Northern District of Mississippi
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Nigerian Extradited to the U.S. after being Indicted for Financially-Motivated Sextortion Scheme that Caused Death of a Mississippi TeenagerRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – Adebola Festus Adekunle, 26 years old, of Lagos, Nigeria, has been extradited to the United States from Nigeria to face prosecution in an unsealed indictment for the financially-motivated sextortion of a Mississippi minor, which lead to the victim’s death.
The three-count federal indictment charges Adekunle with the sexual exploitation of a minor resulting in death, the production of child sexual abuse material, coercion and enticement of a minor, and interstate threats with intent to extort. He appeared in federal court in Oxford, Mississippi for an initial appearance on August 28, 2026.
Adekunle was arrested in Nigeria in August of 2023, as part of a wider operation with the FBI to apprehend sexual extortionists targeting minors in the United States. He was extradited to the United States on Thursday, August 27, 2026, with the assistance of the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, the FBI Legal Attaché in Abuja, and FBI agents from the Jackson Resident Agency, who traveled to Nigeria and took him into U.S. custody. The support and assistance of Nigerian security authorities was essential to this effort, notably that of Nigeria’s Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Federal Ministry of Justice’s International Criminal Justice Cooperation Department, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Adekunle faces up to life in prison, and mandatory minimum prison sentences on at least two charges. The child exploitation resulting in death count carries a mandatory 30-year prison sentence, if found guilty of that charge.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated, “Several weeks ago we announced an undercover operation dealing with child exploitation, which resulted in 70 arrests. Unfortunately, here we are again in an unrelated child victimization case. This time a child died. The dedication involved in this case cannot be overstated. This tragedy was immediately investigated by the Mississippi Attorney General, the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the Starkville Police Department and the FBI. The evidence led agents to Nigeria. Undeterred, the FBI worked with DOJ’s Office of International Affairs for years, and eventually the defendant was extradited from Nigeria to face justice in the United States. We are thankful for the hard work of Nigeria’s Attorney General and Minister of Justice. Working together, state, federal and international agencies brought us here today.”
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff stated, “Sextortion is a serious crime with devastating consequences. Its impact on victims and their families is profound and long‑lasting. The extradition of Adekunle sends a clear and unmistakable message: crossing state lines does not erase criminal charges, and international borders do not shield individuals from accountability.”
“Walker Montgomery should be here with us today,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “He should be moving into his dormitory, meeting up with friends, and running to class. That he is not is a tragedy. And it is because of the criminal acts of someone halfway around the world – someone who has been brought back to the United States now to stand trial for his actions. This trial cannot bring back Walker and the Montgomery family will always hurt. But I hope that today they get some closure, and assurances that Walker will get justice.”
The case is being investigated by the FBI Jackson Field Office, the FBI’s Violent Crimes Against Children Section and International Operations Division, and the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, and is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King.
These cases are a result of Operation Artemis, the FBI’s surge against financially motivated sextortion rings operating from Nigeria. In coordination with domestic and international law for enforcement partners, the FBI deployed agents, analysts, and forensic experts to Nigeria to confront perpetrators of these deadly schemes—directly linked to dozens of American teen deaths by suicide.
This same focused, multi-agency approach now drives a broader national effort to dismantle the foreign criminal networks behind sextortion and other predatory schemes. The US Government's Financially Motivated Sextortion Campaign Team coordinates across agencies, prioritizes victims, and brings every available tool to bear in its fight to bring to justice those who prey on American families.
All charges in the indictment are merely accusations and that defendants are presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
If someone you know is being victimized by sextortion, please report to local law enforcement and to the FBI. Learn more about sextortion and find resources for parents, caregivers, and teachers.
Corinth Man Sentenced for Trafficking Child Exploitation Materials from the Dark WebRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – A Corinth, Mississippi man was sentenced today by Senior District Judge Michael P. Mills, to 10 years in prison for transporting images and videos of children under 12 and engaging in sexually explicit conduct from the dark web to an online cloud storage.
According to court documents, Zachary “Zach” Alan Little, 36, was found with almost 4,000 child sexual abuse files. Many of the images and videos portrayed children between 7 and 10 years old.
In addition to his prison term, Little was sentenced to five years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender where he lives, where he works, and where he is a student.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary of the Northern District of Mississippi, FBI SAC Robert Eikhoff, and Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch made the announcement. The FBI and the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office were involved in the investigation of the case.
U.S. Attorney Leary said, “I am honored to work with such dedicated law enforcement officers, while at the same time angered that we continually face such crimes. Understanding that we have small children being victimized in this case, society must respond. These child exploitation cases are heartbreaking. It takes extremely dedicated and professional agents to work these investigations, and that is what we have in Mississippi. Child exploitation cases are growing in complexity and proliferation. Thank goodness we have officers and prosecutors that can carry the load. Excellent job FBI and Mississippi Attorney General’s office, perhaps one day these type cases will be outliers rather than common.”
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff stated, “There is absolutely no place in our communities for individuals who prey on children. Little’s exploitation of our youth is a profoundly egregious crime, and it will not be tolerated under any circumstance. The FBI, together with our federal and state law enforcement partners, is unwavering in its commitment to identify and bring to justice anyone who seeks to rob our minors of their innocence.”
“Predators who exploit children will be held accountable for their crimes,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “The young children depicted in the thousands of images recovered in this case are revictimized every time one of those images is shared or viewed. I am grateful to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the partnership that secured this sentence. Together, we are making Mississippi a safer place for all children."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Illegal Alien with Multiple Federal Convictions Sentenced for Another Illegal Re-Entry into the U.S.Read the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS– Fredis Ramos-Serrano, a.k.a. Carlos Roberta Galvez-Jovel, 51, a citizen of Honduras, was sentenced today in federal court to 57 months in prison following his conviction for illegal reentry into the United States.
Following his arrest by the Blue Mountain Police Department, officers learned that Ramos-Serrano was an illegal alien with no status to be in the United States. He had previously been convicted, under an alias, in the United States District Court for the Northern District of Mississippi for his role in a methamphetamine conspiracy in 2003. He also had multiple other federal felony convictions, including a previous conviction for illegal reentry.
Ramos-Serrano has previously been deported from the United States back to Honduras on two separate occasions following his federal convictions. He has never applied for permission to reenter the United States lawfully.
Chief District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Ramos-Serrano to 57 months imprisonment, followed by one year of supervised release in the event that he remains in the country. However, officials with Immigration and Customs Enforcement have placed an immigration detainer on the defendant, which will result, again, in his removal from the United States following the conclusion of his federal sentence.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “This prosecution resulted from yet another arrest by our hardworking and diligent agents at Homeland Security Investigations. For years, our border was opened and allowed illegal narcotics and criminal aliens to flood into our nation. Illegal aliens who destroy our families, small towns, and communities by distributing meth, and other poisons, will never be tolerated in this district. Blue Mountain Police Department and ICE, through their 287(g) program, shows the power of those partnerships to apprehend criminal aliens that live in our communities and keep our citizens safe. We appreciate their role in this partnership. It is a model for others in this state.”
“HSI is committed to identifying and removing individuals who unlawfully reenter the United States after removal and continue to violate our laws,” said HSI Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright. “This sentence reflects the seriousness of repeated immigration violations, particularly when accompanied by felony criminal conduct. When we combine vital partnerships with 287(g) partner Blue Mountain Police Department and other local law enforcement, we create more secure communities in Mississippi and across the U.S.”
Blue Mountain Police Chief Chris Joshlin said, “At the Blue Mountain Police Department, our responsibility is to protect and serve everyone in our community. We will continue doing everything within our authority to keep the Town of Blue Mountain safe, regardless of a person’s background, nationality or immigration status. Our priority is public safety and treating every person we encounter with fairness, dignity, and respect.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Herzog Jr. prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney's Office Presents Inaugural Awards for Investigative ExcellenceRead the Press Release
OXFORD – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary presented three awards for investigative excellence to investigators relating to their work on a Homeland Security Task Force drug trafficking prosecution:
- Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Josh Moore;
- DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office Sergeant/DEA Task Force Officer Josh Bryant; and
- Hernando Police Department’s Special Investigations Division Captain/DEA Task Force Officer Steven Markway.
The Northern District of Mississippi’s Award for Investigative Excellence recognizes state, federal, and local law enforcement individuals or units that have demonstrated excellence in investigation response strategy and dedication to the cause of justice.
The 2026 award recipients facilitated a major HSTF operation involving 19 defendants, more than 25 kilograms of cocaine and $150,000 in drug proceeds and multiple vehicles seized. The recipients of this award exemplified the importance of effective use of interagency relationships to facilitate swift justice.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary presented the award, “the HSTF initiative is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, human smuggling and drug trafficking rings. This operation exemplifies the importance of state and federal collaboration. Our local communities are the beneficiaries of such cooperation, and outstanding investigations like this should be recognized accordingly. Our office extends a hearty thank you to the DEA, the Hernando Police Department and the Desoto County Sheriff’s office. And congratulations to Special Agent Moore, Task Force Officer Bryant, and Task Force Officer Markway, this was just a great job.”
This operation was 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 tin the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Jackson comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ICE ERO, CBP, CBP OFO, CBP USBP, CBP AMO, CGIS, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS and with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Justice Served: Homeland Security Task Force Dismantles Mississippi Delta Drug Trafficking OrganizationRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary announced that law enforcement agencies came together in the Northern District of Mississippi to bring down a drug trafficking organization. Multiple offenders were arrested, 25 pounds of methamphetamine was seized, along with over 4,000 pills containing fentanyl.
U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary stated, “We live in a wonderful state and a wonderful country. Old fashioned patriotism should never be criticized. Normal love of country does not make one a zealous super-patriot, it makes one an American. Oh yea, and we still live with heroes in our midst. Law enforcement officers are engaged in a constant and primitive struggle to protect our communities and children. An aspect of this struggle concerns the scourge of drug trafficking organizations (DTOs). DTOs entice our children with the false promise of camaraderie and easy money. The result is destroyed lives and broken communities. The DEA, United States Marshal Service, and Grenada Police Department recently concluded a multi-year investigation into such a DTO, responsible for trafficking in fentanyl and methamphetamine, all while committing firearm crimes. State and federal officers engaged in the dangerous work of dismantling this organization, which involved the unfortunately familiar Vice Lord and Gangster Disciple gangs. The Marshals apprehended a fugitive in California. Our officers are heroes, and we as patriots applaud their dedication.”
Chief United States District Court Judge, Honorable Deborah M. Brown ordered the following:
- Chauncey Young was sentenced to 46 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl with an additional three years supervised release.
- Courasier Young was sentenced to 151 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute methamphetamine in addition to three years supervised release.
- Antonio Harley was sentenced to 18 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing fluorofentanyl in addition to three years supervised release.
- Jerrica Nahwooksy was sentenced to 21 months on the charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture of substance containing fentanyl in addition to three years supervised release.
- Aleatha Pullen was sentenced to 70 months on the charges of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture of substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine in addition to three years supervised release.
- Jesse Coleman was sentenced to 48 months on the charge of aiding and abetting the use of a communication facility in committing, causing and facilitating a felony in addition to one-year supervised release
- Johnathan Sanders was sentenced to 21 months on the charge of conspiracy to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine in addition to three years on supervised release.
- Kevin Golliday was sentenced to 44 months on the charge of aiding and abetting the use of communication facility in causing or facilitating the commission of a felony in addition to one year on supervised release.
- Marcus Jones was sentenced to 120 months on the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute a mixture and substance containing 50 grams or more of methamphetamine in addition to five years of supervised release.
- James Pruitt was sentenced to 44 months on the charge of conspiracy to distribute a mixture and substance containing a detectable amount of methamphetamine and fentanyl in addition to three years of supervised release.
- Erik Love was sentenced to 92 months for the charge of conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and to distribute a mixture and substance containing methamphetamine in addition to three years of supervised release.
- Christopher Caffey was sentenced to 200 months for the charge of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl in addition to five years of supervised release.
“Through the Homeland Security Task Force, law enforcement stood united to dismantle a dangerous drug network operating in the Mississippi Delta. Taking 25 pounds of methamphetamine and thousands of fentanyl pills off the streets saved lives. The DEA and our partners will not let armed gangs poison our communities; if you deal lethal drugs in Mississippi, we will find you and hold you accountable,” said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott.
“The Mississippi Department of Public Safety is proud to stand alongside our local, state, and federal law enforcement partners in our shared mission to protect the people of Mississippi," stated Mississippi Department of Public Safety Commissioner Sean Tindell. "Public safety is strongest when agencies work together, share information, and coordinate resources to hold offenders accountable and prevent crime before it impacts our communities. We are grateful for the leadership at the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the dedication of every partner committed to making our neighborhoods safer for the families we serve.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chad Doleac prosecuted the case.
This operation and conviction 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 tin the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Jackson comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ICE ERO, CBP, CBP OFO, CBP USBP, CBP AMO, CGIS, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS and with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Federal, State and Local Authorities Announce Multiple Arrests of Non-Compliant Sex Offenders and Child Exploitation Crimes Across MississippiRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS— U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi (USAO NDMS), Scott Leary, hosted a press conference announcing the results of Operation Muddy Waters, a statewide initiative spearheaded by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) to target child sex offenders and child exploitation crimes across Mississippi. The operation coordinated with federal, state and local law enforcement across the state. The operation began July 20 and ended July 31.
In total, Operation Muddy Waters led to 13 child exploitation arrests, 48 sex offender absconder arrests, two referrals to Louisiana and Colorado, one victim recovered, more than 8 search warrants, more than 50 devices seized for forensics and at least three immigration detainers.
Those participating in this operation with HSI and USAO NDMS included:
- U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi
- U.S. Marshals Service
- Mississippi Attorney General’s Office
- Mississippi Department of Public Safety
- Marshall County Sheriff’s Department
- DeSoto County Sheriff’s Department
- Oxford Police Department
- Forrest County Sheriff’s Department
- Hinds County Sheriff’s Department
- Harrison County Sheriff’s Department
- Pearl County Sheriff’s Department
- Hancock County Sheriff’s Department
Scott F. Leary, U.S. Attorney, stated, “When dealing with child exploitation cases, it’s time to pause and reflect on why a government exists: It is to protect and provide a better world for our children, everything else is secondary. This principle can be found in our Declaration of Independence, our founding document: ‘We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable rights, ...’ The Declaration’s vision is that of universal, inalienable God given rights. We are duty bound to protect these rights, especially as they apply to our children. Under no circumstances can American society equivocate this duty. No rationalization, no ambiguity, no tempered response, victimizing children is evil and a civilized society cannot tolerate it. We will be absolutely relentless in our pursuit of those who seek to exploit our kids. These crimes are an abomination. I want to thank those agencies that share this vision, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Southern District of Mississippi, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the United States Marshal Service, the Mississippi Attorney General, the Mississippi Department of Public Safety, and the Police Departments and Sheriff’s Offices who work with us. Together we serve the citizens of this great state. We work hard not to let you down.”
“Those who choose to hide behind a computer screen to exploit children will not remain hidden,” said Matthew Reidell, Assistant Special Agent in Charge of HSI Gulfport. “Operation Muddy Waters demonstrates HSI’s unwavering commitment to protecting children, supporting victims, and holding offenders accountable. We will continue working with our federal, state and local partners to bring these crimes to light, pursue those responsible and help prevent further harm.”
“For two weeks, federal, state, and local law enforcement have been working together to find the predators who hide in plain sight in our communities. And the outstanding number of arrests made during this operation point to the power of this partnership," said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. "But the most important number coming from this operation is the one child victim that was saved from a sextortion scheme in progress. The work done in this operation made all the difference to this child and to countless others who are a little safer online right now."
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
An indictment is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Unprecedented Fraud Enforcement Actions Across the Southeast Resulting from Federal-State PartnershipsRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, Scott F. Leary, joined Assistant Attorney General Colin McDonald of the Justice Department’s National Fraud Enforcement Division, other DOJ leaders, and federal and state law enforcement partners for a press conference announcing a series of significant fraud enforcement actions across the Southeastern United States. These recent cases involve $350 million in losses of SNAP benefits, Small Business Administration (SBA) loans, housing benefits and tax fraud. The Division separately announced the formation of federal-state anti-fraud tasks forces in Mississippi, along with North Carolina and Florida.
An existing case based out of the Northern District of Mississippi was U.S. v. Lakieth Faulkner et al. Faulkner was an attorney and an employee of the SBA. As a part of his actual job, he worked with borrowers to obtain loans. Faulkner was uniquely positioned to understand the Economic Injury Disaster Loan (EIDL) approval process and devised a kickback scheme with co-conspirators to generate more than $11.5 million in fraudulent loan payments by the SBA. Co-conspirators included a former IRS employee.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “We have $2.2 billion of PPP loans that took place in the Northern District of Mississippi, an estimated $1 billion of that was fraud. We are blessed to be able to work with our state’s Attorney General in putting together a task force because, frankly, we are overwhelmed by this reality and we all need additional assets to combat these crimes. I have been a fed for decades, so when I hear our administration say, ‘pin your ears back and go get them,’ it is so refreshing. That is what we are going to do.”
“President Trump has challenged all of us to step up our efforts to fight fraud and protect American taxpayers from this grift,” said Mississippi Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “Partnerships like this one show we are bringing everything to the table in this work. In that spirit, with the support of the U.S. Department of Justice, my office is standing up Joint Task Force Vigilance with our two U.S. Attorneys and the FBI to surge resources and personnel to make Mississippi safer, protect Mississippi taxpayers, and restore law and order. This first-of-its-kind task force will bring the full authority of our offices to bear on con artists, grifters, fraudsters, and scammers.”
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.
Former Sunflower County Policeman Sentenced for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – Marvin Flowers, 60, of Indianola, MS, was sentenced today to over seven years in federal prison after pleading guilty on a previous date to conspiracy to aid and abet, and to attempt to aid and abet, the possession, transportation and distribution of illegal narcotics.
According to court documents, the defendant was arrested on October 30, 2025. At the time of the offense, Flowers received multiple bribes while being employed as a law enforcement officer with the Sunflower County Sheriff’s Office.
Chief District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Flowers to 88 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Flowers will begin his imprisonment on October 5, 2026.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated, “Law enforcement agents live by a code, to bravely serve the citizens they are charged to protect. When that code is violated, there are consequences. Unless you’re involved in law enforcement, it’s hard to appreciate the time and effort required to investigate these type cases. The citizens of this great State are indebted to the FBI agents who invested time and resources to bring this case to a successful conclusion. I applaud their dedication.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge of the FBI-Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff said, "Today’s sentencing serves as a powerful reminder that no one is above the law, especially those who’ve taken an oath to uphold it. The FBI, alongside our law enforcement partners, will continue to investigate and hold accountable individuals who abuse positions of public trust, whether by facilitating the distribution of illegal drugs that harm our communities, or by other means. We remain steadfast in our commitment to protect the public and ensure that those who betray the public’s trust are brought to justice."
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Mims and Sam Stringfellow prosecuted the case.
Felon Fugitive from Grenada Has Been Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary announced that a Homeland Security Task Force Operation led to the sentence of Christopher Caffey, a/k/a “Snow”, 49, of Grenada, Mississippi, for conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. Caffey was sentenced today before the Honorable Deborah M. Brown, Chief United States District Court Judge, to 200 months in federal prison.
According to court documents, Caffey had previously pleaded guilty to the charges and has an extensive criminal history. He was a fugitive from justice for approx. 1 year and was apprehended by the USMS in California.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated: “I prosecuted drug conspiracies for decades and rarely, if ever, saw a recreational meth or fentanyl user. These drugs destroy families and have long fueled violence and instability within our communities. The cartels that supply such drugs take our money and kill our kids. A responsible society must engage. We should never allow violent, repeat offenders to victimize innocent citizens just trying to raise families and live their lives. The DEA and Grenada Police Department, working together, did an excellent job in putting this man behind bars. The United States Marshal’s Service also deserves recognition. They are responsible for apprehending fugitives, among the most dangerous jobs in law enforcement. This defendant was apprehended by the Marshals in California after being on the run for a year. Know that a dedicated Marshal in Louisiana recently lost his life while attempting to arrest a fugitive. He gave his life for us. God bless you guys.”
"The Homeland Security Task Force directs the full might of United States law enforcement to protect the American people by eliminating transnational criminal organizations and violent offenders operating across our borders," said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott. "This sentence proves that evading justice is temporary, as our historic interagency collaboration remains steadfast in utilizing every tool to dismantle drug networks and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States."
This operation and conviction 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 tin the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Jackson comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ICE ERO, CBP, CBP OFO, CBP USBP, CBP AMO, CGIS, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS and with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad M. Doleac prosecuted the case.
Delta Felon Sentenced for the Illegal Possession of Dozens of Firearms, Flying Without a License & Other Aviation Fraud ChargesRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS – Christopher Douglas Showah, 51, of Indianola, was sentenced today after pleading guilty to three federal felonies. Honorable Deborah M. Brown, Chief United States District Court Judge, sentenced Showah to 96 months in federal prison
According to court documents and admissions made at the defendant’s change of plea hearing he pleaded guilty to the following:
- Possession of firearms by a convicted felon;
- Flying without a valid airman’s certificate;
- Fraud relating to maintenance work performed on an aircraft donated to Delta State University for their aviation program.
Showah was initially investigated by the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General for flying after the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued an emergency order suspending his airman’s certificate. Investigators learned that despite this order from the FAA, Showah continued to fly and do airplane mechanic’s work for M&D Aviation, in violation of federal law and regulation. Investigators also learned that Showah had conducted inspections and performed maintenance on an aircraft which was later donated for use by students at Delta State University in Cleveland, Mississippi, despite not possessing a valid certification allowing him to perform work on the aircraft.
Federal agents, assisted by agents with the Mississippi Agricultural & Livestock Theft Bureau, executed a federal search warrant at Showah’s hanger, residence and shop. During this search, agents observed and seized almost forty (40) firearms. Showah was prohibited by federal law from possessing any firearms following several felony convictions in Sunflower and Sharkey Counties in Mississippi.
This was investigated by the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, Mississippi Agricultural & Livestock Theft Bureau and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated that “law enforcement responsibilities often involve issues of public safety. The Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General, the Mississippi Agricultural & Livestock Theft Bureau, and the ATF worked hard on this case, and the citizens of the Northern District of Mississippi are safer because of their efforts. Thank you for your hard work.”
“The defendant’s disregard for federal aviation safety requirements and decision to continue flying and performing aircraft maintenance without proper certification placed the public at real and unnecessary risk,” said Joseph Harris, Special Agent-in-Charge of the Department of Transportation Office of Inspector General’s Southern Region. “The sentence handed down today reflects the seriousness of these violations and reinforces our commitment to working with our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to protect the safety and integrity of the nation’s airspace and the communities we serve.”
“In our effort to disrupt violent gun crime in our community, ATF will continue to focus efforts on prohibited individuals who unlawfully possess firearms,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message that ATF will continue to work alongside our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office to ensure these convicted felons are removed from our communities and held fully accountable so we can keep our neighborhoods safe as the top priority for ATF.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Herzog, Jr. prosecuted the case.
Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN) is the Department of Justice’s nationwide initiative that brings federal, state, local, and tribal law enforcement, prosecutors, and other public safety partners together to coordinate efforts to combat violent crime and make communities safe. Coordinated by U.S. Attorneys’ offices in each of the 94 federal districts, PSN is tailored to particular communities to strategically address specific violent crime and public safety challenges. As a key component of Operation Take Back America, PSN serves a central role in the Department’s commitment to make our country safe. PSN emphasizes three core principles: rapid federal response to violent crime and criminal offenders; strong, strategic partnerships among law enforcement at all levels; and accountability and deterrence through the prosecution of the most serious, readily provable offenses and other strategies. These efforts complement and strengthen President Trump’s Homeland Security Task Forces, ensuring a comprehensive federal response to the most pressing public safety issues facing communities.
An Expired Tag Turns into Federal Prison Time for a Georgia ManRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary announced that a Homeland Security Task Force Operation led to the sentence of Dannie Thomas, of Dacula, Georgia. Thomas was sentenced today before the Honorable Deborah M. Brown, Chief United States District Court Judge, to 120 months in federal prison for possession with intent to distribute more than five kilograms of cocaine.
This case was initiated by the Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Office. According to court documents, at the time of his arrest Thomas was in possession of 50 kilograms of cocaine, along with a large amount of currency. The defendant has a lengthy criminal record dating back decades.
Scott Leary, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi stated: “For years our communities have been decimated by the trafficking in illegal drugs. Cocaine fosters addiction, and addiction destroys families. Moreover, the illegal drug trade fuels violent crime and subsidizes drug cartels. And the drug cartels not only traffic in drugs but also traffic in human beings. Let’s work together in combatting this scourge. The Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative was designed to encourage state and federal law enforcement cooperation, which is what happened in this case. The Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Office and the DEA did a great job putting this case together. Let’s maintain the momentum.”
"This case highlights how critical proactive law enforcement is to our communities,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge, John P. Scott, New Orleans Field Division. “Thanks to the sharp instincts of the Pontotoc County Sheriff’s Deputy and the investigative power of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), fifty kilograms of cocaine and a massive amount of illicit currency were intercepted before they could do further harm. The DEA, alongside our HSTF partners, will continue to relentlessly pursue and prosecute those who think they can transport illegal narcotics through our state."
Pontotoc County Sheriff Leo Mask stated, “I am proud to partner with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the DEA to reduce the flow of illegal narcotics, and this clearly demonstrates what can be accomplished with that partnership.”
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 tin the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Jackson comprises agents and officers from FBI, HSI, DEA, ICE ERO, CBP, CBP OFO, CBP USBP, CBP AMO, CGIS, ATF, USMS, IRS-CI, USPIS and with the prosecution being led by the United State’s Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad M. Doleac prosecuted the case.
Greenwood Bank Robber SentencedRead the Press Release
Aberdeen, MS – Earl Blue, 48, from Greenwood, was sentenced to 200 months in federal prison by Senior United States District Court Judge Sharion Aycock today. In addition to prison time, he was ordered five years of supervision and was ordered to pay restitution to the victim bank in the amount of $5,300. Blue had previously pled guilty to robbing a branch of Regions Bank in Greenwood, Mississippi.
According to court documents, on May 15, 2025, Blue walked into Regions Bank and stated that he wished to open an account. After waiting for a period, Blue approached the teller and pointed a handgun at her and demanded that she provide him with money. The teller complied with Blue’s demands and Blue fled the bank taking U.S. currency with him. The Greenwood Police Department responded to the robbery and along with the FBI, quickly developed Blue as the suspect. Blue was apprehended the following day by the United States Marshals Service Fugitive Task Force in St. Louis, Missouri. A significant amount of stolen currency was recovered from his possession at the time of his arrest.
U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary stated, “Success is not measured by one’s wealth, but by one’s worth. Honorable people are honest, dedicated hard workers, dishonorable people take what does not belong to them. We’ve been dealing with bank robbers for awhile now, and it takes honorable people to bring them to justice, which is what happened in this case. I commend the Greenwood Police Department and the FBI for their investigation of this case. By working together, law enforcement can accomplish so much more in protecting the public from dangerous criminals. I also credit AUSA Herzog for his professionalism in prosecuting this case.”
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff said, "Armed robbery is a bold, brazen act that Blue believed he could commit with impunity, but today’s sentencing sends a clear message: Bank robbery is not an easy payday—it’s a serious federal crime and perpetrators will be held accountable. The FBI, together with our law enforcement partners, remains steadfast in our commitment to identify, apprehend, and bring to justice offenders like Blue. Our resolve to protect public safety is unwavering."
Greenwood Police Department Chief of Police, Serafin Simon, Jr., said, "Today's sentence of Earl Blue in the armed bank robbery that occurred in Greenwood represents the successful conclusion of a thorough investigation and the unwavering commitment of our officers, investigators, and our law enforcement partners to bring violent offenders to justice. Armed robberies threaten not only financial institutions but also the safety and security of our entire community. Blue’s sentence sends a clear message that those who commit violent crimes in Greenwood will be identified, apprehended, and held fully accountable under the law. We are grateful to our partnership with the federal prosecutors and investigators for their dedication throughout this process. Most importantly, we remain committed to protecting the citizens of Greenwood and ensuring that justice is served."
Assistant U.S. Attorney John Herzog Jr. prosecuted the case.
Former Law Enforcement Officer is Sentenced for ExtortionRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – A former Ruleville police officer was sentenced today to 7 years in prison for extortion under color of law.
According to court documents, Antonio Wade, 37, previously pled guilty to extorting money from an illegal alien during a traffic stop. At sentencing it was revealed that Wade engaged in a pattern of such activity. Senior U.S. District Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Wade to 84 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Wade was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshal following sentencing.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “Open borders resulted in a tsunami of illegal drugs and a human trafficking crisis. While illegal entry is a crime, those that do enter illegally should never be extorted by those in power. Public service is a public trust and maintaining that trust is essential. In this case, Homeland Security Investigation (HSI) agents demonstrated how seriously they take their duty. HSI Special Agents worked tirelessly to address this wrong. I honor their efforts.”
“Wade’s conviction and sentencing send a clear message that no one is above the law, especially those sworn to enforce it,” said HSI New Orleans Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright. "HSI stands firm in its commitment to bring to justice anyone who betrays their responsibilities and threatens public trust."
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorney Robert Mims.
Former Kindergarten Assistant Sentenced to 20 Years for Child ExploitationRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – A Courtland, Mississippi, man was sentenced today to 20 years in prison for transporting child sexual abuse materials using social media applications.
According to court documents, Benjamin Wilkes, 31, a former kindergarten assistant, sought out images and videos of children as young as four-years old engaging in sexual conduct then stored those images and videos in a social media cloud for ease of access. Wilkes also had a number of “up-skirt” images of children he was entrusted with from his church community. Multiple community members wrote letters of support for Benjamin Wilkes. In announcing the sentence, Senior District Judge Michael P. Mills noted that, “If the community won’t protect its children, the Government has to.”
In addition to 20 years imprisonment, Wilkes will serve 10 years of supervised release and be required to register as a sex offender where he lives, works, or is a student.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigations.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “Child exploitation and pornography are an abomination. No ambiguity, it is evil and a civilized society cannot tolerate its existence. We, as citizens of Mississippi, must continue to work tirelessly to redress and stamp out these crimes. Thankfully, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigations (MBI) have taken up this cause and joined forces to push such perversion out of this great State. Keep up the excellent work.”
"The sentencing of Benjamin Wilkes demonstrates the commitment of Homeland Security Investigations and our partners at the Mississippi Bureau of Investigations to track down those who exploit children,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright. “This sentence sends a clear message that those who abuse positions of trust and use technology to harm children will be held fully accountable, and we will continue to use every resource available to protect our communities."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC
- This is a test
"GUILTY" - A Federal Jury Convicts a California Felon for Firearms Trafficking ViolationsRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that a federal jury convicted Yohannes Tekie Gebrezghi, 41, of Sacramento, California after a two-day trial. Gebrezghi was convicted of firearms trafficking.
According to evidence produced at trial, Gebrezghi was stopped in New Albany by two Mississippi Highway Patrol officers. A search of his vehicle by the troopers uncovered 13 firearms, including pistols and AK-style rifles. The weapons were hidden in the vehicle’s door panels and hatch, along with ammunition, large-capacity magazines, and $16,000 in United States currency. Evidence at trial confirmed that Gebrezghi had travelled from California. He was a prior convicted felon.
Gebrezghi will be sentenced by United States District Judge James D. Maxwell, II on a future date.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “Gun traffickers put both our citizens and law enforcement officers at risk. Those who traffic in illegal firearms are directly feeding the cycle of violent crime that is out plaguing our communities. We, as responsible free people, can never tolerate such dangerous criminals in our society. The Mississippi Highway Patrol did an excellent job with this case. We’ve grown to expect continual investigative professionalism from the ATF and this case is another fine example of their work.”
“In our effort to disrupt violent gun crime in our community, ATF will continue to focus efforts on long-time criminals who illegally traffic firearms,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The jury’s guilty verdict today sends a message to convicted felons who are prohibited from trafficking firearms that we will continue to work to keep our neighborhoods safe as the top priority for ATF.”
The case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives with the assistance of the Mississippi Highway Patrol and the Mississippi Bureau of Investigation. The Fort Bragg, California Police Department provided further support in the prosecution.
The case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Addison and Chad Doleac.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Tennessee Man Sentenced to 30 Years for Transporting a Minor Across State Lines Multiple Times to Engage in Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS – Terry DeWayne Macon, 29, of Grand Junction, Tennessee was sentenced today to 360 months in prison by Chief United States District Judge Debra M. Brown for transporting a minor across state lines to engage in sex. He had been found guilty by a federal jury in December 2025.
Additionally, his jail sentence will be followed by 5 years of supervised release. He will be required to register as a sex offender.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Macon met a Mississippi teen online in July of 2024. Over the next month, Macon drove from Tennessee to Mississippi on three occasions where he picked up the minor and returned with her to Tennessee. Macon later admitted that he had engaged in sex acts with the minor. At the time of the transport and sex acts, Macon was 27 years old, and the victim was 14 years old.
Members of Mississippi’s FBI Child Abduction Response Team, including a Jackson RA (NV Division) CARD member and Task Force Officers, worked with Corinth Police Department and other local investigative agencies from Tennessee, located the victim with Macon at a residence in Grand Junction, Tennessee, and were able to safely return her home.
Macon was found guilty at trial on all counts of transporting a minor in interstate commerce with the intent to engage in unlawful sexual activity. Macon was serving a term of federal supervised release at the time of the offenses. At a revocation proceeding held following the verdict, Judge Brown sentenced Macon to 24 months for the violations of release, which will run concurrent to the 30-year sentence imposed in the sex offense case.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated, “Those who would abuse children are among the most abhorrent of criminals. To the degree that such sociopaths can receive a message, know that if you live in Mississippi our law enforcement officers will work tirelessly to hunt you down and put you in jail, which is exactly what happened in this case. Law enforcement did an amazing job in saving this child. We have true heroes working for the people of Mississippi.”
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff stated, "There is no place in our communities for those who prey on children. Macon's depraved actions robbed a minor of their innocence. The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain committed to identifying, investigating, and bringing to justice every individual who seeks to exploit or abuse children. We will continue pursuing these offenders and holding them accountable to the fullest extent of the law."
Corinth Police Department Chief Landon Tucker said, “We are proud to support our federal partners and do our part to help bring this case to a successful conclusion. Thank you to the FBI, the TFO’s and the prosecutors at the U.S. Attorney’s Office in Oxford for their time and hard work on this case.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Julie Addison and Parker King.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Former Greenville Policeman Sentenced for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE – Martavis Moore, 32, from Greenville, was sentenced today after pleading guilty on a previous date to conspiracy to aid and abet, and to attempt to aid and abet, the possession, transportation and distribution of illegal narcotics. Chief Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Moore to 92 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Moore was an officer with the Greenville Police Department when he accepted a bribe for assisting a drug dealer in transporting drugs through Greenville.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated, “This case is the result of dedicated FBI agents who worked tirelessly in this investigation. Mississippians expect honorable hard work from federal law enforcement officers, and they again received it. The prosecutors in this case, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Mims and Sam Stringfellow, likewise did an excellent job. It is my honor to work with such professionals.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge of the FBI-Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff said, "Moore's conduct was both shocking and a profound betrayal of the public's trust. When someone in a position of authority commits such a reprehensible crime, the harm extends far beyond the community they swore to serve. The FBI and our partners will aggressively pursue cases like this and hold those who abuse positions of trust fully accountable, no matter their position or title."
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Mims and Sam Stringfellow prosecuted the case.
Lamar Woman Sentenced and Ordered to Pay over $1.4M for Tax Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN, MS – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that Patricia Jones, 44, of Lamar, Benton County, Mississippi was sentenced by Senior District Judge Sharion Aycock. After pleading guilty on an earlier date, Jones was sentenced to 50 months imprisonment, 3 years supervised release and ordered to pay $1,422,022 to her victims.
According to court documents, Patricia Jones submitted false and fraudulent IRS forms in order to obtain Employee Retention Credit (ERC) funds. ERC was designed to encourage employers to continue to pay employees during the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic. The defendant submitted these forms on behalf of herself and others, attempting to claim over $3.8 Million in fraudulent refunds and generating over $1.4 Million in fraudulent payments by the IRS to Jones and others.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “On April 7th, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. Its core mission is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. The initiative is working thanks to the hard work of federal investigators and prosecutors who devote themselves to these often-complex cases. I congratulate these men and woman who seek to ensure that taxpayer funded benefits go to where they are intended.”
“Today’s sentencing of Patricia Jones reaffirms our commitment to protecting the integrity of the nation’s tax system,” said Special Agent in Charge Demetrius Hardeman, IRS-CI Atlanta Field Office. “Individuals who cheat the American taxpayer undermine public trust and siphon resources intended to support our communities. IRS Criminal Investigation special agents are highly trained financial investigators, skilled at following the money, uncovering complex fraud schemes, and ensuring that individuals who attempt to cheat the American taxpayer are held fully accountable. We remain committed to protecting public trust by taking action against those who misuse federal relief programs.”
This case was investigated by the IRS and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Clay Dabbs.
The National Fraud Enforcement Division 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.
Former DeSoto County Elementary Teacher Sentenced for Possession of Child Exploitation MaterialsRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN, MS – An Olive Branch, Mississippi man was sentenced today to nine years in prison for possessing images and videos of children under 12 engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Prior to his arrest, he was an elementary school teacher.
According to court documents, Mitchell Cantrell, 37, was downloading and viewing child sexual abuse content from the internet. The content found on his electronic devices included sexual materials involving preteens, toddlers, and infants. The Southaven Police Department identified and investigated this case and worked with the United States Attorney’s Office to prosecute Cantrell.
In addition to his prison term, Cantrell was sentenced to ten years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender where he lives, where he works, and where he is a student.
Scott Leary, United States Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi stated, “As Americans we are unfortunately divided on so many issues. There are, however, certain issues upon which we should all agree. Foremost is society’s responsibility to protect children. There is simply no room for child exploitation in our country. I thank the citizens of this great state for standing with federal and state law enforcement in combating these crimes. With the advent of advanced technology, investigating child exploitation is becoming more complex – we must remain vigilant. We should all be proud of the great job the Southaven Police Department did in investigating this case. The Project Safe Childhood initiative is working; federal and state law enforcement are working together to protect our kids. Perhaps one day we can stamp out this scourge.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC
Two Corinth Pharmacists Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare FraudRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN, MS – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary announced today that two Corinth pharmacists have been sentenced for stealing almost $800,000.00 from the federal health care benefit programs Medicare and Medicaid. These prosecutions were part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Northern District of Mississippi, working in close collaboration with the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office.
Ricky Wayne Quinn, 71, was a pharmacist and owner-operator of the “Medical Plaza at Alcorn, LLC” in Corinth, Mississippi. John Anthony “Andy’ Null, 56, was a pharmacist and long-time employee of Medical Plaza Pharmacy. Both pleaded guilty on an earlier date to Conspiracy to Commit Healthcare Fraud. Senior District Judge Glen H. Davidson sentenced Quinn to thirty months in prison and ordered both defendants to pay $786,972.10 in restitution to Medicare.
According to court documents, the defendants billed Medicare and Medicaid for the same single prescription drug product numerous times. These high reimbursement prescription drug products included, but not limited to, diabetic insulin pens, asthma inhalers and psychotropic medications. This investigation was a part of the 2026 National Health Care Fraud Takedown.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary said, “This administration has emphasized the investigation and prosecution of those who steal taxpayer dollars. Defrauding Medicare funds intended for sick Americans is just the type of crime the National Fraud Enforcement Division is calling on us to emphasize. We must remain diligent to ensure medical dollars go where intended.”
Attorney General of Mississippi Lynn Fitch’s office stated, “We are sending a clear message that here in Mississippi, we are committed to fighting waste, fraud, and corruption. We are grateful for such strong partners at the Office of the Inspector General and U.S. Attorney’s Office. Working together, we are ensuring justice is served on behalf of Mississippi taxpayers.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton A. Dabbs is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Homeland Security Task Force Operation Investigation Leads to Meth Arrest and ProsecutionRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS – Charterious Moore, 33, of West Point, Mississippi, was sentenced to 120 months in federal prison and five years supervised release after previously pleading to distribution of over a pound of methamphetamine. Chief U.S. District Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Moore.
According to court documents, Moore had previously pleaded guilty to knowingly and intentionally distributing an amount in excess of fifty grams of methamphetamine. This investigation and prosecution was a part of the Homeland Security Task Force initiative that brings together local and federal partners to eliminate criminal gangs in our streets. The investigation of this case was carried out by Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, Monroe County’s Sheriff’s Office, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics and the United States Marshals.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “What kind of Mississippi are we going to pass on to our children? As citizens of this great nation, such concerns should always be remembered. On this note, please understand that methamphetamine trafficking is completely detrimental to our children and our communities. It results in lost lives. Our state and federal law enforcement partners are charged with addressing this scourge, at times placing themselves in harm’s way. In this case, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics (MBN), the Lowndes County and Monroe County Sheriff’s Offices, the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) and the U.S. Marshals did a stellar job in taking meth off our streets. Our citizens expect this type of partnership. Working together, we can help ensure that our children inherit a Mississippi where hard work and faithfulness pay off.”
"Criminal gangs rely on the distribution of illicit drugs like methamphetamine to fund their operations and terrorize our communities," said Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent in Charge John P. Scott, New Orleans Field Division. "Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Homeland Security Task Force, a major source of this poison has been taken off the streets. This sentence underscores our unwavering commitment to working alongside our local law enforcement partners to dismantle these dangerous organizations and restore peace to Mississippi communities."
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Jackson comprises agents and officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Air and Marine Operations, U.S. Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Assistant U.S. Attorney and Senior Litigation Counsel Clyde McGee prosecuted this case.
U.S. Attorney's Office Recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness DayRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced that the Northern District of Mississippi, recognizes World Elder Abuse Awareness Day on June 15, 2026. The Department of Justice joins the Elder Justice Council and other government agencies and organizations across America to spread the word about government and business imposter scams.
These imposter scammers lie and pretend to be someone they’re not. Their goal? Trick you into giving them money, access to your financial accounts, or your personal information. They make up complicated stories about so-called emergencies so you’ll panic and act quickly before you have time to think about what to do or talk to someone you trust.
One common scam starts with an unexpected call from someone who says they’re from a well-known business, saying there’s suspicious activity on your account.
To “help” you, they transfer you to someone who says they’re from the government. This so-called helper, who claims to be from the FBI, the FTC, or some other law enforcement agency, urges you to move your money to “protect it” — maybe by transferring it to an account they give you, depositing it in a “government account” or crypto ATM for “safekeeping,” or getting cash or gold and giving it to a courier. But it’s all a lie. No one from the government will ever ask you to do these things. Only scammers will.
Other lies might involve a “suspended Social Security number” or supposed eligibility for government benefits. In all cases, that scammer will go to great lengths to convince you they’re with the government: fake caller ID or official-looking letters, for example. The agency name might be real or made up (but real-sounding), and some scammers might show you an employee ID or badge — all to seem more real. But they’re not.
United States Attorney Scott Leary points out that “even with the collective resources of State and Federal law enforcement, we don’t have enough officers to prevent every scam. Criminals are creative and relentless. We need our community. If you see something, say something. Come forward when you notice something suspicious, and we will work aggressively to make sure that our community is a safer place to live.”
To recognize and avoid a government imposter, keep these things in mind:
- Never ever will someone from the government say: “Your money isn’t safe. Move it to protect it.” Only a scammer will.
- Never ever will someone from the government threaten to suspend your government benefits if you don’t pay immediately. Only a scammer will.
- Never ever will someone from the government demand that you pay with a payment app, cryptocurrency, wire transfer, or gift cards.
Talk to someone you trust if you’re worried about a problem with your account or identity — especially if the stranger says they’re from the government or the situation is serious or involves a crime. If you spot an imposter scam — or any other type of scam — report it at ReportFraud.ftc.gov. Find out more when U.S. Attorney Leary discusses with Tanya Carter as a public service announcement.
DeSoto County Sheriff Thomas Tuggle Selected as NDMS 2026 Hometown HeroRead the Press Release
OXFORD – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary presented DeSoto County Sheriff Thomas Tuggle, the 2026 Hometown Hero award for the Northern District of Mississippi.
As part of Freedom 250, United States Attorneys’ offices (USAOs) nationwide are honoring the Hometown Heroes of their districts. The Hometown Hero Award commemorates the 250th anniversary of the founding of the United States of America by celebrating the enduring ideals of liberty, service, and civic responsibility. This award is dedicated in recognition of a steadfast commitment to these ideals and an embodiment of the spirit upon which our nation was founded.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary presented the award, “We are federal, you are State. We are continually attempting to improve our ability to work together to make Mississippi a safer state, because we love it here. This is our home. Sheriff Tuggle typifies this ability to work together. Not only is Sheriff Tuggle a gifted professional law man, but he also continually shows up for the children of his community. He works tirelessly at his job, especially for the kids. For some of them, a light will go off, and that is what we are going for. For all of these reasons we are honored to present this Hometown Hero award to Sheriff Tuggle.”
Sheriff Tuggle has dedicated his life to serving our country, our state and his hometown DeSoto County. Tuggle has served as a Marine, a policeman, a highway patrol officer and training consultant throughout his career. As sheriff, Tuggle has led the DeSoto County Sheriff’s Office’s Youth Mentor Program which focuses on helping young people develop character, mindset and skills with the ultimate goal of improving their confidence and self-worth. At the end of the year-long program, those youth are recognized in front of their community for the achievements they earned.
Upon accepting his award, Sheriff Tuggle said he and his team are working with youth, giving them something else to think about other than guns. As a result, DeSoto County is having minimum teenagers shooting teenagers. They are teaching the youth of DeSoto County the importance of accountability that they must give in order to get, so they are starting to believe in that concept. He also discussed his time in the Marines and how it made him realize how fragile life is, by staring death in the eyes. Sheriff Tuggle said, “To receive this award is not only an honor but I share it with the entire team.” (The entire acceptance speech can be found here.
The Hometown Hero Award is presented to individuals who have made significant and measurable contributions to preserve and/or improve their community. Sheriff Tuggle has more than contributed to our community, he has been pro-active in all facets of his job and we want to commend him for his efforts.
For more information on Freedom 250 and the Hometown Hero award, go to https://freedom250.org/
Justice Department Announces Results of Operation Spring CleaningRead the Press Release
WASHINGTON — The Department of Justice today announced the results of Operation Spring Cleaning, a nationwide initiative spearheaded by the FBI to combat gang-related threats and enhance public safety. The operation coordinated with federal, state, and local law enforcement and targeted the illegal flow of firearms and narcotics in our communities. The operation began on March 1 and ended May 31.
In total, Operation Spring Cleaning led to over 1100 arrests, over 600 charges filed, and almost 600 search warrants conducted. The operation also resulted in the seizure of:
- Almost 1000 illegal firearms, dozens of which were equipped with machine gun conversion devices (MCDs) as well as over 75 stand-alone MCDs;
- Over 2,700 pounds of illegal narcotics including
- Over 500 kilograms of cocaine or more than 1100 pounds,
- Nearly 700 pounds of methamphetamine,
- Over 550 pounds of marijuana,
- Nearly 50 kilograms of fentanyl or more than 100 pounds,
- Almost 40 kilograms of heroin or more than 85 pounds,
- More than 7 kilograms of crack cocaine or more than 16 pounds, and
- More than 13,200 pills of MDMA, also known as ecstasy or molly.
“When our neighborhoods are safe from the scourge of deadly drugs, individuals and families can prosper,” said Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche. “The Trump Administration has made significant progress in removing this poison from our streets, a key step in our commitment to making America safe again.”
“This FBI understands that communities across our country have been ravaged by gangs and the firearms and narcotics they flood our streets with,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Operation Spring Cleaning represents our total commitment to crushing this kind of violent crime and eliminating the criminal networks who facilitate them – with over 1,000 arrests, 1,000 firearms seized, and 3,000 pounds of narcotics removed from our neighborhoods. Righteous operations like this show this FBI is only getting started and will continue delivering the most prolific run of crime reduction in U.S. history.”
Three School Employees from Mississippi and Missouri Sentenced for Embezzling Nearly $400,000 in Department of Education FundsRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN, MS – Two former school superintendents and a schoolteacher have been sentenced for stealing almost $400,000.00 from the Department of Education. These arrests, and ultimate prosecution, was an action on part of the Trump Administration’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud. The defendants in this were:
- Mario Willis, 58, of Southaven, Mississippi, was sentenced April 22, 2026, in federal court in Aberdeen, Mississippi before Judge Sharion Aycock. He had previously pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Embezzle Federal Program Funds and was sentenced to twenty months in federal prison beginning June 15, 2026. He was also sentenced to three years supervised release and ordered to pay $393,300.00 in restitution.
- Earl Joe Nelson, 57, of Biloxi, Mississippi, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Embezzle Federal Program Funds and was sentenced May 13, 2026, by Judge Sharion Aycock to 14 months in federal prison beginning July 13, 2026. Additionally, he was sentenced to three years of supervised release. Judge Aycock also ordered Nelson to pay a total of $143,300.00 to his victims for restitution.
- Monekea M. Smith-Taylor, 53, of St. Louis, Missouri, pleaded guilty to Conspiracy to Embezzle Federal Program Funds and was sentenced on this date Judge Sharion Aycock to 16 months in federal prison, three years of supervised release and additionally, she was ordered to pay $250,000 in restitution to the victims.
According to court documents, Mario Willis was the superintendent of Hollandale School District. From July 2019 to May 2022, Joe Nelson was the superintendent of Clarksdale Municipal School District. In October 2022, Nelson became the superintendent of Leake County School District. Monekea Smith-Taylor was a schoolteacher in the St. Louis, Missouri area. Nelson and Willis used their position as school superintendents to commit the crimes and, together with Smith, embezzled public funds for their own enrichment.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary said, “This administration has emphasized the investigation and prosecution of those who steal taxpayer dollars. The embezzlement of school funds is just the type of crime the National Fraud Enforcement Division is calling on us to emphasize. We must remain diligent to ensure education dollars go where intended, to our children.”
“Mr. Willis abused his position of trust for personal gain, and with today’s action, will now be held accountable for cheating those he promised to serve – Hollandale School District’s school children and their families,” said Jamila Davis, Special Agent in Charge of the U.S. Department of Education Office of Inspector General [OIG] Eastern Regional Office. "The OIG will continue to work with our law enforcement partners to aggressively pursue those who misappropriate education funds for their own selfish purposes. Students and taxpayers deserve nothing less.”
Shad White, Mississippi State Auditor stated, "Thank you to my team that helped uncover the facts on this case and to the US Attorney’s Office for prosecuting. We will continue to work as hard as we can to hold anyone who steals taxpayer funds accountable.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton A. Dabbs is prosecuting the case.
On April 7, the Department of Justice announced the creation of the National Fraud Enforcement Division. The core mission of the Fraud Division is to zealously investigate and prosecute those who steal or fraudulently misuse taxpayer dollars. Department of Justice efforts to combat fraud support President Trump’s Task Force to Eliminate Fraud, a whole-of-government effort chaired by Vice President J.D. Vance to eliminate fraud, waste, and abuse within Federal benefit programs.
Chilean Nationals Arrested in Multi-State Criminal InvestigationRead the Press Release
OXFORD – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that two Chilean nationals who have overstayed their visas were arrested in Missouri for criminal offenses committed in the Northern District of Mississippi and elsewhere.
These arrests follow an investigation by the Oxford Police Department (OPD) which began after officers responded to a burglary where evidence was retrieved that allowed them to track the suspect’s vehicle. Investigators learned that the vehicle was associated with burglaries in Mississippi, Alabama, Arkansas, Missouri and Illinois. Law enforcement was able to locate the vehicle in Missouri where two suspects were arrested.
Fabian Ignacio Navarro-Aliaga, 27, and Marcelo Alejandro Telechea-Droguett, 36, were arrested after a brief pursuit by Howell County sheriff’s deputies with the assistance of the Missouri State Highway Patrol. Items of investigatory value were recovered from the scene where the arrest was made as well as from the vehicle.
This case was investigated through collaboration of HSI, Howell County, Missouri Sheriff’s Office, Missouri Highway Patrol, Oxford Police Department and the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Oxford Police Chief Jeff McCutchen stated, “This case is a testament to what can be accomplished when law enforcement agencies work together toward a common goal. The Oxford Police Department is grateful for the outstanding support provided by Homeland Security Investigations and our other law enforcement partners. Through intelligence sharing, technology, and relentless investigative work, we were able to identify those responsible, recover stolen property, and hold these offenders accountable.”
“I am extremely proud of the work done by our deputies and our partner agencies in bringing this situation to a safe conclusion,” said Howell County Sheriff Matt Roberts. “This case is a strong example of what happens when criminals try to operate across jurisdictions and underestimate the coordination between local, state, and federal partners. Because of that teamwork, two individuals believed to be responsible for crimes across multiple states are now in custody.”
This case is being prosecuted by John Herzog Jr. of the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
In Celebration of Freedom 250, the United States Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Mississippi Contributes to the Local Food PantryRead the Press Release
OXFORD – As part of America’s 250th birthday celebration, Freedom 250, U.S. Attorneys’ Offices around the country are honoring America by spearheading a gift-in-kind charity drive for their staff to participate in to benefit the community. In the Northern District of Mississippi, U.S. Attorney Scott Leary announced their office held a food drive for the local food pantry.
The Pantry of Oxford and Lafayette County ministers to the emergency ad short-term food needs of local low-income residents by supplying food to eligible clients. A representative of the Pantry confirmed their current customer count is 500-600 children and adults who are able to come to the Pantry and get enough food for a family of four for one week. They were very grateful and reiterates that “No amount is too small to make a significant impact! Every contribution to our organization is an investment in our community that yields incredible returns!”
Freedom 250 is celebrated in every city, every town, every stretch of American road. You can find a celebration near you at the above hyperlink.
Another Venezuelan Gang Member Sentenced for "Jackpotting"Read the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – A second Venezuelan man with ties to the Tren de Aragua (TdA) international gang was sentenced today for conspiracy to commit bank fraud by United States District Judge Michael P. Mills. Winder Alexander Canelon-Tiapa, 26, living as an illegal alien in Dallas, Texas, was sentenced today to ten months with three years of supervised release. Additionally, he is to pay the victim $47,250 in restitution.
According to court documents, upon release of this prison sentence, the defendant will be surrendered to the custody of ICE for removal from this country..
Commonly known as “Jackpotting,” Canelon-Tiapa, and his co-defendant, Darrin Daza-Segura, travelled throughout Mississippi and reprogrammed bank ATMs to disperse large amounts of cash. They successfully stole $47,000 from ATMs at Mississippi banks and attempted to steal much more. ATM Jackpotting is a significant problem throughout the country and is a known crime commonly perpetrated by members of the Tren de Araqua gang from Venezuela.
Darrin Daza-Segura was previously sentenced to ten months with three years of supervised release, and ordered to pay the victim $47,250 in restitution by Judge Mills.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “This administration has dedicated significant assets to identifying and prosecuting dangerous foreign gangs that have infiltrated our society. Tren de Aragua, originated in Venezuela, has been designated as a foreign terrorist organization. The fruit of this aggressive approach to gang activity is starting to pay off. Foreign gang members that enter our state and steal from our citizens will pay for their crimes and then be sent home. Thank you to the Mississippi Attorney General’s Cyber Crime Division and the Secret Service. The citizens of Mississippi are receiving dedicated work and cooperation from federal and state law enforcement officers.”
The Cyber Crime Division of the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office investigated the case.
“Thanks to the diligent work of our Cyber Fraud Task Force, we were able to prevent nearly $180,000 in losses, deprive TdA gang members of money to fund their crimes, and set up the deportation of two criminal illegal aliens," said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. "We are proud to stand with our local, state, and federal partners to stop this criminal scheme in its tracks."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton A. Dabbs is prosecuting the case.
Former Greenwood Policeman Sentenced for Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS - Jamario Sanford, 38, of Greenville, MS, was sentenced today to seven and a half years in federal prison after pleading guilty on a previous date to conspiracy to aid and abet, and to attempt to aid and abet, the possession, transportation and distribution of illegal narcotics.
According to court documents, the defendant was arrested on October 30, 2025. At the time of the offense, Sanford received multiple bribes while being employed as a law enforcement officer with the Greenwood Police Department.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated, “This conviction resulted from the hard work and dedication of agents with the FBI who invested time and resources to bring this case home. Our citizens expect dedication and professionalism from law enforcement, and in this case, they got it. A special thanks also to the prosecutors in this case, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Mims and Sam Stringfellow, they are excellent prosecutors who are driven to protect their fellow Mississippians.”
Chief Judge Debra M. Brown sentenced Sanford to 90 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Sanford was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals following sentencing.
FBI Special Agent in Charge of the FBI-Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff said, “We hold positions of trust and serve as stewards of authority within our community. Sanford betrayed his oath to protect and serve when he chose instead to shield criminals from accountability. We will continue working alongside our community partners to rebuild and strengthen public trust in law enforcement. The FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to aggressively investigate and bring to justice those who abuse their authority."
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Robert Mims and Sam Stringfellow prosecuted the case.
4,000 Videos and 17,000 Images of CSAM Sends Booneville man to federal prison and paying over $100,000.00 to the VictimsRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – A Booneville, Mississippi man was sentenced today to four years in prison for possessing images and videos of children under 12 engaging in sexually explicit conduct. Additionally, he was sentenced to ten years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender where he lives, where he works, and where he is a student. United States District Judge Michael Mills also ordered $107,000 as restitution to this man’s victims.
According to court documents, Joshua Honeycutt, 42, was found with over 4,000 videos and 17,000 images of child sexual abuse material. Many of the images portrayed children between 5 and 10 years old.
The FBI, Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department were all involved in the investigation of the case.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated, “All children are safer now that this person has been locked up. Not only will he have to serve time in a federal prison, but he will also be forced to register as a sex offender everywhere he goes. While money does not begin to make up for the victimization of these children, the restitution in this case will help the victims get the assistance they need. I am thankful for the partnership our office continues to have with our Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, Prentiss County Sheriff’s Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.”
“Every video viewed and image produced contributes to the ongoing harm and victimization of vulnerable children,” stated Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office, Robert Eikhoff. “Honeycutt exploited the innocence of our youth, and such conduct will not be tolerated. The FBI and our law enforcement partners remain dedicated to aggressively combating child sexual exploitation and protecting children from further abuse.”
“Child sexual abuse is a horrific crime that does extraordinary physical, mental, and emotional damage to the victim. And when it is recorded or photographed, that child’s trauma occurs over and over again,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “I appreciate the strong partnership our office has with the U.S. Attorney’s Office and the FBI. Together, we are dedicated to serving justice for the victims and making Mississippi a safer place for every child.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood.
Project Safe Childhood is a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. 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.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Cleveland Shootout Lands Convicted Felons in Federal PrisonRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – Jamarcus Miller, 38, of Cleveland, Mississippi, was sentenced by Chief U.S. District Court Judge Debra M. Brown, to 80 months in prison. He had previously pleaded guilty to possessing ammunition as a prior convicted felon. Earlier this year, Senior U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Jamario Hodges, 32, also of Cleveland, to 70 months imprisonment followed by a 3-year term of supervised release. Hodges had previously pleaded guilty to felon in possession of a firearm.
The ammunition was recovered by the Cleveland Police Department when officers responded to a shooting at a local convenience store. Video surveillance showed Miller and Hodges, engaging in a shootout near gas pumps before fleeing the area. The shell casings near where Miller had been shooting were seized. When officers located Hodges, he was in possession of a firearm with a Glock switch.
Both Miller and Hodges were convicted felons. The two were charged separately by a federal grand jury for possessing ammunition or firearm as felons and pled guilty.
Miller and Hodges are also under state indictment for the shooting in the Circuit Court of Bolivar County, Mississippi, where the charges remain pending.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “The Mississippi Delta is an important part of our district. There is no room here for violent criminals such as Jamarcus Miller and Jamario Hodges. They both put innocent people in danger with their actions and we are not going to allow that to happen. As prior convicted felons, a firearm should never have been in their hands. Our office, along with our partners in the federal and local law enforcement agencies, are making sure those who are violent offenders are arrested and taken off our streets.”
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff stated, “Miller’s and Hodges’ actions instilled fear and put innocent members of the community at risk. Their conduct showed a blatant disregard for the law and the safety of the public. The FBI, along with our law enforcement partners, remains firmly committed to protecting the community and ensuring that repeat violent offenders are held accountable for their crimes.”
The Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Cleveland Police Department, along with the United States Marshals Service investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Addison prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Homeland Security Task Force Operation Discovers 500 Fentanyl Capsules (Disguised as Percocet) in the MailRead the Press Release
Aberdeen, MS – Medford Delon Eiland, 39, of Louisville, Mississippi, was sentenced to 51 months in federal prison and 5 years supervised release after previously pleading to Conspiracy to Distribute and Possession with Intent to Distribute Fentanyl in Excess of forty grams. Senior U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Eiland.
On March 7, 2022, a Priority Express Mail was mailed from Tolleson, Arizona and addressed to Eiland in Louisville, MS. A USPIS inspector identified the parcel as suspicious and detained it. After a federal search warrant was obtained, the parcel was opened and found to have a heat-sealed plastic bag holding numerous round blue tablets. Due to the risk of fentanyl exposure, the tablets were removed, and the parcel was returned for a controlled delivery to the residence. After the delivery, law enforcement units from USPIS, the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, the Mississippi Highway Patrol and the Winston County Sheriff’s Office approached the residence. Eiland fled into a wooded area behind his home where he was subsequently located and detained. He stated he knew the package contained narcotics but was unaware it contained fentanyl. The USPIS Forensic Laboratory Services estimated the total number of dosage units to be 500 based on its weight. Chemical analysis identified fentanyl in the pills. Additionally, Eiland’s fingerprints were located on the parcel.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “Our country has been inundated with fentanyl since our borders opened in 2020. It has devastated families and destroyed communities. Individuals, including our young people, trust the wrong people and pay the ultimate price with their health or even their life. We are working on slowing this tragedy down by closing our borders and stopping the flow of illegal drugs on our streets. One way is through the prosecution of people like Mr. Eiland. We will continue to do our part in putting these traffickers behind bars. Please join us in spreading the word about the dangers of drug use.”
“Mr. Eiland callously ordered a massive quantity of deadly fentanyl pills that would have continued poisoning our communities and destroying lives in the process,” said Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff. “The FBI has zero tolerance for illegal drugs, and such criminal activity will not be tolerated. This sentencing underscores the commitment of the FBI, HSTF, and our law enforcement partners to safeguarding our communities from illegal drugs.”
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Jackson comprises agents and officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Air and Marine Operations, U.S. Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Stringfellow prosecuted this case.
Venezuelan Gang Member Sentenced for "Jackpotting" and Ordered to Pay RestitutionRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – A Venezuelan man with ties to the Tren de Aragua (TdA) international gang was sentenced today for conspiracy to commit bank fraud by United States District Judge Michael P. Mills. Darrin Daza-Segura, 26, living as an illegal alien in Dallas, Texas, was sentenced today to ten months with three years of supervised release. Additionally, he is to pay the victim $47,250 in restitution.
According to court documents, upon release of this prison sentence, the defendant will be surrendered to the custody of ICE for removal from this country. He will not be allowed to re-enter without the written permission of the Secretary of Homeland Security.
Commonly known as “Jackpotting,” Daza-Segura and his co-defendant Winder Alexander Canelon-Tiapa travelled throughout Mississippi and reprogrammed bank ATMs to disperse large amounts of cash. They successfully stole $47,000 from ATMs at Mississippi banks and attempted to steal much more. ATM Jackpotting is a significant problem throughout the country and is a known crime commonly perpetrated by members of the TdA gang from Venezuela.
Winder Alexander Canelon-Tiapa has also pled guilty in this case is set to be sentenced before Judge Mills on May 28, 2026.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “These Venezuelan gang members have been categorized as terrorists. In Mississippi, you can trace where they go from Interstate 55 and Highway 45. They do not live here but have come to victimize our citizens in North Mississippi. We are not going to stand for such actions in this district.”
The Cyber Crime Division of the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office investigated the case.
“Criminals are always finding new, innovative ways to steal your hard-earned money," said Attorney General Fitch. “And when it gets in their hands, sometimes it funds their criminal enterprises. Working together with our federal, state, and local partners, we were able to stop a dangerous TdA gang member from defrauding Mississippians and potentially using your money to finance their crimes.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clayton A. Dabbs is prosecuting the case.
Memphis Fugitive Sentenced to over Seven Years for Illegal Possession of Seven FirearmsRead the Press Release
OXFORD, Miss. – Keon J. Carwell, of Memphis, Tennessee, was sentenced today to 87 months in federal prison, 3 years supervised release, for possessing seven firearms as a prior convicted felon after he was located in Hernando, Mississippi.
At the time of his arrest, the 39-year-old Carwell was wanted as a fugitive for eight years stemming from a federal gun charge in the Western District of Tennessee from 2016. On March 31, 2024, officers with the Hernando Police Department conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle Carwell was riding in. Further investigation confirmed Carwell’s identity and active warrant. Officers found Carwell in possession of seven firearms, including a pistol identified as stolen in a burglary of a federal firearms licensee store, a rifle with an obliterated serial number and a sawed-off shotgun. Six of the guns were loaded. Carwell pled guilty to the charge on a prior date.
Senior U.S. District Court Michael P. Mills sentenced Carwell to 87 months imprisonment followed by a 3-year term of supervised release.
U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary stated, “The Declaration of Independence stands as one of the greatest man-made documents ever written. It is the very foundation of our country. The Declaration states that we get our rights not from government, but from God. That our government was instituted to secure these God-given rights, and that our government derives its rights from the people of this great country. I hope the people of the Northern District of Mississippi are proud of their law enforcement officers, especially the people of Hernando, Mississippi. The Hernando Police Department conducted an investigation and apprehended a man that had been a fugitive for eight years. When arrested, the defendant was in possession of seven firearms, some of which were stolen and extremely dangerous. A community is safer today as a result of their hard work. A hardy thanks also to the ATF, day in and day out your trustworthiness in bringing these cases to fruition is commendable.”
“In our effort to disrupt violent gun crime in our community, ATF will continue to focus efforts on prohibited individuals who unlawfully possess firearms,” said ATF New Orleans Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson. “The sentence imposed today sends a message that ATF will continue to work alongside our partners at the U.S. Attorney’s Office to ensure these offenders are removed from our communities and held fully accountable so we can keep our neighborhoods safe as the top priority for ATF.”
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, along with the Hernando Police Department, investigated the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Addison prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
Illegal Alien from Mexico Sentenced for Distribution of Child Pornography via Facebook MessengerRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN, MS– U.S. Attorney Scott Leary and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) announced today that a Mexican national, illegally in the United States, was sentenced to 121 months in prison, five years supervised release and $14,000 in restitution for knowingly distributing and receiving visual depictions of a minor engaging in sexually explicit conduct through the popular internet application Facebook Messenger. He had previously pled guilty to these charges.
According to court documents, Adolfo Raul Vasquez-Santana, 32, of Southaven, Mississippi, downloaded and shared violent videos that depicted the sexual abuse of children.
Vasquez-Santana was investigated by the Southaven Police Department responding to a tip that the agency received from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children. HSI determined Vasquez-Santana was illegally present in the United States and pursued federal charges.
Senior U.S. District Court Judge Sharion Aycock sentenced Vasquez-Santana including requiring him to pay $14,000 to the victims for restitution.
Officials with ICE have placed an immigration detainer on the defendant, to result in his removal from the United States following the conclusion of his federal sentence.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “Child pornography is a plague. Children are victimized not only through the production of obscene material, but through its continual distribution. Somehow, this debauchery has gained a foothold in our society. We need the public’s help. Please, when you see something troubling, let law enforcement know – we will respond. A heartfelt thanks goes to the Southaven Police Department and HSI investigators. Federal and state law enforcement working together to get these perpetrators off the streets is what the public expects us to do. Well done! Again, the Northern District of Mississippi has the best child exploitation prosecutors in the nation, and Julie Addison is one of them.”
“HSI is committed to protecting children from predators who use technology to exploit them. When we received information about Vasquez-Santana, our agents acted quickly to investigate, arrest and bring this individual to justice. We remain vigilant against child predators and will continue to pursue these offenders wherever they operate,” said Matt Wright, acting Special Agent in Charge for HSI New Orleans. “Our partners at Enforcement and Removal Operations (ERO) will ensure that once the defendant completes his federal sentence, he is removed from the United States and unable to pose further risk to our communities.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Julie Addison prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
Additionally, this case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Homeland Security Task Force Operation Concludes with 19th Defendant Pleading GuiltyRead the Press Release
GREENVILLE, MS – Harold Cook, 55, of Fort Worth, Texas, pleaded guilty today after a federal jury was selected. This concludes a major Homeland Security Task Force operation involving 19 defendants, more than 25 kilograms of cocaine and $150,000 in drug proceeds and multiple vehicles seized.
According to court documents, Harold Cook and his co-defendants were charged in an indictment including cocaine conspiracy, money laundering conspiracy, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime, possession with intent to distribute cocaine. His co-defendants include:
- Roy Ramirez (sentenced to 54 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Juan Carlos Mercado (sentenced to 46 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Javier Cardenas (sentenced to 54 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Thalmus Pace (sentenced to 60 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Willie B. Hayes (awaiting sentencing)
- Christopher Lomax (awaiting sentencing)
- Michael Hughes (awaiting sentencing)
- Derek Mosley (awaiting sentencing)
- Edyee Rascon-Mendoza (sentenced to 20 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Vinton Maclin (sentenced to 20 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Alyrone Green (awaiting sentencing)
- Jerry Moody (awaiting sentencing)
- Andre Rawls (sentenced to 110 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Marvin Hilliard (sentenced to 20 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Orlando McKinney (sentenced to 18 months, 3 years supervised release)
- Dewayne Smith (sentenced to 120 months, 3 years supervised release)
Harold Cook will be sentenced at a later date by Chief United States District Judge Debra M. Brown. Cook was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals following his plea of guilty.
U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary stated, “We are all aware of the devastation that drug trafficking and violent gangs have visited on our communities. Liberating neighborhoods from the scourge of violent crime is not only a national priority, it is the top priority for the Northern District of Mississippi. The Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative was established by Executive Order in 2025. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, human smuggling and drug trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. This HSTF investigation typifies the interagency collaboration envisioned by our law enforcement community. State and Federal agents, working together, convicted over a dozen defendants and seized over 25 kilograms of cocaine. By dismantling this drug trafficking organization, hundreds of pounds of drugs will be taken off our streets and lives will be saved. Awesome job by the Desoto County Sheriff’s Department, without your help this case would not have been possible. Likewise, DEA-Oxford, Mississippi worked closely with DEA-El Paso, DEA-Fairview Heights (Illinois) and the United States Marshal’s Service to bring this case home. Well done all!”
"This operation is a testament to what we can achieve when federal, state, and local law enforcement stand together as a united front,” said DEA Special Agent in Charge Steven Hofer. “We are sending a clear message that criminal organizations have no place in Mississippi. Through the HSTF, we will continue to use every resource available to protect our citizens and uphold the rule of law across the Northern District."
This case was prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys Sam Stringfellow and Julie Addison.
Fentanyl, Heroin, Cocaine, Meth, Illegal Firearm and Dirty Money Seized Thanks to Homeland Security Task Force OperationRead the Press Release
Aberdeen, MS – Two Louisville men have been sentenced today. Aaron Hughes, 33, and Warren Goss, 58, were convicted of possession with the intent to distribute methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, despropionyl fentanyl and heroin. Hughes was also convicted of a firearms offense.
Hughes was sentenced on March 24, 2026, to 108 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release. Goss was sentenced on May 12, 2026, to 70 months in federal prison and 3 years supervised release. Both were sentenced by Senior U.S. District Judge Sharion Aycock.
These convictions resulted from a Homeland Security Task Force operation conducted by the FBI, HSI and Louisville, Mississippi Police Department.
United States Attorney Scott Leary stated, “The Homeland Security Task Force has allowed the relationships we have always had with our federal and local law enforcement partners to do more to keep our citizens safe in this district. The full might of our United States is behind us to make sure we identify, investigate and prosecute crimes such as these. We have zero tolerance for fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin and illegal firearms. We will continue to work to make sure any and all individuals are put away, where they belong, if they bring these dangerous drugs and firearms into our communities.”
FBI Special Agent in Charge of the FBI-Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff said, “the FBI and its law enforcement partners remain committed to protecting our communities from the devastating impact of violent crime and illegal drugs. Hughes and Warren have been held accountable, and their case serves as a strong warning to anyone engaged in similar criminal activity. The FBI will continue to aggressively pursue those who threaten the safety and well-being of our communities.”
“Through the Homeland Security Task Force, our partnerships continue to make a meaningful difference in protecting the people of Mississippi and the broader HSTF Core 15 Region,” said Matt Wright, Acting Special Agent in Charge, HSI New Orleans. “This case demonstrates how collaboration yields stronger outcomes, and the sentencing of Hughes and Goss is a clear reminder that offenders who harm our communities will be held accountable.”
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Jackson comprises agents and officers from U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Drug Enforcement Administration, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – U.S. Border Patrol, U.S. Customs and Border Protection – Air and Marine Operations, U.S. Marshals Service, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Internal Revenue Service – Criminal Investigation, U.S. Coast Guard Investigative Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Enforcement and Removal Operations (ICE ERO) with the prosecution being led by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Stringfellow and Julie Addison prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the Northern District of Mississippi recognizes National Fentanyl Awareness DayRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that the Northern District of Mississippi, recognized the fourth annual National Fentanyl Awareness Day on April 29, 2026. This awareness helps to inform communities about the fentanyl crisis in the United States.
Our office is joining a coalition of issue area experts, corporations, nonprofits, schools, families and elected officials who are coming together to raise public awareness of the urgent problem: people are dying at alarming rates due to illicitly manufactured fentanyl and fake prescription pills. Organized by the national nonprofit Song for Charlie, National Fentanyl Awareness Day uses education as the first step in preventing tragic outcomes.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “In 2020, our borders opened up and fentanyl poured into our country. Within a year a thirty-dollar contraband fentanyl pill was selling on our streets for mere dollars. Fentanyl now shows up in all kinds of different drugs. Kids made the immature decision to take a pill that resulted in death. Tens of thousands of families throughout our nation were left devastated. Several things can be done now to slow this continued tragedy. First, close our border and slow the flow of fentanyl and illegal drugs onto our streets. Prosecute fentanyl traffickers to the full extent of the law. And finally, get the word out - recreational drug use can be fatal. The National Fentanyl Awareness Day is part of this response. The United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi will do our part in putting these traffickers behind bars. Please join us in spreading the word about the dangers of drug use.”
“We’re encouraged by recent signs of progress in reducing overdose deaths,” said Ed Ternan, co-founder of Song for Charlie. “But our work isn’t done. With our expanded educational resources like our new film for teens, Real Talk about Fake Pills, we’re working to reach every student, parent, family and community with the knowledge they need to navigate today’s drug landscape safely. No family should lose a child because they didn’t know a pill was fake.”
Song for Charlie is the leading national, family-led nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness about "fentapills"—fake pills made of fentanyl. Ed and Mary Ternan created Song for Charlie after losing their son Charlie to a fentapill in 2020. Song for Charlie partners with experts, educators, parents and other influencers to reach the most vulnerable group: young people between the ages of 13-24. Its programs highlight the emerging dangers of self-medication and casual drug use in the fentanyl era and encourage healthier strategies for coping with stress. For more information, please visit www.songforcharlie.org
"GUILTY" - A Federal Jury Convicts a Repeat Criminal of Hobbs Act and Use of Firearm in the Commission of a Violent CrimeRead the Press Release
Greenville, MS – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that Carleone Pate, Jr., 21, of Lexington, Holmes County, Mississippi was convicted of Hobbs Act Robbery and Use of a Firearm in the Commission of a Violent Crime. Pate had recently been released from the Mississippi Department of Corrections after serving a three-year prison sentence for two aggravated assault convictions committed in August 2022 in DeSoto County. He was on bail at the time of the robbery for which he stood trial.
According to court documents, on the morning of January 19, 2023, in the small Black Hawk community of Carroll County, Mississippi, a masked gunman entered the Dollar General located at the intersection of Highways 430 and 17 and demanded the money from the cash register and safe. The swift response from the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office led to the search and eventual arrest of the defendant. He was found guilty on both counts in addition to the jury finding that he brandished the firearm during the robbery. He will be sentenced by Chief United States District Judge Debra M. Brown on a future date.
The evidence presented at trial confirmed that the defendant was successfully identified through the thorough investigative work of the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office. The Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, working with the Mississippi Highway Patrol and surrounding law enforcement agencies, worked diligently to limit the defendant’s escape routes. After perimeter checkpoints were established, Pate was arrested in the woods of northern Holmes County by an off-duty game warden, assisted by a maintenance technician with the Mississippi Department of Transportation.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “This case would not have been possible absent the professional work of the Carroll County Sheriff’s Office, the Mississippi Highway Patrol and fellow law enforcement agencies. Federal involvement was part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to work with state and local law enforcement to protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. The United States Attorney’s Office is honored to work with such brave and professional officers who work tirelessly to protect our communities. Well done!”
Carroll County Sheriff Clint Walker said, “The Black Hawk Dollar General Store is a vital part of our community. It serves our citizens, and they should be able to shop there without fear of robbery. I am thankful to the Lord for His protection and for justice being served. We are grateful to our deputies, to all of the various law enforcement agencies who participated in Pate’s apprehension, and certainly to the US Attorney’s Office for their relentless determination in prosecuting this case. Last but not least, I extend our great appreciation to the citizens who served as jurors during this trial, their commitment to fairness and their thoroughness resulted in a just verdict.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Sam Stringfellow, Kaylon McCou, Clyde McGee, IV and Bob Norman.
Natchez Trace Parkway Ranger Recognized for Outstanding Work with VictimsRead the Press Release
OXFORD – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary is proud to have recognized Law Enforcement Ranger Dylan Romine from the National Park Service on April 20, 2026, for his outstanding work and service on behalf of crime victims in the Northern District of Mississippi. Ranger Romine was given the Carolyn Clayton Victims’ Service Award as part of the District’s recognition of National Crime Victims’ Rights Week.
In the predawn hours of May 11, 2024, Mother’s Day, a family was changed forever. A twenty-year-old chose to drive on the Natchez Trace Parkway while under the influence of alcohol. His actions resulted in a head on collision that claimed the life of a father and severely injured a minor child who were on their way to a local fishing tournament.
Dylan Romine, a law enforcement Ranger with the National Park Service, was the first Ranger to respond to that scene. Ranger Romine worked to ensure that lifesaving care was received by the minor victim and that crucial investigative steps were taken. He later provided testimony that was described by a U.S. Magistrate Judge as among “the most competent and compelling testimony” he had ever heard from a law enforcement officer. The work that he and other law enforcement Rangers with the NPS performed following those tragic events led to a 240-month sentence for the defendant.
Those are normal things that society expects from their law enforcement officers. Ranger Romine went above and beyond in his actions in that case. He worked to ensure that the victims were informed and assisted throughout the process and worked to make sure that their voices were heard and their rights were protected. His dedication to the victims’ family was noticed throughout the criminal justice process by the Assistant US Attorney who worked on this case and nominated him for this Award.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “So often we take for granted the wonderful work provided by our law enforcement professionals. They miss holidays and birthdays protecting Mississippians from crime. Our officers run to danger, not away from it. Our office is honored to recognize Ranger Romine, and all the other law men and women who work selflessly for us. Dylan Romine embodies the best of what we expect from our men and women who put on a badge. The victims of this crime were tragically made part of the criminal justice system, and Ranger Romine treated them with the dignity and care they deserved.”
Superintendent of the National Park Service Wendy Hart Ross said “The Natchez Trace Parkway is incredibly proud of Ranger Romine’s dedication and professionalism. He adheres to strict investigative protocol while supporting victims, their families, and their communities during times of crisis. His work exemplifies the highest standards of public service and this award is well-deserved.”
Carolyn Clayton embraced the role of victims’ advocate at a time when there was no such thing. Her daughter was murdered at a time when there were no laws on the books defining victims’ rights and she had to rely on the media for information. Clayton championed victims’ rights in Mississippi and worked tirelessly to bring about changes to laws affecting those touched by violent crime. In her honor, the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi awards the Carolyn Clayton Victims’ Service award to recognize law enforcement or individuals who have demonstrated tremendous efforts and service to crime victims.
Final Defendant in Homeland Security Task Force Initiative Case Sentenced to 10 Years for Cocaine DistributionRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – Christopher Mack, 48, of Sardis, was sentenced today to 120 months in prison for distribution of cocaine. His co-defendant, Irish Lee of Como, pleaded guilty to distribution of cocaine and was sentenced to sixty months in a previous court proceeding.
According to court documents, Mack pleaded guilty of sale and distribution of cocaine before the Honorable Michael P. Mills, Senior United States District Court Judge.
U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, Scott F. Leary made the announcement. He stated, “This operation and conviction resulted from another FBI sponsored Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative. For years our border was open, and drugs poured into our country unencumbered. As a consequence, many of our communities were decimated by drug trafficking and violent crime. HSTF is a response to this reality, establishing a multi-agency partnership dedicated to ending the drug cartel influence in our country. Drug trafficking is not limited to our cities, many smaller communities are also detrimentally affected. Through HSTF initiatives, the FBI directs resources to such damaged communities. Hopefully Sardis, Mississippi, will benefit from the FBI’s hard work.”
Robert Eikhoff, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office said, “Poisoning our communities and destroying lives will not be tolerated. Christopher Mack learned the hard way that those who choose to distribute illegal drugs will be held accountable. The FBI and its law enforcement partners will continue to identify, investigate, and bring to justice anyone who violates federal laws designed to protect our communities."
Assistant U.S. Attorney Chad M. Doleac prosecuted the case.
Memphis Resident Sentenced for Federal KidnappingRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – Elmer Smith, 39, of Memphis, Tennessee, pled guilty and was sentenced today to over 14 years in prison for kidnapping a victim as a result of domestic violence.
According to court documents, on February 15, 2024, he left Memphis, TN searching for the victim, with whom he was involved in an intimate relationship, and found her at her employment in Southaven, MS. At that time, he physically assaulted the victim, abducting her by force into his vehicle and taking her to Memphis, TN without her consent. A short time later, Memphis Police Department located the victim and arrested Elmer Smith.
Senior U.S. District Court Judge Michael P. Mills sentenced Smith today to 170 months in prison followed by 3 years of supervised release. Smith was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals following sentencing.
“In 2024, an individual felt entitled to travel from Memphis to the Northern District of Mississippi, kidnap a lady and return her to Memphis,” U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary emphasizes, “Such conduct is unconscionable and will not be tolerated in our district. Hopefully, criminals understand if you travel to Mississippi to commit a crime, you will be caught, prosecuted and jailed. A special thanks goes to the Southaven Police Department, the FBI and to the Memphis Police Department. You have the public’s back, and it is much appreciated.”
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff said, “Today’s sentence sends a clear message: the violent and reprehensible acts committed by Elmer Smith will not be tolerated. There is no excuse for the abuse or the profound trauma inflicted on the victim. The FBI remains committed to working alongside our law enforcement and community partners to ensure individuals who threaten public safety are held fully accountable for their actions. We commend the Southaven Police Department and the Memphis Police Department for their professionalism and collaboration throughout this investigation.”
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorneys Philip Levy and Robert Mims.
Pontotoc Man Sentenced on Federal Kidnapping ChargesRead the Press Release
Aberdeen, MS – A Pontotoc man was sentenced today to over 14 years in prison on federal kidnapping charges when he forcibly took his victim from Alabama to Mississippi and then to Tennessee where she escaped.
According to court documents, Luis Carlos Noyola, 50, previously pled guilty to the charges in the indictment which show on or about April 19, 2025, Noyola did unlawfully “seize, confine, abduct, carry away and hold” a female victim. After kidnapping the victim in Cherokee, Alabama, he forced her to travel against her will to Corinth, Mississippi, located in the Northern District of Mississippi. Additionally, Noyola forced her to travel from North Mississippi into McNairy County, Tennessee. After the victim escaped in Tennessee, Noyola fled back to Corinth, where he was arrested.
During the course of the kidnapping, Noyola struck the victim multiple times, causing her bodily injury. Senior U.S. District Court Judge Glen H. Davidson sentenced Noyola today to 175 months imprisonment. Upon release from prison, Noyola will be placed on supervision for a period of five years. Noyola was remanded to the custody of the U.S. Marshals following sentencing.
“We live in a wonderful place but understand, it is still a dangerous world,” expressed U.S. Attorney Scott Leary. “In this case, a man kidnapped an older lady and took her across state lines. State and local law enforcement responded immediately, and the subject was ultimately arrested in Corinth, Mississippi. In such situations an aggressive response by law enforcement is not only required, it is laudable. Excellent work by the Corinth Police Department; the Cherokee, Alabama, Police Department; the Colbert County, Alabama, Sheriff’s Office; and the McNairy County, Tennessee, Sheriff’s Office; and the FBI. Stay safe!”
Landon Tucker, Chief of Police for the Corinth Police Department stated, “The Corinth Police Department would like to thank the FBI, the Cherokee (Alabama) Police Department, the Colbert County (Alabama) Sheriff’s Office, and the McNairy County (Tennessee) Sheriff’s Office. This successful outcome was made possible by the coordinated efforts of all involved agencies.”
“Noyola’s victim endured profound trauma that will have lasting effects for the remainder of her life,” said Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff. "Kidnapping reflects a blatant disregard for human life, personal safety and the rule of law. The FBI, in coordination with its law enforcement partners, remains steadfast in its commitment to aggressively pursuing violent offenders and upholding justice within our communities.”
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Corinth Police Department, Cherokee, Alabama, Police Department, Colbert County, Alabama, Sheriff’s Office, and McNairy County, Tennessee, Sheriff’s Office.
This case was prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Robert Mims.
Lowndes County Man Sentenced in Homeland Security Task Force Investigation for Trafficking MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
OXFORD, MS – A Lowndes County man was sentenced to thirteen years for trafficking in excess of fifty grams of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, Calvin Baskin, 55, of Columbus, Mississippi previously pled guilty in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District to Mississippi to the charge stemming from his arrest on August 8, 2024. Baskin was sentenced by U.S. District Court Judge Glen H. Davidson to 157 months in prison for the charge. He was further sentenced to five years supervised release following his release from prison.
U.S. Attorney Scott F. Leary, who made this announcement, said, “Mississippians are historically hard workers, not perfect by any means, but dedicated hard workers. Together we have progressed, creating a State that is a wonderful place to live and raise a family. However, some communities here face daily violence driven by the illegal drug trade. To help these communities requires hard work, dangerous work, tirelessly pursued by our state and federal officers. On one level this case may seem mundane, but it is not. This investigation and prosecution reflect the daily vigilance exhibited by state and federal law enforcement. Working together, day by day, we can help our communities be places of safety where hard work and devotion pay off. A special thanks to Sheriff Eddie Hawkins and his Lowndes County office and the DEA for making this a reality.”
“Methamphetamine trafficking brings nothing but misery and crime to our doorsteps,” said Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Assistant Special Agent in Charge Anessa Daniels-McCaw. “This sentence reflects the gravity of the threat posed by illegal drugs and the power of interagency cooperation. The DEA and our partners will never waver in our efforts to identify, investigate, and prosecute the individuals who prioritize profit over the safety and well-being of our community."
Sheriff Eddie Hawkins, stated, “We are grateful for the strong partnership between the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office, the Drug Enforcement Administration, and the Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics in bringing this case to a successful conclusion. We also appreciate the diligent prosecution by the United States Attorney's Office, whose work ensured that justice was served. This sentencing sends a clear message that those who traffic illegal drugs and endanger our communities will be held accountable. Through continued cooperation, intelligence sharing, and coordinated enforcement efforts, we remain committed to protecting the citizens of Lowndes County and keeping our communities safe.”
The Drug Enforcement Administration, the Lowndes County Sheriff’s Department, Mississippi Bureau of Narcotics, and U.S. Marshal’s Service investigated and assisted with the case.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
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 United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States.
This case is also a part of Project Safe Neighborhoods (PSN), a program bringing together all levels of law enforcement and the communities they serve to reduce violent crime and gun violence, and to make our neighborhoods safer for everyone. On May 26, 2021, the Department launched a violent crime reduction strategy strengthening PSN based on these core principles: fostering trust and legitimacy in our communities, supporting community-based organizations that help prevent violence from occurring in the first place, setting focused and strategic enforcement priorities, and measuring the results.
###
Fifth Circuit Affirms Former Amory School Teacher's Conviction and 192 Year Sentence for Abusing StudentsRead the Press Release
NEW ORLEANS, La. – The United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit has affirmed the conviction and sentence of Toshemie Wilson, 50, a former educator in the Amory School District who was sexually abusing students over a ten year period. Wilson was found guilty of eight counts of sexual exploitation of children by a federal jury to which he was given 24 years for each count by United States Chief Judge Debra M. Brown.
Testimony at trial revealed that the defendant exploited his students for his sexual pleasure. Seven victims testified at trial that the abuse spanned from 2007 until at least 2016. The conduct was exposed by one former student coming forward to report the conduct.
Wilson challenged several aspects of the trial including his argument that he did not produce the child exploitation material for anything but to “conduct scientific research.” The Fifth Circuit dismissed that argument and stated that the jury “evidently believed the victims.” Wilson will continue to serve the remainder of his 192-year sentence at a federal prison.
The investigation was a joint effort by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office, and many state and local officers.
United States Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi, Scott F. Leary, made the announcement. Additionally, Leary said “Our motto, found on the Mississippi Coat-of-Arms, is the Latin phrase “Virtute et Armis” – Virtue and Arms. Virtue is a trait of character exhibiting inner strength and personal integrity, resulting in morally good conduct. The Latin phrase “armis” refers to military equipment and is often used in phrases indicating force. As citizens of this great country, we must vigilantly protect the vulnerable from injustice, at times through “Armis”. No self-respecting nation should ever submit to wrongs committed against its children. In this case a victim came forward and courageously reported this crime. State and federal authorities then worked together and ended a reign of terror perpetrated by a predator teacher. A 192-year sentence is justice. Hopefully the victims of this crime can move on with their lives knowing justice was served. The Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and the FBI did an excellent job investigating this case. Our prosecutors are pros, convicting the defendant at trial and seeing the case through appeal. Well done all.”
Special Agent in Charge of the FBI Jackson Field Office Robert Eikhoff said, “The justice system got it right. Wilson’s conviction highlights the FBI’s and our law enforcement partners’ unwavering commitment to protecting minors from predators. Those who exploit positions of trust to harm children will be held accountable.”
“This case serves as a reminder that those who abuse positions of trust will be prosecuted to the fullest extent,” said Attorney General Lynn Fitch. “We are grateful for the Court’s decision to uphold this conviction. Thank you to the U.S. Attorney’s Office for their partnership and diligent work on this case. My hope is that these victims and their families can move forward and find healing.”
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Parker S. King and Clyde McGee prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Multiple Indictments, Arrests for Drug Distribution and Firearms Violations as a Part of Homeland Security Task Force InvestigationRead the Press Release
Oxford, MS – U.S. Attorney Scott Leary announced today that a federal grand jury returned separate indictments on March 25, 2026, charging eight individuals with drug distribution and one of those including charges as a felon in possession of firearms. All of these defendants were arrested today.
According to court documents the following individuals were indicted by a federal grand jury in the Northern District of Mississippi:
- Gary “Rooster” Ransom, 49, of Clarksdale, Mississippi, indicted for drug distribution and felon in possession of firearms
- Daniel Baker, 40, of Cleveland, Mississippi, indicted for drug distribution
- Madeline Tonos, 31, of Cleveland, Mississippi, indicted for drug distribution
- Patrick Smith, 34, of Cleveland, Mississippi, indicted for drug distribution
- Valerie Ingram, 42, of Cleveland, Mississippi, indicted for drug distribution
- Joshua Fulton, 40, of Cleveland, Mississippi, indicted for drug distribution
- Londyn Todd, 23, of Cleveland, Mississippi, indicted for drug distribution
- Merrick Smith, 47, of Dallas, Texas, indicted for drug distribution
The U.S. Marshals Service and Cleveland Police Department provided invaluable assistance in today’s arrests. The FBI is investigating the case.
U.S. Attorney Scott Leary stated, “Last year the administration established the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF), a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating the scourge of drug cartels and the resulting drug trafficking and violent crime that affects our communities. HSTF is comprised of federal and state law enforcement professionals who conduct dangerous work protecting the citizens of our state. These selfless officers do a heroic job identifying and dismantling drug trafficking organizations in North Mississippi. This HSTF operation stemmed from a months-long multi-agency investigation. A special thanks to Cleveland Police Chief Dudley Tribble. His cooperation with the FBI made this investigation possible.”
Indictments are only charges and not proof of guilt. Our constitution guarantees that defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty. If convicted, a federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. There is no parole in the federal system.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Chad Doleac and Sam Stringfellow 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.
Violent International Fugitive Indicted on Federal Firearm and Immigration ChargesRead the Press Release
OXFORD – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that the international fugitive, arrested earlier this week in Lee County, has been indicted on federal firearms and immigration charges brought by the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Adrian Walker, 28, a Canadian national, was indicted for an illegal entry offense and for being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. These charges follow Walker’s arrest earlier this week. Walker was wanted by the Toronto Police Services on a Canada-wide arrest warrant for first degree murder and attempted murder, following a May 7, 2024, violent shooting in Toronto, Canada. For that offense, he has been named as a “Most Wanted Person” by the Toronto Police Services.
Walker was captured in Tupelo, Mississippi, on Monday, March 23, 2026, by law enforcement agents including the United States Marshals Service (USMS) and their Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE)-Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). He was initially arrested on an arrest warrant for an immigration violation.
U.S. Attorney Leary stated, “As previously stated, this was a serious case. A Canadian national, wanted for murder, entered our country illegally and was living in our midst. This case highlights the danger our law enforcement agents face while doing their job. Our agents and officers work for you and are more than willing to place themselves in harm’s way to protect our citizens. Working together, we can make Mississippi a safer place. A special shout out goes to our partners at United States Marshals Service, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement, Homeland Security Investigations, and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Good job! Please know that the United States Attorney’s Office has your back.”
This case is being prosecuted by Clyde McGee and John Herzog Jr.
This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Blue Springs Man Sentenced for Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
ABERDEEN– A Blue Springs, Mississippi man was sentenced today to ten years in prison and ten years of supervised release for distributing child sexual abuse materials over an Internet application.
According to court documents, Kristopher Brandon Holcomb, 44, was uploading child pornography on a popular mobile application from July 2024 to May 2025. Holcomb was communicating with others he believed to be minors on the application and sending them child sexual abuse material. The investigation revealed over 60 videos and 192 images on his electronic devices.
In addition to 120 months in prison, Holcomb was also sentenced to ten years of supervised release and will have to register as a sex offender after release from prison. In addition to the sentencing, Judge Sharion Aycock awarded restitution for the victims identified in the images and videos that requested compensation.
This investigation was started by the Internet Crimes Against Children Task Force through the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and continued to be investigated by Homeland Security Investigations.
“Your government has many priorities, but chief among them is keeping our citizens safe. And the most important aspect of community safety is keeping our children safe,” stated Scott F. Leary, U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Mississippi. “A society that cannot protect its kids is failing in its most important responsibility. Tragically, we live in a world where child exploitation is prevalent. Please join us in combatting these crimes. When citizens notice something improper concerning children, we urge you to report this to law enforcement. In this case, ICAC (Internet Crimes Against Children) was notified of suspicious material. Our partners at the Mississippi Attorney General’s Office and HSI conducted an investigation and apprehended this criminal. Parker King, the Project Safe Childhood lead prosecutor in our office, successfully prosecuted the case. In this one case children are no longer being victimized. Let’s keep this going.”
“The possession and distribution of child sexual abuse material is a heinous crime that inflicts lasting harm on the most vulnerable members of our society,” said Assistant Special Agent in Charge, Matthew Reidell, Homeland Security Investigations. “HSI is committed to protecting children and bringing offenders to justice. Today’s sentence reflects our unwavering dedication to safeguarding children from exploitation and ensuring that those who commit these offenses are held accountable.”
Assistant U.S. Attorney Parker S. King prosecuted the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the U.S. 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
Violent International Fugitive Arrested in Lee County, Northern District, MississippiRead the Press Release
OXFORD – United States Attorney Scott F. Leary announced today that an international violent fugitive was arrested in the Northern District of Mississippi on an immigration related charge brought by the United States Attorney’s Office for the Northern District of Mississippi.
Adrian Walker, 28, a Canadian national, is wanted by the Toronto Police Services on a Canada-wide arrest warrant for first degree murder and attempted murder, following a May 7, 2024 violent shooting in Toronto, Canada. For that offense, he has been named as a “Most Wanted Person” by the Toronto Police Services.
The United States Marshals Service (USMS) and their Gulf Coast Regional Fugitive Task Force, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) learned that Walker was using an alias and hiding from Canadian law enforcement in Tupelo, Mississippi. Agents with HSI were able to determine that Walker had illegally entered into the United States without inspection. officials. HSI special agents were able to obtain an arrest warrant for an immigration offense. Monday afternoon, Walker was captured by federal and state law enforcement.
Walker has been charged in the Northern District of Mississippi. ICE’s Enforcement and Removal Operations has placed an immigration detainer on Walker to ensure he is transferred into ICE custody and not released into the community following the conclusion of any charges he faces in the Northern District of Mississippi. At that time, they will be pursuing removal from the United States to Canada to face justice for the murder and shooting offenses for which he has been charged.
USA Leary stated, “This was a serious case. A Canadian national, wanted for murder, entered our country illegally and was living in our midst. He even made a Canadian Most Wanted list. Seeking sanctuary in Mississippi is not a smart move. The U.S. Marshals for the Northern District of Mississippi, together with ATF and HSI, conducted a multi-day operation to safely locate and apprehend this individual. After their great work, he was in U.S. custody. Those that continually criticize law enforcement are not in the arena; our agents and officers are, and the folks in our district can sleep soundly knowing law enforcement officers did their job. Thank you!”
“This investigation is an example of the continued priority of ATF to work with our federal, state, local and international law enforcement partners to support public safety and reduce violent crime,” said ATF Special Agent in Charge Joshua Jackson.
“Walker, an international fugitive wanted on murder charges in Canada, believed he could evade capture by hiding in the Northern District of Mississippi,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Matt Wright of HSI, New Orleans. “Thanks to the coordinated efforts of HSI; the U.S. Marshals Service; ATF, and our state and local partners, he was safely apprehended on federal immigration charges and is now one step closer to facing justice in Canada.”
Robert Dickerson, Senior Inspector, United States Marshal Service, stated, “The United States Marshals Service will always seek justice for those involved in violent crimes, no matter if they occur domestically or internationally. If you bring criminal activity into our country, you will be held accountable.”
This case is being prosecuted by Clyde McGee and John Herzog Jr.
This case was investigated and prosecuted by the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) as part of Operation Take Back America. HSTFs, which were established by President Trump in Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion, are joint operations led by the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security. Operation Take Back America is a nationwide federal initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.