’s apprehension here.
Five Men Sentenced to Total of 518 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in Large-Scale Drug Trafficking in Wadena CountyRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that five defendants were collectively sentenced to over 500 months of imprisonment for their roles in a large-scale drug trafficking case out of Wadena County.
The following individuals were sentenced:
- Robert Joseph Anderson, 40, of Wadena, Minnesota, 132 months for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine
- Aaron Thomas Heifort, 30, of Clitherall, Minnesota, 122 months for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine
- Bill J. Rude, 63, of Wadena, Minnesota, 120 months for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine
- Carlos Deyvi Valdovinos‑Trejo, 39, 84 months for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine
- Jesus Alarcon Valdovinos, 44, 60 months for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and cocaine
On July 9, 2026, Aaron Heifort, the final of five these defendants, was sentenced by U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim in Minneapolis.
According to court documents, beginning in or about December 2023, and continuing through in or about February 2024, Valdovinos‑Trejo, Valdovinos, Anderson, Heifort, and Rude knowingly and intentionally conspired with one another and others to possess with the intent to distribute and distribute large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine in Minnesota.
On November 10, 2023, law enforcement responded to a death at a residence in Wadena County, Minnesota that was caused by a methamphetamine and fentanyl overdose. Investigators identified Rude as one of the decedent’s methamphetamine suppliers. Through further investigation, law enforcement successfully uncovered the broader distribution network. Anderson, a prominent regional distributor in the Wadena area, procured bulk quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine from Valdovinos-Trejo and Valdovinos, which he in turn sold to downstream distributors in Greater Minnesota, including Heifort and Rude.
Between December 2023 and January 2024, law enforcement seized more than 2.6 kilograms of methamphetamine and 29 grams of cocaine from the Wadena-based members of the conspiracy, including Rude, Heifort, and Anderson. In January 2024, law enforcement conducted two separate controlled buys from Valdovinos-Trejo, resulting in the seizure of an additional 1.35 kilograms of methamphetamine. On February 6, 2024, law enforcement conducted a third controlled buy from both Mr. Valdovinos-Trejo and Carlos Valdovinos for 2.3 kilograms of methamphetamine. That same day, law enforcement searched two residences associated with the trafficking conspiracy and seized an additional 5.2 kilograms of methamphetamine, 1.1 kilograms of heroin, and 1.3 kilograms of cocaine.
“Methamphetamine and fentanyl continue to destroy countless lives and communities throughout Greater Minnesota. The sentencing of these five individuals demonstrates the strong partnership across federal and local law enforcement to hold accountable those who distribute dangerous drugs into our communities,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“Aaron Heifort and his methamphetamine-trafficking conspirators face a combined 43 years in federal prison for the significant amount of poison they brought into and distributed around our Minnesota communities,” DEA Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie said. “As a result of their actions, an individual lost their life. It’s an unfortunate tragedy seen all too frequently across the state, region and country. Drug traffickers like Heifort line their pocket with proceeds turning a blind eye to the lives lost and families left behind.”
“This case reflects a strong partnership between the Wadena County Sheriff’s Office and our local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and our shared commitment to holding drug traffickers accountable. We remain committed to pursuing those who distribute dangerous drugs in our communities and seeking justice for the victims and their families,” said Wadena County Sheriff Michael D. Carr.
“What started out as a local drug related overdose death, resulted in the federal indictments and convictions of several people. The investigation by deputies of the West Central Minnesota Violent Crime and Drug Task Force discovered a large-scale drug trafficking ring. This case outlines the importance of multi-jurisdictional task forces and relationships with state and federal partners and its impact on public safety,” said Otter Tail County Minnesota Sheriff Barry Fitzgibbons.
“Drug trafficking doesn’t stop at city or county lines,” said Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “Cases like this demonstrate why strong partnerships across Minnesota are so important. By working together and following the evidence wherever it leads, law enforcement agencies can better disrupt the networks bringing dangerous drugs into our communities.”
“The Minnesota State Patrol remains committed to supporting our law enforcement partners by contributing our unique capabilities and resources to initiatives that enhance public safety. While each agency plays a distinct role, our shared commitment to cooperation, information sharing, and coordinated enforcement allows us to remain steadfast in our collective mission to protect the communities we serve,” said Minnesota State Patrol Colonel Christina Bogojevic.
This case was the result of an investigation conducted by the Wadena County Sheriff’s Office, Otter Tail County Sheriff’s Office, West Central Drug Task Force, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Minnesota State Patrol, Drug Enforcement Administration, and other federal and local law enforcement partners.
United States Assistant Attorney Garrett S. Fields prosecuted the case.
Federal Agent Sentenced to 84 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in the Production of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Timothy Ryan Gregg, 53, of Eagan, Minnesota, has been sentenced to 84 months’ imprisonment for his role in transporting and producing visual depictions of minors engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
According to court documents, Gregg admitted to knowingly producing child pornography that depicted Gregg engaging in sexually explicit conduct with a minor. At the time of his conduct, Gregg was a Special Agent with Homeland Security Investigations based in Minnesota and served as a Task Force Officer with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
“My office will always pursue these cases with unwavering resolve. Protecting children is one of our highest priorities, and we will hold accountable anyone who exploits them. This case reflects a critical mission across federal and local law enforcement. The United States Attorney’s Office remains committed in our duty to protect children and will aggressively investigate and prosecute those who violate that trust,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“No badge, title or position places anyone above the law. The conduct in this case is appalling and wholly inconsistent with the values of ICE and Homeland Security Investigations,” said ICE Director David J. Venturella. “We have zero tolerance for crimes against children, and anyone who commits these offenses will be held fully accountable. ICE remains steadfast in its mission to protect children, support victims and pursue those who seek to exploit the most vulnerable.”
“This defendant knew better than almost anyone that what he was doing was illegal and wrong, yet he chose to do it anyhow,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “The sexual exploitation of children in any context is reprehensible. This defendant’s crimes while employed as a law enforcement officer are doubly disgraceful. We hope this sentence provides some sense of justice and safety for the victim and their family. This sentence should also serve as a warning to others who think they might get away with sexually exploiting a minor—regardless of who you are or the position you hold, the FBI will always take swift action to protect children and hold offenders accountable.”
“Protecting children and vulnerable members of our Rochester community is among our highest priorities,” said Rochester Police Department Chief Jim Franklin. “The Rochester Police Department takes these crimes extremely seriously, and we remain steadfast in our commitment to dedicating the resources necessary to identify, investigate, and hold accountable those who prey upon the most vulnerable. This case also demonstrates the critical importance of strong partnerships with our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office. We are grateful for their vigilance, professionalism, and shared commitment to protecting our community and ensuring justice is served.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Rochester Police Department.
Assistant United States Attorney LeeAnn Bell prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division’s Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Note: The previous press release detailing the case is available here.
Crookston Man Pleads Guilty to Attempted Production of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Joseph Robert Thompson, a Crookston man, has pleaded guilty to one count of attempted production of child pornography.
According to court documents, on October 13, 2024, Thompson took a series of photos of sexually explicit conduct of a then-six-year-old minor for the purpose of producing visual depictions of such conduct.
Thompson had previously come to law enforcement’s attention after soliciting illicit images from an undercover officer posing as a 14‑year‑old on August 28, 2024. On October 15, 2024, Thompson was arrested, and during a search of his home, investigators seized multiple electronic devices which included additional evidence, including child sexual abuse material and communications between Thompson and an adult male in Missouri. Thompson and the Missouri male exchanged child sexual abuse material and discussed abusing minors. Thompson admitted to distributing and receiving illegal material between August and October 2024.
Thompson pleaded guilty to attempted production of child pornography before United States District Court Judge Nancy E. Brasel on June 29, 2026. This federal felony offense carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years in prison, along with a term of supervised release of at least five years and up to life. A sentencing hearing will be scheduled at a later date.
“Today’s guilty plea demonstrates the unwavering commitment of federal, state, and local partners to identify, investigate, and prosecute those who prey on children,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Our office will continue to use every available resource to protect vulnerable victims and bring those who harm them to justice.”
“I am extremely proud of the outstanding collaboration between the Crookston Police Department, Polk County Sheriff’s Office, and the FBI's Minnesota Child Exploitation Task Force, which culminated in the successful arrest and charging of a dangerous child predator. Protecting our children is one of our highest priorities. We will continue to pursue these offenders relentlessly to hold these offenders responsible to ensure our community is a safer place for our most vulnerable residents,” said Crookston Police Chief Darin Selzler.
“Joseph Robert Thompson's conviction in this case is just one example of how strong law enforcement partnerships keep our communities safer,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Christopher D. Dotson. “FBI resources, paired with tenacious work from our Task Force Officers from Crookston Police and detectives from Polk County Sheriff's Office, have combined to take another child predator off of our streets. The Minnesota Child Exploitation Task Force continues to work throughout the state to keep our kids safe online and in our neighborhoods.”
This case was investigated by the Crookston Police Department and Polk County Sheriff's Office with assistance from the FBI's Minnesota Child Exploitation Task Force.
Assistant United States Attorney Kristian Weir is prosecuting the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by the United States Attorneys' Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Man Sentenced to 200 Months’ Imprisonment for Role in Large-Scale Methamphetamine and Fentanyl TraffickingRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Juan Carlos Felix, 47, the lead defendant in a large-scale drug trafficking case that involved an extensive undercover operation, was sentenced to 200 months’ imprisonment.
On November 18, 2025, Felix pleaded guilty for his role in an expansive methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking operation responsible for moving large quantities of narcotics from California into the Midwest.
According to court documents, law enforcement began investigating in September 2023 after learning that Felix was trafficking large quantities of methamphetamine from California to states in the Midwest, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Nebraska. Investigators infiltrated Felix’s network, and from September 2023 through May 2024 an undercover officer coordinated nine controlled narcotics transactions with Felix that collectively contained nearly 20 kilograms of methamphetamine and more than a kilogram of fentanyl.
Felix was formerly convicted of transporting controlled substances in Los Angeles in both 2015 and 2019, serving two and five years in prison, respectively. And here, Felix was not simply a member of a large drug trafficking organization responsible for facilitating shipments of illicit narcotics. Rather, Felix supervised and directed the activities of multiple Midwest-based members of the trafficking operation, including directing co‑defendants to collect payments and conduct drug exchanges on his behalf.
“The scale of Juan Felix’s operation was staggering,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Had these drugs reached Minnesota, the impact would have been devastating. Yesterday’s sentencing reflects our commitment to safeguarding the people of Minnesota by keeping dangerous drugs off our streets.”
“Juan Carlos Felix, a known Sinaloa Cartel affiliate, was operating out of Minneapolis with a network that spanned several Midwest states,” DEA Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie said. “There is truly no portion of the country immune to the threat of these drug trafficking organizations and the fentanyl, methamphetamine and other deadly drugs they are moving into our communities. The DEA is committed to dismantling these organizations cell-by-cell as we work toward eliminating these threats from the heartland.”
“This case highlights the U.S. Postal Inspection Service’s commitment to keeping our communities safe from the scourge of methamphetamines and fentanyl,” said Inspector in Charge Bryan Musgrove. “Every day, Postal Inspectors work to protect the mail from being misused by criminals, including large scale Drug Trafficking Organizations. The sentence handed down today should serve as a reminder to other perpetrators that we remain vigilant, along with our law enforcement partners, to swiftly bring anyone who engages in this activity to justice.”
“Drug trafficking reaches far beyond those involved in the illegal drug trade,” said Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “Traffickers fuel addiction, which victimizes families and threatens the safety of entire communities. The outstanding work of our agents and law enforcement partners ensured that Mr. Felix can no longer prey on the people of the Iron Range and Duluth areas. Their dedication and commitment to protecting Minnesotans have made those communities safer today.”
“The Carlton County Sheriff’s Office is proud to have assisted our DEA partners in removing a repeat drug trafficker from our community, protecting our residents from the large quantities of dangerous narcotics he had spent time and effort transporting and distributing,” said Chief Deputy of Carlton County Sheriff’s Office Dan Danielson.
“This case reflects the strength of our partnerships across every level of law enforcement. Mr. Felix’s operation pushed significant quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl into our communities, and this sentence reflects the seriousness of that harm,” said Chief of Police of Cloquet Police Department Derek Randall. “I want to thank the U.S. Attorney’s Office and our federal, state, and local partners for their relentless work to hold him accountable and keep these drugs off our streets.”
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration, US Postal Inspection Service, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, Carlton County Sheriff’s Office, Cloquet Police Department, and other federal and local law enforcement partners.
Assistant United States Attorney Garrett S. Fields prosecuted this case.
Members and Associates of Two Minnesota Drug Trafficking Organizations Indicted and ArrestedRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today the unsealing of an indictment and superseding indictment charging members and associates of two Minnesota-based drug trafficking organizations with conspiracy to distribute cocaine and fentanyl, firearms offenses, possession with intent to distribute controlled substances, and causing death through use of a firearm. As a result of these investigations, 25 members and associates of these gangs have been charged. Agents and officers, including multiple S.W.A.T. Teams, executed several arrest and search warrants this morning, resulting in the arrest of 12 of the defendants.
“Violent drug trafficking will not be tolerated in Minnesota,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “When individuals flood our streets with dangerous narcotics and arm themselves to protect their illicit activity, they put everyone at risk. Through our strong partnerships across federal, state, and local law enforcement, we are committed to disrupting these networks and holding offenders accountable.”
“The indictments announced today are the result of a shoulder-to-shoulder partnership between the FBI, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sheriff's Office, and the DEA,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “Together, our message to every violent gang member and drug dealer is clear—our streets are not your ‘territory,’ they are a part of our communities. These streets belong to the families and residents that make up our neighborhoods. The FBI and our partners will ensure the safety of our streets by bringing anyone spreading poison and violence in our neighborhoods to justice.”
“The Family Mob and those who associate with this violent organization are responsible for staining our streets with bloodshed and drug use,” said DEA Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie. “Over a span of five months, the individuals indicted today attempted to traffic no less than 333,000 deadly doses of fentanyl into our Minneapolis communities. There is no room for this type of behavior in Minnesota and today’s indictments are not the end of the story. Our agents and law enforcement partners will continue working to dismantle this organization, if necessary, one person at a time.”
“Today's arrests represent another significant step in our shared effort to dismantle the criminal organizations responsible for trafficking illegal narcotics, fueling gun violence, and terrorizing our neighborhoods. These results demonstrate the power of strong law enforcement partnerships,” said Minneapolis Police Chief Bill Peterson.
“My Office is committed to combatting violent crime. This investigation demonstrates what is possible when law enforcement agencies from all levels work together with a shared commitment to public safety. Drug trafficking organizations and drug dealers bring violence, addiction, and fear into our communities. By combining our resources and expertise, we are disrupting criminal networks and holding those responsible for causing harm to our community accountable,” said Dawanna Witt, Sheriff of Hennepin County.
The Family Mob Drug Trafficking Organization
According to the allegations in the superseding indictment and court documents the defendants were members or associates of the Family Mob gang, which is based in south Minneapolis and originated in approximately the late 1990’s to early 2000’s. The Family Mob conspires to distribute fentanyl, crack cocaine, methamphetamine, and other controlled substances. In the past year, the area in the Family Mob’s territory has seen an increased prevalence of open-air drug trafficking, weapons violations, shootings, and homicides.
The members of this fentanyl trafficking conspiracy maintained an open‑air drug market near Lake Street and Park Avenue. They enforced their territory with violence, including a murder in September 2025. The defendants distributed large quantities of fentanyl and carried out shootings that endangered the community. Members and associates of the Family Mob gang collectively distributed kilograms of fentanyl every month during the course of the conspiracy. Suppliers within the drug trafficking organization procured fentanyl in kilogram-level quantities before passing it to street-level dealers.
The superseding indictment also charges multiple acts of violence related to a September 14, 2025 shooting near Lake Street and 15th Avenue.
The following individuals are charged in the superseding indictment:
- Kiron Jamoll Williams, aka “Killer,” 44, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
- Silk Lamond Davis, aka “Do Good,” 48, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl.
- Lakendrick Darnell Gilliam, aka “Bay Bay,” 38, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
- Rashshon Jamahl Taggett, aka “Dread,” aka “Lay Low,” 45, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and distribution of fentanyl.
- Trevon Harris, aka “Tracy,” aka “Tray,” 28, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and murder during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
- Maricus Antonio Leroy Moore, aka “Slug,” 45, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
- Larnell Douglas Wren, aka “LA,” 51, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
- Emmett Duane Williams, aka “FuFu,” 45, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
- Garyegus Lealexandra Cooper, aka “Pig,” 47, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
- Deangelo Martez Davenport, aka “Rock” or “Kenny Davenport,” 50, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl and with murder during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
- Mortez Crumble, 34, is charged in two counts with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; and in a separate count with possessing a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime.
- Eddie Dersaill Brown, aka “Mike Mike,” 34, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
- Richard Payton, III, aka “Poison,” 52, is charged with conspiracy to distribute fentanyl.
Amani Hudson Drug Trafficking Organization
The members in this drug trafficking organization—some members of whom are associated with the G Block and Bogus Boys gangs—base their operations near 19th and Nicollet in Minneapolis. The organization distributes large amounts of fentanyl and cocaine throughout South Minneapolis and across the Twin Cities. The flow of narcotics contributed to an escalation of violence and shootings in the area of 19th and Nicollet.
The following individuals are charged and have been held in custody:
- Amani Xavier Hudson, Sr., aka “Doughboy,” 35, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Kelley Christine Hudson, 24, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Jerry Wayne Jones, 70, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Fronta Lontrell Miller, aka “Bam,” 50, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Tanell Kinte Prempeh, 32, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Ryan Andrew Boston, aka “Marquese,” 41, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Hezekiah Micah Fields, 26, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Tawaun Lewis, Sr., aka “T-Lane,” 46, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Darquel Markease Rockymore, aka “Sleepy,” 35, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Malcolm Dashuan Peoples, 33, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
- Daren Leemont Rutledge, 53, is charged with conspiracy to distribute controlled substances.
Fronta Lontrell Miller remains at large for his alleged involvement in drug activities in Minneapolis.
These cases were investigated by the FBI, Drug Enforcement Administration, Minneapolis Police Department, the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office, and other local partners.
Assistant United States Attorneys William C. Mattessich, Garrett S. Fields, Raphael B. Coburn, and Jack R. Leon are prosecuting the cases.
The investigation leading to today's announcement is part of Operation Summer Heat, 2026. For the second year in a row, the FBI is deploying Summer Heat to target violent crime on a nationwide scale. By surging resources alongside federal, state, and local partners, executing federal warrants on violent criminals and fugitives, and dismantling violent gangs nationwide, the FBI is aggressively seeking to restore safety in communities across the country.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
St. Paul Man Pleads Guilty to Possession of Stolen Federal FirearmsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced that Alexio Miranda, 32, has pleaded guilty to possession of a stolen firearm, an offense that could carry a maximum of 10 years in prison.
According to court documents, on January 14, 2026, Miranda participated in a violent civil disturbance in Minneapolis, Minnesota, in which he and others broke into a vehicle belonging to the FBI. When Miranda and an accomplice arrived, the FBI vehicle was already badly damaged, covered in graffiti, and the rear hatch was open. Miranda then broke into a vault in the cargo area and took a rifle bag and a satchel of ammunition. The bag contained a semiautomatic rifle and a silencer. Two days later, police arrested Miranda and recovered the rifle and silencer.
A grand jury indicted Miranda for one count each of possessing a stolen firearm, possessing an unregistered firearm, and theft of government property. On June 26, 2026, Miranda pled guilty before U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim to one count of possessing a stolen firearm. Miranda’s sentencing is scheduled for October 28, 2026.
“This case shows that actions which endanger the public and interfere with federal law enforcement operations carry serious consequences,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Our office remains committed to pursuing accountability for those who lack respect for the law.”
“This defendant made a series of deliberate choices that put a stolen firearm into the hands of a prohibited person: Raul Gutierrez, an alleged Latin Kings gang member. Today Miranda is taking responsibility for those choices,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Spence Burnett of the ATF St. Paul Field Division. “ATF and our law enforcement partners stayed committed to seeing this case through, and we will continue to hold accountable anyone who chooses to endanger public safety. That accountability is how we keep our neighborhoods safe.”
“Today’s guilty plea reflects ATF’s dedicated efforts in addressing this dangerous criminal conduct that threatens community safety and undermines the lawful exercise of First Amendment rights. The FBI is proud to have assisted ATF in this case, and together with the USAO, DEA, and our state and local law enforcement partners, we remain committed to ensuring individuals are held accountable through the federal justice system,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson.
Assistant United States Attorney Campbell Warner and Special Assistant United States Attorney Jeanne Semivan are prosecuting this case.
Man Taken into Custody in Somalia for Role in Feeding Our Future Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Abdikerm Abdelahi Eidleh, 42, of Burnsville, Minnesota—one of the orchestrators of the Feeding Our Future fraud scheme—was taken into custody on June 25, 2026, in Mogadishu, Somalia.
Eidleh was among the defendants originally charged by indictment in the Feeding Our Future scheme on September 13, 2022. The indictment alleges 31 counts of conspiracy to commit wire fraud, wire fraud, conspiracy to commit federal programs bribery, federal programs bribery, conspiracy to commit money laundering, and money laundering.
According to court documents, Eidleh was an employee of Feeding Our Future who was responsible for recruiting and supporting Federal Child Nutrition Program sites under Feeding Our Future’s sponsorship. He and other Feeding Our Future employees solicited and received bribes and kickbacks from individuals and companies seeking approval to operate fraudulent Federal Child Nutrition Program sites. The indictment describes Feeding Our Future as operating a pay‑to‑play scheme in which operators of fraudulent meal sites kicked back a portion of their illicit proceeds to employees, including Eidleh, often disguised as “consulting fees” through shell companies.
The indictment alleges that Eidleh created his own Federal Child Nutrition Program sites in the name of nominee owners and fraudulently claimed that the sites were serving meals to thousands of children per day. He also created shell companies purporting to be meal vendors for those sites and created and submitted fraudulent invoices to obtain, misappropriate, and defraud federal nutrition program funds. Eidleh deposited more than $5 million in kickbacks, bribes, and other fraud proceeds into accounts associated with his shell companies, using them to conceal the true nature and source of the illegally obtained funds.
“This defendant was a central figure in one of the largest fraud schemes in Minnesota history,” said Assistant Attorney General Colin M. McDonald of the Department of Justice’s National Fraud Enforcement Division. “He not only stole taxpayer dollars, but he also robbed vulnerable children of critical resources they desperately needed. Rather than answer for his crimes in the United States, he fled to Somalia in a futile attempt to evade justice. That attempt ended thanks to the exceptional work of our FBI partners. The Department of Justice will continue to track down and prosecute fraudsters wherever they run and wherever they hide.”
“Eidleh’s capture shows that, if you commit fraud against the American taxpayer, and try hiding across the globe, the long arm of justice will find you,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “We salute the FBI’s work in finding Eidleh, and are grateful to all our federal and international partners that help us hold accountable those who defraud our government.”
“With the apprehension of Abdikerm Eidleh, the FBI's partnerships with law enforcement worldwide again send a message – the FBI’s reach is far and wide, we will track down and bring to justice any fugitive, from anywhere,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “According to the indictment, Eidleh's alleged fraud took millions of dollars from programs designed for children and families in need. When the alleged fraud was uncovered, he unwisely tried to hide from justice on the other side of the world. The FBI and our partners will shine a light on fraudsters wherever they may try to hide. The FBI extends its sincere appreciation to the National Intelligence and Security Agency of Somalia for their outstanding partnership in locating and apprehending Eidleh so he may be brought to justice.”
“Every dollar stolen from the pockets of hardworking Americans emphasizes the Postal Inspection Service’s commitment to protecting our communities,” said Bryan Musgrove, Inspector in Charge, Denver Division. “This arrest shows that criminals who abuse the financial system and exploit innocent people for their own gain will not escape their day in court. They are not above the law. Postal inspectors continue to be relentless in their pursuit of justice.”
This case is a result of an investigation conducted by the FBI, IRS – Criminal Investigations, U.S. Postal Inspection Service, and Homeland Security Investigations.
Assistant United States Attorneys Rebecca E. Kline, Matthew C. Murphy, and Austin Bowyer are prosecuting these cases.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division (“Fraud Division”). The Fraud Division is laser-focused on investigating and prosecuting those who commit fraud against the American people. The Department’s work to combat fraud supports President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Note: Previous press release on federal charges against Eidleh and other defendants here.
Defendant Previously Convicted of Murder Sentenced to Decade in Federal Prison for Drug Trafficking Following Joint Local, State, and Federal Law Enforcement OperationRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that James Andre Banks, 39, was sentenced to a decade in prison for his role trafficking methamphetamine and cocaine in South Minneapolis while also illegally possessing several firearms.
According to court documents, local, state, and federal law enforcement surged resources to a known problem area in Minneapolis to conduct a Focused Enforcement Detail. During the Detail, a law enforcement surveillance officer detected Banks conducting suspected narcotics transactions in South Minneapolis near Park Ave and East Lake Street. Officers from multiple agencies, including the Minneapolis and Metro Transit Police Departments, surrounded Banks and carried out a search of his person and vehicle.
When approached by officers, Banks fled on foot and tossed a firearm. The firearm Banks dropped was recovered by officers and identified as a Taurus G2C semi-automatic pistol equipped with an extended magazine with 18 rounds of ammunition and another round loaded in the chamber. On Mr. Banks’ person, officers found a second firearm, a Glock Model 17, also equipped with an extended magazine with 24 rounds of ammunition.
At the time of his arrest, Banks was prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time, due to prior convictions under Minnesota law for Second-Degree Intentional Murder and Second-Degree Assault with a Deadly Weapon. Banks was on state parole for his previous murder and assault convictions when he was arrested.
On Banks’ person and in his vehicle, officers found distribution quantities of crystal methamphetamine and cocaine.
“The United States Attorney’s Office will continue to prioritize working with our federal, state, and local law enforcement partners to prosecute the most serious violent felons who illegally possess firearms and traffic dangerous drugs,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
According to Chief Bill Peterson of the Minneapolis Police Department, “Taking dangerous offenders involved in drug trafficking and illegal firearm offenses off our streets makes our communities safer. We appreciate the work of everyone involved in bringing this case to the sentencing stage, and we remain committed to continuing our work to hold violent offenders accountable.”
“James Banks had already served roughly 15 years for murder and a violent assault. Within months of his release, and while still under court supervision, he chose to return to the streets armed with two loaded pistols and a stash of drugs,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Spence Burnett of the ATF St. Paul Field Division. “Banks had every opportunity to walk away from that life and made the opposite choice at every turn. ATF and our partners will keep holding repeat violent offenders accountable, because that is how we protect our community.”
Banks pleaded guilty on January 21, 2026, to one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine and cocaine.
This case was the result of collaboration and investigation by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Minneapolis Police Department, and the Metro Transit Police Department, with forensic science laboratory support from the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension.
Sentencing took place today before U.S. District Judge John R. Tunheim in Minneapolis.
Assistant United States Attorneys David B. Green and Mary S. Riverso are prosecuting the case.
Four Eden Prairie Firefighters Recognized with Freedom 250 Hometown Hero AwardRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota recognized four members of the Eden Prairie Fire Department as “Hometown Heroes” for their courageous rescue of an infant from a burning townhome on May 31, 2024.
Assistant Fire Chief Justin Johnson, Assistant Fire Chief Matt Worthington (then a Captain), Firefighter Joshua Privette, and Firefighter Michael Do were recognized at a ceremony in Eden Prairie on June 25, 2026.
United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen, Assistant Chief Justin Johnson, Assistant Chief Matt Worthington, Firefighter Joshua Privette, Firefighter Michael Do, and Chief Scott Gerber
On May 31, 2024, Johnson, Worthington, Privette, and Do were among the first responders dispatched to a heavily involved structure fire on the 8500 block of Cardiff Lane. With conflicting reports about whether anyone remained inside, Chief Johnson directed the crew to conduct an immediate search. Entering without a hose line, the firefighters completed a primary search of the first floor before moving upstairs through high heat and low visibility. During the search, Firefighter Privette located an infant in a playpen. The crew quickly carried the child outside and transferred her to Hennepin EMS for transport to Children’s Hospital. The child survived and continues to thrive today.
“These four men entered a burning home with no certainty of what they would encounter and emerged carrying a child to safety,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Their actions reflect the spirit of liberty, service, and civic responsibility that Freedom 250 was created to celebrate.”
The recognition was given as part of the Department of Justice’s Freedom 250 initiative, a national campaign through which United States Attorneys’ Offices highlight individuals whose dedication, bravery, and leadership have made a significant difference in their communities as the nation approaches its 250th anniversary.
Freedom 250 is a nationwide initiative recognizing public servants whose actions exemplify the founding values of the United States. More information is available at freedom250.org.
Minneapolis Man Sentenced to More than 12 Years’ Imprisonment for Role in Drug Trafficking and Possession of Illegal FirearmsRead the Press Release
ST. PAUL – U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Denzel Christopher Meeks, 33, was sentenced yesterday, June 23, 2026, to 148 months in federal prison for his role in a fentanyl trafficking operation uncovered during a 2023 investigation.
According to court documents, investigators with a drug task force identified Meeks as a wholesale narcotics trafficker operating throughout the Twin Cities and Minnesota. During the fall of 2023, officers observed Meeks accessing multiple stash locations, including two apartments and a storage unit, to store fentanyl, drug proceeds, and firearms.
On October 18, 2023, law enforcement executed multiple court‑authorized search warrants. Officers conducted a traffic stop of Meeks’ vehicle and discovered a loaded Glock 29 pistol with an extended magazine in a hidden compartment in Meeks’ vehicle, along with approximately 25 grams of fentanyl concealed on his person.
Searches of Meeks’ stash locations revealed:
- Inside a Minneapolis storage unit, approximately 500 grams of fentanyl, along with two Glock pistols equipped with “switch” devices—which enabled the pistols to function as fully-automatic machineguns—and extended magazines, and more than $32,000 in cash drug proceeds.
- In a Minneapolis apartment, approximately 4,500 fentanyl pills weighing approximately 370 grams, drug packaging materials, and digital scales.
- Over $48,000 in cash drug proceeds inside an apartment in St. Louis Park.
In total, Meeks admitted to possessing between 1,200 and 4,000 grams of fentanyl with the intent to distribute it, and that he possessed several firearms in furtherance of his drug activity. In the government’s sentencing position, the United States argued that “Meeks was not a small-time or sporadic drug distributer,” and noted that the “volume of cash found at locations he controlled, more than $80,000, demonstrates the scope and profitability of Meeks’ drug trafficking enterprise.”
“Fentanyl continues to take lives across Minnesota, and those who choose to traffic this lethal drug while armed with illegal firearms will meet justice,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “This sentence is necessary to protect the public and to send a clear message that fentanyl trafficking will not be tolerated.”
“The deadly fentanyl Denzel Meeks trafficked around the Twin Cities put our community members at risk,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Omaha Field Division Special Agent in Charge Dustin Gillespie. “Fentanyl is lethal in extremely small amounts and each dose removed by law enforcement, without a doubt, saved lives. Meeks peddled poison in our communities and for that, he now faces several years in a federal prison with no opportunity at parole.”
“The Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office West Metro Drug Task Force, which operates with funding provided by the High Intensity Drug Trafficking Area (HIDTA), played a critical role in this investigation, identifying Meeks as a suspected narcotics trafficker and executing search warrants that led to the seizure of fentanyl powder, cocaine, thousands of fentanyl pills, and illegally possessed firearms. We are grateful for the work of the U.S. Attorney’s Office whose efforts helped bring this case to a successful prosecution. This sends a clear message that those who traffic dangerous drugs and endanger our communities will be held accountable for their actions,” said Dawanna S. Witt, Sheriff of Hennepin County.
Meeks pleaded guilty on November 3, 2025, to one count of possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl.
Sentencing took place on June 23, 2026, before U.S. District Judge Donovan W. Frank in St. Paul.
Assistant U.S. Attorney David B. Green is prosecuting the case.
Armed Carjacker and Repeat Violent Offender Sentenced to 170 Months for Multiple Firearms Offenses while on Federal Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Cameron Davon Durand, 32, was sentenced to 170 months in federal prison for possession of a firearm as a felon in Minneapolis, Minnesota, and for discharging a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, namely, an armed carjacking in St. Paul, Minnesota. At the time of the offenses, Durand was serving a term of federal supervised release for a 2019 federal conviction for being a felon in possession of a firearm, for which he had been previously sentenced to 90 months’ imprisonment.
U.S. District Judge Donovan W. Frank imposed the sentence on June 22, 2026, following Durand’s guilty plea on December 17, 2025, to two federal counts and his admission to multiple supervised‑release violations stemming from the same violent conduct. The sentence consisted of 50 months’ imprisonment for the felon-in-possession conviction, and 120 months’ mandatory minimum imprisonment for the discharge of the firearm during the carjacking, consecutive to the felon-in-possession term of imprisonment, for a total of 170 months. The court also imposed 30 months’ imprisonment, concurrent with the 170-month term, for Durand’s supervised-release violations.
According to court-filed documents, Durand, already a multi‑convicted felon, was just one month into federal supervised release for his prior firearms federal conviction when he committed a series of new gun crimes during the summer of 2025. In June 2025, officers recovered a loaded 9mm firearm, with an attached red-dot sight, from his vehicle, later confirmed to contain Durand’s DNA. In the weeks that followed, Durand was captured on surveillance video firing another weapon in a densely populated St. Paul neighborhood outside a bar. Then, on July 18, 2025, Durand brandished a firearm, carjacked an Uber driver, chased the victim on foot, and fired a round at him as the victim ran for his life, before driving away in the carjacked vehicle.
Durand fled from responding officers at high speed, abandoned the carjacked vehicle, and escaped on foot with a firearm in his hand. Inside the victim’s car, police recovered Durand’s backpack containing multiple forms of his identification and 9mm ammunition. A discharged 9mm casing found at the scene of the carjacking matched the ammunition inside his backpack.
“This sentence ensures that a dangerous and escalating menace is no longer free to terrorize our communities,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Durand has demonstrated, repeatedly and over nearly two decades, that no term of supervision, no prior prison sentence, and no tragic personal history will deter him from armed violence. Today’s sentence protects the public and holds him accountable.”
“Durand is a violent offender, and he has been for a long time,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge Spence Burnett of the ATF St. Paul Field Division. “This is the second ATF investigation to hold him accountable. He has a record of using guns to threaten and harm people, and weeks out of federal prison from a prior ATF case he did it again, arming himself and shooting at an innocent man. He will serve 170 months in federal prison, and ATF will continue to stand with our partners to hold violent offenders accountable. We appreciate the great partnership with St. Paul Police Department on this case.”
Saint Paul Police Chief Axel Henry said, “This sentencing reflects the commitment of the Saint Paul Police Department, and our federal partners, to hold those who commit violent crimes accountable. Repeated, violent crimes, must be met with serious consequences. This case demonstrates that and hopefully lets those who have been victimized know that we stand with them and for them.”
Durand’s criminal history dating back to 2007 includes numerous felony convictions involving firearms, assaults, robbery, and gang‑related violence.
This case is the result of an investigation by the ATF, the Saint Paul Police Department, and the Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant United States Attorney Benjamin Bejar prosecuted the case.
Minneapolis Man Sentenced for Aiding and Abetting Violent CarjackingRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – On June 16, 2026, a Minneapolis man was sentenced to 90 months’ imprisonment after pleading guilty to aiding and abetting a violent carjacking that resulted in serious bodily injury to one of the victims, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
According to court documents, on August 24, 2024, Havion Eddie Amaru Holmes, 24, and another male approached a parked vehicle occupied by a woman and a man in Minneapolis. The two men approached the vehicle, one on the driver’s side and the other on the passenger’s side, each armed with a handgun. Both victims were pulled from the vehicle, and the other male pointed his firearm at them. Both victims were struck with a firearm, the man in the neck and in the back, and the woman twice in the head and then in the nose. Holmes and the other man then entered the vehicle and drove away.
Minutes later, law enforcement spotted the vehicle and attempted to pull it over, but Holmes and the other man fled, leading officers on a high-speed pursuit through a residential area before crashing into another car. Both men fled the scene on foot. Officers apprehended Holmes shortly afterward, discovering a tool and screwdriver on his person. The two handguns used in the carjacking were located nearby, in Holmes’ flight path the crash site which were described as the handguns used during the carjacking.
This case is the result of an investigation by the Minneapolis Police Department and the FBI.
Special Assistant U.S. Attorney Jeanne Semivan is prosecuting the case.
Minneapolis Father and Son Indicted in Fraud ConspiracyRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today the unsealing of an indictment on June 11, 2026, charging a father and son with conspiracy to defraud the United States and making false claims for tax refunds. The father was also charged with felon in possession of a firearm.
According to court documents and proceedings, between approximately June 2022 and October 2024, LaMar Javis Burgess, 44, and his son, LaMar Dazjar Burgess, 23, of the Minneapolis area, prepared and filed false federal income tax returns for themselves and others claiming refund amounts they and the other taxpayers were not entitled to receive. Tax returns containing millions of dollars in false claims were allegedly filed by the conspirators.
During the course of the conspiracy, LaMar Javis Burgess allegedly sought and obtained videos and instruction manuals educating himself on how to file false federal tax returns, including a guide titled “TurboTax Sauce the ‘Self-Employed’ Way.” He worked with his son and other conspirators to promote the tax fraud scheme. In exchange for filing false tax returns, he allegedly charged taxpayers a portion of their tax refunds as his fee.
The defendants allegedly solicited others to provide them with their names, addresses, social security numbers, photographic identification, and bank account information to prepare and file the false tax returns. The returns allegedly included employment and tax credit information they knew to be false.
The defendants allegedly prepared and filed false 2021 tax returns claiming refundable sick and family leave tax credits available to certain self-employed individuals unable to work due to COVID-19. They also allegedly prepared and filed false 2022 tax returns claiming certain refundable tax credits.
LaMar Javis Burgess allegedly was also found in possession of a Glock model 19, 9 mm semi-automatic handgun.
LaMar Javis Burgess has prior convictions in Hennepin County for illegally possessing a firearm as a person who is prohibited from having one and fourth degree assault of a peace officer. He also has a prior felony conviction in the District of Minnesota for felon in possession of a firearm. According to the indictment, because of these prior convictions, LaMar Javis Burgess is prohibited under federal law from possessing firearms or ammunition at any time.
LaMar Javis Burgess and LaMar Dazjar Burgess were both charged with one count each of conspiracy to defraud the United States and six counts each of making false claims. LaMar Javis Burgess was also charged with one count of being a felon in possession of a firearm. If convicted, they face maximum penalties of ten years in prison for conspiracy and five years in prison for each count of making false claims. LaMar Javis Burgess also faces a maximum penalty of 15 years in prison for felon in possession of a firearm.
The Court ordered LaMar Javis Burgess detained in federal custody pending trial, following his initial appearance and detention hearing.
“Fraud against the United States is a serious offense and those who fabricate returns or misuse information to enrich themselves will be held accountable. Our office remains committed to safeguarding the integrity of federal tax programs and protecting the public from those who seek to exploit them,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“This father and son duo turned filing fraudulent tax returns into a family business,” said Adam Jobes, Special Agent in Charge, IRS Criminal Investigation, Chicago Field Office. “False refund claims steal from every honest taxpayer who follows the law and pays their fair share. IRS-CI special agents will continue using their expertise in forensic accounting to expose tax fraud schemes and bring fraudulent tax preparers to justice.”
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case, with assistance from FBI, HSI, ATF, Minneapolis Police Department, Fridley Police Department, Ramsey County Sheriff’s Office, and Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office.
Trial Attorney J. Parker Gochenour of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section and Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca Kline of the District of Minnesota are prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Sioux Falls Man Pleads Guilty to Fentanyl Trafficking, Which Resulted in Pipestone DeathRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – A North Dakota man has pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 240 months’ imprisonment for conspiracy to distribute fentanyl, which resulted in the accidental fatal fentanyl poisoning of a young man in the Pipestone, Minnesota, area, announced U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
According to court documents, Jake Noland Northern, aka “Jake Noal Northern,” admitted that from at least February 2023 through April 21, 2023, he knowingly and intentionally distributed pressed fentanyl pills to users and distributors across southwestern Minnesota. Northern operated his distribution network from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, where he sold both personal‑use and bulk quantities of fentanyl pills, including to individuals who further distributed the drugs in the Pipestone community.
On April 21, 2023, Northern sold pressed fentanyl pills to an individual for roughly $200. That evening, the victim consumed Northern’s fentanyl and subsequently died due to accidental fentanyl poisoning.
Northern admitted during his plea that he knowingly and voluntarily conspired to possess and distribute fentanyl pills and acknowledged that his conduct violated federal law. He also acknowledged a prior federal conviction for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute cocaine, for which he received a sentence of 96 months’ imprisonment. That conviction increased the penalties in this case.
“[The victim] deserves to be remembered for the beautiful soul he was, not for the way he died. I hope that through this process, his story can bring awareness to the dangers of fentanyl and help save others from this tragedy,” said a person close to the victim.
“Fentanyl has stolen lives, fractured families, and destabilized entire communities across Minnesota,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “Northern treated addiction as an opportunity and people as profit. This office will continue to pursue federal sentences for traffickers whose actions bring deadly fentanyl into Minnesota communities. We extend our condolences to the victim’s family, friends, and community and will continue to work with partners around the state to find, investigate, and prosecute those who bring this lethal drug into our communities.”
“This case shows the devastating reality and impact fentanyl has on our community,” said Lt. Edison Dengler, of the Pipestone County Sheriff’s Office and Buffalo Ridge Drug and Violent Crime Task Force. “A young man lost his life, a family was forever changed, and our community continues to feel the devastating effects. We are thankful for the long hours, dedication, and teamwork of all the local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies involved in this investigation, as well as the overwhelming support of the Pipestone County Attorney’s Office and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Minnesota. From the start of this investigation in April of 2023 through today’s sentencing more than three years later, this case required persistence, cooperation, and a shared commitment to justice. Jake Noland Northern’s 240-month federal sentence sends a strong message that those who traffic fentanyl into Pipestone County and poison our community will be held accountable. We will not stop working to protect our citizens, support victims and families, and hold drug traffickers accountable.”
This case is the result of an investigation conducted by the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, the Buffalo Ridge Drug and Violent Crime Task Force, the Pipestone County Sheriff’s Office, and the Drug Enforcement Administration. Additional assistance was provided by the Sioux Falls Area Drug Task Force, the South Dakota Division of Criminal Investigation, the North Dakota Bureau of Criminal Investigation, the Fargo Police Department, the Globe Police Department (AZ), and the Mid-State Organized Crime Information Center.
The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Matthew D. Evans.
Brothers Plead Guilty in $8 Million Armed Cryptocurrency Kidnapping CaseRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that the Garcia brothers pleaded guilty in connection with their roles in a September 2025 armed robbery of a family in Grant, Minnesota and the theft of more than $8 million in digital assets.
This afternoon, before U.S. District Judge Ann D. Montgomery, Isiah Angelo Garcia, 25, and Raymond Christian Garcia, 24, both of Waller, Texas, entered guilty pleas to one count each of Interference with Commerce by Robbery.
According to court documents, on the morning of September 19, 2025, the Garcia brothers, who had traveled from Texas to Minnesota for the purpose of executing the scheme, kidnapped Victim 1 and his family at gunpoint at their home. During the offense, the defendants demanded access to the victim’s cryptocurrency accounts, zip-tied Victim 1 and his family, and held the family at gunpoint for over 8 hours. Isiah Garcia, aided and abetted by his brother, abducted Victim 1 to the family’s cabin in northern Minnesota, where he forced Victim 1 to retrieve additional cryptocurrency storage devices and transfer the funds contained therein. The Garcia brothers ultimately forced Victim 1 to transfer more than $8 million in cryptocurrency funds in the course of the scheme. After the victim’s son called 911, the Garcias fled the area. Law enforcement responded to the family home, where they found numerous items left behind by the defendants. Law enforcement then used those items to identify the Garcias and locate them near Houston, Texas, where they were arrested.
In their guilty pleas, both defendants admitted to using firearms to threaten the victims and facilitate the robbery. They agreed to pay over $8 million in restitution and each face a maximum sentence of 20 years in federal prison. Sentencing hearings will be scheduled at a later date.
“Violent schemes carried out for financial gain undermine the safety and security of our communities. When individuals resort to intimidation and force, they can expect a swift and unified law enforcement response. The guilty pleas entered today reflect our commitment to holding the defendants accountable for the choices they made,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen.
“No one should ever feel unsafe in their own home," said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. "The kinds of violence and greed displayed by Raymond and Isiah Garcia will always be aggressively investigated by the FBI and our law enforcement partners. Thanks to the seamless partnership between the FBI, Washington County Sheriff's Office, and state and local law enforcement agencies from here to Texas, these defendants will now face sentencing in federal court. Home invasions, kidnapping, and robberies carry lasting impacts on victims and our communities. We hope this conviction will bring some measure of peace to the victims of this horrendous crime.”
“This crime struck close to home for many people in our area. It shook not only the victims involved, but it disrupted lives, created fear, and left residents wondering how something so violent could happen here. I’m proud of the work done by our investigators, deputies, law enforcement partners, and prosecutors who helped move this case forward. Today’s proceedings mark an important step toward accountability and justice for our community,” said Washington County Sheriff Dan Starry.
This matter is the result of an investigation conducted by the FBI and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Rebecca E. Kline is prosecuting the case.
Note: A previous press release on this case can be found here.
15 Members of Direct Action Minnesota, a Minneapolis-Based Direct Action Group with Antifa Ties, IndictedRead the Press Release
Note: View indictment here.
MINNEAPOLIS – The Justice Department today announced that 15 members and associates of Direct Action Minnesota (DAMN) have been charged with various federal crimes, including conspiracy to impede a federal officer, multiple counts of interstate stalking, interstate threats, solicitation to commit a crime of violence, multiple counts of assault on a federal officer, and destruction of government property.
Over the last 24 hours, federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted a coordinated law enforcement operation culminating in the arrest of 12 DAMN members. Two DAMN members are at-large, and one was previously in federal custody on separate charges.
“As alleged, these defendants, which included members of Antifa groups, engaged in an unrelenting campaign of harassment and violence targeting federal and local law enforcement,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Their actions created a dangerous environment that threatened not only their intended targets, but the community as a whole. These arrests demonstrate the Department’s commitment to law and order and stopping organized political violence in Minneapolis and beyond.”
“The arrests of these rioters is a win for law and order. If you lay a hand on law enforcement, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin. “We have ZERO tolerance for violence against our law enforcement. If you assault or obstruct law enforcement, you will face the consequences.”
“For those who choose to threaten or harm federal officers, the Department of Justice will hold you accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen for the District of Minnesota. “The direct actions alleged in the indictment are un-American. And they will be met with swift justice.”
“Today’s announcement is the result of a thorough investigation into a deeply troubling trend: coordinated violence targeting federal law enforcement officers in an effort to cause chaos and impede law enforcement operations,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of HSI St. Paul. “We have uncovered evidence of organized groups deliberately planning and executing criminal acts, including assaults, threats, destruction of government property, and attempts to impede federal officers. We fully respect and defend the First Amendment right to peaceful protest. However, when protest crosses the line into violence or criminal activity, it becomes unlawful and will not be tolerated. Our message is clear: you may disagree with the laws, and you have the right to protest them, but you must abide by them or face the consequences. The law is not optional, and any attempt to undermine it through violence or intimidation will be met with swift and decisive action.”
“The charges unsealed today in the District of Minnesota are directly in line with Joint Task Force Vanguard’s mission: a collaborative, whole of government effort to counter groups that use violence and the threat of violence to achieve political ends,” said Co-Director Brian Lynch of Joint Task Force Vanguard. “Acts of political violence are priority matters for federal law enforcement and will be zealously investigated and prosecuted.”
An eight-count indictment charges 15 members and associates of the DAMN for a broad range of crimes including conspiracy to impede a federal officer, multiple counts of interstate stalking, interstate threats, solicitation to commit a crime of violence, multiple counts of assault on a federal officer, and destruction of government property.
As outlined in the indictment, DAMN is an organization dedicated and committed to direct action against federal law and immigration enforcement. Direct action refers to disruptive and obstructive tactics used by participants to forcibly challenge, block, or stop immigration raids, detentions, and deportations. DAMN describes itself as “…a decentralized coalition of working-class people engaged in various forms of community defense against the current Federal Occupation happening within the wider metro area, and against state and a far-right violence more broadly.” DAMN also trains its members in the use of shields against law enforcement, surveillance, event planning, role differentiation, and rapid mass mobilization against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) enforcement actions.
DAMN is comprised of members from several sub-groups, such as the Black Cat Worker’s Collective, Ray Rainbolt Memorial Shooting Club, and other organizations.
Many self-proclaimed “antifascist” or “Antifa” groups in the United States exist at the local level, in small units called affinity groups. Antifa groups frequently blend anarchist and communist views. The Black Cat Worker’s Collective (BCWC) is a Minneapolis-based Antifa affinity group committed to militant class struggle, community self-defense, and revolution. Militant class struggle includes disrupting rallies, digital campaigning, community organizing, and physical confrontation, often justified as collective self-defense. BCWC members advocate, promote, and utilize militant tactics and violence. BCWC members are intricately involved in the planning and execution of direct actions. The Ray Rainbolt Memorial Shooting Club is another Minneapolis-based Antifa affinity group dedicated to “community self-defense.”
The Black Cat Worker’s Collective Facebook page described that, “The Black Cat Worker’s Collective is a class struggle anarchist organization committed to workplace struggle, housing justice, community self-defense, internationalism, and revolution.”
On February 5, Kyle Wagner was arrested in Minneapolis for doxxing a federal agent in the Eastern District of Michigan. When he was arrested, Wagner wore a sweatshirt that had “I’m Antifa!” on the front. Law enforcement recovered several Antifa patches in Wagner’s residence. See below.
Antifa patches recovered by law enforcement at Wagner’s residence.
Wagner being arrested.
DAMN members worked closely with rapid response networks (RRNs) to identify and harass federal immigration and law enforcement officers in order to harass and prevent officers from performing their official duties. RRNs are “inherently militant” with the “explicit aim of combating and stopping a federal agent with a gun.”
DAMN worked closely with other direct action groups, Antifa affinity groups, RRNs, and other organizations to plan for and execute certain direct actions. DAMN infiltrated and exploited lawful protests to more efficiently carry out its direct actions targeting operations involving ICE as well as supporting federal and state law enforcement. DAMN relied upon otherwise lawful protesters and “strength in numbers” to distract law enforcement and enable DAMN members to carry out its direct action operations.
DAMN members almost exclusively communicate on Signal Messenger, which is an encrypted message application. DAMN members often organize themselves into different sub-groups on Signal Messenger based on their roles and responsibilities.
DAMN members hold meetings on a regular basis. DAMN members advocate and practice “operational security” or “OPSEC.” For example, DAMN members collect cell phones prior to meetings to prevent recordings.
DAMN members organized and participated in direct actions against federal and local law enforcement on Jan. 23 and March 1. DAMN members deployed “hard” and “soft” blockades against federal law and immigration enforcement as well as against Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office deputies during both of the direct actions. DAMN successfully shut down operations at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building (Whipple Building), during both direct actions.
Members of DAMN’s “hard blockade” team used vehicles, trailers, Czech hedgehogs (a static obstacle made of metal angle beams), and other items to obstruct the roads used by law enforcement near the Whipple Building to impede the movement of federal law enforcement and immigration officers. See below for examples of items used for “hard blockade” during the January 23 and March 1 direct actions.
A flipped trailer used by DAMN during a blockade.
Debris and a Czech hedgehog used by DAMN during a blockade.
Members of the “soft blockade” team wield homemade shields constructed from plastic, wood, and metal to physically resist the efforts of law enforcement, and to aggressively “wedge” or break through teams of officers on foot. See below for one of the “soft blockades” that was set up on March 1.
“Soft blockade” by DAMN on March 1.“Soft blockade” by DAMN on March 1.
DAMN members engage in “commuting” tactics, which include identifying, following, surveilling, harassing, and confronting federal immigration enforcement with the goal of preventing, hindering, delaying, and impeding the enforcement of federal immigration law. DAMN members use the Whipple Watch Signal group chat, which facilitated the identification of federal immigration and law enforcement vehicles and documents identifying information, such as license plate numbers, in databases. The databases include information like whether a vehicle has been identified as belonging to federal law enforcement, when it was last seen, how many times it was seen, the kinds of activities it was engaged in, if it was in a caravan, and if someone saw federal agents with tactical gear inside, all to help determine how aggressive the response to that particular vehicle should be. DAMN members often rely on information and intelligence produced by the Whipple Watch and other Signal group chats to target, harass, and confront federal immigration and law enforcement officers. Once someone relays information about a federal immigration or law enforcement officer’s location, “dispatchers” relay “verified” information to “commuters,” who deploy to the identified area to interfere with, prevent, hinder, delay, impede, and directly confront federal immigration enforcement, including “de-arresting” people that federal law enforcement have arrested.
“Commuters” follow federal immigration enforcement officers from locations, like the Whipple Building, to the officers’ residences and other locations. “Commuters” often work with “co-pilots,” who communicate with “dispatchers” in real-time. “Dispatchers” relay identifying information about immigration and law enforcement vehicles to “commuters” and “co-pilots.” DAMN members often engage in “commuting” tactics with other members.
For example, on May 4, a federal immigration officer left the Whipple Building in his government-issued vehicle. DAMN member Isaac Sant drove a Hyundai Sonata and followed the federal immigration officer from the Whipple Building to Hudson, Wisconsin. St. Croix County deputies stopped the Hyundai Sonata in Hudson, Wisconsin, and identified Sant as the driver.
On May 18, a federal immigration officer left the Whipple Building in his government-issued vehicle. DAMN member Natasha Rakotz drove a Honda Civic and followed the federal immigration officer from the Whipple Building to the area of Minnesota State Highway 55 and Minnesota State Highway 5. Rakotz “brake checked” the officer and “side swiped” the officer’s vehicle, causing a collision.
Below is an image of Natasha Rakotz ramming her Honda Civic into the federal immigration officer’s government-issued vehicle.
Image of Natasha Rakotz trying to ram her Honda Civic into a federal immigration officer’s government-issued vehicle.
On May 15, an unindicted coconspirator sent a message describing a HSI agent’s government-issued vehicle as well as his license plate number in the “Whipple 3.0” Signal group chat. The unindicted coconspirator described the government-issued vehicle having a “reflective hat & vest on dash.” In the same chat, an unindicted coconspirator referred a different government-issued vehicle in the area (Government Vehicle 2) and stated, “This vehicle was confirmed at whip and hasn’t been added to the DB (database) – currently near the 28th and Bloom situation.” DAMN member Isaac sant sent a message in the “DAMN” Signal group chat, stating, “Alerta alerta: There’s an ICE raid in progress RIGHT NOW at 28th and Bloomington. Ford F150…” Sant provided the license plate number for the government-issued vehicle and continued, “three agents out of vehicle. I am not on scene. Get over there if you can!” DAMN member Brian Apland responded, “Omw (on my way).” At this time, HSI agents were performing their duties and conducting interviews. DAMN member William Morgan showed up to the scene and approached one of the agents and knocked the agent’s notes out of his hand. Morgan also kicked the government-issued vehicle, causing dents. Isaac Sant was also present at the scene. Below is the damage to the government-issued vehicle.
Government vehicle damaged by member of DAMN.
Below is an image of William Morgan and Isaac Sant on the scene.
A member of DAMN at the scene of a damaged government vehicle.
A member of DAMN at the scene of a damaged government vehicle.
DAMN members trained other direct action and Antifa affinity groups throughout the country about how to forcibly obstruct, prevent, delay, hinder, and impede federal immigration enforcement operations. These trainings were referred to as the “Anarchist Speaking Tour.” DAMN members provided training and best practice at “Anarchist Speaking Tour” events in Chicago, Ann Arbor, and Seattle in April 2026.
On April 8, DAMN members Callum Robinet, William Morgan, and others took part in the “Anarchist Speaking Tour” in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Robinet explained to the participants that, “So this is an anarchist speaking tour. We’re all anarchists.”
On April 18, DAMN members Isaac Sant, Cameron Kennedy, and William Morgan took part in the “Anarchist Speaking Tour” in Seattle, Washington. Kennedy described the history of violent resistance in Minneapolis. He described the looting and burning of the Minneapolis Police Department’s Third Precinct as “the happiest moment of my life.” Kennedy explained, “A lot of mutual aid networks that were later characterized…this resistance to ICE came from the George Floyd uprising.” Kennedy described himself as a “revolutionary anarchist.”
Kennedy discussed the Jan. 23 direct action at the Whipple Building, stating that DAMN utilized a “soft blockade with shields at one entrance. He continued that there were “two other deployment teams…those deployment teams had trailers that they had bought off of Facebook Marketplace for really cheap and they essentially tried to blockade the other entrances simultaneously with this blockade (pointed to soft blockade on the projector). One of those trailers was deployed and flipped and successfully shut access. The other was about 30 seconds away from successful deployment before the team was actually pepper sprayed. They managed to avoid arrest…and they managed to drive away, albeit losing the trailer in the process.”
Kennedy also spoke about the direct action at the Whipple Building on March 1. Kennedy pointed to a projector screen and said, “the one you see over here is another shield wall on March 1st.” He continued, “this demonstration had four components to it. There was a above ground march that was led by indigenous sundancers that would take up gate one of the Whipple Building and the others were designed to essentially shut down the other two points of egress…there was 3 deployment teams. The first deployment team brought in shields.” The second deployment team “was sent in and they had something to be like tank busters…” Kennedy described these items as similar to “images of like D-Day, they’re like the metal X structures that you see and actually when the vehicles hit them, it digs back into the road and will stop the vehicle.” Kennedy explained, “I was on deploy 2 or deploy 3 and I had a 10-foot U-Haul box truck and a 30-foot trailer that I was going to use to block one of the entrances.”
Isaac Sant said, “We’re here from Minneapolis. We’re on tour to talk about our experiences resisting the ICE occupation.” He stated, “I think the Twin Cities real contributions to the field of revolutionary organization, of insurrectionary organization is these rapid response networks.” Sant stated, “I am in an anarchist, revolutionary organization. It’s called Blackcat.”
During the event, Sant discussed the logistics of “commuters,” who follow, harass, and confront federal immigration enforcement vehicles. Sant described, “…commuters were on a phone call in real time with a dispatcher who was somewhere with a dispatcher who was somewhere in the privacy of her own room reporting on like that convoys movements. That dispatcher was in a relay chat that allowed for communication between the Elliott Park and the adjacent Loring Park neighborhood…” Sant further explained, “We don’t recommend that anybody ever commute or control by yourself because it’s an inherently dangerous thing. So you always want to do that with a buddy who’s your copilot. So like you’re driving and looking for ice, your co-pilots on the phone talking to dispatch and however many other commuters on a Signal call…you might ask that dispatcher for plate checks, like they’re looking at a database of license plates and you’re not. And you might be like, so a lot of like your day and you’re like, hey I wonder if that’s ICE…And like you see a suspicious looking white Jeep Wagoneer, your copilot like reports a dispatch…and then you follow that car until you can’t anymore.” Sant then described Whipple Watch as a “counter surveillance project,” stating, “This is a very like boring and unglamorous and unsexy side of our work, but basically what I and my comrades do is we go down to Whipple building and hang out there all day and photograph every ICE vehicle that’s coming in and out of the vehicle.” Sant continued that, “Now in April and we have it down to a science and it’s more or less instantaneous. We maintain a searchable database in conjunction with data collection group called Defrost that’s publicly searchable on a website…Defrost is the list of every vehicle that we’ve ever seen ICE in make and model plates and like where and how many times it’s been spotted…So what we’ve started to experiment with now is we maintain a second database that’s only current plates. We erase it at the end of every night and we refresh it the next morning…and hot dishes is just a database of like all the active plates that left Whipple that day. So commuters can know like what we’re, we have confirmed on the road at the moment….What we do is, I mean we have a two fold motive of like getting their plates and blasting those out to all the neighborhoods and also just like wasting their time and resources.”
DAMN members emphasize a violent, militant approach and are highly critical of the non-violent, peaceful protests. DAMN members often advocate, promote, and celebrate violent resistance to purported fascist groups and the government.
For example, the Black Cat Worker’s Collective Facebook cover page reads “Welcome to Minneapolis!” and has an image of the Minneapolis Police Department’s Third Precinct in the background. The Minneapolis Police Department’s Third Precinct was burnt down and destroyed during the riots following the death of George Floyd. Stillshot from the Black Cat Worker’s Collective Facebook page below.
Screenshot of the Black Cat Worker’s Collective Facebook page.
On Feb. 5, Cameron Kennedy posted on Facebook, “I swear I’m going to lose my f*****g mind if I see that ‘if 3.5% of the population is committed to peaceful revolution, they win’ bulls**t…It’s given far to (sic) many well meaning people, a fake a** idea of what it takes to win. It has folks attacking militant elements of the resistance and aiding the state against them because they think violence or even property destruction is counter revolutionary. They could not be more wrong. I want to make this as clear as I can: YOU WILL NEVER WIN WITH NON-VIOLENCE ALONE. Ever. No one has. No one will. You absolutely need militants to win. I’m sorry the world is so cruel but this is the real world, not a f*****g fairytale…” See post below.
Facebook post by Cameron Kennedy.
On Jan. 24, Kyle Wagner posted a video on his Instagram account “kaos.follows,” while wearing a bullet-proof vest. Wagner admitted to being Antifa. Wagner stated, “[I]f you are [caught up], it’s time to suit up. Boots on the ground. Nicollet and f*****g 26th. My house is four blocks away. Anywhere between Franklin and Nicollet, and 26th and Nicollet, show up ready to go. Okay, no, not talking about peaceful protests anymore. We’re not talking about having polite conversations anymore…This is exactly what I said was going to f****** come when we didn’t f****** go march on f****** Whipple with guns. Sorry but welcome to America 2026 where the Second Amendment is the only thing that’s going to keep you f****** protected from literal f****** Nazi gun men that are killing innocent people in the street with impunity. This is not a f****** joke. There’s nothing fun to chant about it. Get your f****** guns and stop these f****** people.” Stillshot of Wagner from the video below.
Screenshot of Kyle Wagner in a video from his Instagram page.
The following defendants are named in the DAMN indictment:
- Isaac Auman Sant, also known as “Isaac Dalto” and “Ike,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer and Interstate Stalking.
- Emmett James Doyle, also known as “Plotnikov,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Cameron Kennedy, also known as “Cam,” “Olive Knite,” and “Knite,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Callum Robinet, also known as “Juliet K,” “Juliet,” and “Cal,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Erik Davis, also known as “Errico,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Brian Stillwell Apland, also known as “Tiny,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Kyle Wagner, also known as “Kaos,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer, Solicitation to Commit a Crime of Violence, and Interstate Threats.
- Hannah Margaret Van De Water Davis, also known as “Gabriel Van De Water” and “Nube,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Treasure Cay Thoreson, also known as “Schatzi,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Nathan Junho Kim, also known as “Moon Bear,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Alec Stewart, also known as “Mac,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Douglas Misterek, also known as “Doug” and “D Munny Big Dog Orf Orf,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Dustin Scott Beisell, also known as “Sparky,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- William Morgan, also known as “Willow” and “Willow Tree,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer, Interstate Stalking, Assault on a Federal Officer, and Destruction of Government Property.
- Natasha Rakotz, also known as “Anuran,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer and Assault on a Federal Officer.
This case was investigated by HSI.
This case is part of the nationwide National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 initiative, which is a White House directed, interagency effort to integrate federal, state, and local partners in protecting First Amendment rights while targeting individuals and organizations engaged in political violence and is led by the investigative and prosecutorial Joint Task Force Vanguard.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
15 Members of Direct Action Minnesota, a Minneapolis-Based Direct Action Group with Antifa Ties, IndictedRead the Press Release
Note: View indictment here.
The Justice Department today announced that 15 members and associates of Direct Action Minnesota (DAMN) have been charged with various federal crimes, including conspiracy to impede a federal officer, multiple counts of interstate stalking, interstate threats, solicitation to commit a crime of violence, multiple counts of assault on a federal officer, and destruction of government property.
Over the last 24 hours, federal agents with Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) conducted a coordinated law enforcement operation culminating in the arrest of 12 DAMN members. Two DAMN members are at-large, and one was previously in federal custody on separate charges.
“As alleged, these defendants, which included members of Antifa groups, engaged in an unrelenting campaign of harassment and violence targeting federal and local law enforcement,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “Their actions created a dangerous environment that threatened not only their intended targets, but the community as a whole. These arrests demonstrate the Department’s commitment to law and order and stopping organized political violence in Minneapolis and beyond.”
“The arrests of these rioters is a win for law and order. If you lay a hand on law enforcement, you will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin. “We have ZERO tolerance for violence against our law enforcement. If you assault or obstruct law enforcement, you will face the consequences.”
“For those who choose to threaten or harm federal officers, the Department of Justice will hold you accountable,” said U.S. Attorney Daniel N. Rosen for the District of Minnesota. “The direct actions alleged in the indictment are un-American. And they will be met with swift justice.”
“Today’s announcement is the result of a thorough investigation into a deeply troubling trend: coordinated violence targeting federal law enforcement officers in an effort to cause chaos and impede law enforcement operations,” said Special Agent in Charge Michael McCarthy of HSI St. Paul. “We have uncovered evidence of organized groups deliberately planning and executing criminal acts, including assaults, threats, destruction of government property, and attempts to impede federal officers. We fully respect and defend the First Amendment right to peaceful protest. However, when protest crosses the line into violence or criminal activity, it becomes unlawful and will not be tolerated. Our message is clear: you may disagree with the laws, and you have the right to protest them, but you must abide by them or face the consequences. The law is not optional, and any attempt to undermine it through violence or intimidation will be met with swift and decisive action.”
“The charges unsealed today in the District of Minnesota are directly in line with Joint Task Force Vanguard’s mission: a collaborative, whole of government effort to counter groups that use violence and the threat of violence to achieve political ends,” said Co-Director Brian Lynch of Joint Task Force Vanguard. “Acts of political violence are priority matters for federal law enforcement and will be zealously investigated and prosecuted.”
An eight-count indictment charges 15 members and associates of the DAMN for a broad range of crimes including conspiracy to impede a federal officer, multiple counts of interstate stalking, interstate threats, solicitation to commit a crime of violence, multiple counts of assault on a federal officer, and destruction of government property.
As outlined in the indictment, DAMN is an organization dedicated and committed to direct action against federal law and immigration enforcement. Direct action refers to disruptive and obstructive tactics used by participants to forcibly challenge, block, or stop immigration raids, detentions, and deportations. DAMN describes itself as “…a decentralized coalition of working-class people engaged in various forms of community defense against the current Federal Occupation happening within the wider metro area, and against state and a far-right violence more broadly.” DAMN also trains its members in the use of shields against law enforcement, surveillance, event planning, role differentiation, and rapid mass mobilization against U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) enforcement actions.
DAMN is comprised of members from several sub-groups, such as the Black Cat Worker’s Collective, Ray Rainbolt Memorial Shooting Club, and other organizations.
Many self-proclaimed “antifascist” or “Antifa” groups in the United States exist at the local level, in small units called affinity groups. Antifa groups frequently blend anarchist and communist views. The Black Cat Worker’s Collective (BCWC) is a Minneapolis-based Antifa affinity group committed to militant class struggle, community self-defense, and revolution. Militant class struggle includes disrupting rallies, digital campaigning, community organizing, and physical confrontation, often justified as collective self-defense. BCWC members advocate, promote, and utilize militant tactics and violence. BCWC members are intricately involved in the planning and execution of direct actions. The Ray Rainbolt Memorial Shooting Club is another Minneapolis-based Antifa affinity group dedicated to “community self-defense.”
The Black Cat Worker’s Collective Facebook page described that, “The Black Cat Worker’s Collective is a class struggle anarchist organization committed to workplace struggle, housing justice, community self defense, internationalism, and revolution.”
On Feb. 5, Kyle Wagner was arrested in Minneapolis for doxxing a federal agent in the Eastern District of Michigan. When he was arrested, Wagner wore a sweatshirt that had “I’m Antifa!” on the front. Law enforcement recovered several Antifa patches in Wagner’s residence. See below.
Antifa patches recovered by law enforcement at Wagner’s residence. Wagner being arrested.DAMN members worked closely with rapid response networks (RRNs) to identify and harass federal immigration and law enforcement officers in order to harass and prevent officers from performing their official duties. RRNs are “inherently militant” with the “explicit aim of combating and stopping a federal agent with a gun.”
DAMN worked closely with other direct action groups, Antifa affinity groups, RRNs, and other organizations to plan for and execute certain direct actions. DAMN infiltrated and exploited lawful protests to more efficiently carry out its direct actions targeting operations involving ICE as well as supporting federal and state law enforcement. DAMN relied upon otherwise lawful protesters and “strength in numbers” to distract law enforcement and enable DAMN members to carry out its direct action operations.
DAMN members almost exclusively communicate on Signal Messenger, which is an encrypted message application. DAMN members often organize themselves into different sub-groups on Signal Messenger based on their roles and responsibilities.
DAMN members hold meetings on a regular basis. DAMN members advocate and practice “operational security” or “OPSEC.” For example, DAMN members collect cell phones prior to meetings to prevent recordings.
DAMN members organized and participated in direct actions against federal and local law enforcement on Jan. 23 and March 1. DAMN members deployed “hard” and “soft” blockades against federal law and immigration enforcement as well as against Hennepin County Sheriff’s Office deputies during both of the direct actions. DAMN successfully shut down operations at the Bishop Henry Whipple Federal Building (Whipple Building), during both direct actions.
Members of DAMN’s “hard blockade” team used vehicles, trailers, Czech hedgehogs (a static obstacle made of metal angle beams), and other items to obstruct the roads used by law enforcement near the Whipple Building to impede the movement of federal law enforcement and immigration officers. See below for examples of items used for “hard blockade” during the January 23 and March 1 direct actions.
A flipped trailer used by DAMN during a blockade. Debris and a Czech hedgehog used by DAMN during a blockade.Members of the “soft blockade” team wield homemade shields constructed from plastic, wood, and metal to physically resist the efforts of law enforcement, and to aggressively “wedge” or break through teams of officers on foot. See below for one of the “soft blockades” that was set up on March 1.
“Soft blockade” by DAMN on March 1. “Soft blockade” by DAMN on March 1.DAMN members engage in “commuting” tactics, which include identifying, following, surveilling, harassing, and confronting federal immigration enforcement with the goal of preventing, hindering, delaying, and impeding the enforcement of federal immigration law. DAMN members use the Whipple Watch Signal group chat, which facilitated the identification of federal immigration and law enforcement vehicles and documents identifying information, such as license plate numbers, in databases. The databases include information like whether a vehicle has been identified as belonging to federal law enforcement, when it was last seen, how many times it was seen, the kinds of activities it was engaged in, if it was in a caravan, and if someone saw federal agents with tactical gear inside, all to help determine how aggressive the response to that particular vehicle should be. DAMN members often rely on information and intelligence produced by the Whipple Watch and other Signal group chats to target, harass, and confront federal immigration and law enforcement officers. Once someone relays information about a federal immigration or law enforcement officer’s location, “dispatchers” relay “verified” information to “commuters,” who deploy to the identified area to interfere with, prevent, hinder, delay, impede, and directly confront federal immigration enforcement, including “de-arresting” people that federal law enforcement have arrested.
“Commuters” follow federal immigration enforcement officers from locations, like the Whipple Building, to the officers’ residences and other locations. “Commuters” often work with “co-pilots,” who communicate with “dispatchers” in real-time. “Dispatchers” relay identifying information about immigration and law enforcement vehicles to “commuters” and “co-pilots.” DAMN members often engage in “commuting” tactics with other members.
For example, on May 4, a federal immigration officer left the Whipple Building in his government-issued vehicle. DAMN member Isaac Sant drove a Hyundai Sonata and followed the federal immigration officer from the Whipple Building to Hudson, Wisconsin. St. Croix County deputies stopped the Hyundai Sonata in Hudson, Wisconsin, and identified Sant as the driver.
On May 18, a federal immigration officer left the Whipple Building in his government-issued vehicle. DAMN member Natasha Rakotz drove a Honda Civic and followed the federal immigration officer from the Whipple Building to the area of Minnesota State Highway 55 and Minnesota State Highway 5. Rakotz “brake checked” the officer and “side swiped” the officer’s vehicle, causing a collision.
Below is an image of Natasha Rakotz ramming her Honda Civic into the federal immigration officer’s government-issued vehicle.
Image of Natasha Rakotz trying to ram her Honda Civic into a federal immigration officer’s government-issued vehicle.On May 15, an unindicted coconspirator sent a message describing a HSI agent’s government-issued vehicle as well as his license plate number in the “Whipple 3.0” Signal group chat. The unindicted coconspirator described the government-issued vehicle having a “reflective hat & vest on dash.” In the same chat, an unindicted coconspirator referred a different government-issued vehicle in the area (Government Vehicle 2) and stated, “This vehicle was confirmed at whip and hasn’t been added to the DB (database) – currently near the 28th and Bloom situation.” DAMN member Isaac sant sent a message in the “DAMN” Signal group chat, stating, “Alerta alerta: There’s an ICE raid in progress RIGHT NOW at 28th and Bloomington. Ford F150…” Sant provided the license plate number for the government-issued vehicle and continued, “three agents out of vehicle. I am not on scene. Get over there if you can!” DAMN member Brian Apland responded, “Omw (on my way).” At this time, HSI agents were performing their duties and conducting interviews. DAMN member William Morgan showed up to the scene and approached one of the agents and knocked the agent’s notes out of his hand. Morgan also kicked the government-issued vehicle, causing dents. Isaac Sant was also present at the scene. Below is the damage to the government-issued vehicle.
Government vehicle damaged by member of DAMN.Below is an image of William Morgan and Isaac Sant on the scene.
A member of DAMN at the scene of a damaged government vehicle. A member of DAMN at the scene of a damaged government vehicle.DAMN members trained other direct action and Antifa affinity groups throughout the country about how to forcibly obstruct, prevent, delay, hinder, and impede federal immigration enforcement operations. These trainings were referred to as the “Anarchist Speaking Tour.” DAMN members provided training and best practice at “Anarchist Speaking Tour” events in Chicago, Ann Arbor, and Seattle in April 2026.
On April 8, DAMN members Callum Robinet, William Morgan, and others took part in the “Anarchist Speaking Tour” in Ann Arbor, Michigan. Robinet explained to the participants that, “So this is an anarchist speaking tour. We’re all anarchists.”
On April 18, DAMN members Isaac Sant, Cameron Kennedy, and William Morgan took part in the “Anarchist Speaking Tour” in Seattle, Washington. Kennedy described the history of violent resistance in Minneapolis. He described the looting and burning of the Minneapolis Police Department’s Third Precinct as “the happiest moment of my life.” Kennedy explained, “A lot of mutual aid networks that were later characterized…this resistance to ICE came from the George Floyd uprising.” Kennedy described himself as a “revolutionary anarchist.”
Kennedy discussed the Jan. 23 direct action at the Whipple Building, stating that DAMN utilized a “soft blockade with shields at one entrance. He continued that there were “two other deployment teams…those deployment teams had trailers that they had bought off of Facebook Marketplace for really cheap and they essentially tried to blockade the other entrances simultaneously with this blockade (pointed to soft blockade on the projector). One of those trailers was deployed and flipped and successfully shut access. The other was about 30 seconds away from successful deployment before the team was actually pepper sprayed. They managed to avoid arrest…and they managed to drive away, albeit losing the trailer in the process.”
Kennedy also spoke about the direct action at the Whipple Building on March 1. Kennedy pointed to a projector screen and said, “the one you see over here is another shield wall on March 1st.” He continued, “this demonstration had four components to it. There was a above ground march that was led by indigenous sundancers that would take up gate one of the Whipple Building and the others were designed to essentially shut down the other two points of egress…there was 3 deployment teams. The first deployment team brought in shields.” The second deployment team “was sent in and they had something to be like tank busters…” Kennedy described these items as similar to “images of like D-Day, they’re like the metal X structures that you see and actually when the vehicles hit them, it digs back into the road and will stop the vehicle.” Kennedy explained, “I was on deploy 2 or deploy 3 and I had a 10-foot U-Haul box truck and a 30-foot trailer that I was going to use to block one of the entrances.”
Isaac Sant said, “We’re here from Minneapolis. We’re on tour to talk about our experiences resisting the ICE occupation.” He stated, “I think the Twin Cities real contributions to the field of revolutionary organization, of insurrectionary organization is these rapid response networks.” Sant stated, “I am in an anarchist, revolutionary organization. It’s called Blackcat.”
During the event, Sant discussed the logistics of “commuters,” who follow, harass, and confront federal immigration enforcement vehicles. Sant described, “…commuters were on a phone call in real time with a dispatcher who was somewhere with a dispatcher who was somewhere in the privacy of her own room reporting on like that convoys movements. That dispatcher was in a relay chat that allowed for communication between the Elliott Park and the adjacent Loring Park neighborhood…” Sant further explained, “We don’t recommend that anybody ever commute or control by yourself because it’s an inherently dangerous thing. So you always want to do that with a buddy who’s your copilot. So like you’re driving and looking for ice, your co-pilots on the phone talking to dispatch and however many other commuters on a Signal call…you might ask that dispatcher for plate checks, like they’re looking at a database of license plates and you’re not. And you might be like, so a lot of like your day and you’re like, hey I wonder if that’s ICE…And like you see a suspicious looking white Jeep Wagoneer, your copilot like reports a dispatch…and then you follow that car until you can’t anymore.” Sant then described Whipple Watch as a “counter surveillance project,” stating, “This is a very like boring and unglamorous and unsexy side of our work, but basically what I and my comrades do is we go down to Whipple building and hang out there all day and photograph every ICE vehicle that’s coming in and out of the vehicle.” Sant continued that, “Now in April and we have it down to a science and it’s more or less instantaneous. We maintain a searchable database in conjunction with data collection group called Defrost that’s publicly searchable on a website…Defrost is the list of every vehicle that we’ve ever seen ICE in make and model plates and like where and how many times it’s been spotted…So what we’ve started to experiment with now is we maintain a second database that’s only current plates. We erase it at the end of every night and we refresh it the next morning…and hot dishes is just a database of like all the active plates that left Whipple that day. So commuters can know like what we’re, we have confirmed on the road at the moment….What we do is, I mean we have a two fold motive of like getting their plates and blasting those out to all the neighborhoods and also just like wasting their time and resources.”
DAMN members emphasize a violent, militant approach and are highly critical of the non-violent, peaceful protests. DAMN members often advocate, promote, and celebrate violent resistance to purported fascist groups and the government.
For example, the Black Cat Worker’s Collective Facebook cover page reads “Welcome to Minneapolis!” and has an image of the Minneapolis Police Department’s Third Precinct in the background. The Minneapolis Police Department’s Third Precinct was burnt down and destroyed during the riots following the death of George Floyd. Stillshot from the Black Cat Worker’s Collective Facebook page below.
Screenshot of the Black Cat Worker’s Collective Facebook page.On Feb. 5, Cameron Kennedy posted on Facebook, “I swear I’m going to lose my f*****g mind if I see that ‘if 3.5% of the population is committed to peaceful revolution, they win’ bulls**t…It’s given far to (sic) many well meaning people, a fake a** idea of what it takes to win. It has folks attacking militant elements of the resistance and aiding the state against them because they think violence or even property destruction is counter revolutionary. They could not be more wrong. I want to make this as clear as I can: YOU WILL NEVER WIN WITH NON-VIOLENCE ALONE. Ever. No one has. No one will. You absolutely need militants to win. I’m sorry the world is so cruel but this is the real world, not a f*****g fairytale…” See post below.
Facebook post by Cameron Kennedy.On Jan. 24, Kyle Wagner posted a video on his Instagram account “kaos.follows,” while wearing a bullet-proof vest. Wagner admitted to being Antifa. Wagner stated, “[I]f you are [caught up], it’s time to suit up. Boots on the ground. Nicollet and f*****g 26th. My house is four blocks away. Anywhere between Franklin and Nicollet, and 26th and Nicollet, show up ready to go. Okay, no, not talking about peaceful protests anymore. We’re not talking about having polite conversations anymore…This is exactly what I said was going to f****** come when we didn’t f****** go march on f****** Whipple with guns. Sorry but welcome to America 2026 where the Second Amendment is the only thing that’s going to keep you f****** protected from literal f****** Nazi gun men that are killing innocent people in the street with impunity. This is not a f****** joke. There’s nothing fun to chant about it. Get your f****** guns and stop these f****** people.” Stillshot of Wagner from the video below.
Screenshot of Kyle Wagner in a video from his Instagram page.The following defendants are named in the DAMN indictment:
- Isaac Auman Sant, also known as “Isaac Dalto” and “Ike,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer and Interstate Stalking.
- Emmett James Doyle, also known as “Plotnikov,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Cameron Kennedy, also known as “Cam,” “Olive Knite,” and “Knite,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Callum Robinet, also known as “Juliet K,” “Juliet,” and “Cal,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Erik Davis, also known as “Errico,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Brian Stillwell Apland, also known as “Tiny,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Kyle Wagner, also known as “Kaos,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer, Solicitation to Commit a Crime of Violence, and Interstate Threats.
- Hannah Margaret Van De Water Davis, also known as “Gabriel Van De Water” and “Nube,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Treasure Cay Thoreson, also known as “Schatzi,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Nathan Junho Kim, also known as “Moon Bear,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Alec Stewart, also known as “Mac,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Douglas Misterek, also known as “Doug” and “D Munny Big Dog Orf Orf,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- Dustin Scott Beisell, also known as “Sparky,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer.
- William Morgan, also known as “Willow” and “Willow Tree,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer, Interstate Stalking, Assault on a Federal Officer, and Destruction of Government Property.
- Natasha Rakotz, also known as “Anuran,” is charged with Conspiracy to Impede or Injure a Federal Officer and Assault on a Federal Officer.
This case was investigated by HSI.
This case is part of the nationwide National Security Presidential Memorandum 7 initiative, which is a White House directed, interagency effort to integrate federal, state, and local partners in protecting First Amendment rights while targeting individuals and organizations engaged in political violence and is led by the investigative and prosecutorial Joint Task Force Vanguard.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Sant et al Indictment - MN.pdfBoelter Pleaded Guilty for His Role in the Stalking and Murder of Minnesota State LegislatorsRead the Press Release
MINNEAPOLIS – United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen announced today that Vance Luther Boelter, of Green Isle, Minnesota, has pleaded guilty in federal court to multiple charges related to the stalking, shooting, and murdering of Minnesota House of Representatives Speaker Emerita Melissa Hortman and her husband Mark Hortman, as well as the stalking and shooting of Minnesota State Senator John Hoffman and his wife Yvette Hoffman, and attempted shooting of their daughter Hope Hoffman.
According to court documents in United States v. Vance Luther Boelter, No. 25‑cr-272 (JRT/DJF), on or about June 14, 2025, Boelter used GPS navigation systems, interstate wires, the Internet, and other interstate communication systems to plan and carry out a coordinated series of violent attacks targeting the Hortman and Hoffman families in Brooklyn Park and Champlin, Minnesota. Court documents allege that Boelter acted with the intent to kill, injure, harass, and intimidate the victims, and that his conduct placed them in reasonable fear of death and serious bodily injury. During these attacks, Melissa and Mark Hortman were shot and killed, and John and Yvette Hoffman suffered life‑threatening injuries.
Today, during a change‑of‑plea hearing in U.S. District Court before Judge John R. Tunheim, Boelter admitted to the conduct described in the indictment and pleaded guilty to all counts, which include two stalkings, two murders through use of a firearm, and two federal firearm-shooting offenses. The plea agreement provides that Boelter is subject to the longest possible prison term allowable under law for his offenses.
This case is a result of a joint state and federal criminal investigation involving agencies across the entire state of Minnesota, including FBI, Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension, ATF, Brooklyn Park Police Department, Minneapolis Police Department, Hennepin County Sherriff’s Office, Champlin Police Department, and New Hope Police Department, together with several other state and local partners.
“Political violence is a scourge in our nation,” said United States Attorney Daniel N. Rosen. “We now expect Vance Boelter will spend the rest of his natural life in prison without parole. To all of those who would commit political violence: this Justice Department will seek and obtain the longest prison terms for your offense.”
“Political violence is a nemesis of our democracy,” said FBI Minneapolis Field Office Special Agent in Charge Christopher D. Dotson. “On June 14, 2025, Vance Boelter thought he was above the law, above the Constitution, and that his personal views justified a violent crime spree unlike any other seen in Minnesota. For nearly 43 hours after his despicable crimes began, the FBI, BCA, and law enforcement partners from all over the state worked non-stop to track him down and end his campaign of political violence. I am extremely proud of the immediate, cooperative, and comprehensive response of law enforcement from all over Minnesota to quickly track down a ruthless killer. Our hearts are with the victims and their surviving families, the Hortmans, Hoffmans, and all of those other elected officials who were on Boelter's list.”
“Across the Twin Cities, families woke on June 14, 2025, to a fear they should never have had to imagine, that their public servants had been hunted and attacked in their own homes,” said ATF St. Paul Field Division Special Agent in Charge Joe Persails. “Melissa and Mark Hortman were killed, and John and Yvette Hoffman were left to recover from grievous injuries. The terror Vance Boelter set out to create reached far beyond the people he targeted and shook our entire Minnesota community. ATF joined the urgent, around-the-clock effort to locate Boelter and to develop the investigative leads that helped bring him into custody. Today's guilty plea cannot return what was taken from these families, but it makes clear that anyone who chooses to bring this kind of violence to our communities will answer for that choice.”
“The change in plea by Vance Boelter represents an important step toward accountability for the devastating acts that shook our community,” said Interim Chief Bill Peterson of the Minneapolis Police Department. “While this outcome again reflects the unwavering partnership among local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, prosecutors, and the many others who’ve worked tirelessly on this case, no legal proceeding could undo the pain suffered by the Horton and Hoffman families. This plea brings us closer to justice, but we remain committed to honoring the victims, protecting our community, and ensuring that accountability is achieved through the rule of law."
“Mr. Boelter carried out a heinous and unprecedented act of political violence against Minnesota’s political leaders. Violence targeting public officials is an affront to our democracy. We are grateful for all the agencies that worked in partnership to bring Mr. Boelter into custody and prepare a case that forced the guilty plea accepted in court today,” said Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension Superintendent Drew Evans. “To the Hortman and Hoffman families, Minnesota continues to mourn the loss and the suffering you have endured. We hope today’s guilty plea brings you some measure of solace.”
“A guilty plea brings a legal resolution, but our focus today remains on the memory of Melissa and Mark Hortman, and the ongoing recovery of Senator John Hoffman and his wife, Yvette. No courtroom outcome can undo the devastation of that morning, but we hope this accountability offers a step toward closure. We continue to hold both families in our thoughts, offering our deepest respect and unwavering support as they heal.” Said Brooklyn Park Police Chief Mark Bruley.
“As City of Champlin Police Chief, I acknowledge the profound impact the attempted assassination of Senator John Hoffman and his wife, along with the tragic loss of Representative Melissa Hortman and her husband, has had on their families and our entire community. These acts of violence have deeply shaken Champlin and our surrounding communities, reinforcing both our shared sense of vulnerability and our resolve to stand united in support of all those affected. Our thoughts remain with the Hoffman family as they recover, and we mourn alongside those grieving the devastating loss of Representative Hortman and her husband. Champlin and the broader community will continue to come together with strength and compassion, ensuring that such acts do not define us but instead strengthen our commitment to one another. Today’s guilty plea represents a significant step towards recovery for the affected families, and we are grateful for all the work that has been put into this case by the law enforcement community.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Bradley M. Endicott and Matthew D. Forbes are prosecuting the case.