District of Nevada
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Las Vegas Man Sentenced to over Six Years in Prison for Role in Fentanyl Distribution ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge Anne R. Traum to 80 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for his role in a conspiracy to distribute fentanyl. The government recommended a prison sentence of 110 months.
According to court documents, from February 2023 to March 2023, Michael Anthony Rivas distributed and sold fentanyl as part of a conspiracy in the Las Vegas area. He and co-defendant Crystal Fawn Hoag sold approximately 693 grams of fentanyl (approximately 8,500 fentanyl pills).
During the execution of a search warrant at Hoag and Rivas’ joint residence, law enforcement recovered a black Smith & Wesson firearm, a Black Xd Springfield Arms firearm, and a black and tan Taurus firearm. Additionally, approximately 67 grams of counterfeit M30 pills containing suspected fentanyl and approximately 113 grams of methamphetamine were also recovered.
Both Hoag and Rivas were disqualified from owning or possessing a firearm based on their prior felony convictions.
Fentanyl presents a significant and growing danger to our community and our children. Fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is 80-100 times stronger than morphine, and only a few milligrams of this chemical compound equivalent to a few grains of table salt are enough to cause a fatal overdose in adults or children.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, Deputy Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis for DEA’s Los Angeles Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Nathaniel Holland for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA and FBI. Assistant United States Attorneys Brenna Bush and Steven Rose prosecuted the case.
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Salvadoran Man with Three Prior Felony Convictions Sentenced to 15 Months in Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Salvadoran national was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Andrew Gordan to 15 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country.
According to court documents and statements made in court, David Cristales-Machado was found by immigration officials in Clark County, Nevada, after he was arrested and convicted of carry a concealed weapon without a permit in October 2024, and a second time in January 2025. Cristales-Machado was first deported to El Salvador in 2014 after serving a prison sentence for three felony convictions: two for attempt possession of a stolen vehicle, and one for attempt burglary.
Cristales-Machado pleaded guilty to one count of Deported Alien Found in the United States.
After Cristales-Machado serves his sentence, he will be deported to El Salvador for a second time.
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 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 47 Years in Prison for Sexually Exploiting A Minor and Possessing Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced today to 47 years in prison followed by a lifetime term of supervised release for sexually exploiting a toddler and possessing the child sexual abuse material (CSAM) of several minors.
Damian Amalfitano pleaded guilty to one-count of sexual exploitation of children and one-count of possession of child pornography. In addition to imprisonment, United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II ordered Amalfitano to pay $2,000 to the Amy, Vicky, and Andy Child Pornography Victim Assistance (AVAA) fund. Under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, Amalfitano must register as a sex offender and keep the registration current where he resides, where he is an employee, and where he is a student.
“Today’s sentence reflects the defendant’s deplorable behavior and the seriousness of this crime against a vulnerable child who the defendant sexually abused,” said Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The collection of child sexual abuse material showed that the defendant sexually abused the victim for multiple consecutive days and recorded the abuse.”
"Damian Amalfitano posed a significant threat to children as demonstrated by his repeated perverse and sick exploitation,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Nathaniel Holland for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Even in the darkest corners of the internet, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will exert every effort to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. Today's sentencing reflects our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for our most vulnerable victims."
Amalfitano admitted that beginning at an unknown time, but no later than September 22, 2010, and continuing to at least October 30, 2021, Amalfitano sexually abused a two-year-old child by engaging in sexually explicit conduct with said child for the purpose of producing CSAM and possessed CSAM of several other minors.
A forensic examination of his electronic devices found that he had a total of approximately 350 images and six videos of CSAM on two digital devices, depicting CSAM as young as toddlers. He also admitted that he engaged in sexually explicit conduct with three other minor victims.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Afroza Yeasmin prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department to combat the growing epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse. Led by the United States Attorneys’ Offices and CEOS, Project Safe Childhood marshals federal, state, and local resources to locate, apprehend, and prosecute individuals who sexually exploit children, and to identify and rescue victims. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, 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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Mexican National with Three Prior Deportations and Multiple Felony Convictions Sentenced to More Than Three Years in Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge Gloria Navarro to 40 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on three prior occasions.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Salvador Gonzalez-Sanchez was found by immigration officials in Nevada after he was previously deported in 2011, 2017, and 2023. Gonzalez-Sanchez has four previous felony convictions: illegal alien in possession of a firearm from 2010, deported alien found unlawfully in the United States from 2016, assault with firearm on person from 2021, and conspiracy to violate uniform controlled substance act from 2023.
Gonzalez-Sanchez pleaded guilty to one count of Deported Alien Found in the United States. This was his second such conviction, as he was convicted in 2016 for the same crime.
After Gonzalez-Sanchez serves his sentence, he will be deported to Mexico for a fourth time.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City 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 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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Nevada Man Charged in $500,830 COVID-19 Unemployment Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man made his initial appearance in court yesterday for allegedly defrauding the Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation (DETR) and the California Employment Development Department (EDD) in a scheme to steal $500,830 in benefits meant to assist unemployed individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic.
A federal grand jury indicted Craig Renard Gibson with five counts of bank fraud, one count of illegal transactions with access devices, and four counts of aggravated identity theft. United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts scheduled a jury trial to begin October 20, 2025 before United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware.
“An important part of the mission of the Office of Inspector General is to investigate allegations of fraud involving the unemployment insurance program. This collaborative investigative effort with our local, state, and federal partners reaffirms our commitment to investigate these types of allegations,” said Quentin Heiden, Special Agent-in-Charge, Western Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General.
According to allegations contained in court documents, from about August 26, 2020, to about December 9, 2020, Gibson and others possessed debit cards issued in the names of other individuals that contained unemployment insurance benefits provided by the Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation (DETR) and the California Employment Development Department (EDD). After obtaining the debit cards, Gibson and others illegally withdrew over $500,000 in funds from these cards.
Gibson faces a maximum statutory penalty of 162 years’ imprisonment and a fine of $5,250,000. 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 Quentin Heiden for the Western Region, Department of Labor-OIG made the announcement.
The Department of Labor-OIG and Department of Homeland Security-OIG investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Mina Chang is prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 1-866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at: www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
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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Mexican National with Prior Drug Trafficking Convictions Sentenced to over 13 Months in Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced yesterday by United States District Judge Gloria Navarro to 13 months and one day in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being twice removed from the country. The defendant has a prior drug trafficking conviction, where he was sentenced to 10 to 25 years in prison.
According to court documents and statements made during court proceedings, on December 13, 2024, Gutierrez-Chavarria was arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police for 3 counts Sell/Transport Controlled Substance and Trafficking Controlled Substance. Gutierrez-Chavarria was released on bail and on February 20, 2025, Gutierrez-Chavarria was arrested by ICE. Gutierrez-Chavarria was previously deported on April 5, 2022, and again on September 6, 2022. Gutierrez-Chavarria was deported the first time after spending 16 years in prison on a 2007 felony drug trafficking conviction.
Gutierrez-Chavarria pleaded guilty to one-count of Deported Alien Found in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City 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 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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Nevada Man Sentenced for over $11M COVID-19 Relief Fraud and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — A Nevada man was sentenced today to over 15 years in prison and five years of supervised release for fraudulently obtaining more than $11 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and then laundering the funds through real estate transactions, gambling activity, and luxury purchases. The defendant was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $11,793,064.15, forfeiture in the amount of $11,231,186.52, and to forfeit two vehicles and five properties.
“This defendant stole more than $11 million in taxpayer funds that he used to finance luxury purchases and gambling,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Prosecuting schemes like this is critical to protecting the contributions of hard-working Americans, preserving confidence in government relief programs, and ensuring that aid reaches those who truly need it. This sentence demonstrates the Criminal Division’s continuing commitment to protecting the public’s money from thieves and fraudsters.”
“The consequences of the defendant’s PPP loan fraud scheme have caught up with him and now he will be incarcerated for exploiting more than $11.2 million from a taxpayer-funded program,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Thanks to the diligent work of our law enforcement partners, the defendant is being held accountable for defrauding the government.”
“This lengthy sentence shows how seriously the American government takes PPP loan fraud,” said Special Agent in Charge Carissa Messick of IRS Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Phoenix Field Office. “This loan program was created to support small businesses and their employees during a once in a lifetime pandemic. When Mr. Dezfooli fraudulently obtained these loans, he not only stole from the Small Business Administration, but also from American taxpayers to the tune of $11.2 million. This sentencing is a testament to IRS-CI’s dedication to protecting American taxpayers and ensuring the integrity of our tax system.”
“Today’s sentencing holds accountable and brings to justice a fraudster who stole millions of taxpayer dollars intended to help small business owners,” said Special Agent in Charge Jon Ellwanger of the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Western Region. “We are proud to have worked with our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to achieve this result.”
“Mr. Dezfooli falsified loan applications to fraudulently obtain PPP loan proceeds that he used to enrich himself to the detriment of legitimate business struggling during the pandemic,” said Special Agent in Charge Ryan Korner of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG). “The defendant’s actions not only defrauded the PPP loan program but also disadvantaged business owners who were actually entitled to the benefits. FDIC OIG is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to protect the Nation’s Financial System and hold accountable those individuals, like Mr. Dezfooli, who steal benefits designated to help those in need.”
According to evidence presented at trial, Meelad Dezfooli, of Henderson, Nevada, submitted three fraudulent applications on behalf of entities he controlled, obtaining more than $11 million. Dezfooli supported these applications with false documents, including fabricated tax records and a utility bill, and grossly inflated the number of employees and payroll expenses of each entity.
After receiving the PPP funds, Dezfooli laundered the money by purchasing approximately 25 properties in Nevada, often using the alias “James Dez” or a fictitious entity called “Holdings Trust.” Even after he was indicted, Dezfooli continued laundering money, including selling property purchased with the illegally obtained PPP funds. He also used criminal proceeds to fund his personal investment account, buy luxury cars, and gamble extensively throughout Las Vegas. As part of this investigation, five homes were seized by law enforcement.
On Sept. 4, 2024, a jury found Dezfooli guilty of three counts of bank fraud, three counts of money laundering, and four counts of conducting transactions using criminally derived property. One of those violations related to a transaction that Dezfooli conducted after he had already been charged.
The IRS-CI, FRB-OIG, FDIC-OIG, and SBA-OIG investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys D. Zachary Adams and Taylor G. Stout of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel R. Schiess for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case. Legal Assistant Alexa Stiles and Paralegal Holly Butler of MLARS provided substantial assistance throughout the investigation and trial.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form
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Man Sentenced for over $11M COVID-19 Relief Fraud and Money Laundering SchemeRead the Press Release
A Nevada man was sentenced today to over 15 years in prison and five years of supervised release for fraudulently obtaining more than $11 million in Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans guaranteed by the Small Business Administration (SBA) under the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act and then laundering the funds through real estate transactions, gambling activity, and luxury purchases. The defendant was also ordered to pay restitution in the amount of $11,793,064.15, forfeiture in the amount of $11,231,186.52, and to forfeit two vehicles and five properties.
“This defendant stole more than $11 million in taxpayer funds that he used to finance luxury purchases and gambling,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “Prosecuting schemes like this is critical to protecting the contributions of hard-working Americans, preserving confidence in government relief programs, and ensuring that aid reaches those who truly need it. This sentence demonstrates the Criminal Division’s continuing commitment to protecting the public’s money from thieves and fraudsters.”
“The consequences of the defendant’s PPP loan fraud scheme have caught up with him and now he will be incarcerated for exploiting more than $11.2 million from a taxpayer-funded program,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Thanks to the diligent work of our law enforcement partners, the defendant is being held accountable for defrauding the government.”
“This lengthy sentence shows how seriously the American government takes PPP loan fraud,” said Special Agent in Charge Carissa Messick of IRS Criminal Investigation’s (IRS-CI) Phoenix Field Office. “This loan program was created to support small businesses and their employees during a once in a lifetime pandemic. When Mr. Dezfooli fraudulently obtained these loans, he not only stole from the Small Business Administration, but also from American taxpayers to the tune of $11.2 million. This sentencing is a testament to IRS-CI’s dedication to protecting American taxpayers and ensuring the integrity of our tax system.”
“Today’s sentencing holds accountable and brings to justice a fraudster who stole millions of taxpayer dollars intended to help small business owners,” said Special Agent in Charge Jon Ellwanger of the Office of Inspector General for the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and Consumer Financial Protection Bureau Western Region. “We are proud to have worked with our federal law enforcement partners and the U.S. Attorney’s Office to achieve this result.”
“Mr. Dezfooli falsified loan applications to fraudulently obtain PPP loan proceeds that he used to enrich himself to the detriment of legitimate business struggling during the pandemic,” said Special Agent in Charge Ryan Korner of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC-OIG). “The defendant’s actions not only defrauded the PPP loan program but also disadvantaged business owners who were actually entitled to the benefits. FDIC OIG is committed to working alongside our law enforcement partners to protect the Nation’s Financial System and hold accountable those individuals, like Mr. Dezfooli, who steal benefits designated to help those in need.”
According to evidence presented at trial, Meelad Dezfooli, of Henderson, Nevada, submitted three fraudulent applications on behalf of entities he controlled, obtaining more than $11 million. Dezfooli supported these applications with false documents, including fabricated tax records and a utility bill, and grossly inflated the number of employees and payroll expenses of each entity.
After receiving the PPP funds, Dezfooli laundered the money by purchasing approximately 25 properties in Nevada, often using the alias “James Dez” or a fictitious entity called “Holdings Trust.” Even after he was indicted, Dezfooli continued laundering money, including selling property purchased with the illegally obtained PPP funds. He also used criminal proceeds to fund his personal investment account, buy luxury cars, and gamble extensively throughout Las Vegas. As part of this investigation, five homes were seized by law enforcement.
On Sept. 4, 2024, a jury found Dezfooli guilty of three counts of bank fraud, three counts of money laundering, and four counts of conducting transactions using criminally derived property. One of those violations related to a transaction that Dezfooli conducted after he had already been charged.
The IRS-CI, FRB-OIG, FDIC-OIG, and SBA-OIG investigated the case.
Trial Attorneys D. Zachary Adams and Taylor G. Stout of the Criminal Division’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section (MLARS) and Assistant U.S. Attorney Daniel R. Schiess for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case. Legal Assistant Alexa Stiles and Paralegal Holly Butler of MLARS provided substantial assistance throughout the investigation and trial.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Justice Department’s National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline at 866-720-5721 or via the NCDF Web Complaint Form at www.justice.gov/disaster-fraud/ncdf-disaster-complaint-form.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah StatementRead the Press Release
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada released the following statement:
“Last week, Tom Artiom Alexandrovich was arrested in a Nevada Internet Crimes Against Children joint operation; and he was booked into the Henderson Detention Center. This important multi-agency operation targeted child sex predators who preyed upon the most vulnerable members of our communities. As a result of the operation, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office is handling the prosecution.”
Mexican National with Prior Violent Felony Convictions Sentenced to Six 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 Richard F. Boulware II to 72 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being twice removed from the country. The defendant had prior violent convictions, including multiple robberies with a butcher knife and shooting three people.
According to court documents and statements made during court proceedings, on March 16, 2021, Otoniel Lugo-Campos was found in the United States after he was previously deported on December 19, 2000, and October 21, 2014.
In 2000, Lugo-Campos was deported for the first time following a felony drug conviction and multiple probation violations. He returned to the United States and, in 2008, robbed five convenience stores around Las Vegas using a large butcher knife. In two of the robberies, the store clerks working the cash registers were cut by him. After serving his prison sentence, Lugo-Campos was deported for a second time in 2014.
Lugo-Campos again unlawfully returned to the United States. On March 8, 2021, Lugo-Campos entered his former girlfriend’s apartment and shot her, her new boyfriend, and a neighbor when one of the bullets went through the wall of the apartment. Two months prior to shooting his former girlfriend, he beat her with a pipe requiring staples to her head to close the wound. While he was in state custody, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) agents located him and determined he was not lawfully in the country.
Lugo-Campos pleaded guilty to one-count of Deported Alien Found in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City 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 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 Indicted for Armed Robbery of an Armored TruckRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who was arrested in Texas made his initial court appearance on Thursday to face charges in connection with an alleged armed robbery of an armored truck outside of a bank in Las Vegas.
Devonte Devon Jackson is charged with one-count of interference with commerce by robbery and one-count of brandishing a firearm during a crime of violence. United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah scheduled a jury trial to begin on October 20, 2025.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 16, 2025, Jackson allegedly brandished a black handgun and stole approximately $327,620 from an armored truck outside of a bank. On July 29, 2025, Jackson was arrested by Texas State Troopers in Centerville, Texas. He was extradited to Las Vegas to face federal charges related to the armed robbery.
If convicted, Jackson faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison for interference with commerce by robbery and a mandatory consecutive sentence of seven years for brandishing a firearm. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeremy Schwartz 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 Attorney Tina M. 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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Honduran National with Two Prior Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Honduran national made his initial court appearance today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Rigoberto Osorio-Merlo, 49, is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for December 4, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Osorio-Merlo is a citizen and national of Honduras who was previously deported and removed from the United States on January 15, 2009, and November 14, 2018, and reentered the United States illegally.
On July 22, 2024, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned that Osorio-Merlo had been arrested by officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for Duty to Stop at Scene of Accident, Destroy/Conceal Evidence, and Reckless Driving Resulting in Death or Substantial Bodily Harm. A year later, on July 30, 2025, Osorio-Merlo was remanded to ICE custody from the Nevada Department of Corrections, based on an immigration detainer. Osorio-Merlo has two DUI convictions, one in 2011 and a second in 2016. Based on Osorio-Merlo’s July 22, 2024, arrest, he was convicted of Reckless Driving Resulting in Substantial Bodily Harm or Death.
If convicted, Osorio-Merlo 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 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.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Las Vegas Woman Sentenced to Prison for Stealing Firearms from Federal Firearms LicenseeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident who has a prior felony conviction was sentenced today by United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey to 30 months in prison followed by two years of supervised release for her role in stealing 38 firearms from a Federal Firearms Licensee business in Overton, Nevada, then illegally selling at least 20 of those firearms. The government recommended a prison sentence of 108 months.
Alexis Breanna Worrell pleaded guilty to one-count of theft of firearms from a licensee and one-count of possession of stolen firearms. Co-defendant Dennis James Caputo, of Las Vegas, was sentenced to six years in prison after pleading guilty to one-count of theft of firearms from a licensee and one-count of possession of stolen firearms.
According to court documents and statements made in court, on July 24, 2023, Worrell, Caputo, and another individual drove from Las Vegas to Overton. After the FFL business was closed, Caputo climbed onto the roof and used tools to open a hole in the roof of the building. He directed Worrell to wait for his call at a gas and convenience store. Caputo reached down through the ceiling and pulled up an AK-47 pattern semiautomatic rifle. He then dropped down inside the store, silenced the motion-sensor alarm, and began to pull various firearms from displays. He placed firearms on a bed sheet that he had brought with him and into a rifle case he found in the store. He also filled two five-gallon buckets with other firearms. Worrell admitted that she helped Caputo put the rifle and other firearms into the cab of the vehicle.
From July 25, 2023, to about September 5, 2023, Worrell and Caputo sold and transferred some of the stolen firearms to other individuals. To date, nine of those stolen firearms have been recovered by law enforcement from five prohibited persons who were engaged in criminal activities in the Las Vegas area. Four of the firearms remain outstanding.
Worrell has previously been convicted of trafficking methamphetamine in Clark County, Nevada. Caputo has previously been convicted of felony drug crimes in Douglas County, Clackamas County, and Coos County, Oregon; and burglary in Cowlitz County, Washington.
Acting United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig prosecuted the case.
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Two Foreign Nationals with Prior Felony Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Mexican and Honduran nationals unlawfully residing in Las Vegas made their initial court appearances Monday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Jose Luis Ruiz-Gutierrez, 39, and Samir Adrian Hernandez-Padilla, 39, are both charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for August 18, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Ruiz-Gutierrez, a citizen and national of Mexico, and Hernandez-Padilla, a citizen and national of Honduras, were both previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally.
On July 23, 2025, Ruiz-Gutierrez was remanded to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), from the Clark County Detention Center, based on an ICE detainer after he had been arrested by officers from the North Las Vegas Police Department for four counts Sex Assault Against Child Less Than 16 and Lewdness by Person Over 18 with Child Less Than 14. Ruiz-Gutierrez had previously been deported three times on or about February 15, 2011, May 3, 2011, and December 24, 2013. Ruiz-Gutierrez has prior felony convictions for drug trafficking and deported alien found in the United States, the same offense he is currently charged with.
On July 18, 2025, Hernandez-Padilla was remanded to the custody of ICE, from the Nevada Department of Corrections, based on an ICE detainer. On August 21, 2020, ICE learned that Hernandez-Padilla was arrested by the Nevada Department of Wildlife and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for Watercraft Driving Under the Influence Resulting in Death. Hernandez-Padilla had previously been deported to Honduras on or about December 12, 2013.
If convicted, Ruiz-Gutierrez 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, Hernandez-Padilla faces a maximum statutory penalty of two years in prison, 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 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.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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U.S. Attorney's Office Forfeited and Returned More Than $37 Million to Crime VictimsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada announced today that, from October 1, 2024, to July 16, 2025, more than $37 million was forfeited through asset forfeiture actions and returned to victims of crime. Funds forfeited and deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund may be used to compensate victims and restore losses caused by criminal conduct.
A total of $37,236,606.37 was forfeited and of this amount:
- In December 2024, a victim received $3,443,286.03.
- In April 2025, the Small Business Administration received $531,308.46 of the fraudulently obtained Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) loans.
- In May 2025, the Small Business Administration received $1,068,123.94 of the fraudulently obtained PPP loans.
- In July 2025, a victim received $32,193,787.94.
“The Asset Forfeiture and Financial Litigation Units of the U.S. Attorney’s Office, in coordination with our law enforcement partners and the Department of Justice’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section, worked diligently to forfeit these funds and return them to victims,” said U.S. Attorney Chattah. “Our office remains committed to holding offenders financially accountable and to restoring victims. I commend the exceptional efforts of our Asset Forfeiture Unit and professional staff in pursuing justice and upholding the rule of law.”
“The successful return of these funds is due to the coordinated efforts of the FBI, local law enforcement, and the US Attorney's office,” said Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “This serves as an important reminder of our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for victims and their families. Forfeiting ill-gotten gains removes financial resources from criminals and serves as a powerful tool to restore victims. It is highly recommended to report scams and frauds promptly.”
“IRS Criminal Investigation’s Phoenix Field Office is proud to see our special agents’ hard work result in the recovery of millions in stolen COVID relief funds and real, tangible justice for victims of other financial crimes,” said Special Agent in Charge Carissa Messick, IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Phoenix Field Office. “Financial crime can be devastating to victims. That’s why it’s crucial for our agency to continue uncovering such crimes through the leveraging of our financial expertise and investigative techniques. IRS-CI exists to protect American taxpayers and ensure the integrity of our tax system, and these figures today are just a portion of the amazing results we are seeing throughout the nation.”
The PPP is one of two programs that was developed through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security (CARES) Act. PPP provides funding to businesses through loans for payroll costs, interest on mortgages, rent and utilities. PPP allows the interest and principal on loans to be forgiven if the business spends proceeds on certain expense items within a designated time and uses a certain percentage of the loan on payroll expenses.
Anyone with information about allegations of attempted fraud involving COVID-19 can report it by calling the Department of Justice's National Center for Disaster Fraud (NCDF) Hotline via the NCDF Web Complaint Form.
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Five Defendants Sentenced in Connection with Operating One of the Largest Illegal Television Show Streaming Services in the United StatesRead the Press Release
Yesterday, the final judgments were issued for five Nevada men, including a citizen of Germany, who were sentenced on May 29 and 30 to terms of up to 84 months in prison for running Jetflicks, one of the largest illegal television streaming services in the United States.
“The defendants operated Jetflicks, an illegal paid streaming service that made available more television episodes than any licensed streaming service on the market,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This scheme generated millions of dollars in criminal profits, and hurt thousands of U.S. companies and individuals who owned the copyrights to these shows but never received a penny in compensation from Jetflicks. The sentences issued in this case demonstrate the Criminal Division’s commitment to protect American creativity and to ensure that large-scale infringers are brought to justice and punished for their crimes.”
“Digital crimes are not victimless crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The copyright owners lost millions of dollars as a result of the illegal paid streaming service. These sentences underscore our joint commitment with the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and FBI to deter and disrupt intellectual property crime via thorough investigation and prosecution of those who violate federal intellectual property laws.”
“By building and running one of the largest unauthorized streaming services in the U.S., these individuals not only stole from content creators and legitimate streaming services, they undermined the integrity of our economy and the rule of law," said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “These sentencings are a reminder that illegal actions have consequences. The FBI and our partners are unwavering in our commitment to protect intellectual property rights and hold criminals accountable.”
After a 14-day trial that ended in June 2024, a federal jury in the District of Nevada convicted Kristopher Lee Dallmann, 42; Peter H. Huber, 67; Jared Edward Jaurequi, also known as Jared Edwards, 44; Felipe Garcia, 43; and Douglas M. Courson, 65, all of Las Vegas, of conspiracy to commit copyright infringement. The jury also convicted Dallmann of criminal copyright infringement by distribution, criminal copyright infringement by public performance, and money laundering. Subsequently, the court sentenced Dallmann to 84 months in prison; Huber to 18 months in prison; Jaurequi to time served (almost 5 months in prison), 180 days of home confinement, and 500 hours of community service; Garcia to three years probation with 49 days in prison and 1000 hours of community service; and Courson to three years probation with 48 days in prison.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the defendants ran a site called Jetflicks, an online subscription-based service headquartered in Las Vegas, that permitted users to stream and at times download copyrighted television programs without the permission of the relevant copyright owners. At one point, Jetflicks claimed to have 183,285 different television episodes, significantly more than Netflix, Hulu, Vudu, Amazon Prime, or any other licensed streaming service. This was the largest internet piracy case — as measured by the estimated total infringement amount and total number of infringements — ever to go to trial as well as the first illegal streaming case ever to go to trial. The defendants’ conduct harmed every major copyright owner of a television program in the United States. Copyright owners lost millions of dollars from the operation.
Evidence presented at trial showed that the defendants used automated software and computer scripts that ran constantly to scour sites around the world hosting pirated content. The software and scripts would download, process, and store illegal content, and then make it immediately available on servers in the United States and Canada to tens of thousands of paid subscribers located throughout the United States for streaming and/or downloading. The defendants often delivered episodes to subscribers the day after the shows originally aired on television. The service was not only available to subscribers over the internet but specifically designed to work on many different types of devices, platforms, and software.
Each defendant performed at least one and often multiple roles at Jetflicks including management, computer programming and coding, design of the website, applications, and customer interface, technical assistance, content acquisition, subscriptions and revenue, and customer support.
Dallmann reaped millions of dollars in profit from the operation. The government conservatively estimated the value of the copyright infringement in the case at $37.5 million. This included the approximate retail value of the defendants’ reproduction of infringing works to create the Jetflicks inventory as well as the approximate retail value of the streams of pirated television episodes that the defendants provided to subscribers.
The five defendants sentenced were among eight defendants originally indicted in the Eastern District of Virginia in connection with operating Jetflicks. In addition to the defendants just sentenced in Nevada, defendant Darryl Polo previously pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of Virginia to four counts of criminal copyright infringement and one count of money laundering for his involvement with Jetflicks as well as an equally large illegal streaming site he ran called iStreamItAll. Similarly, defendant Luis Villarino also previously pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of Virginia to conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement. In May 2021, a judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Virginia sentenced Polo and Villarino to, respectively, 57 months in prison and 12 months and a day in prison.
After the case was transferred to the District of Nevada for trial, defendant Yoany Vaillant was tried separately from the other five remaining defendants. In November 2024, after an eight-day trial, a federal jury convicted Vaillant of conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement. Vaillant is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 4.
The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the FBI Las Vegas Field Office.
Senior Counsel Matthew A. Lamberti, Trial Attorney Michael Christin, and Acting Deputy Chief Christopher S. Merriam of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Oliva and Edward G. Veronda for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case. The CCIPS Cybercrime Lab, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Canada provided significant assistance.
Five Defendants Sentenced in Connection with Operating One of the Largest Illegal Television Show Streaming Services in the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS - Yesterday, the final judgments were issued for five Nevada men, including a citizen of Germany, who were sentenced on May 29 and 30 to terms of up to 84 months in prison for running Jetflicks, one of the largest illegal television streaming services in the United States.
“The defendants operated Jetflicks, an illegal paid streaming service that made available more television episodes than any licensed streaming service on the market,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “This scheme generated millions of dollars in criminal profits, and hurt thousands of U.S. companies and individuals who owned the copyrights to these shows but never received a penny in compensation from Jetflicks. The sentences issued in this case demonstrate the Criminal Division’s commitment to protect American creativity and to ensure that large-scale infringers are brought to justice and punished for their crimes.”
“Digital crimes are not victimless crimes,” said U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The copyright owners lost millions of dollars as a result of the illegal paid streaming service. These sentences underscore our joint commitment with the Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section and FBI to deter and disrupt intellectual property crime via thorough investigation and prosecution of those who violate federal intellectual property laws.”
“By building and running one of the largest unauthorized streaming services in the U.S., these individuals not only stole from content creators and legitimate streaming services, they undermined the integrity of our economy and the rule of law," said Assistant Director Jose A. Perez of the FBI Criminal Investigative Division. “These sentencings are a reminder that illegal actions have consequences. The FBI and our partners are unwavering in our commitment to protect intellectual property rights and hold criminals accountable.”
"Every act of digital piracy has a real-life victim," said Steven J. Jensen, Assistant Director in Charge of the FBI Washington Field Office. "The results of this investigation — the largest of its kind to go to trial — demonstrate that the FBI and our partners will pursue thieves who infringe upon intellectual property rights and steal profits from hardworking creators, copyright owners, and licensed streaming services."
"These sentences are the result of the robust collaboration between the FBI and our law enforcement partners in the endeavor to safeguard intellectual property rights and ensure accountability for criminal activities," said Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division.
After a 14-day trial that ended in June 2024, a federal jury in the District of Nevada convicted Kristopher Lee Dallmann, 42; Peter H. Huber, 67; Jared Edward Jaurequi, also known as Jared Edwards, 44; Felipe Garcia, 43; and Douglas M. Courson, 65, all of Las Vegas, of conspiracy to commit copyright infringement. The jury also convicted Dallmann of criminal copyright infringement by distribution, criminal copyright infringement by public performance, and money laundering. Subsequently, the court sentenced Dallmann to 84 months in prison; Huber to 18 months in prison; Jaurequi to time served (almost 5 months in prison), 180 days of home confinement, and 500 hours of community service; Garcia to three years' probation with 49 days in prison and 1000 hours of community service; and Courson to three years' probation with 48 days in prison.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, the defendants ran a site called Jetflicks, an online subscription-based service headquartered in Las Vegas, that permitted users to stream and at times download copyrighted television programs without the permission of the relevant copyright owners. At one point, Jetflicks claimed to have 183,285 different television episodes, significantly more than Netflix, Hulu, Vudu, Amazon Prime, or any other licensed streaming service. This was the largest internet piracy case — as measured by the estimated total infringement amount and total number of infringements — ever to go to trial as well as the first illegal streaming case ever to go to trial. The defendants’ conduct harmed every major copyright owner of a television program in the United States. Copyright owners lost millions of dollars from the operation.
Evidence presented at trial showed that the defendants used automated software and computer scripts that ran constantly to scour sites around the world hosting pirated content. The software and scripts would download, process, and store illegal content, and then make it immediately available on servers in the United States and Canada to tens of thousands of paid subscribers located throughout the United States for streaming and/or downloading. The defendants often delivered episodes to subscribers the day after the shows originally aired on television. The service was not only available to subscribers over the internet but specifically designed to work on many different types of devices, platforms, and software.
Each defendant performed at least one and often multiple roles at Jetflicks including management, computer programming and coding, design of the website, applications, and customer interface, technical assistance, content acquisition, subscriptions and revenue, and customer support.
Dallmann reaped millions of dollars in profit from the operation. The government conservatively estimated the value of the copyright infringement in the case at $37.5 million. This included the approximate retail value of the defendants’ reproduction of infringing works to create the Jetflicks inventory as well as the approximate retail value of the streams of pirated television episodes that the defendants provided to subscribers.
The five defendants sentenced were among eight defendants originally indicted in the Eastern District of Virginia in connection with operating Jetflicks. In addition to the defendants just sentenced in Nevada, defendant Darryl Polo previously pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of Virginia to four counts of criminal copyright infringement and one count of money laundering for his involvement with Jetflicks as well as an equally large illegal streaming site he ran called iStreamItAll. Similarly, defendant Luis Villarino also previously pleaded guilty in the Eastern District of Virginia to conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement. In May 2021, a judge in the U.S. District Court for the District of Virginia sentenced Polo and Villarino to, respectively, 57 months in prison and 12 months and a day in prison.
After the case was transferred to the District of Nevada for trial, defendant Yoany Vaillant was tried separately from the other five remaining defendants. In November 2024, after an eight-day trial, a federal jury convicted Vaillant of conspiracy to commit criminal copyright infringement. Vaillant is scheduled to be sentenced on Sept. 4.
The FBI Washington Field Office investigated the case, with assistance from the FBI Las Vegas Field Office.
Senior Counsel Matthew A. Lamberti, Trial Attorney Michael Christin, and Acting Deputy Chief Christopher S. Merriam of the Criminal Division’s Computer Crime and Intellectual Property Section (CCIPS) and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jessica Oliva and Edward G. Veronda for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case. The CCIPS Cybercrime Lab, the Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police in Canada provided significant assistance.
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Three Foreign Nationals with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Two Mexican nationals and a Guatemalan national 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.
Artemio Valencia-Rodriguez, 47; Uvalfre Mariano Cazares-Guillen, 33; and Ismael Artemio Hidalgo-Gomez 27, are all charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for all three defendants are scheduled for August 4, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Valencia-Rodriguez and Cazares-Guillen, both citizens and nationals of Mexico, and Hidalgo Gomez, a citizen and national of Guatemala, were all previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally.
On July 1, 2025, Valencia-Rodriguez was remanded to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), from the Clark County Detention Center. Valencia-Rodriguez was arrested by officers from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department on February 8, 2024, for two counts Lewdness by Person Over 18 with Child Less Than 14 and Kidnapping of Minor. Valencia-Rodriguez had previously been deported to Mexico on January 9, 2003, August 12, 2009, and August 17, 2009. Valencia-Rodriguez has two prior felony convictions for Possession of a Controlled Substance, and a felony conviction for Convicted Person Possess Firearm.
On July 2, 2025, Cazares-Guillen was remanded to the custody of ICE from the Clark County Detention Center after he had been arrested by officers from Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for Use/Posses Drug Paraphernalia and Unlawful Act Imitation Controlled Substance. Cazares-Guillen had previously been deported to Mexico on or about August 18, 2018, after being convicted of Burglary While in Possession of Firearm and two counts of Robbery.
On July 3, 2025, Hidalgo-Gomez was remanded to the custody of ICE, from the Clark County Detention Center after he had been arrested by officers from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for Battery Domestic Violence. Hidalgo-Gomez had previously been deported to Guatemala on or about October 6, 2017, November 2, 2017, and February 4, 2021. Hidalgo-Gomez was convicted on January 19, 2021, of the same offense he is currently charged with in the United States District Court for the District of Arizona.
If convicted, Valencia-Rodriguez and Hidalgo-Gomez both 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.
If convicted, Cazares-Guillen 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.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City 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.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Nevada Nurse Practitioner Pleads Guilty to Fraudulent Medicare Wound Care BillingRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas nurse practitioner pleaded guilty today to conspiring to fraudulently bill Medicare for amniotic wound allografts for patients that were medically unreasonable and unnecessary in exchange for illegal health care kickbacks.
Mary Huntly, 67, was charged with one-count of conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive health care kickbacks. United States District Judge James C. Mahan scheduled sentencing for October 15, 2025.
According to court documents and admissions made in court by Huntly, she applied medically unnecessary allografts to Medicare beneficiaries that were procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes. Huntly admitted that, from September 2022 through April 2024, her wound care company fraudulently billed Medicare approximately $14,333,550, and Medicare paid approximately $9,105,563 based on those false claims.
“The defendant applied medically unnecessary allografts for patients and received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent Medicare claims,” said United States Attorney Chattah for the District of Nevada. “We are committed to working with our partners at the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS to pursue and hold criminal actors accountable for preying on vulnerable citizens and stealing from health care programs.”
“Medicare and Medicaid, crucial components of our nation's health care system, are funded by a limited pool of resources,” said Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Mary Huntly admitted to exploiting the system and taking advantage of America’s most vulnerable populations. She was a trusted healthcare provider, focusing on wound care, and her abuse is significant. The FBI and our federal partners will continue to bring rapacious healthcare professionals like Huntly to justice.”
“Health care professionals who aim to enrich themselves by performing medically unnecessary procedures undermine the integrity of Federal health care programs and expose their patients to potential harm,” said Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank with the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG). “HHS-OIG, working closely with our law enforcement partners, will continue to aggressively pursue those who commit health care fraud.”
At sentencing, Huntly faces a maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Assistant Attorney General Matthew R. Galeotti of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division; United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada; Special Agent in Charge Amir Ehsaei for the FBI Las Vegas Division; Deputy Inspector General for Investigations Christian J. Schrank of the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General; and Acting Special Agent in Charge John E. Helsing for the Department of Defense Office of Inspector General, Defense Criminal Investigative Service (DCIS), Western Field Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI, HHS-OIG, and DCIS. The case is being prosecuted by Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva of the District of Nevada and Trial Attorneys Monica Cooper of the Texas Strike Force and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force.
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Force Program. Since March 2007, this program, currently comprised of nine strike forces operating in 27 federal districts, has charged more than 5,800 defendants who collectively have billed federal health care programs and private insurers more than $30 billion. In addition, the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, working in conjunction with HHS-OIG, are taking steps to hold providers accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes. More information can be found at www.justice.gov/criminal-fraud/health-care-fraud-unit.
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Mexican National with Five Prior Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made his initial court appearance today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Marlo Alejandro Valdovinos-Guerra, 32, is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A jury trial is scheduled for September 8, 2025, before United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva.
According to allegations contained in the criminal indictment and statements made during court proceedings, Valdovinos-Guerra is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on December 15, 2012, March 7, 2019, April 22, 2019, March 25, 2021, and December 2, 2024, and reentered the United States illegally within a month of his most recent deportation.
In 2024, Valdovinos-Guerra was convicted of inflict corporal injury on spouse, cohabitant, and sentenced to two years of custody. In 2025, he pleaded guilty to attempt malicious destruction of property for discharging a firearm at a nightclub.
If convicted, Valdovinos-Guerra 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.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City 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 Man Indicted for Fraudulently Selling Goods as Native American-MadeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident made his initial appearance in court on Tuesday for allegedly misrepresenting and selling fake goods as authentic Native American-made products in violation of the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Jose Skywolf Martinez, 61, with one count of violating the Indian Arts and Crafts Act of 1990. United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah scheduled a jury trial to begin on September 8, 2025.
According to allegations contained in the indictment and statements made in court, beginning on or about December 7, 2023, and continuing to about December 10, 2024, Martinez offered or displayed for sale, goods that he falsely suggested were Indian produced by an Indian or Indian tribe.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada; Douglas Ault, Assistant Director, Office of Law Enforcement, United States Fish and Wildlife Service; and Meridith Stanton, Director, Indian Arts and Crafts Board, United States Department of Interior made the announcement.
“The Indian Arts and Crafts Board (IACB) administers and enforces the Indian Arts and Crafts Act (IACA), a truth-in-marketing law,” said IACB Director Stanton. “The IACA is intended to rid the Indian arts and crafts marketplace of fakes and counterfeits to protect the economic livelihoods and cultural heritage of Indian artists, as well as to protect consumers. Authentic Indian art and craftwork is an important tool for passing down cultural traditions and artistic skills from one generation to the next. Counterfeit Indian art sold by Mr. Martinez undercuts Indian economies, culture, and traditions. The indictment of Mr. Martinez should send a strong message to those engaged in the sale of counterfeit Indian art that they will be found and held accountable.”
The Indian Arts and Crafts Act prohibits the offer or display for sale, or the sale of any good in a manner that falsely suggests that it is Indian produced, an Indian product, or the product of a particular Indian and Indian tribe. The law is designed to prevent products from being marketed as “Indian made,” when the products are not, in fact, made by Indians. It covers all Indian and Indian-style traditional and contemporary arts and crafts produced after 1935, and broadly applies to the marketing of arts and crafts by any person in the United States. The IACA provides critical economic benefits for Native American cultural development by recognizing that forgery and fraudulent arts and crafts diminish the livelihood of Native American artists and craftspeople by lowering both market prices and standards.
If convicted, Martinez faces a maximum statutory penalty of not more than five years in prison, a $250,000 fine, or both. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. Assistant United States Attorney Skyler Pearson is prosecuting this 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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Mexican National with Five Prior Deportations 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 James C. Mahan to 24 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on five prior occasions.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Santos Esparza-Torres was found by immigration officials, after he was previously deported on or about October 29, 2005, September 18, 2008, September 24, 2019, January 17, 2020, and April 16, 2020. Esparza-Torres came into ICE custody in 2024, while serving a state sentence on a conviction for conspiracy to violate uniform controlled substances act. Esparza-Torres will be eligible for parole on his state drug conviction in March of 2026, and will then serve his 24-month Federal sentence.
Esparza-Torres pleaded guilty to one count of Deported Alien Found in the United States. This was his second such conviction, as he was convicted in 2020 in the Southern District of California for the same crime.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City 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 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 Participates in Record-Setting National Health Care Fraud TakedownRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Today, United States Attorney Sigal Chattah announced criminal charges against two defendants in the District of Nevada in connection with the Justice Department’s 2025 National Health Care Fraud Takedown, which resulted in criminal charges against 324 defendants, including 96 doctors, nurse practitioners, pharmacists, and other licensed medical professionals, in 50 federal districts and 12 State Attorneys General’s Offices across the United States, for their alleged participation in various health care fraud schemes involving over $14.6 billion in intended loss. The Takedown involved federal and state law enforcement agencies across the country and represents an unprecedented effort to combat health care fraud schemes that exploit patients and taxpayers.
“This record-setting Health Care Fraud Takedown delivers justice to criminal actors who prey upon our most vulnerable citizens and steal from hardworking American taxpayers,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “Make no mistake – this administration will not tolerate criminals who line their pockets with taxpayer dollars while endangering the health and safety of our communities.”
“As alleged, the defendants – a registered nurse and a nurse practitioner – applied medically unnecessary allografts and received millions in illegal kickbacks from the fraudulent claims to Medicare and other health care benefit programs,” said United States Attorney Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Together with the FBI and the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General, we will pursue and hold criminals accountable for their involvement in health care fraud schemes.”
According to court documents, the following individuals were charged in the District of Nevada:
- Paulino Gonzalez, 40, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was charged by information with conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive kickbacks for participating in a $94 million scheme to order, recommend, and apply amniotic wound allografts in return for illegal kickbacks. As alleged in the information, Gonzalez, a registered nurse, received approximately $7,391,584 in illegal kickbacks from an allograft distributor in exchange for recommending the purchasing and ordering of certain allografts billed to Medicare. A wound care company paid Gonzalez to apply allografts, some of which were medically unnecessary, to Medicare beneficiaries. Between October 2021 and April 2024, the wound care company billed Medicare over $94 million for allografts applied by Gonzalez and others. Medicare paid over $54 million based on those false and fraudulent claims. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Monica Cooper of the Texas Strike Force and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva of the District of Nevada.
- Mary Huntly, 67, of Las Vegas, Nevada, was charged by information with conspiracy to defraud the United States and pay and receive health care kickbacks for participating in a scheme to receive illegal kickbacks in exchange for purchasing and ordering amniotic wound allografts billed to Medicare. As alleged in the information, Huntly, a nurse practitioner, applied medically unnecessary allografts to Medicare beneficiaries that were procured through illegal kickbacks and bribes. From September 2022 through April 2024, Huntly’s wound care company fraudulently billed Medicare approximately $14,333,550, and Medicare paid approximately $9,105,563 based on those claims. The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Monica Cooper of the Texas Strike Force and Shane Butland of the National Rapid Response Strike Force, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Jessica Oliva of the District of Nevada.
Demonstrating the significant return on investment that results from health care fraud enforcement efforts, the government seized over $245 million in cash, luxury vehicles, cryptocurrency, and other assets as part of the coordinated enforcement efforts. As part of the whole-of-government approach to combating health care fraud announced today, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS) also announced that it successfully prevented over $4 billion from being paid in response to false and fraudulent claims and that it suspended or revoked the billing privileges of 205 providers in the months leading up to the Takedown. Civil charges against 20 defendants for $14.2 million in alleged fraud, as well as civil settlements with 106 defendants totaling $34.3 million, were also announced as part of the Takedown.
Today’s Takedown was led and coordinated by the Health Care Fraud Unit of the Department of Justice Criminal Division’s Fraud Section and its core partners from U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, the Department of Health and Human Services Office of Inspector General (HHS-OIG), the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). The cases were investigated by agents from HHS-OIG, FBI, DEA, and other federal and state law enforcement agencies. The cases are being prosecuted by Health Care Fraud Strike Force teams from the Criminal Division’s Fraud Section, 50 U.S. Attorneys’ Offices nationwide, and 12 State Attorneys General Offices.
“As part of making healthcare accessible and affordable to all Americans, HHS will aggressively work with our law enforcement partners to eliminate the pervasive health care fraud that bedeviled this agency under the former administration and drove up costs,” said Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. of the Department of Health and Human Services.
“The Criminal Division is intensely committed to rooting out health care fraud schemes and prosecuting the criminals who perpetrate them because these schemes: (1) often result in physical patient harm through medically unnecessary treatments or failure to provide the correct treatments; (2) contribute to our nationwide opioid epidemic and exacerbate controlled substance addiction; and (3) do all of that while stealing money hardworking Americans contribute to pay for the care of their elders and other vulnerable citizens,” said Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division. “The Division’s Health Care Fraud Unit and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices stand united with our law enforcement partners in this fight, and we will continue to use every tool at our disposal to protect the integrity of our health care programs for the American people.”
“The scale of today’s Takedown is unprecedented, and so is the harm we’re confronting. Individuals who attempt to steal from the federal health care system and put vulnerable patients at risk will be held accountable,” said Acting Inspector General Juliet T. Hodgkins of HHS-OIG. “Our agents at HHS-OIG work relentlessly to detect, investigate, and dismantle these fraud schemes. We are proud to stand with our law enforcement partners in protecting taxpayer dollars and safeguarding patient care.”
“Health care fraud drains critical resources from programs intended to help people who truly need medical care,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Today’s announcement demonstrates our commitment to pursuing those who exploit the system for personal gain. With more than $13 billion in fraud uncovered, this is the largest takedown for this initiative to date. Together, the FBI and our law enforcement partners will continue to hold those accountable who steal from the American people and undermine our health care systems.”
“Today's unprecedented enforcement action demonstrates that CMS and our federal partners are united in our mission to protect the integrity of Medicare and Medicaid by crushing waste, fraud, and abuse," said CMS Administrator Dr. Mehmet Oz. "Every dollar we prevent from going to fraudsters is a dollar that stays in the system to serve legitimate beneficiaries. Through advanced data analytics, real-time monitoring, and swift administrative action, CMS is leading the fight to protect Medicare, Medicaid, and the trust Americans place in these vital programs. We're not waiting for fraud to happen—we're stopping it before it starts."
The Fraud Section leads the Criminal Division’s efforts to combat health care fraud through the Health Care Fraud Strike Forces. Prior to the charges announced as part of today’s nationwide Takedown and since its inception in March 2007, the Health Care Fraud Strike Force, which operates in 27 districts, charged more than 5,400 defendants who collectively billed Medicare, Medicaid, and private health insurers more than $27 billion.
The following materials related to today’s announcement are available on the Health Care Fraud Unit’s website through these links:
• Graphics and Resources
• Case Descriptions
• Court Documents
An information 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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Canadian National Extradited for Mailing Fraudulent Prize NoticesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — A Canadian national accused of operating fraudulent prize notice schemes was extradited to the United States and made his initial appearance in Las Vegas federal court on June 18, the Department of Justice and U.S. Postal Inspection Service announced today.
Patrick Fraser, 44, of Alberta, Canada, will face federal charges of conspiracy and mail fraud. Fraser was arrested on June 14, 2023, by Canadian authorities pursuant to a U.S. extradition request and was surrendered to the United States this month. A detention hearing was held on June 23, and Fraser was ordered detained pending trial.
According to the indictment, the defendant conspired with others to operate fraud schemes through which he mailed fraudulent prize notifications to individuals in the United States and in other countries. The prize notifications falsely represented that the victims had been specifically chosen to receive a large cash prize, typically over $1 million, and would receive the prize upon payment of a small free. Many of the victims were elderly and vulnerable.
“The Justice Department is committed to prosecuting and pursuing those who perpetrate fraud schemes targeting America’s seniors,” said Assistant Attorney General Brett Shumate of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “I thank Canada for assisting in extraditing this individual to face charges here in the United States. The Justice Department and U.S. law enforcement partners will continue to work closely with law enforcement partners across the globe to bring to justice criminals who attempt to defraud U.S. victims from outside the United States.”
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office will continue to work with the Consumer Protection Branch and our law enforcement partners in the United States and the world to identify and pursue transnational criminals who prey on older Americans,” said U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Through our Elder Justice Initiative, Assistant U.S. Attorneys and professional staff are combating elder financial exploitation and fraud. This extradition is another example of the outstanding collaboration between federal law enforcement and international partners.”
“Postal inspectors protect the vulnerable. If you use fake prize offers to scam others, we’ll find you—and you will be held accountable,” said Eric Shen, U.S. Postal Inspector in Charge.
Fraser is charged in a nine-count indictment filed in the U.S. District Court for the District of Las Vegas. If convicted, Fraser faces a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison per count. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt.
Senior Trial Attorney Ann Entwistle and Trial Attorney Charles B. Dunn of the Justice Department’s Consumer Protection Branch and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case. USPIS investigated the case. The Justice Department is grateful to the Vancouver Police Department, as well as the Department of Justice Canada's International Assistance Group, who provided assistance through official requests. The Office of International Affairs of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division accomplished the extradition of Fraser from Canada.
The Justice Department continues to investigate and bring charges in other similar matters. 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 appropriate 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. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Consumer complaints may be filed with the 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.
For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its fraud enforcement efforts, visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch.
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U.S. Attorney's Office and FBI Recommit Efforts to Protect Elder Americans from Fraud and Other AbuseRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – The month of June is World Elder Abuse Awareness Month, and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada and the FBI Las Vegas Division are reinvigorating its efforts to protect older citizens from fraudulent and other criminal schemes that cost the United States billions of dollars and threaten to victimize over 100,000 elder Americans each year.
“The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to protect our seniors from fraudulent schemes targeting their hearts and bank accounts,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “We will continue to work with our partners at the FBI and other partner agencies to investigate and prosecute financial exploitation crimes and bring criminals to justice.”
“It is essential that we educate the public, specifically our seniors, about the devastating effects of elder fraud schemes,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafik Mattar for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “These schemes are critical to protecting them and their hard-earned money. The far-reaching consequences of these elaborate schemes can decimate the life savings of elderly individuals. The FBI works with our local and federal partners to ensure that our seniors, their caregivers, families, and friends know the signs to look for to keep Americans safe from falling victim to these deceitful criminals.”
Romance Fraud
United States v. Aurora Phelps. A 21-count superseding indictment charged Aurora Phelps, who has residences in Las Vegas and Guadalajara, Mexico, for allegedly luring older men she met through online dating services and stealing their monies for her personal benefit. In September 2023, a grand jury indicted Phelps with seven counts of wire fraud; three counts of mail fraud; six counts of bank fraud; three counts of identity theft; one count of kidnapping; and one count of kidnapping resulting in death. Phelps is currently in custody in Mexico.
An indictment is merely an allegation. All defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
National Elder Fraud Hotline
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 appropriate 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 older Americans is available at its Elder Justice Initiative webpage, which can be found at elderjustice.gov. For more information about the Consumer Protection Branch and its enforcement efforts, visit www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints can be filed with the 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, at www.ovc.gov.
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Mexican National with Three Prior Deportations and Two Prior Felony Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made his initial court appearance today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Jaime Eduardo Gonzalez-Camacho, 29, is charged with one-count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for July 3, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Gonzalez-Camacho is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on November 2, 2017, November 10, 2017, and June 9, 2020, and reentered the United States illegally.
On April 23, 2023, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned that Gonzalez-Camacho had been arrested by officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for three-counts drug trafficking, three-counts sell transport-controlled substance, one-count possess to sell controlled substance, and one-count conspiracy to violate uniform controlled substances act. On June 17, 2025, after serving a 26-to-72-month sentence in State prison, Gonzalez-Camacho was remanded to ICE custody from the Nevada Department of Corrections, based on an immigration detainer. Gonzalez-Camacho has two prior felony convictions for drug trafficking.
If convicted, Gonzalez-Camacho 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.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City 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.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Las Vegas Man Convicted of Receipt and Possession of Child Pornography Following Multiple Prior Child Pornography ConvictionsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – After a one-day bench trial, a Las Vegas man was found guilty on Monday for one-count of receipt of child pornography and one-count of possession of child pornography. As a result, he faces at least 15 years in federal custody.
According to court documents and the evidence presented at trial, on June 12, 2023, Leonard Shove was found in possession of a cell phone that contained multiple images and videos which constitute child pornography. Shove was on federal supervised release at the time of the offense, and in accordance with the terms of his release, the U.S. Probation Office conducted a search of his possessions and discovered the cellular device in his backpack. The FBI subsequently took possession of the cellular device and continued the investigation.
United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva presided over the bench trial on June 16, 2025. Shove was convicted of one-count of receipt of child pornography and one-count of possession of child pornography. He had multiple prior convictions related to the possession and receipt of child pornography.
Shove is set to be sentenced on September 22, 2025. As a result of his conduct, and his prior convictions, he faces a mandatory minimum of 15 years in prison and statutory maximum of 40 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafik Mattar for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
The FBI investigated the case with assistance from the U.S. Probation Office. Assistant United States Attorneys Jean Ripley and Daniel Schiess prosecuted the case. The case was initially indicted by Trial Attorney Supriya Prasad.
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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Six Defendants Indicted for Methamphetamine Trafficking Conspiracy and Gun CrimesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A 13-count indictment was unsealed on June 11, 2025, charging five men and one woman for their alleged roles in a conspiracy to distribute large amounts of methamphetamine and gun offenses.
Alex Gonzalez, also known as “Luis Carlos Caloca-Castenada;” Aaron Wolski; Richard Allen Williams, also known as “Steve Watley;” Shane Kunkle; Charles Wade McCall; and Maria Paola Ortiz-Sanchez are each charged with one-count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine. Additionally, Wolski is charged with one-count of engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license, and five-counts of distribution of methamphetamine. Kunkle is charged with one-count of engaging in the business of dealing in firearms without a license, two-counts of felon in possession of a firearm, and seven-counts of distribution of methamphetamine. Williams is charged with two-counts of distribution of methamphetamine. Gonzalez is charged with three-counts of distribution of methamphetamine. Ortiz-Sanchez is charged with one-count of distribution of methamphetamine. McCall is charged with one-count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine
According to allegations contained in the indictment, from about June 2024, and continuing to June 10, 2025, the defendants conspired with each other to distribute 50 grams or more of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. As alleged, from about February 14, 2025, and continuing to May 20, 2025, Wolski and Kunkle, not being a licensed dealer, engaged in the business of dealing firearms. Additionally, Kunkle allegedly possessed firearms despite having prior felony convictions in Clark County, Nevada; Ector County, Texas; and the Western District of Texas. He is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
A jury trial is scheduled for August 11, 2025, before United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro.
If convicted, they each face up to life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, Acting Special Agent in Charge Rafik Mattar for the FBI Las Vegas Division, and Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Buenaventura, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI, ATF, and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Joshua Brister and Tina Snellings 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.
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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Mexican National with Two Prior Deportations Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Drug Trafficking of FentanylRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national who twice illegally reentered the United States after previously being removed from the country was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 10 years in prison followed by five years of supervised release for his role in the trafficking of fentanyl to Nevada, Colorado, and California.
Marco Antonio Quezada-Ramirez is a citizen and national of Mexico and he pleaded guilty to one-count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance.
According to court documents, Marco Antonio Quezada-Ramirez admitted that beginning on a date unknown and continuing up to on or about September 19, 2023, there was an agreement between him and his co-defendants to distribute fentanyl in the United States. As part of the agreement, Quezada-Ramirez admitted that on June 8, 2023, he a sold approximately 600 fentanyl pills, and on July 12, 2023, he sold approximately 500 fentanyl pills. On July 31, 2023, Quezada-Ramirez received a shipment of approximately 30,000 fentanyl pills that was intended for resale. Law enforcement recovered the 30,000 fentanyl pills during a traffic stop in Las Vegas along with cocaine and heroin.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Deputy Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis for the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Los Angeles Division, which oversees Las Vegas, made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Melanee Smith prosecuted the case.
This effort is part of an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Forces (OCDETF) operation. OCDETF identifies, disrupts, and dismantles the highest-level criminal organizations that threaten the United States, using a prosecutor-led, intelligence-driven, multi-agency approach. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
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Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Selling Ghost Guns, Stolen Guns, Machinegun Conversion Devices, and CocaineRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident who pleaded guilty to unlawfully selling ghost guns, stolen guns, large capacity magazines, machinegun conversion devices, and cocaine in Las Vegas and North Las Vegas was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to three years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, from April 24, 2023, to August 3, 2024, Richard Edwin Sanchez engaged in the business of dealing in firearms without a Federal Firearms License by selling 17 firearms, including .223, .40, and 5.56 caliber firearms, 9mm firearms, and a 12-gauge shotgun. Of these firearms, 10 were Glock semi-automatic firearms capable of being converted into fully automatic weapons using machinegun conversion devices provided by Sanchez. In addition, he sold 21 machinegun conversion devices. Of the Glock pistols, nine were sold with large capacity magazines, two were stolen, and two others were associated with at least five shootings in the Las Vegas and North Las Vegas area. Two other firearms sold had either no serial number or an obliterated serial number. Additionally, Sanchez sold a total of about 435 grams of cocaine.
Sanchez pleaded guilty to one-count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license, one-count of distribution of cocaine, and one-count of possession or transfer of a machine gun.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Alex Buenaventura, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the ATF; and the United States Attorney’s Office prosecuted the case.
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Violent Offender Sentenced to Seven Years in Prison for Drug TraffickingRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A serial offender with a violent criminal history, including attacking women, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Miranda M. Du to 84 months in prison followed by four years of supervised release for possession of methamphetamine with intent to distribute.
“Public safety is at the forefront of ATF’s mission,” said Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Buenaventura, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). “Protecting the public from violent offenders is our duty as law enforcement. The criminal background of the defendant in this case is astounding. Today’s sentencing ensures that a repeat offender will be taken off the streets. The Las Vegas community is now a safer place.”
Anthony Chrysanthis, Deputy Special Agent in Charge of the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Los Angeles Division, which oversees Las Vegas, said, “The methamphetamine epidemic continues to threaten the health and safety of Americans. Today’s sentencing serves as a stern warning to drug distributors: When you unleash deadly poison in our communities, we will track you down and ensure you face the full force of the law.”
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, on or about September 12, 2021, Damien Patillo, 41, of Las Vegas, possessed 16 grams of pure methamphetamine with intent to distribute. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
Patillo’s prior convictions includes brutally attacking six different women, 38 convictions, and 10 domestic violence convictions.
Following a four-day trial in January 2025, a jury convicted Patillo of one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, Acting Special Agent in Charge Alex Buenaventura for ATF’s San Francisco Field Division, and Deputy Special Agent in Charge Anthony Chrysanthis for DEA’s Los Angeles Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the ATF and DEA. Assistant United States Attorney David Kiebler prosecuted the case.
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Former CEO of Silver State Health Services and Real Estate Investor Indicted for Embezzling over $2 Million Dollars in Federal Grant MoneyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – The former Chief Executive Officer of Silver State Health Services, LLC, a not-for-profit federally qualified health center, made his court appearance today for allegedly embezzling over $2 million of federal grant money intended for the health care center to provide health care items, benefits, and services to indigent persons in Las Vegas.
According to allegations contained in the superseding indictment, from June 2019 and continuing through April 2022, David Ryan Linden, 36, who served as the Chief Executive Officer of Silver State Health Services (SSHS), and Rich Kiran Saga, 53, a real estate investor who affiliated himself with SSHS, conspired to engage in a scheme to steal money belonging to SSHS, including federal grant money earmarked for employee salaries, by funneling grant money belonging to SSHS into bank accounts controlled by the defendants. They then used the stolen grant money to purchase commercial real estate properties.
SSHS was a Nevada corporation operating as a Federally Qualified Community Health Center; and SSHS received federal grant money from the Health Resources and Services Administration, an agency of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
A federal grand jury returned the 13-count superseding indictment on May 13, 2025, charging Linden and Saga each with one count of conspiracy to commit offense against the United States; six counts of federal program theft; one count of conspiracy to violate Sections 1956 and 1957; two counts of money laundering; two counts of money transactions in criminally derived property; and one count of false document.
Saga was arrested on May 14, 2025, and arraigned on the charges on May 15, 2025.
A jury trial is set to begin on December 2, 2025, before United States District Judge Jennifer Dorsey.
If convicted, Linden and Saga each face the maximum statutory penalty of 121 months in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
This case was a joint investigation by the FBI and the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Office of Inspector General. Assistant United States Attorneys Steven Myhre and Justin Washburne are 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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Mexican National with Two Prior Deportations and Three Prior Felony Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made his initial court appearance today to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Jesus Carreno-Serrano, 40, is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 10, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Maximiliano D. Couvillier, III.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Carreno-Serrano is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on July 23, 2018, and May 21, 2020, and reentered the United States illegally.
On May 11, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned that Carreno-Serrano had been arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police for Driving Under the Influence. On May 11, 2025, Carreno-Serrano was remanded to ICE custody from the Clark County Detention Center, based on an immigration detainer. Carreno-Serrano has three prior felony convictions: one for Aggravated Driving Under the Influence, a second for Drug Paraphernalia Possess/Use, and a third for Illegal Reentry After Deportation.
If convicted, Carreno-Serrano 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.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke 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 Man Sentenced to Three Years in Prison for Extorting, Stalking, Threatening Text Messages and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who pleaded guilty to extortion, money laundering, stalking, and sending threatening text messages to injure and kill two people and their families, including children, was sentenced today by United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II to 36 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release, a fine of $75,000, and $200,000 in restitution.
According to court documents, on April 29, 2024, Idriss Qibaa threatened force and extorted $200,000 from a victim. As part of the extortion scheme, on March 7 and 8, 2024, he obtained $63,500 worth of cryptocurrency. Then, in June and July 2024, he engaged in online direct messages, texts, and postings, to cause substantial emotion distress to his victims. On July 19, 2024, Qibaa sent text messages containing threats to injure and kill a victim and members of the victim’s family. Later, on July 24, he sent text messages containing threats to injure and kill another victim.
In February 2025, Qibaa pleaded guilty to one count of extortion, two counts of money laundering, one count of stalking, and two counts of interstate communications containing a threat to injure.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
The FBI and the Beverly Hills Police Department investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National with Two Prior Deportations Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to 17 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on two prior occasions.
According to court documents, Cristian Alberto Nunez-Hipolito was found by immigration officials on September 29, 2024, after he was previously deported on or about September 17, 2018, and January 10, 2020. Nunez-Hipolito came into ICE custody on September 30, 2024, from the Clark County Detention Center on an immigration detainer after being arrested by state law enforcement on unrelated charges.
Nunez-Hipolito pleaded guilty to one count of Deported Alien Found in the United States. This was his second such conviction, as he was convicted in 2019 in the Southern District of Arizona for the same crime. Nunez-Hipolito also has a 2017 Robbery conviction out of the Superior Court of California, County of Los Angels.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke 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 12 Years in Prison for Reoffending While on Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who was on supervised release when he brought methamphetamine and a firearm to a meeting with his United States Probation Officer was sentenced today by United States District Judge James C. Mahan to 151 months in prison followed by five years of supervised release.
According to court documents, Anthony Valenzuela was on supervised release for a felony conviction for felon in possession of a firearm. On March 7, 2023, he drove to the United States Probation Office for a meeting with his supervising officer. During a search of his vehicle, officers found a bookbag containing a digital scale, plastic bags, mail, and a fake drink can containing methamphetamine. In another bag, officers found additional methamphetamine and a Taurus 9mm semiautomatic pistol. The drugs recovered from the vehicle consisted of at least 150 grams but less than 500 grams of methamphetamine.
Photo of methamphetamine powder in resealable bag concealed in drink can.
Photo of a black Taurus 9mm semiautomatic pistol in a bag.
In January 2025, Valenzuela pleaded guilty to one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the United States Probation Office with assistance by Homeland Security Investigations and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jean Ripley prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National with Three Prior Deportations Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced this week to a total of 24 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States, while on federal supervised release, after being removed from the country on three prior occasions. On Thursday, Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon sentenced Geraldo Maya-Gonzalez to 18 months in prison. On Friday, he was sentenced to an additional, consecutive six months by United States District Judge James C. Mahan for violating the terms of his supervised release imposed after his 2018 conviction for the same offense.
According to court documents, Maya-Gonzalez was found by immigration officials on January 27, 2021, after he was previously deported on or about March 3, 2011, June 5, 2012, and July 26, 2019. Maya-Gonzalez came into ICE custody in 2024, after serving a state sentence for drug trafficking.
Maya-Gonzalez pleaded guilty to one count of Deported Alien Found in the United States. This was his third such conviction.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke 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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Felon Sentenced to 49 Years in Prison for Multiple Armed RobberiesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who has prior felony convictions was sentenced today by United States District Judge Miranda M. Du to 49 years in prison for committing multiple armed robberies of businesses in Las Vegas.
According to evidence presented at trial and court documents, from January 19, 2022, to January 25, 2022, George Perez committed seven store robberies. At all seven robberies, Perez approached the cashiers with store merchandise, pretending he was going to purchase it. At six of the seven robberies, he pointed a Taurus G2 9mm firearm at the cashiers and demanded money. Perez stole money by threatened force, physical violence, and fear of injury.
Perez has prior convictions including attempt possession of controlled substance with intent to sell; two burglaries; and possession of credit or debit card without cardholder’s consent, all in Clark County, Nevada, and he is prohibited by law to possess a firearm.
In February 2025, following a five-day trial, a jury convicted Perez of seven counts of interference with commerce by robbery, seven counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorneys David Kiebler and Lauren Ibanez prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National with Prior Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national unlawfully residing in Las Vegas made his initial court appearance Wednesday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Fausto Garcia-Garcia, 44, is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 28, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Garcia-Garcia is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on January 23, 2003, and reentered the United States illegally.
On December 31, 2024, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned that Garcia-Garcia had been arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police for Attempt Lewdness by Person Over 18 with Child Less Than 14, Sexual Assault Against Child Less Than 14, two counts Lewdness by Person Over 18 with Child Less Than 14, and Child Abuse/Neglect. On May 1, 2025, Garcia-Garcia was remanded to ICE custody from the Clark County Detention Center, based on an immigration detainer.
If convicted, Garcia-Garcia 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.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke 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 Four Prior Deportations Sentenced to Prison for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced Wednesday by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 33 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on four prior occasions.
According to court documents, Casiano Meza-Cadenas was found by immigration officials on October 22, 2023, after he was previously deported on or about August 19, 2004, September 24, 2008, May 26, 2018, and May 6, 2019. Meza-Cadenas came into ICE custody in 2024, after serving a state sentence on a conviction for possession of firearm by a prohibited person. This latest conviction was Meza-Cadenas’ fifth conviction related to firearms, including a 2016 conviction for battery with substantial bodily harm where he shot two people.
Meza-Cadenas pleaded guilty to one count of Deported Alien Found in the United States. This was his second such conviction, as he was convicted in 2018 in the Southern District of California for the same crime.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke 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 Indicted for Multiple Armed CarjackingsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man made his initial court appearance Tuesday before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J. Albregts for allegedly committing multiple violent armed carjackings.
According to allegations contained in the indictment, on March 24, 2025, Aerion Warmsley brandished a Taurus 9mm firearm and stole a Mercedes-Benz CLA 250 from a victim by force, violence, and intimidation. The victim suffered a fractured nose. Then, on March 27, 2025, Warmsley brandished the 9mm firearm and stole a Mercedes-Benz GL450 from a victim by force, violence, and intimidation. While fleeing from law enforcement, he struck two pedestrians with the vehicle resulting in serious bodily injury to the victims. One victim suffered a brain bleed and multiple fractures, and the second victim suffered multiple fractures. On the same day, Warmsley brandished the 9mm firearm and stole a Kia Sorrento from a victim by force, violence, and intimidation.
Warmsley is charged with two counts of carjacking resulting in serious bodily injury, three counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and one count of carjacking. A jury trial has been scheduled for July 14, 2025, before United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro.
If convicted, Warmsley faces the maximum statutory penalty of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, North Las Vegas Police Department, Henderson Police Department, and the Clark County School District Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Edward Penetar 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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Nevada Man Sentenced to 46 Months in Prison for Threatening U.S. SenatorsRead the Press Release
A Las Vegas man who pleaded guilty to threatening a U.S. Senator from Nevada and threatening family members of two United States Senators was sentenced today to over three years in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
“The threats against these U.S. Senators and their families were vile, dehumanizing, and shameful,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the National Security Division. “Today’s sentence reflects the Department’s firm resolve to holding accountable those who seek to intimidate and harm our public officials. Such threats of violence have no place in our country.”
“With today’s sentencing, the defendant will pay the price for making threats of violence,” said Assistant Director Donald M. Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “It is unacceptable to threaten public officials or anyone else, and the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable anyone who engages in such illegal activity.”
According to court documents, from Oct. 11 to 25, 2023, John Anthony Miller left numerous threatening voicemails at the offices of two U.S. Senators. Miller threatened to assault and murder a U.S. Senator with intent to impede, intimidate, and interfere with U.S. Senator while engaged in the performance of official duties, and with intent to retaliate against the U.S. Senator on account of the performance of official duties.
The following week, on Oct. 24 and Oct. 25, Miller threatened to assault and murder a member of the immediate family of two U.S. Senators, with intent to impede, intimidate, and interfere with the U.S. Senators while engaged in the performance of official duties, and with intent to retaliate against the U.S. Senators on account of the performance of official duties.
Miller pleaded guilty to one-count of threatening a federal official and two-counts of influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official by threatening a family member. U.S. District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey presided over the sentencing hearing.
The FBI Las Vegas Field Office investigated the case with valuable assistance provided by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the U.S. Capitol Police.
Assistant U.S. Attorneys Jacob Operskalski and Daniel Schiess for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.
To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.
Nevada Man Sentenced to Prison for Threatening United States SenatorsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who pleaded guilty to threatening a United States Senator from Nevada and threatening family members of two United States Senators was sentenced today to 46 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release.
According to court documents, from October 11 to 25, 2023, John Anthony Miller left numerous threatening voicemails at the offices of two United States Senators. Miller threatened to assault and murder a United States Senator with intent to impede, intimidate, and interfere with the United States Senator while engaged in the performance of official duties, and with intent to retaliate against the United States Senator on account of the performance of official duties.
On October 24 and October 25, Miller threatened to assault and murder a member of the immediate family of two United States Senators, with intent to impede, intimidate, and interfere with the United States Senators while engaged in the performance of official duties, and with intent to retaliate against the United States Senators on account of the performance of official duties.
“The threats against these U.S. Senators and their families were vile, dehumanizing, and shameful,” said Sue J. Bai, head of the National Security Division. “Today’s sentence reflects the Department’s firm resolve to holding accountable those who seek to intimidate and harm our public officials. Such threats of violence have no place in our country.”
“With today’s sentencing, the defendant will pay the price for making threats of violence,” said Assistant Director Donald M. Holstead of the FBI’s Counterterrorism Division. “It is unacceptable to threaten public officials or anyone else, and the FBI will work with our law enforcement partners to identify and hold accountable anyone who engages in such illegal activity.”
“Violent threats against any individual are unacceptable, but when they are directed at elected officials and their family members, threats have the potential to impact democracy itself by silencing those chosen to represent the American People,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “The sentencing of John Anthony Miller exemplifies the FBI's commitment to hold accountable those who seek to illegally threaten or intimidate others.”
Miller pleaded guilty to one-count of threatening a federal official and two-counts of influencing, impeding, or retaliating against a federal official by threatening a family member. United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey presided over the sentencing hearing.
This case was investigated by the FBI Las Vegas Division with valuable assistance provided by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the U.S. Marshals Service, and the U.S. Capitol Police. Assistant United States Attorneys Jacob Operskalski and Daniel R. Schiess prosecuted the case.
To report suspected threats or violent acts, contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (225-5324) or file an online complaint at www.tips.fbi.gov. If someone is in imminent danger or risk of harm, contact 911 or your local police immediately.
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Three Members of Transnational Financial Crime Syndicate IndictedRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Los Angeles, California, man made his initial appearance Wednesday before United States Magistrate Judge Maximiliano D. Couvillier, III, in Las Vegas, Nevada, for his alleged role in a transnational financial fraud organization to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft.
According to court documents, Xui Jie Chen, also known as “Johnny Chen,” 32, and co-conspirators Jin Wei Chen, 41, of Flushing, New York, and Yue Yuan, 34, of the People’s Republic of China, obtained more than 5,000 genuine drivers’ licenses belonging to United States citizens residing in New York, Texas, and other states. Jin Wei Chen, Johnny Chen, and Yue Yuan engaged co-conspirators to use those licenses to withdraw or attempt to withdraw funds from banks and obtain financing for luxury cars under false pretenses. The criminal scheme touched at least 14 states, including Nevada, Arizona, Utah, Colorado, and Minnesota.
In addition to the Bank Fraud conspiracy, each defendant is charged in multiple counts of Aggravated Identity Theft related to using and causing to be used the fraudulently obtained licenses belonging to United States-based victims of the Bank Fraud conspiracy.
A jury trial is set for July 14, 2025, before United States District Judge James C. Mahan.
If convicted, the defendants each face a maximum penalty of 30 years in prison on the conspiracy to commit bank fraud charge, and a mandatory minimum penalty of two years in prison on the aggravated identity theft charge, which would run consecutive to any sentence imposed by the Court for the bank fraud conspiracy. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Sigal Chattah, United States Attorney for the District of Nevada, Matthew R. Galeotti, Head of the Justice Department’s Criminal Division, and Special Agent in Charge Lester R. Hayes for Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) Las Vegas made the announcement.
HSI Las Vegas investigated the case with substantial assistance provided by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the Nevada Gaming Commission, and the Nevada Gaming Control Board Enforcement Division. Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Frayn for the District of Nevada and Trial Attorney Ken Kaplan of the Justice Department’s Money Laundering and Asset Recovery Section are 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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Las Vegas Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Conspiracy to Distribute Methamphetamine, Heroin, and CocaineRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 10 years in prison, followed by five years of supervised release for his role in a drug trafficking conspiracy to sell methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine.
According to court documents, from about December 11, 2023, to May 16, 2024, Abel Puebla conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine in Las Vegas. As part of the conspiracy, on January 24, 2024, Puebla sold one pound of methamphetamine; on February 14, 2024, he sold three pounds of methamphetamine and a bag containing cocaine; and on March 28, 2024, Puebla sold an ounce of heroin.
Puebla pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine, heroin, and cocaine.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Brister prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National with Two Prior Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national unlawfully residing in Las Vegas made his initial court appearance Wednesday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on two prior occasions.
Hilario Villegas-Espinoza, 52, is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 21, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Maximiliano D. Couvillier, III.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Villegas-Espinoza is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on November 4, 2009, and February 11, 2011, and reentered the United States illegally on or before September 3, 2020.
On September 3, 2020, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned that Villegas-Espinoza had been arrested by North Las Vegas Police for three counts Sexual Assault Against Child Less Than 14 and four counts Lewdness by Person Over 18 with Child Less Than 14, in North Las Vegas, Nevada. On April 22, 2025, Villegas-Espinoza was remanded to ICE custody from the Nevada Department of Corrections, based on an immigration detainer. Villegas-Espinoza has a 2010 felony conviction in the United States District Court for the Western District of Texas, of Illegal Reentry After Deportation.
If convicted, Villegas-Espinoza 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.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke 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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Two Foreign Nationals Indicted for Selling Drugs and Unlawful Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Two foreign nationals unlawfully residing in the United States made their initial court appearances Wednesday to face a 12-count indictment in connection to an alleged drug trafficking conspiracy to distribute heroin, methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine, and unlawful possession of firearms, including a privately made firearm, in furtherance of the drug trafficking crimes.
According to allegations contained in court documents, from September 2024 to March 27, 2025, Jose Luis Castillo-Alvarez, also known as “Celso Ramses Ibarra-Angulo” and “Oscar,” and Kevin Omar Cruz-Lima, also known as “Kevin Omar Lima-Cruz” and “Cesar,” conspired with each other to distribute 100 grams or more of heroin; 50 grams or more of methamphetamine; 10 grams or more of fentanyl; and cocaine. Furthermore, on March 27, 2025, Castillo-Alvarez and Cruz-Lima allegedly possessed an AM15 5.56x45mm semiautomatic rifle and a privately made 9x19mm semiautomatic pistol in furtherance of the drug trafficking crimes. Castillo-Alvarez and Cruz-Lima were unlawfully in the United States at the time of the alleged crimes. Castillo-Alvarez had been previously deported from the United States.
Heroin is a Schedule I controlled substance; and methamphetamine, fentanyl, and cocaine are Schedule II controlled substances.
Castillo-Alvarez and Cruz-Lima are each charged with one count of conspiracy to distribute controlled substances; two counts of distribution of heroin; one count of prohibited person in possession of a firearm; and two counts of possession of a firearm during and in relation to a drug trafficking crime.
Additionally, Castillo-Alvarez is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Castillo-Alvarez was previously deported and removed from the United States on April 20, 2020, and reentered the country illegally. Cruz-Lima is charged with one count of possession with intent to distribute methamphetamine; one count of possession with intent to distribute heroin; one count of possession with intent to distribute fentanyl; and one count of possession with intent to distribute cocaine.
United States Magistrate Judge Youchah scheduled a jury trial before United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II to begin on June 30, 2025.
If convicted, both Castillo-Alvarez and Cruz-Lima face the total maximum statutory penalty of confinement for life.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke made the announcement.
This case was investigated by ATF, the ICE Salt Lake City, Las Vegas Sub-Office, and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig and Special Assistant United States Attorney Clay Plummer are prosecuting 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.
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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Las Vegas Man Sentenced to over 13 Years in Prison for Coercion and Enticement of Multiple ChildrenRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced Thursday by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 160 months in prison to be followed by 15 years of supervised release. Denzel Renyal Michael Loyd’s sentence follows his conviction for four counts of coercion and enticement after he solicited multiple children to engage in prostitution. The defendant utilized Facebook to contact the minors and solicit them to engage in sexual acts, send him sexually explicit images and videos of themselves, and prostitute themselves on his behalf.
“Today’s sentence reflects the seriousness of the offense,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Over the span of a few months, the defendant, a self-described pimp, solicited numerous minors to send him sexually explicit photographs and videos of themselves, induced them to engage in various sex acts – at least one victim complied to his sex demands in exchange for food, and attempted to convince the victims to engage in prostitution. The U.S. Attorney’s Office continues to work closely with the FBI to protect our youth from predators, and we will seek justice for victims.”
“Denzel Renyal Michael Loyd deserves each and every day of his 13-year prison term,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI. “This sentence delivers a message to anyone intent on harming children. The FBI and our law enforcement partners are committed to protecting children from the clutches of offenders like Loyd. Every time a child predator is brought to justice, potential victims are spared immeasurable harm.”
In addition to imprisonment, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, Loyd must register as a sex offender and keep the registration current.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
The FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Jean Ripley and Supriya Prasad prosecuted the case with the assistance of the Department of Justice Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section (CEOS).
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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Mexican National with Three Prior Deportations Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national made his initial court appearance Tuesday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on three prior occasions.
Audencio Vazquez-Calletano, 31, is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for May 13, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Vazquez-Calletano is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on May 13, 2011, February 22, 2012, and June 21, 2024, and reentered the United States illegally on or before April 14, 2025.
The U.S. Customs and Border Patrol (CBP) arrested Vazquez-Calletano near Searchlight, Nevada, on April 14, 2025. Vazquez-Calletano unsuccessfully tried to flee CBP apprehension. Vazquez-Calletano has a prior felony conviction for Take Vehicle Without Owner’s Consent/Vehicle Theft, in Santa Barbara County, California.
If convicted, Lopez Munoz 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.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Salt Lake City Field Office Director Michael Bernacke 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 Man Sentenced to Prison for Threatening Federal Judge and Anthrax HoaxRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man was sentenced today by Senior District Judge John A. Mendez to 18 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for mailing a threatening letter to a federal judge and conveying false information and hoax.
“Threats of violence against a federal judge is a threat to our judicial system,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office and our partners at the FBI and United States Marshals Service will not tolerate these types of criminal actions against a public servant. We will prosecute perpetrators to the fullest extent of the law.”
“Unlawful threats of violence against public officials directly challenge the integrity of our democracy,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI. “Individuals must not live in fear of violence due to their identity, beliefs, or political affiliation. The FBI remains steadfast in its commitment to collaborating with our law enforcement partners to pursue justice in these matters.”
According to court documents, on June 27, 2022, Hadari Stallworth mailed a letter to the United States District Court Clerk in Las Vegas, which was addressed to a United States District Court Judge for the District of Nevada. In the letter, Stallworth wrote that he would “have my people kill whatever you hold dearly first: pets, kids, grandkids, husband…” and that individuals under his control would “kidnap” and “to[r]ture” the District Judge.
Stallworth mailed a subsequent letter, which was received on September 30, 2022, by the United States District Court Clerk. In that letter, Stallworth wrote “This is Anthrax. Now Die Traitors!” and placed a white powder intended to cause the recipients to believe that it contained anthrax. The threatening letter Stallworth wrote caused substantial disruption to the proceedings of the Office of the Clerk of the Court, including causing the office to be closed and individuals to be quarantined.
Stallworth pleaded guilty to one count of mailing threatening communications and one count of false information and hoaxes.
United States Attorney Chattah, FBI Special Agent in Charge Evans, and Marshal Gary Schofield for the United States Marshals Service (USMS) made the announcement.
This case was a joint investigation by the FBI and USMS. Assistant United States Attorneys Edward Veronda and Melinda Brewer prosecuted the case.
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