District of Nevada
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Swiss Businessman Extradited to the United States Pleads Guilty to International Securities Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A Swiss executive pleaded guilty today to participating in a multimillion-dollar securities fraud scheme after living abroad as a fugitive for nearly 11 years.
According to court documents, Martin Schlaepfer, 67, a Swiss national, identified himself to victims as the Chief Executive Officer of Malom Group AG, a purported Swiss investment company. Beginning as early as October 2009, Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators located in Switzerland and Las Vegas, Nevada, orchestrated a scheme in which they promoted investments that they knew to be fictitious. Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators told victims that, for an up-front payment, Malom would provide access to lucrative investment opportunities and substantial cash loans. To effectuate this scheme, the co-conspirators provided victims with fabricated bank documents purporting to show that Malom held hundreds of millions of dollars in overseas bank accounts. When victims wired their money into an escrow account controlled by the co-conspirators, the money was released and disbursed to, among others, Schlaepfer for his own personal use. As a result of the scheme, victims were defrauded of approximately $6 million.
Schlaepfer was indicted in December 2013. He was arrested in Italy in September 2024, pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice, and extradited to the United States in July 2025. Three of Schlaepfer’s co-conspirators, Anthony Brandel, James Warras and Sean Finn, were found guilty of conspiracy and multiple counts of wire fraud and securities fraud following separate jury trials in 2015 and 2020 and each sentenced to 87 months in prison. A fourth defendant, Joseph Micelli, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud in 2015 and was sentenced to 60 months in prison. A fifth defendant, Hans-Jurg Lips, remains at large outside the United States. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Schlaepfer pleaded guilty to securities fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
The FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office is investigating the case.
Senior Counsel Anna G. Kaminska and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Italian authorities to secure the extradition of Schlaepfer from Italy.
Swiss Businessman Extradited to the United States Pleads Guilty to International Securities Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — A Swiss executive pleaded guilty today to participating in a multimillion-dollar securities fraud scheme after living abroad as a fugitive for nearly 11 years.
According to court documents, Martin Schlaepfer, 67, a Swiss national, identified himself to victims as the Chief Executive Officer of Malom Group AG, a purported Swiss investment company. Beginning as early as October 2009, Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators located in Switzerland and Las Vegas, Nevada, orchestrated a scheme in which they promoted investments that they knew to be fictitious. Schlaepfer and his co-conspirators told victims that, for an up-front payment, Malom would provide access to lucrative investment opportunities and substantial cash loans. To effectuate this scheme, the co-conspirators provided victims with fabricated bank documents purporting to show that Malom held hundreds of millions of dollars in overseas bank accounts. When victims wired their money into an escrow account controlled by the co-conspirators, the money was released and disbursed to, among others, Schlaepfer for his own personal use. As a result of the scheme, victims were defrauded of approximately $6 million.
Schlaepfer was indicted in December 2013. He was arrested in Italy in September 2024, pursuant to an Interpol Red Notice, and extradited to the United States in July 2025. Three of Schlaepfer’s co-conspirators, Anthony Brandel, James Warras and Sean Finn, were found guilty of conspiracy and multiple counts of wire fraud and securities fraud following separate jury trials in 2015 and 2020 and each sentenced to 87 months in prison. A fourth defendant, Joseph Micelli, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and securities fraud in 2015 and was sentenced to 60 months in prison. A fifth defendant, Hans-Jurg Lips, remains at large outside the United States. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Schlaepfer pleaded guilty to securities fraud and is scheduled to be sentenced on June 9, 2026. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI’s Las Vegas Field Office is investigating the case.
Senior Counsel Anna G. Kaminska and Assistant United States Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez are prosecuting the case. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs worked with Italian authorities to secure the extradition of Schlaepfer from Italy.
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Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Prison for Trafficking Large Quantity of MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to three years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for selling a large quantity of methamphetamine.
According to court documents, on July 17, 2024, Josiah Judah was introduced by co-defendant Urkeno Walter as the co-defendant’s “right hand man”. During the conversation, Judah said Walter used him in drug sale negotiations with Mexican drug traffickers and Judah often received complimentary rooms at a hotel which he used to sell drugs. On August 28, 2024, in a parking lot, Judah sold two pounds of methamphetamine for $2,800.
Judah pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of methamphetamine.
“Today’s sentencing sends a stern message to drug traffickers who peddle drugs and endanger the safety and wellbeing of our communities,” said Anthony Chrysanthis, Special Agent in Charge of the Los Angeles Division, which oversees Nevada. “One by one, you will be held accountable. The strong partnership between local, state, and federal agencies demonstrates DEA’s relentless commitment to bringing drug criminals to justice and halting the flow of methamphetamine and other dangerous drugs.”
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Chrysanthis made the announcement.
The DEA investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Brister prosecuted the case.
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Felon Sentenced to Prison for Unlawful Possession of A FirearmRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A felon was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 42 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for unlawfully possessing a semiautomatic pistol.
According to court documents, on December 17, 2021, Ricardo Heriberto Miranda, also known as “Pee-Wee,” was released from the Southern Nevada Detention Center to begin a new term of supervised release in a separate case. He did not report to the United States Probation Office.
On December 29, 2023, Miranda and another person were in a stolen car that collided at a high speed with two parked vehicles. After the collision, Miranda placed a loaded 9x19mm semiautomatic pistol in his pocket and walked to a nearby residence. He then placed the pistol inside a wheel well of a pickup truck parked at the residence. Miranda and the other person left the scene of the collision. The pistol had been stolen from a licensed firearms dealer in Las Vegas.
Miranda has prior felony convictions for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute and distribute a controlled substance in the District of Wyoming, and attempt possession of stolen vehicle in Clark County, Nevada.
Miranda pleaded guilty to one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge John Wester, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
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Mexican National with Prior Felony Convictions Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced today by United States District Judge Jennifer Dorsey to 15 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed on four prior occasions from the country.
According to court documents and statements made during court proceedings, on February 6, 2025, Victor Manuel Navarro-Quesada was found in the United States after he was previously deported to Mexico on May 4, 2010; August 4, 2014; November 13, 2018; and June 10, 2019.
On February 5, 2025, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police arrested Navarro-Quesada for Trafficking a Controlled Substance and four counts of Possess to Sell a Controlled Substance. Navarro-Quesada has previous felony convictions for Possession of Controlled Substance with Intent to Sell out of the Eighth Judicial District Court, Clark County, Nevada, and Illegal Reentry after Deportation out of the U.S. District Court, District of Colorado.
Navarro-Quesada pleaded guilty to one count of Deported Alien Found in the United States. After serving his prison sentence he will be deported to Mexico for a fifth time.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Acting Field Office Director Levya Ruben made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
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Mother and Son Plead Guilty to $5 Million Tax ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas woman and her son pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud the United States by filing false tax returns with the IRS and diverting portions of the resulting tax refunds to themselves.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Iris Hondermann owned and operated a tax preparation business in Las Vegas. Her son Ivan Odiaga, also of Las Vegas, worked for the business. From approximately 2017 through 2021, Hondermann and Odiaga prepared tax returns for clients that included one or more false items, including business profits and losses, COVID-19 sick and family leave credits, and residential energy credits.
Between 2017 and 2021, Hondermann and Odiaga prepared false tax returns with the IRS seeking a total of more than $5 million in refunds that their clients were not entitled to receive. At times, Hondermann and Odiaga also diverted portions of client tax refunds without their clients’ knowledge or consent. From 2017 through 2021, they diverted more than $1.1 million in false tax refunds to bank accounts one or both of them controlled.
Finally, Odiaga filed approximately 279 tax returns using the unique identifier of another tax preparer without permission, even though the IRS had issued multiple letters warning him against such misuse.
Hondermann and Odiaga are scheduled to be sentenced on June 8, 2026. Both face a maximum sentence of five years in prison for conspiracy to defraud the United States. They also face periods of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarom Gregory for the IRS Criminal Investigation's Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorneys Thomas W. Flynn and Stuart A. Wexler of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section are prosecuting the case.
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Business Owner Sentenced to Four Years in Prison for Multimillion-Dollar Ponzi Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas business owner was sentenced today to 48 months in prison for fraudulently obtaining nearly $4 million dollars from a food brokerage company.
According to court documents, Richard Vairo owned Richard’s Brazilian Sausage LLC, a Florida company that purportedly sold sausage to grocery stores in Florida. From September 2021 to about October 2022, he carried out a scheme to solicit money from a Las Vegas food brokerage company to increase the sales of sausage to a supermarket chain. As part of the scheme, he falsely stated that he would repay the food brokerage company a percentage of the gross profits received from the sausage sales. He sent false weekly statements to the food brokerage company; and repeatedly misrepresented that a bank had placed a hold on the funds in the bank account. He never sold sausages to the supermarket.
Throughout the scheme, Vairo used a social media messaging application and emails to misrepresent that he was selling to the supermarket. The food brokerage company loaned Vairo nearly $11 million, and Vairo repaid the food brokerage company about $7 million, using the victims’ own money as if the repayment came from sales to the supermarket. In total, the food brokerage company had a net loss of about $3,887,620. Vairo used the money he fraudulently obtained from the food brokerage company to support his lifestyle, to pay his bills and debts, and to conduct his business activities.
“Richard Vairo betrayed the trust of a local food brokerage company, stealing nearly $4 million through a calculated fraud scheme,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Thanks to a thorough FBI investigation, Vairo is being held accountable, sending a clear message that we will not tolerate financial crimes that harm victims. The FBI remains steadfast in protecting businesses and pursuing justice. If you suspect financial fraud, help us keep our community safe by reporting tips at tips.fbi.gov.”
Vairo pleaded guilty to 10 counts of wire fraud. In addition to imprisonment, Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon sentenced Vairo to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and FBI Special Agent in Charge Delzotto made the announcement.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel R. Schiess prosecuted the case.
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Jury Convicts Las Vegas Man of Threatening to Murder Federal Officials and State EmployeesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A jury convicted a Las Vegas man of threatening to assault and murder federal officials and state employees in Washington, D.C., New York, and Montana.
Court records and trial evidence showed that, from November 30, 2023, through July 7, 2024, Spencer Christjencody Gear made a series of threatening phone calls and sent an email threatening to assault and murder eight federal officials, including judges, as well as three state employees. The threats were intended to intimidate and interfere with the officials as they carried out their duties and to retaliate against them for actions taken in their official roles.
After a six-day trial, Gear was found guilty of nine counts of threatening a federal official and 11 counts of transmitting a communication containing a threat to injure.
Sentencing is scheduled on June 1, 2026, before United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey. He faces a maximum penalty of 10 years for each count of threatening a federal official and five years for each count of transmitting a threat to injure.
“This verdict affirms a core principle: the First Amendment protects free speech, but it does not protect threats,” said Executive Assistant United States Attorney Summer Johnson for the District of Nevada. “The defendant’s calls and email were made to instill fear and included threats to assault and kill federal officials, judges, and state employees. This verdict makes clear that this conduct crosses a legal line.”
“Threats of violence are never just words—they are serious federal crimes, and the FBI takes every threat seriously,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Spreading fear and intimidation has no place in our community. Our commitment is unwavering: any threat, whether spoken or written, will be investigated thoroughly. We stand firm in protecting our public servants and ensuring that those who seek to harm others are held accountable.”
Executive Assistant United States Attorney Johnson, Special Agent in Charge Delzotto, Marshal Gary Schofield for the U.S. Marshals Service, and Chief Michael G. Sullivan for the U.S. Capitol Police made the announcement.
The FBI, U.S. Marshals Service, and U.S. Capitol Police investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Jacob Operskalski and Daniel Schiess are prosecuting the case.
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Nevada Man Pleads Guilty to Arson at Tesla Collision Center in Las VegasRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man pleaded guilty Monday to using a firearm and Molotov cocktails to destroy and damage vehicles and property at a Tesla Collision center in March 2025.
According to court documents, on March 18, 2025, Paul Hyon Kim spray-painted the word “RESIST” on the front of the Tesla Collision center entrance. He then used a PA-15 multi-caliber firearm equipped with a .300 BLACKOUT upper receiver attached to the lower receiver; and a 7.62mm silencer to shoot out surveillance cameras. Kim then fired several shots into vehicles. Next, Kim threw three Molotov cocktails into three vehicles; two exploded and erupted into flames, and a third did not detonate. In total, Kim damaged five Tesla vehicles.
Kim pleaded guilty to two counts of arson of property used in interstate commerce; one count of attempted arson of property used in interstate commerce; and one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm (destructive device). The mandatory minimum statutory penalty is five years in prison. The total maximum statutory penalty is 70 years in prison.
Sentencing is scheduled for May 27, 2026, before United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division, and Special Agent in Charge John Wester for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF) San Francisco Field Division made the announcement.
The FBI, ATF, and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case with significant assistance from the Clark County Fire Department.
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Felon Sentenced to 12 and A Half Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 150 months in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release for possessing methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine with intent to sell from his apartment.
According to court documents, on or about June 29, 2023, Elijah Sylee Shelton possessed with the intent to distribute over 300 grams of methamphetamine, over 45 grams of fentanyl, and nearly six grams of cocaine. Shelton has prior felony convictions including burglaries and using and carrying a firearm during a crime of violence. He was on federal supervised release at the time of the current crimes.
In October 2025, a jury convicted Shelton of three counts: (1) possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; (2) possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; and (3) possession with intent to distribute cocaine. Shelton hid most of the drugs in women’s purses inside his apartment’s ventilation system.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys James Gaeta and Joshua Brister prosecuted the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Collects Nearly $12 Million in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2025Read the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – The District of Nevada collected $11,808,878.69 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2025, announced First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah. Of this amount, $11,184,107.37 was collected in criminal actions and $624,771.32 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the District of Nevada worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $15,031.84 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $100 was collected in criminal actions and $14,931.84 was collected in civil actions.
“The District of Nevada is committed to collecting restitution for victims of federal crime and criminal and civil debts owed to the United States,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Chattah. “The Financial Litigation Unit and Asset Recovery Unit are a critical part of fulfilling our mission by collecting restitution and debts owed. Thanks to the dedicated Assistant U.S. Attorneys and professional staff we are holding wrongdoers financially accountable for their crimes.”
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Additionally, the District of Nevada, working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $30,514,684.99 in asset forfeiture actions in Fiscal Year 2025. Forfeited assets are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
- In December 2024, a victim received $3,443,286.03.
- In April 2025, the District of Nevada and the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering, Narcotics and Forfeiture Section (MNF) authorized the forfeited $531,308.46 of the fraudulently obtained Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans be paid to the Small Business Administration.
- In May 2025, the District of Nevada and MNF authorized the forfeited $1,068,123.94 of the fraudulently obtained PPP loans be paid to the Small Business Administration.
- In July 2025, a victim received $32,193,787.94.
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Cleaning Service Owner Pleads Guilty to Employment Tax CrimesRead the Press Release
A former Nevada business owner pleaded guilty today to willfully failing to pay over employment taxes on behalf of the cleaning company she owned and operated.
According to court documents and statements made in court: Deborah Meadows, 64, formerly of Las Vegas, owned and operated A to Z Employment Services LLC, which provided carpet, upholstery and roadside cleaning services in Nevada. Meadows controlled all financial matters related to the company. She also was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and income taxes from her employees’ wages and paying those funds over to the IRS, as well as filing quarterly employment tax returns with the IRS.
From the first quarter of 2010 through the fourth quarter of 2020, however, Meadows withheld taxes from her employees’ wages but did not pay over those taxes to the IRS or file the required quarterly employment tax returns. From 2018 through 2021, Meadows also did not file individual tax returns, even though she was required to do so by law. In total, Meadows caused a tax loss to the U.S. government exceeding $1.2 million.
After the IRS began investigating Meadows, she took steps to obstruct the grand jury investigation. In response to a grand jury subpoena, Meadows provided investigators with altered bank records and inaccurate tax records. These altered bank records purportedly showed that another company Meadows owned had made sizeable tax payments to the IRS, when in fact the company had not made any such payments. She also provided inaccurate individual and employment tax returns that allegedly showed taxes paid to the IRS, when in fact Meadows knew at the time that she had never paid such taxes.
Meadows pleaded guilty to one count of willful failure to account for and pay over trust fund taxes. She faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Meadows is scheduled to be sentenced on May 21, 2026.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division and First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant Deputy Chief Eric Powers and Trial Attorney Regina Jeon of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section are prosecuting the case, with substantial assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada.
Cleaning Service Owner Pleads Guilty to Employment Tax CrimesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — A former Nevada business owner pleaded guilty today to willfully failing to pay over employment taxes on behalf of the cleaning company she owned and operated.
According to court documents and statements made in court: Deborah Meadows, 64, formerly of Las Vegas, owned and operated A to Z Employment Services LLC, which provided carpet, upholstery, and roadside cleaning services in Nevada. Meadows controlled all financial matters related to the company. She also was responsible for withholding Social Security, Medicare and income taxes from her employees’ wages and paying those funds over to the IRS, as well as filing quarterly employment tax returns with the IRS.
From the first quarter of 2010 through the fourth quarter of 2020, however, Meadows withheld taxes from her employees’ wages but did not pay over those taxes to the IRS or file the required quarterly employment tax returns. From 2018 through 2021, Meadows also did not file individual tax returns, even though she was required to do so by law. In total, Meadows caused a tax loss to the U.S. government exceeding $1.2 million.
After the IRS began investigating Meadows, she took steps to obstruct the grand jury investigation. In response to a grand jury subpoena, Meadows provided investigators with altered bank records and inaccurate tax records. These altered bank records purportedly showed that another company Meadows owned had made sizeable tax payments to the IRS, when in fact the company had not made any such payments. She also provided inaccurate individual and employment tax returns that allegedly showed taxes paid to the IRS, when in fact Meadows knew at the time that she had never paid such taxes.
Meadows pleaded guilty to one count of willful failure to account for and pay over trust fund taxes. She faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Meadows is scheduled to be sentenced on May 21, 2026.
Assistant Attorney General A. Tysen Duva of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarom Gregory for the IRS Criminal Investigation's Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Assistant Deputy Chief Eric Powers and Trial Attorney Regina Jeon of the Criminal Division’s Tax Section are prosecuting the case, with substantial assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada.
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Las Vegas Woman Pleads Guilty to Making and Selling Counterfeit CouponsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas woman pleaded guilty Tuesday to manufacturing and selling counterfeit store coupons with inflated values, then selling those coupons online and via social media to co-conspirators.
According to court documents, from August 23, 2017, to September 17, 2019, Serena Reamy Hedden manufactured nearly 3.5 million counterfeit coupons at her residence. The counterfeit coupon values were often created with inflated values, far in excess of what an authentic coupon would offer, in order to receive items from retail stores for free or for a greatly reduced price. As part of the scheme, she sold the counterfeit coupons to co-conspirators via social media and online and would mail the counterfeit coupons through the United States Postal Service. Hedden sold the merchandise she unlawfully obtained by using the counterfeit coupons she manufactured from shelves in her garage.
On September 17, 2019, a federal search warrant was executed at Hedden’s residence. During that search, agents found electronic equipment she used to manufactured counterfeit coupons, along with large quantities of specialized paper, specialized printers, a large number of counterfeit coupons, unused packing boxes, and binders containing spreadsheet ledger pages. Analysis of bar codes show that Hedden’s scheme produced nearly 3.5 million counterfeit coupons that caused losses of at least $20,833,517.
“This case demonstrates the serious impact of large-scale counterfeit coupon schemes on retailers and consumers alike,” said Special Agent in Charge Eddy Wang. “Serena Hedden’s actions not only defrauded businesses out of millions of dollars, but also undermined the integrity of the marketplace. We remain committed to investigating and prosecuting those who engage in such fraudulent activity.”
Hedden pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud. The maximum statutory penalty is 20 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 7, 2026. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Wang for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) made the announcement.
This case was investigated by HSI. Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Frayn is prosecuting the case.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Recognizes National Human Trafficking Prevention MonthRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada observes National Human Trafficking Prevention Month and joins the Departments of Justice (DOJ) and Homeland Security (DHS) in reaffirming the administration’s commitment to combating all forms of human trafficking and protecting victims and survivors. Human Trafficking Prevention Month presents an opportunity for DHS and DOJ, through Homeland Security Task Forces (HSTF) to intensify operational efforts, raise public awareness, and strengthen partnerships across federal, state, and local agencies to disrupt trafficking networks, protect vulnerable individuals, and ensure traffickers are brought to justice.
“This Department of Justice is working tirelessly alongside our partners to dismantle human trafficking networks, help survivors, and protect vulnerable populations from being exploited,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Under this administration we have seen an increase in human trafficking prosecutions, and during Human Trafficking Prevention Month we reaffirm our commitment to prosecuting traffickers and encourage Americans to report instances of human trafficking in their communities.”
“Through the Homeland Security Task Force, President Trump is taking the fight directly to human trafficking networks and disrupting their modern-day slave trade while seizing their assets and arresting their kingpins and foot soldiers. The American people should not have to live in fear of cartels, gang bangers, and foreign terrorists preying upon the most vulnerable among us,” the United States Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem said in a statement. “The Homeland Security Task Force is the largest coordinated campaign against transnational criminal organizations in U.S. history, and I’m proud to co-lead it with Attorney General Bondi.”
“During Human Trafficking Prevention Month, the FBI reiterates our work with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies and national victim-based advocacy groups in joint task forces to protect our communities across the country,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The horrifying reach of human trafficking spreads far and wide. Homeland Security Task Forces are fighting back to disrupt these perilous networks and put a stop to that reach. The FBI will continue our investigations and bring justice to those exploited by human traffickers.
In January 2025, President Donald J. Trump signed Executive Order 14159, Protecting the American People Against Invasion. Section 6 of this order directed the Attorney General and the Secretary of Homeland Security to jointly establish HSTFs in every state nationwide. The HSTF objective is to end the presence of criminal cartels, foreign gangs, and transnational criminal organizations (TCOs) throughout the United States; dismantle cross-border human smuggling and trafficking networks; end the scourge of human smuggling and trafficking, with a particular focus on such offenses involving children; and ensure the use of all available law enforcement tools to faithfully execute the immigration laws of the United States.
Since January 20, 2025, the following individuals have been charged with human trafficking-related crimes:
- Carlos Recinos-Valdez and his son Kevin Recinos-Ruano were charged in a criminal complaint for allegedly conspiring with each other to harbor illegal aliens in the Reno area for their personal financial gain. As alleged, Recinos-Valdez orchestrated the illegal smuggling of aliens through a Transnational Criminal Organization (TCO) with a network of human smugglers and traffickers located throughout Guatemala, Mexico, and the United States. Once in Reno, Recinos-Valdez would demand and collect regular payments for smuggling fees from the victims to pay off their debt to the TCO; and he threatened victims with physical violence if payments were not received. Recinos-Valdez is charged with one count of conspiracy to harbor aliens; three counts of harboring illegal aliens; two counts of aiding and abetting attempted interference with commerce by extortion; and one count of aiding and abetting bringing illegal aliens. Recinos-Ruano is charged with one count of conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens. A jury trial is scheduled to begin April 21, 2026.
- A grand jury returned an indictment charging Rafael Juan Mitjans for allegedly subjecting three victims from Cuba to forced, confiscating their passports and other identifications, and providing false statements on immigration documents. Mitjans was charged with three counts of forced labor, three counts of unlawful conduct with respect to documents in furtherance of trafficking and forced labor, and three counts of false statements on immigration documents. A jury trial is scheduled to begin May 19, 2025.
In January 2026, DHS and DOJ are surging resources to fight and raise awareness about human trafficking, including:
- Identifying ongoing investigations and prioritizing featured operations across 45 federal locations and 10 state locations with an emphasis on border states.
- Coordinating with FBI Human Trafficking Squads and multi-agency Human Trafficking Task Forces to conduct victim recovery.
- Partnering with AMTRAK and FAMS to increase law enforcement resources and distribute posters with QR codes for reporting human trafficking in all station bathrooms and trains.
- Running advertisements related to $250 million recovery from Backpage to distribute to victims and additional victim restitution efforts by DOL-OIG.
- Organizing Human Trafficking seminars and outreach events with DHS Center for Countering Human Trafficking at high schools and colleges to highlight the role of HSTFs in addressing human trafficking.
On August 25, 2025, HSTF officially launched its effort to protect the Homeland with a September Surge encompassing 400 operations nationwide. In just 43 days, HSTF nationwide operations resulted in 3,266 arrests and seizures including:
- 1,041 Sinaloa members
- 856 Cártel Jalisco Nueva Generación (“CJNG”) members
- 641 MS-13 members
- 456 Tren de Aragua members
- 1,067 weapons
- More than $3,250,000 in currency
- Approximately 91 metric tons of narcotics
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Two Mexican Nationals with Prior Felony Convictions and Multiple Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Two Mexican nationals unlawfully residing in Las Vegas made their initial court appearances today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Victor Alfonso Cabada-Landeros, 33, and Ezequiel Lopez-Fuentes, 42, are both charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for February 12, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy J Koppe.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Cabada-Landeros and Lopez-Fuentes are both citizens and nationals of Mexico and were both previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally. On January 21, 2026, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Fugitive Operations Team arrested both Cabada-Landeros and Lopez-Fuentes in targeted operations.
Cabada-Landeros had previously been deported by ICE on or about February 18, 2015, and again on or about November 9, 2019. Cabada-Landeros has prior felony convictions for Conspiracy to Violate Uniform Controlled Substances Act and for Illegal Reentry after Deportation, the same offense he is currently charged with. Both convictions are out of Clark County, Nevada.
Lopez-Fuentes had previously been deported by ICE on four prior occasions with the last deportation being on or about or about June 18, 2023. Lopez-Fuentes has prior felony convictions for Unlawful Delivery of Heroin, out of Portland, Oregon, and for Trafficking in Controlled Substance out of Clark County, Nevada.
If convicted, both Cabada-Landeros and Lopez-Fuentes each face a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Acting Field Office Director Brian Henke made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Mexican National with Multiple Felony Convictions and 11 Prior Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made his initial court appearance Monday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Ulian Ohye-Michiko, 48, is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for February 9, 2026, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Ohye-Michiko is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported on 11 prior occasions since 2008 and reentered the United States illegally after his most recent removal in 2020.
On December 27, 2025, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police arrested Ohye-Michiko for child abuse or neglect, domestic battery, false statement to or obstruct public officer, driving without a driver's license, driving under the influence and operator - proof of insurance required. On January 13, 2026, Ohye-Michiko was remanded to ICE Las Vegas, Nevada, custody on an immigration detainer. Ohye-Michiko also has four prior felony convictions: Aggravated Assault- Law Enforcement Officer, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and two more for illegally returning to the United States after a removal.
If convicted, Ohye-Michiko faces the maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. After serving his sentence, Ohye-Michiko will be deported to Mexico for a twelfth time.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Acting Field Office Director Brian Henke made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Montana Man Sentenced to Life in Prison for Murder-For-Hire Conspiracy, Tampering with A Witness by Killing, Stalking Resulting in Death, and Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
RENO – A Missoula, Montana, man was sentenced today to life in prison by United States District Judge Miranda Du following his conviction for killing two people, and firearm and marijuana trafficking charges.
“There were no bounds on the defendant’s cruel and violent actions,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “There is no parole in the federal system. The defendant will never walk outside of the prison walls. I want to thank our federal and local partners for relentlessly pursuing this case and ensuring justice for the families and community.”
“This was a horrific act of targeted violence. Spurlock's callous and blatant disregard for human life was unconscionable,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “The FBI will never stop pursuing those who threaten our communities' safety. Thanks to the tireless work of our FBI personnel in the Reno Resident Agency and our committed law enforcement partners, Spurlock was located, prosecuted, and will not harm another person in our community again.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at a four-week jury trial, Cory Spurlock, and others were involved in an illegal, large scale marijuana distribution business based in Mound House, Nevada. During a marijuana transaction in Mound House, Nevada, on June 19, 2020, Jered Stefansky went missing. Stefansky had traveled to Mound House from Redding to pick up a large amount of cash. The last call from Stefansky’s cell phone was to a number associated with Spurlock and Spurlock became a person of interest in the investigation into Stefansky’s disappearance. Stefansky’s mother never gave up on trying to find her son and appeared on a podcast in late September of 2020 where she discussed her son’s disappearance and the people her son was involved with in the marijuana conspiracy, including Will Larsen and Spurlock.
According to testimony, Spurlock listened to the podcast and believed Will Larsen, his partner in the marijuana business, was a rat and needed to die. Spurlock promised a co-conspirator payment for assistance in killing Larsen. In early November 2020, Spurlock traveled to Nevada and California with two co-conspirators. Spurlock and his co-conspirators stalked Larsen and his wife, Yesenia Arriaga Larsen, throughout the Reno and Carson City area and followed them to just outside Bridgeport, California. The Larsens were shot and stabbed to death on November 8, 2020, their bodies left on the side of US Highway 395. Spurlock was also convicted of robbery for stealing the money Will Larsen had in his wallet. Stefansky’s skeletal remains were found in March 2021, at the Rye Patch Recreation area in Pershing County, Nevada.
Anthony Chrysanthis, Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration Los Angeles Field Division, which oversees Nevada, said, “This case exposed the ruthless nature of a drug criminal, whose streak of violence could not be quelled. Cory Spurlock, while running an illegal, large-scale marijuana distribution business, stopped at nothing to trample rivals or perceived threats. Today’s sentencing stops him from further terrorizing our neighborhoods. DEA is in lockstep with local and federal partners, who remain committed to safeguarding our communities from the type of violence ushered in by drug criminals.”
“The violent actions conducted in this case are heinous,” said Special Agent in Charge John Wester, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). “Public safety is at the forefront of ATF’s mission. This sentencing marks a victory for justice and sends a clear warning to those who seek to orchestrate violence within our communities that their conduct will not be tolerated. Partnerships are the backbone of law enforcement. ATF will continue to work alongside our prosecutorial and law enforcement partners to ensure crimes of this nature are investigated and brought to justice.”
Spurlock was convicted at trial in September 2025, of one-count each of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute over 1000 kilograms of marijuana; murder-for-hire conspiracy; tampering with a witness by killing; two-counts of stalking resulting in death, interference with commerce by robbery; and causing death through use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence.
First Assistant United States Attorney Chattah, FBI Special Agent in Charge Delzotto, DEA Special Agent in Charge Chrysanthis, and ATF Special Agent in Charge Wester made the announcement.
The FBI Las Vegas Division, Mono County Sheriff’s Office, DEA, ATF, Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Carson City Sheriff’s Office, and the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case with significant assistance from the Salt Lake City FBI Office-Missoula Resident Agency. Assistant United States Attorneys Megan Rachow, Penelope Brady, and Andrew Keenan prosecuted the case.
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Las Vegas Man Pleads Guilty to Aiming Laser Beam at Police HelicopterRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man pleaded guilty Wednesday to pointing a green laser beam at a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter as it was responding to a call.
According to court documents and admissions made in court by Sergio Octavio Sanchez, on January 2, 2025, he aimed the beam of a laser pointer at a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter several times as the helicopter was providing aerial support for officers on the ground. Due to the laser beam striking the helicopter, the helicopter was forced to divert from its assignment and flight path.
Aiming a laser beam at an aircraft in the sky poses a serious safety risk. Laser beams can cause disorientation, temporary blindness - potentially causing a midair collision or other incident - and in some cases permanent vision problems or blindness. According to the FAA, in 2025, pilots reported 10,993 laser strikes.
Sanchez faces the maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for May 12, 2026. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Tina Snellings is prosecuting the case.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI’s Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
If you spot someone aiming a laser at the sky in a suspicious manner, you can report it to the FBI by calling 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or visiting tips.fbi.gov. You can also report laser strikes to the FAA.
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Federal Government Seeks Further Review After Release of Convicted Murderer from Immigration CustodyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada will seek further legal action after a court ordered the release of a man convicted of murder and identified by the Department of Homeland Security as a member of the MS-13 gang. United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II ordered the release over the government’s objection.
“Our office remains committed to protecting public safety and enforcing the law remain top priorities,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “In this matter, however, the outcome results in the release of a convicted murderer and known MS-13 gang member into the community, raising serious public-safety concerns. We are deeply troubled by the risks posed to the public and will continue to pursue all lawful avenues to address those concerns and safeguard the community.”
The individual has a final order of removal from the United States. Under federal law, people with final removal orders are required to remain in immigration custody for a set period of time so that removal can be carried out and to help protect public safety. The government maintains that releasing this individual conflicts with that law.
While the individual’s immigration case was ongoing, the United States Court of Appeals for the Ninth Circuit declined to stop his removal and ordered that removal should proceed. That decision triggered the mandatory detention period required by federal immigration law.
In accordance with the Court’s Order, the individual was released on January 21, 2026. If the individual was not released from detention the federal government faced sanction by the Court, including being held in contempt for failing to follow the Court's Order.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Announces Creation of Public Corruption Strike ForceRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – The United States Attorney’s Office today announced the establishment of a Public Corruption Strike Force, the first of its kind in the District of Nevada.
“For far too long, public corruption in the State of Nevada has been a scourge on Nevada’s residents and business owners,” said First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Public corruption affects everything from a competitive and untainted business environment with minimal barriers to market entry, labor industries and overall standard of living for Nevadans. The Public Corruption Strike Force will ensure that all Federal, State, and Municipal agencies coordinate and work together to pool criminal intelligence and data; and ensure the vigorous prosecution of bad actors violating the public’s trust. No stone will be left unturned to protect Nevadans from corruption and no public official and/or agency is above the law.”
The Public Corruption Strike Force is within the Office’s Criminal Division. Assistant United States Attorneys with extensive public corruption experience will handle cases of allegations of criminal misconduct. This specialized unit will focus on the investigation and prosecution of all federal crimes affecting government integrity, including bribery of public officials at all levels of government, election crimes, and other related offenses. This endeavor will be a collaborative effort with federal, state, and local agencies across the Silver State.
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Former Nevada resident Sentenced for possession of Child PornographyRead the Press Release
RENO – Kurtis Lee Solomon, formerly of Fernley, Nevada, was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge Anne R. Traum to time served followed by 10 years of supervised release. Solomon had served approximately three days in custody. The government recommended a sentence of 97 months incarceration with lifetime supervision to follow.
Yesterday’s sentence follows Solomon’s conviction in December 2024 after a six-day jury trial for Possession of Child Pornography. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, beginning on a date unknown and continuing up to and including September 9, 2021, Solomon knowingly and repeatedly accessed child pornography websites over the internet and viewed child sexual abuse material that included preteens and babies. Solomon had admitted to having websites containing child pornography saved to his internet browser’s “Favorites.” Solomon was arrested on April 17, 2022, and remained in custody until April 19, 2022.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Department of Homeland Security Investigations with assistance from the Sparks Police Department, the Federal Bureau of Investigation, and Lyon County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Keenan prosecuted the case.
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Owyhee Man Sentenced for Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
RENO – An Owyhee man was sentenced Thursday by United States District Judge Anne R. Traum to time served. The government recommended a sentence of 18 months incarceration.
Yesterday’s sentence follows R.C. Crutcher’s conviction in November after a four-day jury trial for tampering with a witness. According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, from March 22, 2025, to March 16, 2025, Crutcher attempted to persuade a victim from testifying against him at a federal proceeding. In addition to time served, Judge Traum sentenced Crutcher to three years of supervised release.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs with assistance from the Owyhee Tribal Police Department and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Penelope Brady and Andrew Keenan prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National with Multiple Felony Convictions and Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made his initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Rito Lopez-Mundo, 54, is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 30, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Lopez-Mundo is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported on six prior occasions and reentered the United States illegally.
On July 4, 2023, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police arrested Lopez-Mundo for robbery with a deadly weapon, assault with a deadly weapon, kidnapping 1st degree with a deadly weapon, and own possess gun by prohibited person. On November 26, 2025, the Nevada Department of Corrections remanded Lopez-Mundo to ICE Las Vegas, Nevada, custody after he served a 19-to-48-month sentence for conspiracy to commit robbery. Lopez-Mundo also has four prior felony convictions for the same offense he is currently charged with.
If convicted, Lopez-Mundo faces the maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment. After serving his sentence, Lopez-Mundo will be deported to Mexico for a seventh time.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Acting Field Office Director Brian Henke made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Felon Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Unlawful Possession of Machine Gun Conversion Device, Firearms and MethamphetamineRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A North Las Vegas resident who has prior felony convictions was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 10 years in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release for possession of a machine gun, possession of six firearms, and possession of more than 50 grams of methamphetamine with the intent to distribute that methamphetamine to another person. The government recommended a prison sentence of 130 months and five years of supervised release.
According to court documents, in April 2023, Harold Wesley Snowten IV, also known as “Insane,” unlawfully possessed six firearms, including a Taurus G2c 9x19mm pistol that had a loaded 17-round high-capacity magazine; a MasterPiece Arms Defender 9x19mm pistol that had a loaded 30-round high-capacity magazine; a Smith & Wesson 9x19mm pistol that had a loaded 16-round high-capacity magazine; a SCCY CPX-2 9x19mm pistol that had a loaded 32-round high-capacity magazine, as well as several other magazines. Furthermore, Snowten admitted that in addition to the ammunition found in the firearms and various magazines, he possessed more than 500 other rounds of ammunition. Snowten has prior felony convictions including unlawful possession of cocaine base for sale and felon in possession of a firearm, all in San Diego, California. In addition to the firearm charges, Snowten admitted that he possessed with the intent to distribute more than 50 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Snowten pleaded guilty to one count of illegal possession of a machine gun, one count of a prohibited person in possession of firearms, and one count of possession of a controlled substance with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge John Wester for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, San Francisco Field Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the ATF and the North Las Vegas Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig prosecuted the case.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America, a nationwide initiative that marshals the full resources of the Department of Justice to repel the invasion of illegal immigration, achieve the total elimination of cartels and transnational criminal organizations and protect our communities from the perpetrators of violent crime. Operation Take Back America streamlines efforts and resources from the Department’s OCDETF and Project Safe Neighborhoods.
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Illinois Woman Pleads Guilty to COVID-19 FraudRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – An Illinois woman pleaded guilty today to conspiring to defraud the United States by making claims for refunds of false COVID-19 related employment tax credits.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Lakeibia Fannin conspired with others in the State and Federal District of Nevada from June 2022 through November 2023 to file tax returns seeking fraudulent refunds based on the employee retention credit (ERC) and paid sick and family leave credit. Fannin and her businesses were not eligible to receive the refundable credits in the amounts claimed. Fannin used the proceeds for her personal benefit, including on vacations, a cruise, jewelry, designer clothes, and a car.
In total, Fannin requested more than $3.5 million and actually received over $1.4 million.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact, Congress authorized the ERC for small businesses to reduce the employment tax owed to the IRS. Congress also authorized the IRS to give a credit against employment taxes to reimburse businesses for the wages paid to employees who were on sick or family leave and could not work because of COVID-19. This credit was equal to the wages the business paid the employees during the sick or family leave, subject to a maximum amount.
Fannin is scheduled to be sentenced on March 19, 2026. She faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors. Fannin has agreed to pay over $1.4 million in restitution to the IRS.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarom Gregory for the IRS Criminal Investigation's Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigations and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney John C. Gerardi of the Criminal Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez of the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
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Cuban National Indicted for Assaulting Transportation Security Officers in Las VegasRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Cuban national living in Las Vegas made his initial court appearance today for attempting to access a secure passenger boarding area using a false boarding pass and assaulting officers at Harry Reid International Airport in Las Vegas.
According to allegations contained in the indictment, on November 3, 2025, Jhon Raul Vizcaino Ramirez presented a Transportation Security Administration screening officer a boarding pass in the name of another person and attempted to enter the passenger boarding area. Ramirez refused to provide his identification. When another screening officer refused to return the boarding pass, Ramirez slapped the officer. Officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department who were working at the checkpoint were advised of a disturbance and responded to the scene. Officers attempted to detain Ramirez, and he resisted. During the altercation, Ramirez twice kicked an officer and kicked a Transportation Security Officer who was assisting to detain him.
Ramirez is charged with two counts of interference with security screening personnel; two counts of assault, resisting, or impeding person assisting certain officers or employees; and one count of entry by false pretenses to secure area of any airport. A jury trial has been set for February 9, 2026, before United States District Chief Judge Andrew P. Gordon.
Ramirez, a Cuban National, was originally found by U.S. Customs and Border Patrol on October 27, 2022, near Yuma, Arizona, after he illegally entered the U.S. from Mexico. Due to a lack of detention space, he was released. Ramirez has illegally remained in the U.S. since his release. Due to his most recent arrest, Immigrations and Custom Enforcement (ICE), has placed a detainer on him, which means he will be turned over to ICE upon conclusion of his Federal criminal charges.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah and Acting Special Agent in Charge Nicole Pfeiffer, San Francisco Field Division, TSA Investigations made the announcement.
TSA Investigations with the assistance of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case.
Assistant United States Attorney Tina Snellings is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Clark County Employee Indicted for Stealing Money from the Estates of Deceased County ResidentsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Clark County employee, who used her position with the County to gain access to the financial accounts of deceased Clark County residents, made her initial appearance in court today on a federal indictment that charged her with three counts of laundering the proceeds of her scheme to bilk the estates of the deceased residents for tens of thousands of dollars.
According to allegations in the indictment, TinaTheresa Poto-Nunu was employed by the Clark County Public Guardian’s Office where she unlawfully gained access to the financial information of deceased Clark County residents whose estates were administered by the Clark County Public Administrator. According to the indictment, Poto-Nunu then used that information to gain access to the financial accounts of the deceased individuals and then fraudulently transferred money from those accounts to pay down a credit card account she used for her personal expenses such as travel and rent.
Poto-Nunu is charged with one count of money laundering and two counts of money transactions in criminally derived property. If convicted of all counts, the statutory maximum penalty is 40 years in prison and a $750,000 fine. A federal judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jarom Gregory for the IRS Criminal Investigation's Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI and IRS Criminal Investigations. Assistant United States Attorney Afroza Yeasmin is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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Foreign National with Violent Felony Convictions Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced today by United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey to 120 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country five times.
According to court documents and statements made during court proceedings, on September 18, 2022, Jose Alberto Santacruz-Benitez was found in the United States after he was previously deported on October 22, 2009; June 5, 2014; June 30, 2014; September 17, 2017; and November 30, 2021.
Prior to his first removal, Santacruz-Benitez was convicted of conspiracy to commit kidnapping. Santacruz-Benitez and his co-conspirators kidnapped two men they believed had stolen drugs from them, torturing these victims for hours with beatings, mock drownings, and threats to kill them and their families.
After his first removal, Santacruz-Benitez repeatedly returned to this country and violated the law. He was convicted in state court of two separate incidents of felony possession of a controlled substance, and he was twice convicted in federal court for unlawfully reentering the country in violation of 8 U.S.C. § 1326. This case is his third § 1326 conviction.
After his most recent removal, Santacruz-Benitez unlawfully returned to the United States for a fifth time. In September 2022, he was discovered by immigration officials after Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers arrested him for shooting five people at a birthday party. Based on this conduct, Santacruz-Benitez was convicted of attempt murder with use of a deadly weapon in state court.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Deputy Special Agent in Charge Jonathan Sherwin for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Los Angeles made the announcement.
HSI Los Angeles investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Highlights Prosecutions During Lapse in AppropriationsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – During the recent lapse in government appropriations, the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada remained open and performed excepted duties related to national security, violations of federal law, and essential public safety functions.
The following are highlights of some cases prosecuted during the lapse in appropriations:
- Matthew Wade Beasley pleaded guilty to defrauding investors of money to fund loans, but in reality, he enriched himself and others, and to repay investors as if loans had been made. From 2017 to March 2022, he caused 1,213 investors to invest about $519.9 million. He paid himself about $33.5 million from the scheme, paid off gambling debts, and purchased luxury homes, high-end cars, and recreational vehicles. Sentencing is scheduled for January 28, 2026. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel Schiess and Jessica Oliva are prosecuting the case.
- A jury convicted Francisco Ivan Velazquez, a Mexican national, of operating a fraud scheme in which he impersonated an IRS officer and told victims he could obtain hundreds of thousands of dollars for them from a fictitious IRS program. Sentencing is scheduled for February 18, 2026. The Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration and IRS Criminal Investigation investigated the case.
- Hua Xiao, Cheng Cheng Li, and Jianming Li from China, and Jisup Hwang from South Korea, were charged with operating brothels masquerading as massage parlors throughout Las Vegas and laundering the illegal proceeds. The FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Steven Rose is prosecuting the case.
- Sergio Octavio Sanchez was indicted and made his initial court appearance for allegedly aiming the beam of a laser pointer at and in the flight path of a Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department helicopter. The laser interfered with police operations and endangered the crew of the helicopter. A jury trial is scheduled to begin on February 23, 2026. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Tina Snellings is prosecuting the case.
- Steven Gregory Thornton was sentenced to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release after pleading guilty to trafficking methamphetamine and felon in possession of a firearm. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Tina Snellings prosecuted the case.
- After a three-day trial, a jury convicted Elijah Sylee Shelton of possession of methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine. Sentencing is scheduled for January 8, 2026. The FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys James Gaeta and Joshua Brister are prosecuting the case.
- Five-time felon Brenton Scott Williams was sentenced to 84 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. In furtherance of his crimes, Williams waited for individuals to leave the gun range, followed them as they left, and then later broke into their vehicles to steal their firearms. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives investigated the case.
- Ryan Tyler Maness was sentenced to 10 years in prison for engaging in a sexually explicit conversation over Kik messenger with someone who he believed was a 13-year-old girl and attempting to engage in sexual activity with said minor. Maness attempted to meet who he believed to be a 13-year-old girl while being armed with a loaded firearm. At the time, he was on probation for a robbery conviction in Las Vegas. The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Afroza Yeasmin prosecuted the case.
An Indictment merely contain allegations, and defendants are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.
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White-Collar Executive Incarcerated for Fixing Nurse Wages and FraudRead the Press Release
A federal district court in Nevada sentenced Eduardo “Eddie” Lopez of Las Vegas to 40 months in custody and $550,000 in criminal fines. In addition, Lopez must pay $2,496,101 in criminal restitution to the defrauded purchaser of his home healthcare company. Lopez was also ordered to forfeit $10,459,000 from the fraudulent sale of his home healthcare company.
Today’s sentence follows Lopez’s conviction in April for leading a conspiracy to fix the wages of home healthcare nurses in the Las Vegas area between March 2016 and May 2019 and for five counts of fraud for concealing the government’s antitrust investigation from the buyer during the sale of his home healthcare staffing company for over $10 million.
“American workers are the bedrock of President Trump’s administration,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will continue to tirelessly fight for the innocent, like the hardworking nurses harmed in this case.”
“Wage-fixing is a brazen crime rightly punished by a lengthy period of incarceration. The dignity of work in return for a fair wage is core to our free-market enterprise system. The Defendant — a convicted antitrust criminal — profited at the expense of his employees and the unwitting buyer of his home healthcare company.” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail A. Slater of the Antitrust Division. “Far from being a mere “technical violation,” wage-fixing is a real crime that harms innocent people — in this case nurses — and today’s sentence — the Justice Department’s first ever wage-fixing conviction — reflects that such conduct will not be resolved with a fine.”
“This case demonstrates the consequences of violating antitrust laws. By conspiring to fix wages, the defendant deprived hardworking nurses the right to earn a fair wage,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with the Antitrust Division and FBI to protect workers and we will prosecute those who seek to exploit others for personal gain.”
“A free and fair market are principles of the United States, and the FBI is committed to investigating those who seek to disrupt that and scam hardworking Americans,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The victims here are the hardworking nurses, who suffered loss of wages while they tirelessly cared for and helped Americans. The FBI will continue the fight against corruption and fraud across the country and globe.”
The Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office and the FBI’s International Corruption Unit investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada. Senior Litigation Counsel Jeffrey Cramer and Mikal Condon, Assistant Chief Andrew Mast, and Trial Attorneys Paradi Javandel and Conor Bradley, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information in connection with this investigation, or other antitrust and competition crimes, should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center by visiting www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations. Whistleblowers who voluntarily report original information about antitrust and related offenses that result in criminal fines or other recoveries of at least $1 million may be eligible to receive a whistleblower reward. For more information on the Antitrust Whistleblower Rewards Program, visit www.justice.gov/atr/whistleblower-rewards.
White-Collar Executive Incarcerated for Fixing Nurse Wages and FraudRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — A federal district court in Nevada sentenced Eduardo “Eddie” Lopez of Las Vegas to 40 months in custody and $550,000 in criminal fines. In addition, Lopez must pay $2,496,101 in criminal restitution to the defrauded purchaser of his home healthcare company. Lopez was also ordered to forfeit $10,459,000 from the fraudulent sale of his home healthcare company.
Today’s sentence follows Lopez’s conviction in April for leading a conspiracy to fix the wages of home healthcare nurses in the Las Vegas area between March 2016 and May 2019 and for five counts of fraud for concealing the government’s antitrust investigation from the buyer during the sale of his home healthcare staffing company for over $10 million.
“American workers are the bedrock of President Trump’s administration,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will continue to tirelessly fight for the innocent, like the hardworking nurses harmed in this case.”
“Wage-fixing is a brazen crime rightly punished by a lengthy period of incarceration. The dignity of work in return for a fair wage is core to our free-market enterprise system. The Defendant — a convicted antitrust criminal — profited at the expense of his employees and the unwitting buyer of his home healthcare company.” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail A. Slater of the Antitrust Division. “Far from being a mere “technical violation,” wage-fixing is a real crime that harms innocent people — in this case nurses — and today’s sentence — the Justice Department’s first ever wage-fixing conviction — reflects that such conduct will not be resolved with a fine.”
“This case demonstrates the consequences of violating antitrust laws. By conspiring to fix wages, the defendant deprived hardworking nurses the right to earn a fair wage,” said First Assistant U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to working with the Antitrust Division and FBI to protect workers and we will prosecute those who seek to exploit others for personal gain.”
“A free and fair market are principles of the United States, and the FBI is committed to investigating those who seek to disrupt that and scam hardworking Americans,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “The victims here are the hardworking nurses, who suffered loss of wages while they tirelessly cared for and helped Americans. The FBI will continue the fight against corruption and fraud across the country and globe.”
The Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office and the FBI’s International Corruption Unit investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada. Senior Litigation Counsel Jeffrey Cramer and Mikal Condon, Assistant Chief Andrew Mast, and Trial Attorneys Paradi Javandel and Conor Bradley, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information in connection with this investigation, or other antitrust and competition crimes, should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center by visiting www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
Whistleblowers who voluntarily report original information about antitrust and related offenses that result in criminal fines or other recoveries of at least $1 million may be eligible to receive a whistleblower reward. For more information on the Antitrust Whistleblower Rewards Program, visit www.justice.gov/atr/whistleblower-rewards.
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Jury Convicts Owyhee Man of Witness TamperingRead the Press Release
RENO – A federal jury yesterday convicted a resident of the Duck Valley Indian Reservation in Owyhee, Nevada, of witness tampering.
As proven at trial, from March 11, 2025, to March 16, 2025, R.C. Crutcher made attempts to persuade a victim from testifying at a federal trial. Crutcher made multiple phone calls from jail to his mother, asking his mother to locate and persuade a victim not to show up for trial so his case would be dismissed.
Following a four-day trial, Crutcher was found guilty of one count of tampering with a witness.
Crutcher is scheduled for sentencing on February 24, 2026, before United States District Judge Anne R. Traum. He faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
First Assistant United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Assistant United States Attorney Penelope Brady and Andrew Keenan are prosecuting the case.
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Nevada Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Child Sex TraffickingRead the Press Release
RENO – A Winnemucca man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Miranda M. Du to 10 years in prison followed by 10 years of supervised release for transporting a 15-year-old girl from Colorado to Nevada, and having sexual contact with her, after meeting each other on a social media application.
According to court documents, from December 31, 2024, to January 2, 2025, Tyler Monson communicated via Snapchat with a 15-year-old victim who lived in Littleton, Colorado. During the conversation, Monson told the victim that he was 16 years old and lived in Colorado. Monson and the victim exchanged nude photos, and he sent the victim $2,000 via Venmo. They agreed to meet in person. Monson traveled from Nevada to Colorado for the purpose of sexual activity with the victim. While traveling back to Nevada with the victim, Monson sexually assaulted the victim multiple times.
Monson pleaded guilty to one count of transportation of a minor with the intent to engage in criminal sexual activity.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI, the Elko County Sheriff’s Office, and the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office, with assistance provided by the Winnemucca Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Megan Rachow prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse, launched in May 2006 by the Department of Justice. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to better locate, apprehend and prosecute individuals who exploit children via the internet, as well as to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
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Las Vegas Man Pleads Guilty to Unlawful Possession of Privately Made AR-15 Pattern PistolRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident who has multiple prior felony convictions pleaded guilty today to unlawful possession of an unserialized, privately made AR-15-pattern pistol. A privately made firearm without a serial number is sometimes called a “ghost gun.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about October 20, 2023, Noel Lynn Waters unlawfully possessed a loaded, privately made 5.56x45mm semi-automatic pistol incorporating an AR-15-pattern lower receiver. He further admitted that he pointed the firearm at another person and threatened he was going to “shoot everybody.”
Waters has multiple prior felony convictions in Los Angeles and Las Vegas. He was previously convicted of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person in Clark County, Nevada. Additionally, he was previously convicted of possession of controlled substance for sale; unlawful possession or use of tear gas; felon in possession of a firearm; possession of a controlled substance while armed with a firearm; and transportation, furnishing or sale of controlled substance, all in Los Angeles County. He is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
Waters pleaded guilty to one-count of possession of a firearm by a prohibited person. He faces a maximum statutory penalty of 15 years in prison. Sentencing is scheduled for January 14, 2026, before United States District Judge James C. Mahan. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Topper, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
The ATF and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig is prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about unlawful firearms activity should call ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), email [email protected] or submit an anonymous tip at www.reportit.com/.
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Justice Department Secures Agreement with Sunrise Hospital and Medical Center to Ensure Accessibility for Deaf or Hard of Hearing Individuals Under the Americans with Disabilities ActRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada secured an agreement with Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center, LLC, to ensure that patients and their companions who are deaf have appropriate auxiliary aids and services, including qualified in-person or video remote interpreting services. The new internal policies as per the agreement will be enforced in all 190 affiliated healthcare facilities across the United States.
“Every individual deserves the right to communicate effectively with their medical team, especially when assisting their child in an emergency room,” said Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “This settlement reflects the United States Attorney’s Office’s commitment to the civil rights of disabled individuals, specifically those who are deaf or hard of hearing to ensure they may participate meaningfully in their own health care without obstacles.”
The settlement agreement resolves a complaint under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) by a deaf father who accompanied his eight-year-old daughter during a Sunrise Hospital emergency room visit where the hospital denied him an American Sign Language interpreter in violation of the ADA. Instead, the father was forced to use an unreliable means of communication to attempt to relay and receive information from emergency room staff, including the doctor caring for his daughter. As a result, he did not understand the extent of his daughter’s condition, medication being administered, vital details about the discharge process and treatment plan. Consequently, the father and his daughter suffered unnecessary stress, fear, and confusion.
Under the terms of the agreement, Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center, LLC, will provide patients and companions who are deaf appropriate auxiliary aids and services including qualified in-person or video remote interpreting services. They will also train all patient-facing staff and employees on current ADA requirements, periodically submit reports regarding its compliance, and modify all policies and practices consistent with the ADA. Additionally, Sunrise Hospital & Medical Center, LLC, will pay $30,000 in monetary damages to the father, as well as $5,000 in civil penalties to the United States.
This case was handled by Assistant United States Attorney Ednin D. Martinez.
If you or someone you know has experienced possible violations of federal civil rights laws, please make a report at www.civilrights.justice.gov. For more information on the ADA, please call the department’s toll-free ADA Information Line at 800-514-0301 (TDD 800-514-0383) or visit www.ada.gov. ADA complaints may be filed online at http://www.ada.gov/complaint. If you believe you have been discriminated against based on disability, please submit a report www.civilrights.justice.gov.
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Reno Doctor Arrested and Indicted for Health Care FraudRead the Press Release
RENO – An OB-GYN in Reno made his initial court appearance today for allegedly defrauding health care benefit programs by submitting false claims for unnecessary gynecologic tests and surgical procedures, some resulting in serious medical complications.
According to court documents, Dr. Samuel R. Chacon was the owner of Women’s Health Center of Reno and previously held surgical privileges at St. Mary’s Regional Medical Center and Renown Regional Medical Center in Reno. As alleged in the indictment, from January 1, 2017 to November 22, 2022, Dr. Chacon submitted false claims to Medicaid, Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield Healthcare Solutions, Health Plan of Nevada, Molina Healthcare of Nevada, Silversummit Healthplan, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield of Nevada, Cigna Healthcare, and other health care benefit programs for procedures and tests that were not medically necessary, including hysterectomies, anterior and/or posterior repairs, enterocele repairs, vaginal vault suspensions, bladder sling procedures, urodynamic studies, physical therapy, and ultrasounds.
In furtherance of the alleged scheme, Dr. Chacon routinely falsified patients’ medical records to include symptoms and complaints that patients did not report, and he made false representations to patients about their diagnoses and need for gynecologic procedures and tests. Some of the unnecessary procedures are alleged to have resulted in serious bodily injury to his patients.
“FBI Las Vegas is determined to hold bad actors in healthcare accountable for exploiting our healthcare programs,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Those who commit illegal acts such as false claims and fraudulent services, prioritizing greed over the well-being of others, will face the full force of the law. The overwhelming fraud uncovered in this investigation reveals a blatant disregard for America's critical healthcare program, Medicaid. The FBI is committed to pursuing justice relentlessly on behalf of the victim patients and taxpayers, ensuring that anyone who abuses the healthcare system for personal gain will be held accountable.”
A grand jury returned an indictment charging Dr. Chacon with one-count of health care fraud and eight-counts of false statements related to health care matters. He was arrested today. A jury trial has been scheduled for November 18, 2025, before United States District Judge Anne R. Traum.
If convicted, Dr. Chacon faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison. Sentences are imposed by a federal district court judge based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
The FBI and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Andolyn Johnson is prosecuting the case.
If you believe that you were victimized by Dr. Samuel Chacon or that you have information pertinent to this investigation, please fill out this short form.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Third Defendant Pleads Guilty to Conspiring in Global Prize Notice Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
An Arizona woman pleaded guilty today for engaging in a prize notice fraud scheme that defrauded thousands of elderly consumers across the United States and abroad. Kimberly Stamps, 48, of Gilbert, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
According to court documents, Stamps was the owner and operator of a mass-mailing prize notice scheme that mailed millions of fraudulent prize notices. The prize notices led her victims to believe they had been individually selected to receive a large cash prize and would receive the prize if they paid a $20 to $50 fee. In reality, no victim ever received a large cash prize from Stamps or her co-conspirators. Instead, victims received a “report” describing sweepstakes opportunities or a trinket of minimal value. After victims responded to one fraudulent prize notice mailing, Stamps and her co-conspirators inundated them with additional fraudulent mailings. Stamps and her co-conspirators used the scheme to steal more than $15 million from victims, many of whom were elderly or vulnerable.
The fraud scheme operated from 2012 to February 2018, when the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) executed multiple search warrants and the Justice Department obtained a court order shutting down the fraudulent mail operation.
As part of her plea, Stamps admitted that she bought consumer mailing lists, chose the fraudulent prize notices, set the mailing schedule, opened P.O. Boxes to collect victim responses, coordinated with printers and translators, ordered cheap trinkets to mail as fulfillment, tracked victim responses, and opened bank accounts to receive victims’ payments.
Stamps also admitted that by operating the fraud scheme, she violated a U.S. Postal Service cease-and-desist agreement and consent order reached in 2012. That agreement and order had permanently barred Stamps from mailing fraudulent prize notices.
Stamps is the third and final defendant in the charged conspiracy to plead guilty. Her co-conspirators John Kyle Muller and Barbara Trickle pleaded guilty on April 12, 2024, and April 28, 2025, respectively.
The USPIS conducted the investigation. Trial Attorneys Carolyn Rice and Charles Dunn of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch prosecuted the case, with substantial assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada.
The department urges individuals to be on the lookout for fraudulent lottery, prize notification, sweepstakes, and psychic scams. If you receive a phone call, letter or email promising a large prize in exchange for a fee, do not respond. Fraudsters often will use official-sounding names or the names of real lotteries or sweepstakes or pretend to be a government agent purportedly helping to secure a prize.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has experienced financial fraud, experienced professionals are standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This Justice Department hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, can provide personalized support to callers by assessing the needs of the victim and identifying relevant next steps. Case managers will identify appropriate reporting agencies, provide information to callers to assist them in reporting, connect callers directly with inappropriate agencies and provide resources and referrals, on a case-by-case basis. Reporting is the first step. Reporting can help authorities identify those who commit fraud and reporting certain financial losses due to fraud as soon as possible can increase the likelihood of recovering losses. The hotline is open Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. ET. English, Spanish and other languages are available.
More information about the department’s efforts to help American seniors is available at its Elder Justice Initiative webpage at www.justice.gov/elderjustice. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) at www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Justice Department provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov.
Two Mexican Nationals with Prior Felony Convictions and Multiple Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Two Mexican nationals unlawfully residing in Las Vegas made their initial court appearances today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Alfredo Covarrubias-Jimenez, 39, and Victor Manuel Navarro-Quesada, 34, are both charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for October 6, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J Youchah.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Covarrubias-Jimenez and Navarro-Quesada are both citizens and nationals of Mexico and were both previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally.
On September 10, 2025, Covarrubias-Jimenez was remanded to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), from the Nevada Department of Corrections, based on an ICE detainer. ICE became aware Covarrubias-Jimenez was in Nevada after he was arrested by North Las Vegas Police for Possession of Controlled Substance, Trafficking Controlled Substance, and Own Possess Gun by Prohibited Person. On another occasion, ICE filed a detainer in California after Covarrubias-Jimenez was arrested by the San Bernardino Sheriff’s office on December 1, 2021, for Possess Purchase for Sale Narcotic Controlled Substance and Transport Sale Narcotic Controlled Substance. The California ICE detainer was not honored. Covarrubias-Jimenez had previously been deported five times, and he also has a prior felony conviction for Inflict Corporal Injury on a Spouse out of California.
On September 16, 2025, Navarro-Quesada was remanded to the custody of ICE, from the Nevada Department of Corrections, based on an ICE detainer. On February 6, 2025, ICE learned that Navarro-Quesada was arrested by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for Trafficking Controlled Substance and four counts of Possess to Sell Controlled Substance. Navarro-Quesada had previously been deported to Mexico on four occasions. Navarro-Quesada has a prior felony conviction from 2019 out of the District of Colorado for Illegal Reentry after Deportation, the same offense he is currently charged with.
If convicted, Covarrubias-Jimenez faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
If convicted, Navarro-Quesada faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Acting Director Jason Knight made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Las Vegas Woman Arrested and Charged with Threatening and Assaulting Flight CrewRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was arrested Tuesday and made her initial court appearance today for allegedly assaulting a flight attendant and intimidating other flight attendants during a flight to Las Vegas, Nevada.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made in court, on September 16, 2025, Ketty J. Dilone was a passenger aboard an American Airlines flight from Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, to Las Vegas, connecting through Charlotte, North Carolina. On the flight from Charlotte to Las Vegas, Dilone was walking down the aisle and yelling. She allegedly started to verbally threaten multiple flight attendants. Due to Dilone’s disruptive and threatening behavior, she had to be restrained in her seat with zip ties and duct tape. She allegedly kicked a flight attendant causing the flight attendant to fall. When the flight arrived at Las Vegas Harry Reid International Airport, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers responded and took Dilone into custody.
Dilone is charged with one-count of interference with a flight crew and one-count of assault by striking, beating, or wounding.
United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah scheduled a preliminary hearing for October 1, 2025.
If convicted, the maximum statutory penalty is 20 years of imprisonment. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
The FBI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Tina Snellings is prosecuting the case.
If you’ve been the victim of a crime committed aboard an aircraft or have witnessed one take place, report it to your flight crew, airport authority police, and the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or tips.fbi.gov.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Henderson Man Indicted for Illegal Smuggling and Distribution of Erectile Dysfunction Prescription Drugs Under Brand Names "Kinky Kong," "Kinky Pink," "Stif," Tbone," and "Ride"Read the Press Release
Note: A previous version of this release included a link to a form to report suspected criminal activity related to FDA-regulated products. This has been updated to direct the public to the FDA Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS) Public Dashboard.
LAS VEGAS – A Henderson, Nevada, resident made his initial appearance in court on September 10, 2025, to face charges for allegedly smuggling misbranded prescription drugs containing sildenafil and tadalafil, the active ingredients in FDA-approved prescription drugs Viagra and Cialis, into the United States. According to allegations in the indictment, David Ralph Webber then sold the drugs to smoke shops, convenience stores, and adult novelty stores, as well as directly to consumers through his website, under brand names “Kinky Kong,” “Kinky Pink,” “Stif,” “Tbone,” and “Ride.”
“Americans depend on the FDA to ensure that drugs are safe and accurately labeled,” said FDA Special Agent in Charge Robert M. Iwanicki of the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations Los Angeles Field Office. “Today’s announcement illustrates our ongoing emphasis on holding accountable people who circumvent federal regulations and jeopardize public health.”
A federal grand jury indicted Webber on July 30, 2025, with one count of introduction of a misbranded drug into interstate commerce, four counts of wholesale distribution of prescription drugs without a license, and seven counts of smuggling.
According to allegations contained in court documents and statements made in court, Webber owned and operated two Nevada companies: Passion Plus Enterprises Inc. and Whole Science Health. He was not a registered pharmaceutical manufacturer with the FDA, nor was he licensed to administer prescription drugs or as a wholesaler of prescription drugs.
As alleged, from at least 2018 to present, Webber purchased hundreds of thousands of capsules containing sildenafil and tadalafil—the active ingredients in Viagra and Cialis—from manufacturers in India. Once Webber received the products, he allegedly distributed them in Nevada and throughout the southwestern United States, including to third-party stores and directly to consumers. According to allegations contained in the indictment, these products have potentially harmful effects if not properly administered by a licensed practitioner. This is particularly true for persons on heart and/or blood-thinning medications.
As part of the scheme, Webber allegedly paid a packaging company to list false ingredients and false claims that the drugs were “100% Natural” and did not require a prescription. It is alleged that many, if not most, consumers were not aware they were taking prescription medicines containing the same active ingredients as Viagra and Cialis.
A jury trial is set for November 18, 2025, before United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Robert M. Iwanicki of the FDA’s Office of Criminal Investigations Los Angeles Field Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FDA and United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Jean Ripley is prosecuting the case.
If you or someone you know has taken these products and/or suffered adverse health effects as a result of these products, please contact investigators at https://www.fda.gov/drugs/fdas-adverse-event-reporting-system-faers/fda-adverse-event-reporting-system-faers-public-dashboard.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Jury Convicts Montana Man of Murder-For-Hire Conspiracy, Tampering with A Witness by Killing, Stalking Resulting in Death, and Firearm and Drug ChargesRead the Press Release
RENO – A federal jury convicted a Missoula, Montana, man on September 12, 2025, for killing two people, and firearm and marijuana trafficking charges.
“Last week’s verdict underscores our commitment to holding accountable the defendant who carried out violent criminal acts resulting in the tragic loss of two lives,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “I commend the Assistant United States Attorneys who are prosecuting this case, the staff professionals and Victim Witness Unit, and our law enforcement partners for their tireless work to bringing the defendant to justice.”
“This conviction reflects the seriousness of the crimes committed and the devastating loss of lives,” said Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “The FBI, along with our dedicated local, state, and federal law enforcement partners, stands resolute in its mission to crush violent crime and will hold accountable those involved in such acts."
Cory Spurlock, Will Larsen, and others were involved in an illegal, large scale marijuana distribution business based in Mound House, Nevada. During a marijuana transaction in Mound House, Nevada, on June 19, 2020, Jered Stefansky went missing. Stefansky had traveled to Mound House from Redding to pick up a large amount of cash. The last call from Stefansky’s cell phone was to a number associated with Spurlock and Spurlock became a person of interest in the investigation into Stefansky’s disappearance. Stefansky’s mother never gave up on trying to find her son and appeared on a podcast in late September of 2020 where she discussed her son’s disappearance and the people her son was involved with in the marijuana conspiracy, including Larsen and Spurlock.
According to testimony, Spurlock listened to the podcast and believed Larsen was a rat and needed to die. Spurlock promised a co-conspirator payment for assistance in killing Larsen. Between October 2020 and November 8, 2020, Spurlock traveled to Nevada and California with his co-conspirators. Spurlock and his co-conspirators stalked Larsen and his wife, Yesenia Larsen, throughout the Reno and Carson City area and followed them to just outside Bridgeport, California. The Larsens were shot and stabbed to death on November 8, 2020, their bodies left on the side of US Highway 395. Spurlock was also convicted of robbery for stealing the money Will Larsen had in his wallet. Stefansky’s skeletal remains were found in March 2021, at the Rye Patch Recreation area in Pershing County, Nevada.
Following a four-week trial, the jury returned guilty verdicts in a day-and-a-half. Spurlock was found guilty of one-count each of conspiracy to possess with the intent to distribute and to distribute over 1000 kilograms of marijuana; murder-for-hire conspiracy; tampering with a witness by killing; interference with commerce by robbery; causing death through use of a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence; and two-counts of stalking resulting in death.
United States District Judge Miranda Du scheduled sentencing for December 16, 2025. Spurlock faces the maximum statutory penalty of life imprisonment. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Christopher S. Delzotto for the FBI Las Vegas Division, Deputy Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis for DEA’s Los Angeles Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Robert Topper, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
The FBI, Mono County Sheriff’s Office, DEA, ATF, Lyon County Sheriff’s Office, Carson City Sheriff’s Office, and the Pershing County Sheriff’s Office investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Megan Rachow and Penelope Brady are prosecuting the case.
This case is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level drug trafficking organizations and other criminal networks that threaten the United States using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach that leverages the strengths of federal, state, and local enforcement agencies. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Mexican National with Prior Felony Convictions Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced yesterday by United States Chief District Judge Andrew Gordan to 13 months and one day in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed on three prior occasions from the country.
According to court documents and statements made during court proceedings, on December 1, 2023, Jose Ricardo Lopez Munoz was found in the United States after he was previously deported to Mexico on November 13, 1995, February 26, 1997, and August 1, 2013.
On November 28, 2023, Lopez Munoz was arrested by state law enforcement in Clark County, Nevada, for False Statement to Obstruct Public Officer. Lopez Munoz has previous felony convictions for Menacing out of the District Court, El Paso County, Colorado, in 2002, and for Challenge to Fight with use of a Deadly Weapon and with the Intent to Promote Further or Assist a Criminal Gang out of the Eighth Judicial District Court, Clark County, Nevada, in 2007. After serving over six years in prison he was deported for a third time in 2013.
Lopez Munoz pleaded guilty to one-count of Deported Alien Found in the United States. After serving his prison sentence he will be deported to Mexico a fourth time.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Acting Director Jason Knight made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
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Las Vegas Man Sentenced to over 10 Years in Prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine and FentanylRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced today by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to 130 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release for selling approximately 100 fentanyl pills and over six pounds of methamphetamine. The government recommended a prison sentence of 151 months.
According to court documents, between January 10, 2023, and February 28, 2023, Richard Gleason conspired with others to sell methamphetamine and fentanyl in Las Vegas. As part of the conspiracy, he sold approximately 10.5 grams of fentanyl and 2,724.6 grams of actual methamphetamine.
In June 2025, Gleason pleaded guilty to one-count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance (Methamphetamine and Fentanyl).
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Deputy Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis for DEA’s Los Angeles Division made the announcement.
The DEA investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
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North Las Vegas Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Methamphetamine TraffickingRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A North Las Vegas resident was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for distributing and possessing with the intent to distribute more than 30 pounds of methamphetamine into the Las Vegas area. The government recommended a prison sentence of 135 months.
According to court documents, Efrain Macias-Amaral illegally entered the United States. Between June and July of 2024, Macias-Amaral distributed and possessed with the intent to distribute over 15 kilograms of methamphetamine. On June 11, 2024, Macias-Amaral sold an individual more than 2,000 grams of methamphetamine. On July 3, 2024, Macias-Amaral sold the individual an additional 2,000 grams of methamphetamine. On July 11, 2024, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle driven by Macias-Amaral. During a search of the vehicle, officers located a suitcase in the truck with plastic baggies which contained 11,026 grams of methamphetamine. When he was stopped by police, he provided officers a Mexican identification card bearing the name of Juan Rea Estrada.
In April 2025, Macias-Amaral pleaded guilty to two-counts of distribution of a controlled substance—Methamphetamine and one-count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance—Methamphetamine.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Deputy Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis for DEA’s Los Angeles Division made the announcement.
The case was investigated by DEA and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Edward Penetar prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National with Felony Drug Conviction Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made her initial court appearance yesterday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Maria Vega-Villalba, 45, is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 23, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J Albregts.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Vega-Villalba is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on May 16, 2024, and reentered the United States illegally. Fifteen months after Vega-Villalba was deported, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested her in a targeted operation on August 21, 2025.
On January 23, 2023, the Superior Court of Arizona, Maricopa County, convicted Vega-Villalba of Attempt Sale or Transportation for Sale of a Narcotic Drug (Fentanyl). Upon release from prison, an Immigration Judge on May 14, 2024, ordered Vega-Villalba removed. Two days later, she was deported to Mexico.
If convicted, Vega-Villalba faces the maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a one-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Acting Field Office Director Jason Knight made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Mexican National with Felony Conviction Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made his initial court appearance on Monday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Felipe De Jesus Jauregui-Acosta, 43, is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for September 22, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal indictment and statements made during court proceedings, Jauregui-Acosta is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on October 5, 2008, and reentered the United States illegally. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) recently identified Jauregui-Acosta after he was arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police on May 4, 2025, for Resist Public Officer with Deadly Weapon not Firearm, Assault Deadly Weapon on First Responder, Battery Deadly Weapon on First Responder, and Use Posses Drug Paraphernalia.
On July 3, 2025, Jauregui-Acosta was convicted of Resisting Public Officer with Use of a Dangerous Weapon.
If convicted, Jauregui-Acosta faces the maximum statutory penalty of two years in prison, a one-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Acting Field Office Director Jason Knight made the announcement.
The ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
Members of the public can report crimes and suspicious activity by dialing 866-DHS-2-ICE (866-347-2423) or completing the online tip form.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Las Vegas Woman Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Selling Fentanyl Pills Resulting in DeathRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas woman was sentenced today by United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II to 10 years in prison followed by four years of supervised release for selling pills containing fentanyl, resulting in a victim’s death. The government recommended a prison sentence of 144 months.
From the fall of 2019 to January 2020, Danielle Partington was the victim’s pill supplier, and she supplied the victim with pills on multiple dates. On January 20, 2020, the victim called and texted Partington to purchase pills. Partington coordinated with a co-conspirator to deliver 80 pills containing fentanyl to the victim. On January 23, 2020, the victim overdosed on the fentanyl sold to him by Partington and her co-conspirator.
On March 7, 2025, Partington pleaded guilty to one-count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
Illicit fentanyl is a synthetic opioid up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine. Just two milligrams, about the size of a few grains of salt, can be lethal. It is the leading cause of death for Americans ages 18 to 45, and it kills at an unprecedented rate.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Deputy Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis for DEA’s Los Angeles Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA. Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua Brister and Edward Penetar prosecuted the case.
DEA has launched the public awareness campaign, One Pill Can Kill, to educate the public on dangers of counterfeit pills and how to keep Americans safe. For more information, visit DEA.gov/onepill.
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Nevada Man Pleads Guilty to Promoting Fraudulent Tax Avoidance SchemeRead the Press Release
A Nevada man pleaded guilty today to advising clients to commit tax evasion.
The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Michael J. Moore, of Las Vegas, operated a tax and accounting business known as X Tax Pros. From 2015 and through April 2025, Moore promoted a fraudulent tax avoidance scheme called the “Special Tax Shelter Strategy.” Moore promised clients that if they paid him certain “fees,” he could prepare a tax return that eliminated the clients’ taxes owed to the IRS and, in most cases, create a large tax refund. Moore charged the clients tens of thousands of dollars in fees, which the clients paid from the refunds they received from the IRS.
To carry out the “Special Tax Shelter Strategy” Moore falsified entries on the clients’ tax returns. In many cases, he did this by falsely reporting that the client had sustained a large loss from one or more business entities that Moore controlled. In most cases Moore’s entities carried on no business, did not file tax returns, did not sustain or report any losses to the IRS, and did not report the clients as partners. For some clients, Moore falsified entries relating to cost of goods sold and royalty expenses.
In total, Moore caused a tax loss to the United States of more than $3.5 million.
Moore is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 8 and faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Patrick Burns of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
Nevada Man Pleads Guilty to Promoting Fraudulent Tax Avoidance SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Nevada man pleaded guilty today to advising clients to commit tax evasion.
The following is according to court documents and statements made in court: Michael J. Moore, of Las Vegas, operated a tax and accounting business known as X Tax Pros. From 2015 and through April 2025, Moore promoted a fraudulent tax avoidance scheme called the “Special Tax Shelter Strategy.” Moore promised clients that if they paid him certain “fees,” he could prepare a tax return that eliminated the clients’ taxes owed to the IRS and, in most cases, create a large tax refund. Moore charged the clients tens of thousands of dollars in fees, which the clients paid from the refunds they received from the IRS.
To carry out the “Special Tax Shelter Strategy,” Moore falsified entries on the clients’ tax returns. In many cases, he did this by falsely reporting that the client had sustained a large loss from one or more business entities that Moore controlled. In most cases Moore’s entities carried on no business, did not file tax returns, did not sustain or report any losses to the IRS, and did not report the clients as partners. For some clients, Moore falsified entries relating to cost of goods sold and royalty expenses.
In total, Moore caused a tax loss to the United States of more than $3.5 million.
Moore is scheduled to be sentenced on Dec. 8, 2025, and he faces a maximum penalty of five years in prison. He also faces a period of supervised release, restitution, and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
IRS Criminal Investigation is investigating the case.
Trial Attorney Patrick Burns of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Assistant United States Attorney Tony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
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