District of Nebraska
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Winnebago Man Sentenced for Domestic Assault by an Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Lawrence S. Bassette, age 40, of Winnebago, Nebraska, was sentenced November 13, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for domestic assault by an habitual offender in Indian Country. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Bassette to 21 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Bassette’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.
In December 2022, Bassette assaulted an elderly male victim known to him by punching the victim multiple times with a closed fist. During the ensuing scuffle, an elderly female was also injured. Prior to his assault on the victim in December 2022, Bassette had already been convicted on multiple occasions of domestic violence offenses in federal and tribal courts.
This case was prosecuted in federal court because the offense was a felony and occurred on the Winnebago Indian Reservation in Nebraska.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Ringleader of Wire Fraud Conspiracy SentencedRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Abas Ali, age 22, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced November 8, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for conspiring to commit wire fraud and aggravated identity theft. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Ali to 27 months’ imprisonment on the wire fraud charge and 24 months’ imprisonment on the aggravated identity theft charge for a total of 51 months. There is no parole in the federal system. After Ali’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release on both charges.
A task force of Sarpy County, Douglas County, and Pottawattamie County agencies was assembled to investigate a significant spike in the Omaha and Council Bluffs metro areas in burglarized vehicles. The modus operandi of the thefts was that one member of the conspiracy would drive a vehicle slowly through a residential neighborhood while other members of the conspiracy, called “runners,” would enter vehicles parked in driveways or parked on the street outside of the residence and steal property like credit cards, identification, computers, money, and other valuables.
The members of the conspiracy would then take the stolen cards from the vehicles to area stores like Wal-Mart and other retailers and buy drinks, food, and prepaid cards that they would load up with money from the stolen cards. They would also purchase money orders to further conceal the source of the proceeds and the money orders would be deposited back to bank accounts or bitcoin accounts belonging to the members of the conspiracy.
Law enforcement was able to identify and arrest all five members of the conspiracy.
Co-conspirator Hassan Mohamed was sentenced on June 12, 2024, to 20 months imprisonment on the wire fraud charge and 24 months on the aggravated identity theft charge for a total of 44 months.
Co-conspirator Hazem Sarmin was sentenced on June 14, 2024, to 18 months imprisonment on the wire fraud charge and 24 months on the aggravated identity theft charge for a total of 42 months.
Co-conspirators Ian Betkie will be sentenced December 5, 2024, and Bead Chan will be sentenced January 3, 2025. Both pled guilty to wire fraud and aggravated identity theft.
This case was investigated by the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Kansas Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Brandon L. Hutchinson, age 39, of Wichita, Kansas, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, after having pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. Chief United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Hutchinson to 240 months’ imprisonment. Hutchinson also forfeited $ $2,033.37 seized in the investigation. There is no parole in the federal system. After Hutchinson’s release he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On July 16, 2023, law enforcement received an anonymous tip that a fugitive was staying with Hutchinson at a Columbus motel and that he was in possession of controlled substances. Columbus police officers went to the motel where they confirmed that Hutchinson was currently renting a room.
After a drug detecting canine indicated to the odor of narcotics coming from within the room rented by Hutchinson, officers knocked on the door which was opened by Hutchinson who indicated the fugitive was within. The fugitive was removed and Hutchinson was secured until a search warrant was obtained.
After a warrant was obtained, a search of the room revealed approximately 1700 grams of meth in a bag with men’s clothing, approximately 200 “M 30” fentanyl pill along with suspected fentanyl powder, scales, baggies, a 9 mm Taurus handgun within arm’s reach of the drugs, and approximately $2033.37 in cash, most of which was found on Hutchinson’s person. Lab testing found Hutchinson’s DNA on the gun.
This case was investigated by the Columbus Police Department.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 20 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine and Gun ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jesse T. Budenholzer, age 42, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha after having pled guilty to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine and being a felon in possession of a firearm. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Budenholzer to 240 months’ imprisonment. Budenholzer also forfeited $8,150 seized in the investigation. There is no parole in the federal system. After Budenholzer’s release he will begin a 10-year term of supervised release.
On November 21, 2022, law enforcement officers executed a search warrant on Budenholzer’s south Omaha residence and seized approximately 320 grams of meth, 3212 grams of DMT (a schedule I Controlled Substance), along with $8,150 in drug proceeds and a drug ledger. The drug evidence was found in Budenholzer’s bedroom. At the time of the search warrant, Budenholzer was a convicted felon and was found in the bathroom taking a shower. A gun was found in his pants laying on the bathroom floor.
A search of Budenholzer’s phone revealed texts messages with his Mexican source of supply about receiving multiple pound quantities of meth dating back to September 2022. His phone also contained pictures of multiple pounds of meth.
This case was investigated by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Possessing with Intent to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Kevin Warsocki, age 32, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced November 7, 20224 in federal court in Omaha for possession with intent to distribute 10 grams or more of fentanyl analogue. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Warsocki to 188 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Warsocki is released from prison, he will begin a 4-year term of supervised release. He will also forfeit to the United States $1,034.00 in U.S. currency that was proceeds from Warsocki distributing drugs.
On November 9, 2022, officers were called to the Hampton Inn at 11201 Davenport Street, Omaha, for a death investigation. Officers found the victim deceased in her room. A drug pipe was found next to the victim and six colorful pills, stamped M-30, suspected to be fentanyl, on the bathroom counter.
While officers were on scene, Kevin Warsocki arrived at the hotel room. Warsocki stated he went down to his car to have a cigarette and fell asleep, and when he woke up, he saw a police presence. Warsocki then returned to the hotel room, where he found an officer inside. Warsocki was then advised of the victim’s death. Warsocki was in possession of keys to a white 2004 Buick Rainier with no plates, which was in the parking lot of the Hampton Inn. Law enforcement went and looked inside the vehicle, from the outside, and observed a $20 bill in plain view on the driver's side floorboard, along with apparent residue on the steering wheel and an apparent peach colored pill on the dash that was stamped "30." Warsocki was taken to Omaha Police Department Central Headquarters, where he was interviewed post-Miranda, and Warsocki admitted to possessing the pill that was seen in the vehicle and he confirmed it was fentanyl.
Upon searching the vehicle, officers located a total of 122 multi-colored pills that were stamped "M" on one side and "30" on the other. These pills were tested at the lab and were confirmed to be fentanyl. Two of the pills were found near the driver's seat with one on the top of the dashboard and another on the driver's side door threshold. The other 120 pills, along with 5 blue rectangle pills stamped "B707," were found in a rear compartment of the vehicle on the driver's side in a compartment cubby. The five pills tested positive for Alprazolam. When Warsocki was initially detained, he was found to have $1,034.00 on his person. The pills found in the driver's area of the vehicle matched the other 120 pills that were found in the rear compartment and all tested positive for fentanyl. Warsocki also met with other individuals that night in and around the hotel and sold them fentanyl pills.
This case was investigated by the Overdose Drug Task Force, which is comprised of law enforcement from the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Omaha Police Department, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and Nebraska State Patrol.
Mexican National Sentenced to 11 Years for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Edwin J. Correa Miranda, age 26, of Mexico, was sentenced on November 7, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Correa Miranda to a total of 132 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Correa Miranda’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On August 17, 2023, a trooper stopped a vehicle traveling east bound on Interstate 80 in Hamilton County, Nebraska, for following too closely. The driver was identified as co-defendant Juan Martinez Arroyo and the passenger was identified as Edwin Correa Miranda. Each defendant gave conflicting stories on their travels and a drug dog was requested at the scene. The dog made a positive alert to the presence of narcotics.
A search of the vehicle was conducted and inside of the trunk, troopers found a duffle bag containing 11 packages that later tested positive for meth. The State Patrol Crime Lab confirmed the meth weighed a total of 24,777 grams. A loaded Ruger handgun and a magazine containing five rounds were also found under the passenger seat.
Co-defendant Juan Martinez Arroyo was previously sentenced to 11 years imprisonment and a 5-year term of supervised release on October 23, 2024, by Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Bataillon.
This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol.
Lincoln Man Sentenced for Prohibited Person in Possession of AmmunitionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Dexter Hall, age 37, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced November 7, 20224 in federal court in Omaha for being a prohibited person in possession of ammunition. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Hall to 24 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Hall is released from prison, he will begin a 2-year term of supervised release.
On February 8, 2023, Dexter Hall entered a pawn shop in Lincoln, Nebraska and sold a box containing ten rounds of Hornady .50-caliber ammunition for $30. Mr. Hall has been previously convicted of non-violent felony offenses, namely possession of a controlled substance and possession of a firearm by a prohibited person.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives.
Lincoln Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Maurice Bryant, age 49, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on November 7, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Wolfe to 60 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Bryant’s release from prison, he will serve a 4-year term of supervised release.
In March of 2024, confidential informants working with the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force purchased meth from Bryant on two occasions for an estimated total of one ounce. On April 2, 2024, a search warrant was executed at Bryant’s Lincoln residence, and investigators found a total of approximately 59 grams of meth. Bryant agreed to talk to investigators and admitted buying and selling meth in the Lincoln area.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.
Colorado Man Sentenced for Possession of Fentanyl Pills at Omaha AirportRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Kene Coleman, age 43, of Colorado Springs, Colorado, was sentenced November 7, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Coleman to 151 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Coleman’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On August 11, 2023, Coleman arrived at the Omaha airport on a flight from Denver, Colorado. An investigator approached Coleman near the baggage carousel area and Coleman agreed to talk with the investigator. When asked about a suitcase he had, Coleman claimed the suitcase was not his. Moments later, Coleman ran away and was tackled to the ground by other officers. Search of the suitcase pursuant to a warrant uncovered approximately 6,155 fentanyl pills. At the time of the offense, Coleman was on parole for a Colorado conviction for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation with assistance from the Nebraska State Patrol and the Omaha Airport Authority Police Department.
Winnebago Man Sentenced for Being a Drug User in Possession of a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Emmett Walker, Jr, age 54, of Winnebago, Nebraska, was sentenced on November 6, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for being a drug user in possession of a firearm. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Smith to 12 months and one day imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Walker’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.
In November 2022, Walker was pulled over for a traffic violation on the Winnebago Indian Reservation. During the course of the traffic stop, Walker permitted the officer to search his car. Walker, who had recently lost his residence and many of his personal items due to a fire, had his Mossberg rifle in the trunk of the car, which he otherwise possessed legally. The officer also found a small amount of methamphetamine and Walker admitted to using meth regularly for the previous few years prior to the stop.
Federal law prohibits the possession of a firearm if the possessor is also a drug user or addict.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services.
Winnebago Man Sentenced for Assault on a Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Bryson Smith, age 33, of Winnebago, Nebraska, was sentenced on November 6, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for assault on a federal officer. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Smith to 24 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Smith’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.
In June 2023, Smith came into contact with law enforcement on the Winnebago Indian Reservation while heavily intoxicated. Smith resisted two officers’ attempts to arrest and transport him for medical care by kicking, biting, and scratching at the officers. Smith also spit into the eye of one officer, requiring the officer to seek medical treatment.
This case was prosecuted in federal court because the victims were federal law enforcement officers engaged in the performance of their official duties on the Winnebago Indian Reservation in Nebraska at the time of Smith’s assault.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and the Bureau of Indian Affairs Office of Justice Services.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Conspiring to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that Alvaro Alferes, age 33, of Omaha, Nebraska was sentenced on November 6, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute fentanyl and fentanyl analogue, and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Alferes to 57 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Alferes will be required to complete a 3-year term of supervised release.
In 2023, Alferes twice delivered fentanyl to an undercover DEA agent by leaving the pills in his Jeep in a grocery store parking lot in Omaha. The undercover agent set up the buys through a Mexico-based supplier. Each time, Alferes delivered over 1,000 pills.
On August 4, 2023, investigators executed a court-authorized search warrant at Alferes’s residence which led to the seizure of over 1,000 more fentanyl pills and Alferes’s arrest. Investigators also found two digital scales with methamphetamine residue in a backpack in the garage. The backpack also contained heat sealed bags containing suspected drug residue. A sandwich baggie containing suspected cocaine was found in the Jeep in the driveway.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Lincoln Woman Sentenced for Drug Possession and Violation of Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Tiffany Alice Wolfe, age 41, of Lincoln, Nebraska, was sentenced on November 6, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and violation of supervised release. Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Wolfe to a total of 174 months’ imprisonment. She received a sentence of 162 months’ imprisonment on the drug charge and was ordered to serve a consecutive, (additional) 12-month prison term for violating the terms of her supervised release from a prior federal drug conviction by committing a new crime. There is no parole in the federal system. After Wolfe’s release from prison, she will begin a new 5-year term of supervised release.
On April 26, 2023, Wolfe was a passenger in an SUV which was stopped by Lincoln Police officers for a traffic violation. The SUV, and its contents, including Wolfe’s purse, were searched. In her purse, officers found a shard of meth and 47 small plastic baggies, and a digital scale was found under her seat. Wolfe was taken to the Lancaster County Jail where she admitted she had additional meth on per person and provided a bag of meth to jail staff. She told officers she had just purchased it in Omaha prior to her arrest and eventually admitted she intended to sell some of it to customers in Lincoln. Testing at the Nebraska State Patrol Crime Lab showed the bag contained at least 100 grams of actual meth.
At the time of Wolfe’s arrest, she was serving a 3-year term of supervised release after completing federal prison terms for a prior federal conviction for conspiracy to distribute meth a prior supervised release violation. Wolfe was sentenced to 123 months’ imprisonment in 2017 on the prior drug conviction and 14 months in 2022 on the prior supervised release violation.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.
Gretna Couple Sentenced for Conducting an Unlicensed Money Transmitting BusinessRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Kenneth Breyer, age 75, and Elaine (a.k.a. Edith) Breyer, age 74, both of Gretna, Nebraska, were sentenced on November 6, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for conducting an unlicensed money transmitting business. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced both Kenneth and Elaine Breyer to five years of probation. Chief Judge Rossiter also ordered the Breyers to pay $55,000 in restitution.
An investigation conducted by the United States Postal Inspection Service determined that in early 2023, an elderly victim, who resided in Louisville Kentucky, was falsely informed by an unknown individual that she had won $18.5 million in the Publisher’s Clearing House. The unknown individual directed the victim to send $100,000 to various addresses for the purported reason of pre-paying taxes and fees for her winnings to be released. The victim was instructed by the unknown individual to send $70,000 of those proceeds to the Breyers.
Between February 3, 2023, and February 13, 2023, the Breyers received three separate mailings from the victim which contained payments totaling $70,000. The Breyers then transmitted $55,000 of the victim’s funds to others involved in the fraudulent scheme who were located outside of Nebraska. The remaining $15,000 was seized by law enforcement from the Breyers before the funds could be distributed.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service.
Grand Jury Indicts Norfolk Man for Multiple Child Pornography ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that the Grand Jury in the District of Nebraska has returned an eight-count Indictment against Noah Hale, age 20, of Norfolk, Nebraska. The Indictment charges Hale with the sexual exploitation of six minors between September 2022 and February 2024.
Counts 1 through 4 of the Indictment charge Hale with production of child pornography—each count involving a separate minor victim. Each of these offenses are punishable by a mandatory minimum term of 15 years and a maximum of 30 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a term of supervised release to follow his term of imprisonment of not less than 5 years and up to a lifetime of supervision, and several possible special assessments payable to the court and to special victim funds.
Counts 5 and 6 of the Indictment charge Hale with attempted production of child pornography—each count involving separate minor victims. Both counts are punishable by the same possible punishment as Counts 1-4.
Count 7 of the Indictment charges Hale with receipt of child pornography. This offense is punishable by a mandatory minimum of 5 years and a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a term of supervised release to follow his term of imprisonment of not less than 5 years and up to a lifetime of supervision, and several possible special assessments payable to the court and to special victim funds.
Count 8 of the Indictment charges Hale with possession of child pornography. This offense is punishable by a maximum of 20 years imprisonment, a fine of up to $250,000, a term of supervised release to follow his term of imprisonment of not less than 5 years and up to a lifetime of supervision, and several possible special assessments payable to the court and to special victim funds.
Hale appeared for his arraignment and detention hearing on November 1, 2024, before the Honorable Magistrate Judge Jacqueline M. DeLuca. He was ordered detained pending trial at the conclusion of the hearing. A preliminary examination will not be held as the Grand Jury has found probable cause in returning the Indictment. A finding of probable cause is not a finding of guilt and Hale is presumed innocent of these charges until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
U.S. Attorney Lehr commended the FBI for the intensity with which they investigated this case. Due to their efforts a number of victims were identified and charges were able to be filed.
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 United States Attorneys’ Offices and the Criminal Division's Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS), Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.projectsafechildhood.gov.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Possession of Cocaine as Repeat OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Ricardo Muro, age 42, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced November 4, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Muro to 225 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Muro’s release from prison, he will begin an 8-year term of supervised release.
On January 17, 2023, agents with a DEA task force intercepted a package of marijuana addressed to Muro's business in Omaha. A controlled delivery of the package and search of the business pursuant to a search warrant uncovered more marijuana and THC gummies. Muro's house in Omaha was also searched pursuant to a warrant. Inside, agents found approximately one kilogram of cocaine, marijuana, THC cartridges, and $9,380 cash.
Muro has two prior federal drug trafficking convictions, which enhanced his statutory minimum sentence and his advisory guideline sentence. The $9,380 will be ordered forfeited to the United States as proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Nebraska State Patrol.
Arizona Man Sentenced in Fentanyl ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Daniel Raymundo Alvillar, age 46, of Phoenix, Arizona, was sentenced on November 4, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Alvillar to 78 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Alvillar is released from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.
On January 12, 2023, a Nebraska State Trooper in marked patrol unit and parked on Interstate 80 in Hamilton County, observed a vehicle without a front license plate. As the Trooper proceeded to drive towards the vehicle, he observed a traffic violation and initiated a traffic stop.
The driver was identified as co-defendant Jesus Quinones Dominguez. The passenger was identified as Alvillar. Quinones consented to a vehicle search after informing the Trooper that he had a screwdriver in his pocket. Troopers noticed two screws missing from the plastic cover of the tailgate. The Trooper observed a heat-sealed bag inside the tailgate on the truck. The Trooper then took off the plastic cover and discovered 11 heat sealed bags containing blue pills with the impressions “M30” on them, known as fentanyl pills. In total, 11.28 pounds were recovered. A forensic lab found all representative samples of the pills tested positive for fentanyl, with a total weight of 5,071.9 grams.
Post-arrest, Quinones admitted to the drugs and transportation. He was being paid $4,000 to drive the drugs to Chicago. According to Quinones, he told Alvillar he would split the payment with him.
Alvillar denied knowledge of the drugs but did provide consent to search his cell phone. On his phone, were photographs, both stock and taken by the phone of small blue “M30” pills – same as the pills being transported. The phone had images of marijuana as well as narcotics discussions involving cannabis, “weed,” “20 sack,” and “blues” – a reference to M30 pills.
Alvillar’s co-defendant, Jesus Daniel Dominguez, is scheduled for trial on December 17, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Possession of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Kevin McWilliams, age 32, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced October 30, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced McWilliams to 130 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After McWilliams’s release from prison, he will begin a 4-year term of supervised release.
On March 14, 2023, Omaha police stopped a vehicle in which McWilliams was the front seat passenger. The driver consented to a search of the vehicle. As McWilliams exited the vehicle, he was clutching his waistband area. When asked why, McWilliams presented a half-empty 200 ml bottle of liqueur. Officers began a search of McWilliams and felt a large bulge near his crotch. The bulge turned out to be a gallon size Ziplock bag with meth weighing approximately 265 grams. Lab testing confirmed 258.6 grams (0.569 pounds) of a substance containing meth.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department.
Nigerian National Sentenced for Conspiracy to Commit Wire FraudRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Alex Ogunshakin, age 41, a Nigerian citizen, was sentenced on October 31, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for conspiracy to commit wire fraud. Senior United States District John M. Gerrard sentenced Ogunshakin to a total of 45 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Ogunshakin’s release from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release and is subject to removal from the United States.
From sometime no later than January 2015, continuing to the September 2016, Ogunshakin participated in a scheme to defraud U.S. based businesses. As a part of the scheme, Ogunshakin and other individuals participated in a business e-mail compromise scheme in which co-conspirators used compromised e-mail accounts to send spoofed e-mails to thousands of business employees who handled accounting, to include authorizing and sending wire transfers. A spoofed e-mail is one in which the e-mail appears to be originating from a sender other than who is truly the sender. Co-conspirators spoofed e-mail addressed to pose as the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) or other business executives and would direct recipients of the e-mail to complete wire transfers. The business employee, thinking the wire transfer request was legitimate, would comply with the wire transfer and send money to a location providing in wiring instructions. Ogunshakin and other co-conspirators provided bank account information to the co-conspirators who sent the spoofed e-mails to the business executives.
In February 2015 and May 2015, two Nebraska based businesses were targeted by the scheme. The investigation into the scheme revealed over 70 U.S. based business were victimized and the loss amount exceed $6 million, with attempted losses exceeding $30 million.
Ogunshakin and the co-conspirators committed the offense from outside the United States, mostly from Nigeria. At the request of the United States, Nigerian authorities arrested Ogunshakin for the purpose of his extradition in October 2020, a court in Nigeria found him extraditable in July 2023, and Nigerian authorities extradited him to the United States in September 2023. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided substantial assistance in securing the arrest and extradition of Ogunshakin in coordination with the FBI’s Legal Attaché in Abuja, Nigeria’s Office of the Attorney General and Federal Ministry of Justice, and the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission.
Ogunshakin’s co-conspirator, Adewale Akinloye, was sentenced to 96 months’ imprisonment in February 2019. Co-conspirators Richard Uzuh, Felix Okpoh, and Nnamdi Benson all remain at large. Co-conspirator Abiola Kayode’s extradition proceedings are ongoing.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation and prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Lecia E. Wright for the District of Nebraska.
Santee Woman Sentenced for Child Abuse and NeglectRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Santeena McBride, age 35, of Santee, Nebraska, was sentenced October 30, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for felony child abuse and neglect. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced McBride to 48 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After McBride is released from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On May 23, 2022, the Santee Sioux Nation Police Department received an intake from the Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services related to a minor child in need of a welfare check at a home on the Santee Sioux Nation Indian Reservation. Santee Tribal Police responded to the home where the minor child was found to be living in unsanitary conditions. The minor child was pale and not moving. Investigation revealed the child had not been receiving adequate care and she was hospitalized for both anemia and malnutrition. Investigation revealed McBride was responsible for the minor’s care and McBride had placed the minor in a situation that endangered her life or physical health, which resulted in serious bodily injury to the child.
This case was charged in United States District Court because McBride and the minor child are both Native American and the offense, a felony level child abuse offense, occurred on an Indian Reservation giving rise to federal jurisdiction.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
California Man Sentenced to 8 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine ChargeRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Saul Chavez, age 20, of Indio, California, was sentenced today in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, after having pled guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. United States District Court Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Chavez to 96 months’ imprisonment. Chavez also forfeited over $25,000 seized in the investigation. There is no parole in the federal system. After Chavez’s release he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release.
On June 13, 2023, during a controlled purchase operation, Chavez distributed approximately a pound of meth to an undercover law enforcement officer in Omaha. Surveillance identified Chavez was using a California-plated vehicle and staying at a local Omaha motel.
On June 15, 2023, investigators conducted surveillance on Chavez and observed him drive away from the motel. He was stopped by an Omaha police officer and a subsequent search of his vehicle revealed one pound of meth.
During a post-arrest interview, Chavez admitted his vehicle contained a concealed compartment. Investigators located the compartment and discovered $25,622 and over 30 pounds of meth inside.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Omaha Police Department.
Sidney Man Sentenced for Possessing with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Fentanyl and Illegally Possessing a FirearmRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Isidro Alvarado, age 36, of Sidney, Nebraska, was sentenced on October 28, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, and one count of felon in possession of a firearm. Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Alvarado to 240 months’ imprisonment on the drug charge and 120 months on the gun charge. The sentences are to run concurrently. There is no parole in the federal system. After Alvarado is released from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
From July 2021 to July 2022, Alvarado and others worked together to sell meth and fentanyl in and around Kearney, Nebraska. In November 2021, Alvarado sold meth and a shotgun to a confidential informant (CI). The investigation into Alvarado and his co-defendant revealed he was dealing meth and fentanyl around the Kearny area and sending money from drug proceeds back to Mexico. Alvarado had a prior felony conviction for drugs, making him ineligible to possess a firearm.
Alvarado’s co-defendant, Samantha Miller, was sentenced to 60 months’ imprisonment in February 2024.
This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol and FBI.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Possessing with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine, Fentanyl and CocaineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Robert Carodine, 34, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced on October 25, 2024 in federal court in Omaha for one count of possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and 400 grams or more of fentanyl and one count of possession with intent to distribute 500 grams or more of cocaine. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Carodine to 300 months’ imprisonment on each count. The sentences are to run concurrently. There is no parole in the federal system. After Carodine is released from prison, he will begin a 4-year term of supervised release. Carodine will also forfeit to the United States $25,299.00 in United States currency and jewelry and watches that were from drug proceeds.
In February 2022, law enforcement was tracking Carodine’s cell phone location data and observed that his phone traveled from Omaha, Nebraska, to Phoenix, Arizona. Based on an ongoing investigation, law enforcement believed Carodine traveled to Arizona for the purpose of trafficking controlled substances.
Carodine traveled to Arizona to purchase, package, and send narcotics to Nebraska. While in Arizona, Carodine mailed four boxes—two addressed to his residence in Omaha and two addressed to stash house in Omaha. The boxes weighed 39, 23, 37 and 37 pounds, respectively. When the boxes arrived in Omaha, agents obtained a search warrant to search the boxes. Inside the boxes agents recovered various quantities of cocaine, fentanyl, and methamphetamine. The boxes contained approximately 2.28 kilograms of cocaine, 8.09 kilograms of fentanyl, and 47.87 kilograms of methamphetamine.
On February 25, 2022, agents searched Carodine’s residence and apartment. In the residence, agents found cash, a Rolex, cannabis, and two firearms: a Springfield XSD 45 caliber semi-auto handgun found in a kitchen drawer, and a Boomer 44 revolver found in the master bedroom. In the apartment, agents found .45 caliber ammunition in a kitchen cabinet, a drug ledger in the kitchen, $16,499 in cash, 359.6 grams of methamphetamine in kitchen cabinets, marijuana, and another 2,095 grams of suspected cocaine.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Las Vegas Man Sentenced for Involvement in Drug ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Alejandro Dominguez Delapena, 26, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was sentenced on October 25, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska, for conspiracy to distribute and possess with the intent to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine actual, 500 grams or more of meth mixture and a mixture or substance containing marijuana. Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Delapena to 102 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Delapena’s release from prison, he will begin a five-year term of supervised release.
Between about February of 2020 and May of 2022, information obtained by law enforcement indicated Delapena was having packages of meth delivered to several residences in Lincoln. It was believed that Delapena received multiple pounds of meth at a time in shipments from outside Nebraska. Delapena is estimated to have been responsible for the distribution of more than 165 pounds of meth mixture during that timeframe in the Lincoln area.
This case was investigated by the Lincoln/Lancaster County Drug Task Force.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Possession of Fentanyl Pills and FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Gene Milton, Jr., age 28, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced October 24, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Milton to a total of 300 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Milton’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
“Fentanyl is terrible for our society,” Judge Buescher said while pronouncing sentence. Judge Buescher added: “I sit back and wonder, if these 30,000 pills had gotten into the community, what would have happened?”
On December 4, 2023, Omaha police executed a search warrant at an Omaha residence where Milton lived with his girlfriend and minor children. Inside of a bedroom, officers found more than 30,000 fentanyl pills, three loaded firearms, and three Glock full auto conversion devices. One of the firearms was a Glock pistol with a fully automatic conversion device, which allowed the pistol to fire as fully automatic. Officers also seized marijuana, THC wax, psilocybin mushrooms, and $16,416 in cash.
The $16,416 in cash will be forfeited to the United States as proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 25 Years for Possession of Fentanyl Pills and FirearmsRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Gene Milton, Jr., age 28, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced October 24, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for possession with intent to distribute 400 grams or more of fentanyl and possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Milton to a total of 300 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Milton’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
“Fentanyl is terrible for our society,” Judge Buescher said while pronouncing sentence. Judge Buescher added: “I sit back and wonder, if these 30,000 pills had gotten into the community, what would have happened?”
On December 4, 2023, Omaha police executed a search warrant at an Omaha residence where Milton lived with his girlfriend and minor children. Inside of a bedroom, officers found more than 30,000 fentanyl pills, three loaded firearms, and three Glock full auto conversion devices. One of the firearms was a Glock pistol with a fully automatic conversion device, which allowed the pistol to fire as fully automatic. Officers also seized marijuana, THC wax, psilocybin mushrooms, and $16,416 in cash.
The $16,416 in cash will be forfeited to the United States as proceeds of illegal drug trafficking.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
North Platte Woman Sentenced to 10 Years for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jamie M. Hopkins, age 36, of North Platte, Nebraska was sentenced on October 17, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Hopkins to a total of 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Hopkin’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
Between July 2022 and February 2023, Hopkins led an organization responsible for distributing meth and fentanyl in and around the North Platte area. The group was responsible for the distribution of pounds of meth. She and other coconspirators were subjects of multiple controlled buys, search warrants, and arrests.
Three controlled buys from Hopkins and co-defendant, Joey Romero, occurred in July of 2022. On July 7, 2022, a Confidential Informant (“CI”) purchased 6.2 grams of meth mixture from Hopkins and Romero. On July 13, 2022, the same CI purchased 28.4 grams of meth mixture from Romero in Hopkins’ car in a grocery store parking lot. On July 29, 2022, the CI purchased 26 grams of meth actual from Hopkins and Romero.
Two controlled buys from Hopkins and Romero occurred in August of 2022. On August 2, 2022, the CI purchased 26 grams of meth actual from Hopkins in a hotel room occupied by Hopkins and Romero. On August 17, 2022, the CI purchased 10 pills from Hopkins at her house. The pills later tested positive for meth and fentanyl.
On January 30, 2023, the CI purchased 36 grams of meth actual from Hopkins and a coconspirator at Hopkins’ residence. A search warrant was served on Hopkins’ house on February 7, 2023. During the search, law enforcement found multiple baggies of meth throughout the house, to include: the bedroom, Hopkins’ purse, and in a toilet of a bathroom. Law enforcement also found 2 bongs, 29 pills, owe notes, 3 scales, spoons with residue, 224 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a box of Winchester 380 ammunition with 23 rounds in it, and empty baggies in the home. The baggies of meth were tested by the State Patrol Crime Lab. The lab confirmed the samples contained 35.85 grams of a meth mixture.
Romero pleaded guilty and is set for sentencing on December 12, 2024.
This case was investigated by the CODE Task Force which is made up of law enforcement agencies throughout a 22-county area in west-central/southwest Nebraska and includes the North Platte Police Department, Lexington Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Ogallala Police Department, Nebraska State Patrol, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Norfolk Man Sentenced for Possession with Intent to Distribute Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Gustavo Araiza, Jr., age 28, of Norfolk, Nebraska, was sentenced October 23, 20224 in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Araiza, Jr. to 180 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Araiza, Jr. is released from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
An undercover officer was utilized to purchase drugs directly from Araiza, Jr. On September 27, 2023, Araiza Jr. agreed to sell one pound of methamphetamine and 100 fentanyl pills. Araiza, Jr. met the undercover officer in his vehicle with a black backpack. Araiza, Jr. removed the drugs from the backpack and sold them to the undercover officer.
On October 5, 2023, law enforcement arranged the undercover officer to purchase three pounds of methamphetamine and 100 fentanyl pills. The drug transaction took place in the undercover officer’s vehicle. The undercover officer provided Araiza, Jr. $12,500.00 in prerecorded drug fund money. Law enforcement executed a search warrant where Araiza, Jr. was staying and arrested him with all of the $12,500.00 buy money.
This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol.
Norfolk Man Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute FentanylRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Tremain Monroe, age 30, of Norfolk, Nebraska, was sentenced October 23, 20224 in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Monroe to 210 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Monroe is released from prison, he will begin a 3-year term of supervised release. Monroe will also forfeit $4,200.00 in United States currency and a 2019 Dodge Ram truck to the United States as drug proceeds.
On March 28, 2023, Monroe was involved in providing fentanyl to a victim who overdosed but was revived by Narcan. Law enforcement then purchased M-30 fentanyl pills from Monroe on two separate occasions in April 2023.
On May 3, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant on Monroe’s residence. Law enforcement seized 221 fentanyl pills, drug paraphernalia, and over 5 pounds of methamphetamine. Monroe admitted to using and selling fentanyl pills and was aware of the methamphetamine. Law enforcement also located $4,200 in U.S. currency and the 2019 Dodge Ram truck was also used to facilitate Monroe’s narcotics dealings.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Mexican National Sentenced to 11 Years for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Juan Martinez Arroyo, age 22, of Mexico, was sentenced on October 23, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of possession with intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine. Senior United States District Judge Joseph F. Bataillon sentenced Martinez Arroyo to a total of 132 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Martinez Arroyo’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On August 17, 2023, a trooper stopped a vehicle traveling east bound on Interstate 80 in Hamilton County, Nebraska, for following too closely. The driver was identified as Martinez Arroyo and the passenger was identified as co-defendant, Edwin Correa Miranda. Each defendant gave conflicting stories on their travels and a drug dog was requested at the scene. The dog made a positive alert to the presence of narcotics.
A search of the vehicle was conducted and inside of the trunk, troopers found a duffle bag containing 11 packages that later tested positive for meth. The State Patrol Crime Lab confirmed the meth weighed a total of 24,777 grams. A loaded Ruger handgun and a magazine containing five rounds were also found under the passenger seat.
Co-defendant Edwin Correa Miranda is set for sentencing on November 7, 2024, before United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis.
This case was investigated by the Nebraska State Patrol.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced for Possessing Bald EagleRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Ramiro Hernandez Tziquin, age 22, of Guatemala, was sentenced on October 23, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act. United States Magistrate Judge Michael D. Nelson sentenced Hernandez Tziquin to time served. Hernandez Tziquin has been in custody since June 6, 2024. Hernandez Tziquin is subject to removal proceedings with United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement.
On or about February 28, 2023, law enforcement received a report of a suspicious vehicle located at the Wood Duck Wildlife Management Area, located in Stanton County, Nebraska. Law enforcement arrived at Wood Duck and approached the vehicle with Hernandez Tziquin and Domingo Zetino Hernandez as the occupants. During the encounter, Zetino Hernandez admitted that he shot a bird and that it was in the trunk of Hernandez Tziquin’s vehicle. Law enforcement obtained consent to search the vehicle and found one bald eagle carcass. Hernandez Tziquin admitted to possessing the bald eagle found in the trunk of the vehicle without being permitted to do so.
Co-defendant Zetino Hernandez was sentenced to time served on November 14, 2023, for violating the Bald and Golden Eagle Protection Act.
This case was investigated by United States Fish and Wildlife Service, Office of Law Enforcement, Nebraska Games and Parks Commission, and the Stanton County Sheriff’s Office.
Arizona Man Sentenced for 51 Pounds of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Xavier Olivas-Valenzuela, age 24, of Tucson, Arizona, was sentenced October 23, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for possessing with intent to distribute more than 500 grams of methamphetamine. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Olivas-Valenzuela to 108 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On July 31, 2023, the DEA Criminal Interdiction Unit was working at the bus station in Omaha, Nebraska, when they made contact with Olivas-Valenzuela. During the contact, Olivas-Valenzuela admitted to contraband in his bag. When investigators began to search his bag, Olivas-Valenzuela ran out the door. After a short pursuit, Olivas-Valenzuela was detained. A search of his luggage resulted in 51 pounds of meth being seized. A search that night of Olivas-Valenzuela’s phone showed that he was directed to stay at a residence in the 1700 block of N. 10th Street. A search warrant was obtained for that residence. Investigators found Carlos Ruelas at the residence, along with 10 kilograms of cocaine and $68,460.
Ruelas was sentenced on October 2, 2024, to a term of imprisonment of 46 months.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Nebraska State Patrol.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Alfred Rogers, age 63, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced October 17, 20224 in federal court in Omaha for possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine and possessing a firearm in furtherance of drug trafficking. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Rogers to 180 months’ imprisonment for the drug count and to 300 months, consecutive, for the firearm offense for a total of 480 months. There is no parole in the federal system. After Rogers is released from prison, he will begin a 10-year term of supervised release. Rogers’ sentence was enhanced due to a prior serious felony drug conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance. Rogers will also forfeit $45,906.00 in United States currency to the United States as drug proceeds.
On May 23, 2022, officers of the Omaha Police Department Narcotics and SWAT units executed a search warrant at a home in Omaha. Officers located Rogers at the home. During the search, officers located 428 grams of meth, 33 grams of cocaine, 1,968 grams of marijuana, and 95 fentanyl pills. Officers also located a 9mm handgun in the ceiling rafters and $45,906 in U.S. currency.
Rogers was found guilty by a jury on July 18, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department.
Omaha Nation Man Sentenced for Domestic Assault by a Habitual OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Nelson W. McCauley, age 44, of Sioux City, Iowa, most recently residing on the Omaha Nation Indian Reservation, was sentenced on October 18, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for two counts of domestic assault by an habitual offender in Indian Country. Chief United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr., sentenced McCauley to 90 months’ imprisonment on each count to be served concurrently. There is no parole in the federal system. After McCauley’s release from prison, he will begin concurrent 3-year terms of supervised release on both counts.
In August 2023, McCauley physically assaulted a female victim known to him by striking her repeatedly with his fists. In May 2024, McCauley physically assaulted the same female victim again by striking her multiple times with his fists. The victim required medical attention after each of McCauley’s assaults to address substantial bodily injuries, including large bruises, contusions, and a hematoma on her head. Prior to his assaults on the victim in August 2023 and May 2024, McCauley had already been convicted on multiple occasions of domestic violence offenses in federal and tribal courts.
This case was prosecuted in federal court because the offenses were felonies and occurred on the Omaha Nation Indian Reservation in Nebraska.
This case was investigated by the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Omaha Man Sentenced to 132 Months’ for Receipt and Distribution of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Brian I. Gonzalez, age 44, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced on October 18, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for receipt and distribution of child pornography. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Gonzalez to 132 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Gonzalez’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. Chief Judge Rossiter ordered Gonzalez to pay a $1,500 assessment pursuant to the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance Act of 2018 (AVAA).
In August of 2023, the FBI’s Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force received CyberTips from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) that a Google User uploaded possible child sexual abuse material on three dates in March of 2023. Law enforcement obtained a search warrant to view the images in the CyberTips and confirmed the images portrayed child sexual abuse material depicting children engaging in sexually explicit conduct. The IP address associated with the CyberTips resolved to the residence Gonzalez shared with his parents. Law enforcement executed a search warrant on Gonzalez’s Google account and located images of children engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
On November 15, 2023, law enforcement executed a search warrant at Gonzalez’s residence in Omaha and seized his devices for forensic examination. Law enforcement interviewed Gonzalez and he admitted to downloading, sending, and viewing child sexual abuse material. Forensic examination and analysis of Gonzalez’s electronic devices located approximately 350 visually unique media files depicting child sexual abuse material, which included 19 videos. These media files included prepubescent children as young as infant and toddler age engaging in sexually explicit conduct.
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 United States Attorney’s 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.
This case was investigated by the Omaha FBI's Child Exploitation and Human Trafficking Task Force.
Omaha Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jeffrey Scott Beran, age 51, of Omaha, Nebraska was sentenced October 18, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, for his involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Beran to 240 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, he will begin a 10-year term of supervised release.
On March 30, 2023, the Omaha Police Department utilized a confidential informant (CI) to purchase 91 grams of meth from Beran. On May 31, 2023, another controlled buy was done utilizing a CI. The CI met with Beran, who told the CI that he had to go meet someone to get the meth. Beran was under surveillance and was observed meeting with a silver Malibu at the Oakview Mall parking lot. Beran returned to the CI and sold him 98 grams of meth.
Beran’s sentence was increased after the court determined that Beran was a Career Offender. Beran had numerous criminal convictions, including serious felony drug convictions from 2007 and 2018.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department.
Mexican Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine and Fentanyl ChargesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Rigoberto Madrid-Morga, age 34, of Durango, Mexico, was sentenced October 18, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for his involvement in distributing methamphetamine and fentanyl. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Madrid-Morga to 46 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, he will begin a 2-year term of supervised release.
In 2021, the DEA was utilizing a confidential informant (CI) to purchase narcotics from various individuals in the Omaha area. One of the targets the CI identified was Neri Mendoza-Rodriguez. Over the course of several days in April 2021, the CI and Mendoza-Rodriguez communicated regarding a controlled delivery of meth.
On April 5, 2021, law enforcement observed two individuals leave Mendoza-Rodriguez's residence and get into a vehicle registered to Madrid-Morga. Mendoza-Rodriguez drove. The two individuals were observed traveling to Village Inn where they met the CI. The CI was observed getting into Mendoza-Rodriguez’s vehicle and leaving a short time later. The CI purchased 400 grams of meth. The CI later identified Mendoza-Rodriguez as the driver and Mendoza-Rodriguez’s “cousin” as the passenger, Madrid-Morga.
On April 26, 2021, the CI contacted Mendoza-Rodriguez to purchase 1000 fentanyl pills. On April 29, 2021, the CI went to the same Village Inn and met with Madrid-Morga. The CI got into Madrid-Morga’s vehicle where he exchanged money for 106 grams of fentanyl pressed into pills.
Mendoza-Rodriguez was sentenced on March 10, 2023, to a term of imprisonment of 120 months.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Omaha Police Department.
Omaha Woman Sentenced for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Michele Waters, age 56, of Omaha, Nebraska, was sentenced October 17, 20224 in federal court in Omaha for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Waters to 180 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Waters is released from prison, she will begin a 10-year term of supervised release. Waters’ sentence was enhanced due to a prior serious felony drug conviction for conspiracy to distribute and possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
On November 14, 2022, the DEA Overdose Task Force executed a search warrant on Michele Waters’ residence. Both Waters and co-defendant Ricky Kane were present. Law enforcement seized two baggies—one contained 86 grams of actual meth and the other contained 11 grams of actual meth. In the residence’s living room is a chair that Waters sits in. Next to the chair is an end table with a drawer, where Waters keeps drugs, scales, and drug paraphernalia. The 86 grams of actual meth was found between the armrest and seat of the chair Waters was sitting in when law enforcement entered. Five fentanyl pills were located in a small box on top of the side table. Another scale and baggies were located inside the drawer of the table next to Waters.
Ricky Kane is set for trial on January 21, 2025.
This case was investigated by the Drug Enforcement Administration.
North Platte Woman Sentenced to 10 Years for Conspiracy to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Jamie M. Hopkins, age 36, of North Platte, Nebraska was sentenced on October 17, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of conspiracy to distribute 50 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Hopkins to a total of 120 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Hopkin’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
Between July 2022 and February 2023, Hopkins led an organization responsible for distributing meth and fentanyl in and around the North Platte area. The group was responsible for the distribution of pounds of meth. She and other coconspirators were subjects of multiple controlled buys, search warrants, and arrests.
Three controlled buys from Hopkins and co-defendant, Joey Romero, occurred in July of 2022. On July 7, 2022, a Confidential Informant (“CI”) purchased 6.2 grams of meth mixture from Hopkins and Romero. On July 13, 2022, the same CI purchased 28.4 grams of meth mixture from Romero in Hopkins’ car in a grocery store parking lot. On July 29, 2022, the CI purchased 26 grams of meth actual from Hopkins and Romero.
Two controlled buys from Hopkins and Romero occurred in August of 2022. On August 2, 2022, the CI purchased 26 grams of meth actual from Hopkins in a hotel room occupied by Hopkins and Romero. On August 17, 2022, the CI purchased 10 pills from Hopkins at her house. The pills later tested positive for meth and fentanyl.
On January 30, 2023, the CI purchased 36 grams of meth actual from Hopkins and a coconspirator at Hopkins’ residence. A search warrant was served on Hopkins’ house on February 7, 2023. During the search, law enforcement found multiple baggies of meth throughout the house, to include: the bedroom, Hopkins’ purse, and in a toilet of a bathroom. Law enforcement also found 2 bongs, 29 pills, owe notes, 3 scales, spoons with residue, 224 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a box of Winchester 380 ammunition with 23 rounds in it, and empty baggies in the home. The baggies of meth were tested by the State Patrol Crime Lab. The lab confirmed the samples contained 35.85 grams of a meth mixture.
Romero pleaded guilty and is set for sentencing on December 12, 2024.
This case was investigated by the Tri-City Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT). TRIDENT is a task force with law enforcement personnel from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Hastings Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Kearney Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol.
North Platte Man Sentenced to over 8 Years for Distribution of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Eddie L. Houpt, age 60, of North Platte, Nebraska was sentenced on October 17, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of distribution of 5 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Houpt to a total of 100 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Houpt’s release from prison, he will begin a 4-year term of supervised release.
On June 12, 2022, a Confidential Informant (“CI”) set up a controlled buy from Houpt. Law enforcement provided the CI with $1,300 to purchase two ounces of meth from Houpt. Houpt picked the CI up and drove around for a little while before dropping the CI off. During the drive, the CI provided Houpt the money and Houpt gave the CI a container which had two baggies containing a white crystalline substance. The State Crime Lab confirmed the substance to be 42.68 grams of a meth mixture containing at least 40 grams of actual meth.
This case was investigated by the Tri-City Drug Enforcement Team (TRIDENT). TRIDENT is a task force with law enforcement personnel from the Adams County Sheriff’s Office, Buffalo County Sheriff’s Office, Federal Bureau of Investigation, Grand Island Police Department, Hall County Sheriff’s Office, Hastings Police Department, Homeland Security Investigations, Kearney Police Department, and the Nebraska State Patrol.
U.S. Attorney Announces District Election OfficersRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced today that Assistant United States Attorneys (AUSAs) Christopher Ferretti and Shereece Dendy-Sanders will lead the efforts of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nebraska in connection with the Justice Department’s nationwide Election Day Program for the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. AUSAs Ferretti and Dendy-Sanders have been appointed to serve as the District Election Officers (DEOs) for the District of Nebraska, and in that capacity are responsible for overseeing the District’s handling of election day complaints of voting rights concerns, threats of violence to election officials or staff, and election fraud, in consultation with Justice Department Headquarters in Washington.
United States Attorney Lehr said, “Every citizen must be able to vote without interference or discrimination and to have that vote counted in a fair and free election. Similarly, election officials and staff must be able to serve without being subject to unlawful threats of violence. The Department of Justice will always work tirelessly to protect the integrity of the election process.”
The Department of Justice has an important role in deterring and combatting discrimination and intimidation at the polls, threats of violence directed at election officials and poll workers, and election fraud. The Department will address these violations wherever they occur. The Department’s longstanding Election Day Program furthers these goals and also seeks to ensure public confidence in the electoral process by providing local points of contact within the Department for the public to report possible federal election law violations.
Federal law protects against such crimes as threatening violence against election officials or staff, intimidating or bribing voters, buying and selling votes, impersonating voters, altering vote tallies, stuffing ballot boxes, and marking ballots for voters against their wishes or without their input. It also contains special protections for the rights of voters, and provides that they can vote free from interference, including intimidation, and other acts designed to prevent or discourage people from voting or voting for the candidate of their choice. The Voting Rights Act protects the right of voters to mark their own ballot or to be assisted by a person of their choice (where voters need assistance because of disability or inability to read or write in English).
United States Attorney Lehr stated that: “The franchise is the cornerstone of American democracy. We all must ensure that those who are entitled to the franchise can exercise it if they choose, and that those who seek to corrupt it are brought to justice. In order to respond to complaints of voting rights concerns and election fraud during the upcoming election, and to ensure that such complaints are directed to the appropriate authorities, AUSAs/DEOs Ferretti and Dendy-Sanders will be on duty in this District while the polls are open. They can be reached by the public at (402) 661-3700.”
In addition, the FBI will have special agents available in each field office and resident agency throughout the country to receive allegations of election fraud and other election abuses on election day. The local FBI field office can be reached by the public at (402) 493-8688.
Complaints about possible violations of the federal voting rights laws can be made directly to the Civil Rights Division in Washington, DC by complaint form at https://civilrights.justice.gov/ or by phone at 800-253-3931.
United States Attorney Lehr said, “Ensuring free and fair elections depends in large part on the assistance of the American electorate. It is important that those who have specific information about voting rights concerns or election fraud make that information available to the Department of Justice.”
Please note, however, in the case of a crime of violence or intimidation, please call 911 immediately and before contacting federal authorities. State and local police have primary jurisdiction over polling places, and almost always have faster reaction capacity in an emergency.
U.S. Attorney Alerts Public to Charity Scams in Wake of Hurricanes Helene and MiltonRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr issued a public safety alert today advising the public to be vigilant to hurricane relief fraud in the wake of Hurricanes Helene and Milton.
On Sept. 26, Hurricane Helene made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend Region and quickly caused major devastation there and across states including Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and others. On October 9, 2024, Hurricane Milton made landfall in Florida. As we have seen in the wake of previous national disasters, fraudsters will target victims of the storms along with citizens across the country who want to do what they can to assist individuals affected by the storms. Unfortunately, criminals exploit disasters for their own gain by sending fraudulent communications through email or social media and by creating deceiving websites designed to solicit contributions.
The public should exercise diligence before giving contributions to anyone soliciting donations or individuals offering to assist those affected by these storms. Solicitations can originate from phone calls, texts, social media, e-mail, door-to-door collections, flyers, mailings, and other similar methods. Before making a donation to benefit victims of Hurricanes Helene or Milton, individuals should adhere to certain guidelines, including:
- Make contributions directly to known organizations rather than relying on others to make the donation on your behalf.
- Do not be pressured into making contributions as reputable charities do not use such tactics.
- Do not respond to any unsolicited communications (e.g., e-mails and texts), and never click links contained within those messages because they may be targeting your personal information, to include bank and credit card account information, and other identifiers such as dates of birth and social security numbers.
- Rather than clicking on a purported link to a charity, verify its legitimacy by utilizing various Internet-based resources that may assist in confirming whether the organization is a valid charity.
- Beware of organizations with copy-cat names similar to but not exactly the same as those of reputable charities.
- Avoid cash donations if possible. Pay by credit card or write a check directly to the charity. Do not make checks payable to individuals.
- Know that legitimate charities do not normally solicit donations via money transfer services, and their website will normally end in .org rather than .com.
- Be cautious of e-mails that claim to show pictures of the disaster areas in attached files because the files may contain viruses. Only open attachments from known senders.
The U.S. Department of Justice established the National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) in the wake of Hurricane Katrina to deter, investigate, and prosecute fraud in the wake of disasters. More than 50 federal, state, and local agencies participate in the NCDF, which reminds the public to be aware of and report any instances of alleged fraudulent activity related to relief operations and funding for victims. Complaints of fraud may be reported online at www.justice.gov/DisasterComplaintForm. Complaints may also be reported to the NCDF at (866) 720-5721, a hotline that is staffed 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Jury Convicts Omaha Man for Selling Fentanyl that Resulted in the Death of a Four-Year OldRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced Michael Reis, age 29, of Omaha, Nebraska was convicted by a jury on October 9, 2024, in federal court in Omaha for distributing fentanyl that resulted in the death of 4-year-old. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher presided over the trial.
On March 12, 2022, Douglas County Sheriff’s Office (DCSO) Deputies were dispatched to the Aspen Grove apartment complex for an unresponsive 4-year-old. Upon arrival, deputies began CPR until an ambulance could take the child to Children’s Hospital and Medical Center. The child was later pronounced dead due to fentanyl toxicity.
DCSO crime scene investigators, laboratory technicians, and fentanyl overdose investigators assisted in the investigation. Michael Reis was eventually identified as a person of interest. On March 27, 2022, Reis was arrested on an outstanding warrant. A search warrant was executed on Reis’s phone which detailed an extensive history of selling pills to the child’s mother. Messages found in Reis’s phone from March 12, 2022, showed that Reis delivered a pill to the child’s mother and that Reis received digital payment from her.
In addition to the testimony by DCSO investigators, Dr. Robert Bowen and Dr. Suzanne Haney testified extensively on the child’s cause of death . Dr. Bowen is the Douglas County Coroner’s physician assistant (pathologist) and Dr. Haney is both the Medical Director of Project Harmony and Chief Physician of Child Abuse Pediatrics at Children’s and the University of Nebraska Medical Center.
“I am immensely proud of the team efforts of our DCSO Deputies and our local and federal partners in law enforcement, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office, to bring justice to [this child],” said Douglas County Sheriff Aaron Hanson. “Fentanyl and fentanyl dealers are a true scourge in our community. Those who deal and recklessly possess fentanyl should know that there is no room for them in a safe civil society and that they will be pursued and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.”
Sentencing is set for January 9, 2024. The penalties for distributing fentanyl resulting in death include a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 20 years. There is no maximum sentence.
Michael Reis has a second federal case in which he pled guilty to sex trafficking of a minor. Sentencing for that matter is set for December 5, 2024. The penalties for sex trafficking a minor include a mandatory minimum term of imprisonment of 10 years. The maximum sentence is life.
This case was investigated by the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office and the Drug Enforcement Administration.
Guatemalan Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine ConspiracyRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Juan Chuc-Lacan, age 25, of Guatemala, was sentenced October 4, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for his involvement in a methamphetamine conspiracy. Chief United States District Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Chuc-Lacan to 108 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release. In addition, Chuc-Lacan agreed to forfeit $14,726 as proceeds of the drug conspiracy.
On March 30, 2023, the Omaha Police Department utilized a confidential witness (CW) to purchase 91 grams of meth from Jeffrey Beran. On May 31, 2023, another controlled buy was done utilizing a CW. The CW met with Beran, who told the CW that he had to go meet someone to get the meth. Beran was under surveillance and was observed meeting with someone driving a silver Malibu at the Oakview Mall parking lot. Beran returned to the CW and sold him 98 grams of meth.
On June 2, 2023, Beran was arrested on outstanding warrants. While in custody, Beran received a text from his source asking how long it would take to meet him. Investigators were able to determine that the source was at a nearby Hy-Vee. After going to the Hy-Vee parking lot, investigators observed the same silver Malibu that Beran was seen meeting with during the prior controlled buy. Investigators made contact and observed 390 grams of pure meth sitting on the center console. The occupant, Juan Chuc-Lacan was arrested. A search of the vehicle resulted in $4106 being recovered. A door key for Victorian Inn was also found. Chuc-Lacan admitted to staying there and that additional meth would be located. Chuc-Lacan signed a consent to search form and officers recovered two additional pounds of meth and $10,620.
Chuc-Lacan’s sentence was increased due to an April 27, 2023, traffic stop that occurred in Utah. During the traffic stop, the Utah State Patrol arrested Chuc-Lacan for driving on a suspended license. During an inventory search of his vehicle, 13 pounds of meth were located. Chuc-Lacan agreed to have the amount of meth seized in Utah be combined with the meth seized in Omaha for sentencing purposes on his federal case.
This case was investigated by the Omaha Police Department and Utah State Patrol.
Kearney Man Sentenced for Multiple Child Pornography OffensesRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Tucker Steven Harders, age 26, of Kearney, Nebraska, was sentenced October 3, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for receipt and possession of child pornography and transportation of obscene materials. Senior United States Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Harders to 96 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Harder’s release from prison, he will begin an 8-year term of supervised release and be required to register as a sex offender.
In October of 2022, the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC) received a report of someone uploading photos depicting children engaged in sexually explicit conduct. NCMEC then received another eight reports in January 2023 for the same account. All of the NCMEC reports included the IP address of the offending accounts. Investigation identified the subscriber as Tucker Harders at an address in Kearney, Nebraska.
In May,2023, the Kearney Police Department served a search warrant on Harders’s physical address. Multiple electronic devices were seized and searched. A search of one of the computers located over 10,000 images of child exploitive and age difficult images, of these, over 1,000 were confirmed child pornography and over 400 were identified via hash values as known to NCMEC. These specific images were located in the downloads folder and indicated a last accessed date of May 5, 2023. The images depicted children as young as three-years-old. A review of additional files located a multitude of chats where Harders would ask for, share, or offer to trade child porn with others.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by the Kearney Police Department.
Texas Man Sentenced to 10 Months for Failing to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan T. Lehr announced that Garrett Hannes, age 37, of Houston, Texas, was sentenced on October 2, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska for failing to register as a sex offender. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher sentenced Hannes to 10 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After his release from prison, Hannes will be placed on a 5-year term of supervised release.
On June 29, 2021, Hannes was convicted of felony possession of child pornography in the 268th Judicial District of Fort Bend County, Texas. The conviction carried with it a 6-year period of supervision, and included a condition that he does not reside in any household with children under the age of 18 without approval. Hannes was also required to register as a sex offender pursuant to the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act (SORNA), a federal law.
In October 2023, Hannes moved from Texas to an apartment in Omaha, Nebraska to reside with a woman and her son. Hannes then moved in with a second woman and her three children at an address in Omaha, Nebraska in December 2023 and again in January 2024. Although Hannes was in contact with his supervising officer in Texas in February 2024 and was instructed to register in Nebraska, Hannes refused to do so.
Among the special conditions of supervision imposed by Judge Buescher are that Hannes has no contact with children under the age of 18, including his own children, and that he does not loiter near schools, parks, and playgrounds and other places primarily used by children under the age of 18, unless approved in advance by his supervising U.S. probation officer.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.
Wichita, Kansas Woman Convicted by Jury for Transportation of a Minor for ProstitutionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that a federal jury in Omaha, Nebraska, returned a guilty verdict on September 27, 2024, against Joan Robinson, age 35, of Wichita, Kansas, for one count of transportation of a minor for prostitution. The verdict subjects Robinson to a potential prison term of up to life and a minimum of ten years. United States District Judge Brian C. Buescher presided over the trial and set sentencing for January 9, 2025.
This investigation began on November 16, 2022, when Minor Victim 1 (“MV1”) and co-defendant Khalah Beard were stopped for shoplifting at a Wal-Mart in Omaha. The responding officer suspected that sex trafficking may have been involved and she reported the matter to the Omaha Police Department’s Special Victim’s Unit. MV1 was identified as a missing minor who was a ward of the state of Kansas. She had been missing for years at the time of this incident and was only 17 years old.
Throughout the investigation, it was determined that on November 12, 2022, Robinson, along with co-defendants Khalah Beard, and Alexas Davis, drove from Wichita to Omaha so that Beard, Davis, and MV1 could engage in prostitution. They checked into adjoining hotel rooms in Omaha which were booked by Robinson using her Priceline account. Photos of MV1 were used to advertise commercial sex acts online. Davis, who was in an intimate relationship with Robinson, kept track of the others and would report to Robinson about when MV1 and Beard would have “dates.” Davis was charged with making sure Robinson was receiving her “cut” of money from the other two girls’ “dates” as Robinson expected to receive half the proceeds from all the “dates.” When Robinson learned she was not getting her “share” from MV1 and Beard, she and Davis abandoned MV1 and Beard in Omaha.
The other two co-defendants both plead guilty to conspiracy to engage in sex trafficking of a minor earlier this month. The maximum prison term for both of the co-defendants is a term of up to life. Alexas Davis is set for sentencing on December 18, 2024, and Khalah Beard is set for sentencing on January 15, 2025.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
This case was investigated by Homeland Security Investigations, the Omaha Police Department, and the Wichita Police Department.
North Platte Woman Sentenced to 31 Months in Prison for Possession with Intent to Distribute MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Nikki Guerra, age 46, of North Platte, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 26, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln, Nebraska for one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine. Senior United States District Judge John M. Gerrard sentenced Guerra to a total of 31 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Guerra’s release from prison, she will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On October 15, 2023, officers with the North Platte Police Department stopped a vehicle owned by Guerra as it entered North Platte for at traffic violation. From prior intel, officers suspected the vehicle had been involved in the distribution of narcotics and suspected narcotics were currently in the vehicle at the time of the stop.
Both Guerra and the driver were asked to step back to patrol cars while officers checked their identification, and a drug dog was deployed while the traffic stop was in progress. The dog alerted to the presence of narcotics and officers conducted a probable cause search of the vehicle. In a XL men’s sized jacket pocket, officers located a pound of meth. The jacket was located on the floor of the passenger’s side seat where Guerra was sitting at the time of the stop.
The recovered meth was sent to the state crime lab where it was tested and confirmed to meth, with a purity of 95.7% for a total of 400 grams actual meth.
In sentencing Ms. Guerra, Judge Gerrard complimented the work she had done since being arrested to address her substance abuse issues.
This case was investigated by the North Platte Police Department.
Former North Platte Man Sentenced for Methamphetamine DistributionRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that John Hernandez, a/k/a “Hboy,” age 36, last of Lincoln, Nebraska, but formerly of North Platte, Nebraska, was sentenced September 26, 2024, in federal court in Lincoln for distribution of 5 grams or more of actual methamphetamine. United States District Judge Susan M. Bazis sentenced Hernandez to a total of 145 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Hernandez’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
Beginning in 2021, the FBI and CODE Drug Task Force opened an investigation into drug trafficking in the North Platte, Nebraska area. In March of 2022, law enforcement set up a controlled buy over Facebook with a third party. In the course of the buy, Hernandez was observed approaching the buy location. He was also heard on the recorded audio associated with the buy. Through surveillance and debriefings, law enforcement learned that Hernandez was the source of the meth that was sold during the controlled buy.
Law enforcement knew Hernandez to be a major source of both meth and fentanyl in the North Platte area. Law enforcement had taken reports from other drug users, concerned about Hernandez selling drugs, particularly fentanyl to young people.
In February of 2023, law enforcement responded to Hernandez’s residence and observed an 11-year-old who appeared to be under the influence of a controlled substance. In April of 2023, they recovered a Colorado runaway who had been staying at Hernandez’s house and reported using fentanyl there. The runaway was also in possession of paraphernalia frequently used to ingest fentanyl.
Hernandez’s house was the subject of a search warrant executed in May of 2023. During the execution of that warrant, Hernandez gave a Mirandized statement to officers, advising them that he was working to gather funds and planned to travel to Julesburg, Colorado to re-up his drug supply. He stated he planned on purchasing four ounces of meth and at least 100 fentanyl pills.
After being arrested in this case in Lincoln, Hernandez again gave a Mirandized statement to law enforcement. He identified himself as being the biggest meth dealer in North Platte. In talking about his various sources, Hernandez advised that he had purchased and sold at least 100 ounces of meth and approximately 2400 fentanyl pills while dealing in North Platte.
In imposing the sentence, Judge Bazis noted that Hernandez had a lengthy criminal history, which included domestic assault convictions. She surmised that Hernandez, when using drugs, is a violent and dangerous person. She also noted that investigation revealed multiple children were living in the home with Hernandez while he was dealing drugs, and he exposed them to hazardous, if not outright lethal, substances, concluding that “you have got to protect kids.”
This case was investigated by the CODE Task Force which is made up of law enforcement agencies throughout a 22-county area in west-central/southwest Nebraska and includes the North Platte Police Department, Dawson County Sheriff’s Office, Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office, Red Willow County Sheriff’s Office, Frontier County Sheriff’s Office, Nebraska State Patrol, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and Homeland Security Investigations (HSI). The Lincoln Police Department’s Safe Streets Taskforce also assisted in the arrest of Hernandez.
Winnebago Man Sentenced for Failure to Register as a Sex OffenderRead the Press Release
United States Attorney Susan Lehr announced that Richard T. Walker II, 31, of Winnebago, Nebraska, was sentenced on September 24, 2024, in federal court in Omaha, Nebraska, for failure to register as a sex offender. Chief United States District Court Judge Robert F. Rossiter, Jr. sentenced Walker to 33 months’ imprisonment. There is no parole in the federal system. After Walker’s release from prison, he will begin a 5-year term of supervised release.
On December 11, 2020, Walker was convicted in the United States District Court for the District of Nebraska of abusive sexual contact with a child under 12. As a result of his 2020 federal conviction, Walker is required to register as a sex offender for life, to include in-person appearances every 3 months to update his registration information. After his release from prison for the 2020 conviction in May 2023, Walker registered a specific address as his residence with the Winnebago Police Department in Winnebago, Nebraska. Walker later appeared at the Winnebago Police Department in July 2023 and certified the same address was still valid, yet Walker had not lived at the registered address since the end of May 2023. Walker lived in a variety of locations during June and July of 2023 and failed to update his sex offender registration to reflect his change in address.
This case was investigated by the United States Marshals Service.