District of Nevada
Press releases recorded for this federal judicial district.
Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Prison for COVID-19 Unemployment Insurance Benefits FraudRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 33 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for a scheme to steal nearly $240,000 in unemployment insurance benefits.
According to court documents, on July 15, 2020, Lavell Deshon Roberts was stopped when law enforcement conducted a traffic stop of the vehicle he was driving. During a search of the vehicle, officers located a pistol, $50,000 in money orders, and 10 debit cards issued by the Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation (DETR).
Between June and July 2020, Roberts used the debit cards to fraudulently withdraw unemployment insurance benefits from ATMs in Texas, resulting in a total loss of $238,940.
Roberts and co-defendant Corey Marcus Valrey were indicted by a grand jury in October 2022. Roberts pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. Valrey pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit wire fraud and will be sentenced on July 11, 2025.
In addition to imprisonment, Roberts was ordered to pay restitution.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Karon Ransom for the United States Secret Service made the announcement.
The United States Secret Service investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Mina Chang and Kimberly Frayn prosecuted the case.
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Nevada Printer and Mailer Pleads Guilty to Participating in Elder Fraud SchemeRead the Press Release
A Nevada woman pleaded guilty today for engaging in a prize notice fraud scheme that defrauded thousands of consumers, many of whom were elderly, across the United States and abroad. Barbara Trickle, 80, of Las Vegas, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit mail and wire fraud.
According to the indictment, Trickle and her co-conspirators prepared and mailed millions of fraudulent prize notices that led their victims to believe that they had been individually selected to receive a large cash prize and would receive their prize if they paid a $20 to $50 fee. In reality, no victim ever received a large cash prize from Trickle or her co-conspirators. Instead, victims received a “report” describing sweepstakes opportunities or a trinket of minimal value. After victims responded to one fraudulent prize notice mailing, Trickle and her co-conspirators inundated them with additional fraudulent mailings. Trickle and her co-conspirators used the scheme to steal more than $15 million from victims.
The fraud scheme operated from 2012 to February 2018, when the U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS) executed multiple search warrants and the Justice Department obtained a court order shutting down the fraudulent mail operation. Trickle was the owner and operator of a printing and mailing business that produced the fraudulent prize notice mailings for the scheme. Trickle supervised the lasering, printing, and mailing of the fraudulent mailings.
“The Department of Justice’s Consumer Protection Branch is committed to protecting elderly consumers from fraudulent mass-mailing schemes,” said Acting Assistant Attorney General Yaakov Roth of the Justice Department’s Civil Division. “We are grateful to the Postal Inspection Service for their thorough investigation in this matter.”
“The defendant and her co-conspirators used the promise of sweepstakes winnings to defraud the most vulnerable members in our communities,” said Inspector in Charge Eric Shen of the U.S. Postal Inspection Service Criminal Investigations Group. “The U.S. Postal Inspection Service will continue to aggressively investigate mass-mailing schemes and other types of fraud to protect older Americans from financial exploitation and bring criminals to justice.”
The USPIS conducted the investigation.
Trial Attorneys Carolyn Rice and Charles Dunn of the Civil Division’s Consumer Protection Branch prosecuted the case, with substantial assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada.
The department urges individuals to be on the lookout for fraudulent lottery, prize notification, sweepstakes, and psychic scams. If you receive a phone call, letter or email promising a large prize in exchange for a fee, do not respond. Fraudsters often will use official-sounding names or the names of real lotteries or sweepstakes or pretend to be a government agent purportedly helping to secure a prize.
If you or someone you know is age 60 or older and has been a victim of financial fraud, help is standing by at the National Elder Fraud Hotline: 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). This U.S. Department of Justice hotline, managed by the Office for Victims of Crime, is staffed by experienced professionals who 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 its website at www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Elder fraud complaints may be filed with the FTC at https://reportfraud.ftc.gov/ or at 877-FTC-HELP. The Department of Justice provides a variety of resources relating to elder fraud victimization through its Office for Victims of Crime, which can be reached at www.ovc.gov.
Two Foreign Nationals with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Mexican and Salvadorian 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.
Heraldo Neftali Gomez-Jacobo, 54, and Ismael Perez-Reyes, 38, are both charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for May 5, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Gomez-Jacobo, a citizen and national of El Salvador, and Perez-Reyes, a citizen and national of Mexico, were both previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally.
On April 5, 2025, Gomez-Jacobo 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 on a bench warrant. Gomez-Jacobo had previously been deported on or about October 15, 2003, after being convicted of four counts of Attempt Lewdness with A Child Under the Age of 14.
On March 31, 2025, Perez-Reyes was remanded to the custody of ICE, from the Clark County Detention Center, based on an ICE detainer after he been arrested for Driving Under the Influence and Allow Child Abuse/Neglect, by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police. Perez-Reyes had previously been deported to Mexico on December 7, 2022, and November 8, 2023. Perez-Reyes has two prior felony convictions: one for Possession or Use of a Controlled Substance in a Correctional Facility, and another for Illegal Reentry After Deportation. Perez-Reyes also has an active warrant out of Utah for violating the terms his probation by returning to the U.S illegally.
If convicted, Gomez-Jacobo 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, Perez-Reyes faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
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 over 18 Years in Prison for Child Sexual ExploitationRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 18 years and 4 months in prison to be followed by 15 years of supervised release for sexually exploiting a child in his care, and possessing more than 2,000 files of child sexual abuse material (CSAM) depicting two children in his care and numerous other minors.
“The defendant engaged in a pattern of activity involving the sexual exploitation of a young girl within his supervisory control and possessed CSAM depicting two children in his custody,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The defendant not only traumatized the children who trusted him, but he also possessed child sexual abuse material of additional victims. Let today’s sentencing be a deterrent to others like this defendant.”
“Exploiting young children and creating child sexual abuse material is among the most heinous crimes investigated by the FBI,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “We remain steadfast in our commitment to seek justice for the victims of such predators. Today's sentencing exemplifies the unwavering determination of the FBI and our partners to safeguard the most vulnerable members of our community.”
According to court documents, in December 2020, Daniel Lee Rhees messaged another Kik user that he sexually assaulted a six-year-old girl related to him. During the chats, Rhees stated that he formed a group of taboo parents and uses the Session platform as a place to chat and share CSAM. On December 16, 2020, investigators obtained a search warrant for Rhee’s residence and seized multiple devices belonging to him. During a forensic examination of the devices, investigators recovered CSAM of the six-year-old girl, and another four-year-old girl also related to Rhees. In total, Rhees possessed 1,803 images and 243 videos of child sexual abuse material.
Rhees pleaded guilty to one count of sexual exploitation of children and one count of possession of child pornography. In addition to imprisonment, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, Rhees 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 the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case. 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. For more information about Project Safe Childhood, please visit www.justice.gov/psc.
Anyone who has information about the physical or online exploitation of children are encouraged to call the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov.
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Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Prison for Engaging in the Business of Selling Firearms Without A Federal Firearms LicenseRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced Wednesday by United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II to five years in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release for manufacturing and selling firearms without a serial number and machine gun conversion devices, using a 3-D printer.
According to court documents, beginning in September 2023 and continuing through November 2023, James Mosqueda engaged in the business of dealing firearms without a Federal Firearms License. In September 2023, he sold a 9mm privately made firearm (PMF) and a .45 caliber pistol. In October 2023, he sold a total of three 9mm PMFs, a silencer, 68 machine gun conversion devices, 10 Glock switch machine gun conversion devices, and 32 AR drop-in style machine gun conversion devices. A machine gun conversion device converts a semi-automatic firearm into a fully automatic firearm. In addition to the firearms, he distributed 1,061 grams of methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance.
Mosqueda pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business of dealing or manufacturing firearms without a license, one count of trafficking in firearms, one count of distribution of methamphetamine, and five counts of unlawful transfer or possession of a machinegun.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
The ATF investigated the case; and the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada prosecuted the case.
If you have information about illegal firearms activity, you are urged to submit a tip to ATF by calling the hotline at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867) or through the ReportIt mobile app.
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New Mexico Man Pleads Guilty to Selling Firearms Without A Federal Firearms LicenseRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Santa Fe, New Mexico, resident pleaded guilty today to repeatedly purchasing a large quantity of firearms, then reselling those firearms to buyers in the United States and Mexico for profit.
According to court documents and admissions made in court, from December 2020 through January 17, 2023, Celso Daniel Ruiz purchased at least 145 of the same or similar-type firearms from Federal Firearms Licensees in Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada. Shortly after purchasing many of the firearms, he crossed the U.S.-Mexico border. Eighteen firearms purchased by Ruiz were subsequently registered by individuals through various parts of Mexico. Furthermore, Ruiz knew that many of the firearms he purchased would be transferred outside of the United States. He did not have a license as a firearms dealer to sell or export firearms.
Ruiz pleaded guilty to one count of engaging in the business of dealing firearms without a license.
United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II scheduled sentencing for August 20, 2025. At sentencing, Ruiz faces the maximum statutory penalty of five years in prison and three years of supervised release. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the ATF. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig is prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information about the unlawful purchase of firearms can call ATF at 1-888-ATF-TIPS (1-888-283-8477), email [email protected] or submit information anonymously at www.reportit.com/.
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Las Vegas Man Sentenced to Nine Years in Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced Tuesday by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to nine years in prison, followed by three years of supervised release, for his role in a conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in Las Vegas.
According to court documents, from about November 8, 2022, to about January 5, 2023, Treshon Edwards conspired with others to distribute methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance. On November 8, 2022, Edwards distributed two pounds of methamphetamine. On December 12, 2022, he distributed three pounds of methamphetamine. On January 5, 2023, Edwards agreed to sell six pounds of methamphetamine and hundreds of pills containing fentanyl. He was arrested that day with the methamphetamine and pills in his car.
Photo of three pounds of methamphetamine sold by Edwards in U.S. v. Treshon Edwards.
Photo of methamphetamine and pills on car seat Edwards intended to sell in U.S. v. Treshon Edwards.
Edwards pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance, two counts of distribution of a controlled substance, and one count of possession with intent to distribute a controlled substance.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada and Anthony Chrysanthis, Deputy Special Agent in Charge for the DEA Los Angeles Field Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Brister prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national residing in Las Vegas made his initial court appearance Monday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after being removed from the country on three prior occasions.
Jose Ricardo Lopez Munoz, 49, is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for April 28, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Lopez Munoz is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on November 13, 1995, February 26, 1997, and August 1, 2013, and reentered the United States illegally on or before November 28, 2023.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Lopez Munoz in Las Vegas, Nevada, on April 13, 2025. Lopez Munoz has 18 aliases, and his prior felony convictions include: Illegal Re-entry from the U.S. District Court, Western District of Texas; Menacing, from the District Court, El Paso County, Colorado; and Challenge to Fight with use of a Deadly Weapon and with the Intent to Promote Further or Assist a Criminal Gang from the Eighth Judicial District Court, Clark County, Nevada.
ICE learned on December 1, 2023, of Lopez Munoz’s presence in the United States. after he was arrested by state law enforcement, in Clark County, Nevada, on November 28, 2023.
If convicted, Lopez Munoz 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 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 Woman Sentenced to Prison for Destroying Mail Boxes and Stealing Mail from Post OfficesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to 15 months in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for damaging post office boxes and stealing mail on 17 different occasions.
According to court documents, between June 20, 2023 and September 4, 2024, Amanda Gonzalez-Valerio would bring a pry bar into a post office, break open locked post office boxes, and steal mail from the boxes. In total, she stole mail belonging to more than 10 people.
Additionally, on September 10, 2023, Gonzalez-Valerio entered a post office and broke into a box which was rented by a Las Vegas casino. She took a winning betting ticket belonging to a victim who had recently won a parlay bet and mailed his winning ticket back to the casino. Two days later, Gonzalez-Valerio cashed the victim’s winning ticket and received $3,377.60 in stolen money.
In January 2025, Gonzalez-Valerio pleaded guilty to one count of theft or receipt of mail matter and one count of destruction of letter boxes or mail.
United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the United States Postal Inspection Service. Assistant United States Attorney Justin Washburne prosecuted the case.
Report suspected mail theft, and other mail-related crimes, tips or incidents by calling the United States Postal Inspection Service at 1-877-876-2455.
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Jury Convicts Home Health Agency Executive of Fixing Wages and Fraudulently Concealing Criminal InvestigationRead the Press Release
A federal jury convicted a Nevada man today for participating in a three-year conspiracy to fix the wages for home healthcare nurses in Las Vegas and for fraudulently failing to disclose the criminal antitrust investigation during the sale of his home healthcare staffing company.
According to court documents and evidence presented at trial, Eduardo “Eddie” Lopez of Las Vegas, Nevada conspired to artificially cap the wages of home healthcare nurses in the Las Vegas area between March 2016 and May 2019. The three-year conspiracy affected the wages of hundreds of Las Vegas registered nurses and licensed practical nurses who provide care to patients in their homes. During the pendency of the government’s investigation, Lopez then sold his home healthcare staffing company for over $10 million while fraudulently concealing the government’s criminal investigation from the buyer.
“Wage-fixing agreements are nakedly unlawful attempts at unjustly profiting off American workers,” said Assistant Attorney General Abigail A. Slater of the Justice Department's Antitrust Division. “Today’s verdict highlights what should be a clear message with antitrust crimes: the agreement is the crime. The Antitrust Division will zealously prosecute those who seek to unjustly profit off their employees. The nurses here deserved better and, under President Trump’s leadership, they will be protected.”
“Hundreds of registered nurses and licensed practical nurses were affected by the defendant’s three-year conspiracy to fix wages,” said U.S. Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to prosecuting executives who seek to line their own pockets.”
"The FBI, along with our partners, will not condone fraud schemes that undermine the wages of dedicated nurses and licensed practical nurses," said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office. "This guilty verdict serves as an important reminder that illegal activities will face strict consequences. We will remain committed to diligently pursuing individuals who exploit others for personal gain."
Lopez was convicted of one count of participating in a wage-fixing conspiracy and five counts of wire fraud. He is scheduled to be sentenced on July 14. A violation of the Sherman Act carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison and a $1 million criminal fine for individuals. A violation of the wire fraud statute carries a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The Antitrust Division’s San Francisco Office and the FBI’s International Corruption Unit investigated the case, with assistance from the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada. Senior Litigation Counsel Jeffrey Cramer and Mikal Condon, Assistant Chief Andrew Mast, and Trial Attorneys Paradi Javandel and Conor Bradley, and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez are prosecuting the case.
Anyone with information in connection with this investigation should contact the Antitrust Division’s Complaint Center at 888-647-3258, or visit http://www.justice.gov/atr/report-violations.
Two Foreign Nationals with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Mexican and Salvadorian nationals residing in Las Vegas made their initial court appearances Thursday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
David Cristales-Machado, 35, and Juan Manuel Lopez-Mendez, 35, are both charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for April 24, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Daniel J Albregts.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Cristales-Machado, a citizen and national of El Salvador, and Lopez-Mendez, a citizen and national of Mexico, were both previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally.
On March 22, 2025, Cristales-Machado 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 twice been arrested and convicted of carry a concealed weapon without permit. Cristales-Machado had previously been deported on or about October 8, 2014. Cristales-Machado has three prior felony convictions: two for attempt possession of a stolen vehicle, and one attempt burglary.
On March 28, 2025, Lopez-Mendez was remanded to the custody of ICE, from the Clark County Detention Center, based on an ICE detainer after he been arrested for Possession of a Controlled Substance, by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police. Lopez-Mendez had previously been deported to Mexico on July 12, 2018. Lopez-Mendez has two prior felony convictions: one for transport of a controlled substance, and another for attempt possession of a stolen vehicle.
If convicted, Cristales-Machado faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
If convicted, Lopez-Mendez faces a 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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Jury Convicts Two Men of Damaging Rock Formations at National Recreation Area in NevadaRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A federal jury convicted two Henderson, Nev., men today of damaging ancient rock formations at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area in Nevada.
According to evidence presented and statements made at trial, on April 7, 2024, Wyatt Clifford Fain and Payden David Guy Cosper pushed ancient rock formations over a cliff onto the ground below while on or near the Redstone Dunes Trail at the Lake Mead National Recreation Area.
Following a two-day jury trial, Fain and Cosper were each found guilty of one count of injury and depredation of government property.
United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey scheduled sentencing for July 8, 2025. Fain and Cosper each face a maximum penalty of one year in prison, a $100,000 fine, or both. 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 Lake Mead National Recreation Area Superintendent Mike Gauthier made the announcement.
The National Park Service investigated this case. Assistant United States Attorney Skyler Pearson is prosecuting the case.
If you see something suspicious or if you have information that could help an investigation, call the National Park Service Tip Line at 1-888-653-0009 or submit a tip online to [email protected].
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Southern Nevada Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Coercion and Enticement of A Child and Possession of Child Sexual Abuse MaterialRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Henderson, Nev., resident was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 10 years in prison to be followed by 10 years of supervised release for engaging in a sexually explicit conversation with who he believed to be a child and possessing child sexual abuse material on his phone.
According to court documents, on April 5, 2023, Nathan Thomas Foreman (43) engaged in a sexually explicit conversation via text messaging with someone who he believed to be an 11-year-old girl in an attempt to meet her and engage in sexual intercourse. Throughout the course of the conversation, he inquired about her sexual preferences, requested photos, described what he wanted to do with her, and sent pornography depicting the sexual conduct he described in words. The conversation concluded with Foreman coordinating a time for the two to meet in person to engage in sexual intercourse. On April 6, 2023, Foreman was arrested at the predetermined meet up location. A forensic analysis of his cellphone revealed approximately 10 images and 12 videos of child sexual abuse material.
“The defendant not only attempted to coerce and entice who he believed to be an 11-year-old girl to engage in sexual intercourse with him, but he also possessed child sexual abuse material of infants and toddlers,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “Through the Justice Department’s Project Safe Childhood initiative, the U.S. Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and our law enforcement partners are continuously working to combat child sexual exploitation in Nevada.”
“When children are victimized, the FBI, along with our law enforcement partners, will exert every effort to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Today's sentencing reflects our unwavering commitment to pursuing justice for our most vulnerable victims.”
On October 1, 2024, Foreman pleaded guilty to one count of coercion and enticement and one count of possession of child pornography.
In addition to imprisonment, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, Foreman must register as a sex offender and keep the registration current.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Afroza Yeasmin prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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 with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or online at https://report.cybertip.org.
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High Ranking MS-13 Leader and Fugitive Wanted for Multiple Murders Found and Arrested in Long IslandRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS — Last night, a high-ranking leader of La Mara Salvatrucha, also known as MS-13, was arrested in New York for his alleged role in a conspiracy responsible for 11 murders.
Joel Vargas-Escobar, also known as Momia, was indicted the District of Nevada and charged with racketeering conspiracy that involved 11 murders. Vargas-Escobar is also charged with two counts of murder-in-aid of racketeering and associated firearms charges. Vargas-Escobar – who previously had been deported to El Salvador and illegally reentered the United States – had been a fugitive from justice for nearly four years.
“The American people are safer following the arrest of yet another MS-13 leader thanks to the Department of Justice’s Criminal Division and Joint Task Force Vulcan,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “This terrorist entered our country illegally and is accused of orchestrating 11 murders — under President Trump’s leadership, we will not rest until this terrorist organization is completely dismantled and its members are behind bars.”
“The arrest of yet another violent and dangerous MS-13 leader is a major win for our FBI agents, law enforcement partners, and safer American streets,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Our agents and analysts are continuously coordinating across multiple field offices and investigating with our valued partners to keep this work going — and we will not stop until that work is done.”
“No matter where a violent MS-13 fugitive hides or how long it takes our skilled law enforcement partners will find them,” said United States Attorney Sigal Chattah for the District of Nevada. “We will aggressively prosecute this defendant for his alleged role in a racketeering conspiracy involving murders in Nevada and California and seek justice for victims.”
“The FBI is fully dedicated to utilizing all available resources to partner with local, state, and federal agencies in disrupting and dismantling criminal organizations that pose a threat to the communities we serve,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “Every family has the right to reside in a community free from fear and gang violence. We encourage the public to provide information that can assist us in this critical mission. Do not suffer in silence; law enforcement is prepared to support victims and promote safer communities for everyone.”
According to court documents, MS-13 is a national and transnational gang composed largely of individuals of Salvadoran or other Central American descent. MS-13 has more than 10,000 members regularly conducting gang activities in at least 10 states and Washington, D.C., with thousands more conducting gang activities in Central America and Mexico. MS-13 operates through the use of intimidation and violence, including murder, and enriching members and associates through criminal activities, including breaking into houses and stealing firearms, jewelry, cash, and other items of value, and selling narcotics. MS-13 is organized by subsets known as “cliques,” and each clique typically has one or more leaders, commonly referred to as “shot callers.”
Vargas-Escobar and his co-defendants are allegedly part of MS-13’s command and control structure in Las Vegas and California and exercised significant leadership roles in the organization’s operations. The indictment charges members of the “Parkview” clique of MS-13 with committing 11 murders over about a year in Nevada and California. According to the indictment, many of the victims were allegedly kidnapped by MS-13 members and taken to remote locations in the mountains and desert where they were tortured and killed.
Vargas-Escobar was the alleged leader of the Parkview clique of MS-13 in Las Vegas and personally ordered two of the charged murders. He was deported to El Salvador in 2018 but illegally reentered the country.
The arrest operation was coordinated by the FBI’s Criminal Investigative Division in Washington, D.C., with support from the FBI’s Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and New York field offices, the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section (VCRS), the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada, and Joint Task Force Vulcan (JTFV).
JTFV, which was created in 2019 to destroy MS-13 and now expanded to target Tren de Aragua, is comprised of U.S. Attorney’s Offices across the country, including the Southern District of New York; the Eastern District of New York; the District of New Jersey; the Northern District of Ohio; the District of Utah; the District of Massachusetts; the Eastern District of Texas; the Southern District of Florida; the Eastern District of Virginia; the Southern District of California; the District of Nevada; the District of Alaska; the Southern District of Texas; and the District of Columbia, as well as the Department of Justice’s National Security Division and the Criminal Division. Additionally, the FBI; DEA; HSI; the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives; the U.S. Marshals Service; and the Federal Bureau of Prisons have been essential law enforcement partners with JTFV.
This case is part of Operation Take Back America and an Organized Crime Drug Enforcement Task Force (OCDETF) operation. Operation Take Back America is 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. Additional information about the OCDETF Program can be found at www.justice.gov/OCDETF.
Vargas-Escobar appeared this morning for his initial court appearance before U.S. Magistrate Judge James M. Wicks of the U.S. District Court for the Eastern District of New York – Central Islip. He was ordered detained and will be transferred to the District of Nevada for trial. If convicted, Vargas-Escobar faces a mandatory sentence of life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The case is being prosecuted by Trial Attorneys Christopher Taylor and Justin Bish from the Criminal Division’s Violent Crime and Racketeering Section, and Assistant U.S. Attorneys Melanee Smith and Steven Rose for the District of Nevada, with substantial assistance from Joint Task Force Vulcan Deputy Director Jeremy Franker, as well as the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Eastern District of California.
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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Sigal Chattah Appointed Interim United States Attorney for the District of NevadaRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Sigal Chattah was sworn in today as Interim United States Attorney for the District of Nevada.
As Interim United States Attorney, Ms. Chattah supervises all federal criminal prosecutions and civil litigation involving federal interests in the District of Nevada. She leads a dedicated team of over 100 prosecutors and support professionals with offices located in Las Vegas and Reno.
Prior to joining the United States Department of Justice, Ms. Chattah opened her own law practice Chattah Law Group in Las Vegas. From 2005 to 2009, Ms. Chattah taught Political Science at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV).
Ms. Chattah received her J.D. from Widener University School of Law in Pennsylvania, and her B.S. in Political Science from UNLV.
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Foreign Nationals with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Mexican and Salvadorian nationals 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.
Wilmer Alexander Cortez-Cruz, 56, and Sergio Ivan Morelos-Torres, 52, are both charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for April 14, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Cortez-Cruz, a citizen and national of El Salvador, and Morelos-Torres, a citizen and national of Mexico, were both previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally.
On March 19, 2025, the Nevada Department of Corrections remanded Cortez-Cruz to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), based on an ICE detainer. Cortez-Cruz had previously been deported on or about October 16, 2019. Cortez-Cruz has multiple DUI convictions, to include one felony DUI conviction.
On March 18, 2025, ICE arrested Morelos-Torres who had previously been deported to Mexico on eight prior occasions. Prior to his first removal from the United States, Morelos-Torres was convicted of felony Burglary, 2nd degree, in violation of California Penal Code 459. Morelos-Torres also has two prior felony convictions for illegally reentering the United States, one in federal court in the District of Colorado, and another in the Central District of California.
If convicted, Morelos-Torres faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison, a three-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment.
If convicted, Cortez-Cruz faces a 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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Las Vegas Man Sentenced to over Three Years in Prison for Unemployment Insurance Benefits Fraud and Identity TheftRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident was sentenced Thursday by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to three and a half years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for his role in a scheme to defraud at least $385,000 in unemployment benefits from the California Employment Development Department (EDD) and identity theft.
According to court documents, from August 15, 2020, and continuing to September 18, 2020, Emelio Vladimir Rochester (28) and co-defendant Joseph Holmes Jr. conspired to obtain and possess 17 EDD debit cards issued in the names of victims without their authorization. To execute the scheme, Rochester and Holmes stole personal identifying information belonging to victims and filed fraudulent unemployment insurance claims. They then used the debit cards loaded with unemployment benefit funds to make ATM withdrawals in Santa Ana, Fountain Valley, and Garden Grove, California.
On September 18, 2020, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers conducted a traffic stop of a vehicle driven by Rochester with Holmes as a passenger. A search recovered 17 EDD debit cards, $89,710 in cash, five cell phones, three laptop computers, and a tablet. All of the debit cards recovered were issued in different names. At least $385,000 in unemployment benefits were approved for the claims associated with the debit cards, and at least $192,234.29 was withdrawn from the accounts.
“Emelio Rochester filed fraudulent unemployment insurance (UI) claims in the names of identity theft victims to receive hundreds of thousands of dollars in UI benefits to which he was not entitled. He enriched himself at the expense of a program intended to assist American workers struggling during an unprecedented pandemic,” said Quentin Heiden, Special Agent-in-Charge, Western Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG). “This sentencing underscores the commitment of the DOL-OIG and our law enforcement partners to root out waste, fraud, and abuse in DOL programs.”
Rochester pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess counterfeit and unauthorized access devices and one count of aggravated identity theft. In addition to imprisonment, he was ordered to pay $192,234 in restitution.
Co-defendant Holmes Jr. pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to possess counterfeit and unauthorized access devices and one count of aggravated identity theft. He was sentenced to 54 months in prison.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Heiden made the announcement.
The DOL-OIG investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Frayn prosecuted the case.
Suspected fraud or violations relating to any DOL program should be promptly referred to the OIG via the OIG Hotline online Complaint Form or 1-800-347-3756.
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Nevada Resident Arrested and Charged in Connection with Violent Tesla Arson in Las VegasRead the Press Release
A Las Vegas resident made his initial appearance today in U.S. District Court in Las Vegas, Nevada, to face federal charges related to an arson at a Tesla collision business.
Paul Hyon Kim, 36, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm and one count of arson. Kim was arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers on March 26. He remains in federal custody.
“The Department of Justice has been clear: anyone who participates in the wave of domestic terrorism targeting Tesla properties will suffer severe legal consequences,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will continue to find, arrest, and prosecute these attackers until the lesson is learned.”
“As promised, acts of violence and vandalism will not be tolerated, and today law enforcement personnel acted quickly to arrest an individual on charges including arson,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Under Attorney General Bondi's leadership, we will continue to pursue these investigations with the full force of law and will bring to justice anyone responsible for these attacks.”
“Today’s federal charges demonstrate our strong partnerships and collaboration with law enforcement partners and the joint pursuit to end domestic terrorism,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada. “Thank you to the detectives from the Southern Nevada Counterterrorism Center (SNCTC), FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) ARMOR (All-Hazard Regional Multi-Agency Operations and Response) unit, as well as Clark County Fire Department Arson Investigators, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, and the Justice Department’s National Security Division for their hard work and tireless efforts. We will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and remain steadfastly committed to working with our law enforcement partners to combat domestic violent extremism.”
According to allegations in the complaint, on March 18, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers responded to an emergency call about a person setting vehicles on fire and hearing gunshots at a Tesla collision business. The Clark County Fire Department arrived to suppress the fires. During the investigation, it was determined that Molotov cocktails and a .30 caliber AR-style firearm were used to damage and destroy five Tesla vehicles, and graffiti was sprayed to write “Resist” on the front of the building.
Criminal Complaint filed 03/27/2025; Case No.: 2:25-mj-00261-EJY, U.S. District Court District of Nevada. Criminal Complaint filed 03/27/2025; Case No.: 2:25-mj-00261-EJY, U.S. District Court District of Nevada.On March 26, law enforcement officials executed various state search warrants related to this case, including a search warrant at Kim’s residence. Inside the residence, they found various firearms, including an AR style rifle consistent with the firearm used in the March 18, incident and with a suppressor on it, a black gun belt with a pouch and a small drop of pink paint residue, a black hoodie, face masks, and a handwritten note with what appeared to be an escape plan.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi for the Department of Justice; Director Kash Patel of the FBI; Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada; Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF); and Sheriff Kevin McMahill for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department made the announcement.
If convicted, Kim faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison for the unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm charge and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison up to a maximum of 20 years in prison for the arson charge.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the ATF are investigating the case and with significant assistance from the Clark County Fire Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Operskalski for the District of Nevada and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
Nevada Resident Arrested and Charged in Connection with Violent Tesla Arson in Las VegasRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident made his initial appearance today in United States District Court in Las Vegas, Nevada, to face federal charges related to an arson at a Tesla collision business.
Paul Hyon Kim, 36, was charged by criminal complaint with one count of unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm and one count of arson. Kim was arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department officers on March 26. He remains in federal custody pending a detention hearing scheduled for March 28, 2025, and preliminary hearing scheduled for April 10, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Elayna J. Youchah.
“The Department of Justice has been clear: anyone who participates in the wave of domestic terrorism targeting Tesla properties will suffer severe legal consequences,” said Attorney General Pamela Bondi. “We will continue to find, arrest, and prosecute these attackers until the lesson is learned.”
“As promised, acts of violence and vandalism will not be tolerated, and today law enforcement personnel acted quickly to arrest an individual on charges including arson,” said FBI Director Kash Patel. “Under Attorney General Bondi's leadership, we will continue to pursue these investigations with the full force of law and will bring to justice anyone responsible for these attacks.”
“Today’s federal charges demonstrate our strong partnerships and collaboration with law enforcement partners and the joint pursuit to end domestic terrorism,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada. “Thank you to the detectives from the Southern Nevada Counterterrorism Center (SNCTC), FBI Joint Terrorism Task Force (JTTF) and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD) ARMOR (All-Hazard Regional Multi-Agency Operations and Response) unit, as well as Clark County Fire Department Arson Investigators, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, and the Justice Department’s National Security Division for their hard work and tireless efforts. We will prosecute this case to the fullest extent of the law and remain steadfastly committed to working with our law enforcement partners to combat domestic violent extremism.”
“The arrest announced today showcases the remarkable outcomes achievable through collaborative task force partnerships,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans, FBI Las Vegas Division. “To ensure community safety, it is essential for law enforcement at all levels to work in unison. Although our agencies have distinct roles and responsibilities, the fight against crime is a shared commitment.”
“ATF responded alongside our law enforcement partners to the targeted attack on a Tesla collision shop in Las Vegas,” said Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani, San Francisco Field Division, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (ATF). “At the forefront of ATF’s mission is combating violent crime. Crimes of this nature will not be tolerated and are a threat to public safety. Threats to public safety will be taken seriously and law enforcement will utilize our resources to ensure justice is served. ATF deployed our experts in arson related crimes in response to this incident. Those experts included members of our Arson Task Force. A task force that is a collaboration between ATF and the Clark County Fire Department. A certified fire investigator, bomb technician, certified explosive specialist, and an accelerant detection K9 were utilized at the scene. Special agents from our local field office also responded to the incident. ATF is pleased to see the arrest made today. We will continue to work alongside our law enforcement and prosecutorial partners to ensure that these targeted attacks are investigated and that the person(s) responsible are prosecuted.”
According to allegations in the complaint, on March 18, 2025, Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department patrol officers responded to an emergency call about a person setting vehicles on fire and hearing gunshots at a Tesla collision business. The Clark County Fire Department arrived to suppress the fires. During the investigation, it was determined that Molotov cocktails and a .30 caliber AR-style firearm were used to damage and destroy five Tesla vehicles, and graffiti was sprayed to write “Resist” on the front of the building.
Photo: Suspect in black hoodie, black pants, and carrying a black backpack while spray painting the glass doors of a business.
Photo: A Molotov cocktail that did not ignite laying on seat in vehicle with broken glass window
On March 26, law enforcement officials executed various state search warrants related to this case, including a search warrant at Kim’s residence. Inside the residence, they found various firearms, including an AR style rifle consistent with the firearm used in the March 18, 2025 incident and with a suppressor on it, a black gun belt with a pouch and a small drop of pink paint residue, a black hoodie, face masks, and a handwritten note with what appeared to be an escape plan.
Attorney General Pamela Bondi for the Department of Justice; Director Kash Patel of the FBI; Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada; Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans of the FBI Las Vegas Field Office; Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani of the ATF San Francisco Field Division; and Sheriff Kevin McMahill for the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, the ATF, and with significant assistance by the Clark County Fire Department. Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Operskalski for the District of Nevada and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
If convicted, Kim faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison for the unlawful possession of an unregistered firearm charge and a mandatory minimum sentence of five years in prison up to a maximum of 20 years in prison for the arson charge.
The Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, the Clark County District Attorney’s Office, the FBI, and the ATF are investigating the case and with significant assistance from the Clark County Fire Department.
Assistant U.S. Attorney Jacob Operskalski for the District of Nevada and Trial Attorney Patrick Cashman of the National Security Division’s Counterterrorism Section are prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an allegation, and all defendants are presumed innocent until proven guilty beyond a reasonable doubt in a court of law.
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usao-nv_criminal_complaint-paul_hyon_kim_2-25-mj-261_0.pdfTwo Mexican Nationals with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Two Mexican nationals residing in Las Vegas made their initial court appearances Thursday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Juan Carlos Verdin-Covarrubias, 41, and Uriel Lira-Cabrera, 44, are both charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for April 3, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Verdin-Covarrubias and Lira-Cabrera are both citizens and nationals of Mexico. They were previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally.
On March 12, 2025, the Nevada Department of Corrections remanded Verdin-Covarrubias to the custody of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) based on an ICE detainer. Verdin-Covarrubias was previously deported on or about April 21, 2006, after he was convicted for Unlawful Sale of a Controlled Substance in the Second Judicial District Court, Washoe County, Nevada. After illegally returning to the country, he was again convicted of drug-related offenses, Sale of a Controlled Substance and High-level Possession of a Controlled Substance, this time in the Eighth Judicial District Court, Clark County, Nevada, and on February 16, 2022, Verdin-Covarrubias was sentenced to 36 to 96 months of imprisonment.
On March 5, 2025, ICE in Las Vegas, Nevada, arrested Lira-Cabrera who had previously been deported on six occasions between February 5, 2007, and November 27, 2021. Prior to his first deportation Lira-Cabrera was convicted of Assault with Deadly Weapon by Means Likely to Produce Great Bodily Injury in the Superior Court, Los Angeles County, California. Lira-Cabrera also has two prior felony convictions for illegally reentering the United States, one in federal court in the District of Arizona, and another in the District of Nevada.
Both face 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.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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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Felon Indicted for Possession of Stolen FirearmsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident who has prior felony convictions made his initial court appearance Wednesday before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe for allegedly being in possession of nearly 30 stolen firearms.
According to allegations contained in the indictment and statements made in court, on or about January 25, 2025, Francisco Iniguez (37) possessed 28 stolen firearms. Some of the stolen firearms included handguns, rifles and shotguns. He has prior felony convictions including possession of a firearm by a felon, driving or taking a vehicle without consent, grand theft, identity theft, and burglary in the second degree, all occurring in Los Angeles County, California. Iniguez is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm due to his prior felony convictions.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Iniguez with one count of possession of stolen firearms and one count of prohibited person in possession of firearms. A jury trial has been scheduled to begin on May 19, 2025, before United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva.
If convicted, the maximum statutory penalty is 25 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Jennifer Cicolani for the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) made the announcement.
This case was investigated by ATF and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
If you have information about illegal firearms activity, you are urged to submit a tip to ATF by calling the hotline at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867) or through the ReportIt mobile app.
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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Cuban National Indicted for Bank RobberyRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Cuban national with an outstanding warrant of removal made his initial court appearance Wednesday before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe for allegedly robbing a bank with a dangerous weapon.
According to allegations contained in the indictment and statements made in court, on February 1, 2025, Anoy Lopez-Bles, 50, robbed a bank with a replica firearm.
Lopez-Bles has six prior felony convictions including bank robbery in the District of Nevada, and multiple burglary and drug felonies in Nevada. He has five prior misdemeanor convictions including domestic violence, drug, and larceny convictions in Nevada. He failed to appear 20 times and has violated his probations or parole over 10 times.
Lopez-Bles is charged with one count of bank robbery. A jury trial has been scheduled to begin May 19, 2025, before Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon.
If convicted, Lopez-Bles faces the maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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. The United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada is prosecuting the case.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Career Offender Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Distribution of Methamphetamine and Possession of FirearmsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A career offender residing in Las Vegas was sentenced today by United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey to 10 years in prison to be followed by four years of supervised release for selling large amounts of methamphetamine from his residence and possessing several firearms.
According to court documents, between November 2021 and October 5, 2022, Eric Langpop conspired to sell methamphetamine, a Schedule II controlled substance, from his home. As part of the investigation, the DEA recovered over a pound of methamphetamine from the defendant. During the execution of a search warrant at Langpop’s residence, law enforcement found methamphetamine and several firearms, including pistols, shotguns, a rifle, an assault rifle, and two silencers.
Photographs of two firearms and a silencer recovered from defendant’s home
Photograph of methamphetamine near a hand and scissors for scale
Langpop has prior felony convictions for trafficking in controlled substances, including a felony sale of a controlled substance conviction in 2009; separate sale and transport of a controlled substance convictions in 2013; and a transport of a controlled substance conviction in 2016, all in Clark County, Nevada. He also has four separate domestic violence battery convictions. He is prohibited by law from possessing firearms due to his felony and domestic violence convictions.
Langpop pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to distribute a controlled substance and one count of felon in possession of a firearm.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement.
The DEA investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Joshua Brister prosecuted the case.
This case 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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Duo Arrested and Charged for Human Smuggling ConspiracyRead the Press Release
RENO – A father and son residing in the Reno area were charged and made their initial court appearances Tuesday before United States Magistrate Judge Carla L. Baldwin for their alleged roles in a human smuggling conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens in the Reno area.
“The criminal complaint alleges the father and son conspired to exploit vulnerable individuals for profit,” said Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada. “Human smuggling operations threaten our national security. The U.S. Attorney’s Office is committed to continually working with HSI and our local law enforcement partners to investigate and prosecute those who smuggle illegal aliens into the United States.”
"A collaborative operation of this scale demonstrates the importance of intelligence-driven investigations, followed by coordinated law enforcement action," said Homeland Security Investigations Las Vegas acting Special Agent in Charge Lester R. Hayes Jr. "We will continue to disrupt and dismantle criminal organizations that engage in the exploitation and trafficking of humans while combatting other criminal activities that impact the communities of Northern Nevada."
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made in court, beginning in July 2021, and continuing to March 11, 2025, Carlos Recinos-Valdez (43) and his son Kevin Recinos-Ruano (20) conspired with each other to harbor illegal aliens for personal financial gain. Law enforcement executed a criminal search warrant at Recinos-Valdez’s residence, leading to the recovery of firearms, fraudulent documents, and other evidence.
It is alleged that Recinos-Valdez orchestrated the illegal smuggling of aliens through a Transnational Criminal Organization (TCO) with a network of human smugglers and traffickers located throughout Guatemala, Mexico, and the United States. He has locations in apartment complexes where he houses the illegal aliens in the Reno area. Recinos-Valdez and the TCO he works for charge thousands of dollars for each person smuggled into the United States. Once in Reno, Recinos-Valdez demands money from the victims to pay off their debt to the TCO. He would meet the victims at their residence or place of employment to collect regular payments for smuggling fees; and victims have been threatened with physical violence if payments were not received. Recinos-Ruano assisted in collecting payments and acted as an enforcer.
Recinos-Valdez is charged with one count of conspiracy to harbor aliens; three counts of harboring illegal aliens; and two counts of aiding and abetting attempted interference with commerce by extortion. Recinos-Ruano is charged with one count of conspiracy to harbor illegal aliens.
If convicted, Recinos-Valdez faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison; and Recinos-Ruano faces a maximum statutory penalty of 10 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The charges are the result of an HSI-led criminal investigation with assistance from the Reno Police Department, the Sparks Police Department, the Douglas County Sheriff’s Office, and the Washoe County Sheriff’s Office. Assistant United States Attorney Andrew Keenan is prosecuting the case.
A complaint is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Two Mexican Nationals with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Two Mexican nationals 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 Miguel Gutierrez-Chavarria, 40, and Luis Abel Soto-Rodriguez, 33, are both charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for March 31, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Gutierrez-Chavarria and Soto-Rodriguez are both citizens and nationals of Mexico. They were previously deported and removed from the United States and reentered the United States illegally.
On February 20, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Gutierrez-Chavarria in Las Vegas, Nevada. Gutierrez-Chavarria had previously been deported on or about April 5, 2022, and again on September 6, 2022. Gutierrez-Chavarria has prior felony convictions from 2007 for two counts of Trafficking a Controlled Substance. He was sentenced to 10 to 25 years in the custody of the Nevada Department of Corrections. On December 13, 2024, Gutierrez-Chavarria was arrested by officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department for three counts Sell/Transport Controlled Substance and Trafficking Controlled Substance. If convicted, Gutierrez-Chavarria 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.
On March 5, 2025, ICE arrested Soto-Rodriguez who had previously been deported on four occasions between May 9, 2017, and June 1, 2022. The United States District Court, District of Arizona, convicted Soto-Rodriguez of reentry of removed alien on May 1, 2020, and again on February 24, 2022. Soto-Rodriguez 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.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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 Indicted for Forced Labor Trafficking, Illegal Acts Related to Documents, and Falsifying Immigration DocumentsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident made his initial court appearance on Thursday before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler for allegedly forcing three victims from Cuba into domestic servitude, confiscating their passports and other identifications, and providing false statements on immigration documents.
According to allegations contained in court documents and statements made in court, beginning on or about September 20, 2023, to about July 31, 2024, Rafael Juan Mitjans (50) took the passports, immigration documents, and other government identification documents belonging to three victims with the intent to restrict the victim’s ability to move and travel in order to maintain the labor and services of the victims.
Further, as alleged, between June 18, 2023, and September 17, 2023, Mitjans provided false statements to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services that he would provide the victims with basic living needs, including money each month, a room with a bed, television, desk, and laptop, clothing, shoes, hygiene products, and three meals per day. He knew the statements on the immigration forms were false.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment on March 12, 2025, charging Mitjans with three counts of forced labor, three counts of unlawful conduct with respect to documents in furtherance of trafficking and forced labor, and three counts of false statements on immigration documents. A jury trial has been scheduled before United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II on May 19, 2025.
If convicted, the maximum statutory penalty is 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and HSI Las Vegas acting Special Agent in Charge Lester R. Hayes, Jr. made the announcement.
HSI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department investigated the case with assistance from the Clark County School District Police Department, the U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General, and the Diplomatic Security Service. Assistant United States Attorney Steven Rose is prosecuting the case.
To report criminal violations of forced labor, contact the Homeland Security Investigations tip line at 1-866-347-2423 or submit an HSI tip form online.
An indictment is merely an accusation, and a defendant is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
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Felon Sentenced to Prison for Drug and Ammunition OffensesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who has prior felony convictions was sentenced today to five years in prison for distributing approximately 1,000 pills containing fentanyl and unlawfully possessing ammunition.
Edward Rodriguez, 37, pleaded guilty to one count of distribution of fentanyl and one count of felon in possession of ammunition. In addition to imprisonment, United States District Judge Richard F. Boulware II sentenced Rodriguez to four years of supervised release.
According to court documents, on October 6, 2022, Rodriguez sold approximately 1,000 pills containing fentanyl, a Schedule II controlled substance, in exchange for money. Later, on October 18, 2022, when an officer with the Mesquite Police Department attempted to conduct a traffic stop, Rodriguez began to drive faster through the school zone and neighborhood causing children to have to jump out of the way of his car. He was later stopped inside a store carrying a backpack containing fentanyl pills, heroin, car keys, a magazine loaded with .40 caliber ammunition, and a hypodermic needle with methamphetamine. Furthermore, Rodriguez admitted that inside his car was a shotgun and a 40mm semi-automatic handgun with no serial number which was modified with a machine gun conversion device.
Rodriguez has prior felony convictions for forgery, attempted burglary, and ex-felon in possession of a firearm, all in Clark County, Nevada, and distribution of a controlled substance and felon in possession of a firearm in the District of Nevada. He is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm and ammunition due to the prior felony convictions.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Melanee Smith prosecuted the case.
If you are aware of controlled substance violations in your community — which may include the growing, manufacture, distribution or trafficking of controlled substances — please report your anonymous tip through the DEA Tip Line at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip.
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Mexican National Indicted for Series of Armed Robberies with Privately Made FirearmRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national residing in Las Vegas made his initial court appearance today for allegedly robbing four taco vendors while brandishing an unserialized privately made firearm.
“The defendant is accused of committing a spree of violent armed robberies over a one-week period,” said Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada. “Violent crime has no place in our community. We are grateful for our federal and local law enforcement partners and their commitment to keeping our neighborhoods safer.”
“Today’s indictment should send a clear message that the FBI and our partners will not tolerate this type of violent activity,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “The suspect, who was in the country illegally, committed brazen acts and instilled fear in our community and put our citizens at risk. We will continue to work closely with our law enforcement partners to keep firearms out of the hands of those prohibited from being able to possess them.”
According to allegations contained in the indictment and statements made during court proceedings, Jose Manuel Arce-Martinez, 38, is a national of Mexico unlawfully residing in the United States.
As alleged, from January 21, 2025 to January 26, 2025, Arce-Martinez committed four armed robberies of restaurants and food trucks in Las Vegas. In each robbery, he brandished a privately made subcompact .40 caliber semiautomatic pistol, made in part with a Polymer80 PF940SC grip, and threatened employees. Arce-Martinez stole money from the businesses and items belonging to the employees including two cell phones, a gold necklace, a jacket, and a wallet containing debit cards, a driver’s license, and a social security card.
Arce-Martinez is charged with four counts of interference with commerce by robbery, four counts of brandishing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, and two counts of prohibited person in possession of a firearm or ammunition.
United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler scheduled a jury trial before Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to begin on May 19, 2025.
If convicted, the maximum statutory penalty is life in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
This case was investigated by the FBI and the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Dan Cowhig is prosecuting the case.
Submit a tip about a federal crime or report a threat to the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI (1-800-225-5324) or online at tips.fbi.gov.
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 Return Preparer Pleads Guilty to Filing False Tax Returns for ClientsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – The operator of a Las Vegas tax return preparation business pleaded guilty today to preparing false income tax returns on behalf of her clients causing at least $550,000 in tax loss.
According to court documents and statements made in court, since at least 2007, Keisy Altagracia Sosa has operated National Tax Service, a tax return preparation business in Las Vegas, Nevada. From 2016 to 2021, Sosa prepared and filed with the IRS false tax returns on behalf of clients. These tax returns included falsely claiming dependents; claiming fictitious Schedule A expenses, such as sales taxes paid and unreimbursed employee expenses; and claiming fictitious Schedule C expenses purportedly associated with a business operated by the taxpayer. Sosa continued to prepare false returns even after the IRS sent multiple letters notifying her that returns she filed appeared inaccurate, informing her that she may not be meeting her due diligence requirements, reminding her of those obligations, and directing her to resources with more information about those obligations. Sosa caused at least $550,000 in tax loss to the IRS.
Sosa pleaded guilty to one count of aiding and assisting in the preparation and filing of a false tax return. Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon scheduled sentencing for June 11, 2025. The maximum statutory penalty is three years in prison as well as a period of supervised release and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Carissa Messick for the IRS Criminal Investigation Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by IRS Criminal Investigation. Assistant United States Attorneys Tony Lopez and Benjamin Shiver are prosecuting the case.
Taxpayers should remain vigilant against unscrupulous tax preparers. Tax preparers that promise larger refunds than their competition may place taxpayers at risk of being part of a criminal scheme. The IRS urges all taxpayers to verify the information on their tax return is correct before filing.
For more tips on how to safeguard yourself against unscrupulous tax preparers, and for information on how to find a preparer, visit the IRS website. The IRS also offers tips on choosing a tax professional as a small business taxpayer. Additionally, the IRS has launched a free directory of federal tax preparers to help taxpayers find professional, credentialed prepares recognized by the agency or who hold an Annual Filing Season Program Record of Completion.
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Former Nye County Captain Pleads Guilty to Federal Civil Rights Violation and Wire FraudRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A former captain with the Nye County Sheriff’s Office pleaded guilty today for violating the civil rights of the former CEO of Valley Electric Association (VEA), a Pahrump-based utility cooperative, and for committing wire fraud.
“It is the duty of all law enforcement to protect and serve the community,” said Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada. “Instead, the defendant violated his oath and abused his power. We will continue to work with the FBI to protect the constitutional rights of all individuals and ensure that those who violate positions of public trust are held accountable for their actions.”
“Law enforcement officers are granted specific powers by the government to protect the rights of the public and prevent misconduct,” said Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division. “When individuals in official roles betray the trust of their communities by misusing that power, they compromise the diligent efforts of all law enforcement personnel. No individual is above the law, and the FBI remains committed to investigating abuses of power under color of law as one of our paramount responsibilities.”
According to court documents and statements made in court, on or about February 26, 2019, David E. Boruchowitz, 44, was a Deputy Sheriff with the Nye County Sheriff’s Office in Nye County, Nevada. Boruchowitz admitted that while acting under color of law in that position, he arrested Angela Evans without probable cause on charges of embezzlement under Nevada law. In making the arrest, he willfully deprived Evans of her right under the Fourth Amendment of the Constitution of the United States to free of unreasonable seizure without probable cause.
Further, Boruchowitz admitted that, on or about February 26, 2019, he devised a scheme to defraud the VEA Board of Directors of a seat on the Board of Directors. As a part of the scheme, he arrested Evans without probable cause. He knew the fraud scheme would influence a member of the VEA Board of Directors to part with his or her position. As a part of the scheme, he posted a press release announcing the arrest of Evans to the Nye County Sheriff’s Office’s Facebook page.
Boruchowitz pleaded guilty to one count of deprivation of rights under color of law and one count of wire fraud. Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon scheduled sentencing for June 10, 2025. The total maximum statutory penalty for all offenses is 21 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
The FBI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorneys Steven Myhre and Justin Washburne are prosecuting the case.
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Ohio Man Sentenced to 15 Years in Prison for Ordering, Receiving, and Paying for Child Sexual Abuse Material on Social MediaRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Waterville, Ohio, resident was sentenced today by United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva to 15 years in prison to be followed by a lifetime term of supervised release for the sexual exploitation of children that he met on social media messaging applications and then coerced them to make and send him child sexual abuse material.
According to court documents, on September 25, 2023, Todd Maxson, 56, began a conversation with a 14-year-old girl in Nevada via Telegram, an internet-based social media application that allows users to privately message each other. Almost daily between September 25, 2023, and October 19, 2023, Maxson ordered, received, and paid for sexually explicit images and videos of the victim via Cash App. Additionally, Maxson sought out females expressing suicidal or depressive tendencies and encouraged the behavior by requesting sexual content depicting self-harm, cutting, and bleeding. He would send knives to the children to help them make the videos.
In October 2024, Maxson pleaded guilty to one count each of sexual exploitation of children, receipt of child pornography, and possession of child pornography. In addition to imprisonment, under the Sex Offender Registration and Notification Act, Maxson must register as a sex offender and keep the registration current.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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 Attorney Afroza Yeasmin prosecuted the case.
This case was brought as part of Project Safe Childhood, a nationwide initiative to combat the epidemic of child sexual exploitation and abuse launched in May 2006 by the Justice Department. Led by U.S. Attorneys’ Offices and the Child Exploitation and Obscenity Section, 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 with information on suspected child sexual exploitation can contact the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children by calling 1-800-THE-LOST (1-800-843-5678) or online at https://report.cybertip.org.
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Foreign Nationals with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Mexican and El Salvadorian nationals 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.
Edwin Geovany Salazar-Giron, 40, and Javier Anaya-Acosta, 43, are both charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. Preliminary hearings for both defendants are scheduled for March 20, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Nancy J. Koppe.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaints and statements made during court proceedings, Salazar-Giron, a citizen and national of El Salvador, and Anaya-Acosta, a citizen and national of Mexico, were both previously deported and removed from the United States and re-entered the United States illegally.
On February 25, 2025, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrested Salazar-Giron at the Henderson Police Department in Henderson, Nevada. Salazar-Giron had previously been deported on or about July 17, 2015. Salazar-Giron has prior felony convictions for Trafficking Cocaine and Possession of Firearm or Knife During Commission of or Attempt to Commit Certain Crimes. Both convictions were prior to his removal in 2015.
On February 27, 2025, ICE arrested Anaya-Acosta who had previously been deported on both March 5, 2010, and again on May 18, 2015. Prior to his first removal from the United States, Anaya-Acosta was convicted of Illegal Alien in Possession of Firearm and Ammunition, a felony violation of 18 U.S.C. § 922(g)(5)(A).
If convicted, Salazar-Giron and Anaya-Acosta both face 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.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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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Reno Man Sentenced to 10 Years in Prison for Assaulting Federal Officer During ArrestRead the Press Release
RENO – A Reno resident was sentenced today by United States District Judge Miranda M. Du to 10 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release for assaulting a federal officer with a deadly or dangerous weapon during the execution of his arrest warrant.
According to evidence presented at trial, on February 16, 2022, Matthew John Nason, 39, fired a handgun in the direction of a Deputy United States Marshal while the Deputy was attempting to serve a valid arrest warrant for Nason and his girlfriend at Nason’s residence. Nason had an outstanding arrest warrant for drug and firearms violations out of the District of North Dakota. The 10-year sentence is to run consecutive to the sentence Nason received in the District of North Dakota.
In November 2024, following the three-day trial, a jury convicted Nason of assault of a federal officer with a dangerous weapon.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada, Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division, and Marshal Gary Schofield for the United States Marshals Service made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI, United States Marshals Service, and the Reno Police Department. Assistant United States Attorneys Megan Rachow and Randy St. Clair prosecuted the case.
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Mexican National Sentenced for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced Monday by United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey for being found in the United States after previously being removed from the country.
According to court documents, Rodrigo Valdovinos-Hernandez, also known as “Rodrigo Tejada-Valdovinos” and “Rodrigo Valdovinos,” 38, is a citizen of Mexico. He was found by officials with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) in Las Vegas, Nevada on May 25, 2023, after he was arrested by Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department on state charges. ICE had previously removed him from the country twice – in September 2009 and again in November 2012.
After spending about 18 months in federal custody, Valdovinos-Hernandez was sentenced to time served. This is his third felony conviction while unlawfully present in the United States, as he was previously convicted in Eighth Judicial District Court in Clark County, Nevada for Attempt Burglary and Possession of a Stolen Vehicle.
Valdovinos-Hernandez pleaded guilty to one count of deported alien found in the United States.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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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Mexican National Sentenced for Selling Fentanyl PillsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national was sentenced today by United States District Judge Gloria M. Navarro to 18 months in prison to be followed by one year of supervised release for his role in a drug trafficking organization to sell fentanyl pills from Mexico in Las Vegas.
According to court documents and admissions made in court, Jorge Olivarria-Gomez (22) came to the United States illegally to work on behalf of a drug trafficking organization to sell fentanyl in the United States. He admitted that on or about April 26, 2023, a co-defendant directed him to deliver 500 fentanyl pills. When he arrived at the parking lot, he sold the pills for $750.
In 2023, the DEA Clark County Gang Task Force began investigating co-defendant Esteban Quezada, also known as “Pelon,” who was running a drug trafficking organization from Mexico. Quezada coordinated the delivery of drugs from Mexico to associates in the United States, including in Las Vegas, Nevada. Quezada would send couriers from Nayrit, Mexico to the United States to distribute the narcotics to customers. Initially, Olivarria-Gomez was working as a courier in Las Vegas and then eventually moved to Colorado where he continued to distribute narcotics.
In December 2024, Olivarria-Gomez pleaded guilty to distribution of a controlled substance.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the DEA. Assistant United States Attorney Melanee Smith prosecuted the case.
If you are aware of controlled substance violations in your community — which may include the growing, manufacture, distribution or trafficking of controlled substances — please submit your anonymous tip through the DEA Tip Line at https://www.dea.gov/submit-tip.
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Honduran National with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Honduran National residing in Las Vegas made his initial court appearance Friday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after previously being removed from the country.
Joel Pacheco-Hernandez, 46, is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 14, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Maximiliano D. Couvillier, III.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Pacheco-Hernandez is a citizen and national of Honduras who was previously deported and removed from the United States on September 11, 2015, and re-entered the United States illegally on or before May 5, 2022.
In May 2022, the North Las Vegas, Nevada, Municipal Court convicted Pacheco-Hernandez of battery. In November 2022, the Clark County District Attorney filed a Criminal Complaint with the Justice Court, Las Vegas, Nevada, for the charges of Insurance Fraud and Forgery. On January 22, 2025, Pacheco-Hernandez was arrested for Use/Possess Person ID of Another to Avoid/Delay Prosecution, and on an active bench warrant. On February 13, 2025, Pacheco-Hernandez was convicted in Clark County of conspiracy to commit a crime, and he was sentenced to imprisonment. Pacheco-Hernandez has prior convictions for Conspiracy to Commit Larceny, and an Aggravated Felony Robbery, prior to his first removal in 2015.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) learned of Pacheco-Hernandez’s presence in the United States on January 23, 2025, after he was arrested by state law enforcement, in Clark County, Nevada. On February 21, 2025, ICE arrested Pacheco-Hernandez at the North Las Vegas Community Correctional Center.
If convicted, Pacheco-Hernandez 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.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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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Los Angeles County Resident Sentenced to Prison for Forging over $1.2 Million in Money OrdersRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Lancaster, California, man was sentenced today by Chief United States District Judge Andrew P. Gordon to 57 months in prison followed by three years of supervised release for depositing over $1.2 million in forged money orders into bank accounts then withdrawing cash from the accounts.
According to court documents, from July 31, 2013 to February 13, 2019, Sterlyn Lee Smith Jr., 49, and dozens of others executed a scheme to deposit altered money orders into bank accounts in other people’s names and then withdrawing the funds before the banks discovered the money orders were forged. As part of the scheme, Smith and others purchased money orders at United States Post Offices in California and Nevada. Then, they fraudulently altered the money orders to high dollar amount money orders. Smith and others then deposited the fraudulent money orders into bank accounts at two banks in Nevada and California and made cash withdrawals from the accounts.
Over the course of this six-year bank fraud scheme, Smith and others deposited and attempted to deposit more than 1,200 forged money orders totaling more than $1.2 million dollars.
Smith pleaded guilty to two counts of bank fraud, one count for each of the banks Smith victimized. In addition to imprisonment, Smith was ordered to pay $432,482.63 in restitution.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Inspector in Charge Glen Henderson of the United States Postal Inspections Service (USPIS), Phoenix Division made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the USPIS. Assistant United States Attorneys Kimberly Frayn and Justin Washburne prosecuted the case.
To report a fraud complaint, call the U.S. Postal Service Fraud Complaint Hotline at 1-800-372-8347 or visit the USPIS website at www.usps.com/postalinspectors.
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Felon Sentenced to 26 Years in Prison for Armed Robberies and Assault of Federal OfficerRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas man who has prior felony convictions was sentenced today in two separate cases to a total of 26 years in prison to be followed by three years of supervised release. He admitted to committing armed robberies of two jewelry stores and assaulting a detention officer while in custody.
According to court documents, on December 12, 2016, Wyatt Scott Peterson (42) entered EZ Pawn in Las Vegas and demanded the keys to the jewelry case. During the course of the robbery, he brandished a 9mm semi-automatic handgun to intimidate employees into not resisting and complying with his demands. The firearm was discharged into a display case during the robbery. Peterson stole at least $40,000 and left the store. Then, on December 21, 2016, Peterson entered Super Pawn in Las Vegas and demanded the keys to the jewelry case. He stole 29 rings, three pairs of earrings, and five bracelets combined worth more than $20,000 before he left the store.
Peterson has prior felony convictions including identity theft in Colville, Washington; Possession of a controlled substance with intent to deliver in Spoke, Washington; and Attempt carrying concealed firearm or other deadly weapon in Clark County, Nevada. He is prohibited by law from possessing a firearm.
In December 2016, Peterson was charged and detained pending trial for the armed robbery case. He was housed at Nevada Southern Detention Center in Pahrump, Nevada. While in custody, he confronted a detention officer at the stairwell and began punching the detention officer.
Peterson pleaded guilty to one count each of commerce by robbery, possessing a firearm during and in relation to a crime of violence, felon in possession of a firearm, and assault on a federal officer.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division made the announcement.
The case was investigated by the FBI and Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Jim Fang prosecuted the cases.
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Las Vegas Man Pleads Guilty to Extortion, Stalking, Threatening Text Messages and Money LaunderingRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas resident pleaded guilty on Feb. 21. to extortion, money laundering, stalking, and sending threatening text messages to injure and kill two people and their families in California.
Idriss Qibaa, 28, was charged by a superseding criminal information. He 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 District Judge Richard F. Boulware II scheduled sentencing for May 22, 2025.
According to court documents and admissions Qibaa made in court, On April 29, 2024, he threatened force and extorted $200,000 from a victim. In part of the extortion, on March 7 and 8, 2024, Qibaa obtained $63,500 worth of cryptocurrency. In June and July 2024, Qibaa 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, Qibaa sent text messages containing threats to injure and kill another victim.
At sentencing, Qibaa faces a maximum sentence of 20 years’ imprisonment for the extortion charge; 10 years’ imprisonment for each of the money laundering charges; five years’ imprisonment for the stalking charge; and five years’ imprisonment for each of the interstate communications containing a threat to injure charges. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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 is prosecuting the case.
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Three Defendants Sentenced to Prison for Methamphetamine Trafficking ConspiracyRead the Press Release
RENO – Three individuals were sentenced Tuesday for their involvement in a drug trafficking organization to distribute large quantities of methamphetamine in Reno. They all participated in multiple drug buys involving pounds of methamphetamine for thousands of dollars, totaling over 33 kilograms of methamphetamine distributed into Reno.
Saul Nolasco (25), of Lodi, California, and Maria Valenzuela (64) and Xochitl Sanchez-Pacheco (38), both of Sinaloa, Mexico, each pleaded guilty to conspiracy to distribute and possess with intent to distribute a controlled substance. United States District Judge Miranda M. Du sentenced Nolasco to 41 months in prison, Valenzuela to 33 months in prison, and Sanchez-Pacheco to 30 months in prison.
According to court documents and admissions made in court, from January 20, 2023 to October 8, 2023, Nolasco, Valenzuela, and Sanchez-Pacheco conspired together to distribute 33 kilograms of methamphetamine into the Reno community. Methamphetamine is a Schedule II controlled substance.
Nolasco worked with his brother who was located in Mexico. Nolasco acted as the drug trafficking organization’s boots on the ground in Nevada and California. He collected and handled cash payments; obtained and stored large quantities of methamphetamine at his house; and distributed large quantities of methamphetamine to various buyers in Reno and elsewhere.
Valenzuela conducted multiple drug transactions involving pounds of methamphetamine, where she was responsible for the delivery of methamphetamine as well as the collection of cash payments of thousands of dollars behalf of the drug trafficking organization. In November 2023, Valenzuela was caught at the border with her daughter moving 97 pounds of methamphetamine across the U.S.-Mexico border. The van was outfitted with trap compartments used to conceal the drugs.
Sanchez-Pacheco delivered large quantities of methamphetamine in both Reno and Modesto, California. She collected the money associated with those deliveries, one of which involved $5,500.
The fourth co-defendant, Bobby Jo Kissel (54), pleaded guilty in October 2024 and is awaiting sentencing.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Assistant Special Agent in Charge Kevin Adams for the DEA Las Vegas District Office made the announcement.
The DEA investigated the case, along with the Regional Narcotics Unit, Washoe County Sherriff’s Office K-9 Unit, Modesto Police Department, HSI, USMS, Nevada Department of Investigation and Nevada Highway Patrol. Assistant United States Attorney Andolyn Johnson prosecuted the case.
This case 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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Nevada Woman Indicted in Romance Scheme to Defraud SeniorsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas, Nevada, woman has been charged in a 21-count superseding indictment for allegedly luring older men she met through online dating services and stealing their monies for her personal benefit.
Aurora Phelps, 43, with residences in Las Vegas and Guadalajara, Mexico, is charged 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.
According to allegations contained in the superseding indictment, from July 1, 2021, to December 9, 2022, Phelps would meet older men on dating websites or services, then meet them in-person. It was part of her scheme to drug the older men to gain unauthorized access to and steal money from their financial accounts to personally benefit herself and her family members.
The superseding indictment stems from a two-year investigation by the FBI Las Vegas Division. The superseding indictment was returned by a federal grand jury in September 2023.
Photo of defendant Aurora Phelps, from court document in United States of America v. Aurora Phelps, number 2:23-cr-0167-CDS-DJA, in U.S. District Court for the District of Nevada.
In romance scams, the scammer gains an unsuspecting individual’s affection and trust, then uses the illusion of a romantic or close relationship to manipulate and/or steal from the victim. These schemes not only cause significant financial losses, but also deeply impact the lives of victims.
If convicted on all counts, Phelps faces a maximum statutory penalty of life in prison.
The charges were announced by Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada and Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division.
The investigation is a result of the close cooperation between the United States and Mexican authorities. The Justice Department’s Office of International Affairs is providing significant assistance in this case. Assistant United States Attorneys Daniel R. Schiess and Steven J. Rose are prosecuting the case.
An FBI website has been established seeking to identify potential victims. Any individuals who believe they or someone they know may have been victimized by Phelps or otherwise have information related to the case are encouraged to contact the FBI at 1-800-CALL-FBI or complete a survey via this website https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/seeking-victim-information-in-aurora-phelps-investigation.
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.
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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aurora_superseding_indictment_coversheet_508_0.pdf aurora_ex_parte_motion_to_unseal_coversheet_508_0.pdfMujer De Nevada Acusada De Estafa Romántica De Adultos MayoresRead the Press Release
Las Vegas – Se le han imputado 21 cargos a una mujer de Las Vegas, Nevada, en una acusación formal modificada por presuntamente seducir a hombres mayores que conoció a través de servicios de citas en línea y robarles su dinero para beneficio personal.
Aurora Phelps, de 43 años de edad y con residencias en Las Vegas, Nevada y Guadalajara, México, está acusada de siete cargos de fraude electrónico; tres cargos de fraude postal; seis cargos de fraude bancario; tres cargos de robo de identidad; y dos cargos de secuestro. Phelps se encuentra actualmente detenida en México.
Según las acusaciones contenidas en la acusación formal modificada, desde el 1 de julio de 2021 hasta el 9 de diciembre de 2022, Phelps conocía a hombres mayores por medio de sitios web o servicios de citas, y luego los conocía en persona. Parte de su plan era drogar a los hombres para obtener acceso no autorizado y robar dinero de sus cuentas financieras para beneficiarse personalmente a si misma y a los miembros de su familia.
La acusación formal modificada se deriva de una investigación de dos años realizada por la División del FBI de Las Vegas. La acusación formal modificada fue presentada por el gran jurado federal en septiembre de 2023.
Foto de la acusada Aurora Phelps, tomada del documento judicial en Estados Unidos de América vs. Aurora Phelps, número 2:23-cr-0167-CDS-DJA, en el Tribunal de Distrito de los Estados Unidos para el Distrito de Nevada.
En las estafas de romance, el estafador gana el afecto y la confianza de un individuo desprevenido, luego utiliza la ilusión de una relación romántica o cercana para manipular y/o robar a la víctima. Estos esquemas no solo causan pérdidas financieras, sino que también tienen un profundo impacto en la vida de las víctimas.
Si es declarada culpable de todos los cargos, Phelps se enfrenta a una pena máxima de cadena perpetua.
Los cargos fueron anunciados por la fiscal interina de los Estados Unidos Sue Fahami para el Distrito de Nevada y el agente especial a cargo Spencer L. Evans para la División del FBI de Las Vegas.
La investigación es el resultado de la estrecha cooperación entre las autoridades estadounidenses y mexicanas. La Oficina de Asuntos Internacionales del Departamento de Justicia está proporcionando asistencia significativa en este caso. Los fiscales federales adjuntos Daniel R. Scheiss y Steven J. Rose están procesando el caso.
Se ha creado un sitio web del FBI que busca identificar posibles víctimas. Se recomienda a cualquier persona que crea que él o alguien que conoce puede haber sido víctima de Phelps o que tenga información relacionada con el caso, se comunique con el FBI al 1-800-CALL-FBI o complete una encuesta a través del sitio web https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/victim-services/seeking-victim-information/seeking-victim-information-in-aurora-phelps-investigation.
Si usted o alguien que conoce tiene 60 años o más y ha experimentado fraude financiero, los profesionales con experiencia están a la orden por la Línea Informativa Nacional de Fraude a Personas Mayores, 1-833-FRAUD-11 (1-833-372-8311). Esta línea directa del Departamento de Justicia, administrada por la Oficina de Victimas de Delitos, puede brindar apoyo personalizado a quienes llamen evaluando las necesidades de la victima e identificando los próximos pasos pertinentes. Los administradores de casos identificarán a los organismos de informes apropiados, proveerán información a las personas que llamen para ayudarles a denunciar, conectar directamente con los organismos apropiados y facilitarán recursos y recomendaciones, basado en los particulares de cada caso. Denunciar es el primer paso y puede ayudar a las autoridades a identificar a quienes cometen fraude. De igual manera, denunciar ciertas pérdidas financieras debido a fraude lo más antes posible, puede aumentar la probabilidad de recuperar las pérdidas. La línea directa esta abierta de lunes a viernes de 10:00 a.m. a 6:00 p.m., hora oficial del oriente. El inglés, español y otros idiomas están disponibles.
Más información sobre los esfuerzos del departamento para ayudar a los estadounidenses de edad avanzada está disponible en la página web de la Iniciativa de Justicia para Ancianos, que se puede encontrar en www.elderjustice.gov. Para obtener más información sobre la Subdivisión de Protección al Consumidor y sus medidas de aplicación, visite www.justice.gov/civil/consumer-protection-branch. Las denuncias por fraude a personas mayores pueden presentarse ante la Comisión Federal de Comercio en www.reportfraud.ftc.gov/ o llamando al 877-FTC-HELP. El Departamento de Justicia proporciona una variedad de recursos relacionados con la victimización por fraude a personas mayores a través de su Oficina para Víctimas de Delitos en www.ovc.gov.
Una acusación formal es simplemente una alegación. Todos los acusados se presumen inocentes hasta que se demuestre su culpabilidad más allá de toda duda razonable en un tribunal de justicia.
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aurora_superseding_indictment_coversheet_508_0.pdf aurora_ex_parte_motion_to_unseal_coversheet_508_0.pdfOwner of Las Vegas Company Indicted in $24 Million Cryptocurrency Ponzi SchemeRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas business owner made his initial appearance in court yesterday for allegedly misrepresenting that his company was a profitable, up-and-running artificial intelligence company that mined cryptocurrency, verified cryptocurrency transactions, paid fixed rates of return on investments, and provided a 100% money back guarantee. In total, the defendant obtained approximately $24 million from at least 400 investors.
“Mr. Kovar allegedly stole victims’ hard-earned money by making false representations regarding his investment company, including misleading some victims to believe their investments were backed by the FDIC,” said Ryan Korner, Special Agent in Charge with the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation Office of Inspector General (FDIC OIG). “FDIC OIG is committed to identifying, and holding accountable, those who endanger our Nation’s financial system by victimizing others for their personal gain.”
Brent C. Kovar, 58, is charged with 12 counts of wire fraud, three counts of mail fraud, and three counts of money laundering. A jury trial has been scheduled to begin on April 8, 2025, before United States District Judge Jennifer A. Dorsey.
According to allegations contained in the indictment, from late 2017 to July 2021, Kovar owned Profit Connect, a Las Vegas, Nev., based company that purportedly used artificial intelligence software on a supercomputer to mine cryptocurrency and verify cryptocurrency transactions. He falsely represented to investors that Profit Connect paid a fixed rate of return of 15%-30% APR and provided a 100% money-back guarantee. In reality, Kovar used investor money to operate Profit Connect, buy gifts for employees, buy a house for himself, and repay investors as if those repayments came from mining cryptocurrency and verifying cryptocurrency transactions.
As part of the scheme, Kovar created a website, a YouTube video, and a PowerPoint presentation in which he made the misrepresentations to influence customers to buy investments. Furthermore, he leased office space for a sales office and a warehouse for a data center. As alleged, investments were sold through an entity known as Profit Connect Wealth Services. Kovar sent money via wire transfers to investors, he mailed checks through the U.S. Postal Service, and he engaged in monetary transactions greater than $10,000 that were derived from unlawful activity.
If convicted, Kovar faces a total maximum statutory penalty of 330 years in prison and a fine of not more than $4,500,000. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami, Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division, Special Agent in Charge Ryan Korner for the FDIC OIG, and Special Agent in Charge Carissa Messick for the IRS Criminal Investigation (IRS-CI) Phoenix Field Office made the announcement.
The FBI, FDIC OIG, and IRS-CI investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Daniel Schiess 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 Woman Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Seeking Nearly $100M in COVID-19 Employment Tax CreditsRead the Press Release
A Nevada woman pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiring to defraud the United States by making claims for refunds of false COVID-19 related employment tax credits.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Candies Goode-McCoy, of Las Vegas, conspired with others to file tax returns seeking fraudulent refunds based on the employee retention credit (ERC) and paid sick and family leave credit. From around June 2022 through September 2023, McCoy filed approximately 1,227 false tax returns for her businesses and others claiming these refundable credits.
In total, these claims sought refunds of over $98 million, of which the IRS paid approximately $33 million. McCoy personally received over $1.3 million in fraudulent refunds and was paid about $800,000 from those on whose behalf she filed fraudulent returns. McCoy knew that these returns were fraudulent. Neither she nor the others for whom she filed them were eligible to receive the refundable credits in the amounts claimed. McCoy used the proceeds for her personal benefit, including the purchase of luxury cars, gambling at casinos, vacations and other luxury goods.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact, Congress authorized the ERC for small businesses to reduce the employment tax owed to the IRS. Congress also authorized the IRS to give a credit against employment taxes to reimburse businesses for the wages paid to employees who were on sick or family leave and could not work because of COVID-19. This credit was equal to the wages the business paid the employees during the sick or family leave, subject to a maximum amount.
McCoy is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 23, 2026. She faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney John C. Gerardi of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
Mexican National with Prior Convictions Charged for Illegally Reentering the United StatesRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Mexican national residing in Las Vegas made his initial court appearance on Monday to face charges of illegally reentering the United States after twice being removed from the country.
Victor Jesus Apodaca-Gomez, a/k/a Carlos Alberto Cardenas, 31, is charged with one count of deported alien found in the United States. A preliminary hearing is scheduled for June 2, 2025, before United States Magistrate Judge Brenda N. Weksler.
According to allegations contained in the criminal complaint and statements made during court proceedings, Apodaca-Gomez is a citizen and national of Mexico who was previously deported and removed from the United States on April 9, 2020, and again on May 17, 2022, and re-entered the United States illegally on or before October 24, 2023.
In October 2023, officers with the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department arrested Apodaca-Gomez on drug-related charges. On March 25, 2024, Apodaca-Gomez was convicted in Clark County of mid-level possession of a controlled substance and conspiracy to violate the controlled substance act, and he was sentenced to imprisonment.
The U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), learned on October 25, 2023, of Apodaca-Gomez’s presence in the United States. after he was arrested by state law enforcement, in Clark County, NV. On January 30, 2025, the Nevada Department of Corrections remanded Apodaca-Gomez to ICE custody.
If convicted, Apodaca-Gomez faces the maximum statutory penalty of two years of imprisonment, a one-year term of supervised release, a $250,000 fine, and a $100 special assessment..
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami 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 Woman Pleads Guilty to Fraudulently Seeking Nearly $100M in COVID-19 Employment Tax CreditsRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS - A Nevada woman pleaded guilty yesterday to conspiring to defraud the United States by making claims for refunds of false COVID-19 related employment tax credits.
According to court documents and statements made in court, Candies Goode-McCoy, of Las Vegas, conspired with others to file tax returns seeking fraudulent refunds based on the employee retention credit (ERC) and paid sick and family leave credit. From around June 2022 through September 2023, McCoy filed approximately 1,227 false tax returns for her businesses and others claiming these refundable credits.
In total, these claims sought refunds of over $98 million, of which the IRS paid approximately $33 million. McCoy personally received over $1.3 million in fraudulent refunds and was paid about $800,000 from those on whose behalf she filed fraudulent returns. McCoy knew that these returns were fraudulent. Neither she nor the others for whom she filed them were eligible to receive the refundable credits in the amounts claimed. McCoy used the proceeds for her personal benefit, including the purchase of luxury cars, gambling at casinos, vacations and other luxury goods.
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and its economic impact, Congress authorized the ERC for small businesses to reduce the employment tax owed to the IRS. Congress also authorized the IRS to give a credit against employment taxes to reimburse businesses for the wages paid to employees who were on sick or family leave and could not work because of COVID-19. This credit was equal to the wages the business paid the employees during the sick or family leave, subject to a maximum amount.
McCoy is scheduled to be sentenced on Feb. 23, 2026. She faces a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison as well as a period of supervised release, restitution and monetary penalties. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting Deputy Assistant Attorney General Karen E. Kelly of the Justice Department’s Tax Division and Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami for the District of Nevada made the announcement.
IRS Criminal Investigation and the Treasury Inspector General for Tax Administration are investigating the case.
Trial Attorney John C. Gerardi of the Tax Division and Assistant U.S. Attorney Richard Anthony Lopez for the District of Nevada are prosecuting the case.
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Convicted Felon Admits to Defrauding COVID-19 Programs While on Supervised ReleaseRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – A Las Vegas woman pleaded guilty yesterday to carrying out a scheme to fraudulently obtain more than $137,000 from the Pandemic Unemployment Assistance Program (PUA), the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP), and the Economic Injury Disaster Loan Program (EIDL).
Kelly Ann Mogavero, 55, pleaded guilty to one count of wire fraud. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for May 21, 2025, before United States District Judge Cristina D. Silva.
“Kelly Mogavero, a convicted felon recently released from prison, fraudulently collected unemployment insurance (UI) benefits intended for American workers who lost their jobs due to the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Quentin Heiden, Special Agent-in-Charge, Western Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General. “Yesterday’s guilty plea highlights our strong collaboration with the United States Attorney’s Office for the District of Nevada and our law enforcement partners to ensure the integrity of the UI system and secure justice for the American taxpayer.”
According to court documents and admissions made in court by Mogavero, from June 3, 2020, to June 23, 2001, she devised and carried out a scheme to defraud Nevada Department of Employment, Training, and Rehabilitation (DETR), the Arizona Department of Economic Security (DES), and the Small Business Administration (SBA) in an attempt to fraudulently obtain $137,600 in relief benefits from the PUA, PPP, and EIDL programs.
As part of the scheme, while she was under United States Probation’s supervision, Mogavero fraudulently filed for unemployment insurance in both Nevada and Arizona and submitted at least two fraudulent applications for EIDLs and one fraudulent application for a PPP loan. Mogavero submitted materially false and fraudulent information, including that she was the sole proprietor of several companies which did not in fact exist, for which she stated false revenue amounts, and—for one of the EIDL applications—a false number of employees. Mogavero also submitted falsified tax documents in support of each application. As a result of her scheme, Mogavero successfully obtained more than $44,000 in relief benefits to which she was not entitled.
In October 2016, Mogavero was convicted of conspiracy to distribute methamphetamine in the District of Nevada and she was sentenced to 46-months in custody followed by five years of supervision.
At sentencing, Mogavero faces a maximum statutory penalty of 20 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine the sentence of each defendant after considering the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami, Special Agent in Charge Spencer L. Evans for the FBI Las Vegas Division, and Special Agent-in-Charge Quentin Heiden, Western Region, U.S. Department of Labor, Office of Inspector General (DOL-OIG) made the announcement.
The FBI, DOL-OIG, U.S. Department of Homeland Security Office of Inspector General Office of Investigations - COVID Fraud Unit, Office of Inspector General U.S. Small Business Administration, and the Office of Inspector General Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System Consumer Financial Protection Bureau investigated the case. Assistant United States Attorney Kimberly Frayn is prosecuting the case.
On May 17, 2021, the Attorney General established the COVID-19 Fraud Enforcement Task Force to marshal the resources of the Department of Justice in partnership with agencies across government to enhance efforts to combat and prevent pandemic-related fraud. The Task Force bolsters efforts to investigate and prosecute the most culpable domestic and international criminal actors and assists agencies tasked with administering relief programs to prevent fraud by augmenting and incorporating existing coordination mechanisms, identifying resources and techniques to uncover fraudulent actors and their schemes, and sharing and harnessing information and insights gained from prior enforcement efforts. For more information on the department's response to the pandemic, please visit Justice.gov/Coronavirus and Justice.gov/Coronavirus/CombatingFraud.
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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Former Reno Police Officer Indicted for Civil Rights ViolationsRead the Press Release
RENO – A former Reno Police Department officer made his initial court appearance today for allegedly depriving two individuals of their civil rights under color of law by violating their right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure.
A federal grand jury returned an indictment charging Tyler Michael Baehr, 30, of Reno, with two counts of depravation of rights under color of law. Baehr appeared before United States Magistrate Judge Craig S. Denney who scheduled a jury trial to begin April 8, 2025, before United States District Judge Miranda M. Du.
According to allegations contained in the indictment and statements made in court, on December 31, 2023, Baehr willfully deprived an individual of the right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure by taking her cellular phone during a routine traffic stop and unlawfully seizing sexually explicit photos of her from her phone. On August 12, 2024, Baehr willfully deprived another individual of the right to be free from unreasonable search and seizure by taking her cellular phone during a routine traffic stop and unlawfully searching through her private photos and messages.
If convicted, Baehr faces the maximum statutory penalty of 2 years in prison. A federal district court judge will determine any sentence based on the U.S. Sentencing Guidelines and other statutory factors.
Acting United States Attorney Sue Fahami and Acting Special Agent in Charge Jeremy N. Schwartz for the FBI made the announcement.
This case was investigated by the FBI and Sparks Police Department. Assistant United States Attorney Andolyn Johnson 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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U.S. Attorney's Office Collects $6,485,417.91 in Civil and Criminal Actions in Fiscal Year 2024Read the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Acting U.S. Attorney Sue Fahami announced today that the District of Nevada collected $6,485,417.91 in criminal and civil actions in Fiscal Year 2024. Of this amount, $3,556,959.50 was collected in criminal actions and $2,928,458.41 was collected in civil actions.
Additionally, the District of Nevada worked with other U.S. Attorney’s Offices and components of the Department of Justice to collect an additional $228,340.11 in cases pursued jointly by these offices. Of this amount, $97,396.11 was collected in criminal actions and $130,944.00 was collected in civil actions.
In June 2024, the District of Nevada recovered $2.1 million as part of the settlement from El Aero Services, LLC concerning the Sheep Creek Fire in 2018. The Sheep Creek Fire ignited on August 18, 2018, after a helicopter crashed in the Sheep Creek Range, north of Battle Mountain, Nevada. Following an extensive investigation, the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) determined that El Aero Services, LLC was responsible for the fire, which required significant suppression efforts. The settlement covered the fire response, suppression and remediation costs incurred by the U.S. Department of the Interior’s BLM combatting the fire.
“Thanks to the diligent efforts of Assistant U.S. Attorneys and professional staff in the District of Nevada’s Financial Litigation Unit and the Asset Recovery Unit, we have ensured the court-ordered restitutions and fines are fully recovered for victims of crime and taxpayers,” said Acting U.S. Attorney Fahami. “Our office does not stop – and will not stop – working with our law enforcement partners to recover civil and criminal debts owed.”
The U.S. Attorneys’ Offices, along with the department’s litigating divisions, are responsible for enforcing and collecting civil and criminal debts owed to the U.S. and criminal debts owed to federal crime victims. The law requires defendants to pay restitution to victims of certain federal crimes who have suffered a physical injury or financial loss. While restitution is paid to the victim, criminal fines and felony assessments are paid to the department’s Crime Victims Fund, which distributes the funds collected to federal and state victim compensation and victim assistance programs.
Additionally, the District of Nevada working with partner agencies and divisions, collected $5,438,595 in asset forfeiture actions in FY 2024. Forfeited assets deposited into the Department of Justice Assets Forfeiture Fund are used to restore funds to crime victims and for a variety of law enforcement purposes.
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Sue Fahami Named Acting United States Attorney for the District of NevadaRead the Press Release
LAS VEGAS – Under the Vacancies Reform Act, First Assistant United States Attorney Sue Fahami is the Acting United States Attorney for the District of Nevada.
As the chief federal law enforcement officer for the District of Nevada, which covers all 17 counties in the Silver State, Ms. Fahami leads a team of over 100 prosecutors and staff professionals with offices located in Las Vegas and Reno.
Prior to joining the United States Attorney’s Office in the District of Nevada in 2001, Ms. Fahami served as the elected District Attorney in White Pine County, Nevada.
Ms. Fahami earned her LL.M. from the University of San Diego School of Law in 1996, J.D. from Whittier Law School in 1995, and B.A. from the University of Southern California in 1991.
The United States Attorney's Office for the District of Nevada is responsible for representing the federal government in virtually all of the litigation involving the United States in Nevada.
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