District of New Mexico
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Quemado Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearm OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Quemado man pleaded guilty in federal court after law enforcement seized 13 firearms and ammunition from his property during a 2024 search.
According to court documents, in April 2024, the Catron County Sheriff’s Office was investigating residential burglaries and identified Chad Walter Gash, 43, as a person of interest. During that investigation, law enforcement determined that Gash had previously been convicted in Texas in 2014 of manufacturing or delivery of a controlled substance and that he completed his sentence in October 2019. As a convicted felon, Gash was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Investigators learned from neighbors that firearms were regularly being fired from Gash’s property and that Gash had possessed numerous firearms there. On April 30, 2024, officers executed a search warrant at Gash’s residence and recovered 13 firearms and ammunition from his bedroom and a travel trailer associated with him, along with methamphetamine and drug paraphernalia. Some of the seized weapons included an unregistered short-barreled shotgun and a destructive device.
Gash pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and faces up to 15 years in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Catron County Sheriff’s Office and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. Assistant U.S. Attorneys James Dickens and Benjamin Suslavich are prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Gash).pdfPojoaque Man Sentence to 14 Years in Prison for Sexually Abusing a MinorRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Pojoaque man was sentenced to 14 years in prison for sexually abusing a minor.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, between December 2021 and February 2022, Alexander John Duran, 31, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Pojoaque, engaged in a sexual act with a child under the age of 12.
Duran subsequently pled guilty to abusive sexual contact. Upon his release from prison, Duran will be subject to five years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Pueblo of Pojoaque Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Farmington Woman Sentenced for Assault on MotorcyclistRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington woman was sentenced to five years of probation for intentionally causing a motorcyclist to crash following an argument
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on September 2, 2024, Tenille Quintawna Peshlakai, 33, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, argued with the victim at a gas station before driving away. Peshlakai then turned around, caught up to the victim, and swerved her vehicle to block his path. This forced the victim to lay down his motorcycle and crash into Peshlakai’s vehicle. Peshlakai fled the scene before law enforcement or medical personnel arrived.
Peshlakai subsequently pled guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Department of Criminal Investigations and the New Mexico State Police. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case.
Farmington Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms Charge After Armed CarjackingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington man has pleaded guilty in federal court to federal firearms offenses following a 2022-armed carjacking in which he discharged a weapon.
According to court documents, on April 10, 2022, Myles Cordelle Dan Padilla, 34, took a motor vehicle from John Doe by force with a firearm. As a previously convicted felon, Padilla is prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition.
Padilla pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and faces up to 15 years in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Weekly Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the one-week period ending April 10, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 106 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 8 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 84 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 87 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for second degree murder, aggravated assault, drug trafficking, vehicle theft, immigration documents fraud, possession of a firearm by an alien, and prior immigration offenses.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
Former Ohkay Owingeh Police Officer Pleads Guilty to Obstruction of JusticeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A former Ohkay Owingeh Police Department officer has pleaded guilty to using his position to disclose sensitive information about a federal investigation.
According to court documents, on February 26, 2020, Justin Aguino, 31, a former police officer with the Ohkay Owingeh Police Department, placed a phone call to an individual and disclosed that a person that individual was in contact with was cooperating with federal authorities. Aguino made these statements to alert the individual to the person’s status as an informant, knowing that such disclosure could interfere with an ongoing federal investigation involving Homeland Security Investigations and the Drug Enforcement Administration. When confronted by FBI agents in 2022, Aguino denied sharing this information.
Aguino was released on conditions pending trial on July 6, 2023, but failed to appear for a child support hearing in August 2024, prompting a tribal bench warrant, and then violated his release conditions by failing to maintain contact with Pretrial Services. After the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office offered a reward for information leading to his capture, Aguino was arrested on the Ohkay Owingeh Pueblo on November 26, 2025, and was subsequently detained pending trial.
Aguino pleaded guilty to obstruction of justice and faces up to 15 months in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Santa Fe Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from Homeland Security Investigations, the Drug Enforcement Administration, the Bureau of Indian Affairs and the Region III Drug Enforcement Task Force. Assistant U.S. Attorney Niki Tapia-Brito is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Aguino).pdfShiprock Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual Abuse of MinorRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock man pleaded guilty to sexually abusing a minor over a four-year period.
According to court documents, Brian Begay, 30, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, engaged in a pattern of sexual abuse against Jane Doe between 2015 and 2019, beginning when the victim was 12 and continuing until she was 16.
Begay pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor and abusive sexual contact and faces up to life in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with the assistance of the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jesse Pecoraro is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
Phoenix Man Sentenced for Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Phoenix man was sentenced to 108 months in prison for sexually abusing a minor.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, in 2019, Jeremy Blueeyes, 26, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, engaged in sexual contact with a minor who had not yet attained the age of 12.
Blueeyes subsequently pled guilty to abusive sexual contact of a minor. Upon his release from prison, Blueeyes will be subject to ten years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Nation Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Nicholas J. Marshall is prosecuting the case as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys' Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the Internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit Justice.gov/PSC.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Weekly Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the one-week period ending April 3, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 70 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 3 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 18 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 82 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for narcotics trafficking, domestic violence, unlawful possession of firearms, alien smuggling, receipt of stolen property, and prior immigration offenses.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
Albuquerque Man Sentenced to Life Plus 60 Months for Violent Kidnapping-for-Ransom SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was sentenced to life in prison plus 60 months after a federal jury convicted him on kidnapping charges stemming from a 2018 abduction, following nearly seven years on the run from law enforcement.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, in 2018, just weeks after his release from prison for a felony firearm conviction stemming from a high-speed police chase, and while under court supervision and wearing a GPS ankle monitor, Jose Ramirez, 47, engineered a calculated and violent kidnapping-for-ransom scheme targeting his former employer, a 68-year-old business owner who had fired him years earlier for theft.
On July 25, 2018, the day before the kidnapping, Ramirez met with his co-defendants in Albuquerque and enlisted them in the scheme, which he described as a plan to retaliate against his former boss and “take him for all he had.” One co-defendant further recruited a third participant, who acted as the primary enforcer during the attack. In the early morning hours of July 26, after stealing a vehicle from a family member, cutting off his GPS monitor and discarding his phone to conceal his movements, Ramirez and his co-defendants traveled to the victim’s residence in Placitas.
At approximately 6 a.m., the defendants ambushed the victim as he exited his home. Ramirez restrained the victim in a chokehold and held a knife to his throat. During the ensuing struggle, the victim was pistol-whipped multiple times before being subdued. The defendants forced the victim into his own Ford Ranger and drove him to a remote location, where they robbed him of cash and a check, bound him, and transported him to a dilapidated shed in Albuquerque.
Ramirez held the victim captive for approximately 15 hours, during which the victim endured additional beatings. Throughout the day, Ramirez made multiple ransom calls to the victim’s daughter, demanding $9,600 and directing her to wire money to a bank account in Mexico. Despite his previous efforts to avoid detection, Ramirez used his personal cell phone to make the calls, which were traced by investigators, and he spoke directly to the victim’s daughter during a recorded call, further identifying himself.
The scheme ultimately unraveled when Ramirez failed to provide the necessary banking information required to complete the international wire transfer. After obtaining only $600 from the victim, Ramirez abandoned the ransom attempt. That evening, the victim was released in southwest Albuquerque and walked to a nearby gas station, where he called for help.
In the aftermath, Ramirez attempted to profit further by using a stolen check bearing his fingerprint, which led to an additional bank fraud conviction for an associate. He then fled New Mexico, traveling to California, where he lived under aliases and continued engaging in criminal activity. Ramirez evaded law enforcement for seven years before being apprehended in California.
On December 12, 2025, a federal jury convicted Ramirez on multiple charges, including conspiracy to kidnap, kidnapping, conspiracy to carjack, carjacking, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and extortion. Due to his more than thirty years of criminal conduct and the particularly violent and calculated nature of the crime, the government requested—and the court imposed—a sentence of life in prison plus 60 years.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Valencia County Sheriff’s Office, Albuquerque Police Department and New Mexico Corrections Department Probation and Parole. Assistant United States Attorneys Jack E. Burkhead and Sarah Mease are prosecuting the case.
Zuni Man Charged with KidnappingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man has been charged with kidnapping after allegedly sexually assaulting a woman he tricked into getting in his car by offering her a ride home.
According to court documents, on March 23, 2026, Barton Rico Cooeyate, 41, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, allegedly kidnapped and sexually assaulted Jane Doe after offering her a ride home in Zuni, New Mexico, only to transport her to an abandoned rural residence 15 miles away. The victim escaped from Cooeyate’s vehicle and hid until a Zuni Pueblo Tribal Ranger conducted an unrelated DWI stop on Cooeyate. As a result of the assault, the victim suffered injuries including a contusion to her left forearm.
Cooeyate is charged with kidnapping by inveiglement. This means Cooeyatelured the woman into his car by false representations or promises, or other deceitful means. He will remain in La Pasada Halfway House pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Cooeyate faces up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Fish and Wildlife and the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Two Grey Hills Man Sentenced for Assault with a FirearmRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Two Grey Hills man was sentenced to eight and a half year in prison for brandishing and discharging a firearm while threatening multiple individuals.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on February 28, 2025, James Smiley Jr., 56, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, unlawfully entered a residence within the boundaries of the Navajo Nation and pointed a firearm at three individuals without provocation. During the incident, Smiley threatened to kill the victims and discharged the firearm into the ceiling.
Smiley pleaded guilty to one count each of assault with a dangerous weapon and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Upon his release from prison, Smiley will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Zuni Man Pleads Guilty After Shooting into an Occupied VehicleRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty after firing a shotgun into an occupied vehicle and seriously injuring a passenger.
According to court documents, March 20, 2025, Shane Austin Loretto, 32, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, fired a shotgun at the car John Doe was a passenger in, with intent to do bodily harm. John Doe was hit in the face and neck with multiple pellets and required medical treatment.
Law enforcement tied Loretto to the shooting through witness statements and subsequently located the shotgun and ammunition in a safe inside a shed adjacent to Loretto’s residence. During a subsequent interview, Loretto claimed he had heard about the shooting but did not know where the gunshot came from.
Loretto pleaded guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence and faces not less than five years and up to life in prison at sentencing.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
View the Plea Agreement (Loretto).pdfVanderwagen Man Charged with AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Vanderwagen man has been charged in connection with an alleged assault that reportedly left the victim with serious injuries.
According to court documents, on March 10, 2026, Larry Wilbur Begay, 66, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly struck the victim multiple times with a metal workout bar inside a residence in Vanderwagen, New Mexico. The victim then fled to a nearby residence and was transported to a local hospital for treatment.
As a result of the assault, the victim suffered serious injuries, including fractures to his right femur, left fibula, right wrist, and maxillary bone, as well as a deep laceration to the left side of his head that required staples.
Begay is charged with assault with a dangerous weapon and assault resulting in serious bodily injury and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Begay faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Weekly Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the two-week period ending March 27, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 98 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 10 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 6 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 19 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for include theft, aggravated DUI, aggravated assault, use of false immigration documents, aggravated vehicular assault, child sexual assault, domestic violence, alien smuggling, narcotics trafficking and prior immigration offenses.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
Las Cruces Man Charged with Federal Drug Trafficking and Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man is facing federal charges after allegedly selling cocaine and a machinegun conversion device to undercover agents.
According to court documents, on August 19, 2025, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of a machinegun conversion device from Victor Andrew Pardo Jr., 26, in Las Cruces, New Mexico, for $300. The device was later analyzed by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives and determined to meet the legal definition of a machinegun. A records check confirmed that Pardo did not have any firearms registered to him under the National Firearms Act.
On January 27, 2026, investigators conducted a controlled purchase of approximately 249.6 grams of cocaine from Pardo in El Paso, Texas. Surveillance agents observed Pardo travel from his residence in Las Cruces to the meeting location, where he sold the cocaine to an undercover agent in exchange for $5,000. Laboratory testing later confirmed the substance was cocaine.
On February 19, 2026, investigators conducted a second controlled purchase of approximately 251.6 grams of cocaine from Pardo at his residence in Las Cruces. During the transaction, Pardo weighed the substance in front of the informant before exchanging it for $5,000. Laboratory analysis again confirmed the substance was cocaine.
Pardo is charged with possession with intent to distribute cocaine, conspiracy to distribute cocaine, and unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Pardo faces up to 20 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Omar Arellano, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration, and Sarah Mauricio, Acting Special Agent in Charge of the Phoenix Field Division of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives made the announcement today.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Department of Army’s Criminal Investigations Division, the New Mexico State Police, the Texas Department of Public Safety and the El Paso County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Aragon Martinez is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal Complaint (Pardo).pdfA criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Border Patrol Agent Charged with Civil Rights Violation and Evidence TamperingRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A federal grand jury has indicted a U.S. Border Patrol agent for allegedly assaulting a handcuffed detainee and later concealing evidence to obstruct an investigation.
According to court records, on May 22, 2023, Eduardo Prat, 40, allegedly strangled John Doe while performing his official duties as a Border Patrol agent in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. John Doe was handcuffed at the time of the alleged assault. Subsequently, between May 22 and June 12, 2023, Prat allegedly concealed and covered up a body camera recording of the assault.
Prat is charged in federal court with deprivation of rights under color of law and destruction, alteration, or falsification of records in a federal investigation. He is on conditions of release pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Prat faces up to 20 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Professional Responsibility investigated this case with assistance from the Department of Homeland Security, Office of Inspector General, the Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI Albuquerque Field Office, and the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector. The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
View the Indictment (Prat).pdfAn indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Albuquerque Man Sentenced for Drug Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Albuquerque man was sentenced to 220 months in prison for his role in a drug trafficking organization that distributed large quantities of narcotics in Albuquerque.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, beginning in August 2024, agents with the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Albuquerque Police Department Narcotics Unit investigated Quontez Kuvinka, 26, and his fentanyl trafficking organization. The investigation identified Kuvinka as a source of supply who provided fentanyl and methamphetamine to a courier who, on multiple occasions in September 2024, sold the drugs to an undercover law enforcement officer. Kuvinka also personally sold fentanyl and cocaine to an undercover law enforcement officer during controlled purchases.
On October 8, 2024, agents conducting surveillance observed Kuvinka leave his residence and drive to a pre-arranged drug transaction location, where he was expected to supply narcotics for distribution. Law enforcement approached Kuvinka while he was seated in his vehicle, and he attempted to flee on foot before being taken into custody.
A subsequent search of Kuvinka’s vehicle revealed approximately 442.6 grams of fentanyl (equivalent to roughly 4,400 pills), approximately 267.5 grams of methamphetamine, and approximately 7 grams of cocaine, along with drug trafficking paraphernalia. Officers also recovered eight firearms and ammunition from the vehicle, including multiple weapons equipped with machinegun conversion devices capable of converting semi-automatic firearms into fully automatic weapons.
As a previously convicted felon, Kuvinka is prohibited from possessing a firearm or ammunition.
Kuvinka pleaded guilty to conspiracy, distribution of cocaine, two counts of distribution of fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute cocaine, possession of a firearm in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime and being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. Upon his release from prison, he will be subject to five years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison, Special Agent in Charge Omar Arellano of the Drug Enforcement Administration and Chief of Police Cecily Barker of the Albuquerque Police Department made the announcement today. The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico prosecuted the case.
The investigation was conducted by the Drug Enforcement Administration and the Albuquerque Police Department.
Newcomb Man Charged with Child AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Newcomb man is facing federal child abuse charges after a young child in his care was found with extensive bruising and injuries consistent with repeated physical abuse.
According to court documents, on September 15, 2025, officers with the Navajo Police Department responded to a report from school personnel after a young child was found to have extensive bruising and injuries consistent with abuse. Medical personnel documented numerous bruises and welts across the child’s body in various stages of healing, including injuries with linear patterns consistent with being struck by an object.
At the time the child was residing in the household of Dominic Thomas Jabalera, 40, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, and was under his care at the time the injuries were discovered. Investigators spoke to Jabalera, who provided inconsistent explanations for the child’s injuries, initially claiming no knowledge of any harm and later attributing the injuries to accidents and other children in the household.
As the investigation progressed, forensic interviews and prior social services records revealed multiple earlier reports of suspected abuse involving the same household, including prior observations of unexplained bruising and disclosures of fear and physical harm.
Jabalera is charged with child abuse and will remain in third party custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Jabalera faces up to six years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jack Burkhead is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Zuni Man Sentenced to 12 Years in Federal Prison for Firing Shotgun at Occupied VehicleRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was sentenced to 12 years in prison for federal firearms offenses after he fired a shotgun at an occupied vehicle parked outside of a home on the Zuni Pueblo.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on the evening of February 2, 2025, Cody Laweka, 35, an enrolled member of the Pueblo of Zuni, drove with another person to a home on the Pueblo of Zuni. The person with whom Laweka drove had a shotgun in his truck bed. On the way to this residence, Laweka asked to use that shotgun. When Laweka arrived at the residence, he exited the truck with the shotgun and shot at least twice at a car occupied by John Doe. After this shooting, Laweka got back into the truck with the other person and left the scene. No one was hit by Laweka’s gunshots.
The following day, the FBI went to apprehend Laweka at another home in Zuni. Laweka fled when he spotted officers but was eventually apprehended. During a subsequent interview, Laweka admitted firing the shotgun at the car, and tossing the shotgun along the highway. Police searched for the shotgun but never found it.
At the time Laweka committed these crimes crime, he was on supervised release for committing a prior federal crime.
Laweka pled guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon and using a firearm during a crime of violence and discharging that firearm. The Court recommended Defendant complete the Residential Drug Abuse Program (RDAP), the Bureau of Prisons’ most intensive treatment program. Upon his release from prison, Laweka will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Pueblo of Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones and Nicholas Marshall are prosecuting this case.
Texas Man Sentenced for COVID-19 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Texas man was sentenced to two years in prison and ordered to pay $154,744 in restitution for defrauding the government by obtaining COVID-19 pandemic-related unemployment benefits through false claims.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, between July 2020 and February 2021, Marc Long, while residing in Texas, carried out a scheme to fraudulently obtain federally funded unemployment insurance benefits through the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions. Long submitted online unemployment claims and weekly certifications using the names and personal identifying information of other individuals, even though neither he nor those individuals were eligible for the benefits.
Court records show Long used the stolen identities of multiple victims to obtain or attempt to obtain COVID-19-related unemployment benefits. His fraudulent applications caused benefits to be deposited into bank accounts accessible by him and caused debit cards loaded with benefits to be mailed to addresses in Texas associated with Long. The fraud resulted in the theft of over $150,000 of federal unemployment relief funds intended for New Mexico residents impacted by COVID-19.
Long pleaded guilty to two counts each of wire fraud, mail fraud and theft of government property. Upon his release from prison, Long will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Special Agent in Charge Justin A. Garris of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office made the announcement today.
The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office and Department of Homeland Security’s Office of Inspector General investigated this case with assistance from the New Mexico Department of Workforce Solutions.
The U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case.
Syrian National Extradited to the United StatesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Syrian national was extradited from Costa Rica to face federal human smuggling charges in New Mexico.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment on August 26, 2025, charging Jalal Makland Adeeb, 39, with conspiracy to bring in illegal aliens for financial gain. On March 4, 2026, federal authorities assumed custody of Adeeb from Costa Rican authorities. On March 6, 2026, Adeeb made his initial appearance in New Mexico and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Adeeb faces a minimum of three years and up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement on behalf of the Homeland Security Task Force.
The Las Cruces Branch Office of the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico is prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs provided significant assistance in securing the defendant’s arrest and March 4 extradition from Costa Rica. The investigation and charges are supported and prosecuted by JTFA, the Department’s lead effort in combating high-impact human smuggling and trafficking committed by cartels and Transnational Criminal Organizations (TCOs). A highly successful partnership between the Department of Justice and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), JTFA investigates and prosecutes human smuggling and trafficking and related immigration crimes that impact public safety and border security. JTFA’s mission is to target the leaders and organizers of Cartels and TCOs involved in human smuggling and trafficking throughout the Americas. The Attorney General has elevated and expanded JTFA to target the most prolific and dangerous human smuggling and trafficking groups operating not only in Mexico and the Northern Triangle countries of Guatemala, El Salvador, and Honduras, but also in Canada, the Caribbean, and the maritime border, and elsewhere. Led by the Criminal Division’s Human Rights and Special Prosecutions Section and supported by the Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section, the Office of International Affairs, and the Office of Enforcement Operations, among others, JTFA has dedicated Assistant United States Attorney-detailees from the Southern District of California; District of Arizona; District of New Mexico; Western and Southern Districts of Texas; Southern District of Florida; Northern District of New York; and District of Vermont. JTFA also partners with other USAOs throughout the country and supports high-priority cases in any district. All JTFA cases rely on substantial law enforcement resources from DHS, including ICE/HSI and CBP/BP and OFO, as well as FBI and other law enforcement agencies.
To date, JTFA’s work has resulted in more than 450 domestic and international arrests of leaders, organizers, and significant facilitators of alien smuggling and/or trafficking; more than 395 U.S. convictions; more than 340 significant jail sentences imposed, and forfeitures of substantial assets.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative was established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region II CORE 7 is comprised of agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations (OFO), U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and Air and Marine (AMO), Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), United States Department of the Interior – Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Joint Task Force North (JTF-N), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), United States Marshal Service (USMS), Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DSS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS), El Paso Police Department (EPPD), New Mexico State Police (NMSP), West Texas / New Mexico High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), Albuquerque Police Department, New Mexico Sixth Judicial District, Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency, and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Districts of Western Texas and New Mexico.
View the Indictment (Adeeb).pdfAn indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Zuni Man Charged with Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man was indicted on federal sexual abuse charges related to an alleged assault.
According to court records, on June 11, 2024, Karl Devain Escobar, 33, an enrolled member of the Zuni Pueblo, engaged in a sex act with Jane Doe using force and without her consent.
Escobar is charged with sexual abuse and aggravated sexual abuse. He will remain in third party custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Escobar faces up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.
An indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Torreon Man Pleads Guilty to Federal Firearms OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Torreon man pleaded guilty to unlawfully possessing firearms after reportedly using one of them in a shooting and being involved in a series of shooting incidents on the Navajo Nation between July 2024 and September 2025.
According to court documents, between July 2024 and September 2025, Cisco Whitehorse, 43, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, was believed to have possessed and used firearms during a series of four shooting incidents on the Navajo Nation.
In July 2024, Whitehorse fired from or around his vehicle at John Doe 1 after the victim drove past, striking him three times. In August 2024, he was accused of firing from his residence at John Doe 2 as the victim drove by. In August 2025, Whitehorse again opened fire from his residence at a vehicle driven by John Doe 1. In September 2025, he fired multiple rounds from his vehicle near a local government building before fleeing at a high rate of speed.
On October 24, 2025, the FBI executed a search warrant at Whitehorse’s residence and recovered three firearms and ammunition. As a previously convicted felon, Whitehorse was prohibited from possessing firearms or ammunition, and he is now pleading guilty to that offense.
Whitehorse pleaded guilty to being felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At sentencing he faces up to 15 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and the Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Amy Mondragon is prosecuting the case.
Previously Convicted Felon Pleads Guilty to Firearms OffenseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Silver City man has pleaded guilty in federal court to illegally possessing firearms and ammunition after previously being convicted of a felony.
According to court documents, on December 10, 2024, officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Max Flores, 54, a previously convicted felon with an active arrest warrant who was on federal probation after serving 168 months in federal prison and located a firearm in the vehicle. On April 26, 2025, following an unrelated incident, officers executed a search warrant at Flores’ residence and recovered several firearms and ammunition.
Flores pleaded guilty to being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition. At sentencing he faces up to 15 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Silver City Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Randy M. Castellano prosecuted the case.
Las Cruces Man Pleads Guilty to Drug Trafficking and Felon in Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man pleaded guilty to federal drug and firearm offenses after agents recovered methamphetamine, fentanyl, and firearms during a search of his residence.
According to court documents, on April 3, 2024, FBI and Metro Narcotics Task Force agents executed a search warrant at the residence of Enrique Alan Ramirez, 46, in Las Cruces, New Mexico. During the search, agents recovered four firearms and over 68 grams of methamphetamine and over 55 grams of fentanyl. Ramirez, who has a prior felony conviction for possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Ramirez pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and being a felon in possession of a firearm. At sentencing he faces no less than 15 years and up to life years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Las Cruces/ Doña Ana County Meto Narcotics. Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Aragon Martinez is prosecuting the case.
Las Cruces Felon Charged Federally with Fentanyl Trafficking and Firearm OffensesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man with prior felony convictions has been charged in federal court with fentanyl trafficking and multiple firearm offenses after allegedly threatening victims with a handgun and later possessing more than 40 grams of fentanyl while armed.
According to court records, on July 5, 2025, Kenneth Manuel Aguirre, 43, allegedly pointed a handgun at three victims during an incident outside his residence in Las Cruces, New Mexico. Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office deputies took Aguirre into custody and recovered a handgun and suspected fentanyl pills from his vehicle, as well as a rifle, ammunition, and other firearm accessories from his residence.
Subsequently, on August 13, Aguirre allegedly possessed with intent to distribute more than 40 grams of fentanyl and carried a firearm in furtherance of that drug trafficking crime.
Aguirre is a previously convicted felon and is prohibited from possessing firearms.
Aguirre is charged federally with three counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition and one count each of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl and using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, Aguirre faces a minimum of 10 years and up to 40 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Doña Ana County Sheriff’s Office, the Las Cruces/Dona Ana Metro Narcotics and the Las Cruces Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Devon Aragon Martinez is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal Complaint (Aguirre).pdf View the Indictment (Aguirre).pdfAn indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Farmington Woman Pleads Guilty to Methamphetamine Trafficking and Firearm ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Farmington woman pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and using, carrying, and possessing a firearm in connection with a drug trafficking crime.
According to court documents, investigators with the FBI and the Region II Task Force conducted a joint investigation that included multiple controlled drug purchases from and surveillance of Tasheena Hoskie, 44, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. On July 12, 2024, investigators attempted to conduct a traffic stop on Hoskie’s vehicle as it traveled from Arizona to New Mexico. Hoskie initially stopped but then fled at high speed, throwing packages from the vehicle. After her vehicle was disabled, Hoskie was taken into custody. Inside the vehicle, investigators recovered approximately 100 grams of methamphetamine, roughly 4,130 fentanyl pills, and two firearms. Investigators also recovered approximately 548 grams (1.2 pounds) of methamphetamine that had been thrown from the vehicle.
Hoskie pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and using, carrying and possessing a firearm during and in relation to and in furtherance of a drug trafficking crime. At sentencing Hoskie faces not less than ten years and up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated the case with assistance from the Region II Narcotics Task Force, the Bureau of Indian Affairs, the San Juan County Sheriff’s Office, and the Farmington Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jack E. Burkhead is prosecuting the case.
El Paso Man Charged After Stash House Discovery Linked to Smuggling OperationRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An El Paso man has been charged in connection with an alleged alien smuggling operation after federal agents uncovered a stash house containing sixteen undocumented individuals following a failed smuggling attempt.
According to court records, on February 13, 2026, Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and U.S. Border Patrol agents responded to a failed alien smuggling attempt involving a tractor trailer carrying nineteen undocumented individuals at the Las Cruces Border Patrol Checkpoint on Interstate 25. Through interviews and investigative findings, agents identified a suspected stash house at a residence in El Paso, Texas.
On February 26, 2026, agents executed the search warrant at the residence and encountered approximately sixteen undocumented individuals inside. All stated they were not citizens of the United States and did not possess lawful immigration documents. The individuals were transported to the El Paso Border Patrol Station for processing.
During subsequent interviews, two material witnesses identified Crescencio Pacheco Olvera, 37, as the caretaker of the stash house and as a transport driver involved in the smuggling operation. One witness stated that after illegally entering the United States through a hole cut in the international border fence near Santa Teresa, New Mexico, they were transported to the El Paso residence by Pacheco Olvera.
Pacheco Olvera is charged with conspiracy to harbor, transport, and bring in undocumented individuals and will remain in custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Pacheco Olvera faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Taekuk Cho of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso made the announcement today.
HSI Las Cruces investigated this case with assistance from the U.S. Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorney Tanisha V. Henson is prosecuting the case.
View the Criminal Complaint (Pacheco Olvera).pdfA criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Shiprock Woman Sentenced for AssaultRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Shiprock woman was sentenced to two years in prison for assaulting and stabbing another woman.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on November 21, 2024, Angelia Garcia, 35, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, repeatedly stabbed Jane Doe in an unprovoked attack. As a result of the attack, the victim sustained serious wounds, including a wound to the back of her neck. During a subsequent interview with agents, Garcia admitted to stabbing the victim.
Garcia subsequently pled guilty to assault with a dangerous weapon. Upon her release from prison, Garcia will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Department of Investigation and Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Michael Pahl is prosecuting the case.
To’hajiilee Man Accused of Shooting Two Navajo Nation Police Officers Faces Federal ChargesRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A To’hajiilee man faces federal charges in connection with the shooting of two Navajo Nation Police Department officers.
According to court records, on March 6, 2026, Russell Secatero, 29, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, allegedly shot and injured two Navajo Nation Police Department officers during a law enforcement response to reports of gunfire near a residence in To’hajiilee, New Mexico.
Authorities allege Secatero hid inside a closet attached to the residence and fired at officers with a rifle, striking Officer John Doe in the arm and back and injuring Officer Jane Doe when a round hit her firearm and shrapnel struck her arm.
According to the criminal complaint, Officer John Doe returned fire, wounding Secatero, who was later transported along with both officers to a hospital.
Investigators reported recovering two AR-style rifles and shell casings from the closet where Secatero was found.
Secatero is charged federally with two counts each of assault with a dangerous weapon and discharging a firearm in relation to a crime of violence. He will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted of the current charges, Secatero faces 20 years in prison.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
An indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Dulce Man Pleads Guilty to Second Degree MurderRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Dulce man pleaded guilty in federal court to shooting and killing another man.
According to court documents, in the early morning hours of June 5, 2024, Damian Amarillo, 21, a member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, shot and killed John Doe in a neighborhood in Dulce, New Mexico, within the exterior boundaries of the Jicarilla Apache Nation. The shooting followed an earlier confrontation at Amarillo’s residence. After John Doe left the residence, Amarillo chased him through the neighborhood, assaulted him, and then shot him. John Doe died from his injuries at the scene. Witnesses observed multiple individuals fleeing after the gunshots.
Amarillo pleaded guilty to second degree murder and remains in custody pending sentencing. He faces up to life in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office and the Jicarilla Apache Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Caitlin L. Dillon is prosecuting the case.
Albuquerque Man Pleads Guilty in Child Sex Trafficking CaseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A California man with ties to Albuquerque pleaded guilty in federal court to sex trafficking two minors and transporting them to New Mexico for commercial sex acts, and a second defendant pleaded guilty to concealing the offense.
According to court documents, in December 2024, Roderick Norseweather Jr., 26, recruited two minors in California and transported, provided for, and maintained them for the purpose of engaging in commercial sex acts. Norseweather purchased cell phones for the minors, required them to use the Life360 app—an application designed to monitor family members—so he could monitor their locations, created a coded emoji system to track their commercial sex activity, rented hotel and motel rooms, and paid for food, clothing, and other services to keep them engaged in commercial sex for his benefit.
On December 29, 2024, Norseweather sent the two minors and Tajahne Johnson, 22, by Amtrak from California to New Mexico using tickets he purchased so the minors could engage in commercial sex in another state. Johnson was aware of the plan and engaged in commercial sex alongside the minors in Albuquerque.
From December 30, 2024, through January 3, 2025, Norseweather directed the minors to engage in commercial sex through text messages and Instagram, posted commercial sex advertisements online using their photos, and arranged meetings with buyers. He later traveled to Albuquerque to collect over $3000 in proceeds from their commercial sex acts.
Court documents show that, after law enforcement made contact on January 3, 2025, Johnson texted Jane Doe 2 not to come to the area and lied to law enforcement about the minors’ relationship to Norseweather in order to conceal his involvement.
Johnson pleaded guilty to misprision of a felony and remains in custody pending sentencing. She faces an agreed upon sentence of three years in prison.
Norseweather pleaded guilty to two counts of sex trafficking of children and two counts of transportation with intent to engage in criminal sexual activity. He will remain in custody pending sentencing and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years in prison and a maximum sentence of life.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office and Albuquerque Police Department investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Timothy Trembley and Patrick E. Cordova are prosecuting the case.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Weekly Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the one-week period ending March 13, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 75 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 5 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 31 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 73 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for aggravated assault, narcotics trafficking, theft, aggravated DUI, and prior immigration offenses.
In a significant case, during a vehicle stop, a Homeland Security Investigations task force officer located 20 kilograms of methamphetamine, 100 grams of fentanyl, and a loaded Glock .45 caliber pistol in a vehicle driven by Jesus Meza Lopez, a Mexican citizen. Lopez was charged with illegal reentry, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime, and being an illegal alien in possession of a firearm. He will remain in custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for March 16, 2026.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
Mescalero Man Pleads Guilty to Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man pleaded guilty to engaging in sexual acts with a minor.
According to court documents, between December 2019, and February 2021, Deverne Torres, Jr., 45, an enrolled member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, performed multiple sex acts with Jane Doe, a minor who had not attained the age of 16.
Torres pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor. At sentencing he faces up to 15 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorneys and Tanisha V. Henson and Kirk Williams are prosecuting the case.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs is seeking other potential victims of Torres. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Bureau of Indian Affairs at (575) 464-4479.
Illegal Alien Sentenced to 10 Years for Seventh Illegal Reentry ConvictionRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mexican national was sentenced to 10 years in prison following her seventh conviction for re-entry of a removed alien.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on October 11, 2025, U.S. Border Patrol agents encountered Elena Ernestina Pedroza, 60, a Mexican national, in Doña Ana County, New Mexico. Records revealed that Pedroza had previously been convicted of re-entry of a removed alien and deported to Mexico six times, most recently in August 2025. Pedroza was previously sentenced to a total of 88 months (7 years, 3 months) for all her prior reentry convictions combined. The United States requested a longer sentence for deterrence.
Pedroza subsequently pled guilty to re-entry of a removed alien and was sentenced to 120 months in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Chief Patrol Agent Jesse D. Muñoz of the U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector made the announcement today.
The U.S. Border Patrol El Paso Sector investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Silvia Delgado prosecuted the case.
Dulce Man Convicted of Aggravated Sexual AbuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – After a three-day trial, a federal jury convicted Herbert Ben, Jr. of two counts of aggravated sexual abuse.
At trial, the United States presented witness testimony showing that Ben, Jr., 57, an enrolled member of the Jicarilla Apache Nation, molested two young girls, both under 12, between 2016 and 2022. The United States also presented testimony that Ben, Jr. molested another high-school-age female in approximately 2019 as she babysat Ben, Jr.’s stepdaughters. Finally, the United States presented evidence that from roughly 2010 to 2012, Ben, Jr. molested another young female relative while she was in elementary and middle school.
For these actions, jurors found Ben, Jr. guilty of two counts of aggravated sexual abuse, a crime that carries a mandatory minimum sentence of 30 years of imprisonment. In addition to this prison sentence, Ben, Jr. will be subject to mandatory victim restitution for the full amount of a victim’s losses, which include medical services relating to physical, psychiatric, or psychological care. After serving his prison sentence, Ben, Jr. will also be required to register as a sex offender and will be subject to a term of supervised release of between five years and life.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Jicarilla Apache Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Zachary C. Jones and Amy Mondragon are prosecuting these cases.
Crownpoint Man Pleads Guilty to Strangulation and Assaulting OfficerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Crownpoint man pleaded guilty in federal court to strangling a woman and attacking a tribal police officer with a taser.
According to court documents, on March 18, 2025, Jason K. Thompson, 40, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, attempted to strangle Jane Doe. Law enforcement responded to the domestic violence call and attempted to take Thompson into custody. During a struggle with a Navajo Nation Police Department officer, Thompson grabbed the officer’s taser and deployed it against him with the intent to injure him. Thompson was then handcuffed and placed in the back of an NPD patrol unit. He later kicked out a window of the unit and escaped, but NPD officers recaptured him that night.
Thompson pleaded guilty to assault by strangulation and assault with a deadly weapon. At sentencing he faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Mark A. Probasco is prosecuting the case.
Two Colorado Women Charged in Multi State Drug Trafficking and Money Laundering ConspiracyRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Two Colorado women and an associate are charged in a drug‑trafficking and money‑laundering conspiracy that allegedly funneled methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico through New Mexico into other locations in the United States.
According to court records, between November 2023 and July 2025, Ebajelina Silva, 41, of Arvada, Colorado, and Tania Maldonado, 42, of Denver, Colorado, allegedly participated in a drug-trafficking and money-laundering conspiracy that moved methamphetamine and cocaine from Mexico through New Mexico to other locations in the United States. Court records allege Silva coordinated narcotics pickups and deliveries with Reymondo Mandonado, 43, of Thornton, Colorado, while Maldonado allegedly helped transmit drug proceeds to individuals in Mexico through money service businesses using structured wire transfers. The investigation tied the conspiracy to repeated border crossings, communications and location data, financial records, and a July 7, 2025, traffic stop in Otero County, New Mexico, during which law enforcement seized 146.7 net kilograms of pure methamphetamine and 4.875 net kilograms of cocaine from a concealed compartment in an enclosed trailer driven by Mandonado.
Silva and Maldonado are each charged with one count of conspiracy and conspiracy to launder money. They will remain in custody pending trial, which has not been scheduled. If convicted, they both face a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.
Mandonado pleaded guilty to possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and possession with intent to distribute cocaine. He will remain in custody pending sentencing, which has not been scheduled. At sentencing, Mandonado faces a minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today on behalf of the Homeland Security Task Force
Assistant U.S. Attorney Renee Camacho is prosecuting the cases.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region II CORE 7 is comprised of agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations (OFO), U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and Air and Marine (AMO), Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), United States Department of the Interior – Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Joint Task Force North (JTF-N), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), United States Marshal Service (USMS), Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DSS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS), El Paso Police Department (EPPD), New Mexico State Police (NMSP), West Texas / New Mexico High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), Albuquerque Police Department, New Mexico Sixth Judicial District, Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency, and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Districts of Western Texas and New Mexico.
View the Criminal Complaint (Mandonado).pdf View the Criminal Complaint (Silva and Maldonado).pdf View the Indictment (Silva and Maldonado).pdfAn indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Las Cruces Man Sentenced for Possessing Stolen Handgun While Under Felony IndictmentRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Las Cruces man pleaded guilty after being caught carrying a loaded, stolen handgun outside a Las Cruces gas station while under indictment and on community supervision for a felony robbery in Texas.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on January 14, 2025, Stephen Gregory Smith, 24, was found in possession of a loaded handgun and ammunition outside a gas station in Las Cruces, New Mexico after officers responded to reports that he was harassing customers. During the encounter, Smith admitted he had the concealed firearm in his pocket. Investigators later determined the firearm had been reported stolen earlier that day from a nearby residence. At the time, Smith was under indictment and on community supervision in Texas for a felony robbery charge, which prohibited him from possessing firearms.
Smith pleaded guilty to illegal receipt of a firearm by a person under indictment. Upon his release from prison, Smith will be subject to two years of supervised release.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Taekuk Cho of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso made the announcement today.
Homeland Security Investigations El Paso investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, the Dona Ana County Sheriff’s Office and New Mexico State University Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Maria Armijo is prosecuting the case.
Arizona Woman Pleads Guilty to Federal Assault Charges in Drunk Driving CrashRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Arizona woman pleaded guilty to a 2023 drunk driving crash that seriously injured two people.
According to court documents, on December 30, 2023, Shaina Shorty, 36, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation, drove while intoxicated and crashed into a vehicle occupied by Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2. As a result of the crash, both Jane Doe 1 and Jane Doe 2 sustained serious bodily injuries.
Shorty pleaded guilty to two counts of assault resulting in serious bodily injury. At sentencing she faces up to 10 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Farmington Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Navajo Nation Police Department and Navajo Department of Criminal Investigations. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Zuni Man Pleads Guilty to ManslaughterRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man pleaded guilty to the shooting death of an individual in the heat of passion.
According to court documents, on December 1, 2024, Glendon Laate, 49, a member of the Zuni Pueblo, shot and killed John Doe with a homemade shotgun in the heat of passion.
Laate pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. At sentencing Laate faces up to 15 years in prison.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the FBI’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Meg Tomlinson and Michael Pahl are prosecuting the case.
Hobbs-based Drug Trafficking Network Supplied by Mexican Illegal Alien DismantledRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A previously deported Mexican national, together with his Hobbs‑based distributor and her associates, has been charged in federal court with running a methamphetamine and fentanyl trafficking network that brought large quantities of methamphetamine and fentanyl and armed drug dealers into the Hobbs community.
According to court documents, Arturo Chihuahua‑Martinez, 61, a Mexican national previously deported from the United States, is alleged to have served as a source of supply bringing multi‑pound quantities of methamphetamine from California into Lea County, New Mexico, for redistribution in and around Hobbs. On or about February 17, 2025, Chihuahua‑Martinez was allegedly returning from Los Angeles when a Lea County Sheriff’s deputy stopped the truck on New Mexico Highway 380, near Tatum, and, following a positive canine alert, discovered a cooler and backpack containing 20 vacuum‑sealed packages with nearly 20 pounds of pure methamphetamine.
In a separate indictment, Natasha Ruiz, 33, is alleged to be a Hobbs‑based distributor who obtained methamphetamine and fentanyl from Chihuahua‑Martinez and coordinated retail‑level distribution through a network of local associates. On or about March 17, 2025, Ruiz allegedly met Chihuahua‑Martinez at a Hobbs hotel, where she picked up 421 grams of pure methamphetamine and 34.3 grams of fentanyl, which officers later recovered from a black backpack during a traffic stop.
The indictment further alleges that Ruiz used trusted associates to expand the organization’s reach by managing street‑level sales and insulating herself from direct contact with customers. On or about September 3, 2025, Ruiz allegedly agreed to sell fentanyl to an undercover agent and directed Erik L. Almaguer, 32, to complete the transaction. Almaguer then allegedly delivered 5.2 grams of fentanyl to the undercover agent for $500.
Ruiz also allegedly used Lorenzo Luna‑Espinoza, 30, Eli G. Rodriguez, 54, and Taylor Lydick, 31, to move methamphetamine into neighboring communities. On or about October 8, 2025, Ruiz allegedly supplied methamphetamine to Eli Rodriguez at a cabin in Seminole, Texas. When Eli Rodriguez left the cabin, officers stopped his vehicle and seized 44.56 grams of pure methamphetamine.
On the following day, October 9, 2025, Ruiz allegedly coordinated with Lydick to pick up methamphetamine from her the same cabin, and Lydick was later stopped while transporting 153.2 grams of pure methamphetamine.
Luna‑Espinoza, a Mexican national who had previously been removed from the United States, is alleged to have acted as both a methamphetamine and fentanyl supplier and a broker of firearms for the organization. On or about November 13, 2025, Luna‑Espinoza allegedly stored an AR‑15 rifle at another person’s residence, possessed 8.29 grams of pure methamphetamine and 22.89 grams of fentanyl in a vehicle, and discussed selling firearms, narcotics, and a ballistic vest. During one of the calls, Luna-Espinoza stated that he was not working and that he was instead concentrating on his narcotics trafficking.
The indictment charges Ruiz with conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and fentanyl, distribution of fentanyl, and use of a communication facility to further a drug trafficking crime. If convicted, she faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison. Almaguer is charged with conspiracy and distribution of fentanyl and faces up to 20 years in prison. Eli Rodriguez is charged with conspiracy, possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and use of a communication facility, and faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison. Lydick is charged with conspiracy and possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine and faces a mandatory minimum of 10 years and up to life in prison.
Luna‑Espinoza is charged with conspiracy, distribution of methamphetamine and fentanyl, possession with intent to distribute, multiple communication‑facility counts, illegal reentry after removal, and being an alien in possession of a firearm and ammunition. If convicted, he faces a mandatory minimum of five years and up to 40 years in prison.
In separate but related cases, two associates of Ruiz, Jamus Clydrell White, 38, and Gabriel Tercero, 48, are alleged to have possessed firearms and ammunition despite prior felony convictions. White is charged with being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition based on alleged conduct on or about July 10, 2024, while Tercero is charged with being a felon in possession of two handguns and ammunition on or about March 17, 2025. If convicted of the current charges, both men face up to 15 years in prison.
In another related case, Pedro Rene Palacios allegedly arranged to sell methamphetamine to a customer through Luna-Espinoza at a residence in Hobbs. On March 4, 2026, agents executed a search warrant at that residence and recovered approximately 3.5 grams of methamphetamine from Palacios’s bedroom and a firearm from his person. Palacios is charged with distribution of methamphetamine. If convicted of the current charges, Palacios faces no less than 10 years and up to life in prison.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today on behalf of the Homeland Security Task Force.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kirk Williams and Renee Camacho are prosecuting these cases.
This prosecution is part of the Homeland Security Task Force (HSTF) initiative established by Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. The HSTF is a whole-of-government partnership dedicated to eliminating criminal cartels, foreign gangs, transnational criminal organizations, and human smuggling and trafficking rings operating in the United States and abroad. Through historic interagency collaboration, the HSTF directs the full might of United States law enforcement towards identifying, investigating, and prosecuting the full spectrum of crimes committed by these organizations, which have long fueled violence and instability within our borders. In performing this work, the HSTF places special emphasis on investigating and prosecuting those engaged in child trafficking or other crimes involving children. The HSTF further utilizes all available tools to prosecute and remove the most violent criminal aliens from the United States. HSTF Region II CORE 7 is comprised of agents and officers from Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), Internal Revenue Service (IRS), Customs and Border Protection – Office of Field Operations (OFO), U.S. Border Patrol (USBP) and Air and Marine (AMO), Office of Professional Responsibility (OPR), United States Department of the Interior – Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Joint Task Force North (JTF-N), United States Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), United States Marshal Service (USMS), Department of State, Bureau of Diplomatic Security (DSS), U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS), El Paso Police Department (EPPD), New Mexico State Police (NMSP), West Texas / New Mexico High Intensity Drug Trafficking Areas (HIDTA), Albuquerque Police Department, New Mexico Sixth Judicial District, Las Cruces/Dona Ana County Metro Narcotics Agency, and the prosecution is being led by the Office of the United States Attorney for the Districts of Western Texas and New Mexico.
An indictment or criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Hagerman Man Sentenced in Federal Firearms and Drug Trafficking Case Adopted from Fifth Judicial District Attorney’s OfficeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A previously convicted felon was sentenced to 100 months in prison following multiple encounters with law enforcement which resulted in the recovery of multiple firearms and large quantities of narcotics.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, between June 2022 and January 2025, Jorge De La Cruz, 30, a previously convicted felon, was repeatedly found in possession of firearms and large quantities of narcotics during multiple encounters with law enforcement in Roswell and elsewhere in New Mexico. During these incidents, officers recovered several firearms, including stolen handguns, along with methamphetamine and fentanyl.
Specifically, on June 28, 2022, Roswell Police officers responded to a report of De La Cruz armed and using drugs. Officers recovered a loaded stolen .38 revolver, methamphetamine, and other narcotics from his vehicle.
During a February 7, 2023, traffic stop, Chaves County Metro Narcotics Task Force (CCMNTF) agents seized methamphetamine, fentanyl, and multiple firearms from De La Cruz.
On April 16, 2024, CCMNTF agents executed a search warrant at a residence where De La Cruz was present. Officers recovered a loaded handgun, fentanyl, methamphetamine, drug paraphernalia, and additional firearms stored in a vehicle at the property.
In a traffic stop on October 2, 2024, Pecos Valley Drug Task Force agents recovered nearly 15 grams of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine, and multiple firearms from a vehicle driven by De La Cruz.
At a highway checkpoint on January 7, 2025, Border Patrol agents located 94 grams of fentanyl, methamphetamine, a stolen firearm, drug paraphernalia, and ammunition in a backpack inside a vehicle with De La Cruz. Phone records later confirmed he had coordinated the distribution of these narcotics.
On October 21, 2025, De La Cruz pled guilty to five counts of being a felon in possession of a firearm and ammunition, three counts of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine, and two counts of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl. Upon his release from prison, he will be subject to five years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Acting Special Agent in Charge Taekuk Cho of Homeland Security Investigations El Paso made the announcement today.
HSI El Paso investigated this case with assistance from the Roswell Police Department U.S. Border Patrol. Assistant U.S. Attorneys Kirk Williams and Renee Camacho prosecuted the case.
U.S. Attorney's Office for the District of New Mexico Weekly Immigration and Border Crimes ReportRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – Today, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico announced its immigration enforcement statistics for this week. These cases are prosecuted in partnership with the El Paso Sector of the U.S. Border Patrol, along with Homeland Security Investigations El Paso, and assistance from other federal, state, and county agencies.
In the one-week period ending March 6, 2026, the United States Attorney’s Office brought the following criminal charges in New Mexico:
- 47 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Reentry After Deportation (8 U.S.C. 1326)
- 5 individuals were charged this week with Alien Smuggling (8 U.S.C. 1324)
- 22 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325)
- 49 individuals were charged this week with Illegal Entry (8 U.S.C. 1325), violation of a military security regulation (50 U.S.C. 797) and Entering Military, Naval, or Coast Guard Property (18 U.S.C. 1382), arising from the newly established National Defense Area in New Mexico.
Many of the defendants charged pursuant to 8 U.S.C. 1326 had prior criminal convictions for second degree murder, aggravated assault, drug trafficking, vehicle theft, immigration documents fraud, possession of a firearm by an alien, and prior immigration offenses.
These cases are part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs), and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime.
These statistics represent prosecutions by the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of New Mexico only. The numbers do not include individuals apprehended by immigration enforcement officials and subjected solely to administrative process.
Under current leadership, public safety and a secure border are the top priorities for the District of New Mexico. Enhanced enforcement both at the border and in the interior of the district have yielded aliens engaged in unlawful activity or with serious criminal history, including human trafficking, sexual assault and violence against children.
The District of New Mexico consists of 33 counties and shares 180 miles of international border with Mexico. Assistant U.S. Attorneys from Albuquerque and Las Cruces work directly with our federal, state and local law enforcement partners to prosecute immigration-related and other federal offenses.
Romanian National to be Sentenced for Participation in Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Romanian national who participated in a large-scale fraud scheme, which used fake business websites to steal more than $1.8 million from consumers across the country, will be sentenced on March 11, 2026, at 10:00 AM in Las Cruces for the crime of conspiracy to commit wire fraud.
In his plea agreement, Claudiu Pesteleu, 44, a Romanian national illegally present in the United States, admitted that from May 2023 through June 2024, he participated in a nationwide fraud scheme that used fake websites impersonating legitimate businesses to trick victims into wiring money for various consumer products, such as cars and equipment. Victims believed they were making legitimate purchases, but the funds were instead directed to the bank accounts of shell companies that were created with fake passports other fraudulent identity documents.
Pesteleu, whose role in this scheme was to help conceal the fraudulently obtained money, obtained fake identity documents and used those to organize sham businesses. He then opened bank accounts for these shell companies using these fake identity documents. These shell companies and aliases included Zammer Equipment LLC (Matthias Zammer), Super Exotic Deals LLC (Samuel Der Saar), Premier E. Liquidators LLC (Fred Laport), Adler Pre Owned LLC (Boris Adler), Bittman Motors LLC (Fritz Bittman), Nikkos Cargo LLC (Nikos Adonis) and Becker Automotive LLC (Karl Becker). Pesteleu also used the alias Thomas Muller. Consumers were directed to wire funds to accounts associated with these entities, believing they were purchasing legitimate goods.
In total, approximately $1.8 million in fraudulently obtained funds was wired by victims to bank accounts that Pesteleu controlled. Pesteleu then conducted numerous financial transactions with the money to conceal the source of the funds and to hinder law enforcement from identifying the scheme and seizing the proceeds.
If you believe you were a victim of Pesteleu, please contact the Homeland Security Investigations tipline at 866-347-2423.
If you would like to attend the sentencing, please contact Victim Specialist Jacquie Gutierrez at (575) 522-2304 before the date of the hearing for more information.
The Homeland Security Investigations Deming investigated this case with assistance from the Gainesville, Florida Police Department. Las Cruces Criminal Chief Richard Williams and Assistant U.S. Attorney Grant Gardner are prosecuting the case.
Ramah man sentenced for federal assault and firearm charges after shooting into vehicleRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Ramah man was sentenced to nine years in prison for shooting into a vehicle occupied by three people after a near-collision.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court documents, on March 18, 2025,John Doe swerved his vehicle to avoid colliding with a blue Jeep driven by Leon Garcia, 42, an enrolled member of the Navajo Nation. After the near-miss, John Doe followed Garcia to a residence on the Ramah Navajo Reservation in Cibola County. When the vehicles stopped, Garcia exited his Jeep armed with a rifle, pointed the firearm at the three occupants and fired multiple shots into the vehicle with intent to do bodily harm. Garcia continued shooting as the victims attempted to turn around and again as they drove away.
Garcia pleaded guilty to three counts of assault with a dangerous weapon and one count of using and carrying a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence. Upon his release from prison, Garcia will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Ramah-Navajo Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
Mescalero man sentenced for sexual abuse of a minorRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Mescalero man was sentenced to 11 years in prison for sexual abuse of a minor.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, on February 15, 2025, John Albert Carrillo, Jr., 36, a member of the Mescalero Apache Tribe, used force to commit a sexual act with a minor victim.
Carrillo pleaded guilty to sexual abuse of a minor. Upon his release from prison, Carrillo will be subject to 10 years of supervised release and must register as a sex offender.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Las Cruces Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant U.S. Attorney Silvia Delgado is prosecuting the case.
Española man sentenced for 2023 beating and strangulation of his dating partnerRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – An Española man was sentenced to 46 months in prison for attacking and severely beating his dating partner in 2023, causing serious bodily injuries over her entire body.
There is no parole in the federal system.
According to court records, in the early morning hours of September 21, 2023, Isiah Gutierrez-Arquero, 30, an enrolled member of the Santa Clara Pueblo, punched and kicked Jane Doe, threw her against a wall (causing a hole in the wall), sat on her chest, and strangled her with both hands during a beating that lasted several hours. As a result of the assault, Jane Doe sustained serious bodily injuries to her head, torso, and extremities.
Gutierrez-Arquero pleaded guilty to assault by strangulation and assault resulting in serious bodily injury. The Court recommended Defendant complete the Residential Drug Abuse Program, the Bureau of Prisons’ most intensive treatment program. Upon his release from prison, Gutierrez-Arquero will be subject to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison made the announcement today.
The Bureau of Indian Affairs investigated this case. Assistant U.S. Attorney Zachary C. Jones is prosecuting the case.
Zuni man charged with sexual abuseRead the Press Release
ALBUQUERQUE – A Zuni man is facing federal charges for allegedly sexually abusing two minors.
According to court records, on or about February 9, 2026, the Zuni Tribal Police Department was notified of allegations that Vernon Rydell Sanchez, 38, an enrolled member of the Zuni tribe, sexually abused two minors. The minors were subsequently forensically interviewed and both disclosed sexual contact by Sanchez on multiple occasions. Law enforcement later interviewed Sanchez, who denied the allegations
Sanchez is charged with two counts of abusive sexual contact and will remain in third party custody pending trial, which has not yet been scheduled. If convicted of the current charge, Sanchez faces up to three years in prison.
Acting U.S. Attorney Ryan Ellison and Justin A. Garris, Special Agent in Charge of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office, made the announcement today.
The Gallup Resident Agency of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Albuquerque Field Office investigated this case with assistance from the Zuni Tribal Police Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Aaron O. Jordan is prosecuting the case.
A criminal complaint is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.